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What to look for when finding your perfect ‘workation’ location
If you are planning to travel to a different destination for a couple of months to work remotely, with the idea to blend it with vacation, why not make it worthwhile by making it a real vacation?!
While tackling your day-to-day work tasks in this stimulating new environment, of course you will be thinking about the list of ideas on new adventures and activities to explore while on your workation. This makes it one of main reasons to pick a suburb in Cape Town that would satisfy your particular taste in activities, and one that is near the sites you would most like to visit when you take your time off in between work, or on your actual vacation days that you have available.
Here are the top tips on what to consider:
This one is CRUCIAL. Choose a location that suits your particular taste, style and preferences. One that offers a conducive work environment that inspires and motivates you and pushes your productivity. Consider factors such as proximity of amenities, accessibility to transportation, and the overall vibe and atmosphere of the area.
Cape Town is known for its incredible long summers, with beautiful warm days, which also attracts tourists from all around the world. This, creating the captivating and bustling vibe during peak season. However, Cape Town is also known for a very strong South-Easterly wind which can sweep you off your feet, quite literally! Something to consider when looking at the specific location, as some areas are not affected by the wind as badly as others. Winter months can be cold and wet and the city becomes very quiet, with everyone spending most of their days indoors. Another thought to ponder on when booking the ideal time period that you would like to spend here!
Consider the noise levels in the area. If you require a quiet environment for work, look for properties away from the city, busy streets, construction sites, or other potential sources of noise like school sports fields, etc. For some this is not a concern, and are happy to be working through the hustle and bustle of the city.
Look for a property that provides a dedicated work area or a comfortable workspace. Perhaps you only require a desk and comfortable chair, or alternatively your particular profession requires you to have a private, quiet space with a full setup, including screens, adequate lighting, etc.
Ensure that the property has a stable, reliable and high-speed internet connection. Check whether the property has Wi-Fi available and inquire about the speed and stability. This has a significant impact on productivity. The last thing you want is for a virtual meeting to go wrong or deadlines not being met because of poor connectivity.
This one is a ‘biggy’! You’ll want to consider the impact of load shedding, which is a common occurrence in South Africa. This is where the electricity supply is periodically disrupted. Look for properties with backup power solutions like generators or uninterruptible power supplies (UPS) to ensure uninterrupted work during power outages. Additionally, inquire about the property’s location within Cape Town, as some areas may experience more frequent or prolonged load shedding than others. Being prepared for power interruptions is key to a productive and comfortable remote work experience in the city.
Assess the size and layout of the property to ensure it meets your requirements. Do you have children? Are you sharing a space with friends or colleagues? Consider the number of rooms, availability of private spaces, garden or play areas, and the overall comfort and functionality of the living area.
Check the amenities available on the property, such as a well-equipped kitchen, laundry facilities, parking, gym, swimming pool, braai facilities, or any other features that suit your preference to create the ideal space for a comfortable stay.
There is a list of top schools in and around Cape Town with the most highly recommended ones listed under each suburb, including a number of international schools which accommodate travelling families. The other option of course is to do remote online schooling for children.
Ideally you’d want to opt for a property in a secure neighbourhood or building. Inquire about features like secure entrances, surveillance systems, the presence of security on the premises or within the neighbourhood.
Consider whether essential facilities such as grocery stores, pharmacies, restaurants, and other amenities are within close proximity. Either within walking distance or a quick drive away, to promise you the convenience of having everything you need nearby.
What is your budget and how do other properties compare in terms of price. Consider any additional fees like cleaning charges. Look at possible discounted offers when you extend your stay. Also remember that if you book within a touristy area, the likelihood of the cost of living would be considerably higher. Suburbs like Camps Bay, Clifton and Sea Point are all packed during high season so you’re guaranteed to be charged tourist/high season prices.
Read reviews from previous guests or tenants to get some insight into the quality and cleanliness of the property, as well as the reliability of the host and their overall property management. You can also ask the host for further references before making a final decision.
Check the minimum stay requirements and cancellation policies. If you prefer flexibility, choose a property that offers shorter stays or has a lenient cancellation policy. By considering these elements, you tailor your search for the most fitting ‘workation’ home or apartment to your needs, that provides both a comfortable and productive environment for your remote work.
