A young man, Gxiya, living in Cape Town, took to TikTok to share crucial things people should prepare for if they’re planning to move to the award-winning city in South Africa.
Gxiya highlighted some of the challenges of living in Cape Town, particularly regarding transportation in this scenic yet sometimes congested city. He pointed out that on weekdays, traffic in Cape Town tends to move at a slow pace, which can be a significant adjustment for newcomers.
In his post, Gxiya specifically warned about the limited routes into the city center, noting that trips over 20km can take significantly longer during peak hours, especially for those relying on public transport. He cited examples of routes from areas like Khayelitsha, Kraaifontein, and Strand, emphasising how these lengthy commutes could impact daily life.
Additionally, Gxiya expressed his opinion on Cape Town’s train system which many residents depend on daily, stating that it is barely functional. He seemed to suggest that those moving to the city should be prepared for these transportation realities.
Gxiya’s tips about living in Cape Town sparked a divided response among South Africans on social media. While some users agreed with his observations about heavy traffic based on their own experiences, sharing similar frustrations about commuting in the city, others disagreed with his views on certain modes of transportation in the Mother City.
The debate highlighted differing perspectives on life in Cape Town, with some defending the city’s live-ability and efficiency despite its challenges, and others backing Gxiya’s warnings about traffic and transport limitations.
Social media users weighed in:
One user said, “This is unfortunately true. Once, I had a meeting at 9am at the Waterfront. I left Stellenbosch at 5.30am and got there at 8.45am.”
Another one said: “The barely functional train system I strongly disagree with. The only line that’s barely functioning is the central line. I’ve been taking the northern and southern line almost every day for 10 years when I’m not taking the car.”
“Cape Town traffic has gotten worse than Sandton traffic,” said another.
Also see: How to enjoy Cape Town’s tourist attractions as a local
