Bucket List: Train Trip to the Beach

It’s hard to imagine that living in Cape Town, my children – and husband – had, before this month, never taken a local train to the beach (or anywhere, for that matter). Then again, when you look at the (in)efficiency of the public transport system, you can understand. We opted to go after Christmas which worked well because (a) there would be fewer commuters, (b) the weather was cooler so the beaches would not be crowded, and (c) it fitted in well with Sam’s request to Santa for a real 10-seater train (which he obviously didn’t get).

I am familiar with the strains and struggles of Metrofail, but this is not my personal, daily experience. I have heard of people taking in excess of three hours to get to work on a train where each carriage is filled to capacity, and the risk injury accompanies the inconvenience of already arriving late. Sadly, our experience gave us a taste of this reality too. Even though it was a light service, with far fewer commuters, we still had to wait (on both trips) for a train delayed more than 30 minutes. Thankfully, we didn’t have anywhere else to be.

Watching for the train while Zac gets the tickets

Waiting for the train

Anyway, apparently the only people aware of these inconveniences were Andel and me, because as soon as the kids stepped onto the platform, and despite the long wait, they were pleased as punch to be on that train. They stared out the windows in wonder as we passed all the stations, and they identified which friend or family member lived next by. And by the time we got to the coast where they could see the sea, they were animatedly hopping up and down with excitement, again reminding me of how much joy the simple things can bring.

Windows that can open are apparently a big thing

Being a big girl

Braving up for the day ahead

We got off at Fish Hoek beach, and even though it was a little windy and cool, got some fish and chips, and picnicked for lunch before the inevitability of our children heading for the water. They had a ball – Bayley didn’t even both to get out of her clothes before diving in – and sat contently, chatting to the other passengers on the trip back. (I’d be lying if I didn’t mention here that I was so relieved to have come by train, and not have to have bags of sand in the car.) And the best part of it all: a good nap when we got home – for all of us!

Sun, sand and sea

My beach bums

Ice cream treats, because we can

Entertaining themselves waiting for the train

Chatting to the "pilot of the train"