Thinking about moving to Plettenberg Bay? Below we highlight some of the pros and cons of living in Plettenberg Bay.
South Africa is a country of diverse landscapes, rich history, and vibrant cultures. One of its many gems is Plettenberg Bay, a small seaside town located along the famous Garden Route. Known for its stunning beaches, lush forests, and abundant wildlife, Plettenberg Bay, or “Plett” as it’s affectionately known, is a popular destination for both tourists and locals. But what is it like to actually live in this picturesque town? Let’s delve into the pros and cons of living in Plettenberg Bay.
Pros of Living in Plettenberg Bay, South Africa
One of the biggest advantages of living in Plettenberg Bay is undoubtedly its natural beauty. The town is surrounded by the Indian Ocean, the Tsitsikamma Mountains, and the Keurbooms River, offering breathtaking views and a plethora of outdoor activities. Whether you’re a fan of hiking, surfing, or bird-watching, Plett has something for everyone. The Robberg Nature Reserve, for instance, offers stunning hiking trails with panoramic ocean views and a chance to spot seals, dolphins, and even whales.
Another pro of living in Plettenberg Bay is the sense of community. With a population of just over 20,000 people, Plett has a small-town feel where everyone knows everyone. The locals are known for their friendliness and hospitality, making it easy to feel at home. There are also numerous community events throughout the year, such as the Plett ARTS Festival and the Plett Wine & Bubbly Festival, which bring people together and celebrate the local culture.
Plettenberg Bay also boasts a thriving volunteer scene. Organizations like the Tenikwa Wildlife Rehabilitation and Awareness Centre offer opportunities to work with animals, while the Plett Food & Soup Kitchen provides meals for those in need. Volunteering in Plett not only allows you to give back to the community, but also to learn new skills and meet like-minded individuals.
Lastly, Plettenberg Bay offers a relaxed lifestyle that’s hard to find in bigger cities. The pace of life is slow, allowing you to enjoy the simple pleasures like watching the sunset over the ocean or having a picnic in the forest. Plus, with a mild climate year-round, you can enjoy outdoor activities no matter the season.
Cons of Living in Plettenberg Bay, South Africa
While Plettenberg Bay has many advantages, it also has its share of drawbacks. One of the main cons is the cost of living. While it’s cheaper than living in major cities like Cape Town or Johannesburg, Plett is one of the more expensive towns along the Garden Route. This is especially true when it comes to housing, as the demand from holidaymakers and retirees drives up prices.
Another downside of living in Plettenberg Bay is the limited job opportunities. The town’s economy is largely based on tourism, which means that jobs are often seasonal and low-paying. While there are opportunities in sectors like hospitality, real estate, and conservation, they can be hard to come by, especially for those without specific qualifications or experience.
While Plett’s small size contributes to its charm, it can also be a disadvantage. The town has limited amenities and services, especially when compared to larger cities. For instance, there’s only one hospital in Plett, and while it offers a range of services, more complex medical procedures often require a trip to George or Cape Town. Similarly, while there are several schools in Plett, options for tertiary education are limited.
Lastly, while Plett’s natural beauty is a major drawcard, it also brings challenges. The town is located in a biodiversity hotspot, which means it’s vulnerable to environmental threats like wildfires and drought. In recent years, Plett has experienced several devastating fires, which have not only caused damage to properties but also disrupted daily life.
In conclusion, living in Plettenberg Bay, South Africa, comes with both pros and cons. While it offers natural beauty, a strong sense of community, and a relaxed lifestyle, it also presents challenges in terms of cost of living, job opportunities, limited amenities, and environmental threats. Ultimately, whether Plett is the right place for you will depend on your personal preferences and circumstances.
