The dark of dawn on October 8th, 2021, found us scrambling to leave Swellendam for an early appointment near the Strand. This wasn’t part of the original plan, a testament to the year’s unforeseen twists and turns. The pandemic had forced a pandemic pivot, trading emigration destinations for the open road…. whereto, we will find out, no idea. The car hummed quietly as we drove through the darkness, the dashboard lights casting a soft glow. Even in the dim light, the familiar Western Cape landscapes hinted at their daytime beauty – a promise hidden under the cloak of night.
Unexpected Dawn
Watching the day break over the Western Cape, brought a profound sense of peace during that two-hour drive. The first rays of sunlight kissed the mountain peaks, casting long shadows across the valleys. It was a scene of breathtaking beauty, a reminder that even amidst uncertainty, there’s magic to be found. When we reached Cape Town, we decided to take the scenic R44 route, it was still very early.
Lockdown Echoes
Our journey to Swellendam began with the COVID-19 lockdowns in April 2020. Like many others, the pandemic set us on an unforeseen path. Lockdowns, which I suppose were necessary, despite feeling it indirectly contributed to the circumstances where my mother and brother passed away, brought unforeseen consequences. We navigated a strange new world, balancing the good we were able to do against the losses in opportunities, income, work offers in New Zealand and non-refundable migration fees.
Pandemic Reflections
COVID-19 undoubtedly reshaped our lives. While waiting for the borders to open to board our flight to New Zealand, we travelled through South Africa and Namibia, sometimes volunteering as WorkAway Volunteers. Other times, connecting with past acquaintances and owners and managers of places where we have helped or visited in the past, offering a trade skill in exchange for accommodation and meals.
We visited new destinations and met fascinating people we would not have encountered otherwise. These experiences enriched us in ways we never anticipated. However, even the most exhilarating adventure eventually loses its lustre. Nobody expected that lockdowns would last this long. All cards were off the table as far as emigration is concerned. It’s time to move on, to “live and let live” as they say. As many reference letters as you can earn on WorkAway, you still need a solid income.
Lingering Scars
While lockdowns possibly saved lives, the damage to livelihoods has been significant. Businesses closed, jobs are lost, and the economic impact lingers. The challenge now is to rebuild and find new ways to thrive in this post-pandemic world.
Ultimately, this is not where we should have been or wanted to be, but we could have been in worse places. There is a lot to be thankful for, but every so often it is difficult to keep the faith. My saving grace in that first few months after lockdowns was Appen and Captain Words. Appen’s income structure sucks, but the work is interesting enough to keep you sane and focused, while Captain Words pays better, but a hell of a lot of research and checking goes into copywriting.
Taking the Digital Leap
Amidst these challenges, I took my first steps as a digital nomad and professional writer, copywriting for Captain Words. My first payment, a modest $28, was a small but important milestone. It was a start, a foundation to build upon. This journey into the world of digital nomadism is both exciting and daunting, but I have a lot to figure out.
The reality of a freelance writer’s income is that $28 doesn’t quite pay the bills. There’s a need to find better opportunities or create them. If you have a freelance project, head over to my website at dxine.co.za for rates and services. Don’t hesitate to reach out for a custom quote, I’m always eager to collaborate!
The Freelance Hustle
I’m open to suggestions! If you know of resources or strategies for landing remote positions with decent pay, please share them. The collective knowledge of the internet can be a goldmine, and I’m all ears. Well, unless you want to scam me into buying crypto mining software, or expect me to pay to work for you, i.e. networking, crypto and pyramid schemes. In that case, you’re all out of luck. Besides, I can refer you to a free miner if that’s your game. Computta is free of charge.
The site also lists some volunteer organisations I support, and sports some affiliate links that may help you with a discount, trial or provide you with access to the opportunity to earn affiliate income if you are good at marketing. Otherwise, earn a part-time income by reselling web hosting with 1-Grid, Site123, A2 Hosting or WordPress, while you can get stably connected with Afrihost. Please support them if that is the case, and let me know how it helped you.
Finding Silver Linings
As we continue on this path, we still struggle to find balance. The journey has been filled with challenges, but also with unexpected beauty and opportunities for growth. The early morning drive through the Western Cape is a metaphor for our journey: a mix of darkness and light, uncertainty and hope.
There’s a sense of cautious optimism as we look ahead. The road may be uncertain, but it’s also filled with potential. Each sunrise brings new opportunities, and each challenge is a chance to learn and grow. We navigate this new world with a sense of purpose and a determination to succeed, but it won’t be easy. Then, is anything worthwhile ever easy. I’m not sure, but I’m sure we’ll find out.
Clarence Whale Coast Route (R44)
A spectacular view, where you can often watch dolphins play, or see whales migrate at certain times of the year. Mountains tower on the one side, while a cliff drops to the ocean on the other side, with frequent stops along the road and quite a few mobile food and coffee trailers along the road.
There are also plenty of swimming stops in natural pools, hiking trails, tidal pools, stretched beaches and camping sites along the route. You will also pass the penguin colony at Stony Point. Don’t forget to stop and say hi, or to enjoy breakfast and coffee in one of the many restaurants in the area.
Final Thoughts
Have you faced an unexpected detour in your life? Share your story in the comments below. Embrace the beauty of the landscapes you encounter, even if they aren’t where you planned to be. And if you need a Freelance Creative, drop me a note.
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