Walking down Church Street, surrounded by cafes and restaurants, it can be tempting to tap your bank card left, right and centre. Unfortunately, as many of us know, as a student there is a limit to our funds. But fret not because Die Matie is here to tell you that being bougie on a budget in a town like Stellenbosch, is challenging, but not impossible.
A good day always starts with a good brekkie, so head over to Man’oushe on Andringa Street for their R25 breakfast that is anything but skimpy. Expect a choice of bacon or pork sausage, toast, eggs and tomato on the side.
After you’ve had your morning fix, you’ll most likely want a coffee, so take a short walk down Andringa Street to Xpresso, also known as the ‘R14 shop’ where everything is, (yes, you’ve guessed it) R14. Alternatively, if you want to splurge a bit, head over to 4Tea, located on Plein Street where they offer any coffee for R20.
After a good cup of joe you’ll want a fun activity to do before calling it a day. On your walk from either Xpresso or 4Tea make a stop at the Stellenbosch Municipal Library located at 17 Andringa Street to get a library card and take out a book. To make a library card you’ll need: your ID, proof of residence/student residence and to fill out a form at their front desk. After you’ve received your library card, choose a book that strikes your fancy and make your way to the Stellenbosch Botanical Gardens. Entrance is free for students, so remember your student card to walk around the gardens or sit under a tree with your book, free of charge.
To end things off, a sweet treat always hits the spot and De Vrije Burger at 13 Drostdy Street knows this all too well as their soft-serve ice-cream is only R12.
Then you’re ready to end the ‘bougieness’ and go back to being a normal student living solely off of Neelsie food; and Die Matie hopes that this article reminds you that even though the bank is empty, your life doesn’t have to be.
By Jani Roux
