Cape Town has a habit of winning people over, but for LA-born skateboarder Jason Vanporppal, the city seems to have worked its magic faster than expected.
Vanporppal arrived in Cape Town on Monday last week, completing an ambitious skateboarding journey from Uganda to Cape Town. After spending just over a week in the city, he shared a video with followers, wondering aloud what it would take to make the move permanent.
In a video shared with his followers during a recent visit, Vanporppal couldn't hide his enthusiasm for the Mothercity, jokingly asking what it would take to become a local.
“I'm being dead-ass serious. What do I have to do to live here?” he said. “Who do I gotta talk to? How do I go about it?”
The skateboarder, who has spent time exploring Cape Town and connecting with local creatives and skaters, admitted he didn't expect to enjoy the city quite as much as he has.
“I didn't think I'd like it this much,” he told followers. “I'm loving it. There's so many opportunities. There's so much to do here right now.”
Vanporppal went on to joke that he could happily split his life between Los Angeles and Cape Town, commuting between the two cities if given the chance.
Beyond the scenery and activities, it was the city's atmosphere that appeared to leave the biggest impression.
“I love the people. The people are super kind. It's amazing out here. It's different,” he said.
His comments struck a chord with many Capetonians online, who were quick to welcome him and offer suggestions on everything from neighbourhoods to local experiences he should add to his itinerary before heading home.
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