A UK study by estate agency Yopa suggests those people living in the countryside were happier, healthier, less stressed or concerned about crime and pollution.
These residents also rated country schooling and raising children in the country as better than in cities. So alluring is the country lifestyle that many South Africans are now looking at the countryside as an alternative to emigration.
Those seeking the quintessential country lifestyle are spoiled for choice in the Cape, says Ian Badenhorst, managing director Seeff Country and Karoo.
He says the benefits of country living include:
◆Less driving: you can walk to most amenities and children can generally walk to school.
◆Good schools: most country towns offer good schools at least at primary level, with high schooling either in the town or easily accessible.
◆Home-grown cooking: there is more access to fresh produce.