Night At Knoxville

I love girls night, and I think it's not only healthy for my friendships with all the girls, but I also think it's healthy to break your routine every once in a while. Last week we had a girls night planned in the beautiful city where I live, Cape Town. A friend had organised it at a trendy spot called Knoxville. To tell you the truth I wasn't in the mood as I'd had a rather long day, but I forced myself to stick to the plans I'd had and at least go for one drink. I'd estimated being home by nine thirty. But we all know the 'just one drink' promise too well...

Knoxville has a free cocktails and sushi policy for an hour (8pm-9pm) and if you're thinking I let that go to waste you don't know me! I made sure to fit in at least three of my favourite fruity cocktails before the hour was up. Usually free means watered down alcohol, but I must say I would have paid to drink those bad boys. The vibe got going, the DJ started getting in the zone and before you know it, the place is packed to capacity. Usually I don't like places where I have to queue for the ladies or elbow people out of my way just to cross a two meter space. But the fullness set a great atmosphere which reminded me why I had needed that girls night. We got onto the dance floor and this is where I like to zone out and do my own thing and not worry who's watching or judging me. And it seemed everyone was in their own mind, as there wasn't that typical 'What is that girl wearing/doing' cloud that hovers in so many Cape Town clubs where you are defined by your high-heel brand.

Then, on the dance floor, the highlight of my night starts moving closer to my circle or friends. And here it comes, the line that will never be forgotten... "So what do you rate these?" - as he flexes his biceps in my face and waits for an honest response in all sincerity. I was floored with hysterics and gave him a three, hoping that my hint would be bigger than his arms. After laughing for ages with the girls, it made me realise that this place really does cater for all types. I'm a relatively simple girl with a complicated mind, but I could share the dance floor with a jock, a hard rocker, a preppy fashionista and a lost soul carrying a book around entitled 'From molecule to man' and wearing skinny jeans. I also met a guy who is trying to live for five years without any money. The list of interesting personalities never ends. We were all under the same roof, jamming to the same thing (although I'm sure our interpretations were different) and the mood was a winner.

It can be difficult to find a place to hang out, let go, dance, drink, talk, meet people, feel comfortable and enjoy all the elements. But I had a fabulous night at a exciting venue with excellent company.

After I crawled in my front door at 1am, I have no regrets about sticking to the plan despite my premature beliefs about the night. I look forward to for next months girl night out. Perhaps some better biceps await me