Ep 1. Settling Down in South Africa

In the first episode of House Hunters International's 91st season, titled "Settling Down in South Africa," viewers follow a couple as they search for a new home in Cape Town. The couple, originally from Scotland, have both fallen in love with South Africa's culture and landscapes and have made the decision to make it their permanent home.

The episode begins with an introduction to the couple, who explain their reasons for moving to Cape Town. They express their desire for a home that's in close proximity to the beach, as well as one that provides easy access to the city's many cafes, restaurants and cultural attractions.

The couple's budget is revealed to be around R 4 million (approximately $280,000 USD), leading their real estate agent to show them several options that fit their criteria. Throughout the episode, viewers are taken on a tour of various properties, from sleek and modern apartments to cozy, more traditional homes.

One of the major hurdles the couple faces is deciding between a property that's located in the city versus one that's further out, but closer to the beach. The couple is torn between the convenience of living in the city and being surrounded by its vibrant culture, versus the peacefulness and natural beauty of living by the sea. Each property they visit presents its own set of advantages and drawbacks, and viewers get to see the couple weigh these carefully before ultimately making a decision.

In addition to location, the couple also has to consider the style and layout of the homes they look at. For example, one home they visit features a large, open floor plan, while another has a more traditional, compartmentalized layout. Each option has its own pros and cons, and the couple has to decide which features are most important to them.

Throughout the episode, it's evident that the couple has a strong connection to South Africa and its people. They discuss their love for the country's rich history and complex cultural landscape, and how they want to immerse themselves in it through the purchase of their new home.

As they visit various properties, the couple provides candid commentary on what they like and dislike about each one, giving viewers a deeper look into their thought process. Ultimately, the couple has to make a decision that will impact the rest of their lives, and viewers are left on the edge of their seats as they eagerly await their final choice.

Overall, House Hunters International's "Settling Down in South Africa" is an exciting and heartwarming episode that showcases the beauty of Cape Town and the many property options available in the area. The episode highlights the importance of considering location, style, and other factors when selecting a new home, and captures the emotional journey of a couple as they make one of the biggest decisions of their lives.