The lockdown and economic damage being left in its wake are hurting even the most iconic establishments in South Africa, including Ronnie’s Sex Shop!
Swellendam, South Africa (14 July 2020) – I can remember it like yesterday, being young and absolutely scandalised that my mom stopped at Ronnie’s Sex Shop while we were travelling to Oudshoorn. I kept thinking she was crazy to stop there, it was no place for children! But then she explained that it was a place to get food and rest. It wasn’t actually a sex shop.
I remember walking into the bar and seeing money from every corner of the world stuck to the walls and roof. Panties and bras of every size and variety pinned to every available space. It was a sight I could never forget and a place I make a point of visiting whenever I am near.
Ronnie’s Sex Shop is essentially a farm stall that has grown into something special. Many years ago, “Ronnie” set up shop and waited for the influx of visitors. But they never came.
His friends decided to prank him and repainted his sign to say “Ronnie’s Sex Shop”. All of a sudden, people were stopping to take a peek at the sex shop in the middle of nowhere on a daily basis. The story of sex sells, is pretty accurate for this tale.
Over the years, Ronnie’s has become a beloved space for every traveller and local farmer. It is a place we should all visit once in life.
Since the lockdown, Ronnie’s has taken a massive hit! Ronnie set up a crowdfund on BackaBuddy in the hopes that people who have loved his establishment, would help keep it open.
“It used to be a popular watering hole for motorcyclists, day-trippers, internationals and the odd thirsty local, you could meet people from all walks of life here.
It is an Icon on the Route 62 that has been running for the last 22 years and I do not want it to go under. This bar/restaurant has been part of South Africa for a very long time at it will be a shame to see it go under.
This will be to save an Icon on the Route 62 that all have fallen in love with.
Funds will be used to keep this amazing place from going under and losing it.” – Ronnie Price
If you would like to support this iconic South African establishment alive, you can donate via BackaBuddy here.
Have you ever stopped at Ronnie’s Sex Shop? Share your pics and memories in the comment section.