Seeking shelter from the rain 

Places I like to go to when it’s raining. 

These days, the weather has been very unpredictable. Mornings of blue skies and rolling white clouds no longer promises a day free of rain. The weather shifts quickly, and without warning I must now change my plans too. I know it can be less than ideal having to do that but when you’re already outside and far from home, the least you can do is make the most of this volatile weather and find a place where you can still have fun away from the rain. 

Here are some of my favourite places to hit up when the weather has gone awry. 

The cinema – Lately I’ve been finding great comfort in going to the cinema alone, watching movies with other strangers, as the rain pours torrentially outside. There is no need for performance on anyone’s behalf; no need for small talk or other forms of interactions (besides the occasional “excuse me, passing through, sorry” if the cinema is a little packed). We’re all content with simply enjoying the movie peacefully and quietly. 

Last week I was supposed to go to Glenelg for brunch but because it began to rain just as I was about to leave the house (and indeed, it continued to rain the whole day), I decided to watch Asteroid City at the city’s Palace Nova instead. Obviously, I was very sad about ditching my day at the beach but going to the cinema turned out to be a better plan. 

Top three movies I’m going to watch next:

• Past Lives.
• Theatre Camp.
• Tiger Stripes.

The library – Getting caught in the rain can be miserable but I like to turn that frown upside down by going to the library, specifically the State Library, and read by its tall glass windows as I watch the droplets rush by. Even if I don’t feel like reading, watching the rain pour from the library brings me peace, which makes up for the frantic running I probably did to get inside. 

Suddenly, the rain that drenched me and left me feeling miserable appears romantic. 

The bookstore – Cliché, but it gives off the same vibes and feelings as being in the library. The only downside to this is that I have to restrain myself from buying a book, knowing that I have heaps more waiting for me at home. 

My top three Adelaide bookstores to visit when it’s raining:

• Matilda Bookshop, Sterling. S
• Dillons Bookshop, Norwood. 
• Dymocks, CBD. 

Adelaide Central Market – This one is a 50/50. If the rain forces me to seek shelter at the Central Market during peak shopping hours, I will cry out of overstimulation. Otherwise – when the market is near desertion and calm – having a meal by one of the seats near the entrance could be a lovely experience. One of my favourite places to eat there is called Real Falafels. Imagine having warm falafels while it’s raining outside… ugh, heaven! 

Changing weathers shouldn’t stop you from going out and exploring the city. Just make sure you bring an umbrella with you.