Wednesday, September 10, 2008

(more)

Wednesday am - our first morning in Cape Town! We left the house by 10 am, to begin our scenic tour of the city & life in this new world. Dr. Guma, also known as "Tops," led us to Signal Point, to get a view of Table Mountain. Just a heads up - I took a million pictures of this one mountain, but it is so amazing (really), and I'm afraid the pictures don't capture half of that beauty, but it's an attempt. At this point we saw a group of African men conducting a spiritual ceremony on the mountain side, singing, and cooking some type of food that smelled like meat. It was like what you see on TV or in a movie..our first reminder that we were actually in South Africa. After this we went into the city of Cape Town for our introduction to Long Street, Strand Road, and Main Road. Ben made us pair up and go find out how to ask for a minibus at a certain location. Carrie-Ellen and I were first to volunteer. We walked up this flight of stairs and it was like stepping into a new world. We clearly stood up, being the only white individuals, and everyone was staring at us. Still, we both tried to ignore that , and kept walking a short way until we came to the minibus stations. Minibuses are the main method of transportation in the city. They cost about R7 (or less than $1). By the way the conversion rate is 1 rand equals 7.9% of the US dollar. So the buses are lined up in separate lines according to destination. We were told to find the bus to Mobray and ask the owner how much for a 1 way ticket to Rondebosch (where we live). He told us R7.50 and the other students in our group R6. Everything is very subjective and changes according to whatever the owner wants. There aren't set prices, except at the grocery stores, and you can barter for the price you would like. So after this experience, the group rejoined to see more of the city, and stop for a quick dessert or drink at this place called Charlie's. After visiting Jordan in Australia, I have seen many similarities, as far as food, electronics, roads, and housing situations. Just a few things: the coffee is espresso for the most part, with instant coffee if you are lucky.

1 comment:

Michelle said...

I love how you are telling us every detail! It helps me realize how things are there! I am glad that you guys are having so much fun. I can't wait to see pictures and I hope you get internet soon!