Wow! My first impression of this place is wow! The country is so beautiful and so alive. I think that is what is most striking to me. Coming from the New York City area I am used to people rushing around. There is something very impersonal about the city. In Cape Town everyone appears to be happy to be alive and well. It may also be the amazing weather, but I could definitely get used to this place. One of the coolest parts is that it is so diverse. The city itself has urban parts, mountains and waterfronts and its people range from race, religion and country of origin. I have done some exploring in the city and by far the best part was the hiking we have done. It is incredible to look all around you and see out for miles, or rather kilometers! Today we hiked up Table Mountain which is the landmark of the city. It was really hazy but it was still such a fun time.
It really is incredible to think how far this country has come in merely two decades. When I think of the growth of the US in the last 20 years it seems like nothing in comparison. Within the city you never would have guessed the oppression that occurred not to long ago. I think that may be why people appear happy. I think they are proud of the progress the country has made. It will be interesting if we see the same in Johannesburg (or Jo-burg as they call it here) because everyone keeps telling us that Jo-burg is not as safe, but I am still really interested in seeing it because it is less touristy.
Academically probably my favorite part was visiting the township. We actually got to see a clinic and it was not glamorized at all. No matter how you read about the clinics and AIDS itself, it is quite another thing to see people at an AIDS clinic all waiting for treatment of tests. On our tour of the township many students and myself were amazed by the vibrancy of the place. I think a lot of people assumed that this impoverished area would be depressing. We also wondered if the tour guides selectively showed us the positives of the area and not necessarily the whole picture. I think whenever you are abroad it is hard to tell what is authentic and what is simply a tourist trap.
One last exciting Cape Town story: the other day we were at an African restaurant and I had crocodile, ostrich, springbok(the national animal) and antelope! It was pretty good but the bragging rights were even better. Well speaking of those animals, I have to get to bed because we leave Cape Town early and depart for our safari tomorrow!
Until Next Time,
Kate
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