The Mother City

Cape town is known for their true melting pot of culture, it is far deeper than the cliche that we use in America, with the visions of old referring to NYC (at Ellis Island). Immediately upon arriving 3 distinct shades of people were evident to our eyes. All with the biggest non-forced smiles of greeting. The western Cape has opened its arms and its "Table... "to us.



South Africa boasts some different 12 national languages and a host of others, which actually use their tongues to "click" them out audibly. Many of them are combinations of Dutch, German, English and others are partial tribal dialects too.

White, Colored, and Black persons all make up this "Rainbow Nation" which seems to be losing their infancy stage of financial and political development. It would be very difficult to really declare this fine city as a developing nation on the immediate surface. It very much feels like a first class European/American small town.

Tanja remarked earlier, that it reminds her of her favorite city in the US. (Seattle.) They have show-cased modern roads and fancy buildings standing tall on the dark continent. This vision is far from the mental preconceived thoughts of dirt and uncivilized region.

We drove from the airport, (GPS in hand) on the opposite side of the road was rather scary me the passenger. Thanking our lucky stars, that we purchased the full insurance coverage, my better half cautiously eased through traffic just like most Capetoneans. (minus their speed.) Apparently, they [all] seem to be trying to out do each other in very small stretches between round abouts.

The small nice hotel sits just 3 blocks from the green point stadium and at the foot Lions Head portion of Tabletop Mountain. It is the small little nub to the right. Since arriving, we have eaten really outstanding prepared meals. The fine wines and local beers are absolutely the perfect pieces to finish out any meal. Let us say, that this high quality has a rather lower price tag. Today for instance Tanja par took in a very fresh seafood called Grilled King Kilpfish, which was finished in a lemon butter chive cream. Truly Delicious! I must add, that most of my planning of trips center around food as well as the venues.

The daytime activities so far, have included us getting familiar with the local establishments and the geographical area. The thousands of international visitors are all decked out in their respective country flags in the form of soccer jerseys and color splattered costumes. I am enjoying that men have no problem wearing " make up", in the name of soccer.

Today we took a break from the fun and did a day of reflection. I got a true historical lesson of how this country was given a new birth barley 15 yrs ago. We boarded a fast boat to the world heritage museum of Robben Island (Seal Island). 200 others, along with us spent 3 hours seeing where one of the most notable persons of peace [aka. the 3 M's] in the world made an impact; due of his perseverance.

Nelson Mandela, soon to be 92 yrs of age on July 18, 2010, spent 27 years in prison as a political prisoner. This tour was emotionally moving. Our guide, Yasid Muhammad, a colored man was well versed, he skillfully weaved every country into how the world was connected in the struggle of the people of S.A. Yasid served as a political prisoner for 12 yrs. His mastered ability to include over 18 nations represented on the bus, into the 1.5 hours of the outside perimeter. We viewed the worlds 3rd largest bird habitat. It is stunning!

The other two most powerful M's>>> men of peace<<<>

Hope you all enjoy the pics of Capetown.