South Africa is absolutely stunning! There are various attractions ranging from historic and cultural tours to adventurous safari game rides. South Africa is a huge country similar to the United States where there are many different cities and towns to visit with each having something different to offer.
While in South Africa I stayed in Cape Town at the Commodore Hotel, located in the heart of the Victoria and Alfred Waterfront. This location had tons of stores, entertainment, restaurants and bars. From my hotel I had a beautiful view of Table Mountain, Signal Hill and Table Bay.
After visiting Cape Town, I visited Johannesburg and stayed at the Michelangelo Hotel, located in the heart of Sandton’s exclusive central business district. The hotel offered one of the best breakfast buffets I have ever had and the hotel rooms were decorated so pretty and dressed up with elegant window drapes and historic paintings.
Me at the Michelangelo Hotel.
Every day I experienced something new and exciting but the best two excursions were the Soweto Township and the safari game ride at Pilanesberg National Park. While in Soweto Township, I was able learn so much history about South Africa and was able to interact with local residents. This was truly a valuable experience, being able to view life through a different perspective and to learn how to be grateful for what you have.
Many local residents still live without running water in Soweto and it is typical to see three families living in a one room unit. However, they are still happy and humble despite of their living conditions that may seem dismal compared to Western cultures. This is a learning lesson for all, be grateful for what you have and cherish each moment regardless of your circumstances.
Local woman preparing goat for dinner and posing for the camera.
More goat heads before they are cooked.
Delicacy fried worms.
Traditional Celebration Dance
Sun City South Africa is home to Pilanesberg National Park. The park itself is breathtaking - Africa’s giant elephants roam the fields of this park. It's also home to the hippo, rhino, buffalo, and the King of the Bush, the lion. Riding through the safari and seeing the animals run free in the wild versus locked in a cage in a city zoo, is an incredible experience that all should view with their own eyes! South Africa is enriched with culture and history, from the cultural African dance shows to the amazing food and the historical museums and art galleries. There are so many things to do and see in South Africa and I definitely recommend you visiting this marvelous country!
Helpful Travel Tips When Visiting South Africa:
I recommend you take these tours:
· Cape Peninsula Tour
· Robben Island and Cape Town city Tour
· Adventurous safari game rides
· Historic Apartheid Museum tour in Johannesburg
· Soweto City Township Tour
· Lesedi Cultural Village Tour
More travel tips!
Check with your doctor regarding immunizations
Pack bug repellent
Wear comfortable walking shoes
Don’t drink the water from the facets at hotels or restaurants, drink bottled water and brush your teeth in bottled water
Exchange your money to local currency
Pack your camera, batteries, and chargers - you don’t want to miss out on great pictures
Last but not least, come with an open-mind and ready to embrace this remarkable country!