So Interesting! I grew-up visiting my family in SA frequently as a child, but only experienced Cape Town as an adult. While you do see glaring inequality in the Cape, it is still not representative of the great linguistic, social and economic divides across South Africa (but a fascinating and lively microcosm). Seeing other big cities and provinces also demonstrates drastically different responses to apartheid, colonialism and new governance (particularly Joburg and the Free State)
I loved your comment about the hyper-organised ‘Safari’ and your interaction with the restaurant manager - service culture is a big thing SA wide (even in ‘fast food’ institutions), and it is something I always had to adjust to when I returned (living full-time in a place that doesn’t really have table service and organised activities are rare). Outside of the Kruger there are many more resorts and game parks which are primarily congregated with locals and are sitting at a price which doesn’t consider the potential of exchange rates providing significantly higher incomes (but it’s fascinating to hear your experience staying in one), I don’t think I’ve ever met a non-South African at the places I stayed at as a child.
So good to hear your were able to visit and learn more about South Africa. I think I am of the opinion that it is one of the most beautiful places in the world!
this is amazing cece. i loved this. keep writing — you're an absolute joy to read
I like the piece! when you publish the book, consider doing a audiobook version too :) i'll listen to it 😁
So Interesting! I grew-up visiting my family in SA frequently as a child, but only experienced Cape Town as an adult. While you do see glaring inequality in the Cape, it is still not representative of the great linguistic, social and economic divides across South Africa (but a fascinating and lively microcosm). Seeing other big cities and provinces also demonstrates drastically different responses to apartheid, colonialism and new governance (particularly Joburg and the Free State)
I loved your comment about the hyper-organised ‘Safari’ and your interaction with the restaurant manager - service culture is a big thing SA wide (even in ‘fast food’ institutions), and it is something I always had to adjust to when I returned (living full-time in a place that doesn’t really have table service and organised activities are rare). Outside of the Kruger there are many more resorts and game parks which are primarily congregated with locals and are sitting at a price which doesn’t consider the potential of exchange rates providing significantly higher incomes (but it’s fascinating to hear your experience staying in one), I don’t think I’ve ever met a non-South African at the places I stayed at as a child.
So good to hear your were able to visit and learn more about South Africa. I think I am of the opinion that it is one of the most beautiful places in the world!