Herds of animals flocked below us as we flew over Africa from Senegal to South Africa. Actually, not really. In fact we saw very little from 30,000 feet. I know, I know. Everyone thinks that Africa is just roaming with wild animals, but to be truthful we haven’t seen a single lion yet and we’ve been here almost a week. (We have seen an ostrich and baboons though!)
So what have we done? Well there’s actually more to do in Johannesburg than you think. Our plan was to skip right off to Mozambique but we ended up keeping ourselves busy for a few extra days. First up was the Apartheid museum. Full of details, photos and fascinating stories, the Apartheid museum was a must on our list of things to do in Johannesburg. We felt exhausted after going through the museum, but also very moved and interesting in learning more about the post-apartheid South Africa. Fortunately our couch surfing hosts were more than patient with us asking question after question, so expect a more in-depth post on the subject soon.
Then it was off to the World of Beer, which according to the South African Tourism Board is their number 1 attraction. The museum was great, almost like being at Disney. Besides a history of beer around the world and an introduction to the beer making process, we also sampled some traditional African beer, the name of which I have no idea how to spell, and a traditional lager from a typical “bush” bar. The attraction itself was great, but perhaps it was ranked South Africa’s #1 attraction by the tipsy tour goers- at the end of the tour we were each given two free pint vouchers! Hurray!
Africa so far has been wonderful. We’re heading to Mozambique for a little while to get in some beach time and avoid the crowds. Might be a while between posts from now on, Internet isn’t as easy to come by here as it was in South America. Have no fear, foodie friday will continue as best we can!
Hey, I think I once found this blog via FB. I also went to GWU. Think it’s really awesome that you guys are doing all this traveling! As a South African who lives in the U.S., I am always curious how visitors get around, especially in Johannesburg. Whenever I have visited alone or with my fiance, we stay with family there and get rides with them and friends. So just curious to know how you’ve been getting around – people are always asking me and I am never sure what to advise. Hope you continue to enjoy my home town!
@ Jaclyn- Hi! Thanks for checking us out, hope you enjoy the blog. We actually rented a car for south africa at the advice of some locals. Although there are some bus options, we felt that we wouldn’t get around to the parks and out of the way areas without our own car. So far it’s been great, but we do feel a little disconnected from “locals”. Any suggestions/advice for our travels? We’re always open to “local” advice! 🙂 Cheers and Happy New Year!!
Just found this and today is Feb. 24. I’m leaving tomorrow to go to Houston for Leore’s birthday (28TH) and Steve’s (27th. Leore was actually born in Melbourne, Aus. on Feb.29th 18 years ago.
Love your blogs and look for them every day. All my love