Day 1--NYC to Capetown

Capetown, South Africa

After many delays, we are all finally on the way to Africa! I have been very impressed with South African Airways so far. When we were seated, we were provided with with the standard pillow and blanket, but shortly after take-off, we were also provided with a little packet containing a mini-toothbrush/toothpaste, a pair of socks, and a sleep mask. The meal we were served was delicious and came with real silverware-and even a 'sterilized' toothpick! The staff are very friendly as well.

When we arrived in Africa, I was really happy to feel the warmth! Africa is gorgeous! We all loaded up on the bus and headed over to where we're staying. We're in a hostel. It's probably one of the grosser life experiences I've had. There's even a sign in the bathroom that says to conserve water, shower with a friend...this is going to be rough.

After we dropped out stuff off, we drove around Capetown to see the sights. We were going to ride the cable car up to Table Mountain, but it was closed due to the wind.

We then went to the Victoria and Alfred Waterfront for dinner. It was very European and very classy. I had hake and calamari for dinner at Quay Four. It was delicious and pretty inexpensive--only $20! One African rand is equivalent to approximately $.13.

Probably the thing that was imprinted most on my mind today was getting to see the townships. The townships consisted of houses literally thrown together with cardboard and tin. They had electricity by connecting wires themselves to a main electricity pole. It looks really hazardous. It's hard to believe that people actually live and grow up in places like that.

When we were in Table Mountain National Park, Burger (our tour guide) told us about two trees. One, the pine tree, is not native and has been taking over the land (biological pollution). Another, the spider gum, causes problems because is requires fire for its seeds to germinate. Thus, the plant burns easily and is the cause of many fires.