Been back home for over a week now and settling back into life. One thing I immediately noticed when we returned is just how green it is around here. Not that things aren’t green in Cape Town, but you don’t really have the forests or trees everywhere. Perhaps it’s the different types of trees, city …
The end is in sight and we’re enjoying our last full day in the city that has been our home for the past 3 months. Lists are my specialty so I’ll share a bit about things we loved in no particular order: – The seafood – Table Mountain to wake up to – Sunsets and …
Great image that I pulled from http://idread.co.uk/ . What are your thoughts about Africa? Click to see the full size.
I’ve talked about it before, but on March 30th we had some serious wind in Cape Town. It hit 70km/h gusts. The wind was so strong it was blowing water from the tops of the white peaks in open water. We traveled to Hout Bay this day and sand was being blown across the road. …
I speak of course in a relative manner, but we’ve found it quite affordable to live here. 1. Parking Parking in the city is pretty much nothing. You can park in a paid lot for about a dollar an hour no matter what kind of event is going on. No more $20 Cincinnati event parking. …
This is not a friendly city for those wishing to cross the streets. ‘Walk’ signals should be translated as ‘Better not unless you’re sure there aren’t any cars coming, even if you can’t see them at the moment.’ We’ve had our fair share of close calls so consider yourself warned when visiting Cape Town.
I’ve drawn a comparison between African cities/nations and beers. This has nothing to do with skin color mind you. This has everything to do with the development, grittiness and level of chaos. You see, Cape Town is Africa Light. Probably a Bud Light or maybe even something lighter. Kenya I would say is a straight …
“If we don’t offer ourselves to the unknown, our senses dull. Our world becomes small and we lose our sense of wonder. Our eyes don’t lift to the horizon; our ears don’t hear the sounds around us. The edge is off our experience, and we pass our days in a routine that is both comfortable …
The Chinese have been building Kenya a nice new highway. I’ve been told that people are having to relearn how to drive in a place where such high speeds are possible. Given the current driving habits of most Kenyans I fear that highways are more of a curse than a blessing.
In case you’re considering moving to Nairobi, Kenya here are some things I find I’m missing most. It’s not a long list. Shannon is at the top of this list. In no particular order: Fast Internet (think back to dial-up days) Driving Good hamburgers Ordering a beer/coke and expecting that it’s cold Drinking water from …
I came across a blog post from last year from the Elephant Watch Camp. It’s a sad story, but highlights a reality that still exists in Kenya. Not sure how/when/if this is going to stop. I spoke with a local my first week here that didn’t seem to think poaching is an issue. Seems like …
Would it be bad if I said that I miss the Opuwo-style Africa? I really can’t complain. I have a pretty nice place (pictures will come soon), there is a pool outside, I have hot water, electricity is fairly consistent, work is right next door, wifi is at home and at work and there is …
I thought I’d take some time and convey my feelings about coming back to the U.S. Tell some things I like and things I don’t. Just generally how I feel. So, without further ado, first topic is clothes as I happen to have some on today. I can’t believe how soft my clothes are after …
So you go on vacation and really like that tshirt, hat, whatever with the name of the place you’re visiting on it. You want to show everyone where you’ve been and what you’ve seen. It can also be a good conversation starter. What really kills me though is when the person doesn’t wait to get …
Read more “You Know You’re a Tourist When…Part 5: Souvenirs”
For the past 4 months I’ve been teaching a friend of mine, Segube, within the ministry how to use computers. It’s been a test on both parts, but I can honestly say he’s on the right track…a long track…but the right track. My patience has been stretched to it’s limits. I have enjoyed it though …
Gotta pee? Just go man…just go. In Opuwo it’s fine to just stop on the side of the road and go for it….in the middle of town. This may not be legal but there certainly isn’t any enforcement. Fun little fact.
Buy a distinct khaki purse to put your money in. They are to be used only when on vacation in strange and exotic, though potentially dangerous, locales around the globe. Instructions: Put all of your most valuable possessions in this magic bag and your worries will disappear. Features: the bag makes you and your giant …
Read more “You Know You’re A Tourist When…Part 4: Secret Money Pack”
I put some of my items on sale this week and I can honestly say that the people around the office are talking to me at much greater length than ever before. People are literally fighting over what I’m selling. I’m not selling anything great: iron, sleeping bag, mattress, etc….must be my unbelievable, unbeatable prices. …