Don't Stop Living - Jonny Blair - a lifestyle of travel

Thirsty Thursdays – The Three Monkeys Bar in Durban, South Africa.

Today’s Thirsty Thursdays comes from South Africa. I backpacked down to Durban from Johannesburg in 2011 and stayed in the Happy Hippo Hostel. I met a cool Scottish dude in there called Macc. I was travelling with Grace, a lovely English lady from County Durham and we ended up in Durban (Durham to Durban!). After a spot of sightseeing and some cheap local grub, Macc and I decided it was “pub time” while Grace went looking for some cheap food in the markets and shops.

Rain in Durban meant we were thirsty. It was beer time for Macc and I in South Africa!

Macc and I were quick to spot the Three Monkeys Bar and Restaurant on one of the main streets in Durban. It was early afternoon, it was raining outside and…well a Scottish and a Northern Irish traveller together meant BEER! We popped inside.

Thirsty Thursdays – the excellent wee local three monkeys bar in Durban where I enjoyed an afternoon beer in the rain.

I am fond of the South African Castle Milk Stout and it was generally my drink of choice while in South Africa. I didn’t find drinking in South Africa to be overly expensive in fact.

Thirsty Thursdays in Durban – my Castle Milk Stout.

I loved the atmosphere in the Three Monkeys. Macc and I as the only two “white guys” in there were instantly recognisable and a few came over and chatted away to us.

Yes thats me in the Three Monkeys, rough beard and all back in 2011…

This was the only pub I visited in Durban in the end, though we did have a fair few drinks in the hostel. Apologies for a short Thirsty Thursday today – I have a lot more stuff written and unfortunately due to APPLE COMPUTERS BEING THE WORST EVER then I am unable to update anymore – my computer comes on for 5 minutes then turns itself off with this type of screen.

After a great week of backpacking in China, I was hoping to get some blogging done until APPLE had other ideas. Avoid them at all costs and happy drinking in Durban!

Original article: Thirsty Thursdays: Three Monkeys Bar in Durban, South Africa

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Don't Stop Living - Jonny Blair - a lifestyle of travel

5 Things to see and do in Durban, South Africa. Check out the Maritime Museum.

My recent Africa trip had me reminiscing big time and the reality hit me that I haven’t written enough about my first trip to Africa in 2011. So much so that my visits to both Pretoria and Durban have passed the blog by completely and I’m behind with my travel tales. Before time gets the better of me again, here’s some things I did when I was in Durban, not exactly “the best of” but my 5 things to see and do in Durban. I didn’t do the bungy jump by the way – the Durban bungy stretched my budget on that occasion!

1. BAT Centre

A funky art centre by the riverfront in Durban, this place is unusual. Walking around is free. You can see artists and musicians in small shops and get talking to the locals.

Art and funky shops in the BAT Centre in Durban. Worth a peek to get out of the usual touristy stuff.

2. The Durban Natural Science Museum

The Durban Natural Science museum is completely free! It is housed inside a building that looks like the City Hall in Belfast in my home country of Northern Ireland. Loved the fact it was a free museum!!

The Durban Natural Science Museum is housed in this cool building which reminded me of Belfast City Hall.

3. Ushaka Beach

Durban is famous for its coastline and there is no shortage of activities on offer. Surfing and swimming on Ushaka beach is fun.

Relaxing on the pier by Ushaka Beach in Durban. South Africa.

There are also a load of seafood restaurants nearby and a cool shopping mall. I also bumped into a guy who makes spectacular sandcastles. Plus you can head to the Marine World and see some indoor animals – more for the kids this one – Marine World.

A sandcastle down on Ushaka Beach in Durban.

4. Local Pubs and Shebeens

Touring the city with my Scottish mate Macc and in the pouring rain we decided a beer was in order. Cue the excellent Three Monkeys Bar and we hopped in out of the rain for a few beers. There’s also Shebeens to check out in Durban. I wrote briefly about it on Thirsty Thursdays.

Macc outside the Three Monkeys bar in Durban.

5. Football – World Cup Stadium Moses Mabhida and Bungy

Durban hosted a load of World Cup matches in 2010 and the massive Moses Mabhida stadium is worth a look. I didn’t have the budget for the epic bungy jump, but if you feel the need go for it!! Durban Bungy!

Moses Mabhida Stadium – would you bungy off it?

…and actually it’s a top 6 things to see and do in Durban as I meant to include the Maritime Museum…

6. The Maritime Museum

Quirky museum by the harbour where you can get onto an old boat and check out Durban’s marine history!!

Steering a boat at the Durban Maritime Museum.

Durban is a pretty nice city to be honest, and a lot safer than Johannesberg (no offence Joberg!) so I would recommend it. Keep your eyes peeled for deals to South Africa and get your fix of places like Durban and Soweto. Safe travels one and all!

Original article: Backpacking in South Africa: Top 6 Things to see and do in Durban

©2015 Don't Stop Living. All Rights Reserved.

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Don't Stop Living - Jonny Blair - a lifestyle of travel

In my ongoing world borders series, I give you the best and easiest ways to cross borders all over the world, all from my personal travel experiences. The border crossing from Botswana to South Africa is a fairly straight forward one, so here’s an overview of my journey.

At my guest house in Gaborone before leaving Botswana.

You might have read how I went from South Africa to Botswana using this route to get into the country, where I headed to the capital city of Gaborone to catch up with some old friends. After that I decided to head straight back into Johannesberg where I was due to meet a backpacking friend, Grace in order to get a night train or bus down to Durban.

Partying in Gaborone with my mates.

Booking Your Bus Ticket from Botswana to South Africa

These days you can book your bus ticket online, on the phone or at your hostel/tourist information centre. As well as at the actual bus depot. I had booked a return for my trip, and I booked it at the bus depot in Pretoria. I went into Botswana on the Pretoria to Gaborone route on an Intercape Bus and I used Intercape obviously to leave Botswana as well. Bus prices vary depending on time of year, how busy it is and the route. The cheapest saver option is currently around 270 Rand, it was cheaper when I was there over 3 years ago.

Booking your Intercape Bus can be done online.

You can print the ticket and just turn up on the day. They might even let you away with just having taken a photo of your booking on a screen as it goes by a reference number.

Leaving Gaborone, Botswana

The bus station in Gaborone is very central, it’s at the Shell Garage on Queen’s Road. This is very close to the Mall and the Brackendene Lodge where I stayed, but it is far away from the Mokolodi Backpackers which isn’t in downtown Gaborone. Get to the bus station about 20 minutes before the bus leaves.

My early morning Intercape Bus from the Shell Garage in Gaborone, Botswana.

I was on an early morning bus (8am) and we left on time. I was the only backpacker on the bus, and obviously the only white person. It’s less than an hour from Gaborone to Tlkoweng, the border point of departure from Botswana.

Leaving Botswana at Tlokweng.

My route that morning was Gaborone – Tlokweng – (exit Botswana) – Kopfontein – (Arrive in South Africa) – Groot Marico (short stop) – Johannesburg.

(the entire journey took around 6 hours, the border crossing element took about 30 minutes maximum)

Leaving Botswana at Tlokweng

The bus pulls over at the border, and you get out and walk. You’re supposed to take your big backpack with you as they sometimes check them. You could get away with leaving it on the bus – but it’s up to you if you trust that or not. You go inside the room and you get your exit stamp after filling in a very short and easy departure form. There is no departure tax, there wasn’t a queue and things were very simple. I travel on an Irish and British passport and both are hassle free here.

The Botswana departure point at Tlokweng.

Arrival into South Africa at Kopfontein

You walk across the border. You have the option to change your Botswanese Pula into South African Rand here. Arrival in South Africa you have a small form to fill in and you get your passport stamped. I travelled on an Irish and British passport and both are fine to use here with no charge and no actual visa – just an easy stamp.

My entry stamp for South Africa at Kopfontein.

After that the bus will be waiting for you and you get back on. We had a quick stop off in Groot Marico on the way back to Johannesberg but that was it. This is a really easy world border to cross believe me!

You’re now in South Africa at Kopfontein.

From Kopfontein, we carried onto Groot Marico then Johannesberg’s notorious Park Station where I met Grace before we headed on down to go backpacking in Durban on the south coast!

Me Crossing from Botswana to South Africa:

Backpacking in Gaborone, Botswana:

Original article: World Borders: How to Get From Botswana to South Africa (Tlokweng to Kopfontein)

©2015 Don't Stop Living. All Rights Reserved.

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With a beautifully warm climate, stunning beaches, strong sense of culture, and low cost of living, it is no surprise that the Republic of South Africa is a popular choice for UK and US expats looking for adventure. South Africa also offers plenty of job opportunities for those who fancy a career change. In fact, the country was included in the Top 10 Most Job Searched Countries (Since Jan 2013).

10 important things expats need to know about healthcare in South Africa

While the country has plenty to offer in terms of lifestyle, business and culture, there is a striking divide between the rich and the poor in South Africa and this is fully reflected in the construction of its healthcare system. With this in mind, here are 10 important things expats need to know about healthcare in South Africa.

1. Public healthcare

One of the first things to mention about healthcare in South Africa is that, just like other African nations, there is a huge difference between the standards of public and private healthcare. Many public facilities are dealing with overcrowding, a lack of staff, a shortage of resources, and low levels of hygiene. About 80 percent of the population relies upon the public system as poverty is high and people simply cannot afford to pay for private healthcare. Most expats in South Africa choose to use private facilities instead, as these offer better standards of care.

2. Private healthcare

In comparison to the public system, the private healthcare sector offers some of the best medical facilities available, even rivaling the standards of healthcare in some European cities. Its plastic surgery and dental treatments are particularly well regarded, and people travel from around the world for these services.

There are more than 200 private hospitals in South Africa, and most towns and cities will have a local medical facility that private patients can visit. Private medical schemes, regulated by the Medical Schemes Act, are also widely available, and are usually jointly paid into by employers and employees. Expats may of course also choose to take out their own personal health insurance before relocating, to ensure they are covered from the moment they arrive.

3. Free healthcare for all

In response to the rapidly diminishing health of South Africa’s poorest communities, the government introduced its ‘free healthcare for all’ policy in 2006. The idea is that all South Africans can access basic healthcare for free, across all of the country’s public medical facilities. This has resulted in more people seeking regular medical help, a greater use of prescription medication, and a population that is gradually becoming healthier.

Visiting the Apartheid Museum, Johannesburg, South Africa

4. National Health Insurance (NHI)

South Africa’s National Health Insurance (NHI) system aims to generate funds that will enable all South Africans to access high-quality and affordable healthcare services based on their needs, at local facilities, using an NHI card. The first phase was implemented in 2012 and it will be rolled out over a 14-year period, using various pre-payment sources for funding.

5. Costs

While essential treatment on the public system is currently free, prices can be high for expats receiving private healthcare. Patients can pay for each treatment on an as-needed basis and make a co-payment for things like visits to a GP (General Practitioner) or family doctor, but expats may decide to take out private health insurance to help cover medical costs.

6. Standard of care

Improvements in medical facilities in South Africa’s major towns and cities mean that, in general, the population is getting healthier and living longer. However, in poorer rural areas of the country, healthcare facilities are not as efficient: hospitals are often overcrowded, the standard of treatment is lower, and there are fewer resources available.

Relaxing on the pier by Ushaka Beach in Durban. South Africa.

7. Health risks

There are certain health risks in South Africa, but these are more widespread in rural parts of the country. While tap water is generally clean in built-up areas and cities, it may be unsuitable for drinking in less well developed areas. There may be a risk of malaria in the northeast parts of the country too, so anti-malarial medicine could be considered if staying in these regions.

There is also a high rate of HIV/AIDS in South Africa, although measures are being introduced to tackle this issue. Under the government’s antiretroviral treatment (ART) program and prevention of mother-to-child transmission (PMTCT) initiative, more than 12 million people were tested for HIV in 2015, and nearly 170,000 babies were tested at six weeks old. According to the Department of Health (DoH), the HIV infection rate has dropped from 8 percent in 2008 to 1.5 percent in 2015.

Enjoying the cycle tour in Soweto in South Africa.

8. Health insurance and visas

Expats are not required to have health insurance in place to apply for a general work visa, long-term temporary residence visa or permanent residency permit. However, they will usually need to provide a medical report to prove they are in good health (this can often include submitting a radiological report). If they have recently travelled through a country where there is a risk of yellow fever, they may also need to provide a yellow fever vaccination certificate with their application.

9. Pharmacies

There are several main pharmacies in South Africa, including Dis-Chem, Clicks and MediRite. These can be found in most towns and cities. One quirk to take note of about South African pharmacies is that drugs are dispensed in a metal cage, which is then opened when taken to the counter. Also, due to the country’s pricing policies, it is common for pharmacists to hand out low-cost drugs over more expensive branded options, as this can be more profitable for the pharmacist.

10. Emergencies

In the case of a serious medical emergency, dial 10177, unless you are calling from a mobile, in which case the number is 112. There are also two private ambulance services available: Netcare 911 (dial 082 911) and Mediclinic’s ER24 (dial 084 124).

In summary

Expats in South Africa have the choice between public and private healthcare, although there is usually a big difference in the quality. While the private sector offers some of the best medical facilities in Africa, the public sector is by contrast overcrowded and under-resourced. Visitors to South Africa do not need to have health insurance in place in order to apply for a work visa or residency permit, but many arrange for private insurance to ensure that they have access to better treatment and care for the duration of their stay.

Disclaimer: The information included in this article is provided for information purposes only and is not intended to constitute professional advice or replace consultation with a qualified medical practitioner. All information contained herein is subject to change.

About to head across into Botswana – this is me at Kopfontein border checkpoint in South Africa

Original article: 10 important things expats need to know about healthcare in South Africa

©2018 Don't Stop Living. All Rights Reserved.

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I have had four ventures into Africa so far in life, each time smuggling at least a brace of countries into my backpack, my first ever African country, was actually South Africa…Cape Town South Africa holds the distinction of being the southern-most urban center in Africa, as well as the second largest city on the continent.  Featuring just about the most astounding natural backdrop, together with an ethnic heritage unsurpassed in its beauty, a visitor can expect to discover endless sights and sounds.

How Did Cape Town become the Best African Travel Destination? Find Out!

There is so much for a visitor to see and do, whether you travel alone, with a friend or family. Glimpse where the Atlantic meets the Indian Ocean, spend a day on one of the many Cape Town golf courses that offer the stunning spectacle of Table Mountain or relax on the unspoiled white beaches carved out curves by the surrounding giant granite boulders. Read on and discover more about how Cape Town earns the title of the best African Travel Destination!

How Did Cape Town become the Best African Travel Destination? Find Out!

Cape Town offers a unique close-up peek of the most remarkable and largest animals on earth, whales. Travel to Cape Point if you want to check out these impressive mammals in their natural habit. Humpbacks and even Killer whales can thrill onlookers lucky enough to be nearby. With some luck, you will catch a glimpse of one of these stunning creatures surfacing, a vacation memory you will always remember.

No matter your age, Ratanga Junction is the destination within Cape Town guarantees to accommodate everyone. With vast shopping malls, rides for the kids and food that will make even the most discerning mouth water, the festive atmosphere is exhilarating. Not only is this park a favorite amongst vacationers but it is also a much-loved location of the nearby residents. Boasting a dynamic atmosphere, Ratanga Junction adds to Cape Town’s desirability as a vacation destination.

How Did Cape Town become the Best African Travel Destination? Find Out!

Perhaps the ultimate vestige a visitor will come across while visiting Cape Town is the stunning Table Mountain. Guests will experience an incredible and unique journey through a variety of diverse ecosystems. Enjoy a ride on one of the cable cars, decked out with enormous windows and floors that rotate, allowing visitors a striking view as you ascend the mountain.

Once at the top, enjoy a meal at the Table Mountain Café. If you are feeling somewhat more adventurous, try tackling the 2-hour hike to the summit! No matter how you reach the top, once there you will experience conceivably one of the most breathtaking panoramas on the African continent.

How Did Cape Town become the Best African Travel Destination? Find Out!

Always an endless source of wonder is the immediacy of the African wildlife and ecosystem. You are unlikely to overcome the shock and awe of spotting a zebra on the slopes of a mountain, catch sight of a wildebeest grazing or to come across a troop of baboons causing mischief.

Finally, the Mother City, as Cape Town is known, generates a casual urban ambiance that speaks to all its guests. Cool bars, premier restaurants, and talented designers showcasing their gifts in trendy stores are all surrounding by this city’s distinctive dazzling natural charm.

How Did Cape Town become the Best African Travel Destination? Find Out!

Unquestionably, Cape Town is the most diverse and cultured city in Africa, making it the choicest destination for singles, couples, and families. With an extensive range of activities and experiences waiting for you, every visit will awe and excite beyond compare.

Original article: How Did Cape Town become the Best African Travel Destination? Find Out!

©2018 Don't Stop Living. All Rights Reserved.

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The hike up Table Mountain in Cape Town

Officially this was my fifth time being stamped in to South Africa. Though in essence, three of those were on my first trip here in 2011. However, it was my first time here in Cape Town and I allowed myself four nights in the city. I stayed in three different places on those nights, choosing the textbook backpacker haunt of Long Street for my final farewell. Before that though, I had two super nights here in Green Point.

Backpacking in South Africa: My Stay At Altona Lodge in Green Point, Cape Town

I stayed in a homely and cosy family run guesthouse called Altona Lodge. Altona Lodge is located in the Green Point area of Cape Town. I had two nights here and I recommend it, especially for families, couples or online workers who want a break from noisy streets for a quiet and cosy few nights. I certainly chilled out in the comfort of this room, away from crazy busy days backpacking Cape Town and around.

Backpacking in South Africa: My Stay At Altona Lodge in Green Point, Cape Town

Although I was busy touring rather than spending time in my room, here are some great reasons why you should choose the Altona Lodge in Green Point, Cape Town.

1.Safe and Secure

My room had a safe. I was on the first floor in room 8. Altona Lodge is on a safe and secure street and enclosed in a courtyard.

Backpacking in South Africa: My Stay At Altona Lodge in Green Point, Cape Town

2.Family Atmosphere

Altona Lodge is run by a family and feels like a family atmosphere. No posh tiled hotel floor entrance. Rather a cosy and warm lobby come lounge with carepeted floor and chill out armchairs. The manager Peter has set up a cosy and well-run family business here.

Backpacking in South Africa: My Stay At Altona Lodge in Green Point, Cape Town

Backpacking in South Africa: My Stay At Altona Lodge in Green Point, Cape Town

3.Working WiFi

Finally I was able to get online here. I had struggled badly in Lesotho (we had a power cut for a full day), Botswana (our farm had no WiFi) and Zambia.

Finally able to blog again

I was a busy guy so I didn’t get a lot of work done anyway but at least my social media updates on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter were faster to upload and more frequent than in the previous places.

Backpacking in South Africa: My Stay At Altona Lodge in Green Point, Cape Town

4.Walking Distance from Waterfront

Although Altona Lodge is located on a quiet, narrow street up a hill, it is well located for walkers. Green Point football stadium is a mere five minute walk. Cafes, bars and restaurants along the strip are a ten minute walk.

Admiring Cape Town

And even the delightful waterfront is a simple twenty minute walk. We spent four days/ nights in a row at the waterfront area. I liked the vibe there and the bars, cafes and restaurants.

5.Nicely Decorated Rooms

The rooms have the feel of an old school English Guesthouse. It had me reminiscing about my many nights spent in such joints in England, like The Edward in Gloucester, the Lea Hurst in Bournemouth or The Chaise in Sunderland.

My room

My room

My room

My room

Here are some more photos from my stay at Altona Lodge, including the kitchen, dining area and halls…

Backpacking in South Africa: My Stay At Altona Lodge in Green Point, Cape Town

Backpacking in South Africa: My Stay At Altona Lodge in Green Point, Cape Town

Backpacking in South Africa: My Stay At Altona Lodge in Green Point, Cape Town

Backpacking in South Africa: My Stay At Altona Lodge in Green Point, Cape Town

Backpacking in South Africa: My Stay At Altona Lodge in Green Point, Cape Town

Backpacking in South Africa: My Stay At Altona Lodge in Green Point, Cape Town

Backpacking in South Africa: My Stay At Altona Lodge in Green Point, Cape Town

Here are the details for booking a room at the Altona Lodge in Green Point, Cape Town:

Altona Lodge Website
Altona Lodge Facebook
Altona Lodge Agoda

Here is a video from my stay at Altona Lodge in Green Point, Cape Town:

Original article: Backpacking in South Africa: My Stay At Altona Lodge in Green Point, Cape Town

©2021 Don't Stop Living. All Rights Reserved.

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“So give me hope Joanna, give me hope Joanna” – Eddy Grant.

Backpacking in South Africa: The Southern-Western Tip of Africa, The Cape of Good Hope

As a perpetual tourist, I love ticking off a textbook “tip”, “point” or “peak” on my wacaday journeys. Memories of such achievements in days of yore came reeling back, and they continue to do that on life’s sentimental worldic curveball. I remembered vividly back to that Taiwan day of freedom and realisation with Natalia and Neil back in October 2009. That day, the hat-trick of us backpacked our way to the Beacon of South East Asia, the final tip of Taiwan after our tour of Eluanbi Lighthouse. It was a moment of reality for me on my journey. I knew I was a perpetual tourist that day. I knew I wanted to see the world. I wasn’t going to stop, whether I had been the only person at the South East tip of Asia for a second or not.

A hot day in Eluanbi, Taiwan heading to the south east beacon of Asia

Eluanbi – the lighthouse family – beacon of South Asia, TAIWAN.

The comparisons from that day to this trip whackpacking to the Cape of Good Hope in South Africa in 2020 were uncanny. For these reasons:

– Both trips were on hot days
– Both trips we went to a Lighthouse first
– Both trips our trip had three people – 2 guys (Neil, Russell) and a girl (Natalia, Malina)
– All three people had different nationalities (England, Estonia, Northern Ireland) (Australia, Poland, Northern Ireland)
– Both were to a tip, point
– Both were inspiring moments to cherish. Without doubt, forever.

“I hope you’ll find your freedom for eternity” – Robbie Williams.

A hot day in Eluanbi, Taiwan relaxing at the south east beacon of Asia

Getting to the Cape of Good Hope

You can backpack loyal to it if you want but we booked a day tour which encompassed other sights along the way. My friend Russell booked it and they picked us up from the Mandela Place Hotel (where I stayed one night before moving to Altona Lodge). It was a mini-bus tour for 10 people. The other sights on the tour included Bantry Bay, a seal cruise, a lunch stop (at the lighthouse itself) and later a visit to Simon’s Town and the famous penguin colony, where in February 2020 we were guaranteed to find penguins. I will write about the penguins separately – my first time to see penguins since Antarctica.

View from our bus on route to the Cape of Good Hope

Sightseeing on the way to the Cape of Good Hope

We didn’t just drive there and back. That would have been a tad boring but would have allowed us more time there, at Cape Point and the Cape of Good Hope. However the few stops we made on the way were for viewpoints at Bantry Bay round from Llandudno and inland at Hout Bay.

Sightseeing on the way to the Cape of Good Hope

Sightseeing on the way to the Cape of Good Hope

We were also told about a nudist beach along the way. What a shame we didn’t have time to visit it as that is just my thing to do and write about! I previously went nude at the English Garden in Munich, on a nudist beach called Lubiewo in Poland and I did naked yoga with Veronika in London. The bus drive continued to Hout Bay with one stop for a viewpoint.

Excellent viewpoint on the way to The Cape of Good Hope

Excellent viewpoint on the way to The Cape of Good Hope

At Hout Bay there was the option of a seal watching tour but I skipped it as I have seen seals many times before. I headed for ice cream and coffee here at Hout Bay on route to the Cape.

I had ice cream and coffee at Hout Bay

I had ice cream and coffee at Hout Bay

Then we drove into the Cape of Good Hope National Park and paid the $20 US (in Rand it’s 350) each to enter. We stopped in the car park near Cape Point where the lighthouse is.

Arrival at Cape Point

Arrival at Cape Point

Arrival at Cape Point

Baboons at the Cape of Good Hope and Cape Point

Beware! Baboons are a danger here. Do not bring any food. They will nab it immediately. The baboons are everywhere here including Cape Point itself and on the drive in.

Baboons

Baboon at the Cape of Good Hope

The Lighthouse at the Cape of Good Hope

From the car park, there are two trails to do. Both are short walks. However our driver and guide wasn’t very helpful, so of course got no tip. As he basically didn’t explain to us that we had plenty of time to see both the lighthouse and walk all the way to Cape Point and the Cape of Good Hope as well as stopping by Dias Beach. However, we headed to the Lighthouse first – it was 10 minutes up and decent views but not much else. There is a shop, cafe and toilet there also.

The Lighthouse at the Cape of Good Hope

The Lighthouse at the Cape of Good Hope

The Walk up to the Lighthouse at the Cape of Good Hope

The Walk up to the Lighthouse at the Cape of Good Hope

The shop at the Lighthouse at the Cape of Good Hope

The Walk to the Cape of Good Hope

Then we went back to the mini-bus before a fellow tourist from England wondered where the rest of our group were and why we had to wait. It turned out they were a bunch of Indians who had gone to eat! Then we finally discovered we could do the walk (which looked gorgeous) down to the Cape of Good Hope and the driver would pick those active ones (i.e. us) up there and drive the lazier ones down. If we had known that at the start, we would have done the lighthouse quickly (20 minutes) and then walked straight to the Cape of Good Hope. However the walk was worth it – was so scenic yet we had to skip the beauty of Dias Beach now due to time constraints.

The Walk to the Cape of Good Hope

The Walk to the Cape of Good Hope

The Walk to the Cape of Good Hope

The Walk to the Cape of Good Hope

The Walk to the Cape of Good Hope

The Walk to the Cape of Good Hope

The Walk to the Cape of Good Hope

The Walk to the Cape of Good Hope

The Walk to the Cape of Good Hope

The Walk to the Cape of Good Hope

The Walk to the Cape of Good Hope

The Walk to the Cape of Good Hope

The Walk to the Cape of Good Hope

The Walk to the Cape of Good Hope

The Walk to the Cape of Good Hope

The Walk to the Cape of Good Hope

The Cape of Good Hope

The first thing we actually saw at the Cape of Good Hope, on the dander down were ostriches! Then it was time to pose by the famous sign. It was a poignant moment and great to be here to enjoy it with Malina and Russell my travel buddies on this trip, and a few other trips.

Ostriches at The Cape of Good Hope

Ostriches at The Cape of Good Hope

Ostriches at The Cape of Good Hope

The sign itself was the moment of realisation for me. I reminded myself not just of Eluanbi in Taiwan (the beacon of south east Asia), but also of Point Danger (Queensland, Australia), Cape Horn (Chile/Tierra Del Fuego), Cape Byron (most easterly point of Australia), Birr Point (most easterly point of Northern Ireland) and Punta del Este harbour (the southernmost tip of Uruguay).

Backpacking in South Africa: The Southern-Western Tip of Africa, The Cape of Good Hope

Backpacking in South Africa: The Southern-Western Tip of Africa, The Cape of Good Hope

Backpacking in South Africa: The Southern-Western Tip of Africa, The Cape of Good Hope

Backpacking in South Africa: The Southern-Western Tip of Africa, The Cape of Good Hope

Backpacking in South Africa: The Southern-Western Tip of Africa, The Cape of Good Hope

We got our photos, admired the views and waiting for our mini-bus. The next stop would be at Simon’s Town to watch African penguins. Just for the memory, here are some other photos of tips I visited…

Southern tip of Uruguay at Punta Del Este (2010)

Sunrise at Point Danger, Australia (2010)

Cape Byron, most easterly point of the Australian mainland (2010)

East point of Ireland in Blissful Ballyhalbert (2017)

The amazing Cape Horn in behind me on my trip from Antarctica back to Chile and Argentina.

Here are some videos from my time backpacking at the Cape of Good Hope in South Africa:

Eddy Grant: Give me hope, Joanna:

Original article: Backpacking in South Africa: The Most South-Western Tip of Africa, The Cape of Good Hope

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Following my recent post reflecting on my safari in Tanzania – my night in the Serengeti, I aim to get more of my cool African back catalogue up and running. When I backpacked through Soweto, Durban, Joberg and Pretoria in 2011, I forgot to mention the important part of African adventures – wildlife! This post will concentrate on South Africa and on the zoos there.

Backpacking in Africa with the elephants!

South Africa abounds with wildlife and the country is home to many parks, zoos, and reserves hosting both indigenous animals and exotic foreign animals. Of course, the state-owned game reserves are the largest and host all manner of wildlife, with Kruger National Park being the largest followed by the Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park and the Isimangaliso Wetland Park.

Safari in South Africa.

There are, however, numerous private parks and state zoos that offer opportunities for day visitors to experience South African wildlife at close quarters, this could also be the “backpacking option” (and believe me – it’s not that much less authentic given the way these national parks are gradually becoming zoos anyway!!). These make for outings that are great for the whole family and especially educational for children. Check out my top 7 zoos/non safari experiences in South Africa.

Backpacking in Pretoria back in the day…

1. Pretoria Zoo
Regarding zoos, Pretoria Zoo is probably one of the most popular in the country with over 600,000 annual visitors and one of the finest in the world with over 3,000 animals. It has a wonderful six kilometres of walkways as well as a walk-in aviary and a superb reptile park. It also has the largest inland aquarium in the country. The zoo offers evening tours where you can experience underwater life. You can even spend the night in the zoo, under the care of a guide, bedding down in the tented camp. This offers a marvellous education for children.

2. Joberg Zoo
Running a close second is the Johannesburg Zoo established in 1904 in Saxonwold with over 2,000 animals and an incredibly user-friendly layout ideal for families wanting a Sunday outdoors. Focus is on educational entertainment, and they have touch, hear, feel, and smell programs throughout the year. The zoo also offers night safaris and holiday programs for children up to the age of 13 years.

3. Bloemfontein Zoo
In the Free State Province is the Bloemfontein Zoo, founded in 1906 and home to 65 mammal species including the Big Five of lion, leopard, buffalo, elephant, and rhino. Aside from its remarkable primate collection, the zoo is also famous for successfully breeding the liger, which is a cross between a lion and a tiger.

4. Mitchell Park Zoo, Durban
In Durban in KwaZulu-Natal Province is the Mitchell Park Zoo, a small zoo with mammals, reptiles, and birds. It is a popular place for parents with young children. Here are my other tips for backpacking in Durban.

Giant Tortoises at Mitchell Park

5. Johannesburg Lion Park
Another popular weekend, small-park experience is the Johannesburg Lion Park near Lanseria, which has attracted worldwide visitors with its opportunity to touch the lion cubs and its giraffe-feeding station. Founded in 1966, you can also come into very close contact with cheetahs and hyenas as well as antelope. You are free to self-drive through the park but there are also game drives and guides as well as night drives followed by a meal in the boma.

6. Hoedspruit Endangered Species Centre
There is also the Hoedspruit Endangered Species Centre, which focuses on the conservation of the endangered cheetahs, the fastest animal on earth. The centre ensures treatment of injured species, rehabilitation, and reintroduction into the wild, as well as breeding. The de Wilt Wild Dog Sanctuary in Magaliesberg was opened in 1971 and operates on similar lines.

Hoedspruit Endangered Species Centre

7. Drakenstein Lion Programme
In the Cape Province is also the Drakenstein Lion Programme, taking in volunteers to care for and hand-raise these captive born lions, as they are not able to be rehabilitated into the wild. Check out Gumtree South Africa (a local free classifieds site) for some safari equipment such as a digital camera, camouflage outerwear or even some zoo or park tickets!

Original article: Backpacking in South Africa: 7 Non Safari Animal Experiences

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South Africa Holiday Attractions

South Africa is one of the most popular destinations for visitors who want to combine a bush and beach holiday. The Rainbow Nation offers a wide variety of accommodation and attractions, here are the top 4 recommended by African Safari Home, a leading luxury travel expert in Southern Africa.

Safari in South Africa.

Cape Town

Cape Town is known as the Mother City and is often rated in the Top 10 most beautiful cities in the world. With a vast variety of attractions including pristine beaches, world-class wine estates and superb accommodation and cuisine, Cape Town is the most popular destination in South Africa.

South Africa

Garden Route

The Garden Route in South Africa is not only a spectacular stretch of coastline; it is also a superb location for whale watching. Each year the Southern Right Whales come to the area to give birth in the shallow waters off the coast, resulting in unparalleled whale watching opportunities. The area is also popular for shark cage diving with the Great White found in abundance.

Visiting the Apartheid Museum, Johannesburg, South Africa

Kruger Park

The Kruger Park is one of the best African safari destinations and home to the Big 5 animals. If you are not familiar with the Big 5, they are the Elephant, Rhino, Leopard, Lion and Buffalo. The Kruger Park offers a large variety of other animals like hyena, cheetah, zebra, giraffe and over 300 species of birds.

The Kruger Park has several accommodation types to choose from, from basic camping to some of the most opulent lodges in the world. You can experience the park with a self-drive safari or with a guide in an open top 4×4 vehicle, the recommended option.

Safari

Sun City

Sun City is a mega resort in the North of the country and an excellent option for families. This mega resort boasts it’s own man made beach, complete with 2m high waves, a water park and other fun beach activities. The resort also features two PGA rated golf courses built by the legendary Gary Player, several restaurants, bars, casinos and nightlife attractions.

South Africa is a very diverse country with many attractions for the whole family. The wide selection of properties can be overwhelming and it is recommended you view the South Africa luxury accommodation guide at African Safari Home or contact one of the consultants for advice on over 300 properties.

African Safari Home has over 20 years experience in planning luxury holidays to South & East Africa. The friendly consultants can provide an insiders guide to the best times to travel, specials and other bits of helpful information you would probably not have access to as an industry outsider.

Original article: South Africa Holiday Attractions

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“By a lonely prison wall, I heard a young girl calling” – The Dubliners.

Backpacking in South Africa: Touring The Lonely Prison On Robben Island

There has been something really weird and odd that has happened to me a few times on my journeys. Life has been really crazy how it all worked out for me – tying up loose ends, fool circles / full circles and finally arriving in Cape Town on officially my fifth visit to South Africa, dating back to January 2011, where I missed the World Cup by 7 months. Back in 2011, I did a tour of Soweto, seeing Nelson Mandela’s house, Desmond Tutu’s house, a Shebeen experience, the Apartheid Museum (in Johannesberg) as well as the famous bicycle tour of Soweto. Some photos first, if only for the memory.

My Shebeen visit in Soweto in 2011

My Shebeen visit in Soweto in 2011

My Shebeen visit in Soweto in 2011

Playing football in Soweto, South Africa

Me and the staff at the awesome Soweto Backpackers in South Africa.

Enjoying the bicycle tour in Soweto in South Africa.

Visiting the Apartheid Museum, Johannesburg, South Africa

Visiting Nelson Mandela’s former house – a must do in Soweto!

Touring Nelson Mandela’s House, Soweto back in 2011

Touring Nelson Mandela’s House, Soweto back in 2011

All those photos and memories were actually from 2011. Alas this visit, and the Robben Island visit fell upon February 2020. It’s just been a while to get round to write about it all.

Backpacking in South Africa: Touring The Lonely Prison On Robben Island

Also, I was always destined to visit Robben Island but I guessed that when I did I would travel with Russell and Malina together here. We were backpacking in southern Africa together on a trip where we visited Angola, Namibia, Zambia, Zimbabwe, Botswana, Lesotho and South Africa.

My arrival back into South Africa in 2020 was overland from Lesotho into Bloemfontein.

But the day we were meant to all travel together, our trip to Robben Island was cancelled and refunded. It was high winds and wicked seas so they cancelled it. Bummer! On that trip we seemed to spend ages in Cape Town but looking back it was only 5-6 days. We did a tour to the penguins at Simon’s Tour, the Cape of Good Hope, we milked the city’s sights and hiked to the top of Table Mountain. But Robben Island was proving elusive.

Hey Cape Town!

We had it all booked and that was for my penultimate day in South Africa then it was cancelled. I wanted to share photos of the cancelled day and most from Robben Island but sadly I lost those photos – it was my own fault as I lost them in Poland – not saving them onto my harddrive and losing them in the accident where I nearly died in a train smash in June 2020. Alas, I recovered enough photos and memories for this post.

My phone, wallet and more was lost in this freak accident a few months after Robben Island

Malina and Russell later admitted they didn’t really want to go to Robben Island and were going because I was so insistent on visiting it. If I want to do something, I do it. So as soon as they cancelled it, I stayed at the ferry terminal and asked them to please put me on the next available boat to Robben Island. I waited and waited. I got my refund for the cancellation and then begged to still make it, they found a slot for me.

Backpacking in South Africa: Touring The Lonely Prison On Robben Island

Booking My Ticket For Robben Island

Bear in mind that this happened in February 2020, so although COVID-19 had already started, the global lockdowns had not. Tourism was rife and these ferries to Robben Island were sold out. I was in the ferry terminal, but I believe online bookings might be possible now here. Finally, they put me on the ferry and guided tour the next morning at 11.00 a.m. Malina and Russell decided not to come. At the time, there was only one official Robben Island Ferry and Tour to book – you had to book that one. Here’s my ticket.

Backpacking in South Africa: Touring The Lonely Prison On Robben Island

The ticket was 550 Rand – around $33 US Dollars and under £30 UK pounds so not too bad as it is a 3-4 hour tour.

Timeline of the Robben Island tour

This is what happens on the tour.

10.30 a.m. – Arrive early at the Nelson Mandela Gateway – bag and ticket check.
11.00 a.m. – Boat departs from the Nelson Mandela Gateway to Robben Island.
11.30 a.m. – Boat arrives at Robben Island and we walk the first part past a shop, through the gates and our guide takes us for a walk then a bus tour.
12.15 p.m. – We arrive in a lonely shared cell. Then it’s Nelson Mandela’s cell.
12.45 p.m. – Shop and boarding the ferry for the trip back to mainland Africa.
13.15 p.m. – Arrived back in Cape Town.

Exactly what happened on my Robben Island tour

I did the 11.00 a.m. tour – please book them early or you won’t get on – it’s busy and sells out fast. I was lucky to do it. As of August 2022, tours run daily at 09.00, 11.00, 13.00 and 15.00. The ferries depart from the Nelson Mandela Gateway at the Victoria & Albert Waterfront. That’s a quirky zone alright – top notch area!

Dining out at Victoria and Albert Docks, Cape Town

Robben Island is actually north of Cape Town, surrounded by Rangatira Bay and Murray’s Bay.

Location of Robben Island from Cape Town

The tour takes 3.5 hours including the ferry trip to and from the Island, depending on the boat and the weather. It was a windy and stormy day and on the way, we saw whales – this was a bonus. Photos lost but I do have a photo of the boat and some videos at the bottom of the post.

The boat that took me from Cape Town to Robben Island

On arrival on Robben Island, we disembarked at Murray’s Bay Harbour on the east coast where we walked to meet our guide and bus. On the way to the buses, we passed buildings and a high wall which was actually built by prisoners during the 1960s. The buildings were used for family and lawyer visits to prisoners, some minor privilege for the destruction of your life being sentenced here. It’s all completely grim and I feel disgusted and free.

Arrival on Robben Island

Arrival on Robben Island

Arrival on Robben Island

Arrival on Robben Island

On the bus tour of Robben Island

We are met by our Tour Guide when we board the bus and suddenly, I feel very ill. Yes very very ill. I thought it was the feeling of this island that had made me ill. Later I learnt from Malina that it was the food from the night before – we experienced food poisoning. I was really ill here on Robben Island. I remember trying to sleep on the bus and crouch into the corner. We passed a church and a mosque and I photographed both below. But I was very ill. The reason the photos on this post are low quality or smaller is because I managed to salvage them as these are photos by luck that I had emailed or sent online to friends and family, so thanks Facebook and What’s App!

The mosque on Robben Island

The church on Robben Island

Our bus tour guide was excellent and then we are introduced to another gentleman and I didn’t know what was to come. First though. I went to the toilet when we stopped and I vomitted for about 5 minutes in the toilet. I washed it all up then bought a milk, a water and a Sprite. Around the same time, I found a quick moment to grab a photo looking back over at Cape Town. I was ill.

My view of Cape Town from Robben Island but I was very ill

My view of Cape Town from Robben Island but I was very ill

The prison tour then took us to a stop outside the prison itself. Here are some of those photos.

Backpacking in South Africa – My Tour of Robben Island

Backpacking in South Africa – My Tour of Robben Island

Backpacking in South Africa – My Tour of Robben Island

The island has a crazy 500-year-old history, though obviously the Mandela imprisonment was from 1964 – 1982. He spent EIGHTEEN years locked up here and that scares the hell out of me. Mandela served a total of 27 years in prison, split between Robben Island, Pollsmoor Prison and Victor Verster Prison. Once inside the actual scary prison – we went into a huge shared cell. This was horrific.

Backpacking in South Africa – My Tour of Robben Island

Our guide in the photo below gave a breathtaking speech about the prison and this room we were in.

Backpacking in South Africa – My Tour of Robben Island

Then he revealed that he was a long-term prisoner here. This was his room, his home for 18 years. He showed us the window he stared out at every day, passing his life away. Losing 18 years of his life behind bars.

Backpacking in South Africa – My Tour of Robben Island

Backpacking in South Africa – My Tour of Robben Island

I’m cut pretty deep by it all as we look at more parts of the prison.

Backpacking in South Africa – My Tour of Robben Island

Backpacking in South Africa – My Tour of Robben Island

Backpacking in South Africa – My Tour of Robben Island

Backpacking in South Africa – My Tour of Robben Island

Backpacking in South Africa – My Tour of Robben Island

Backpacking in South Africa – My Tour of Robben Island

Backpacking in South Africa – My Tour of Robben Island

The tour route also included the graveyard of people who died from leprosy, the army and navy bunkers and the “recreation area” where the prisoners could paint or play football etc. We are in the Maximum Security Prison where thousands of South Africa’s freedom fighters were incarcerated for years. The tour culminates with a viewing of Nelson Mandela’s cell. It’s B Section. It’s all hard to take in.

His lonely prison – Nelson Mandela’s cell

His lonely prison – Nelson Mandela’s cell

Freedom day for Mandela

After that, I go fast back onto the ferry and sleep the entire way back as the food poisoning has taken over. I was ill the rest of that day, and Malina was too. I’m glad that I did the tour despite how horrific it was. However, something weird stuck in my mind from that day. Later it would be significant and I think it will be a story for a book to come. In the meantime, I do recommend that tour of Robben Island and it kind of ended things for me in South Africa. I felt I’ve seen enough there now, and like many countries from my wacaday journey, I don’t need nor want to go back. I’ll keep my memories.

Backpacking in South Africa: Touring The Lonely Prison On Robben Island

It’s a scary place. It’s not for the faint hearted and it’s certainly sad that so many prisoners spent huge chunks of their lives here. Here are the details for organising a tour to Robben Island.

Here are some videos from my sad trip to Robben Island:

2011 Videos from Soweto:

Original article: Backpacking in South Africa: Touring The Lonely Prison On Robben Island

©2022 Don't Stop Living. All Rights Reserved.

The post Backpacking in South Africa: Touring The Lonely Prison On Robben Island appeared first on Don't Stop Living.