Nelson Mandela is still very “big” around here – maybe even larger than life!
There was a huge celebration of what would have been his 100th birthday here a couple of weeks ago. We have not met a single person of any race, income level or political leaning who does not believe fervently in the goodness, selflessness and leadership he brought to this country at a time when they needed it so much, as apartheid officially ended in 1994. We could all use a solid dose of those qualities now, not only here but through-out our world. Unfortunately, those who rule the mightiest nations today think not of what is good for humankind, but what is good for “my” kind; not of inclusivity but tribalism, and not of fellowship but division. To quote one of them out of Twitter context, “Sad!”
Okay, thought for the day over; now on to the fun stuff. Cape Town is a lovely place, great natural beauty with a rocky coastline and options for hiking near Table Mountain and Lion Head.
The protea is that national flower of South Africa.
Cape Town has a lively foodie scene….
Tertius Jordaan with Eye See Africa, a Cape Town-based travel agency that arranged our entire trip, was able to knock around with us for a while.
As usual, we came across some nice folks along the way. A singer in the park who sounded just like Billie Holiday…
A public service agent dedicated to helping obvious foreigners such as ourselves from being preyed upon by bad guys…. by showing us to our destination and warning about street crime.
A vendor who makes specialty mayo…..
A harbor seal who looks like how we feel after the bountiful eating we have done.
The Winelands are nearby. South Africa has a great many wineries producing a prodigious number of wines….. fun to visit and still more beautiful vistas.
Farm visits, too!
Still more incredible food, this fresh from the garden…
We are to spend about a month in South Africa; from Cape Town, we will make our way by car east along the coast, then hopscotch up to Kruger National Park and environs for more game viewing.
Emerald Isle to the Norse Lands 
You have me salivating here – those are my peeps and the land I’m honored to say I’m from! Thank you for sharing your adventures and memories. I feel rejuvenated and encouraged, albeit vicariously.
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