RSA, the Republic of South Africa, is truly a fascinating place on earth. Well, to be precise, I can really only speak of Johannesburg and the area -- an intriguing town!
Just recently, I had the opportunity to spend a few days in Jo'burg. (I love my job, but sometimes I love it even more for this very reason!) I had never been to Africa before, and all I knew about this continent were distant memories from movies such as "Nowhere in Africa" or some other weird stereotypes. I had no idea what to expect.
I was very pleasantly surpised and totally captivated by what I saw and experienced.
People are incredibly friendly and easy to talk to. The democracy is very young and apartheid not too long ago. Yet, you can feel the energy and eagerness to bring this country forward for a better life. I know I'm biased because of my white color and very likely only saw the better side down there. But from talking to people, I was impressed with their attitudes towards life and how they handle diversity these days. In many ways much more modern than certain areas in Germany...
Unfortunately, there is also a dark side: 20,000 murders in Jo'burg alone since January this year. Every single house is fenced in. AIDS prevalence rate in RSA is about 20%.
But, despite that I found it a very charming place and was excited about what I learned. If you ever get the opportunity, definitely check out this country because it has a lot to offer.
What does the Southern Hemisphere girl have to do with it?
A friend of mine commenting on my travels and how much I am fascinated by all continents in the Southern Hemisphere: South America, Australia, and now South Africa. So, that would be me. :)
Where do you see yourself? A Northern Hemispherish person or rather a Southern Hemispherish one?
Interesting, isn't it? South-North thinking instead of the East-West divide. Just can't escape this thinking in categories... ;)
