My first trip to South Africa

I am in South Africa for the first time. It’s been an interesting experience mostly for the differences in the reality versus what I anticipated. I’m here doing a number of things for the platform which I will be sharing over the coming days and weeks on my various platforms. I started off in Johannesburg and have now moved to Durban. I will also be visiting Cape Town during my time here before heading back to Nigeria.

Umlazi

I had a good time in Johannesburg and it is my base while in the country so I will be back and forth there. It’s a functional city, good vibes, good weather and really great food. It was strange to be in an African country with so many white folks which is something I’m not used to. Growing up in Nigeria, and going to west or east african nations means I have always been around majority black people in African countries from rich to poor. As such Africa has always meant black in my head. However I can say that depending on the neighbourhood you’re in over here, you could almost mistake it for a European city with a handful of black folks. I was told it is even more apparent in Cape Town but I haven’t been there yet. This changed when I came to Durban though.

Driving into a Durban township in the afternoon

I have come to stay in a township here, yes the ‘ghetto’ as my friend’s cousin put it as he took me round. I haven’t seen a single white face. Anywhere. I don’t know if this is good or bad to say, but this feels like the Africa I know in terms of atmosphere. The vibe is also different.

There’s more edge here and it’s definitely got a more vibrant energy to it. I tried some of the famous Durban Curry that I was advised to. I can honstely say it is some of the best curry I have ever had in my entire life. I had to order it twice in a row. It was that good. I mean it beat everything I ever had in London Brick Lane which is world reknowned for its curry.

Anyway I will keep you updated on things here. So far I am really liking South Africa. I have learned a lot in this short time and am sure will learn a lot more.