The view from my hotel was…

AMAZING!

Surrounded by beautiful beaches!

These huge lots are filled with shabby homes made of tin, plastic, cardboard, or plywood. Most don’t have electricity or running water.

These “towns” pop up over night in empty lots, filling with people who move to the cities looking for work.

I’ve already written an entire post on the excitement and nightlife at the Waterfront. Well Camps Bay is another area of Cape Town with a lively restaurant and bar scene at night.

And the view is amazing from the beaches at Camps Bay!

My tour guide advised us not to venture into some places at night, including Long Street in Cape Town, where he said drugs and night clubs are on every corner. In truth, it’s a lot like New York City–be smart, be aware, be safe.

Vast open land

The mountain meets the crystal blue sea

Coal power plants are a common sight all over the countryside. It’s also common to see deep holes in the ground where coal has been dredged up. Add to that diamonds and other resources that are being mined–very visibly–from everywhere.

Hunting of the animals–many of which are shrinking in number–is also common. Rhinos, lions, zebra, and more are fighting for their lives from poachers and rich hunters.

The architecture ranges from Gothic…

With classic stained glass

Cape Dutch architecture

Bo-Kaap was whitewashed rental properties for low-wage laborers during apartheid. When apartheid ended the inhabitants painted the homes in bright hues to celebrate.

Even before the country erupted into celebration and mourning after Nelson Mandela’s death, his presence was EVERYWHERE. I don’t believe that will change anytime soon.