Wednesday, March 30, 2016

Around Africa - Richard's Bay

The ship docked in an industrial zone. A shuttle bus would take any passenger or crew to the city center.

In my case, I went on the tour. Yes! The tour! It would be a personal interaction with Africa's Zulu Tribe.

An hour and a half bus ride away would take you to the Zulu Village. On our way, These are the views.



We arrived and was greeted by a member of the tribe. Him.


We went inside and saw these houses.


Our first stop was the spear making.


Then the shield making ..


To the bone throwing ..

 

Carving of pots and making of baskets ..



Making of accessories ..


And finally, Their ultimate showdown!



Then Their exit would lead you to the bone reader and the souvenir shop as well. It was well worth my half day though I was not able to get a single pic of myself with the tribes. And I would never forget to take a pic of me again. I need to have a souvenir right?


Thursday, March 17, 2016

Around Africa - Durban

When we arrived in Durban, I didn't immediately go out as I slept from duty. I got off and boarded a shuttle service at around 2 pm but waited for another 30 mins. before finally departing.

We did not actually stop at their city center but to an amusement park named Ushaka Marine World. I think this is the nearest attraction in Durban.

Well, let us explore the place!


It has diners and souvenir shops and rides. You can actually swim with the sharks here! For those adrenaline junkies this is for you! Haha




Anyway, after exploring the first few shops of the whole marine world, I settled inside Wimpy Burgers and tried one of their burgers. It was not really unforgettable but I finished it. Haha


Instead of going out after eating, I opted to stay and talked with one of my fellow crews. We ate ice cream in a freakin cold weather my dear.

That basically ended my Durban escapade. Nothing much to say as I wasn't really able to explore any of their historical sights. Maybe next time. :)

Sunday, March 13, 2016

Around Africa - Port Elizabeth

Port Elizabeth was named after the wife of the town's explorer. The shuttle bus from the terminal brought us to the Sun Boardwalk which is an entertainment site. It has al fresco restaurants facing a man-made lake.




A casino is also in place and some children's rides. I was not satisfied of what I saw because based from research, Port Elizabeth has some interesting sites on it.

So, when I boarded the shuttle service back, I asked the driver where he can drop me off for me to see Route 67, a famous artistic haven. And just outside the main gate to the terminal, I got off and started my walking tour!

First stop is the Campanile Tower!


Just as I crossed under the skyway, I noticed them.


So, up the staircase, you will eventually see the City Hall and Public Library.



Then up more is Route 67! 67 art works dedicated to Nelson Mandela! I'll tour you around!


 



Eventually, I ended up here with Nelson Mandela! Haha



And see this pyramid here with the message. So so sweet!



After that tour is eating time! I tried Africa's take of Burger King. Such huge servings for 58 rands. I was not able to finish it. Haha

Tuesday, March 1, 2016

Around Africa - Cape Town (Day 2)

The continuation of my exploration led me to the famous stadium! Well, it's where the 2004 FIFA World Cup was held! Remember Waka waka? Haha


Then, I had this mandatory pic in this huge frame. Ever wondered why Table Mountain?


If you try to see my background, it's a huge expanse of terrain. I actually never heard of Table Mountain before but I should say it's a breathtaking sight. Its flat top really resembles a table. Hence the name.

Photo courtesy of Pangs
Courtesy of pangs
And I tried an African meat ball in the Food Market and explored more of the waterfront.


They have nice souvenirs as well! Eggs and chess board (Photos courtesy of pangs)!



And that ended my stay here in Cape Town. A great way to start this new journey!

P. S.

Just in case you're not into city tourism, I suggest you do what my colleagues did. Ms. Clauds, Pangs and Tyrone explored the table mountain itself!

And here's one of their epic shots!