The next day, Mark was kind enough to drive us through the city of Durban explaining the various areas where Indians, blacks and whites were segregated. He was quite emotional about it but the best part is that he says that South Africans have chosen the path of forgiveness. That truly is the only way forward for them as a country and whilst they recognize that their generation has lost out, it will be their children who will benefit. According to him, he (the black people) is in a race of 100 kms and they are starting when the others (the white people) have already run 80 kms. However he finds the challenge interesting and believes that the blacks will truly overcome the obstacles. I was very impressed with his attitude and his achievements so far.
The Indian quarter
The Parliament
Streets named after 2 great personalities.
We visited the Durban Botanical Gardens which was over 150 years old. The main attraction was the famous Baobab tree which I had to see. There was also a hothouse filled with every kind of orchid, which is my favourite flower.
We then went to the Moses Mahdiba stadium which hosted one of the World Cup football matches. It is more than a stadium and has been designed for multi functional uses including being able to host other games like cricket and rugby. It is also an architectural gem and has a cable car ride up to the rooftop where you can have a bird’s eye view of the Durban skyline.
Having come so far, it was a shame to have not spent anytime at the beach. Mark was kind enough to take us to the Golden Mile which is a popular stretch of the beach. I managed to dip my toes in the warm waters of the Indian Ocean, knowing that at the other end, it touches my beloved India. The beach was interesting. There were lots of stalls selling food and knick knacks, people picnicking, swimming and generally having a good time. Hard to believe that probably 20 years ago, the beach too was out of bounds for the black and coloured people!
Saturday was spent at the Bryanston Organic market. What a wonderful experience! There were a lot of stalls selling all kinds of interesting stuff. Managed to find some unique decorations for my Christmas tree. I was wondering to myself …………….
- We take our freedom for granted. Even today, everyone lives behind closed gates in South Africa.
- Yet they have a lot of outlets for entertainment like the various handicraft markets that I visited.
- There are many activities for kids in safe environment where they can express their creativity as well as develop a love for nature.
- South Africa is a sports loving nation and every person is involved in running, cycling, swimming or some other physical activity.
- There is a lot of natural diversity in South Africa and numerous game reserves for every budget where the family can spend a weekend close to nature.
- There are plenty of entertainment parks where the family can spend the entire day as well as learn a little about the history of the country. E.g. Gold Reef City.
- Self catering accommodation is more popular than bed and breakfasts as it is cheaper.
- The best way to see the country is to drive. Time to get an international driving licence!
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