Cape Town has an amazing location within the country. It’s located along the coast of the Atlantic Ocean and is nestled in between Table Mountain, Lion’s Head and Signal Hill, which make up Table Mountain National Park.
Our first day in Cape Town we wander around our new neighbourhood, do a little bit of shopping and learn about the local history by visiting the District Six Museum, although I do use the term “museum” loosely…
Trying to explain what “District 6” is on paper is tough and unfortunately doesn’t give it the respect it deserves. During Apartheid it was an area of Cape Town who’s residents were typically poor people of various races and religions. The local government decided it was a place better suited for “whites” and went about moving everyone out of the area. Of course, this didn’t happen all at once, nor were the new locations a suitable or acceptable alternative, so the community was torn apart. Add into it the newly-instated “pass laws” which restricted where certain people – aka. non-whites – could work and travel, as well as crime and racial discrimination and you have an area in a constant state of struggle.
This museum was initially created as a way for former residents to find their old friends and neighbours, and reestablish their lost community. It’s now filled with photos, art and memorabilia from the area as it existed as “District 6” prior to Apartheid. It was definitely a worthwhile experience and a good way for us to understand part of what makes South Africa tick.
In the evening, we head to a local bar for a comedy open mic. For the last 8 months Eric has been without live comedy and although he isn’t able to get on stage, he is able to get his fix, albeit a small one. Coincidentally enough, this is another good way for us to understand the social and political situations in South Africa.
The following day, after enjoying a good – no, make that a GREAT burger from the Royale Eatery on Long Street, Eric and I take on the challenge of hiking up Table Mountain.
The sky is crystal clear, which makes it a perfect day for the experience.
We make it to the top in a very respectable time and then decide to take on the challenge of walking back down the mountain. For the record, this decision isn’t made because we want a physical challenge, so much as it is because I don’t like cable cars.
Table Mountain leaves us sore and tired, but happy, so we book a car and prepare to head out on another road trip, this time along the coast and through wine country.
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