Cakhama:

TMK, unjani mfowethu? I got that right, didn't I? ... (I also understand that not every South African is Zulu).

Anyway, I love SA and I also love your writing. Do you by any chance have a travel blog?

Thanks a lot Cakhama! Really, you're awesome for my ego I don't have a blog, this is my first attempt at creative writing. If I were to, it would probably be on politics and world affairs (yeah, I'm boring like that ).

You hit the Zulu on the nail, well done! And you get extra brownie points for the disclaimer - coz Zulus actually make up far less of the SA population than most people give them credit for. I think you can tell I'm not one of them, right? But not hating. (p.s. saying mfowethu is a guy thing).

So, you say you love SA, tell us a bit more about that please. Have you been here? When, where, what, why, how?? In the meantime, I'll drop some Day 3 action for y'all.

TMKsouth:
The Early Bird Catches the Lion (Day 1, 06:00)

So, you landed last night and have now just woken up. What do you do now?

Let's ease into your trip with a visit to the park, shall we?! Jo'burg is famous for being the world's largest man-made forest. But unfortunately, the city of gold does not have wild animals or even game reserves. What?!!

So, to connect with the wild, you gonna act like a local and head off to 'Lion Park and Safari Resort' just a few kilometres outside the city, to the 'Cradle of Humankind'. But remember to put on your brave hat, because you'll be riding through lion and wild dog enclosures (but you'll be the one in the cage, lol) as well as getting upclose and personal with Simba's cubs. Roar, they are just too cute!

This place really makes sense.

MejiLoyon, we could come for a Safari here

TMKsouth:
Everyone on Earth is African (Day 1, 09:00)

While you're in the neighbourhood, drop in at the 'Cradle of Humankind World Heritage Site'.

This is where fossils of some of the earliest known life forms on Earth have been found, such as the earliest known dinosaurs - dating back at least 200 million years. You'll also come face-to-face with our earliest human ancestors - who first emerged about 7 million years ago, right here in Africa.

Spooky! But fascinating.

And that should conclude your morning. I think we should grab something to eat for lunch. Hmmm, where should we go for that? ...

So beautiful

TMKsouth:
Hop On, Hop Off (Day 2, 09:00)

Since a trip to Gold Reef City could possibly be a whole-day affair, you could choose to explore the real City of Gold instead. And the best way to see the city centre of Jozi in a single day is to take the official city tour bus. So, let's hop right on!

The red Double Decker Hop on-Hop off Bus has over 16 stops, and takes you to over 20 of Johannesburg's top attractions, including the Apartheid Museum, the Constitution Hill and much more!

It's safe, fun, educational and convenient!

Lovely!

TMKsouth:

Thanks a lot Cakhama! Really, you're awesome for my ego I don't have a blog, this is my first attempt at creative writing. If I were to, it would probably be on politics and world affairs (yeah, I'm boring like that ).

I follow your posts, and you're anything but boring.

TMKsouth:

You hit the Zulu on the nail, well done! And you get extra brownie points for the disclaimer - coz Zulus actually make up far less of the SA population than most people give them credit for. I think you can tell I'm not one of them, right? But not hating. (p.s. saying mfowethu is a guy thing).

I wouldn't know from your username whether or not you're Zulu, but going by the way you started your greetings with Dumela, I'm guessing you're Sotho/Tswana/Pedi?
Oh yeah. Thinking about it, that mfowethu word sounds like a guy thing. I'm guessing it's something like dude, or my guy, or my homie, or bro.....

TMKsouth:

So, you say you love SA, tell us a bit more about that please. Have you been here? When, where, what, why, how?? In the meantime, I'll drop some Day 3 action for y'all.

Yes, I've been to SA once for a work-related function in Sandton (Indaba Conference Centre). I'm sure you know the place. I didn't get time to tour the places I had heard about (such as Mandela's house in Soweto, etc) but I always thought I'd travel back as a tourist and then that shiit called Covid happened and disrupted our calendars. My love for SA though comes more from the personal relationships I developed with a few friends I made in the course of my work. You may be wondering how I know some stuff like an "insider". I also read. I also watch documentaries. I get curious A LOT. I also watch e.tv's Scandal, Imbewu, and Ekasi stories. I also used to watch Rhythm City before it became trashy.

Anyway, keep up with the thread. I'm hoping somewhere along the line you'll take us out of Gauteng to Kruger Park. I am a sucker for wildlife.

.

TMKsouth:


Glad you enjoyed your stay, always great receiving positive feedback. Remember to share a tiny bit on your stay in Joburg, pls pls pls. Any place I shouldn't leave out - also throw in!

it was really fun;
Too many places to see. Was at monte casino, visited lions park...sort of a mini safari .
Also visited crocodile park where I hung a live snake on my neck
Also visited Soweto, went to Nelson Mandela’s house, did a walking tour in Soweto.
Visited the tallest building in Africa.
Went around the old Johannesburg with the hop-on-hop-off bus.
Capetown was much more interesting though, I spent more time there.
Fond memories. Will likely visit towards the end of the year again, that is, if the people that owns the world won’t spring up a surprise that will shut down the world before then.

PS: I’m looking for a South African babe to marry o

Cakhama:

I follow your posts, and you're anything but boring.

I wouldn't know from your username whether or not you're Zulu, but going by the way you started your greetings with Dumela, I'm guessing you're Sotho/Tswana/Pedi?

Oh yeah. Thinking about it, that mfowethu word sounds like a guy thing. I'm guessing it's something like dude, or my guy, or my homie, or bro.....

Yes, I've been to SA once for a work-related function in Sandton (Indaba Conference Centre). I'm sure you know the place. I didn't get time to tour the places I had heard about (such as Mandela's house in Soweto, etc) but I always thought I'd travel back as a tourist and then that shiit called Covid happened and disrupted our calendars. My love for SA though comes more from the personal relationships I developed with a few friends I made in the course of my work. You may be wondering how I know some stuff like an "insider". I also read. I also watch documentaries. I get curious A LOT. I also watch e.tv's Scandal, Imbewu, and Ekasi stories. I also used to watch Rhythm City before it became trashy.

Anyway, keep up with the thread. I'm hoping somewhere along the line you'll take us out of Gauteng to Kruger Park. I am a sucker for wildlife.

Thanx for following me, and please don't take my negative comments personally - it's just me taking care of trolls . Yes I'm Sotho-Tswana and mfowethu means exactly that (Zulu/slang)

You really do have insider info, I would not wanna get into a debate with u - you are far more informed than my advesaries on NL. It's wonderful also that you've made SA friends, that's the only way to bridge the gap between us.

So you get eTV in Nigeria? That's interesting! Do u get SABC too - my former employer?

Lol, I doubt I'll get to Kruger National Park in this thread coz it's way far away from Joburg although easily accessible by road and air. Maybe in a thread focussing on Limpopo or Mpumalanga.

PS. What went through your mind at the Soweto Mandela House? I think Nigerians really revere him (maybe even more than us )

cucumbar:
it was really fun;
Too many places to see. Was at monte casino, visited lions park...sort of a mini safari .
Also visited crocodile park where I hung a live snake on my neck
Also visited Soweto, went to Nelson Mandela’s house, did a walking tour in Soweto.
Visited the tallest building in Africa.
Went around the old Johannesburg with the hop-on-hop-off bus.
Capetown was much more interesting though, I spent more time there.
Fond memories. Will likely visit towards the end of the year again, that is, if the people that owns the world won’t spring up a surprise that will shut down the world before then.

PS: I’m looking for a South African babe to marry o

@bolded LMAO

Lol, sore point about Cape Town being more fun than Joburg depends on what you're into because my city buzzes (financial hub) whereas the Cape is more chilled. But I'll concede - Cape Town is built for tourists.

Glad I covered most the areas you visited in Joburg, shows I'm on the right track! Although, I've never been to the crocodile park. I also wanna carry a snake!

FYI - The tallest building in Africa is no-longer Carlton Centre which is where I guess you went to (Eye of Africa). Stay tuned for the new tallest building, it's also in Jozi

(PIC - Old tallest building in Africa - you can view panoramic views of the city on the 50th floor)

PS. The issue of marrying SA chicks is a contentious one dude, so let's leave it there

A Tale of Two Cities (Day 3, 09:00)

If you chose to have fun at Gold Reef City and skipped the Hop-on Hop-Off Bus, today might the opportunity to visit two of the stops on the bus route. The historical route!

It will be sombre, it might be emotional, but most of all it will be educational. A visit to any city in South Africa is never complete without learning why they are structured in the odd way that they are - formerly between the different races (Apartheid), and currently more along class lines.

So, visit the 'Apartheid Museum', which has permanent and temporary exhibitions of a once deeply divided country that is today working towards unity and lasting peace.

Next go to 'Constitution Hill', the new home of the country's top court, which was a prison for freedom fighters during the struggle against apartheid.

Cakhama:

I follow your posts, and you're anything but boring.


I wouldn't know from your username whether or not you're Zulu, but going by the way you started your greetings with Dumela, I'm guessing you're Sotho/Tswana/Pedi?
Oh yeah. Thinking about it, that mfowethu word sounds like a guy thing. I'm guessing it's something like dude, or my guy, or my homie, or bro.....


Yes, I've been to SA once for a work-related function in Sandton (Indaba Conference Centre). I'm sure you know the place. I didn't get time to tour the places I had heard about (such as Mandela's house in Soweto, etc) but I always thought I'd travel back as a tourist and then that shiit called Covid happened and disrupted our calendars. My love for SA though comes more from the personal relationships I developed with a few friends I made in the course of my work. You may be wondering how I know some stuff like an "insider". I also read. I also watch documentaries. I get curious A LOT. I also watch e.tv's Scandal, Imbewu, and Ekasi stories. I also used to watch Rhythm City before it became trashy.

Anyway, keep up with the thread. I'm hoping somewhere along the line you'll take us out of Gauteng to Kruger Park. I am a sucker for wildlife.

You really are observant,Rhythm City indeed has becoming really really trsashy

Lovely thread keep the pics cominf TMK

IronGalaxy:
Lovely thread keep the pics cominf TMK

Thanks IG!

Painting the 'Rainbow Nation' (DAY 3, 13:00)

Let's change templates and bring some colour back after exploring the city's dark side, shall we?!

Cosmopolitan Jozi is itself a canvass for public art, statues and graffiti that you will you spot along the road. The city is also home to 21 notable museums and art galleries. They all have colourful histories of their own - from the vibrant 'Museum Africa' in Newtown, to upmarket 'Rosebank Art Gallery' in the suburbs , and the miniature 'Gallery Momo' in Randburg to the classical 'JAG' (Joburg Art Gallery) nestled in the heart of the city centre.

There's definitely something to suit all tastes and budgets!

Sawubona Sci-Bono! (Day 3, 13:00)

If you're traveling with the little ones a trip to an art gallery might not be wise. But don't despair - there's always Sci-Bono!

This fun kiddies playground right in the city centre is a world-class science and technology hub that could spark an interest in a future career in the field.

Thank them later when your kid becomes the next South Africa-born Elon Musk or Mark Shuttleworth - the first African in Space.

Hello Sci-Bono. Hello the future!

Hakuna Matata at Night (Day 3, 19:00)

The sun is setting on your second day in Joburg, but the city's vibrant nightlife still has more to offer you. So what are you waiting for?!

Do you feel like watching some live ballet, a pantomime for children, an opera production, or even hilarious stand-up comedy? All these are on offer at many of the valued theatres and live performance venues around the city.

Google local guides for what's on at the spectacular 'Teatro' at Monte Casino, the historic 'Market Theatre' downtown which previously boldly defied apartheid laws, or the new colourful cubed 'Soweto Theatre', among many exciting options.

So, Hakuna Matata! No worries for the rest of your day.

TMKsouth:

Thanx for following me, and please don't take my negative comments personally - it's just me taking care of trolls .

I don't take anything personally on this forum as some people on here have a way of bringing out the worst in people. Really uncouth, unrefined personalities. They troll to release their anger on innocent netizens but I usually try not to get myself entangled in that madness. If you've got the stamina to go head-to-head with them trolls, more power to you.

TMKsouth:

It's wonderful also that you've made SA friends, that's the only way to bridge the gap between us.
So you get eTV in Nigeria? That's interesting! Do u get SABC too - my former employer?

Oh well. I am not Nigerian. I am not an ECOWAS citizen, neither am I a citizen of any SADC country. I thought about putting up that disclaimer in my previous post but I thought against it. I do not like mentioning my country of origin because many Nairalanders lack the capacity to dissassociate one's comment from the person. Immediately they know where you come from you'll get to read some of the most imbecilic comments targeted towards you or your country folks.

TMKsouth:

Lol, I doubt I'll get to Kruger National Park in this thread coz it's way far away from Joburg although easily accessible by road and air. Maybe in a thread focussing on Limpopo or Mpumalanga.

No problem Sir. It's a cool thread anyway.

TMKsouth:

PS. What went through your mind at the Soweto Mandela House? I think Nigerians really revere him (maybe even more than us )

Like I said, I never got a chance to go there but it's on my bucket list.
Mandela is revered by many. If you ever had the misfortune of being a citizen of a country where leaders are always thinking about themselves and treating public funds like family property, you'll understand why non-Southies rate Mandela highly among African leaders. He, alongside Nyerere and Sankara are up there.

IronGalaxy:
You really are observant, Rhythm City indeed has becoming really really trashy

Sure. And killing off every cast member mostly through violent deaths.
Anyway, that's a discussion for another thread. I don't wanna ruin TMK's beautiful thread.

Cakhama:


Oh well. I am not Nigerian. I am not an ECOWAS citizen, neither am I a citizen of any SADC country. I thought about putting up that disclaimer in my previous post but I thought against it. I do not like mentioning my country of origin because many Nairalanders lack the capacity to dissassociate one's comment from the person. Immediately they know where you come from you'll get to read some of the most imbecilic comments targeted towards you or your country folks.

Like I said, I never got a chance to go there but it's on my bucket list.
Mandela is revered by many. If you ever had the misfortune of being a citizen of a country where leaders are always thinking about themselves and treating public funds like family property, you'll understand why non-Southies rate Mandela highly among African leaders. He, alongside Nyerere and Sankara are up there.

Very interesting , sorry I misread, thought you made it to Mandela House.

Hmmm, now you've raised my curiosity as well as to who you actually are , but eventually I'll decifer it, I'm sure. So far I'm thinking somewhere in East Africa (KE/TZ) - if SADC and ECOWAS are off the table. Initially, I thought American. Will have to go through your posts with a fine comb to figure this one out. Will keep you updated with my findings

TMKsouth:


@bolded LMAO

Lol, sore point about Cape Town being more fun than Joburg depends on what you're into because my city buzzes (financial hub) whereas the Cape is more chilled. But I'll concede - Cape Town is built for tourists.

Glad I covered most the areas you visited in Joburg, shows I'm on the right track! Although, I've never been to the crocodile park. I also wanna carry a snake!

FYI - The tallest building in Africa is no-longer Carlton Centre which is where I guess you went to (Eye of Africa). Stay tuned for the new tallest building, it's also in Jozi

(PIC - Old tallest building in Africa - you can view panoramic views of the city on the 50th floor)

PS. The issue of marrying SA chicks is a contentious one dude, so let's leave it there

yeah... this was the building I visited. South Africa is truly blessed.

TMKsouth:
A Tale of Two Cities (Day 3, 09:00)

If you chose to have fun at Gold Reef City and skipped the Hop-on Hop-Off Bus, today might the opportunity to visit two of the stops on the bus route. The historical route!

It will be sombre, it might be emotional, but most of all it will be educational. A visit to any city in South Africa is never complete without learning why they are structured in the odd way that they are - formerly between the different races (Apartheid), and currently more along class lines.

So, visit the 'Apartheid Museum', which has permanent and temporary exhibitions of a once deeply divided country that is today working towards unity and lasting peace.

Next go to 'Constitution Hill', the new home of the country's top court, which was a prison for freedom fighters during the struggle against apartheid.

visited this museum too, opposite the golden reef (was at the golden reef as well).
Was amazed at how rich this museum is and how well the contents have been preserved up till now. Saw letters written many many years ago,...so many stuffs I can’t recall now.
Was at the constitution hill as well.Got to see the cells that housed the black activists.
I’m not one that is normally interested in history, but the visit to the apartheid museum and constitution hill was epic. It was really touching seeing what your founding fathers went through.

Pics below are some of the cells at the constitution hill and the court where sittings take place with our beautiful tour guide.

South Africa has a very rich history.

The thread is getting interesting, keep up the good work.

TMKsouth:

Will keep you updated with my findings

Please do.

cucumbar:
visited this museum too, opposite the golden reef (was at the golden reef as well).
Was amazed at how rich this museum is and how well the contents have been preserved up till now. Saw letters written many many years ago,...so many stuffs I can’t recall now.
Was at the constitution hill as well.Got to see the cells that housed the black activists.
I’m not one that is normally interested in history, but the visit to the apartheid museum and constitution hill was epic. It was really touching seeing what your founding fathers went through.

Pics below are some of the cells at the constitution hill and the court where sittings take place with our beautiful tour guide.

South Africa has a very rich history.

Wow cucumbar, thanx for sharing and bringing depth and a personal touch to your visit on the historical route! And it's awesome that you consider returning to our city for a visit, it's really humbling. You're always welcome.

Cakhama:

Please do.

I found something that might confirm you from 'Nairobiland'

TMK, you should start a travel blog. This is a masterpiece.

South Africa is not just a beautiful country where you satisfy your eyes and mouth.

South Africa captivates your soul, leaving you with undying memories. You're on your way to the Airport, and you just want to stay back.

South Africa is life.

TMKsouth:


I found something that might confirm you from 'Nairobiland'

Oh well, what can I say?

mofedamijo:
TMK, you should start a travel blog. This is a masterpiece.

He should, right?

mofedamijo:
TMK, you should start a travel blog. This is masterpiece.

South Africa is not just a beautiful country where you satisfy your eyes and mouth.

South Africa captivates your soul, leaving you with undying memories. You're on your way to the Airport, and you just want to stay back.

South Africa is life.

well said, bro.

Come on TMK, the guests should go bungee jumping at the soweto towers

Could have advised skydiving too but I'm not sure there are many places for skydiving in Jborg. Where I know is CT.

mofedamijo:
TMK, you should start a travel blog. This is masterpiece.

South Africa is not just a beautiful country where you satisfy your eyes and mouth.

South Africa captivates your soul, leaving you with undying memories. You're on your way to the Airport, and you just want to stay back.

South Africa is life.

He really shd have a blog and a tourism agency in SA

080bjaked:


He really shd have a blog and a tourism agency in SA

Yea. Just that tourism is dull at the moment. I do a bit of tourism too. But it's as dry as winter for now.