This time we head to Durban. It is a huge city on the southeastern coast of South Africa. It lies on the Indian Ocean. It is an incredible mix of people and cultures. There are about 3 million people living in this booming city. It has a very strong Indian influence as well as African and European influences. We had a very interesting time for sure.
We did a little bit of American stuff while there much to the delight of our Africa-based friend. We went to two movies and to an American chain restaurant. The mall we went to was just as nice as any mall I have seen in the US. The beach was also lovely. Much nicer than the beach in St. Lucia, mostly because the wind wasn't nearly as strong. We were able to enjoy some time just relaxing and chatting while enjoying the beautiful scene and the lovely weather.
The Victoria Street Market was awesome too. You could buy everything there from unique foods, to jewelry, to scarves, to horse bridles. It was great. We saw tons of people and walked thru some really...umm....interesting areas on the way there. It was certainly an interesting experience to be someone who doesn't fit in. My two traveling companions had brown hair, and blended a little better, but I stood out like a sore thumb with my very blonde hair.
People also assumed that because we were Americans that we were wealthy and lived lives like those of Beyonce or or other famously wealthy folks. It was such a different perspective and one that I never really thought about. But it was certainly a new feeling to have people staring at me because I was different. Anyway...here are the pictures. : )
The city skyline from the world's scariest harbor ride ever. We nearly got run over by a huge ship, and then nearly capsized from a giant wave caused by another giant ship. And dancers that put on a show on the beach sidewalk.
Giant cargo/container ship and the spices at the market. It smelled so, so awesome. Wish we could have brought some back to the states.
On the beach and at the Indian Restaurant in the Casino. Yep there was a casino.
Me standing on the shores of the Indian Ocean. The three of us with all of our stuff in front of the Hilton, where we got to stay one night thanks to reward points. It was the best shower ever.