Afrikaans Dropped As Primary Language At The University Of Pretoria

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The students at the University of Pretoria are experiencing a culture shock.

The South African university has decided to drop Afrikaans as the official language, switching over to English. According to many students, English is the preferred language while learning. The move has sparked discussion on Twitter from students and non-students alike, talking about the new policy. The Minister of Finance of South Africa, Tio Mboweni, tweeted his disagreement with the move.

Others chimed in on how they feel as well.

Historically, the Afrikaans language policy was used to keep black learners in a country where racism was deeply rooted. The word apartheid is, in fact, an Afrikaans word.

RELATED: South African Asks Hilarious Questions With #AmericaCanIAsk Hashtag On Twitter

South Africa has 11 different languages spoken throughout the country:  Zulu, Xhosa, Afrikaans, Sepedi, Setswana, English, Sesotho, Xitsonga, Siswati, Tshivenda and Ndebele. They were constitutionally recognized in an effort to end institutional racism and come to grips with South Africa’s historical divisions. “In an ideal world we would like all languages to have equal status in teaching, but it’s not practically possible or feasible, so not a lot happens in other languages,” the University of Pretoria’s spokesman said. “The university will still encourage multilingualism. We’ll offer support services to students in their enrolment – where practically possible – in their home language.”

The change started at the start of the year but was set back in 2016 with numerous student protests starting across the region, creating hashtags like #AfrikaansMustFall and #FeesMustFall.

Even though the university is embracing multiple languages, the demand for Afrikaans-language teaching is dropping. Eighty-five percent of students come from Afrikaans-speaking households back in 2016, and only 18 percent of students said they wanted classes in Afrikaans. “Afrikaans will be phased out over time,” the school’s spokesman said. “Students already in the pipeline will still continue getting their classes in Afrikaans.”

Pro-Afrikaner civil rights group AfriForum think otherwise, they even accused the university of lying in its changes to languages policy. “They got it wrong. They associated it with the appointment of the new vice-chancellor – but I don’t know where they got that impression because the change has been coming for some time”. Millions of residents in the country still speak the language but this move is supposed to help others who don’t speak the language still feel welcome, especially in an educational setting.

Firefighters Save Major Tourist Hotspot In Cape Town

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For those traveling to South Africa and looking to try paragliding, you might want to think again.

The infamous Lion’s Head and Signal Hill in Cape Town caught fire Sunday night, and roads are still closed off according to officials. As of Monday morning, the flames are finally under control thanks to 70 firefighters and 20 firefighting vehicles working restlessly to stop them. Reports say the fire started Sunday afternoon around 4 pm and got stronger thanks to winds close to 25 to 30 mph.  Residents were asked to evacuate the premises as soon as possible. “The city’s fire and rescue service remained at the Signal Hill fire throughout the night mostly monitoring and dealing with hotspots that they could reach,” City of Cape Town Fire and Rescue spokesperson Theo Layne said.

RELATED: Protests Erupt After Black Visitors Were Asked To Leave Cape Town Beach 

Emergency vehicles have blocked most of the main roads, but for those flying into the region, there is no need to worry as incoming and departing flights from Cape Town International Airport didn’t seem to be affected by the fire. The best news is that there hasn’t been any property damage or reported injuries, but officials are still looking at the area on the lower slopes of Lion’s Head near Quarry Hill. Some residents and visitors were able to capture video and pictures and post on social media, sending people in a panic.

Residents are thankful for the firefighters who worked hard to save the land they called home. “I cannot stress enough how incredible they were,” resident Spencer Jay said. “It was like Dante’s Inferno.” The fire stopped right before it caused damage to the first line of houses and schools in the area. One of the city’s kramats, a place of Muslim worship, on the rump of Lion’s Head also wasn’t damaged as flames got very close to the historic structure. The retiree from London said he and his wife were given offers from numerous people with places to sleep, but they decided to tough it out.

Signal Hill Road is still closed so firefighters can monitor the spots of remaining fire lines and potential flare-ups.

South Africa Asks Hilarious Questions With #AmericaCanIAsk Hashtag On Twitter

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South African had time on Twitter earlier this week to ask the questions they’ve always been curious about.

It’s no secret some stereotypes floats over the African continent. From poverty to the constant conversation about color, South Africa has had enough. Residents of the country decided to ask Americans questions using the hashtag #AmericaCanIAsk, finally getting it off their chests. The questions and the responses were hilarious.

Remember the video that was recently floating around showing lions causing a traffic jam in the middle of the street? Well, they weren’t too fond of Americans that seem to think this is the norm.

It’s common sense that football over here is much different than football in South Africa. It’s actually a completely different sport. Here in the states, we call it soccer. But that didn’t stop residents from asking the question.

There have been plenty of celebrities that have come from South Africa and made a name for themselves. Everyone’s favorite Charlize Theron and the bad boy of cars, Mr. Elon Musk, to name a few. But South Africa has named late-night talk show host Trevor Noah their pride and joy. So much so that they want him returned to sender.

RELATED: Johannesburg, South Africa: Best Local Cuisine

Speaking of celebrities, South Africa has a problem when it comes to being overlooked for world tours. Yes, we know Beyonce and Jay-Z were just there, but that’s not enough for them.

They also had time to question the film industry. There is a high possibility that movie lovers around the world feel the same way, but that doesn’t mean the question shouldn’t be asked. South Africa wants answers.

The hashtag also gave some Twitter users a history lesson. South Africa has contributed so much to mankind and sometimes, things get overlooked, so they decided to make it known.

It looks like South Africa has Twitter trolling down to a science.

Flight Deal: From The East Or West Coast To South Africa For Only $533

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United Airlines, and its affiliate SWISS, have dropped their prices on flights to Johannesburg, South Africa. You can fly from Los Angeles or New York for as low as $533.

The low-priced flights are valid for travel in mid-February through March. You can find the same fares for as low as $525 if you use third-party sites via Skyscanner. Otherwise, use Google Flights to find the dates that work best for you.

These flights include a long layover in Zurich, Switzerland. You can turn your trip into a 2-for-1 and set out to explore some of the Swiss city.

Related: Johannesburg, South Africa: Best Local Cuisine

We adore the beauty and splendor of Cape Town, but for a truly progressive city that is poised to make an impact, nothing beats Johannesburg. Johannesburg is still fairly young, but here you’ll find countless black men and women doing their part to put Jozi on the international world stage. There are plenty of startups in the South African city. The creative community is booming, and major technology companies have been investing in Johannesburg for years. If you want a peek into what the future of Africa could look like, this is where you should start.

Johannesburg is filled with so much history. You must visit the Apartheid museum to gain a better understanding of the racial tension that plagued the country only a few decades ago. You also have the option to visit Soweto, one of the poorest townships in South Africa.

It is also said to be the foodie capital of South Africa. Braai, or grilled meat in Afrikaans, is the most popular style of cuisine for South Africa. When you head to Johannesburg, don’t skip out on all of the delicious food it has to offer.

Make sure you grab this deal fast.

Protests Erupt After Black Visitors Were Asked To Leave Cape Town Beach

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Protests erupted at Cape Town’s Clifton 4th beach after security guards were accused of telling black tourists to leave.

Demonstrators, organized by the Black People’s National Crisis Committee, said that amongst all the visitors at the South Africa beach, black people were targeted by the guards. The guard were apparently were hired by residents. After claims of rape, the firm says it was acting with police to protect residents from crime. Dan Plato, mayor of Cape Town, said the guards asked people of all races to leave and that claims of targeting black people specifically are false. Plato also said the firm “had no authority to ask anyone to leave Clifton beach.”

“We will not allow any private organizations to limit access to our public spaces,” Plato said.

Things started getting out of hand when demonstrators decided to perform a ceremony by slaughtering a sheep to cleanse the beach of racism, a practice that was immediately challenged by animal wellness protestors.

RELATED: Johannesburg, South Africa: Best Local Cuisine 

Reports of sexual assault around the beach surfaced three days before Christmas. Beachgoers weren’t going for it and apparently stopped it. Police said no rape was officially reported, but officials had information about the assault of a 15-year-old girl.

“If anyone claims they were on the beach and chased away they would have seen that it was absolute mayhem and that law enforcement was really doing a great job to stabilize the situation,” security firm chief executive Alwyn Landman said. “We did not close the beach.”

Local activists and protestors are standing their ground and disagree with the claim. They believe the guards were trained to discriminate.

“These private security guards are actually briefed to not allow black people who appear to look like they are from the townships on to the beach,” local activist Chumani Maxwele said. Maxwele started the hashtag #ReclaimClifton and witnessed the sheep killing.

“The offering of the sheep is calling on our ancestors to respond to our trauma at the hands of white people over the years,” Maxwele said.

The beach clearing reminded people of South Africa’s apartheid era when black and white people were segregated in public areas. Footage released shows black and white people arguing and pushing each other. Things calmed down later after people of all races were seen dancing together in solidarity.

Why Afropunk Attendees Should Stay At This South African Hostel That Caters To Curious Minds

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For the second year in a row, the beloved Afropunk Fest is making its way to Johannesburg, South Africa. With major acts like Kaytranada, Big Freedia and Thundercat headlining the show, people from all over are coming for this festival, whih means they need somewhere to stay.

Curiocity is a new brand of hostels and hotels that is quickly becoming the go-to spot for travelers visiting the African country. With inexpensive rates, welcoming accommodations and locations in Johannesburg and Durban, Curiocity is perfect for music lovers attending the annual showcase. TN talked to Curiocity founder and CEO, Bheki Dube, about the brand and why it’s important to make a permanent mark.

Travel Noire: How did the idea for Curiocity start?

Bheki: It all begins with one word. Storytelling. We are descendants of African Jali (storytellers, poets) and Curiocity is an extended version of youth trying to share the stories of the cities that we are in. So the idea of Curiocity was born. The idea was entrenched from a very young age, however, I opened the doors in November 2013 after I had been doing walking tours of the city of gold, (Johannesburg) I started realizing that people were not just interested in coming to the city to look at art, have a coffee and fly off. They were also interested in staying and having lasting experiences of the city. So I thought why not grow the model, have people take part in our tours but also stay with us.

Travel Noire: What are some key features Curiocity has over other hostel properties?

Photo courtesy of Bheki Dube

Bheki: We are cultured, and culture cannot be manipulated and that’s what other properties don’t have: a truly urban African experience. We tick all the boxes. We have dorm rooms, standard double rooms, premium en-suite rooms that are accompanied by great co-living facilities (bar, restaurant, communal kitchen, lounge areas, co-working spaces) for the digital nomads and we are well positioned in the neighborhoods we choose to have a Curiocity.

RELATED: Best Places To Spend New Year’s Eve Around The World

Travel Noire: The hostel culture is starting to take over the hospitality industry. Why do you think they have become so popular over the last year or two? 

Bheki: Hostels have become popular because they offer a great investment opportunity, they have a low-cost high-value model. That’s why a brand like Hilton are also starting to tap into this segment. The rise of millennial travelers has also made the hostel offering popular, travelers these days are interested in experience-based offerings than just a bed & hostel offer loads of experiences.

Travel Noire: Afropunk is coming to South Africa. Are you looking forward to the experiences your guests will have? 

Photo courtesy of Bheki Dube

Bheki: Yes, we are ready! We have jam-packed itineraries for patrons coming to Afropunk including tailor-made experiences for the actual Afropunk team, from Soweto township experiences to Nirox Sculpture park visits & African dining immersions.

Travel Noire: There has been a rise in African travel. Do you think the stigma of traveling out there has been broken? 

Bheki: We have seen a huge trend from USA travel groups breaking the negative stigma that many have on Africa and bringing large groups into “the motherland.” It must be Black Panther, hahaha! People are starting to realize that traveling to Africa is accessible and with neighborhoods like Maboneng in Joburg, we have been able to provide foundations and spaces that are safe to explore Africa.

Travel Noire: Where is Curiocity going in the next five years?

Photo courtesy of Bheki Dube

Bheki: We have a mid and long-term African expansion strategy. The year 2019 will see us open our next location in Capetown, South Africa and really creating a black integrated destination in the mother city. We have also locked in a site in the Kruger national park that we will be announced mid-2019. The rest of Africa, we are still in talks with local partners, and we hope to have our first hostel outside South Africa by the year 2020.

Afropunk takes place on New Year’s Eve.

Was Gandhi A Racist?

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A statue paying homage to Mahatma Gandhi has been removed from the Accra campus of the University of Ghana.

After it was installed in 2016, lecturers and professors started a petition to have the statue removed, claiming that the late Indian leader was “racist” and respect should be paid to African leaders first. First placed in the university’s recreational quadrangle, reports say that the statue will be relocated. “Having his statue means that we stand for everything he stands for and if he stands for these things his alleged racism, I don’t think we should have his statue on campus.” law student Nana Adoma Asare Adei said.

Gandhi is one of the most prolific figures of the 20th century. Best known for leading non-violent protests throughout India, Gandhi spent a lot of time living and working in South Africa, inspiring many.

RELATED: This Is The Only Tour You’ll Need On Your Next Trip To The Motherland

But was Gandhi a racist? Some of his comments on black Africans are concerning, calling black South Africans “kaffirs,” an offensive racial slur. He also stated that Indians were “infinitely superior” to black people. The book, ‘In The South African Gandhi: Stretcher-Bearer of Empire,’ South African academics Ashwin Desai and Goolam Vahed explored the fact that Gandhi kept struggles of Indians “separate from the struggles that Africans and coloreds experienced. Ironic, since Indian people were denied political rights based on the color of their skin.

Gandhi’s grandson and biographer Rajmohan Gandhi, says that in his younger days, Gandhi was extremely “at times ignorant and prejudiced about South Africa’s blacks.” Another Gandhi writer, Ramachandra Guha, says that “to speak of comprehensive equality for colored people was premature in early 20th Century South Africa.” Desai and Vahed disagree. “Gandhi believed in the Aryan Brotherhood. This involved whites and Indians higher up than Africans on the civilized scale.,” Desai said. “To that extent, he was a racist. To the extent that he wrote Africans out of history or was keen to join with whites in their subjugation he was a racist.”

South Africa Cannibal Case Closes With Both Men Sentenced To Life In Prison

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Citizens in South Africa no longer have to live in fear after two men who were “tired of eating human flesh” were sentenced to life in prison.

After wandering into a local police station last year, officers were confused by the random claim but Nino Mbatha, who was holding a bag with a human hand and piece of a leg, took the officers to a house in Estcourt. The house, in KwaZulu-Natal province, had a bunch of body parts inside. Pietermaritzburg High Court judge Peter Olsen charged both men for the murder of a woman named Zanele Hlatshwayo last year, calling it ‘the most heinous crime.’ Destroying a human corpse and being in possession of human tissue are criminal offenses, but weirdly enough, there is no direct law against cannibalism in South Africa.

Three men denied all charges against them. Natasha Ramkissoon-Kara, a spokesperson for the National Prosecuting Authority said that Mbatha denied saying anything about eating human flesh shortly after authorities arrested him, so prosecutors decided to try the case as murder as an alternative. Magubane got involved after he went to Mbatha for muti, a South African term used for traditional medicine. Wanting it for good fortune,  Mbatha suggested they should get a woman or child since the “ancestors insisted that blood needed to be spilled.”

RELATED: Did South Africa’s Crime Steal The Show From Beyonce And Jay-Z’s Global Citizen Performance?

Hlatshwayo was killed by Mbatha with the assistance of Magubane, according to prosecutors. The 25-year-old was dismembered and body parts were used to make the traditional medicine. “What happened, in this case, is truly awful. It was the stuff of nightmares,” judge Olsen said. “How one would react in such circumstances is unpredictable. One may well want to unburden oneself of guilt but later have second thoughts.”

While cannibalism should be a crime across the world, there are other countries, like Germany and Russia, where the gross act isn’t considered illegal.

The Most Beautiful Places To Stay In Cape Town, South Africa

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Millions of people from all over the world travel to Cape Town, South Africa to explore the country’s wine, culture, adventure, and iconic scenery.

The Cape Floral Region, stretching from the Cape Peninsula to the Eastern Cape, was placed on the World Heritage of the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) list in 2004. With more than 2,600 plant species, the floral region contains some of the richest plant biodiversity in the world.

The iconic Table Mountain is a significant tourist attraction that draws millions of visitors each year for hiking to the top where tourists experience one of the country’s most scenic views.

With so much natural beauty in one place, here are some of the most beautiful places to stay in during your visit to Cape Town:

Taj Hotel Cape Town

Located in the heart of Cape Town is Taj Hotel. Formerly the old South African Reserve Bank, this building was restored but retains its marble columns, floors, and lofty domed ceiling.

Spread throughout three buildings are 176 rooms and suites that vary in size and style. Guests can choose to view Cape Town’s skyline or Table Mountain.

Photo courtesy of Taj Cape Town

 

12 Apostles Hotel & Spa

If you’re looking for the best spot to view sunsets in Cape Town, then consider booking with 12 Apostles Hotel & Spa. Staff at the hotel boasts how this hotel, in particular, has the longest hours of sunshine in Cape Town: guaranteeing an amazing view of the sunset over the Atlantic Ocean.

Photo courtesy of 12 Apostles Hotel & Spa

 

The Table Bay Hotel

The Table Bay Hotel is an upscale property located in the Waterfront District. If you’re looking to be swept off your feet, then this is the hotel for you. In addition to an amazing view of Table Mountain, guests will have the chance to indulge in a high tea experience.

Photo courtesy of The Table Bay Hotel Cape Town

 

Atlantique Villa Camps Bay

During your stay at Atlantique Villa Camps Bay, guests have the option to relax on a furnished balcony with panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean, Table Mountain, or the Twelve Apostles Mountain Range which forms the back of Table Mountain.

Photo courtesy of Atlantique Villa Camps Bay

 

The Penthouse on Beach

With a perfect score on Airbnb, the Penthouse on Beach listing remains a top choice among visitors for its breathtaking views.

Airbnb | The Penthouse on Beach Cape Town

 

Urban Oasis

Another popular Airbnb listing in Cape Town is the Urban Oasis. This urban home features an urban garden and tons of space.

Airbnb | Urban Oasis Cape Town

 

Pod Camps Bay

Located on the north end of Camps Bay beachfront is Pod Camps Bay. This hotel sits in perfect proximity to the Camps Bay strip, which is known for its beaches, gastronomy, nightlife, and shopping.

Photo courtesy of Pod Camps Bay

South African President Says Trump Is ‘Ill-Informed’ About Land And Farm Seizures

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South African President Cyril Ramaphosa thinks that President Donald Trump is slightly confused about the country’s land and farm issues. In an exclusive interview with CNN, Ramaphosa said “fringe groups” lobbying in the U.S. are partly to blame. “They are finding people who get some resonance with what they are saying, and these people are ill-informed about what is happening here,” Ramaphosa said. “Just as President Trump was ill-informed about the messages that they are beaming out.”

 

Back in August, Trump tweeted a request to Secretary of State, Steve Pompeo asking him to “closely study the South African land farm seizures and expropriations and the large-scale killing of farmers.” In response, the US State Department hasn’t revealed if a “close study” has occurred. “Expropriation of land without compensation risks sending South Africa down the wrong path. That remains the US position,” said U.S. Embassy spokesperson Carrie Schneider. “President Ramaphosa has indicated that land reform would be undertaken without damaging the economy.”

 

This morning, CNN released the details of an investigation exposing the relationship between the U.S. and South African far-right groups and others who are supposed to be fighting for the rights of minority populations. New reports give credit to the myth that there has been a genocide of white South African farmers, who are the minority in the country. The Southern Poverty Law Center, who tracks white supremacists, says Trump helped ignite these conspiracy theories. “In the main, most of them are racists. And they are not very positively disposed toward black people,” Ramaphosa told CNN. “Their voice, a seemingly prominent voice, is because they are talking on race issues and saying there is a racial war. There is no racial war in South Africa. White South Africans are working with us to resolve this issue.”

 

The South African president has admitted that the goals for land distribution have been put on hold since Nelson Mandala’s reign because of fraud and corruption, but promises that things will be different during his time in office. Ramaphosa is known for working with his business connections and ruling party, building an impressive portfolio, making him one of the richest men in South Africa. He has stopped the fears of investors, saying that land reform could help the country’s economic potential and help people in poverty. “The impact of apartheid on black families was devastating. In my own family it happened twice, where land was taken, we were moved from where my parents had grown up owning land, working the land, they were moved and dropped into an arid place with no compensation whatsoever,” Ramaphosa said. “As it is now, the poverty that we have in South Africa, in part, has been given rise to by people not having assets.”

 

RELATED: French President Urges Museums To Return Stolen African Artifacts

 

Under the law of apartheid and colonial rule, non-whites in South Africa were forced off the profitable land in South Africa for years. Because of democracy, land redistribution was a major priority for the ANC-led government, but whites still own most land.

Trump Nominates Handbag Designer As Ambassador To South Africa

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Since the midterm elections are over, President Donald Trump is looking to get back to business as usual. Yesterday, Trump appointed handbag designer Lana Marks as the next US ambassador to South Africa. Marks was born and raised in South Africa and attended the University of the Witwatersrand as well as the Institute of Personnel Management in Johannesburg. She also speaks Afrikaans and Xhosa, two of South Africa’s native languages.

 

The fashion executive has an impressive resume, starting her handbag line in 1984 when she wasn’t able to find a handbag to match an outfit she wanted to wear to Queen Elizabeth’s birthday celebration. Her luxury bags come in over 100 colors and exotic animal skins, like ostrich and alligator. The prices, as you can imagine, are pretty steep. Starting at close to $20,000.00, Marks’ most expensive bag to date is a clutch that costs $400,000.00.

 

Marks is also a Florida resident where she is an exclusive member of the Mar-a-Lago resort, owned by Trump. Club membership is $200,000 and Marks isn’t the first Mar-a-Lago member tapped into Trump’s White House administration. Robin Bernstein, a founding member of the resort is the U.S. Ambassador to the Dominican Republic.

 

There are still several State Department positions open. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo has vowed to cut the number of vacancies in the department. “This is a priority of his,” Department spokeswoman Heather Nauert told reporters. “He said that in his hearings on Capitol Hill, he said that to us privately, and I know he’s alluded that to all of you publicly, as well.”

 

The Palm Beach Daily describes her as “like Trump, a relentless self-promoter,” and Marks has also held a position as a longtime board member to the Women’s Leadership Board at Harvard University’s Kennedy School of government. According to the website, both the board and the program focus on gender equality and improving lives around the world and is a strong supporter of the Women and Public Policy Program.

 

Marks will still need to be confirmed in the Senate.

13 Experiences You Must Have In Cape Town, South Africa

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Cape Town, South Africa is a bucket list destination for countless travelers, but as one of the most robust cities in the world, it can also be overwhelming if you don’t have a solid plan in place when it comes to what you want to see and do. You could visit Cape Town multiple times and still not see all that the “Mother City” has to offer, but if you want to start with the highlights, these experiences are not to be missed.

 

Take the cableway to the top of Table Mountain

A visit to Table Mountain is the best way to start your trip to Cape Town, but make sure the aerial cableway is in operation! The cableway is often unavailable in the winter months due to the weather, but when it is in operation, it’s the most convenient way to access the mountain, which offers breathtaking views of Cape Town that you won’t find anywhere else.

 

Photo courtesy of Table Mountain Aerial Cableway

 

Take a Cape Malay cooking class

Cape Town’s Cape Malay population are a diverse group of people who are descendants of Southeast Asian slaves that were brought to South Africa in the 16th century. Food is an essential part of the history of the Cape Malay people, so take a cooking class like this one offered on Airbnb Experiences to learn more about the history and flavors that are distinct to the Cape Malay culture.

 

Visit Robben Island and Drakenstein Correctional Centre

Beginning in 1962, Robben Island, a tiny island located in Table Bay just 4.5 miles from Cape Town, held black and “colored” anti-Apartheid political prisoners, and it was where the future president Nelson Mandela was held for 18 of his 27 years in prison. For his final years in prison, Mandela was sent to Drakenstein Correctional Centre, where he was housed in a cottage for 14 before his release on February 11, 1990. Tour the locations with Mandela’s former warder for a moving look into the life, struggles, and hardships of Mandela, and to get a deeper understanding of his fight for equality in his native land.

 

Photo courtesy of Travel Noire

 

Relax in one of Cape Town’s tranquil gardens

Walking through one of Cape Town’s many public parks or gardens is an ethereal experience, and there are so many to choose from! Locals love the green lawns at De Waal Park and the trail at the Green Point Park and Biodiversity Garden is perfect for an inspiring morning run. Play a life-size game of chess at Company’s Garden or visit the Durbanville Rose Garden between October and May to see thousands of rose bushes in bloom, all free of charge! Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens is one of the most popular gardens in the region, and though there’s a fee to get in, the garden is one of the most celebrated gardens in the world and worth the visit.

 

Have a photo shoot in Bo-Kaap

The homes in the beautiful neighborhood of Bo-Kapp are painted in bold, beautiful colors, which makes them the perfect backdrop for a fun photo shoot. Grab a friend or a tripod and head to Bo-Kaap to get your perfect, vibrant photos for the ‘gram.

 

Photo courtesy of Unsplash | Claudio Fonte

 

Have a night out on Long Street

Want to see how Cape Town parties? Long Street is Cape Town’s answer to Bourbon Street and it’s the place to be if you to go bar hopping and dancing in the city center. There are plenty of bars, clubs, and restaurants to choose from, but if you want a relaxed vibe, visit during the day to enjoy cafés, shops, and bookstores.

 

Learn about South African wine

Within the Western Cape, you’ll find several wine regions which all produce the pinotage, MCC (South Africa’s version of sparkling wine), and Chardonnay that the country is known for. Take a tour of wineries in the beautiful town of Paarl or marvel at the centuries-old vineyards in Franschhoek, but if it’s your first time in Cape Town’s wine region, you’ll want to do your first wine tour in Stellenbosch.

 

Hang out with penguins at Boulders Beach

Head to Boulders Beach near Simon’s Town between September and February to see thousands of adorable African penguins frolicking in the water, playing in the sand, and living their best lives under the African sun. You can get pretty close to the penguins, but it’s safe to keep a nice distance since they’re known to bite.

 

Photo courtesy of Unsplash | Jack Young

 

Browse artwork at Zeitz MOCAA

With more than six floors, Cape Town’s Zeitz Museum of Contemporary Art Africa is the largest contemporary art museum in all of Africa. Here you’ll find paintings, video installations, sculptures, and mixed-media work by artists from countries throughout Africa and the African diaspora, and the museum gorgeous museum is conveniently located at the bustling V&A Waterfront.

 

RELATED: An Art Lover’s Guide To Cape Town, South Africa

 

Go shopping at V&A Waterfront

After you’re down browsing art at Zeitz MOCAA, spend the rest of the day shopping at the V&A Waterfront and the Silo District. There’s something for everyone at this sprawling mixed-used space, so whether you want to shop at stores that are recognizable or you want to support local artists, designers, and merchants, you’ll find everything you’re looking for here.

 

Stroll down St. James Beach

The row of colorful bathing boxes along St. James Beach is instantly recognizable, and the beach itself is tiny and ideal for a picnic or a dip in the tidal pool. During the summer months, the picturesque beach gets packed, so you’ll want to go early in the day during the popular season or visit when the crowds are smaller during the winter.

 

Photo courtesy of Unsplash | Arno Smit

 

Learn about slavery in South Africa

Located in one of the oldest buildings in Cape Town, The Slave Lodge is a museum that explores the history of slavery throughout South Africa. The museum has a collection of antique ceramics, silverware, and household objects, and the galleries feature both permanent collections of artifacts and rotating contemporary art exhibits.

 

Watch the sunset at the Cape of Good Hope

Rugged and serene, the cliffs, rocks, and natural vegetation you’ll find at Cape Point (which is in the Cape of Good Hope nature reserve within Table Mountain National Park) is a reminder of the natural beauty that can be found all throughout Cape Town. Spend some time watching the waves crash as you walk along the rocks and be sure to stop by the lighthouse.

An Art Lover’s Guide To Cape Town, South Africa

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The art scene in Cape Town, South Africa is one of the biggest draws to the cosmopolitan city, and whether you’re cruising through a popular tourist area or visiting a local township, the creativity can be seen in world-class museums, independent art galleries and even in and outside of private homes.

 

Cape Town has long attracted creatives from all over the world, and if you want to explore the city’s best artwork, we’ll tell you where to go and what to do.

 

Spend the day at Zeitz MOCAA

 

You’ll need plenty of time and energy to make it through the grand Zeitz Museum of Contemporary Art Africa, a contemporary art museum that has six sprawling floors at the Victoria & Alfred Waterfront. Having opened in the fall of 2017, the museum is the largest contemporary art space in all of Africa and has a basement gallery and a restaurant and sculpture garden on the roof. From video installations and large-scale sculptures to paintings that are socially charged, this museum captures the breadth of creativity that exists throughout the continent and the African diaspora. The rotating and permanent collections highlight artists from throughout Africa as well as black American greats like Glenn Ligon and Kehinde Wiley and every exhibit demands that you take your time to appreciate the work.

 

Photo courtesy of Zeitz MOCAA

 

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Stroll through Woodstock

 

A Cape Town suburb with industrial roots, Woodstock is home to some of the most ambitious art galleries and design studios in the city, and the street art has helped to shape the look of the region. There are plenty of fine art galleries to visit on your journey through Woodstock, so pop into Stevenson Gallery and a gallery owned by self-taught artist Muso Masoabi before visiting collectives like Greatmore Artists Studios to meet those that are redefining art in South Africa.

 

Marvel at murals and house galleries in Langa

 

Located just eight miles from Cape Town, Langa is one of the oldest townships in all of South Africa, and the local arts community is vibrant and thriving. Langa is home to the Guga S’Thebe Arts and Cultural Centre, which is used to host exhibits and artistic events, and the township is also known for the brightly colored murals that are painted on homes and buildings throughout the township. Getting a tour of the neighborhood via companies like the black-owned Maboneng Township Art Experiences, which offer tours on Airbnb Experiences, and are highly recommended, especially since you won’t want to miss exploring the mini art galleries located inside the homes of longtime Langa residents.

 

Photo courtesy of Shontel Horne

 

Be inspired during First Thursday

 

Plan on visiting Cape Town on the first Thursday of the month? Museums, art galleries, shops, and restaurants welcome thousands of visitors during First Thursdays, as the local creative community unites to enjoy live performances and the see the latest collections from painters, sculptors, photographers, and designers. If you want to take home art from your time in Cape Town, you’re sure to find the perfect pieces here.

 

Support Cape Town’s youth at 18 Gangster Museum

 

Wandisile Nqeketho grew up in the township of Khayelitsha, and he opened 18 Gangster Museum as a response to the gang culture he witnessed throughout his life. 18 Gangster Museum was created to help turn the children of Khayelitsha away from local gangs, and the museum tours, lead by reformed gang members and ex-offenders, take visitors on a powerful journey into the history of South Africa’s gangs through photographs, videos, and real-life stories.

South Africa Expected To Ease Visa Rules To Boost Tourism

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Traveling to South Africa is about to get a whole lot easier. The country’s cabinet has decided to loosen its visa rules and scrap a controversial travel requirement for children in a ploy to attract more investment and tourists, according to a report from Skift.

 

The loosening of visa rules is just one among a series of initiatives announced by President Cyril Ramaphosa as officials look for ways to revitalize South Africa’s economic growth. Officials are exploring various options to stimulate the struggling economy following a recession that hit Africa’s most industrialized markets in the second quarter of 2009.

 

The government’s plan to attract more people includes easing work-permit requirements for specialized skills and simplify the process for business and leisure travelers seeking short-term entry documents in South Africa. Multiple-entry visas and electronic applications will also be introduced, according to reports.

 

The requirement that traveling children be accompanied by one natural parent with a full birth certificate stating the names of both parents will also be scrapped.  The measures, introduced in 2014 to reduce child trafficking, led to a drop in the number of visitors to South Africa.

 

In addition to visa changes, travelers should also note that Ramaphosa announced the establishment of a new infrastructure fund which could make traveling easier more accommodating down in the future.

 

According to BusinessTech, Ramaphosa said that a township and rural entrepreneurship fund would be established to provide finance to either scale up existing projects or provide start-up capital for new projects.

 

According to reports from Bloomberg, South Africa is mainly targeting travelers in two of the world’s fastest-growing outbound tourism markets: China and India. China accounted for more than 130 million travelers globally, according to Tourism Minister Derek Hanekom. India is projected to have 50 million people traveling abroad by 2020.

 

Travelers to South Africa from outside the continent declined by at least 1.5 percent on a year-to-year basis during the first seven months of this year, according to data from Statistics South Africa.

 

Travel Noire Eats And Recipes: South African Bobotie

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Nothing unites people quite like food. To celebrate the black men and women who are using food to connect cultures and communities, we’re sharing some of our favorite recipes from chefs, at-home cooks, and food lovers who know that great flavors can bring us all together. The team behind African Chow (@africanchow) shares how to make Bobotie, a traditional South African dish of mildly spiced curried mince with a savory custard golden brown topping. 

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INGREDIENTS

1 onion, roughly chopped 30g Butter
500 g free-range beef mince salt
Black pepper, freshly ground
2 slices brown bread, crusts trimmed 250 ml buttermilk
4 Free-range eggs, beaten
65 ml dried apricots, dried and chopped 1 apple, peeled and grated
65 ml seedless raisins
2 tsp sugar for the egg whites
2 Tbsp mild curry powder
bay or lemon leaves
1/2 tsp turmeric, ground

INSTRUCTIONS

1. Preheat the oven to 180°C.
2. Gently cook the onion in the heated butter until meltingly soft and golden.
3. Add the beef mince and pan fry for 5 minutes with the onion. Season to taste.
4. Tear the bread into bits and mash it with 65ml of buttermilk and 1 beaten egg.
5. Mix the apple, raisins, sugar, salt, curry powder and bay leaves and then mix it with the mince and bread.
6. Turn into a buttered baking dish (one large dish or individual dishes).
7. Beat the remaining 2 eggs with the rest of the buttermilk and the turmeric, and pour over the spiced meat mixture.
8. Bake for 20 minutes or until the topping is set and golden.