Understanding Misrepresentations of South Africa

“Don’t go to South Africa, it’s too dangerous”

This was perhaps the most overused phrase I heard before going to Johannesburg to study.
 Let me start by saying South Africa is a diverse country. While crime and danger should not be overlooked, it also shouldn't be used to define any place. 

My 5 months in South Africa bore little reflection to both media representations of the country, and opinions and 'advice' given largely from people who had never actually been there.
It made me wonder—where are people getting their supposed knowledge from?
 It can’t be attributed to just one thing. 

Bitter expats draw attention to violence and corruption. Media favours political instability, crime, poverty and injustice. International focus can be drawn to one or two big issues, while positive stories fly under the radar

Much of my studies focus on the use of stereotypes in mainstream media. When it comes to representations of countries, it's hard to find a accurate depiction of daily realities in the media. This is particularly so with South Africa.

If I had listened to what the media, my peers and society had said, I would have never have had the absolute time of my life. I travelled to amazing places, lived safely and happily, made unforgettable friends and, most importantly, learnt to call South Africa home.

Want my advice? It doesn’t have to be exploring a poorly portrayed continent- ignore all stereotypes, figure it out for yourself.

I feel so strongly about the misrepresentation of South Africa, I made my first short documentary about it.

This post draws my adventures and life in Southern Africa to a close. Head to Ditchedinasia to follow my current travels, study and general ranting in crazy and vibrant South East Asia.

Taking on Johannesburg

Known to those who live there as Joburg or Jozi, Johannesburg was my home for 5 months while studying on exchange. It's not exactly your typical study destination or overseas getaway. The city isn't known for being particularly attractive or even safe.
However taking on Johannesburg seemed more of a big deal than it was.

It did certainly have its disadvantages.
Getting around as a tourist is difficult thanks to a lack of public transport and too many cars. Every building is covered in barbed wire and security making it just a little intimidating. Power and water outages are more common than you'd like. And unlike the more popular Cape Town, Joburg doesn't offer a whole lot of visual attractions. 

While I don't think Joburg is the best city in the world, there's so much beyond what first meets the eye.
I quickly learnt to love the surrounding hills that frame the city and glow from lights at night. Or how in Spring, Joburg becomes awash with purple from the blooming jacaranda trees (even if they are technically pests). There are some amazing cultural and artistic hubs to get know, and so much to learn about the city. Joburg was founded on the discovery of gold and was a key playing field for many important moments in South Africa's fight for democracy. It's the best place for learning the rich and complicated history of South Africa, as well as the present day social struggles. 

It took me a while to get to know Johannesburg. Don't be put off by what people say, or what it seems from the surface. It does have a lot to offer.
My 9 favourite things to do in the City of Gold are a good starting point if you find yourself in Joburg.

1. Soweto

If you do only one thing in Joburg, make it a trip to Soweto. Named simply as an abbreviation for South West Township, Soweto is richer in history than any other area I went to in Africa.
Stay at Lebo's Backpackers and take a bike tour to see how life works in a township. Walk down Vilakazi St, enjoy the sites, grab a bite to eat and absorb the history. You can explore Nelson Mandela's former house and learn about the 1976 Soweto Uprising and its importance in South Africa's democratic freedom.

Daily life in Soweto

When you're done with the main streets, look out to the skyline and head to the defining Orlando Towers. Not only are the painted towers culturally and artistically significant, it's now a site for bungee jumping and extreme sports. The bungee jump is far cheaper than other places like Vic Falls and the views over the rich red landscape from the top are something pretty special. Even if you're not an extreme sport fan, the towers are worth a visit regardless and there's a place at the base where you can grab and drink, relax and enjoy the view. 

A bungee jumper looks tiny compared to the mighty Orlando Towers

I'd stay a few days in Soweto to get to know the surrounding area and visit other sites like the Hector Pieterson Memorial and Museum or catch a game at Orlando Stadium.

Looking over Soweto and surrounding areas

2. The Apartheid Museum 

This is the best place to learn about the racial system that tore South Africa apart, and their struggle for democratic freedom. Travelling in South Africa would not be complete without a basic knowledge of the apartheid era. While it's not exactly fun like a safari or travel adventure, it was the most memorable place in Joburg. The Apartheid Museum is both touching and overwhelming. Prepare a good few hours to get through it, especially if the extra Mandela exhibit is open. It's intense, but honestly cannot be missed.

3. Markets

Joburg is pumping with bustling trendy food markets that will offer your taste buds something they won't forget. These mouth-watering markets are filled with international foods from Greek souvlakis, crocodile meat skewers, gourmet pizzas, creamy chocolate desserts and the most delicious paella I've ever had. Neighbourgoods Market, open every Saturday from 9 - 3 in Braamfontein, was my favourite. The atmosphere is almost as good as the food, with no shortage of indie market stalls, friendly faces and catchy tunes. Grab a drink in the afternoon and head to one of Braamfonteins bars afterwards. Get your friends together and check out at least one of these markets. 

Come on an empty stomach. 

4. Nightlife

I had some crazy nights out in Joburg. Compared to my home in Australia, the price of alcohol is unbelievably cheap in SA. Getting to know the night scene was an affordable and easy adventure and the venues did not disappoint.

There's sleek and sophisticated clubs like KONG, and more laid back student bars in Braamfontein. I made regular appearances at Taboo and clubs in Fourways. The cool vibes and hip hop room at Kitcheners made it my favourite place to be on a Wednesday or Friday night. 

Check out inyourpocket for info on the best clubs in the suburb near you.

A night out at KONG

 5. The Market Theatre

Located in the cultural and creative hub, Newtown, the Market Theatre offers more than just powerful performances. The theatre itself has an incredible story. It ran as an independent underground theatre during the apartheid era. It was one of the few places where people of all skin colours could come together, making it a huge place of cultural significance. Many of the shows continue to address past and present issues of apartheid. If you find books and museums a bit dull, this theatre is a great alternative way to learn about South Africa's past. It's also incredibly well priced.

Check out the up and coming shows when you're in Joburg and spend the day exploring the artistic culture in Newtown while you're there.

6. Lion Parks

Joburg is home to two Lion Parks- Rhino and Lion Nature Reserve and Lion Park. They're the best place for close-up encounters with African animals as well as small scale animal drives. These parks have nothing on a real African safari, and some organisations claim they feed into canned hunting. However the parks are very popular and provide a great day out. If you want to play with lion cubs, this is the place. You're guaranteed to get great photos sure to make your friends at home jealous.

I've written more about finding the best animal experiences in Southern Africa here.

Up close and personal with Africa's favourite animal at the Lion Park

7. Watch the Rugby

As soon as I mentioned I was Australian, most South Africans would quickly make comment about rugby rivalries. I must make a confession here-- I know next to nothing about rugby. I think I've been to one game in my entire life. This hardly mattered though. Rugby is a huge deal in SA and I absolutely loved heading out with friends to the closest bar on game day, having a drink and pretending I knew what was happening. If there's one thing I wish I did it's go to an actual game there. The atmosphere would be phenomenal.

8. Monte Casino

I'm rarely a fan of casinos and I don't gamble, but Monte was pretty damn cool. The indoor casino is set up as though it is outdoors. Even in the middle of the night, the walls, decorations and lights make the place look and feel like you're gambling outside in broad daylight. 

There's no shortage of gambling and games for those who like to bet. Non-gamblers can just opt for a night of bar hoping, cocktail tasting and dancing in one of the pumping clubs. It's sure to make for a good night.

The glitz and glamour of Monte does highlight the wealth disparities in South Africa. However I was willing to put this aside for a couple of high-class fun nights out. 

9. Use Joburg as a Travel Base

Joburg is ideally positioned to get to know both South Africa, and surrounding countries in Africa. It was easy to organise weekend trips through tour companies, flight deals and car rentals. The mountains of Drakensberg, beachy Durban and neighbouring rural Lesotho are only 5-6 hours drive away. Cheap buses and flights run regularly to Namibia, Botswana and Mozambique.

I met other exchange students based in Cape Town and while they'd had he luxury of Cape Town's views, they'd barely seen the amazing places I'd been able to get to. I wouldn't have had it any other way. Joburg is the easiest, cheapest and best base in Southern Africa for smooth travels.

Weekend road trips were one of the best parts of Joburg life

From Melbourne Australia, I've finished my studies in Africa and am currently making my way across South East Asia. 

Check out my previous posts on the right hand side and follow my latest updates on twitter @ K_ditch

Down by the Waterhole: Botswana

Sitting just above South Africa, I found myself in without a doubt the friendliest country I've visited. Here I was greeted by the most welcoming curious faces and people open to sharing elaborate stories about their lives with complete strangers. The physical environment and animal life were as diverse as the rich history, culture and people.

Welcome to Botswana. You won't want to leave.

A young Bushman in Ghanzi shares some secrets of the semi-nomadic Saan lifestyle

Since gaining independence in 1966, Botswana has grown from one of the poorest underprivileged countries, to a largely successful developing democracy. Its expanding economy is mostly thanks to a thriving diamond industry. Botswana is also famous for its prime cattle, with beef exports stretching as far as Europe. Cows even outnumber people in Botswana twofold.

Driving through Botswana regularly involves suddenly slamming on the breaks to avoid yet another cow, goat or donkey meandering on the road. When you’re not steering around farm life, you'll get caught up in looking at the ever-changing terrain.

From dry white arid sands, vibrant red leaved trees and rich green ecosystems, Botswana will keep you guessing what to expect next.
A trip to Botswana would not be complete without taking in the 1000th UNESCO World Heritage Site- the Okavango Delta. Pristine and unhampered by excessive tourism, the delta really does feel untouched.
If you get the chance to visit, be sure to grab a ride on a mokoro (dug out canoe) and see the best of the delta first hand. Watch as elephants stroll past unfazed by your presence, and count the number of different bird species fly out of the reeds as you float by.

Mokoro drivers make this strenuous task look like light work

Easy days on the delta

Scenic flights run over the delta and are highly regarded as a not-to-be-missed experience amongst tour guides. Flying overhead you can began to comprehend the size and biodiversity of the delta and understand the way herds moves and ecosystems intersect.
Admittedly for me however this was a little hard to appreciate, but hey, not everyone has the stomach for scenic flights. Don't be put off, it is an amazing view. But do check the weather. If you don’t have a strong stomach and it’s a windy day, probably don't spend the $135AUD to stare into a sick-bag for 45 minutes.
The mokoro trip will be just fine. 

The scale of the Delta is easier to understand from air

My slightly disastrous scenic flight experience leads me to my absolute favourite story of my entire time in Africa.
Hands down the coolest campsite I’ve ever stayed, Elephant Sands is an absolutely a must-visit. After driving hundreds of kilometres through open semi-arid terrain, it was both bizarre, and absolutely incredible, to suddenly turn off to a lone watering hole surrounded by large tents, a bar and a small pool. Wild elephants wander through the campsite while you sit back and enjoy a cold beer with friends. I’m not sure whose idea it was to build a campsite here, but they need some kind of serious award.
It was a little slice of heaven in the middle of absolute nowhere.

Hanging out with my new friends at Elephant Sands

As if this wasn’t enough, my friends and I weren’t the only visitors that day. Down by the waterhole we met an elephant who regularly pays visit to the campsite owner. After getting a thorn stuck in it's foot, the elephant used to show the owner its foot as if asking for help. Once figuring out the problem, the owner called in a vet to remove the thorn. Now, every few days or so the elephant continues to return to visit and say thanks.

This is what I was saying about friendly locals and unique stories. Where else in the world would a someone befriend an elephant? It was a truly incredible place.

And I’m not done there. 

If there’s one moment I’ll never forget, it’s sitting on at an empty table underneath the leaking drip of the outside rain, watching countless numbers of elephants flock to the waterhole to drink and play. Just when I thought the moment couldn’t get any more perfect, the sky cleared up and a rainbow appeared right above families of elephants. I can’t imagine a moment more perfect. It just didn't seem real.

Life don't get much better than watching elephants play under a rainbow

It wouldn’t be a complete trip to Southern Africa without stopping over in Bots. Get ready for over-waving to countless smiling children, exploring peaceful and clean ecosystems, and constantly brushing sweat off your body in the searing sun. Botswana is certainly not for cold climate lovers, but it is a place that you will carry with you long after crossing the border.






I travelled to Botswana in November/December on an overland trip with Acacia, staying at Thebe River Camp, Elephant Sands Lodge, Delta Rain’s Sitatunga Camp, Elephant Camp and Ghanzi Trailblazers


 I've journeyed through 6 other countries in Southern Africa. You can follow my top posts on the right hand side or follow my new and upcoming Asia adventure at ditchedinasia or @k_ditch on twitter