Find out the Inside Scoop, South Africa!
This week, we had the pleasure of interviewing Mr. George Georgas of Johannesburg, South Africa. Although born in the United States, Mr. Georgas, at the young age of 18, moved to South Africa with his family. Mr. Georgas offers insight from historic South Africa to present day culture. His perspective is inclusive of popular night life and dining experiences, must see tourist sites and many activities that can be enjoyed young or old on any budget. He reminds us that South Africa is not all that different than any United States city in terms of city-based opportunities, cultures and experiences.
TTI: What are some activities that are worth the cost?
Mr. Georgas: There are so many acitivies in Cape Town that are worth the cost. Not only is it possibly the most beautiful city in the world, but; it also has a wealth of things to do. For example, taking the cable car up Table Mountain. Traveling the Cape of Good Hope where the two oceans meet, and spending time on the waterfront also offer immerse culture and beautiful surroundings. Some other must see attractions in South Africa include The Apartheid Museum and of course the beautiful beaches. There is also much nature to explore such as checking out the Game Reserves to see the big five and watch wildlife in it's natural environment. Lastly, Cape Town is known for producing some of the best wines in the world. There a countless beautiful vineyards to visit that are well worth the trip.
TTI: What are some of the local's favorite hot spots?
Mr. Georgas: Some great hot spots are at Camps Bay for a great beach bar and beautiful views. Another hot spot would be Long Street to experience the night life.
TTI: What is one recommendation you would give to a friend traveling to Cape Town (or South Africa) for the first time?
Mr. Georgas: My recommendation is that you are not going to see lions or elephants walking around the streets. South Africa is to Africa is as New York is to the United States. We have major cities, and a variety of cultures. I can't stand when friends from the States ask me if there are any elephants roaming. Bear in mind the first heart transplant done in the world was done here in 1967 by Christian Barnard. We also have Wifi.....
TTI: What is one thine most tourist aren't prepared for when they visit Cape Town?
Mr. Georgas: The one thing most tourist are not prepared for is the weather. Cape Town is extremely windy and does have a winter. Pack accordingly as June, July and August are the coldest months. Cape Town has bitterly cold winds and rain during this season.
TTI: Is there a specific food in Cape Town (or South Africa) that one should try?
Mr. Georgas: Cape Town has a variety of incredible restaurants and range of great foods. In particular, the dish Pap is a local dish of mielie meal (finely ground corn) which is traditionally served with Chisa Nyama (to us, a BBQ, but done over flames with unique spice mix). The Pap is served with a spicy tomorrow and onion mix with peaches and chili called, Chakalaka. Another traditional dish is called a Potjie Kos, a stew type dish with either lamb, chicken or beef cooked in a large black cauldron over fire. It's amazing! The South African work for BBQ is Braai, which is something we all enjoy while watching rugby over the weekends. For dessert, you must try Koeksuster, an essential twisted donut deep fried and soaked in syrup.
TTI: What is one thing that makes South Africa different from other countries?
Mr. Georgas: The cultural diversity and how far the country has come since democracy and freeing of Nelson Mandela in 1990. Also, the South Africa held their first Democratic Elections in 1994. South Africa is still a very young democracy; but, it has come so far in a short period of time.
TTI: If you had one day in Cape Town, what would you do?
Mr. Georgas: If I had one day in Cape Town, I would spend my morning on the top of Table Mountain, have lunch at Camps Bay and if I have time, I would travel to the Cape of Good Hope.
TTI: What is your country famous for?
Mr. Georgas: Nelson Mandela is without a doubt the most famous figure in South African history including the chaos of apartheid and the riots that ensued just before he was freed. South Africa is also famous for its variety of landscapes such as, oceans of Cape Town and Durban, Felt of Krueger National Park which houses all of the biggest game such as lions, elephants, rhinos, leopards, and buffalo.
TTI: What is something you can do if you're on a budget?
Mr. Georgas: You can do most of the activities above from the perspective of being a back packer. Back packers can get very good prices on shared accommodations. The US currency is very strong, so a dollar goes a long way here.
