Alex Z's already fallen in love with this country

Alex & Maria

My first sensory impression of Cape Town was the heat. Coming from 20 degrees Fahrenheit was a large adjustment to the 85 degree weather in South Africa, but completely welcomed. Maneuvering through part of the city to get to our house was interesting; there were many diverse people, the cars drove on the opposite side of the road, etc. Moving into the house was great. I was lucky enough to get a single, which is perfect for me because I can have the interaction of the house, but also get time to myself to write, read and reflect on the day. The people on this trip are great. All of the conversations seem to be intellectual and good spirited. This is clearly no place for negativity. Orientation is amazing. This go-go-go schedule is just like I perform at home. I’m exhausted at the end of the day, but it’s completely worth it when you see all of the wonderful things and all you’ve accomplished.

I’ve already done so many things and seen such beautiful things that I haven’t in the states. It feels weird telling people that I’m from America..I’ve never had to explain where Connecticut is either. It just reminds me that the world is much bigger than where I come from. The people here are very genuine, which is very refreshing. New Englanders are known for their high heads and rushed lifestyles. It is testing my patience a bit for the delays in schedule, but I am appreciating the relaxed vibe as well. Everything here from the scenery to the shopping to the food is stunning. It’s all completely rich and original. The mountains are breathtaking, the crafts in the market are all handmade and the food is diverse and delicious. Orientation has greatly expanded my palate with Ethiopian, Malaysian and traditional African food. Ostrich steak is by far the best.

I’ve already fallen in love with this country. Driving by dense treelines, seeing open savannahs and viewing the vast ocean elicits a calm in me that I normally have trouble finding. It’s almost like my problems don’t exist here. None that are truly important, anyway. I’m excited to see what else my time here brings me. My goal is to become more cultured and to grow myself.