©
David Debrincat
South Africa Travel Guide
©
David Debrincat
On 11th February 1990, Nelson Mandela was freed. On 30th June 1991, apartheid was officially abolished. These two dates will mark South African history for ever. They opened up the county to the rest of the world and prompted economic development.
With decades of racist laws thrown in the bin, 1994 saw the first free elections in South Africa. Winning 62% of the votes, Nelson Mandela was elected and, inspired by the words of Desmond Tutu, began to elaborate a 'Rainbow Nation'. His party, the ANC, has been in power for 21 years. Although the country's economic growth is undisputed, the disparity between black and white communities remains a problem. The social divide between impoverished townships and neighbouring, rich districts is shocking. Sometime it feels like South Africa's dream of achieving equality is just that - a dream.
When you arrive in Cape Town or Johannesburg, you won't be able to avoid the shock of leaving an ultra-modern airport and, within a few kilometres, passing by poverty-stricken townships.
A simple walk through town will show you that whites share wealth and power, whilst a good 40% of the black population remains unemployed.
Speaking as a tourist, I was struck by one thing when in a park in Cape Town. I came across a school for black kids and another that was exclusively white. I had a hard time believing that such segregation was still imposed. Fortunately that's not the case. There's another explanation. Kids go to the nearest schools in their district; different communities rarely mingle and despite the Rainbow Nation's desire to blend, it's not all that easy to implement.
Representing 25% of the continent's GDP, South Africa is the richest country in this part of the world. Although a major exporter of mineral products and food as well as being a Top 5 diamond producer, the country has not forsaken its tourist industry. The tourist trade is thriving and a wide range of attractions pull in around 8 million visitors per year. So how can I define tourism in South Africa?
Well there's certainly something for everyone. History and culture fans will enjoy the bigger cities' museums. Those of you wanting to meet locals can visit Zulu tribes or take a tour of townships such as Soweto. Watersports lovers and thrill-seekers will adore the country's 1,000km of coastline - a surfer's paradise. South Africa is also a great place to spot Southern Right Whales or to go cage dive with Great White sharks in Gansbaai. Families and nature lovers won't want to miss out on a safari. The famous Kruger National Park is one the most beautiful in the world. I also can't imagine anyone on holiday in South Africa not spending a few days hiking through the stunning Drakensburg countryside.
All this to say that South Africa is well aware of its tourist appeal and knows how to milk it for what its worth. The country benefits from rich mineral resources and is continually developing its tourist trade.
