Background

This first post serves to explain a few need-to-know things when it comes to South Africa and specifically my studies at the University of Cape Town (UCT).

1. The Internet is expanding in South Africa, which is one of the most technologically-resourced countries on the African continent. However, the Internet is distributed by a national telecoms monopoly, Telkom. Internet in South Africa is offered in varying packages, all priced by MB (bandwidth). This means it costs a lot to upload and download photos/video/music and the Internet is SLOW at times. (Please be patient about seeing my photos. I'm working on finding a way to do this easily and cost-effectively.)
2. This semester July-Nov. 2009, there are roughly 500 exchange students here at UCT. 80% are American and I have only met 2 from North Carolina so far.
   
3. South Africa is undergoing great social changes. Up until 1994, the country was ruled by an Apartheid government, which sought to "socially cleanse" the people by forcibly separating whites, coloureds and blacks. Nelson Mandela, the name you may know when it comes to South African politics, along with the people's movement rose to power, tearing down the Apartheid regime. Although it has been 15 years, there is still a great divide in the quality of life of people. There is much need in most of the country; there are whole communities of shanties surrounding every major city and empoverished rural areas. This causes people to become "creative." Theft and pickpocketing are frequent but avoidable with smart daily practices. I do not go out at night alone and have made a few hundred new friends to walk with after sunset.
4. There are 19 official languages in South Africa. 17 African, Afrikaans (Dutch/English-based), and English.
5. All religions are accepted. It is not like the United States, where there may be some unease about sharing religious beliefs. People of all backgrounds speak and exist more religiously free (i.e. Muslims, Jews, Christians, Hindus can all be seen and heard frequently in politics and public places and schools).
6. Coffee here is amazing!
   
7. Phrases: Eggy Toast = French Toast, Howzit = Hey/How are you?, Braai = Cookout/BBQ, Bru = Bro (friend)