Upon arrival at Cape Town International Airport, a driver from the Radisson Hotel Waterfront chauffeurs us into the city, a forty minute drive on the highway towards the coast. His name is Paul, and he speaks glowingly of Cape Town, “the world’s most beautiful city.” We pass monuments, hospitals, universities, and he gives us a brief background history on the significance of each. […]
Today is my 30th birthday. Holy Jesus. Supposedly I’ve just entered into my “prime” years. I don’t know, wasn’t that term coined by disgruntled Manhattan women in their 40s? When the hotel concierge, taxi drivers, and tour operators ask why we’re here, the conversation naturally leads to my birthday and Peter’s. Friendly Capetonians assure us that 30 is an age to be proud of, that we still look “youthful,” that we should enjoy these “golden years.” […]
Whale-watching day! Ever since elementary school when my field trips consisted of whale-watching excursions off the Catalina Islands, I’ve been fascinated by whales. They’re my favorite animals. Whales recur in my dreams, though I’ve yet to find a bona fide Freudian significance in their appearance. My mother-in-law believes they mean I’ll give birth to a son. […]
Last day in Cape Town… time to go shopping in the City Centre. We start the morning with a buffet breakfast on the outdoor patio of our hotel. Fascinating, exotic, fresh fruit spread. The sea breeze is blowing, boats are sailing, and Table Mountain is looming tall. We feel alert and content. […]