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WEDNESDAY VOLUNTEERING Rainbows are something that I haven’t seen in a while considering that it never rains in California . I had seen them plenty of times in Florida , even a double rainbow once in Greece , but the rainbow that I saw on Wednesday morning in Muizenberg , South Africa on the way to Christian David Primary School was unlike any rainbow I’ve ever seen before in my life. It was vibrant and pronounced against the dark gray sky behind it, but what was the most notable was that you could actually see where the end of it led. “Hey Karl, can we take a detour and go find that pot of gold?” Party boy joked, but for once I didn’t disagree with his idea. Karl stopped for us to take photos in an open field where we attempted taking “jumping pictures”, and partially succeeded. Just jumping under a rainbow in South Africa Blinded by the beauty of the rainbow that the rain had caused, I didn’t take into account the toll that the we...

TUESDAY Although I was noticeably dirty and smelled like a second grader, I didn’t bother changing or getting ready when we got back to the Albertyn House after volunteering because I was so damn cold. A few of us were talking about going to Boulders Beach to see the penguins , but couldn’t tell how the weather was going to pan out. Naturally the solution was to Google it. We decided to walk down to Muizenberg beach for a snack and free Wifi, but when we got there it had suddenly cleared up, so decided to take a walk along the beach first. It was as gorgeous as the over-priced postcards that they sell at the airport – soft white sand with gentle waves rolling out onto it after a surfer rides it in, and a picture-perfect mountain background with houses sprinkled along it’s base. Muizenberg Beach The surf program volunteers were all out in the water, surrounded by kids in the bright blue Dreams to Reality wet suits. There was one particularly large figure...

The Mausoleum of Moulay Ismail, Meknès, Morocco. Moulay Ismaïl Ibn Sharif, also known as the “Warrior King”, was the ruler of Moroccan Alaouite dynasty. During his reign he built Meknès and made it Morocco’s capital. The 18th century’s Mausoleum is the resting place of the most famous and notorious sultans of the country, including Ibn Sharif. Today it is believed that coming to the site will bring a divine blessing to the visitor. The building is also a fine example of Islamic architecture and opulent design. Non-Muslims are partly allowed to view the site, but not all of it – however, it is the only one building of the kind in Morocco, which would be open for the tourists at all. Why to go there? One of the most highly regarded architectural sites by the Moroccans themselves. Definitely one of the most popular and best attractions in Meknès. When to go there? The site is open daily at 9:00-18:00 except Friday. How to get there? It is located in the city center, a s...

Lion’s Head, Cape Town, South Africa. The mountain is embedded between the Table Mountain and Signal Hill. The peak soars above the city, reaching the height of 669 meters (2195 feet). A wonderful panoramic views overlooking the city and the ocean open from there. It takes about three hours to reach the summit. On the way up hikers also get to admire numerous historic graves and shrines of the Cape Malay community. Besides hiking, Lion’s Head is a popular spot for paragliding and of course a photographers’ favorite site in the area. Why to go there? Great views, nice hiking trail, a beautiful spot for taking pictures. When to go there? All year round. How to get there? The trail starts from Signal Hill Road. It is quite challenging hike since the slopes are steep, so be well prepared. Photo by Unknown Photo by Stephen Chapman Photo by Unknown Photo by Bradley van der Westhuizen Photo by Paul Indigo Photo by Paul Indigo Photo by P L Photo by Unknown Photo by ...

If you’ve ever dreamt of an authentic African experience, you’re not alone. I was (and still am) among those who fantasize about visiting the massive continent with so much diversity, tragedy, beauty, and history. “Africa.” The name has connotations for all different ranges of emotions for all different people. For some, it is a distant land representing an unfortunate people, perhaps a conglomeration of war torn lands, exotic animals, and primitive people “out of touch with the modern world.” Maybe you just think of scenes from the Lion King. Africa is so much more. And I’ve only had the limited experience of spending less than one measly month in a couple African countries. But it is a month of my life I wouldn’t trade for anything, and it gave me a glimpse of some of the most beautiful people and places I’ve ever seen. Of course every country is different and the contrast between the different areas and cultures of Africa are stark. But if I had to characterize my experience in T...