Alex on her arrival in Cape Town

More than 24 hours after leaving their homes for this much anticipated journey,
the group arrives in Cape Town: Mackenzie, Meika, Maria, Alex, Kimmi

I’m still in a bit of disbelief that I’m actually in Cape Town seeing some of the most beautiful scenery imaginable, waking up and looking out of my window to see Table Mountain every morning, and sharing this experience with twenty other amazing people. It has only been two and a half days since we arrived, but it feels like I’ve been here forever- minus the fact that I’m seeing all of these wonderful things for the first time.

Alex, Meika, Brittany, Theresa, Erica, Mackenzie at Addis Ethiopian Restaurant

We have a packed orientation schedule for these next two weeks, and so far it has been great. Last night we ate dinner at Addis Ethiopian restaurant, which can only be explained with the phrase- holy cow. The food was delicious and vegetarian friendly which I always find to be a plus. We had large plates that we shared with a small table and ate everything with our hands using injera bread- an awesome experience, and what will soon be a frequently visited eatery. Today, however, was one of the most breathtaking experiences of my life. We drove around the entire peninsula making stops along the way (but passing zebras, baboons, and springboks is definitely going to take some getting used to). We made frequent stops along the way, however I think it’s safe to say the stop everyone enjoyed most was Boulders Beach which houses the penguin colony. They were adorable and scattered across the sand and rocks soaking up the Cape Town sun. It was incredible to see them up close, and be able to swim with them.

Penguins strolling along at Boulders Beach

Though we have only been here for a short while, Cape Town feels like home. Everything is peaceful and beautiful, everyone runs on “Cape Town Time” which is very go with the flow, and every Capetonian I’ve met has been beyond friendly. And when I say friendly, genuinely friendly, whether through smiles, patience, helping us figure out new things, or just saying “pleasure” instead of “you’re welcome” they make you feel at home. This house and city is more than I could have ever imagined- neither pictures nor descriptions do it justice. I can’t wait to see what more amazing experiences occur over the next few months!