Everything is new...

Heita,  Aweh, Sawubona, Molo, Unjani, Dumela, Howzit?

Or in other words “Hi, how are you?” in some of the south African official languages. In the area where I live now it`s mostly a “Hi, how are you?” and even though people always say “i`m good and you?” you ask anyways.

It`s time i wrote something about the life in South Africa. So, i assume you all wanna know what`s the difference between Europe and South Africa. Let`s talk Pretoria first. I can come up with something more fun or personal later, i promise.

-No, I don`t live in a mud hut. I share a flat with a Texan girl and have my own room. Yesterday we played the Settlers of Catan. I sucked at it.  Normal life ;)

-You can`t walk anywhere, really. Things are so spread out, you drive everywhere, kinda like in the States. Except on the other side of the road. I have awkwardly bumped into people new restrooms trying to politely pass them, just to realize too late i`m coming from the wrong side. May God get this out of my system before i get to drive a vehicle!!!

-People mostly socialise in malls and houses. You call up a friend and meet for coffee in a mall or you throw a braai (bbq) in your yard, inviting people, who will bring their own meat to grill. Good news: craft beer culture is on the rise!

-The work culture is being built from the bottom to the top. People are invited to work for a small amount of money or just tip, only to make sure they work and don`t stroll the streets looking for mischief. It`s good and sometimes hilarious. A man in a reflective vest will help you park, even though you`re perfectly capable to find a spot and park yourself. But you tip them anyway cause, hey, they`re working! Life generally is more flexible and fluid in the matter of details.

-FOOD is amazing. Seriously. You need to come and eat your way through the nation.

-People are generally very nice and good hearted; when you smile and have a short chat, it will open doors to pretty much anything.

-You don`t go out much at night, due to safety issues. We live in a gated area of a few blocks and out apartment building has another fence around it. Not sure how much it his helps, but hey, we`re trying. Very safe and calm during the day though!

What else would you like to know? Ask me questions!