Day 1 in Cape Town

After what seemed to be a never ending journey through various airports, we have arrived safely in Cape Town!! It really didn't hit me that we were actually in South Africa until the drive to our lodge. Even the view of this place at night is breathe-taking. Moving from airport to airport is exhausting. It wasn't until the moment that we stepped outside in South Africa and inhaled the biggest breathe of fresh air did we realize that we hadn't been outside in approximately 30 hours. That was 30 hours of breathing recycled airport air and eating airplane food and sitting in the upright position. I cannot describe the words of how it felt to walk outside, breathe the fresh moist air, and realize that I was standing in South Africa. I am finally here and taking every moment as it comes.

Things were somewhat messy when we got to our lodge with some miscommunication with our directors and the lodging staff. Nevertheless, we eventually got a bed and crashed. Even after sleeping for an obnoxious amount of time of each of the plane rides, we couldn't be happier to see a bed. This morning was an interesting story as the showers were either scolding hot or insanely cold... it seemed to switch about every 3 minutes.

After the complicated morning or getting ready and organizing our things in their rightful places, we had orientation with our guides: Alan, Jane, and Aaron. Just a preview of the expectations and guidelines to the trip. After this short introduction and "get to know you" stuff, we took a tour around the city. I can't come close to explain the beauty that this city has to offer. I have already taken around 100 pictures (somehow I will get them on here to show you)! I couldn't help to snap pictures left and right just to make sure that I will never forget what I experienced on Day 1 of Cape Town. Our group is already becoming so close and finding each other interests and then working with them. We are becoming a family :)

With my past knowledge from my family members and research, I am finally being comforted and reinforcing all of the amazing things that this country has to offer. I have seen pictures and artifacts that my family members have brought back to the states as well as heard stories of the adventures that they have had. I am pleased to say that I will be the one coming back with the insights and stories to share with family and friends this time around. Following family and family friends to this amazing country was the best decision I think I have ever made. I have a good feeling that the relationships that I build on this trip not only lead me to become wiser and more experience but it may lead to a return visit to follow another passion of mine: nursing.

Well that's all for now folks... until next time!