The Minibus

For those of you who plan on visiting SA at some point in the future and are interested in a real, non-touristy, genuine SA experience, I'd recommend taking the minibus/taxi. Because the public transportation system here is basically non-existent and incredibly inefficient, you have to rely on these minivans that just frantically shuffle around the city picking as many people up as possible. They legitimately squish you like sardines in there, trying to fit at least 16 pepople in per trip. And if you're stuck in the back seat (where I somehow always end up), you get death stares from EVERYONE as you try to get out (that or they just flat out don't move...which is often the case). Oh ya and you'll probably (actually definitely) be the only white person on the bus, and will therefore receive scores of puzzled looks from other passengers on the bus who are shocked when you pass up your change.

And there's always the opportunity to make life-long friends. For example, this is the verbatim conversation that I had with a strange man on the ride home yesterday. I'm pretty sure his name was Neil, though I must admit I was a little too taken back to actually remember:

*Pass Neil my change for the driver*

Neil: So are you married? (Yes, this was actually his first question)
Me: (with the most confused look on my face ever) No!

N: Why not?
H: Because I'm too young.

N: How old are you?
H: 19

N: But you're older than 18.
H: I'm still too young.

*30 seconds later*

N: So do you have kids?
H: (screaming) NO

N: You don't have kids?? (in a state of disbelief)
H: No.

N: Why not?
H: Because I'm 19.

N: Oh. I see.

*30 seconds later*

N: So do you have a boyfriend?
H: Yes

N: How many?
H: 1

N: Just 1?
H: Yes, just 1

N:How many girlfriends does he have?
H: I hope just one...

N: Just one?
H: Yes, just one.

*Pick up another passenger*

N: Do you want to get married?
H: Yes eventually.

N: Do you want to work?
H: Yes

N: So then when are you going to get married?
H: When I'm older and find the right person.

N:But are you going to work?
H: I'm going to work and be married.

*Silence....then I got off the bus*

So, as I said before, I would definitely recommend the minibus. And Mom, because I know you're reading this, yes, I'm safe and fine. No I did not get followed home. And no, I didn't tell him any personal information.