Our World Cruise Arrives in South Africa … Cape Town … and Other Ports on the Coast

Day 74 Sunday March 29, 2015 Richards Bay, South Africa

Situated on the southeast coast of Africa just north of Durban, this KwaZulu-Natal city takes full advantage of its diverse resources and reveals a pride in its recent industrial development and expansion. A bustling business center with modern facilities synergistically coexists with a lagoon setting, giving travelers a range of interesting sights and experiences from which to choose. Perhaps most popular is the Richards Bay Game Reserve, an area established to protect lagoon animals and give visitors the opportunity to see some of South Africa’s most fascinating creatures. Hippos and crocodiles make their home here, along with an amazing variety of birds. In fact, 300 species have been recorded in these habitats, including flamingos, cormorants and the rare pink-backed pelican.

Day 75 Monday March 30, 2015 Durban, South Africa

With a subtropical climate and golden beaches lining its shores, Durban is one of South Africa’s most popular holiday destinations. It embodies an intriguing blend of Eastern, Western and African influences. Along the palm-fringed beachfront, Zulu women sell beads and baskets while colorful rickshaw pullers pose for photographs. Just minutes away from the office blocks, theaters and shops of the business center, is a world of mosques, temples oriental festivals and bazaars, fragrant with spice and incense. The city’s cosmopolitan charm even extends to its many inviting restaurants, which offer mouth-watering cuisine from around the world. Since a recent facelift, several thoroughfares have been converted into pedestrian malls complete with sidewalk cafes, shrubs and palm trees; portions of the road network have been upgraded to promote easier traffic flow; and the main beaches have been widened and enhanced with new facilities. Durban is truly the “Golden Mile” of South Africa.

Day 76 Tuesday March 31, 2015 At Sea Cruising the Coast of South Africa

Day 77 Wednesday April 1, 2015 Port Elizabeth, South Africa

Port Elizabeth’s location at the end of the Garden Route hints at what makes the town so appealing. Certainly, it has its share of cultural attractions, including the King George VI Art Gallery, which houses treasures such as 19th- and 20th-century British art and Oriental miniatures. But the real gems of the area are of the out-of-doors type. In addition to being famous for its fine beaches and mild climate, Port Elizabeth (often shortened to “PE”) is considered the water sports capital of South Africa, with scuba diving, game fishing and kiteboarding being ever-popular pursuits. Wildlife is revered and closely observable at numerous eco-centered attractions, including the Oceanarium, showcasing daily dolphin and seal shows, and the Snake Park & Tropical House, home to exotic and indigenous snakes and featuring streams, waterfalls and free-flying birds. The area outside of town offers exciting game-viewing opportunities, with the Addo Elephant Park being a particular highlight.

Day 78 Thursday April 2, 2015 Cape Town, South Africa (overnight)

With majestic Table Mountain as a backdrop, Cape Town occupies one of the most dramatic locations in the world. Its eclectic mix of architectural styles reflects the tastes and dictates of the past, in tandem with the 20^th century’s more functional demands. Edwardian and Victorian buildings have been meticulously preserved and there are several outstanding examples of Cape Dutch architecture. Cobble-stoned streets, mosques and the flat-roofed pastel houses of the Malay Quarter showcase the city’s cosmopolitan ambiance. Nearby, images of seafaring activities from the 1800s are evoked at the recently-restored Victoria and Alfred Waterfront. Magnificent Cape Town is justifiably famous as the “Mother City” of South Africa.

Day 79 Friday April 3, 2015 Cape Town, South Africa (overnight)

With majestic Table Mountain as a backdrop, Cape Town occupies one of the most dramatic locations in the world. Its eclectic mix of architectural styles reflects the tastes and dictates of the past, in tandem with the 20^th century’s more functional demands. Edwardian and Victorian buildings have been meticulously preserved and there are several outstanding examples of Cape Dutch architecture. Cobble-stoned streets, mosques and the flat-roofed pastel houses of the Malay Quarter showcase the city’s cosmopolitan ambiance. Nearby, images of seafaring activities from the 1800s are evoked at the recently-restored Victoria and Alfred Waterfront. Magnificent Cape Town is justifiably famous as the “Mother City” of South Africa.

Day 80 Saturday April 4, 2015 Cape Town, South Africa

With majestic Table Mountain as a backdrop, Cape Town occupies one of the most dramatic locations in the world. Its eclectic mix of architectural styles reflects the tastes and dictates of the past, in tandem with the 20^th century’s more functional demands. Edwardian and Victorian buildings have been meticulously preserved and there are several outstanding examples of Cape Dutch architecture. Cobble-stoned streets, mosques and the flat-roofed pastel houses of the Malay Quarter showcase the city’s cosmopolitan ambiance. Nearby, images of seafaring activities from the 1800s are evoked at the recently-restored Victoria and Alfred Waterfront. Magnificent Cape Town is justifiably famous as the “Mother City” of South Africa.