Depart.

Cape Town: Just to the left of the plane's wing

I departed Cape Town during the early morning hours on April 12^th. As I flew over the city I had grown to love over the past three month, I couldn’t help but feel sad! I have had the pleasure of getting to know some of the most amazing people, from all over the world!

On my flight home I reflected on how much I had learned and experienced during my visit in Cape Town.  Altogether Capetonians are very generous people. I felt so welcome at my architecture internship. And I know when I choose to return to Cape Town some day; I will be welcomed back with open arms.

A special Thank you to everyone who helped make my trip possible. Whether it was financially, emotionally, spiritually, etc I truly appreciate your support! This is an experience I will continue to value for the rest of my life!!!! 

High Tea.

One of the well-known British inspired rituals in Cape Town is High Tea.

High Tea is held in different locations all over the city. I attended the Mount Nelson Hotel afternoon tea.

At this even, you first choose what tea you would like, from a large selection.  Roobios is the flavor of tea made in South Africa.

Small sandwiches, quiches, samoosas, and other savory foods are served. As well as, a wide variety of decadent mini desserts!

Tea and snacks are enjoyed at seating arrangements specific to the size of your party. Large armchairs, sofas, and occasional chairs surround a coffee table full of your tea and treats. Quiet classical piano is playing in the background.

 High tea makes for a relaxing and delicious afternoon!  

Exterior of Mount Nelson Hotel

Kirstenbosch.

Kirstenbosch is a botanical garden located about 20 minutes outside of Cape Town. The large garden is made up of hundreds of different types of plant life. The winding paths that lead you through the vegetation are embedded into a lower part of Table Mountian.

The gardens also house the summer concert series each year. The concerts are every Sunday evening during the warm months in South Africa (December - March).

Rainy day at Kirstenbosch!

Home.

3 Bishop

Observatory, Cape Town

Bedroom

I rented a room in this house for 3 months

My roommates were 5 Scandinavian students. 4 Norwegians and 1 Sweed!

The home contained 6 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, 2 lounge areas, 1 dining area, 1 kitchen, and a back patio. All enclosed by secure metal bars on the windows.

I was able to make myself comfortable here and feel at home!

Center Hall

Kitchen

Garden Route Day 3.

We made our way to Plettenberg Bay Game Reserve for a 2 hour safari. We saw so many beautiful animals such as zebras, lions, giraffs, rhinos, hippos, crocadiles, buffalo, springbok, and other deer-like animals native to South Africa.

Overall this trip will be something I will never forget. It was amazing to spend time in nature, travel outside of Cape Town, especially along with some great friends!

Garden Route Day 2.

We made our way through the beautiful town of Knysna, where we stopped for some amazing ocean views.

Then headed to the Knysna forest or "The Crags" to The Elephant Sanctuary. Here we learned about the growth and development of elephants. We also walked trunk in hand, fed, and took a ride on these beautiful creatures.

We then made our way to the Tsitsikamma forest to zipline. Our canopy tour consisted of 8 lines that ran directly above a waterfall and river.

The Big Tree in Storms River

That evening we stayed at the backpackers in Storms River. We were provided a pasta dinner, accomodation, and an outdoor bonfire. My friends and I couldn't resist sleeping outside under the magnificant display of stars!

Garden Route Day 1.

After driving several hours through green mountians we arrived at The Cango Caves. We decided to take part in the adventure tour. This entailed viewing stalactites, stalagmites, crawling through the casket, devil's chimney, and through the post box. Some of the rock formations were a difficult squeeze, but we all made it through.

Exiting The Post Box

We stayed at a backpackers that evening in the town of Wilderness. Our accomodations provided brick oven pizzas, our own room, and amazing views directly to the ocean.

A room at the Backpackers

View from the Backpackers