Discovering South Africa

Rainbow nation... Cape of Good Hope... last piece of land... safaris... Nelson Mandela...
So many thoughts come to your mind when you talk about South Africa.

Today I did a series of amazing interviews with people who are connected to South Africa in some way or the other on "Eyes on travel" - a special episode for CNNNEWS18, about discovering that amazing country.

From the one and only Jonty Rhodes, who spoke about all the adventure sports that he's experienced - abseiling, paragliding, sky diving and bungee jumping - to actress & film maker Pooja Bhatt, who spoke about the short period that she lived in Cape Town on her own and how she has also filmed there.
I also spoke with the South African minister of tourism, Derek Hanekom, about his views on safety and the India-South Africa connect, while Go Beyond Travel's Shantanu Chand shared his tips on making the best of a safari excursion in SA.
And finally Roxanne Bamboat (The Tiny Taster) told us what's the best thing to eat and where's the best place to shop while Hanneli Slabber, India Head of South Africa tourism cleared my doubts about visas, vaccinations and flights.

While I did get to see some glimpses of SA on the AVs we played out, this discussion has now made me eager to head there and also helped me ready a rough itinerary for my adventure holiday.

As we closed the show, Hanneli and I spoke about Robben Island and getting a brief glimpse into the life of by Nelson Mandela.
I was moved by what she said - a trip to Robben Island isn't just a discovery of the history of South Africa; it's a journey of self discovery. Looking out.towarfs Cape Town from in between the barred windows of the prison, you get a sense of what Mandela must have felt and you're overwhelmed by the purpose, the grit and the determination of that great man. When you've had a glimpse into the lives led by these prisoners, you return home saying "I can do better. Whatever my situation, whatever my place in the world, I can do better."

Catch the episode very soon on CNNNEWS18. YouTube link coming soon.

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