South Africa

Vautrin · 09-20-2008, 10:44 AM

I'll be going back to South Africa in 2 weeks time. And stay there again for 4-6 months, depending on some external factors.

The country seems to be in utter political turmoil. The President has been "fired" by his own party, to make place for a guy who is on trial for his (alleged) involvement in corrupt practices. Great... and they are busy trying to avoid early elections (which are due in 6 months anyway).

ANC dumps Mbeki, moves to 'heal rift' - Mail & Guardian Online: The smart news source

ANC plan to topple Mbeki - Mail & Guardian Online: The smart news source

Star

Many people feel a one-party dictatorship is in the making. And given the events that have unfolded since the ANC conference in December 2007, such claims cannot easily be dismissed.

Judging by the state of affairs, it seems increasingly unlikely that the country will be stable enough to host the 2010 World Cup Football (Soccer for the Americans). The problems seem to increase each and every month.

I don't expect a boring time. It will probably be one of the most exciting places in the world, but ya ... not exactly for the most positive reasons ...

TKDLady · 09-20-2008, 11:13 AM

Good luck Vautrin. I hope you will be able to keep up with the posting here. Keep safe while you are there.

Vautrin · 09-20-2008, 12:26 PM

I'll try to.

It should be very, very interesting what happens in the next week.

Luba · 09-20-2008, 02:07 PM

You'll sure be missed, as always!

I'll try to speak unselfishly, to say 'have a WONDERFUL time, you deserve it!

Vautrin · 09-20-2008, 03:42 PM

It will be hectic, but that means you'll be well-informed of the Local Madness there.

Luba · 09-20-2008, 03:44 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Vautrin

It will be hectic, but that means you'll be well-informed of the Local Madness there.

I know it's EX-TRE-MELY selfish of me to ask, but, just so I can be prepared, how often will you be posting

.....or not?

Waternymph · 09-20-2008, 03:57 PM

take care have safe time, be alert you will be missed

IvyRose · 09-20-2008, 06:29 PM

Goodness Vautrin. Will you be dodging bullets while there? I sure hope not. What a mess.

Good luck and happy travels.

Vautrin · 09-20-2008, 06:58 PM

It should be fine, but that is assuming the situation does not turn into anarchy. Right now, it seems the chances of that are slim, but it does not take more than a few unexpected events to change that.

As for dodging bullets, Johannesburg, SA, is the murder capital of the world. Makes even the likes of Washington D.C. seem like a playground.

Vautrin · 09-28-2008, 09:56 AM

Leaving tomorrow for Amsterdam.

Luba · 09-28-2008, 10:16 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Vautrin

Leaving tomorrow for Amsterdam.

Have a GOOD trip, Vautrin! I hope you will be able to keep us posted on how you are doing!

TKDLady · 09-28-2008, 10:28 AM

Good luck Vautrin. Hey I may get a business trip to Amsterdam one of these days. Will I like it there?

Vautrin · 09-28-2008, 11:41 AM

Really depends on what you are into.

We have "Coffeeshops" (for weed) in which it is not allowed to smoke (!). There is a sex district, which in 5 years time, probably does not have a single sex worker, and more.

Best to come in spring (winters in Amsterdam are not that pleasant).