A fond farewell.....

Today as we take off from Johannesburg to Singapore, we reflect on the last day of our stay and the journey it has been during the 2010 Fifa World Cup. The last day was a reasonably sombre one with everyone almost exhausted from the constant “on the go” type lifestyle. We said goodbye to our new mates Thelma and Louise and began the arduous task of repacking the luggage. Ok, well Mark and I did, Kim and Janet were very hesitant to even consider it....or was that the other way around?

At lunchtime our South African friend Sifiso came in to Durban to spend some more time with us before we left the country. So of course where better to go than the markets! Mmmm.....more shopping. With Sifiso in tow, off we head to the Essenwood markets which is located in the more upmarket area of the Durban hills. It had some magnificent local art sculptures, paintings and handmade jewellery and gifts. Even I must admit, that there was a large amount of items that would be more than welcomed into our home if it wasn’t for the fact we didn’t have a jumbo to ourselves for the flight back to Australia.

From Essenwood the touring party made their way back to Florida rd for a bite to eat and refreshments. For Sifiso, it was his first introduction to Pizza and I am reasonably sure we may have a convert. He does tell me however that Kim’s ravioli was much much nicer and he would love to learn how to make such a dish. Of course, I told him to give me a call anytime!

The afternoon announced the first round of 16 match of the 2010 world cup with Australia’s old arch enemy Uruguay facing off against the South Koreans. For me the Uruguayans were far too good for the Koreans throughout the period of the game, however it took several close opportunities and a cracking second goal to put the game to rest.

From there we bid fair well to Sifiso. Outside of the never ending supply of football, this meeting was one of the clear highlights for me. The young lad was so knowledgeable and friendly and yet due to pure lack of opportunity and the way of life for millions of South Africans, he may never ever even get the chance to put any of his great knowledge to use. He did come across however as one very determined young gentleman, so it will not surprise me if he manages to make his way further in the final path of which he chooses. Luckily with someone in the group whom manages to understand internet and I.T, we were prompted to set up an email account for him to stay in contact with us, and we all hope to stay in touch with his journey of life.

Tonight was the second round of 16 match featuring our fellow group D members in Ghana against the mob that managed to beat us in a friendly prior to the world cup and then consider themselves to be on top of the world. Along with billions of African’s, the Aussies jumped on the Ghanaian bandwagon and prayed to the footballing gods that the U.S would come back down to earth with a thunderous bang. And they did....I don’t need to say anymore! It does however begin the what if’s now for the Australian team as Ghana now progress to the quarter final of the world stage with a real possibility of going to the last 4 of the tournament. Good luck to them I say, I really couldn’t be happier for the African nation and their people to see one of the African teams succeed.

So with bags packed and a 3 am departure, off we trek on another long and arduous bus ride back to Joburg. The 7 hour journey gave us time to look back at the wonderful memories and friendships forged. For me the world cup on two occasions has been more than just the football pinnacle, but the chance to experience a different culture and lifestyle with the people of 32 other nations. From the football colour and spectacles, to the honesty and innocence of our gracious hosts, South Africa will forever hold a special place in all of our hearts. Even talking to the locals, they believe that the world cup has most definitely influenced the experience for the visitors. However just like them, we all hope that the vibe and improved city facilities long after the world cup can continue to be maintained, for this not necessarily fortunate but beautiful race of people. Ayoba!
Hide the credit cards....we’re off to Singapore!