A Trip across the Kei normally fills me with excitement, but also with dread. I have to take the N2 to that part of the world at least three times a year, but mostly more.
The excitement is seeing the beautiful scenery the Transkei has to offer. Damn, that place is beautiful. Then of course its hills, the river, the valley and the people.
The dread of course is its capital, Mthatha. That city is an assault on all of one’s sense, leaving me senseless. Too much noise, too many smells, too many people, cars… And those potholes! The list goes on.
It’s like I’m unable to function properly while I’m in the city. And don’t get me started on their animals. Strays in the city; cows, donkey and horses on the main roads. Transkei robots, they call them. Drive slow – accidents aplenty in that part of the world.
But drive out of the city, less than 10 km’s and it all becomes worth it. Those rolling hills, dotted with the colorful houses. Rural life – friendly people – typically South African.
The Mbashe river cutting through the hills – a photographer or artist’s paradise.
I understand why Nelson Mandela and Bantu Holomisa love this place.
I’ve travelled most of this country of our – along the west and east coast – in the interior, the Namaqualand. I’ve seen the Augrabies in flood and the majestic Drakensberg. The Orange river mouth and Richtersveld - all silently boasting their own beauty – and the Transkei, which I love to hate is among my top ten.
Ai Meneer Hendrix.....jy neem my reguit soontoe....en sommer na al die ander plekke....dankie.....ek was nou 'n "Office chair tourist".....lolol
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