If you are like me, you regard long weekends as sacred things. It’s a time to rest, spend time
with family and, of course, explore a little.
This past long weekend I decided to take an unplanned trip inland to visit family. Usually around Easter time half the population flock to the coastal areas to lap
up the last bit of summer sun. I, on the
other hand, ended up on a last-minute flight to Bloemfontein. Yes, that Afrikaans place in the middle of
South Africa that’s butt-paralyzingly cold in winter and hellishly hot in
summer.
Airport Shuttle dropped me at Cape Town International Airport and I got to experience a Prius for the very first time and wasn't disappointed (this Eco-friendly vibe isn't bad at all)! As I waited patiently to board the orange fruit plane for the umpteenth time, I noticed my fellow passengers and knew it was going to be an
interesting experience; it was a cultural kaleidoscope of note. The plane was packed with eccentric looking varsity students, business men, babies and a few boere (judging from their dress-code).
I witnessed mothers discipline
their unruly children loudly...in Afrikaans...in a confined space; this had me praying for
Valium to rain down from the overhead compartment by the handfuls. Thankfully, the flight itself was a pleasant experience…unlike
other carriers, they allow you to use your tablets and other tech in-flight and
this kept me distracted for a good hour!
Upon arrival, we headed out to Loch Logan Waterfront (yes,
Bloem has a “waterfront”) for brunch at a gorgeous contemporary/artisanal
deli called Picnic where I had Eggs Benedict with salmon, fresh rocket and the richest
hollandaise sauce you could imagine…it was phenomenal! They sell the most delectable home/hand-made breads, cakes, cured meats and food goodies...none of that iffy commercial stuff!
It would be a cardinal sin to compare this “waterfront”
to the V & A we all love so dearly here in the Cape, but it has water nonetheless. Thick, green, slimy, foamy & fishy water
(I’m not even sure if it still qualifies as water but let’s leave that for the
local authorities to decide).
Overall my weekend was pleasant, uneventful and consisted of eating (a lot), something the friendly locals sure know how to do!
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| * Bloemfontein Airport & Loch Logan Waterfront * |
Written by: Christine Kleyn
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