What in the Name?!!!

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Today we ride from Alicedale to Umtata (Mthatha).

I rode today with Otto as we tried to find a route to down to the coast. Most of the roads were not paved so we opted to Port Alfred. We have coffee in Bathurst and join up with Peter, Bob, Patrick & Phebe. It starts to rain as we ride to East London. I get separated from everyone as we near East London during a miss cue on my part when Bob pulled over briefly.

I’m on my own again until I come across Peri and Ian near Butterworth. I ride on looking for a place to eat lunch and expect Peri and Ian to catch up shortly. As I ride thru Butterworth, for the first time I’m concerned that I’m riding on my own.

The shell gas station is a hub of activity. There’s an impromptu market, bus depot and in general people walking everywhere in amongst traffic. It’s unsettling to rided by on a motorcycle worth more than any of these people will ever make in a lifetime.

I have to start watching my speed as the live stock is grazing awfully close the road. A couple of times I almost pick up dinner (lamb) and at one point I come across a bull wandering across the road. It turns and looks at me as I approach and that’s when I realize I’m wearing my red rainsuit! Fortunately today I don’t have to learn matador and manage to speed away safely.

I stop for gas in Idutywa and am concerned I can’t find Umtata. I soon realize that Umtata is the same as Mthatha! I catch up to Peri and Ian as we ride into town. We miss the turn off for the Holiday Inn and ride through downtown Mthatha. I can only describe the scene as chaos as traffic and pedestrians intermingle through the streets. I was surprised chickens and goats weren’t part of the mix.

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Comments

[Jeske]

Umtata - Mthatha
It is not that bad once you get used to it. Yes, it is busy but at least it doesn't lack atmosphere. I am spending a few months here doing research and I find that even though I have to look for it, the city has got everything you need (and more)..

[2]

Your Right!
You are absolutely right Jeske, "It is not that bad once you get used to it." I'm writing this blog for my family and friends who are have a western perspective and belief system. As you pointed out once you have submerged yourself in another culture, it all becomes normal. The point of traveling for me is to broaden my perspective of the world around us. I want to be initially shocked and surprised. For the less adventurous, they'll have to read my blog. But like yourself, there's no substitute for finding out for yourself. Good on you!!!