Soccer World Cup 2010 in South Africa

So South Africa got the 2010 World Cup bid. Now what?

As a South African, the initial reaction was joy as this was probably the easiest way (read here:cheapest) way to view the soccer spectacle in person in my life time.

The announcement came out months ago and yet we have yet to break ground on the proposed 4 new stadiums - even the Germans are saying they will lend a hand - the "poor Africa sister syndrome" all over again. So some concerns over getting the process sorted out and looking decent against the Germany event.....

But in Africa we say "Africa time" and it does get done eventually - lets just prey the deadline can be met and FIFA can be satisfied - would be embarressing to have the bid whipped away for internal red tape or greed!

I think some clarification is useful to read from a 'man on ground-zero' perspective:

• SA is the land of contrast like most 1st World countries. Serious mink and even more serious maneur! Book yourself in a hotel (reservations are filling up fast already) close to major centres.

• SA is the land for golf, beach, medical procedures, wild game viewing - ignore all else but try to combine the event with these activites if you can afford to.

• SA has serious crime - the stats say it is coming down but as a citizen right now, we are concerned about armed hijackers, daily rapes and murders. In Africa life is cheap. rule is - give them what they want or get shot every time. So come in a group, read as much as you can about your local hotel area and learn where not to be.

• You will love the climate! - Although the event is middle of our winter! Expect cold nights (zero in places) but great blue skies for the days. (12 to 20 degrees centigrade)

• The general population are friendly - we love tourists and their cash injection to our industries.
• The lifestyle - best on offer for the price - the only drawback is the crime formulae which complicates the decision to stay here.

• The infrastructure - do not mistake SA with the rest of Africa - we have the best roads, the best food, good internet connectivity and briliant cellphone corporates to ensure you are never too far from your loved ones at home.

In summary then, know where you are staying to remain safe.

ENJOY THE FLAVOURS OF LIFE WE HAVE TO OFFER. SO PUT DOWN YOUR DEPOSIT (YOU KNOW YOU WIL SPENT IT ON BOOZE,CANCER STICKS AND EXPENSIVE RESTAURANTS ANYWAY!) NOW!

5 phrases to learn:

Lekker - Afrikaans for Awesome!

Yebo - Zulu for yes

Ja - Yes

Howszit! Jewish hello (still plenty coining it here)

Cheers! - Goodbye

Roll on May 2010!