Spain and Holland: Who would have thought?
Spain and the Netherlands in the World Cup final! Who could have ever foreseen such a thing? Well, as it turns out, I did. On May 30, I was in Lesotho, enjoying a three-hour hike that departed from the Malealea Lodge. Our guide, Molefi Thejane, asked me who I thought would win the World Cup. It’s a question I normally try to avoid — “Who the hell knows?” is... Read More
A glimpse of Mandela’s gift
CAPE TOWN — The man next to me on the train was peering intently at a vacation booklet. “Safari Africa,” it said, offering trips to neighboring countries like Botswana and Namibia. It seemed a little incongruous at first. He was black, looked to be in his 30’s, working class, and, I thought, a Cape Town local. Everyone I know who’s been on a safari is white. The idea that... Read More
A South African takes on the vuvuzela
“They need to get rid of the vuvuzelas — they are ruining the World Cup.” The words surprised me, coming as they did from my cab driver, a proud supporter of Bafana Bafana named Treasure. He wasn’t interested in cultural colonialism, foreigners miffed at the buzzing that accompanies their television broadcasts, or a preference for singing over the blowing of... Read More
Dear England —
I think it’s time we talked. I’m not saying this to wind you up or to rub your noses in yesterday’s result. I like you guys; actually, I think most soccer supporters here in America look up to you, in a way. That whole “special relationship” our governments have? I think it extends to football, too. But I have to say this: England, get over yourselves.... Read More
Talking about the spirit of South Africa with musician Vusi Mahlasela
When England hosted the European championships in 1996, the phrase “football’s coming home” was on everyone’s lips thanks to a song called “Three Lions,” which quickly became the unofficial anthem for the tournament. This year’s World Cup means humanity is coming home to the mother continent, Africa, and one musician whose songs will be sung is Vusi Mahlasela. Mahlasela,... Read More