I decided to spend my day in Lenasia today (the township where I am living) partially because the plans I had got nixed.
It was one of the first days I got to explore by myself. This has seldom happened for two reasons: 1) it is not safe, especially for a foreigner who is unaware of the area and 2) because the public transportation system is virtually nonexistent/bad. Luckily, I have been busy most of the days since I have been here and have been lucky enough to get rides with others.
Lens (is it Lens or Lenz?) is a culturally diverse area and reminds me of a small Joburg. It is busy during most of the day, especially now because students are on holiday (students go to school year round and are given time off four times out of the year — now is one of those times). People sell food on the street and everyday there are mini flea markets set up throughout with people selling any single item you can imagine.
When I walk around people look at me funny. Someone said “What’s up” to me today — the first time I have heard that since I have been here and said “American!” Not sure how he had any idea I was from the States, but sometimes I forget. Some people I have met thought I was from the UK, or Australia — a few people actually thought I was South African. I stick out in areas like Lens and Joburg … and pretty much all of the areas I have spent time in because I am one of the few whites in the area. This does not make me feel uncomfortable because I am used to such diversity, but it always makes me question: are they looking at me differently because I am white or because they can tell I am a foreigner?
Anyway….I decided to grab an orange (seriously THE BEST orange ever) and a lolipop from one lady and some chicken from another. It is things like this that make my trip fun, it is different than what I am used to.
I spoke to someone today who told me they take S. Africa for granted. As someone who is not from the area I cannot afford to do that.
The photos below are of some tasty chicken I bought for lunch.
Actually think these are the best photos so far