Welcome to Our Blog

Welcome to Our Blog
As anyone who has participated in UConn's Education Abroad in Cape Town will tell you there are no words to adequately explain the depth of the experiences, no narratives to sufficiently describe the hospitality of the people, and no pictures to begin to capture the exquisite scenery. Therefore this blog is only intended to provide an unfolding story of the those co-educators who are traveling together as companions on this amazing journey. As Resident Director of this program since 2008 it is once again my privilege and honor to accompany another group of remarkable UConn students to this place I have come to know and love.
In peace, with hope,
Marita McComiskey, PhD
(marita4peace@gmail.com)

Tuesday, March 28, 2017

Alex has decided she wants to stay here forever


Last weekend I went paragliding off of Signal Hill and it was definitely worth the wait. With the wind being such a huge factor, it is often canceled and had to be rescheduled. I don’t know whether it was an adrenaline rush or a new me, but when the pilot asked if I wanted to do tricks… I said yes! I have never been a fan of rollercoasters and have often shut down any ideas that involve drops, so this was big for me. When I paid for my pictures I was so sure that in the video, I would look terrified during the tricks but for the first time I was actually calm, and I was so impressed. Though this wasn’t something I was too worried about to begin with, I can definitely see myself becoming more fearless and its exciting.


On Monday I went to Clifton Fourth Beach with Kaitlyn, Claire, Maddy, Sara, and Shona and it was so beautiful. It was crazy how despite it being 95 degrees, the water was cold enough to instantly cool you down and numb your feet with one step.

Earlier in the day, Odon (the sand art artist) delivered my custom-made design. I cannot brag enough about this man. His work is not only stunning and unique, but he often goes the extra mile to deliver the paintings to your house. If you ever find yourself in Langa, stop by the community center and check out his artwork. I promise you’ll be amazed. 

I finally hiked Lion’s Head with Kaitlyn and Laura T at sunrise. We went on Tuesday which was a national holiday so there were TONS of people hiking with us using headlamps. I absolutely loved the hike but it was insane how hot it was at 6 am. At the top I overheard a man saying that if Lions Head existed back home, he could see himself hiking it every day. Though I may not be on that level yet, I definitely love the idea of being active outdoors. It is not only more motivating to see a gorgeous view at the top, but you are able to work more muscle groups at the same time then at the gym. You are also thinking more about the adventure then about the exercise itself! On our way down we found one of the caves and were able to climb up to it. And I know I was a little tired, but this cave had the comfiest rock seats I have ever come across as well as a great view.  I can’t wait to hike it again in the daytime and explore the rest of the caves.

I was recently talking to a good friend back home; telling him about all that I am doing here. It is easy to compare yourself to others down here, but to get an outsiders view on how spectacular my last two months have been and how much I am doing was a good reassurance. He said that I was surprising him in so many ways which was cool to hear. I literally cannot believe that its almost over. I want to stay here forever.



No comments:

Post a Comment