Day 2: Experiencing Thunder Storms at Lebo’s Soweto Backpackers

September 6th – Soweto Hwy

Well let us just say… TODAY held a lot of firsts for us!

– First African hail storm
– First Township blackout
– First Johannesburg flood
– First Soweto Backpackers rain leak

Not that we had this in mind upon arrival… But we must admit it was pretty entertaining! Maria and Lebo were incredible, very welcoming, enthusiastic and humorous when it came to surviving all these ‘firsts’ as Canadians – haha.

Still trying to adjust to this 6 hour time difference, but we are doing pretty well at the moment. You can’t stay asleep when waking up brings more fun!

The entire night was constant thunderstorms and heavy rain. It didn’t seem to stop so we decided to hit up the Apartheid Museum in Johannesburg. We took a couple photos (like the one in this blog) though the staff weren’t so happy and the cameras were to be put away for the duration of the tour. Geeez it’s been 2 days and we’re already getting into trouble! The museum was very informative to say the least but was absolutely amazing when it came to videos, detail and creativity. The best way to learn history – through traveling. We have learned so much about Nelson Mandela and the Apartheid already and cannot wait to learn more!

After the museum came the HAIL – yes you Canadians, it’s true… It does in fact snow/hail in Africa. We stopped for a bite to eat at an all American restaurant and headed to the African Craft Market. Similar to all other international markets, we had a blast *attempting* to bargain.

There was no end to the rain so we went back and spent some quality time at Lebos Soweto Backpackers. Almost as fun as missioning around Joburg in the pouring rain. Lebo built up a fire, we listened to reggae all night long (yeaaaah, VYBZ KARTEL) and had the most delicious dinner. Seasoned fish, rice and salad followed by my favorite, dessert! Pineapple pie! We have never heard of it but it was the most delicious dessert. Now let’s see if we can recreate this at home? Likely not, the cooks at Lebo’s Soweto Backpackers are great, me being a very picky vegetarian, they always made sure that the meal was something I would like…. and boy did I ever!

If you are interested in experiencing the Soweto culture at it’s best, no other suggestions but LEBOS SOWETO BACKPACKERS!

Want to see more of my South African adventure? Here’s is a wrap up of all the wonderful places I stayed with Hostelling International: A Huge Thank You