Friday, October 30, 2009

Melrose House

Built in 1886, Melrose house is now a museum. It became a famous landmark as it was requisitioned by Lord Roberts (a British field marshall) when the British invaded Pretoria in 1900 during the Boer war (1899 to 1902). He then used this house as his headquarters and conducted the strategy of the British forces during the remainder of the Anglo Boer war.

The Peace treaty of Vereeniging marking the end of the war was signed at this house on the 31st May 1902.

Saturday, October 24, 2009

Welcome

Burgers park not far from the city center. This park provides a pleasant environment with a splendid array of flowers and large lawns to relax during lunch time.

Thursday, October 22, 2009

Soccer Fever

Once again the city is cloaked in purple. Jakaranda City is one of the nick names given to Pretoria. Many of the streets are lined with Jacaranda trees giving a bright purple and pituresque look as far a the eye can see. In South Africa the name is spelt with a 'K' although I believe the correct spelling uses a 'C'. The reason for using 'K' can probably be attributed to the Afrikaans adaptation.

South Africa will be hosting the FIFA soccer world cup next year and preparations appear to be on track. The Telkom communications tower, which is a prominent land mark in the city, is sporting a large soccer ball. Loftus Versefeld, a stadium nearby, will be hosting a number of the matches.


Soccer fever

Monday, October 5, 2009

Bird's eye view

A new way of watching a Cricket match. These spectators were able to watch the match between India and Pakistan while being suspended from a crane. At least this way you get a good seat with and uninhibited view of the match.

Thursday, August 27, 2009

African wildlife art work

The detail and work that has gone into this mural is quite fascinating. It was painted on a wall in one of the industrial parks in Silverton which is in the north eastern side Pretoria. There are several murals depicting different scenes of African wildlife like this one.

Tuesday, August 25, 2009

OR Tambo Airport

The newly completed inside of the section of the OR Tambo airport near the international arrivals section. The airport has undergone extensive upgrading and renovation in anticipation for the increase in the number of travelers to South Africa. It has also been done in preparation for the 2010 FIFA world cup to be hosted in South Africa next year.

Sunday, August 23, 2009

snakes 'n ladders fun


Fun in the park near Zoo lake in Johannesburg. These children were having great fun on a pleasant and warm August Sunday. Although it is still winter in South Africa the days are getting warmer with the nights still being a bit cold.

This snakes 'n ladders set is right in the middle of a children's playground where the can have fun while their parents look on and enjoy the afternoon in the park.