Why study English in Cape Town?
Welcome to the Rainbow Nation! South Africa is one of the most beautiful and culturally diverse countries to study in! The Cape of South Africa is believed to have been the first place inhabited by humans over 42,000 years ago. South Africa has emerged from a long troubled history of oppression and apartheid to become a proud cosmopolitan nation; uniting European and African influences and traditions.
South Africa was discovered by the Portuguese, colonized by the British and later became an industrial centre for the Dutch. South Africa gained independence in 1910, when only the rights of white people were recognized. Apartheid laws were imposed in 1948, and were only lifted in 1994, following the release of Nelson Mandela four years earlier.
South Africa encompasses a variety of ethnic groups, producing a rich culture and cuisine. It is said that one may eat out twice a day for upwards of five years and never have the same menu twice. There are 13 recognized languages; English is the common language, but many South Africans also speak one of the 11 African dialects such as Afrikaans; a language derived from Dutch.
The landscape is as diverse as its people; South Africa boasts mountains, a spectacular coast, wine lands and natural reserves, home to "the big five": the elephant, the lion, the leopard, the rhinoceros and the wilderbees. If you need to remember them, just check your bank notes! South Africa has great rural areas as well as sprawling cities, such as the capital, Johannesburg. South Africans are sports fanatics and are fiercely proud of their national teams; whether it is cricket, rugby, or football. South Africa is an increasingly popular destination for studying english, recently voted to be the top tourist destination on the African continent, also thanks to being a successful host city for the FIFA World Cup.
While studying in South Africa, you will have the opportunity to experience the varied historical, cultural and vibrant ways of life. Whatever your expectations, South Africa is sure to surpass them.
