GLCM Blog Post: Arrive in Johannesburg – 01/07/2024

We arrived in Johannesburg around 6:00 PM local time. We were greeted by a pleasant temperature of 66 degrees Fahrenheit. The flight arrived earlier than it was scheduled. After we gathered with our group, we made our way into customs. During a bathroom break, the guys in the group took a picture while holding the CEE Illinois Flag.

Shortly after, we were introduced to Jon Wilson who would be our local expert and would accompany us during the full duration. We were split in half and transported to the hotel in a long van. We placed our bags in an extra compartment attached to the van. We found out that the staring wheel of vehicles is on the left side where the passage seat would normally be in the United States and the lane in which a person should drive is inverted compared to the united States. We traveled out of the airport and into Sandton where our hotel was located.

While filling up the van at a gas station, Jon pointed out a bird on a tree known as the Grey Lourie or grey go-away-bird. This bird is native to the regional and gets its name from it call which sounds as it is saying “Go away”. Unfortunately, we did not get to hear this bird’s call today. The plant life in Africa is green and lush with trees scarred throughout and the landscape had some small hills, but it appears mostly flat. Once we arrived at Protea Hotel Balalaika, we were greeted in a room where we received important information about the hotel and our key cards for our rooms. The staff also provided a chicken wrap with some fries and a drink for dinner.

Jon also informed us more about our itinerary and some information about the local area. He mentioned how he feels breakfast is enjoyable and highly recommends that we all get some tomorrow. Jon also taught us a little bit about the local culture, and he explained how people tend to be friendly and often smile and talk to strangers. He taught us about a common greeting in Johannesburg where people will often greet a group by saying “Sawubona” or “Sawubone” for an individual. This means “I see you” in Zulu. He also said that we should respond with “Ngikhona” which means “I am here” in Zulu. We then headed to our rooms. The hotel is larger and contains several sections. Some areas are also connected with bridges that go outside the building. In the center of the hotel there is a green space with an outdoor pool.

We were spilt into pairs for our rooms. Each had two twin sizes beds, a desk, a television and a window. The bathroom had both a bathtub and a shower. We had our luggage delivered into our rooms. We also ate dinner in our rooms while we unpacked.

As we wrapped up the day, we explored the hotel and relaxed. Finally, we prepare to rest as we have to meet at lobby by 8:30am tomorrow to go on our leisurely bike tour of the city.

Blog by Luis Vasconez