She Opened My Mind, She Changed Me
This story might sound strange to anyone under 50, but for those who remember the political climate of the 1980s, it might strike a chord. Learning through travel has always been one of the most valuable experiences of my life, and one moment stands out vividly—the day I met my first South African.
I was 19, spending another summer backpacking through Europe, and had just arrived at Munich station. The plan was simple: grab a few hours of sleep before catching a 5 AM train to Prague. As I settled into a quiet corner, I struck up a conversation with another traveler—long blonde hair, a confident but friendly demeanor, and an accent I couldn’t quite place. New Zealand, maybe?
A few minutes in, she introduced herself as South African.
My Perception of South Africa Before That Day
At that time, South African culture was almost entirely foreign to me. Growing up in 1980s Australia, my exposure to South African history was limited to news reports about apartheid and stories of economic and political sanctions. The country was painted in stark black and white—a place of oppression, segregation, and injustice.
As a sports fan, I associated South Africa travel with controversy—English cricketers and rugby players who ignored boycotts to earn fortunes on “rebel tours” while their careers elsewhere were finished. I had never seen a South African movie, heard a South African artist on the radio, or been exposed to any kind of positive representation of the country outside of the anti-apartheid movement.
I vaguely knew about Nelson Mandela, largely due to a hit song that had made its way onto the charts. His name was a rallying cry, but beyond the fact that he was imprisoned and a figurehead of resistance, I had little understanding of his struggle or the people fighting alongside him.
That song was “Nelson Mandela”—also known as “Free Nelson Mandela”—an anti-apartheid anthem released in 1984 by the British band The Specials (under the name Special AKA). It was energetic, defiant, and impossible to ignore. At the time, I didn’t fully grasp the depth of its message, but I knew it was about a man who had become a symbol of justice and resistance in South Africa.
And then there was that infamous Spitting Image song “(I’ve Never Met) A Nice South African” from 1986—satirical, biting, and catchy, but reinforcing a one-dimensional stereotype of South Africans during apartheid. Featured on the B-side of “The Chicken Song,” which topped the UK charts for three weeks, it never charted independently but became infamous for its controversial message and was reported in-depth on the ABC (Australian Broadcasting Commission).
Was South Africa dangerous? The news certainly made it seem that way. The South African police were portrayed as brutal enforcers of apartheid, while places like Sun City—a luxury resort famous for gambling and high-profile international performers—seemed like symbols of excess and inequality.
Breaking the Stereotype in a Train Station
For the first few minutes of our chat, I found myself watching this girl, wondering how she fit into the narrative I had always known. Could someone like her be part of that system?
But as we talked, something shifted.
She told me about her life—her father was an apple and pear farmer, she was working hard to get into university, and she had spent months saving for this backpacking trip. She spoke passionately about the world, sharing travel memories of places I had yet to visit and giving me tips for my upcoming trip through Austria and Italy.
And then, almost in passing, she mentioned she was part of the anti-apartheid movement.
That moment changed everything.
I had spent my entire life seeing South African cities through a narrow lens, where every white South African was complicit, yet here was someone challenging that idea in the most ordinary, human way.
How Travel Changed My Perspective
If I had never taken that trip, if I had never met that girl, I might have continued believing what I had always been told. Learning through travel has a way of breaking down walls—walls built by cultural misconceptions, by the media, by distance.
The international media played a vital role in pressuring South Africa toward change, but in doing so, they also created a dangerous oversimplification. They erased the stories of those who resisted from within, those who fought for a different future, and those who, like this young traveler, were eager to engage with the world beyond their country’s borders.
Meeting people while traveling teaches lessons that history books often fail to. It’s in the conversations with strangers on overnight trains, in hostels, or in city squares that the world becomes less about politics and more about human connection.
Travel isn’t just about places—it’s about people. And on that night in Munich, I learned that South Africa was more than what I had been led to believe.
FAQ: Learning Through Travel & South African Culture
1. How does learning through travel help change misconceptions?
Experiencing different cultures firsthand challenges preconceived notions. By meeting locals, like my first encounter with a South African traveler, I gained insights beyond the media’s portrayal, realizing that cultures are often more diverse than stereotypes suggest.
2. What are some key aspects of South African culture that travelers should know?
South African culture is rich and diverse, blending indigenous traditions with colonial influences. From music and dance to food and history, travelers will find a melting pot of traditions, including braais (barbecues), ubuntu philosophy, and vibrant townships.
3. Is South Africa dangerous for travelers?
While South Africa travel has risks, like any country, being informed helps ensure safety. Stick to well-known areas, avoid walking alone at night, and use reputable transportation. Many travelers have safe and unforgettable experiences exploring South African cities.
4. What are some must-visit South African cities for first-time travelers?
Popular South African cities include Cape Town, with its stunning Table Mountain, Johannesburg, rich in apartheid history, and Durban, known for its beautiful beaches and Indian-influenced cuisine. Each city offers a unique perspective on the country’s past and present.
5. How did apartheid shape South Africa’s reputation internationally?
During apartheid, South Africa was isolated due to sanctions and boycotts. The world saw it as a place of racial oppression. However, many white South Africans opposed apartheid, and learning through travel helps uncover these untold stories.
6. What are some cultural misconceptions about South Africa?
Many people assume South Africa is entirely unsafe, only about safaris, or lacks modern cities. In reality, it has bustling metropolises, a diverse population, and a rich history that extends far beyond wildlife and game reserves.
7. How can travelers engage with South African history responsibly?
Visiting places like Robben Island, Apartheid Museum, and District Six Museum provides a deeper understanding of South African history. Speaking with locals, taking guided tours, and supporting ethical tourism initiatives ensure a meaningful and respectful experience.
