New York, Reprise

March 31, 2010
Johannesburg, South Africa

On the way to the airport, I had one of many conversations about race in the New South Africa with my driver, an Afrikaaner dude. You know that whatever is to follow "I'm not a racist, but..." is going to be objectionable!

I arrived at the airport early and spent some time having my luggage inspected by the VAT officials. I also considered having my bags shrink-wrapped (it's Johannesburg, after all), but I didn't bother. I won't cry if my rooibos tea, rusks, peri-peri sauce or other silly items are pinched (although J. might!).

As you can see, South Africa is totally excited to host the World Cup; these countdown signs were everywhere in the airport. I hope it goes smoothly and the country makes a bundle from the World Cup, but I'm definitely glad I won't be around. Football fans who smell of vomit are not my favorite peeps!

After a leisurely lunch at Mugg & Bean, I passed through security and submitted my VAT receipts at the office. I got R450 back (60 USD)! Wonderful! Then I realized that I only had an hour to spend my windfall before I had to proceed to my gate. Where can you easily spend R450? Duty Free of, course! I loaded up with Amarula chocolates, Blance de blance and sherry and hightailed it to my gate, where I endured three extra security screenings, a special treat from for all passengers bound for the US.

Seventeen hours later, I landed in New York. JFK, in all its shabby glory, never looked so good! And it is wonderful to be home!