Top 10 Tuesday: Things I miss about South Africa

Last week, I posted the Top 10 things I love about living in Taiwan. Although I have a great life here, there are some days that I don't want anything more than to be home in South Africa. Here are the top 10 things I miss about home:

1. My family

Left to right: My dad, Leon. My sister, Lynette. My mom, Suzette. My brother, Werner. Me. My brother, Morne. (2011)

Of course I miss my family more than anything else. Even though I stay in contact with them on Skype, Facebook and email, I just long to be in their presence and to give them big hugs. It's not often that my entire family are together at home in South Africa, as one of my brothers and my sister live in Dubai, U.A.E, and my oldest brother works on cruise ships around the world. When we are all in South Africa at home, it is the happiest of times.

2. My friends

Having lunch and drinks on a wine farm in Stellenbosch, South Africa. (2011)

I have wonderful friends here in Taiwan, but man, do I miss my friends back home. We all grew up together and had so many great times. I hate missing out on their birthdays and weddings, and think about them every single day.

3. My pets

Left: Jessy (17)
Right: Jenny (18)

My dogs, both very old now, still live with my parents. They are both basically totally blind and deaf, but my parents take such good care of them. I miss them so much, especially since our Skype dates have gotten fewer, because they can't see or hear me anymore.

4. The food

Droewors and biltong

Ah, the food. Braaivleis (BBQ meat), braaibroodjies (BBQ sandwiches), koeksisters, biltong (jerkey), droewors and the list goes on. I especially miss certain restaurants like Spur, Wimpy, Steers and Ocean Basket. Okay, I need to stop because I'm drooling over my keyboard...

5. Afrikaans

Even though I do have friends here in Taiwan that speak Afrikaans, I miss hearing it everywhere. I love being in South Africa and being able to speak Afrikaans to almost everyone.

6. Braai

I miss everything about braais. Having drinks around the fire, chilling out with friends, smelling like smoke, and, of course, enjoying the delicious food afterwards.

7. The weather

Arniston beach, South Africa (2011)

As summer approaches in Taiwan, I start to miss South Africa even more. I grew up with lovely summers; blue skies, fresh air and dry heat. The summers in Taiwan aren't quite that enjoyable with it's high humidity and temperatures.

8. Natural beauty & animals

Lion at Cango Wildlife Ranch, Oudtshoorn, South Africa (2010)

From all the countries I've ever been to, South Africa will always be the most beautiful  to me. Every beach is perfect, the landscapes are magnificent, and don't forget about the wild animals roaming the streets. Just kidding.

9. The people

I miss the spontaneity of South Africans; they laugh out loud, they talk out loud, and most are extremely friendly, and generally know how to have a good time.

10. Variety of cultures

South Africa is not called "The Rainbow Nation" for nothing. I miss the variety of cultures and the mix of people living together in one country.

I can't wait to visit South Africa again next year!