Taxi bus

Last weekend, we learned the ins and outs of public transportation in South Africa. To get a ride into town in only a buck and takes about 45 min, depending on how many stops the driver makes. There are several hand signals that are essential for smooth navigation.

First of all, there are just tons of people on the roads at all times. People are always looking for rides (free, or in a taxi).

The first hand signal is with your pointer finger pointed down. This means that you just need a local ride.

The second, is your pointer finger pointed up. That means that you want to go to "town." If you put your finger up, but are going to a town that is not on the main road, you must make a motion with your hand in the direction that the road turns to your destination.

Got it?

I have also seen a thumbs down, and a "flapping of the hand" I am not sure what those mean exactly, but I am sure it is complicated.

So, we are in the taxi headed into the big city. The first thing that you see on the van is a sign that says "Maximum passenger load 16" We learned that was merely a suggestion when the driver picked up our 21st passenger. We were crammed in the back jamming to some sweet African beats. Luckily it wasnt stifingly hot that day, but those trips to town could get painful in the weeks to come.