Started the day frantically trying to find a rapid PCR test so I can get back into the US. My plan was to go to a clinic about 20 minutes away, get the test, then spend the day exploring more of Simon’s Town and relaxing. Unfortunately when I got to the clinic they said they only did rapid antigen tests!
My driver called around until we found something. We went, but then there was more confusion when they said they would get the results to me by 6… no 6:30… probably 7… maybe really 6. Seriously, they kept giving me different times. I took the test, but didn’t have confidence.
Oh, did I mention the driver was a racist, misogynistic, bigot who kept telling very negative stories? Well he was. I was glad to get away from him.
So I went to the airport and put my luggage in storage, then found an Uber and went to another testing site that said it would have 2 hour turnaround for “Express PCR.”
Two tests. I just hoped one would work.
The 2 hour turnaround was exactly that. (And the first testing site really did take until 6. I was already through security at the airport by then.)
In the meantime I had about 8 hours to kill, so I went back to the waterfront.
Found something new, Coke Zero Sugar Zero Caffeine:
Had to buy more sunscreen because mine was in my luggage at the airport:
Had my last lunch of seafood:
Went to the aquarium:
Where they were feeding penguins:
Then wandered around a bit before finding some shade in front of a cricket match being projected on a giant screen:
Caught an Uber to the airport next to a Lego store (with some great sets in it… I didn’t buy any):
Now my bags are checked, security and passport control are cleared, and I’m waiting in the British Airways lounge (United doesn’t have a lounge here, but has a deal with BA).
I’ll schedule this to post at 10pm South African time — roughly like the others — while I’m in the air heading home.
Travel 