Running parallel with the new bridge over the N2 you will notice the old stone bridge to your left when driving eastwards.  Find the road to the old bridge and have a look at it.  I was quite impressed at the engineering skills considering the period in which it was built and the machinery available to create these types of structures.

The steel bridge built by Westwood Bailie Engineering Works from London and completed in 1879 so nearing its 150^th year soon.  Although the bridge’s length will not make the Guinness Book of Records, as it is only 0.46 kilometres long, it is still used by local farmers and pedestrians in the vicinity. 

Attempts to build a bridge over the Kei River started in 1877 when materials were shipped from London to East London and then carried by ox wagon to the site, but due to conflict with local people the building process was interrupted multiple times including the Frontier War.  From 1907 to 1917 the railway line was carried on a wooden bridge, but it washed away during a flood and thus had to be relocated to near the present day N2.

Thing was made easier for travellers.  Today there is a Shell Ultra City where you can buy your standard “garage pie” and coke and take a rest before commencing your trip on the treacherous Transkei roads. Take it slow and be on the lookout for pedestrian and stray animals.

Eventually the Kei River reaches the Indian Ocean as an estuary at Kei Mouth where you will still find a ferry transporting cars and pedestrians into rural Transkei, but more about the ferry crossing in another post.

Coordinates:  32°30’32.29″ S 27°58’48.60″ E

Altitude: 160 meters

oOo

The post YOU ARE NOW ENTERING THE TRANSKEI : THE KEI BRIDGE appeared first on TRAVELBUCKET.

This being said, it does not mean that nothing will happen to you.  South Africa is as safe as any other tourist travel destination in the world as long as you use your travel savvy.  Crime does happen anywhere in the world if you do not take care.

Being a local myself, and having travelled quite a bit in my own country and abroad, I am going to share some tips and tricks with you.

When travelling by car

• Keep all doors locked while travelling in cities and even passing through smaller towns. Your attention will be focussed on navigating and not on your surroundings at all times.  People are opportunists and will make use of the situation.
• Distances in South Africa are vast. We have petrol attendants that assist with refuelling.  Double check that the attendant fills up with the right type of fuel (diesel versus gasoline) and that all fuel caps are replaced properly before you leave the filling station.
• When you leave your vehicle in a parking lot and you cannot take your valuables with you rather keep it locked out of sight in the trunk of the vehicle. This also includes expensive jackets or tops.  The rule is simple:  no temptation=no problems!   Look out for parking attendants.
• Parking attendants are part of job creation in our country.  Make eye contact and identify the parking attendant and ask him/her to look after your vehicle.  Do not pay them upfront, but rather reimburse the attendant  on your return when everything is in order with your vehicle.
• It is best not to pick up hitch hikers. You never know what can happen.  This can spoil your whole trip if things turn out bad.

At the end of the day it is about being street wise.  Keep your eyes open and stay cool in a difficult situation – appreciate and enjoy our Rainbow Nation!

The post KEEP CALM AND TRAVEL SOUTH AFRICA! appeared first on TRAVELBUCKET.