Nearly one week ago, Orlando Stadium hosted the biggest soccer jam session where headlining artists like Lira, the legendary Hugh Masekela, Freshly Ground, Alicia Keyes and K’naan shared center stage for the once-in-a-life time opportunity to welcome the world to South Africa and the continent of Africa, at the 2010 FIFA World Cup Kick-off Concert.

On the eve of the world’s most celebrated sporting event a seaof over 30,000  fans crowded every inch of the stadium to catch glimpse of a dynamic slate of popular international and African artists like Shakira, the Black Eyed Peas, BLK JS , the Parlatones and John Legend, among others.

Artists like Big Nuz played to the heart of the crowd with the hit kwaito song, Umlilo, while the Black Eyed Peas rocked out to the ir number one party anthem, “I’ve Got A Feeling.”

When Cape Town rooted group, Freshly Ground hit the stage with sultry Columbian songstress Shakira the crowd went wild as they performed the uplifting ballad, Waka Waka.  Somalian-born artist, K’naan was also a big hit. He sang the official World Cup anthem, “Waving Flag,” and almost as soon as the song’s bass-driven intro cued, a chorus of thousands belted the lyrics as flags from all around world showered the skies in exhaltation.

It was a big night for South Africa, the continent of Africa and the entire world, and president Jacob Zuma and nobel-peace prize winning and the proudly South African humanitarian Archbishop Desmond Tutu spoke highly of its significance. The historic concert marked a crossing of times. From the depths of apartheid to an emerging rainbow nation, the birth place of the struggle opened its doors to the world for a harmonious celebration of the beautiful game.

The program closed with a montage of winning World Cup moments. Even though the performances had ended the crowds remained and  all were  reminded of  the sport that brought them there.

A fireworks display sealed the deal, as Orlando Stadium lit up with flames of glory. World Cup eve was a memorable  and eventful night.

… and, I was there,

Shisa Nyama, for those who don’t know is a general term used for a butcher’s that also grills meat to order on an open fire. In isiZulu it actually means “burn the meat” and for many South Africans, especially in Johannesburg and Cape Town, it has become a popular Sunday destination where friends can get together for good times and fresh eats.

Shisa Nyama at Imbizo takes its own spin on a classic tradition. It was opened in 1997 and like many emerging businesses didn’t have the luxury of sophisticated braaing equipment. An aluminium pot was originally the butcher’s only cooking tool, however with its growing popularity among neighboring community-goers the restaurant has grown in demand and size. Much like it’s name, Imbizo which means ‘gathering’ or ‘to gather’ has evolved into a central ‘‘meating” place where people from near and far meet for a welcoming atmosphere that suits the vibe of ‘ayoba.’ Beware late comers. The restaurant fills up fast. Quite often if you don’t arrive by noon, you may have trouble finding a table or seat because the crowds grow by the minute. Still it’s worth a shot to try because the food is divine, and atmosphere unmatched.

A Shisa Nyama is not your typical sit-down dinner gathering. It has all of the perks of a five star restaurant– fresh food that is seasoned to perfection, attentive staff, and quick service– but the setting itself is quite informal. Picnik tables and wooden benches, a side bar that serves hard and soft drinks, an open sink to wash your hands before you eat, and a carwash attached for those who want to detail their vehicle while they socialize. It all makes sense when you think about it. Why go everywhere if can get everything in one shop. First impressions are everything, and the thatched roofs and hut style setting certainly made me feel like I was in for an authentically South African meal.

When the heaping orders of freshly made pop (maize also known as mealie meal) were brought to the table, I knew that I was in for a treat. The short spout of rain did us all a favour by holding back the masses, the cooks were extra attentive and friendly and even let me help them turn the meat on the grill. We were all settled when the main crowd settled in. We enjoyed the well-cooked sausage, steak and chicken which we ate in traditional fashion—with our hands. The chakalaka and tomato salad added an extra kick to an already perfect meal. People seldom forget great meals, and my first Shisa Nyama exceeded every one of my expectations. Imbizo is just one of many ‘buy and braai’ butcheries where you can purchase fresh meats and have a cook prepare it for you on the spot. When I visit Cape Town in two weeks, I hope to check out Mzoli’s which has a history and reputation all its own. Keep in mind that although these popular grill spots are a meat lovers dream, they also cater to vegetarians like my friend who brought her own garden burgers which they also prepared. Shisa Nyama Sundays is a recipe for a great time. The prices are very reasonable, and the owner will actually encourage you to stay a while longer.

Game parks make for a lovely day or overnight trip. At this one in particular there was a grill area, private pool and pub specializing in local brew. My friends and I took advantage of the option to rent a jeep and the eight of us packed into a spacious safari carivan for our tour. We cruised throught the hills and valleys until we reached the predator park where lions feed.

As we approached the pride, I felt like Indiana Jones! Beasting the wild and on a milder side enjoying the beauty and excitement of nature. If you’re planning a tour, I recommend arriving at the latest by noon. Feeding time began at 1 p.m. and if you can stomach it, it’s a thrill to see the animals get ready for chow time. Our driver and tour guide was awesome. He knew everything there was to know about the park animals and had the entire caravan laughing with his jokes. And he actually put me at ease when I thought for sure, we’d end up as a part of the menu. Whe we stopped to see the lions, I didn’t imagine us being so close. The big kitties were literally 10 feet away from our open caravan, and while usually I’m not easily frightened, I nearly ran for the hills when the pride of lions approached the car in front of us. There were no wires or barriers between us and them. I took a sigh of relief when the meal truck finally arrived because I could again watch them in action from a distance, rather than up close and personal. Still it was a thrill and we managed to make feeding time for the wild dogs, and cheetahs, too. What an amazing ride! We followed the park rangers from site to site, leaving our tracks in the red dust as we ventured the wild (well kind of wild, after all it was a controlled game park). We ran into a ‘mama’ rhino and her baby on our way back, and a fleet of zebras gathered around the water hole for a cool drink. My gang and I took the same cue. We’d packed a cooler filled with water and snacks, and ate and drank along the way. Once we finished our ride, we still weren’t ready to go– we heard that there would be a tiger show, and some sort of race between a human and a cheetah. So we decided to check it out for fun! We found both and couldn’t believe how fearless the trainers were next to the mammoth-sized cats. It was also endearing to witness the uncanny bond between the ‘ring master’ and the beast, because they really were pals. The big tiger hugged his trainer, and followed him along like his best side kick. I thought wow, if man and beast can see eye to eye, than surely there’s hope for all of human kind!  Our last stop was the petting park, where we played with baby cubs for $R30.

I was wearing a straw hat, and one of the little sluggers hopped into my lap in an attempt to take it away. The cubs were so playful, and despite seeing the more vicious of the species moments earlier, I found it hard to believe that the little cubs would ever grow to be as big.  All in all it was fun exploring the game park by foot and van. The next time I go, I’d like to set up for a barbeque, or a braii as South Africans say. Cheers to action packed weekends, and get this– we only decided to go on Saturday, the night before! Game parks are definitely a fun activity for anyone, families, groups of friends, even to experience it on your own. It’s a chance to explore the wild without totally being in the wild. Regardless of which one you choose, it’s a must see!