Out of place

by Razaan Keur (South Africa)

I didn't expect to find South Africa

Easy London, South Africa. This is a place of true environmental culture evident in its landscape. Greenery extends far beyond the bends and turns of the (gravel) roads on your way to the Transkei coast. Farms decorate the land along with commonly occasional stray cattle grazing the fields and along the roads. Known as the Wild Coast due to the unforgiving smashing of waves against boulders that are as huge as hills, the scene is serene and invigorating. Course sand that is easy on the soles of your barefeet, tropical water from the warm Indian Ocean that is comfortable against your skin, and the late afternoon sun that sets the perfect lighting for the best photography session that you have not planned for. As a bonus, you even become acquainted with some tropical fish swimming right next to you! However, amidst all of the usual things that you would find at a beach - gently disrupting your photoshoot with a 'moo' - passes the most unexpected resident beachgoers. A few cows with the largest bull plodding himself down right in front of the herd while the rest actually walk along the water! I stand in awe, gaping in astonishment at this absolutely surreal moment that is the most out of place setting I would never have thought possible. Shortly after the herd of cows arrived, comes along a random donkey. He could not care any less about his hairy cousins, nor does he wade a bit in the water. He rather finds a comfortable patch on the wet sand and lays himself down for a nap. I now continue my unplanned photoshoot, except the models have now changed. Beautiful East London, may you prosper in your unique beauty.