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All eyes on South Africa
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The Republic of South Africa is a country located at the southern tip of Africa, with a 2,798 kilometers coastline on the Atlantic and Indian Oceans. It is known for the diversity in cultures and languages. Eleven official languages are recognized in the constitution. The country is also one of the founding members of the African Union and has the largest economy of all the members.
Now, South Africa is dressed up for 2010. From Table Mountain to Durban's Golden Mile, South Africa's top attractions have embraced the spirit of the FIFA 2010 World Cup, adding festive football-themed activities to their already world famous appeal.
Cape Town's Table Mountain, a world-famous attraction currently in the running to become one of the 7 natural wonders of the modern world has ensured its tabletop will have plenty of football flavour.
The flags of all the participating nations at the lower station, greet visitors climbing aboard the cable cars, branded with giant VISA soccer balls. Atop the famous landmark, sightseers can pose next to 2010 mascot Zakumi, and try out the township football themed café, and sporty cocktail bar. A new online ticketing system speeds up queuing time, and during the World Cup period, 2 children ride free with every adult ticket purchased.
Durban's famous beachfront, the Golden Mile, has had an extreme R200-million makeover that will see it rival top beachfront destinations like Florida and Rio. The new wider promenade runs all the way from uShaka Marine World to the Moses Mabhida Stadium. All areas are well lit, and CCTV cameras and increased law enforcement visibility will ensure visitors safety. A new pier has been built, beaches have been cleaned-up, and new showers and change rooms installed. Waterfront parking areas have been tarred and extended, and a facelift given to heritage buildings.Umhlanga's promenade has also been rebuilt, at a cost of R55-million.
Cape Town's V&A Waterfront is operating a giant wheel, similar to the London Eye that will allow visitors to enjoy panoramic views of the Mother City. At the Waterfront complex, football fans can experience interactive football, a goal wall, and play football against virtual international football stars in between enjoying big screen match action, local food, and wine.
In Host City Johannesburg, the national flags of all the teams participating in the competition line the N24 highway to and from OR Tambo International Airport. Newtown is hosting a month-long cultural festival of African music, dance, theatre, craft, and film centred on the Mary Fitzgerald public viewing area. FIFA 2010 World Cup branding has been hung from the Nelson Mandela Bridge, in tribute to the famous South African leader who was pivotal in bringing the tournament to Africa.
