(iKapa Coat Rack from New Moon Africa)

Around this time last year, I was contorting myself into some really awkward positions. I was trying to fall asleep and not disturb my neighbors on the next 20 or so hours of my flight.  Just me, my iPod, and my carry-on ready to explore South Africa.

Did I hate every hour of that flight?  Not entirely. Once I lay eyes on Table Mountain from the airplane window across the aisle, my heart skipped a beat.  No matter how jet-lagged I was, everyone on that side of the plane had their window shades up, and watching the Mother City pass by as we descended lower and lower into Cape Town. In that instant, I forgot any and all discomfort and couldn't wait to set foot on a new continent.

(The best view of Table Mountain was from Robben Island, seen here)