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First impressions

Thought it time we touch base and let you know that we are still here!!!

We have been very busy since Jen's arrival. Mainly involves trying to lease/buy cars & getting the necessary documentation, sorting out my work VISA, sorting out housing....

We are getting an Audi A3 which we should have by Friday. We can't wait to drive it! Second car to be confirmed (but hopefully purchased by early next week). I have been dropping Pete at work each day so that I can use the hire car... looking forward to sleep in's in the near future and really being a lady of leisure- enjoy it while it lasts I say!

I have met with Charles Orbach (accounting firm) and am now in the process of obtaining documentation for VISA (copious amount) and then getting it processed ASAP. They are lovely people and I look forward to starting (probably another 1-3 months though due to length of time to get VISA). I seem to fill my days quite easily with daily food shopping, lunches, breakfasts, gym, organising Pete.... not too bad really! :) There are a lot of expat families here from all over the world of varying ages, marrital status & size of families.

Joburg is a city of contrasts. We live & work in the Northern suburb belt. It basically looks like any Western City with large houses and gardens, complexes, shopping villages etc. except that there are Africans selling goods on most corners and a thousand mini buses which are the only form of public transport. The Africans are jammed into these buses like sardines- for many this is there only mode of transport. Every housing complex also has barbed wire or electric fencing.

The city and southern side of city are a complete contrast to the Northern suburbs (Sandton area and north). A lot of Africans still live in 'slum' type housing, but I understand the situation is slowly improving. There are large developments of very small and simple brick housing being built in these areas. At present we are living in Rivonia which is less than 5km from Pete's work (we will be moving to a new house in Pine Slopes in a few weeks). We have a maid who visits once a week. Whilst I feel bad that the Africans are employed in positions such as these, they would be out of work if they weren't employed. It is really interesting talking to ours to get a better understanding of South African life, culture, views etc.

The distinguishing towers of Sandton.

They can be seen from most suburbs in Joburg and always reassure you of your location.

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