Even though my international travels are limited, my favorite thing about travel is experiencing different customs and traditions. If I skip the tourist spots and surround myself in the local culture, I’m sure to have an authentic South African experience.

South African Cuisine. Some of my fellow travellers will try any food at least once. This is a good attitude to have when travelling, because food can tell the story of a place. Ilana, being the most daring of the crew, tried worms. That’s right, worms! Known locally as masonja, mopani worms are a popular food in the northern part of South Africa. Here, worms and other insects are an important and affordable source of protein.

If the thought of entomophagy (the scientific word for eating insects) grosses you out, you should know that more than half of the world’s population eat insects on a regular basis. In Thailand deep fried water bugs are a delicacy, and in Mexico chapulines, or grasshoppers, covered in salt, lime, and chili are a popular snack food.

Clothing. Before arriving in South Africa, I had the impression that the continent of Africa is in constant need of aid. Never did I expect a fashion-forward country.

High-end fashion designers at Sun Goddess use their artistic talent to preserve traditional designs. The fashion industry is quickly becoming an important part of the South African economy by creating many new jobs where unemployment is high.

Traditional Dance. Throughout history, Africans have used dance to celebrate special occasions, prepare men for a hunt, and give courage to warriors before heading into battle.

Just five miles from the Swaziland border is the tiny town of Pongola. In this rural area, people continue to live in traditional Zulu fashion where beehive hut homes are still common. Here, I witnessed a group of young Zulu warrior dancers put on an incredible display. With drums pounding and sticks in hand, I imagined a time when young men performed this same dance in anticipation of a battle.

Next: The History of Apartheid.

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