From all that South Africa has offered during these weeks, it must be said that the people have had the greatest impact on us. Friendly, open and always up for a chat is what characterize the people we've met. In Johannesburg, here in one of the not so fancy townships we came across these fellows. We witness once more that style is what matters, screw fashion and see that style comes from within you and the espirit you fire away.
Going east towards Plettenberg bay we ask what all backpackers have to ask themselves - is it that high or am I just getting old to dare the jump? No, backpackers are not excused and neither are we, age is nothing but an excuse. So down it gooees (the immense sensation of panic is really fascinating)... and further down (feels like all the blood is packed in the skull as I reach the bottom), then I'm bouncing up and down in pure ecstasy.
As the journey has continued along the South African coastline we've scored some extra fine peelers. But surf is by the nature unpredictable. So what to do when we reach Jefferey's Bay - tha grand jewel of African surfing - and no waves are to be found? What you see on the pic is razor sharp mussels on the rocks that create amazing surf and unfortunately many cuts and scars. We made moules marinées! Fry spring oinion, garlic and parsley, add the j-bay mussels and white wine and then some cream. Serve with more wine and bread or fries. (We trust you know how to separate the good mussels from the bad ones, but just to not cause you harm: when the mussels are alive they should be closed, when ready to eat the mussels must be open. Bon apétit!
The salty breeze is extra refreshing as we're traveling the most scenic route heading towards gentle surf where the Atlantic crushes into the Indian Ocean. The surroundings are too beautiful to fully appreciate, all we want is hang those five or ten toes on the nose. We hear there are pinguins here, sounds cute, but we're not the only ones finding them nice.. sharky. Keep your fingers crossed and eyes open
As northern Europe starts to fade in to shade and automn gets closer it is time to hit the southern hemisphere. Endless someone? Beaches are probably the greatest place ever made and this scenery in particular. Take a guess where we are. The warm sand and icy water is protected by the twelve apostles. This is also known as the most fancy beach in SA.....
Summer's been great, right. Except all the shit. And here comes September as a second chance to do the things you talked about in April, but never did in June. The summer's not over, yet. Until fall hits we'll enjoy the days that offer another kind of freshness and crispy touch. September sessions are here.
Spending some crazy days in the Potemkin-like city of Vegas makes you suffer from flu and real life experience. What is better then going straight to Malibu. Not one of those "classic" days, but who cares when the sky is as blue as an ocean.. Forecast says great swell is coming up for the Malibu Invitational.
Meanwhile the world elite of surfers cheat death at Teachupoo we give you a three step seminar in surfing. Step one: thumbs up - surfers are a happy people. Step two: Shake the two-finger shaaka - throw some positive shaakas to your fellow surfers in the line up. Step three: work on your style in and out of the water.
Heads up for Sunpockets' black knight Eddie. This weekend is the last stop for the Concrete Cup and given the place, Stapelbädsparken we think our Eddie will give us an amazing show. Go fast or go home as he says to his opponents about the Ultra Bowl. We say go high just fly.
It's the 10th anniversary of the Spanish wavesliding fiesta. Introducing this year the Joel Tudor Duct Tape that gather the best log riders from Europe and the US. Sunpocket's own Clovis Donizetti is alone defending the French/Basque colours against Tudor, Knost, Abshere.. It starts at 1700 today and contiunes tomorrow. Don't be square, go there. (Photo César Ancelle-Hansen)