The Cape From Above

I remember absolutely loving the book ‘Earth from Above - a collection of mostly beautiful but sometimes ugly views of our planet, colours and patterns often seeming more anstract than real. ‘ Since its original publication in 1999, Yann Arthus-Bertrand’s Earth From Above has been a touchstone for the environmental movement throughout the world, selling more than 3 million copies in all languages. The result of a five-year journey across five continents and 60 countries, this spectacular portrait of our planet is also an iconic reminder of its fragility.’

Looking out on the landscapes of the Cape as we come into land, I’m reminded of this beauty, amazing patterns of field layouts, contours and crop systems, the ruggedness of unforgiving rock ranges, and the ugliness of shanty towns that stand as evidence both of resilience and prejudice. 

I’m using these views as Sunday’s blip - though technically they’re taken on Monday. I think they’re more interesting than the alternative of airport shots, and they’re definitely part of ‘the journey’ rather than ‘the destination’. 

Three airports and three flights - I’m shattered, not least by lengthy walks to get from one point of the airport to another. I clock up over 10,000 steps just inbetween planes . Still, flights are good , food and service fine, and as always it all seems worth it once we reach our destination - but it definitely takes more effort now!