Had some time off yesterday so off to Robben Island. The tour lasted about 3 hours and was not sure what to expect once I get there. Upon arriving there via the ferry, a bus takes you on a tour of the various spots and the session is a bit informed. However, for me the main reason of the visit was to try and get a feel or an insight of what Mandela went through, including many others who were labelled terrorists and held here during the aparthied era. What were the prison conditions like, what kind of regime abuses were they subject to etc especially when aparthied resistance was at its climax? Upon reaching the main prison, it is well painted and kept very clean. A former prisoner there leads the tour and takes questions. He was jailed for life because of failed attempt in trying to rpg a fuel convoy. He was arrested immediately and charged. One thing is certain, you cannot have escaped the island and there were various punishments on the groups. The problem I have with Robben Island and esp the prison quarters is that they have painted the cells, courtyards etc. This creates a false impression. Even Mandela's cell seems very live-able. I wish they had retained the original paint, the original feel. It was not easy to understand what really went on there. The courtyard where Mandela and other spent time has a small garden started by Mandela but I almost walked over it, thinking it was weeds etc. Somehow I did not connect to the island nor take in what happened. It's easier to google and learn more than going there. This is why we fail, IMHO. For a start, Robben Island should have hand held audio devices ( found in many sites world wide, even Stone Henge has them..) , properly labelled areas and ofcourse they should have retained the original " decor " as it was many years ago. I kind of left the island disappointed and could hear others on the trip felt the same too. But the island is a worthy trip, you know you cannot escape it if you ended up there......... I have very few images and they are in raw. As soon as I get some time, will upload them. :-) Me thots. Rgds.