South African Travel Digest

The best time of the year to visit the capital of South Africa, Pretoria, is during the months of October and November each year.  This is when Jacaranda trees transform Pretoria into a beautiful purple carpet when about 70 000  are in bloom.Jacaranda trees are not indigenous to South Africa but to South America but were imported from Argentina in the 1880s. However, over the years, Pretoria has become well-known for its Jacaranda trees. Pretoria is therefore often referred to as the Jacaranda city, with even a local radio station named Jacaranda FM. Residents are looking forward to this sight each year as it also represents the start of the summer season. Students studying at the University of Pretoria even believe in the good luck of Jacaranda trees. If a Jacaranda blossom falls on your head you will pass your year-end exams.     Jacaranda trees are also protected by the Pretoria City Council as it is so much part of this city's culture. Because a rapid bus transport sy