Daniel Roberts, News24 User
It is easy to see why so many South Africans emigrate to London. The surrounding areas resemble much of the South African landscape and with the added benefit of safety it makes sense to see why so many do make the big move.
However, I can't say that London provides a better lifestyle. Expensive yes, especially property where living conditions are confined and narrow. Differences between expensive areas and poorer areas are minimal, and everything is just plain old.
Lifestyle activities included getting completely intoxicated most nights of the week, and as much fun as that sounds, there seems to be very little regard for responsibility and future quality of life.
But the one thing that stands out from the rest is the very obvious obsession regarding race and religion. Even towards white British locals nicknamed: Chavs.
I am ashamed to say that most of my family is racist. As much as people make out crime to be the number one factor for leaving South Africa, I believe the racist element in most of them was rather the reason for leaving.
This became increasingly evident as ex-South Africans talked amounts themselves with clear hatred for black people as well as there so-called Chav counterparts. It is true that when you leave you take all your issues and insecurities with you.
Something else to complain about
Another clear point was the complete lack of understanding regarding the Muslim religion and that of the holy month of Ramadan. Most felt that the Muslim community were using Ramadan as a way to get out of work. Many Ex-South Africans in London said they would never go live in Manchester or Liverpool because of too many Muslims living there.
And then there are the Polish people who are considered by most in the UK on par with Africans.
Leaving South Africa will not make you a better person or provide you with a better lifestyle. It will only give you something else to complain about.
I will never understand why so many people hate other cultures and religions. I long for the day when, as a white person, I can write down on a form that I am African and not Caucasian. And I also know that if crime were not an issue, South Africa would be without doubt "utopia".
Let's forget about those who have abandoned our country and let's start rebuilding our nation together. We will show the world come 2010 what we are capable of.
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