Cape Town, South Africa: Robben Island

Luck wasn't always on our side when it came to our trip to South Africa. We had been looking forward to a visit to Robben Island and had allocated some time to do it. Alas, the weather did not cooperate. The seas were too choppy to allow passengers to take the ride of more than three miles to the island from the mainland. I'd say better luck next time, but there probably won't be a next time. 

It's probably not the most famous island to host a prison; that distinction may be saved for Alcatraz near San Francisco - although that may be a home country bias. But ... Robben Island isn't far behind. 

The area has been used for medical work and military purposes. But it became famous when it was the site of an infamous prison. More to the point, Nelson Mandela spent 18 of his 27 years in jail there. The place was in operation from 1961 to 1991. Now it's a tourist attraction, and former prisoners often serve as tour guides. 

At least we get to watch a short video on the place: