As I might have mentioned, I was in Cape Town recently, speaking about websites for the Professional Speaking Association of Southern Africa. The convention had a ‘break out’ theme, and was held at the Breakwater Lodge, which used to be a prison.
Almost as soon as I arrived, I was taken on a wine-tasting trip, followed by a braai (barbecue). So I didn’t get back to the hotel until late, feeling dizzy and strange after a 12-hour flight and the generous PSA SA hospitality.
Here’s the entrance to the hotel reception where I checked in. It looks just like a normal hotel, doesn’t it?

“You’re in room 2221,” they told me. “It’s in the prison building behind you. Walk along the corridor to the turret, and take the lift to the second floor.”
I turned around and saw the prison, with its crenellations around the roof and bars at the windows.

Obediently, I wheeled my bags through the entrance. (more…)