The 2010 FIFA World Cup™ is finally here. After four years of waiting and preparing, South Africans can finally open their arms and welcome the world to our shores.

The Two Oceans Aquarium has embraced this welcoming spirit. We have decked our walkway in the flags of the competing countries. Some of these flags are also proudly waving on the roof of the I&J Predator Exhibit.

Inside, South African music welcomes our foreign guests and, in the foyer, Tiger’s Eye has put together a wonderful display of South Africa-branded items, including vuvuzelas, South African flag umbrellas and other merchandise.

Most of all, our staff members are feeling the spirit. They are all proudly wearing their special Bafana Bafana supporter shirts and displaying their soccer ball nametags and beaded South African flag broaches.

That truly inspiring day when Nelson Mandela started his walk as a free man was the day that South Africa’s spirit of unity was ignited. It has taken 16 years for that spirit to erupt into a raging fire – but today, 11 June 2010, this has happened.

Feel it. It is here. Go Bafana. Make us proud!