International visitors to Design Indaba 2009 in Cape Town were touched by South African hospitality, impressed by the natural beauty of this country and fascinated by the fusion of cultures that gives South Africa its unique spirit. Design Indaba Conference speakers from across the world talk about the vibrant energy, the optimism of South Africa’s people and the relaxed atmosphere they experienced when visiting this year. Both South Africa and Design Indaba received glowing compliments from speakers hosted in this land of contrasts, described by design activist Bruce Mau, as being “a place where different worlds come together”.