Mthatha is largely poor and overcrowded, and a little dilapidated, though it’s certainly not boring. Most people don't stay here beyond making a travel connection elsewhere; strangely, accommodation here is generally very expensive too. However, if you're traveling on your own and have some free time, be sure to see the Nelson Mandela Museum in town, as well as the center at Qunu about 19 km (12 miles) outside the city. The museum can arrange a tour for you, which is advised. And if you want some good, cheap local food, try one of the numerous large storage containers around the center of Mthatha that serve as makeshift (and very popular) restaurants.
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