iPass Hits the Hotspot for World Cup Play in South Africa

Tuesday, June 8th, 2010 Karen Ambrose Hickey, Editor

iPass Hits the Hotspot for World Cup Play in South Africa
Enjoy world class coverage for world cup play at one of 1,000 hotspots throughout the country

Today, we posted a new Google Map in celebration of the 2010 FIFA World Cup South Africa™!

Of course we have a number of hotspots throughout South Africa, more than 1,000 in total—most of which are located in cities playing host to the main events.

But to view some of our favorite picks, check out our Google Map featuring our
Top 10 Favorite Hotspots in South Africa >> The photos included will give you a sneak peek of all you can explore during your stay and where some of the teams are staying—if you’re lucky enough to be in attendance for this global spectacle!

Stadium Trivia
Can you guess what the below featured graphic is?

If you guessed soccer stadium, you’re right; but there’s so much more than just meets the eye. Give the architect and creative minds behind this creation some credit, and read on to learn what this emblematic stadium really resembles.

The Soccer City Stadium in Johannesburg, to be more specific, will host the first and final matches of the World Cup and “is one of the most artistic and awe-inspiring football venues on the African continent”, so FIFA would argue.
Read more about the stadium and games hosted here >>

Much thought went behind the design concept of the building, but the final selection landed on the African clay pot, the “calabash”, which “was selected as being the most recognizable object to represent what would automatically be associated with the African continent and not any other. The calabash, or ‘melting pot of African cultures’, sits on a raised podium, on top of which is located a ‘pit of fire’. Thus the pot sits in a depression, which is the ‘pit of fire’, as if it were being naturally fired.”
Read more about the stadium design and construction here >>

Having undergone millions of dollars worth of renovations, the terracotta exteriored stadium illuminates brilliantly by night and will now host more than 94,000 screaming football fanatics throughout tournament play.

Quick Summary
Name: Soccer City Stadium (FNB Stadium)
City: Johannesburg
Capacity: 94,700
Upgrade Cost: $310,000,000
Home: to Kaizer Chiefs (football)
Trivia: The outside of the stadium is designed to have the appearance of a calabash, an African pot

More iPass Hotspots
For more information about South Africa and iPass-enabled hotspot venues in the area, read our Mobility Story, World Class Coverage for World Cup Play >>

“As if World Cup play just months away wasn’t exciting enough, now travelers to and dwellers of South Africa can enjoy surfing the Net along with soccer games and safaris throughout the country.

Coming just in time for the 2010 World Cup soccer tournament—expected to attract 3.5 million people from around the globe—iPass’ addition of 500 hotspots throughout South Africa doubles the network coverage in this country.”And if you’re still looking for more information, ESPN highlights some great must-see eateries and attractions. Read More >>

Search all iPass Hotspots in South Africa >>

Let the magic of the World Cup games begin!

Tags: South Africa, wi-fi access