Landed!

It was quite a grueling flight - but, 18 hours later, I'm here. I think I was the only American on the plane. There were 4-5 Kenyans and the rest were Europeans - mostly Swiss, German, Italian and French.

The flight from Zurich was almost totally over nothing. once we crossed the Mediterranean, there was only sand in every direction, undulating sand, as we followed it from Egypt and Libya across the Sudan and Ethiopia, landing finally in Nairobi (or, as I learned on the plane, also known as "Nairobbery")

Its hot - but not stifling - actually quite comfortable (but then again, its 8pm). The air is sparkling clean. the ride in from the airport was uneventful and little could be seen out the windows other than dark people walking in the darkness - walking along highways and roadways, and sidewalks. It seems to be a typical 3rd world city - drab concrete buildings, but lots of traffic and even traffic lights. I'll know more tomorrow when I venture out to see the sights before meeting up with the group tomorrow evening.

English is the official language, (as is Swahili - a close relative of arabic), so I can talk to everyone.


I'm beat - time to check out the dinner menu and then collapse.

Will I Make It?

Leaving today for my flight to Nairobi. I am once again obsessing about the weight of my rolling backpack - 3 pairs of washable pants and 5 shirts. Can't forget the hiking boots or waterproof sandals, 6 pairs of underwear and rain poncho (with hood). How much more can I minimize? Eliminate the mosquito netting? Too risky. what about the Aveeda shampoo? (I could use the packets of Tide laundry detergent . . . NO!!! I will not surrender small dignities.) And . . . my mind keeps wandering and wondering: will I make it? 45 days overland, throughout eastern African, CAMPING, and carrying my (very lightly packed) stuff and my (very heavily packed) photography gear. The last time I did this was 41 years ago when I hitched-hiked my way through Europe - But that was Europe - and this is Africa, . . . and I was 17 then!

Am I too old for this?
Am I too weak for this?
Am I too attached to my mani-pedi's for this?

I guess I'll find out soon enough.

THE COUNTDOWN CONTINUES

On my way to Manhattan to get mosquito nets, bug repellent (with 30% DEET), lipstick, and other necessities. Do I need a new pocketbook??