Safari-time! And the end of the prep course in Kenya
I've gotten internet access again! Now I'll attempt to retrace my steps since the last time I updated you guys..
On Saturday we left our beloved Brackenhurst Conference Center and went on four hour drive to Masaai Mara National Reserve. The road was extremely bumpy, and we inhaled large amounts of dust, but the mood was great. We played music, snacked on junk food, and we even met Masaai women on the way who sold us Masaai crafts. (Heey Christmas presents).
Shortly after our arrival to the park, we checked in to our beautiful homes for the night. My roommates were Penina, who's on the Tanzania team with me, and Birgitte, who's on the Brazilian team. Our rooms were tents, but I wouldn't call a room with a huge bathroom that has a tiled floor for a tent. We had two huge beds and all the interior was Masaai inspired. It was absolutely gorgeous.
In case you're not excited about reading that I went to Masaai Mara, let me tell you what it is: A huge reserve with lots of animals. Yep, safari time! After jumping up and down in joy for a while because of our beautiful rooms, we got ready to go on our first game drive! We hopped into our safari cars in groups of 6 and drove around the park. We saw zebras, elephants, lions, impalas, gazelles, ostriches etc.
The next morning, at dawn, we went on a second game drive. That was when I saw the elephant family. (I've posted a picture further down). After this, and a much sought-after breakfast, we were on the road again. This time our destination was Nairobi, specifically Kenya YWCA. The trip took longer than planned because of two flat tires and an overheated engine, but we finally made it.
At YWCA we wrapped up the preparatory course. We had pizza and saw the CfC movie we made. It was very sad to part with the others. Honestly, I'm surprised by how sad it was to part with them. The group has grown so close, so quickly. Cards, hugs and good luck wishes were exchanged, and over the next two days, all of us had left and started our posting. The situation was very bittersweet, because although we found it difficult to say goodbye, we were, and still are, very eager to get to work in our host countries.
Now we're scattered all over the planet - in Nicaragua, Kenya, Madagascar, Brazil and Tanzania.
Fortunately we'll be reunited in January, when the South participants are going on their exchange to Norway. I can't wait to see you guys again, and until then, good luck with everything! - Francesca