Okay, I’m really tired.  I’ve had about 5 hours of sleep in the past 36.  Two long flights; the first leg over the Atlantic; the second – even longer – over Europe and across Africa.  As we come in for our landing I notice little fires dotting the ground below… not sure if they are for heat or food.  I’ve been told to expect lots of outdoor fires.  

I can’t believe how huge the full moon is hanging in the sky as we taxi to the terminal… it actually looks more like a setting sun then a rising moon.  And the wide open space beside the airport is not undeveloped land like in North American airports--it’s a game reserve.  I feel like I’ve landed in a scene from a movie!   I’m sure not in Kansas anymore.  The flight attendant has just welcomed me to Nairobi, Kenya!

The drive from the airport to the hotel was crazy… like taking an urban ATV ride through endless obstacles on unlit roads - potholes, cars, bikes, carts and people--lots of people - constantly testing the driver.  

But it’s the pollution testing my lung capacity that I really notice.  Choking clouds of diesel, the smell of fires – and whatever that is they use as fuel! – all mixed together with tons of dust.  I’m really looking forward to a shower… and a beer.

Happily, the beer comes first.  A local brew called White Cap and it’s refreshing and cold - a special favour for me since most beer here isn’t served cold.

- Mike

PHOTOS FROM MIKE'S TRIP >>