Escape to Lamu

Friday 18 February was the occasion of Uganda's presidential and parliamentary elections. The last time these elections were held in 2006 there was a fair amount of violence and unrest. Even though most analysts reckoned that this year's election would pass peacefully (as indeed they did) VSO wasn't prepared to take any chances with volunteer safety. As a result volunteers were requested to stay at home from Thursday 17 to Tuesday 22 February . . just in case.

The thought of confinement for 6 days did not appeal, so we decided to visit the island of Lamu just of the Kenya coast in the Indian Ocean. Matt and Holly, visited Lamu after staying with us for Christmas and they enjoyed it very much. Here are some images from the trip.
The main square in Lamu - on Sunday night football matches are screened on the wall opposite the island's Fort
The sea bounces off the sea wall at high tide, as this tide was close to the full moon it was particularly high and we thought this guy wasn't going to keep dry - but he did and didn't in fact take the cigarette from his mouth as he moved from boat to boat to dry land!
Renate standing in a beautifully carved door post - typical of most buildings in Lamu
The buildings are constructed close together and at ground level there's some shade walking along the alleyways - many buildings have roof top structures where they can catch the breeze.

a "Lamu Sea Breeze" and an "Apple and Mint Crush" - fruit juices to die for.
The main means of transporting goods and supplies is via the island's donkeys who look slight and gentle. We resisted the opportunities to have a ride and our pictures taken. There's a donkey sanctuary on the island that provides veterinary care and a place to retire. It is run by a charity from Sidmouth in Devon!
Here we are posing in front of the guest bedroom in the Swahili House!
Intricate plasterwork shelves at the Swahili House Museum