Day at the Beach

The 3 hour drive by minibus gave me ample opportunity to take in the views along the winding road through the rolling hills. Most of the land is terraced for growing fruits and vegetable of all kinds but with a special emphasis on bananas. I've decided that if I were a cow (or a goat) I would much rather live in Rwanda than Tanzania, they seem so much happier and healthier here! I'm staying at the cheapest place in town, the Presbyterian church but it's the nicest guest house I've stayed in. The main draw to the border town of Gisenyi is the beautiful Lake Kivu. I'm not much of a beach person but even I have to admit the place is stunning. I especially enjoy the border of grass beneath the shady trees that runs the length of the beach. My copy of the Lonely Planet told me that there were many local restaurants selling cheaper food at lower standards along the main road but I was unable to find one without help. I was seated next a group of 7 guys apparently all family living in Rwanda to escape the turmoil of the Congo. Eventually they came over and we chatted over our very large but otherwise lackluster South African Primus beers. It was a nice low key day after all the days on the road.

There's not always a need for a separate entry but I like seeing the different dots on the map! : )