Arrival in Tofo

We woke up early the next morning at about 5 am to catch the 5:30 am shuttle to Tofo. Now, let’s be honest, when you hear the word “shuttle,” you think of a nice and speedy van that transports you comfortably to a location. Not in Africa! This was a bus stuffed to capacity, traveling for 8 hours over bumpy and incredibly dusty roads. Happily, we did not have all of our luggage piled on tops of us, but we were stuck in the very back of the bus with our legs crammed into the seats in front of us.

I have come to an observation about African transportation. In America, but buses and vans start out at some level of comfort. They have rows of seats and then a center aisle or side sections that don’t have seats because people need leg room or the ability to get in and out. NOT IN AFRICA!!! Here, they have welded in extra seats so that every freaking space is filled. Just imagine an African car company. I could see them without any seats at all, standing room only. The amazing thing is that they don’t seem to mind. The rides are long, bumpy, uncomfortable, hot, dusty, and with few rest stops. It is equally amazing how quiet and calm the younger children are. They do not cry and whine as we would often expect children to do at home.

On the plus side, during the trip over, we met and chatted with Carl, an Irish ex-pat, Dena (from Japan), and at Turtle Cove (our lodging in Tofo); we met Matthias, who was also on the bus. After settling in to our luxurious private room with hot water and a lovely bed, and walked down to the beach for a swim with Dena. For once, the water was warm enough to enjoy! The waves were a bit strong, but it was so much fun to be here. It very beautiful and peaceful here. After walking to Tofo and then back to the hostel, we ate a dinner of fish (myself) and chicken and prawns (Jeremy). We also ordered Matapa, a local vegetable made out of coconut meat and milk. The 8 hour trip was worth it. We also chatted with Carl, Matthias, and Dena during dinner.

We are excited about a possible Ocean Safari with Whale Sharks, going fishing, and doing Yoga and diving with Dena.

Did I mention that it is beautiful here? The ocean is so blue and clean. The air is hot and the sun is bright, but it is relaxing. I cannot wait for the next few days to explore this wonderful paradise.