Sunday, August 12, 2012

We are in Uganda

We arrived safely in Uganda three days ago. So far, it has been a good experience. We arrived late in the evening, and were greeted and transported by our sponsor, and a few othergentlemen who drove us and our 12 bags of belongings to our house. Our house is nice, a good bit smaller than our home in the states, but still very nice, with a wonderful yard. The weather is beautiful. It is like spring or fall weather, with a little rain each afternoon, as it is the rainy season.
We spent the first few days going into the city to look around, and to set up cell phones and Internet. Everything here is done on a cash only basis, which is kind of nice to not have to share you credit card info with everyone, but difficult because it is UGX (Ugandan Cash), which we do not have any of. Fortunately, our sponsor planned ahead for us, and prepared some UGX for us to get us by until we can go see the cashier this week.
Phones are pay as you go, and you can buy "air" cards for your phone minutes anywhere, including your car window while sitting in traffic. In fact, you can buy lot of things while sitting in traffic, such as toilet paper, and racket shaped bug zappers. Although we have phones, we will likely use Skype for our international calling since it is very cheap this way, if not free, when calling Skpye to Skype.
It was really interesting traveling through the city. Although it is not very far in terms of distance, it takes a while because traffic is crazy. The road is approximately 2 to 3 lanes wide, but there are no lines, and no real order. Everyone just gets in where they can, using the horn often as a warning signal, or to let someone know they can go in front of you. A large, four wheel drive type of vehicle is a must in my opinion. You want to be seen, and you need to jump curbs when necessary.
Another interesting thing is the Boda's. These are motorcycle taxis, and they are EVERYWHERE. They will carry anything from a person (maybe even three people), to a large sofa. Yes, I said sofa! I also noticed a 50 gallon barrel on one. I admire their ability to adapt and make due with what you have.
Overall, the people here are very friendly, and I feel welcome here. Today we walked up the hill to the local shopping center and pizza place as we do not yet have a care, nor do I feel like I will ever drive here. The pizza is really good, freshly made, and cooked in a fire oven in the center of the small building.
We will wait about two weeks until our things arrive, which I am looking forward to having our usual household items that are being sent. I am also looking forward to the dogs arriving. They will be here in a week, and I miss them a lot. I only hope our guards do not mind dogs, because I am sure our Schnauzer will get a little excited to have others in "his" yard.
Well, I am hoping to get my days and nights straight, and will plan to post more as we get settled. Best wishes for a great week to all of you.

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