The Lake and the Drive

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  Mangochi, Malawi
Tuesday, June 19, 2007

It is Thursday morning. Today is a national holiday in Malawi. Reform Day in Malawi was established in 1964 when Malawi converted to a multiparty political system. Since then it has been observed nationally and everyone has the day off.
 
Due to the holiday, the clinic is closed today. I figured we would just spend the day moseying around Ntcheu. Much to my surprise, Dr. C announced that we would be visiting Lake Malawi at dinner last night. What great news!
 
Lake Malawi is recognized worldwide for its beauty. It is the only natural habitat the chambo fish is found in. The chambo fish requires a warm freshwater environment year round.  Lake Malawi is the only lake in the world that naturally provides this environment. I was told by Mr. Areas that the chambo fish is considered a rare tropical fish in the UK. He said a single fish would demand a price of around 200-300 pounds. Pretty steep, huh.
 
I feel so privileged to be spending time in the incredible country. They don't call it the 'Warm Heart of Africa' for nothing. The people are some of the most pleasant I have ever met.
 
The trip to the lake was grueling; however it was well worth it. The roads were very poor. We were unable to travel fast because of the massive amount of potholes. Swerving to miss them was the reason for our inefficiency. The excursion ended up taking about 3 hours. Upon our arrival, the mere sight of the lake completely irradiated all memories of the unpleasant drive. 
 
The lake is enormous and filled with deep blue water. The tropical trees seem to be placed at perfect intervals alongside the banks like a perfect painting. Gentle wind blew across the beach and across my face remarkably similar to an oceanic breeze. The sun radiated and warmed me as I breathed in the clean Malawian air. 
 
Lake Malawi is a vast and expansive lake and is nearly as large as the entire country. I could see Mozambique territory across the open waters. With mountains surrounding the lake, tropical plant life spread about like colorful confetti, and the cerulean blue waves quietly making their way to shore, Lake Malawi is surely one step away from heaven.     
 
There was something about this place. It was pure, untainted. It was like no one had ever been there. It was desolate. No tourists of any sort and not a bit commotion. It was peaceful and calm. This has been by far the most beautiful part of Malawi I have seen thus far.
 
We visited a few different resorts and I saw the location of feast. At the final resort, we went swimming. This was around 3:00 and it was beginning to cool down for the evening.
I waded into the clean water. It was cooler than I expected. Deeper and deeper I progressed. The further away from the shore I traveled, the warmer the water got. By the time I left my feet, the water temperature was pleasantly warm. Aaron, Jenn and I swam for about an hour and then returned to the beach to change and begin the journey home.
 
For anyone looking for an exclusive, private, and reasonable place to vacation, definitely look into Malawi. Be prepared to move though. You may fall in love.
 
The elation from the lake quickly faded as the drive home progressed. The roads are miserable. I must have hit my head on the ceiling of the ambulance a dozen times because of the ridiculous condition of the roads. I believe there the total area of the potholes was larger than that of the smooth area. You need to work on that Malawi. If you want to develop a bountiful tourism industry, fix your pitiful roads. The 'wooden rollercoaster sensation' you get while driving in is highly unpleasant. It's actually amazing the way the lake melts the driving frustration away instantly.
 
We left the lake at 4:20 and arrived back in Ntcheu at 8:09. The thought of the lake helped pass the time. I felt exhausted after the lengthy return voyage. Jennifer and Aaron both took naps and I decided to write a bit.
 
I just can't stop thinking about the Lake. It was mesmerizing. I don't recall saying anything as I peered out over the extensive waters. I just stood in astonishment muted by its magnificence. The conditions of the lake are optimal for boating, sailing, or kayaking. Now that I think about it, this lake is perfect for anything.
 
I can imagine living on the lake. I would lie on a homemade bamboo raft floating in the middle of the lake, as Tom Sawyer would have, fishing and singing with child-like candor. Lakeside bonfires would light the evening. Music from a weathered guitar would fill the cool nighttime air with the crackle of the blaze. I could live off the land. I would eat the delicious Chambo fish and the rich greens growing plentifully on the banks of the Lake. Wow what a fantasy! I never thought a lake could do that!
 
 
I want to dream about the lake tonight. I want to breathe the fresh air. I crave the euphoric feeling of the sun countered by the cool wind. You can come with me. Just bring a towel and swimsuit. That's all you'll need. The journey is still unfolding. More to come.
 
Side Notes: If you have any questions for me, please ask! I have had two specific questions about the Chilopora's garden as well as a video projector once donated.
 
The video projector is currently being used to show health-related films to the caretakers of the orphans.
 
The Chilopora's garden is home to an array of vegetation. I'll have more details at a later date.

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