Matatus!!!

Hi everyone. I thought I'd let you all in on one of the truly great Kenyan experiences... the matatu. Matatus are the staple mode of public transport - they're minivans (Toyota Hi-ace or Tarago or such) that are pimped out to the max and have blaring hip-hop or reggae (some even with glowlights & little LCD screens showing some interesting videoclips) and take people all over the city.

Most are full to the brim - packed with 16-17 people in each rattling along at some fairly quick speeds. And who needs road rules anyway? Certainly not these guys... every possible law is broken on a regular basis.

Now this might all sound pretty worrying or scary, but it's hilarious (well, to me anyway). The first couple of trips were a bit stressful but as you get used to them you learn to just hang onto something and enjoy the ride. The non-verbal communiction between driver, money-man and passengers is also interesting to navigate your way through.

If you're ever over this way, you must give the humble matatu your respect and your dedication. You'll love it! :-)

See you soon

Jonno