We made arrangements with some new friends: David and his wife, Renee, to take us to the 3 major shopping areas to buy some things. Dan and I are not really prepared with a list, nor are we ready for the prices. Things are so expensive. (between $9-$12 for a box of cereal!!) We buy very little, only basics we know we will use.
The first store we went to is Goodies. It has 2 levels. The bottom level is a simple grocery store with a cheese counter, meat counter and bakery. We are not ready to experiment too much so we stick with what we know. There are some items and brand names we know and others which are imported. We try both. The upper level of Goodies carries simple furniture and home decorations along with household items. But, again, very expensive.
Next we battle traffic and go to Park n Shop. The layout is similar to that of Goodies with two levels. Groceries on the first level, but I did not travel upstairs to see what is available there. Here we can buy a phone for me to use locally. They can sell us the phone, but we must go somewhere else to buy minutes for the phone.
Lastly we go to the The Palms Mall. There are many different stores as well as a coffee shop and movie theater. We look into one store called GAME. We are told it is a lot like Target, but we do not stay to look around. Another popular store in the mall is Shop-Rite. Again, another grocery store. Here there is a greater selection of fruits and vegetables along with staple items and cleaning products. The crowds are crazy. None of the stores take credit, so everyone must walk around with wads of cash to pay for their purchases.
Here in Nigeria we use the Naira as the form of currency. They come in bills and some coins, but most stores to not accept coins. Notes come in denominations of N5, N10, N20, N50, N100, N200, N500, N1000. Just to give you and idea; N1000 is about $8.50. We were told to keep our money separated into different pockets, just to protect ourselves and allow for “dashing” when we need to. Dashing is paying a little something for a service. It could be the area boys who carry your bags, or an attendant who helps to stop traffic so you can back out of a parking spot.
Later in the afternoon, Dan and I do venture out across the street to buy a few vegetables from a local woman who has a stand. Another new thing… soak all the fruits and vegetables in water with “Milton” (a bleach solution) for 20 minutes then soak in clean, distilled water, then allow to dry. We probably paid too much, but we did not do a very good job of making our point. We will have to get better at bartering. Bought apples, a cucumber, and a pineapple that smelled so sweet and delicious.
Things are different, but the more we get around, the more accustomed we become to the mannerism of the culture.
Sunday, October 19, 2008
Wednesday, October 15, 2008
Our First Impressions
We arrived at the Lagos airport late Thursday afternoon. The airport is run down; an old, rusted out plane sits off to the side of the landing strip. It looks like something one would see in an old movie. (But it is real!)
We moved through the airport which is eerily quiet. We met the sponsors needed to expedite our time in the airport. There are 5 of us who just arrived at the airport who will be traveling together to the island of Ikoyi: the two of us, a Marine, and 2 Navy officers. I am feeling much better about the whole situation. The armored car that takes us across the mainland and over to the island helps as well!
When we walk out of the airport, we meet Dan’s office sponsor, Erin. She is so energetic. It is easy to see that she loves being in Africa and is taking advantage of her time here.
The trip into town was eye-opening. We were in an armored van. The streets were just as crowded as all the videos show. Traffic is slow with cars just pushing in wherever they can get an inch. LOTS of stop and go. Many pot holes as we get closer to our residence. People line the streets selling whatever they can. Shacks and falling down buildings served as homes. There are groups of people gathered around fires, cooking a meal and sharing with those around.
Motorcycles are all over the streets. There are no real traffic rules. They do not paint any traffic lanes, there are no stop lights or stop signs (and even if there were, they would only be a suggestion) these motorcycles share the lanes with cars, coming up on either side. I find out later that the motorcycles are a taxi service for the locals. (No helmets or protective wear, and everyone riding is wearing flip flops.)
Once we arrive on our island, so many more streets have huge pot holes. Cars are swerving around these holes; moving into oncoming traffic. It is a little scary. I had a pretty tight grip on the seat in front of me. (A little white knuckled!!)
We arrived at our new home in a relatively short period of time. There our social sponsor, Deanie, was busy setting up the necessary household items from the welcome kit. (sheets, pots, pans, dishes, etc.) Deanie ordered Thai and we had dinner together. After she left we fell into bed.
It was a very long day. But we are in Lagos!!
Our adventure begins!
We moved through the airport which is eerily quiet. We met the sponsors needed to expedite our time in the airport. There are 5 of us who just arrived at the airport who will be traveling together to the island of Ikoyi: the two of us, a Marine, and 2 Navy officers. I am feeling much better about the whole situation. The armored car that takes us across the mainland and over to the island helps as well!
When we walk out of the airport, we meet Dan’s office sponsor, Erin. She is so energetic. It is easy to see that she loves being in Africa and is taking advantage of her time here.
The trip into town was eye-opening. We were in an armored van. The streets were just as crowded as all the videos show. Traffic is slow with cars just pushing in wherever they can get an inch. LOTS of stop and go. Many pot holes as we get closer to our residence. People line the streets selling whatever they can. Shacks and falling down buildings served as homes. There are groups of people gathered around fires, cooking a meal and sharing with those around.
Motorcycles are all over the streets. There are no real traffic rules. They do not paint any traffic lanes, there are no stop lights or stop signs (and even if there were, they would only be a suggestion) these motorcycles share the lanes with cars, coming up on either side. I find out later that the motorcycles are a taxi service for the locals. (No helmets or protective wear, and everyone riding is wearing flip flops.)
Once we arrive on our island, so many more streets have huge pot holes. Cars are swerving around these holes; moving into oncoming traffic. It is a little scary. I had a pretty tight grip on the seat in front of me. (A little white knuckled!!)
We arrived at our new home in a relatively short period of time. There our social sponsor, Deanie, was busy setting up the necessary household items from the welcome kit. (sheets, pots, pans, dishes, etc.) Deanie ordered Thai and we had dinner together. After she left we fell into bed.
It was a very long day. But we are in Lagos!!
Our adventure begins!
Saturday, October 4, 2008
Ahhh, Paris! Ooo la la!
Wednesday morning we arrived in Paris. (Earlier than we had anticipated, lucky us.) We made it through customs and retrieved our luggage without any problems. But, because of the number of bags we carried, we had to switch taxis at the airport. Our first driver could not make all the bags fit and still leave room for us.
We arrived at our hotel located on the fringes of the Latin Quarter. We were too early to check in so we left our bags and went looking for breakfast. Even with the sun shining brightly, the weather was much cooler than we had expected. After our cafés, baguettes with jam, and croissants we went in search of warmer outerwear. We did not think we would be buying coats and sweaters in Paris, but my, they helped to keep us warm.
We spent a good portion of the morning just wandering the streets, taking pictures, and looking into the shops. We found our favorite crepe stand and enjoyed a delicious banana and Nutella crepe. We bought tickets for an afternoon boat tour along the Seine. It was lovely! The sun warmed us as we sat in the back of the boat enjoying the sights and trying not to fall asleep. Jet lag was hitting us!!
Instead of giving in and taking a nap, we went back to the hotel to freshen up. That did the trick. (But I just don’t know how to “neatly” take a shower without a shower curtain and not flood the bathroom!!!!) Nonetheless, we were rejuvenated and ready to head back down to the Latin Quarter. Jumping on the Metro, we walked along the cobblestone streets, found a quaint café where we enjoyed a glass of wine and watched people heading home.
Again we took to the streets in search of a restaurant which was serving outside along the sidewalks. We found a charming restaurant where we ordered mussels, bread, and wine. What a perfect end to a perfect day!!
The lack of sleep caught up to us and we returned to the hotel for an early night. Morning came too quickly, we were up and moving and eating breakfast by 7:00am, in order to catch a taxi ride to the airport.
Our flight was just a little late, (because we were shuttled from the jet way over to the plane) but no major difficulties. Flight was easy. (Another 6 hour flight) We arrived in Lagos at 4:30 local time. (5 hours ahead of EST)
And now Lagos, Nigeia…………
Thinking of you,
Chris and Dan
We arrived at our hotel located on the fringes of the Latin Quarter. We were too early to check in so we left our bags and went looking for breakfast. Even with the sun shining brightly, the weather was much cooler than we had expected. After our cafés, baguettes with jam, and croissants we went in search of warmer outerwear. We did not think we would be buying coats and sweaters in Paris, but my, they helped to keep us warm.
We spent a good portion of the morning just wandering the streets, taking pictures, and looking into the shops. We found our favorite crepe stand and enjoyed a delicious banana and Nutella crepe. We bought tickets for an afternoon boat tour along the Seine. It was lovely! The sun warmed us as we sat in the back of the boat enjoying the sights and trying not to fall asleep. Jet lag was hitting us!!
Instead of giving in and taking a nap, we went back to the hotel to freshen up. That did the trick. (But I just don’t know how to “neatly” take a shower without a shower curtain and not flood the bathroom!!!!) Nonetheless, we were rejuvenated and ready to head back down to the Latin Quarter. Jumping on the Metro, we walked along the cobblestone streets, found a quaint café where we enjoyed a glass of wine and watched people heading home.
Again we took to the streets in search of a restaurant which was serving outside along the sidewalks. We found a charming restaurant where we ordered mussels, bread, and wine. What a perfect end to a perfect day!!
The lack of sleep caught up to us and we returned to the hotel for an early night. Morning came too quickly, we were up and moving and eating breakfast by 7:00am, in order to catch a taxi ride to the airport.
Our flight was just a little late, (because we were shuttled from the jet way over to the plane) but no major difficulties. Flight was easy. (Another 6 hour flight) We arrived in Lagos at 4:30 local time. (5 hours ahead of EST)
And now Lagos, Nigeia…………
Thinking of you,
Chris and Dan
The Big Apple
Sunday, September 14, 2008.
We arrived in NYC early Sunday morning. Flight was easy, taxi ride to our hotel, not so easy. The taxi had only 2 gears: really fast and STOP! Our driver also enjoyed driving between the lanes. My best guess was that it gave him greater opportunities to jump from lane to lane. (Bet you did not know that taxis could jump, did you???) But the ride had our hearts beating rapidly in our chests and our adrenaline pumping; we were ready for a beautiful day in The Big Apple.
Sunday was sunny and HOT. We were able to walk the streets and enjoy the sights. We started out by strolling down 48th to Broadway.
Lucky us!! The annual event of “Broadway on Broadway” was taking place. Actors, actresses and a live band performed top songs from this year’s productions. The streets were closed off; people gathered on the bleachers (set up for this event) lined the streets, and sang along with the performers. It was a great afternoon. We were so inspired; we bought tickets to see a show. We saw “Avenue Q!” on Monday night. As Dan described it to me, “It is Sesame Street for adults!!” Really cute! Catchy tunes! Very funny!! (Not for the faint of heart)
Later that evening we met up with Ed who took the train in from Albany. (Ed is a college roommate of Dan’s). He was only in for a few hours so we made the most of our time together. We went to a wine and cheese restaurant where the cheese was incredible, the wine was wonderful, and our waiter was snooty. We thought we were in Paris already. Then, to try something new, we went over to a Korean BBQ for dinner. That was fun! I highly suggest you try it!
Monday, Dan was in training. I tried to “be seen” on the Today Show, but it was not to be my time in the spotlight. Oh well, maybe some time soon!
Later, just by chance, I was able to meet with Jenn’s sisters-in-law. Annie and Jill flew in from California to visit friends. What a great surprise! We walked Madison and 5th Avenues looking for the perfect little purchase. Nothing stopped us until we went into Tiffany’s. Only Annie walked out with “the little blue bag”! Lucky girl!!!
Later when Dan was back, we took time to walk through Central Park. It is such a wonderful place to go and TOTALLY forget you are in the middle of a huge city. We then returned to the hotel to prep for dinner and the show. Again, it was a fantastic time.
Tuesday we woke to clouds and a much cooler day. We went for breakfast then walked the streets. Lunch was in a little café as we watched the city hustle around us. By 2:00 we were at the airport for Dan’s second day of consultations. In preparation for our time in Paris, I chose a seat near a crepe stand to wait for Dan. Ooo la la!
Our time in New York was just wonderful. It was a very nice way to spend our last 2 days in the US. Oh my.
Sadly we say “good-bye” to our family and friends, or better yet, we will say “see you all again soon.” Please know that you are in our thoughts. We will miss you terribly. Be sure to keep in touch!
Take care, Dan and Chris
Talk to you again soon from Paris!!
We arrived in NYC early Sunday morning. Flight was easy, taxi ride to our hotel, not so easy. The taxi had only 2 gears: really fast and STOP! Our driver also enjoyed driving between the lanes. My best guess was that it gave him greater opportunities to jump from lane to lane. (Bet you did not know that taxis could jump, did you???) But the ride had our hearts beating rapidly in our chests and our adrenaline pumping; we were ready for a beautiful day in The Big Apple.
Sunday was sunny and HOT. We were able to walk the streets and enjoy the sights. We started out by strolling down 48th to Broadway.
Lucky us!! The annual event of “Broadway on Broadway” was taking place. Actors, actresses and a live band performed top songs from this year’s productions. The streets were closed off; people gathered on the bleachers (set up for this event) lined the streets, and sang along with the performers. It was a great afternoon. We were so inspired; we bought tickets to see a show. We saw “Avenue Q!” on Monday night. As Dan described it to me, “It is Sesame Street for adults!!” Really cute! Catchy tunes! Very funny!! (Not for the faint of heart)
Later that evening we met up with Ed who took the train in from Albany. (Ed is a college roommate of Dan’s). He was only in for a few hours so we made the most of our time together. We went to a wine and cheese restaurant where the cheese was incredible, the wine was wonderful, and our waiter was snooty. We thought we were in Paris already. Then, to try something new, we went over to a Korean BBQ for dinner. That was fun! I highly suggest you try it!
Monday, Dan was in training. I tried to “be seen” on the Today Show, but it was not to be my time in the spotlight. Oh well, maybe some time soon!
Later, just by chance, I was able to meet with Jenn’s sisters-in-law. Annie and Jill flew in from California to visit friends. What a great surprise! We walked Madison and 5th Avenues looking for the perfect little purchase. Nothing stopped us until we went into Tiffany’s. Only Annie walked out with “the little blue bag”! Lucky girl!!!
Later when Dan was back, we took time to walk through Central Park. It is such a wonderful place to go and TOTALLY forget you are in the middle of a huge city. We then returned to the hotel to prep for dinner and the show. Again, it was a fantastic time.
Tuesday we woke to clouds and a much cooler day. We went for breakfast then walked the streets. Lunch was in a little café as we watched the city hustle around us. By 2:00 we were at the airport for Dan’s second day of consultations. In preparation for our time in Paris, I chose a seat near a crepe stand to wait for Dan. Ooo la la!
Our time in New York was just wonderful. It was a very nice way to spend our last 2 days in the US. Oh my.
Sadly we say “good-bye” to our family and friends, or better yet, we will say “see you all again soon.” Please know that you are in our thoughts. We will miss you terribly. Be sure to keep in touch!
Take care, Dan and Chris
Talk to you again soon from Paris!!
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