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!