We have arrived in Nkhata Bay (Malawi) ahead of schedule after making the trip from Mbeya over the border in a single day. It only took 5 different minibuses to arrive at our destination but we arrived in time to catch an afternoon of sunshine sitting next to what looks like the sea but is in fact the beautiful Lake Malawi! The third and longest bus ride taught me that the way we normally sit should be looked upon as a luxury! A wonderful gentleman brought along a shelf/basket of fish that because I was sitting in the back seat was resting on my neck, forcing me to lean forward. If that wasn't enough they had packed the space under the chairs so tight I had no choice but to tuck my legs up so that my chin was resting on my knees - my first impression of Malawi was disappearing south very quickly but thankfully the fish were all dried. I managed to endure the three hours but a Canadian that was sitting next to me complained of being claustrophobic and managed to get moved from the worst seat in the van to the best, good skills! To his credit I don't think he was joking as he spent 5 minutes on the side of the road being very unwell.

I have to say the lake is beautiful! The place we are staying at is called Butterfly Lodge and it sits directly on the edge of the lake, the bar area is stunning but the best of all is that the local beer is called 'Kuche Kuche!' They are reported to give you a nasty headache in the morning but they are slipping down very nicely at the moment so we will see.

Unfortunately our time in the bay has been cut short as the 'Ilala', the local ferry to the islands leaves tomorrow. It's a bit of a shame because the people here are great; so far this afternoon has laid the foundations for a good night. We shall see how it goes!