Greetings from the east coast of New Zealand..... which basically looks like hot england until you hit the coast. long golden beaches, mainly deserted and undeveloped!

Back in the Northern hemisphere again and in Mexico City. After the tranquility of Argentina, it is a bit crazy for me! I have been staying with a university friend for a few days which was really lovely,as much for the huge comfy double bed as anything (joke..thanks natalie, it was FAB!). I am in the city for this week and then joy of joys IN THE W HOTEL FOR 2 NIGHTS THIS WEEKEND!!! and then off to the coast...Scott is arriving on Friday so do not expect a pe...

I am back at the coast in the magical city of Salvador. Scary and vibrant - and full of the Candoble religion which seems to be a bit of voodoo style africa with a catholic bent for icons.... and they do balck magic, so i will be avoiding any confrontations with the ladies in frilly white crinolins and bright african head dresses!

Sorry - same pic -just a quick note to let you know that i returned from the jungle....what an experience on many levels!! the jungle itself is breathtaking. It is not like walking through a set of a david attenborough programme, but it is lush (at last I use that word in its correct context!) and the birds are lovely. It would seem however that I have lost none of my insatiable attraction to the two commen pests of south america - mosquitos (i am sporting 23 bit...

Well, I am now in the Amazon, still in Brazil and its hot and very sweaty. I am hoping to set off to do a trek which will no doubt bear many stories expecially since at the moment it is just me and the guide!!! AAgh! The flight in was amazing - a great view of the river and the jungle. My room is very like a cell at durham nick but has clean sheets.....and no 20stone dyke looking at me longingly, but apart from that..... will let you know how i get on!