During our three-month trip from Cape to Cairo last year on two Chinese roadbikes, we met some interesting people along the way. All of them with a fascinating story to tell. Since I have returned from our Africa trip, it has been my dream to share some stories about them. I will write regular updates about the people we have met along the way and keep you updated on their progress. Now, let me introduce Darrin...
We met Darrin in Nairobi at Jungle Junction last year on our Crossing Africa trip. He is a remarkable man - he's been on the road for roughly two and a half years, managed to travel down the whole of the West Coast of Africa and then back up the East Coast up to Sudan where he is at the moment. This Kiwi has done more than 200 000 kilometers through Africa with his landy and is still going strong.
But, his trip has not been without any surprises. He managed to get shocked in one of those very dodgy showers where the warm water works only when plugged into the wall. He had a really bad accident at a lodge in Dar Es Salaam, but pulled through and recovered. This didn't put him off and even though he is still struggling with some sore back muscles and a slight loss of hearing, he didn't give up on his travels.
Here is a photo of Darrin with his Landy:
Darrin called Francois and myself the "KFC-couple" while we were in Nairobi, due to the fact that the first question I asked him shortly after we met was: "...now where can I find the KFC??" We also had a laugh as he explained to us his opinion of South Africans. He doesn't seem to understand our love for a "braai" and asked why South Africans just want to make a HUGE fire all the time?!! I also think he stayed with South Africans who had an excessive love for lamb chops!
In his latest update he explained that he had to spend almost 20 hours this week in the Addis Ababa embassy trying to actually get a stamp in his passport to extend the normal 2 week visa all vistors get. He added: "They love their paperwork and the right bloke was never there to sign it off". But eventually he managed and he is in for a lekker time in Sudan. We loved our time in Sudan, especially the time spent camping in the desert. We also found the people there extremely hospitable and kind.
So Darrin, all the best and enjoy Sudan! We'll update you on his progress as he goes along.
Darrin and his Land Rover are certainly unique. Thanks for sharing your experience with him. I wonder where he will be heading next...
Posted by: Martin | Sunday, 12 February 2012 at 23:44