Kampala

19.11.08 We're here! What a welcome. The immigration official thanked us for coming to Uganda. No questions, just a warm welcome and then a straightforward taxi journey to our hotel which is fine. It even has a swimming pool. Our first day was spent getting our bearings in Kampala sorting out currency and phones, etc. Very crowded but no hasle at all, and things were easier than we thought.
21.11.08 We arrived in Fort Portal today following a five hour bus journey. The bus was quite an expereince. It was due to leave Kampala at 8 but clearly it wasn't going anywhere until all the places were filled. It was crowded with masses of bags on board but not too uncomfortable. We passed many villages where lots of people were sitting outside very basic looking structures. The bus rattled along at quite incredible speed given its condition and when we stopped at midday we ate fried banana and chappati from someone by the wayside. We felt we had really started our journey. The contrast could not have been greater when we arrived at our hotel which is extremely luxurious, with hardly anyone staying but lots of people to wait on us. It is extremly beautiful with magnificent grounds with a view over the mountains and an excellent swimming pool. We know this level of luxury can't last as it is too expensive but we're enjoying it for a few days before heading off on a 4 day walking trek with a guide to see the local crater lakes, staying in bandas (small huts) and a campground.