October 9th ~ Lusaka, Zambia

 

Early morning arrival in Lusaka, Zambia:  Once through baggage claim, security and customs, I was off to change a bit of currency and find a cab to take me to the United Church of Zambia (UCZ) Lodge at St. Paul's. Once at the Lodge, I was warmly welcomed and provided with a lovely room complete with the traditional mosquito netting over the bed. I'm not so sure why I find the netting so wonderful other than the blessed protection it offers in the night. There was also a small restaurant on site and breakfast was included in the cost of lodging .... and what a marvelous breakfast it was!!! I was privileged to hear an amazing choir practice during my stay as the preparations were underway for a Saturday wedding at the church. (The Women's Center, lodging and the restaurant were behind the primary church building.)

I began my travels to Zambia as a part of various Mission Teams in 2008, 2009, and 2012 yet this was my very 1st visit to the Capital city of Lusaka. I needed to change a bit more money from US Dollars to Zambian Kwacha, so I set off on foot to the local shopping center which wasn't too far away. I stopped by the bank/money changer in the shopping center and thankfully the exchange rates were better than they were at the airport. I also picked up some distilled water for drinking, juice, and a few snacks then headed back to the church.  It was a very hot day yet overall, a very nice walk, especially since I had so much time sitting on the long flights and layovers.  Note to self:  remember that the traffic patterns are different than that of the USA . . . yes, one drives on the left side of the road, not the right when in Zambia!  If one doesn't pay close attention, it can make crossing a busy road a bit like the old video game of "Frogger".   

Late afternoon and evening gave way to rest and the shuffling of some items amongst the bags as tomorrow would be a busy day. Additionally, I was notified that there would be some stops along the way towards Mwandi which meant I needed access to some non-traveling outfits.