First days went well and rather slowly, as expected :) I spent most of the time at the VSO office getting some basic briefings on security, health, financial procedures etc. Went for a checkup to the local clinic, opened a bank account at the National Bank and sorted out living arrangements. So far I've been staying at a hotel. Last night I will moved in to another volunteer's place for a month. In the beginning of August I should get my own little house.
All the VSO staff and other volunteers I've met so far are super nice and welcoming. The longer you stay the more welcoming they seem to be - under 2 months I guess people wouldn't be investing much energy ;) It's kind of like in Brussels. Anyway, straight away I got invited to a small 4th of July get-together and a Friday dinner at one of the volunteer's places. On Sunday we drove with two other people to the lakeside - a lovely day trip.
It was good to get out of Lilongwe. After a couple of days here there isn't much to do. There are literally maybe 5 or 6 bars/cafes where people hang out in the evenings. No cinemas or theatres. Plus the city is really spread out and half-empty - not easy to get around without a car. I might get a bike soon though - still thinking about it (ok for now, but less practical for the rainy season when it gets super hot and, obviously, super rainy). Still, expats seem to organise well both for leisure and transport and most of the people I've talked to are enjoying their time here.
This afternoon I will go for the first time to the office of the CSEC where I'll be working. Looking very much forward to it.
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