South Africa

Cape Town
It is a stunningly beautiful port city. Now as we sail away, we try to make sense of the contradictions and complexities of this country and of this world. First world wealth and infrastructure is closely surrounded by third world shanty towns and sickness. We spent some time enjoying the beauty and a little time visiting an HIV mobile testing clinic and youth center in one of the townships.

Backlog on the Blog

Internet Troubles at Sea.
My computer is failing so the posts are getting more and more difficult to do. I'll try to upload in India. Certainly the internet will be good there.
Anyone need me to visit any call centers in India?

Neptune Day

King Neptune

We had an extra special crossing of the equator on this voyage. The captain managed to cross the equator while crossing the Prime Meridian at the same time: 0, 0 Long/Lat. I managed to capture the moment on the GPS display.

The first time that sailors cross the equator at sea, they must give homage to King Neptune. This is a traditional ritual that experienced sailors love to pass on to the “Polywogs” .

On the MV Explorer, the Pollywogs get woken up with lots of noise. Then they get to be slimed in fish guts (and a little green jello), kiss a fish, ask for acceptance from King and Queen Neptune, and then sacrifice their hair. Keep in mind that this is all voluntary.

But at the end of it all, the Polywogs get to be called Shellbacks. In our case, they get to be called Emerald Shellbacks since they crossed at (0, 0). (Notice that I did not say, “we”. I’m still a Polywog.)

Playful as ever, the Tutus participated in the madness.

(Hallie, do you remember doing this?)

Ghana 3

Slave Dungeon

Nico, Leo, and I visited the Slave Dungeon of Cape Coast, Ghana. What a moving experience. This is one of the places where slaves were held in unspeakable conditions before they were sent overseas to their new enslaved location (for those who survived). Unforgettable.

Ghana 2

Kokum National Forest

Ghana 1

Ghana 1

Our first day in Takoradi, we participated in a West African Dance and Drumming workshop. We were able to see some wonderful performances and then we got some dancing and drumming instruction. Somehow they spotted Chris’ dancing ability immediately and showcased his skills to the group. It was quite lively and fun.

I'm thinking of re-naming my blog: "Chris dances around the world."

Medical talks

Medical Pre-ort Presentation

Chris has managed to turn the sometimes boring pre-port lectures into dazzling dance and music performances. The pre-port lectures consist of logistics and safety warnings for the upcoming country. For Ghana, Chris organized a song about Malaria to the tune of “Age of Aquarius”. He recruited from the Theatre faculty on put on a winning show. I think you can find the video on Youtube.