"Lake OF Stars"

Since I read a report of two Dutch journalists travelling overland from Cairo to Cape Town I was fascinated by the idea to try it myself. When I finished my studies I didn t had enough time to do the whole trip but at least I wanted to make some African experience! I bought a LP - travel guide and when I finished the book I knew that I had to start my first African journey in "The Warm Heart Of Africa - Malawi!"

 

The plan was made and I bought my ticket. Four days before I left home there were strikes in Blantyre and Lilongwe. More than 40 people were shot by the police. With strange feelings I went on the plane not knowing what I would have to expect. Once in the country everything was fine. The people were indescribable friendly and helpful. I felt welcome every single day!

In the following years I returned to Malawi for another three times. Although it was changing a lot I enjoyed being there every time!

Since my first visit in 1992 I returned five times to Malawi. It changed a lot during the last years but its people are stll extremely friendly and helpful!

In 1994 a multiparty system was invented and elections were held. The new president was leader of the opposition party UDF. Dr Bakili Muluzi became the second president of Malawi. The country seemed to become more liberal, but unfortunately the economy rapidly was going down. People became even poorer. Results of this were the "touristy side effects" like the increase of pickpockets and muggings. Formerly known as "Africa for beginners", the situation changed a bit and is now comparable to the neighbour countries.

Beside all the beauty of this country it should not be forgotten that there is also another side! The country is facing enormous problems: its one of the poorest countries with one of the highest HIV rates of the continent, the medical situation is not good, many children are orphans, a lot of parents can`t afford to pay the school, fees etc

After its independence in 1963 Dr. Kamuzu Banda became the first president and ruled the country for nearly 30 years. He was one of the longest ruling dictators in the world! Under his leadership women were not allowed to wear trousers and skirts had to cover the knees, men had to have short hair. During that time even tourists had to follow that rules. A lot of travellers avoided the country because of that.