Today, Matt, Kat, Molly, and I had to drive all the way down to Mzuzu. We thought we were going to pick out our Temporary Employment Permits (TEPs), which are what will enable us to stay in Malawi legally. Half of the trip between Karonga and Mzuzu is through the mountains. There are some gorgeous landscapes as we drive atop monstrous mountains with Lake Malawi to the east. As we pulled around one switchback, I looked out my window to find three large baboons squatting on the side of the road, startled by the sounds of our massive coach bus, and observing us with some fright as we chugged by. The boy next to me who I had made friends with by sharing some of my M&M’s pointed to them with a smile. I smiled and chuckled, appreciating the fact that I was in Africa and that I had just seen three wild baboons on the side of the road.
We got to Mzuzu to find our TEPs were not yet there. Instead, we had to pay the money for our TEPs, which would then be sent to Blantyre. After the money arrives in Blantyre, our TEPs would be sent to Mzuzu. At that time we will need to return to Mzuzu and have our passports stamped by immigration. However, our trip wasn’t a complete waste. We did receive letters which verify that our TEPs have been approved, and those letters verify that we are safe to stay in the country.
After a short meal and a few quick errands, we boarded a mini-bus (Which we got for 700 Kwacha!!! Our best price ever!!!) and made it home by 10PM. It’s a pretty drive, but at four hours each way, it’s exhausting.
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