Just hours ago, on the journey towards a historical site in Aksum: there were plenty who offered us rides - but we decided to walk instead. On the way back from a site visit, we walked under the rain - and waved to several tuks tuks and vans which were full.
Ironic perhaps, and we thought we are going to walk an hour under the rain. Actually, its already full by any standards: about 21 people in a Toyota Hiace van, which is good for people in most developed countries, and when its fully utilized.
They stopped - at fit three of us, which give a total of 24 or maybe 25 people. Usually we complained about being packed like sardines in a public transport. But here, we are insanely grateful for the ride. Irony work both ways.
While squeezing as sardines - Ironic by Alanis Morissette played through my head:. Life has a funny way of sneaking up on you Life has a funny, funny way of helping you out Helping you out. The horrors can range from pickpocketing, blatant lies, to an aggressive eye for money. Yet, they tend to be the most willing to talk, laugh and ask questions. There are also those who are putting in real work, like this minivan conductor who is handling all the responsibilities as an adult.
However, most are all eyes on money, especially to an approaching Faranji foreigner. They will tag over long distances - with questions, claims and some, full of lies.
