Another week in Tonga



Well another school week has started in Tonga at Tupou College. Still no power and the generators whirring is the 'norm'.  Somewhat of a relief from the chain saws at random times for hours on end. No end in sight for the restoration of power yet. The variations in different power sources have affected the water. No water in our kitchen since Thursday night, and an off and on supply to the bathroom basin and shower. Of course when it's hottest; no water to the shower. Still we have bananas, which ripen all at once. So banana porridge, banana cake, banana anything we can think of and then the pigs are the beneficiaries.

 The Scenic Hotel, near the airport is back in action, although the pool is still to be filled and available, but it is a light relief from Toloa. They do have meals and drinks.

 Saturday we decided to take a bus to town; quite an adventure. The 30 seater was transport for 42 people and as we had to stand for the 18 km trip. We had no idea of our location at any given time. After the bus stopped stopped near the markets we decided to get off. Quite a successful excursion we bought tomatoes ($3), some new storage jars, some coriander ($3) and headed to the sea side bus depot. We sat on the Toloa bus for 24 minutes in about 35 degree heat and 110% humidity until we finally headed home. Luckily we had a seat and a window, almost near us. The rest of the day was recovery and the only way to cool off was a ride around on the farm on the scooter lathered in sweat but enjoying the breeze created by our 25 kms per hour ride.

 Sunday was slow and really, really hot. From our previous time here it does get cooler but not for a while yet I suspect, the locals suggest in June. Greg had an executive meeting at 4pm that went for 3 hours. I had the time to read, read some more then decided to do some Uni work. By the tie he returned we heated up Thai fish cakes from the night before and settled down to watch The Girls on the Train.

 Greg is busy in Nuka'Alofa today visiting a series of Aid agencies and Government Departments to ascertain what aid and assistance we can expect here at Toloa. We'd be content with power and a move back to our cottage, but suspect that may be a least 2 weeks away. It's a bit like camping only it's long term and quite unpredictable.

 That's it for this post, hope you're enjoying it,
Mary

Comments

  1. Manal8 March 2018 at 03:41

    Thanks for sharing Mary. Sounds like quite the challenge and quite the adventure.

    ReplyDelete

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