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| Pics of unexpected cell phone users have become a travel photo cliche but I continue to be surprised such as when this seemingly poor fisherman on distant Rolas Island whipped out his cell phone and chatted for a while. |
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| We focused on northern Mozambique: Pemba and the Quirimbas Archipelago (Ibo & Rolas Islands) |
- Portuguese rule ended in 1975 after a ten-year war for independence.
- A one-party Marxist regime nationalized private industry and presided over a general economic collapse and famine.
- Perhaps a million people were killed in a brutal civil war against anti-communist guerrillas.
- In 1990, a new president moved Mozambique toward a market-based economy, privatized many state-owned companies, and initiated a multi-party system.
- While the economy has improved, Mozambique is still one of the poorest countries in the world despite its enormous natural resources.
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| Always love the massive African baobab trees |
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| Left/right: Statues of revolutionary leaders of Mozambique Center: With my Pemba guide and driver |
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| One day we went swimming, snorkeling, and walking around little Rolas Island. |
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| Traditional music at Ibo Island |
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| Left: Ibo Island art salesman Center: Rolas Island fishing family Right: German hotel owner's son and his friend on Ibo Island |
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| Christmas dinner off the coast of Mozambique with a really great group. The explorers on board are mostly Brits, plus a few Australians, three Austrians, and just one American. |
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