CARACAS,
VENEZUELA
13:00
So, today’s the day.
The day we set off, waving adios to civilisation and embarking on a perilous quest deep into the untamed heart of the rainforest. We made the final checks. McKinney barked out last orders, 47 scientists spread themselves across three minibuses, and our armed Venezuelan escorts clambered on with us.
Then, with a good-natured, jubilant honking of horns, the three vehicles moved out, away from the not-so-Majestic Hotel, and our voyage began.
That was nearly three hours ago.
We’re still stuck in the middle of the melee of downtown Caracas.
For a city that was so unwelcoming to us on arrival, it sure is reluctant to let us escape.
As far as the eye can see, there is nothing but traffic. Cars, buses, lorries, motorbikes. You name it. Everywhere. All of them insisting on sitting there, beeping their horns as though the announcement of their presence will cause the other vehicles to part and allow them through.
“This is a good traffic day,” one of our Bolivarian Militia escorts – Juan, I think I heard another call him – joked. At least, I think it was a joke.
I knew I should have downloaded more books onto my Kindle.
I guess it gives me time to update my blog, but with nothing but traffic to look at, I’m afraid there’s not much more to say.
Bored. So bored.
Oh, Sid and I had a good chat this morning and agreed to put the awkwardness of the last couple of days behind us and start fresh.
Well, that killed about 11 seconds.
Still bored.
Note to self – don’t try writing a blog post while sitting in an apocalyptic traffic jam.