Blogs from Somaliland, Somalia, Africa - page 2

Shortly after leaving Oman we started across the infamous Gulf of Aden, home to the world’s most active pirate fleet. Regent went to great lengths to assure a safe passage for her flagship, the Voyager, and her boat load of passengers and crew. First off the ship was equipped with an LRAD---long range acoustic device---which when activated directs an ear shattering cone of noise at a target. This device was used by the Seabourn Spirit in 2005 to deter a Somali pirate attack. The LRAD was attached to the aft railing of the ship behind the Horizon Lounge—right where we have our parties. Next, four young Israeli security guards were brought on board for the transit. The ship’s regular security forces are Gurkhas. These Nepalese men are renowned for their fierce fighting ability and have been ... read more

"You are from Britain. You are welcome. You are my brother. This is your second home!" Abdul (also known as Little King Kong). Somaliland (Somali: Soomaaliland) is a de facto independent republic located in the Horn of Africa. The Republic of Somaliland considers itself to be the successor state of the former British Somaliland protectorate, which had an area of about 176,210 square kilometres (68,040 sq mi), which became independent on June 26, 1960, and united with Italian Somaliland five days later to form the Somali Republic. On May 18, 1991, the people of Somaliland declared independence from Somalia. However, it was not recognized by any other country or international organization. (Wikipedia) I was made to feel welcome in Somaliland, even if I sometimes felt like the centre ... read more

Because of the mountains, the country is full of wadis (sandy rivers that are dry for most of the time except when it rains); however, after the rains some have flowing streams for a while; and that is the perfect time to camp around one. The sandy beaches of the wadis are like the sea bleaches - even finer sometimes, and take a dip in the fresh stream or pools. Just watch out for signs of rain and a torrent coming from up river. Plus if you have a hand for prospecting, you can search through sands of the wadi and maybe you will find a precious stone - an emerald, an opal, etc.. This country certainly has a precious stone.... read more

Berbera is about 200 miles or so away from Hargeisa, the capital of Somaliland; more importantly, it may be the oldest town on this side of the African Red Sea/Gulf of Aden. It was visited by a Greek sailor-merchant in the first century AD, as is told in the Periplus of the Red Sea. I did not see much of the city's ruins or old buildings; I went to see the beach, where I spent a lot of time. The beaches are beautiful but were empty, except for a few youngsters taking a dip in the sea. It seems that few tourists ever venture into this country. But would that a wonder, when this country, termed as Africa's Best Kept Secret, for its stability and peace, is often confused with Somalia proper.... read more

The Horn of Africa. The self-declared and officially non-existent Republic of Somaliland, occupying the northernmost part of the fictitious country of Somalia. For some reason the word “warlord” pops up in my head when I hear “Somali”. Somali Warlord. Like Apple Pie. Images of brave marines killing hundreds of skinnies for every one they lose. The overwhelming and irresistible firepower of Democracy. Black Hawk Down. When I told him where I was headed my brother asked me if it was possible to find a more dangerous place. As people you meet on the street will tell you, there are 5 parts to Somalia: Djibouti - the French “Department”, the Ogaden region in Ethiopia, a part of Kenya, Somalia proper - formerly an Italian colony and now further divided into the mini-state of Puntland (there is no ... read more