Genocide Memorial

It is Sunday.  It is typically good ice cream day but a slow snack day at the shop.

I spent the morning putting together a plan of attack to figure out 2012.

I decided to work in the morning and take a 30-minute bus ride to the genocide museum.  After you arrive in the town, you have to walk 3 km. 

First, the buses in Rwanda are an adventure in themselves.  I am definitely the only non-African person on the bus, which is packed with people.  The bus driver goes so fast and the roads are filled with potholes and curves.  I was holding on for dear life.  The good news is that all the guys on the bus were helping me.  They all are practicing their English.

When I get to the town to begin the 3km walk, I realize that this is really a hilly walk.  Since I left late and it is already past 3pm, I am a little worried that I can not get to the Memorial, visit, and get back to the bus before dark.  Added to the adventure is RAIN.

I refuse to take a moto (motorcycle) because I will not put the dirty helmet on.  Finally, I found a bicycle.  I decided to take the bicycle to save time.  Obviously, I was not prepared for the dirt road that was all downhill.  It was a real rollercoaster ride.

I negotiated with the bicycle rider to wait and take me back.  As soon as I walked toward the memorial, he took off.  So much for the uphill ride back.

I noticed a new white car in the parking lot (the only thing in the lot).  There was hope that I could hitch a ride back.  Turns out the car belonged to a woman from Holland that lives in Butare.  Definitely my lucky day!!!!!!!!!

The memorial was interesting, but definitely not something I would have gone to had I known that here would be 1800 decayed bodies, including a room full of babies.  The smell was terrible.

I am safe back in Butare enjoying French fries again.  See you tomorrow.  Paula