Swaziland

I recently visited Swaziland for the first time - taking the long route (Dullstroom, long Tom pass and Nelspruit) and eventually entering the country via an accidental 4x4 road - mixing the beautiful views with the smell of Wim's Polo's complaining clutchplate. We camped at the backpackers at Mlwane Nature reserve, cussioned from the elements by an enormous inflatable matress that I secretly found quite embarresing. Apart from odd glances at the two of us carrying it to the tent from the car (it inflates - very loudly - at the cigarette lighter), it is a friendly and peaceful place. I find myself struggling to reconcile images of smiling vendors and waving children with the poster that catches my eye at the border post: 42 % HIV positive rate. Wear a condom. Anyway, I really recommend it (visiting Swaziland, that is). Check out one or two highlights:

House on Fire:
http://www.houseonfire.com/

Gone Rural, Swazi weaving initiative.

http://www.goneruralswazi.com/index.html