MALAWI : "In December I decided it was time for a holiday of my own, so packed the backpack and set off to the warm heart of Africa - Malawi. It was the perfect escape, stopping over briefly in Blantyre before heading up to the southern shores of Lake Malawi for ten days of complete relaxation. Between diving, kayaking and hiking the days were spent in a hammock with a good book or catching up with the myriad of international travellers at one of the local restaurants or pubs. It was heavenly! Oh yes, and in case you're wondering where giraffes have such a good life, it's in Nyala Park just outside of Blantyre." - Cherelle Gordon. [Click on photographs to enlarge]