Lamu, Kenya – Conclusion

The last visual scene I have of Lamu is on a dhow heading for Manda Island. I glanced back over the choppy waters at the small town concentrated along the waterfront. The coral white-washed buildings with their distinctive pillared round arches were a stark contrast to the dark water and clouds overhead. Leaving by boat leaves one with a sense of longing – a lingering sadness at leaving and not having spent enough time here.

Small wooden dhows with their home-made sails bobbed in the harbor front. Languid but somehow existing century after century Lamu will continue to wait for those travelers who want to experience her culture, history and slow pace of life.