If I had a do over....

what would I change? Certainly not the opportunity to visit such a wonderful country. This is an experience I will never forget. It provided an opportunity to learn how other people live. Through this experience I also learned how easy it is to live without all the trappings of modern living. That is if you don't count the cell phone that almost every PCV and Kenyan had, and the laptops and cameras that most PCVs had with them.

Perhaps there is some advice I can pass along to anyone who is a PC candidate, and will shortly make their first trip to another country. In Kenya, all laundry is done by hand and hung out to dry. Therefore fast drying clothes are a necessity. Instead of cotton, go for synthetic fibers that dry quickly. Cotton jeans will seemingly take forever to dry, unless you are living in a place where the climate is very dry and warm. Be prepared for a variety of weather. You probably won't need a winter parka, unless you are planning to climb Mt. Kenya or Mt. Kilimanjaro. Not much chance of either until after you have completed your training. But sweaters, light jackets, and long sleeved shirts or blouses are good items to bring. Not only because of dramatic temperature changes, but also for solar protection. Remember, Kenya straddles the Equator. Sun block should also be packed.

During my training, the instructors continuously stressed how conservatively men and women dressed in Kenya. The exceptions being the more progressive metropolitan area of Nairobi, and those areas frequented by tourists. So, ladies should leave those tight fitting jeans and short skirts at home. Go for skirts that reach the knees, and loose fitting clothing.

Cell phones: If you have a quad band phone that can be unlocked from your current service provider then you will likely be able to use it in Kenya. If not, there are a variety of phones available, with prices to match. In Kenya you are not tied to a single provider. You purchase the phone of your choice, a SIM card from a provider, and a "Top-up-Card", similar to a cash card, for the amount of time/money you wish to purchase. There were no service contracts while I was in Kenya.

List of items I found helpful, or would have liked to have in Kenya:

Solar shower - The 5 gallon variety worked very well. You'll appreciate it, particularly after heating bath water over an open fire.

Radio - My family sent me a solar/battery/crank powered radio from the U.S. It had AM/FM and S/W bands and worked pretty well. There are English and Kiswahili speaking stations available, including the BBC. You may also consider your favorite Ipod or mp3 player for a dose of your favorite music.

Sleeping bag - You'll need some bedding, and this, for me, was the easiest to carry.

Walking shoes or boots - A comfortable pair will be greatly appreciated once you have spent a few days at your training site.

This by no means is a complete list, but should be helpful in determining what to bring, and what to leave behind when you are struggling to stay below the weight limits for your baggage.