Street Child trustee Jannah Britt-Green on Wanderlust's
online community, myWanderlust
describing her experience of the Kiln Sierra Leone
Marathon.
How long were you there for?
A week, but some stayed even longer to visit more projects and
spend time travelling around the country
What was the single highlight of your trip?
Getting to visit the marathon's charity - Street Child of Sierra
Leone's - projects and see their amazing work with street children
and their families. And see so many inspired runners there who ran
to raise monies for these projects. It was amazing!
Any lowlights/cautionary tales?
The old DeCaprio "TIA" (this is Africa) is what you want to go
on...So, nothing quite happens like it would in London, but that's
part of the adventure. My friend's passport was stolen, but we
worked a miracle and got an emergency one in less than 8 hrs!
Any absolutely MUST see sights/activities?
Up country - around Makeni - where we held the marathon was
beautiful lush countryside and wonderful people to meet. But I
think no one would argue that Tokeh and No 2 beaches are a real
favourite! Absolutely stunning...and you virtually have them to
yourself. Oh, and Tacugama chimp reserve too!
Any absolutely DON'T see sights/activities?
You don't want to see the local police office (manic!) - where we
had to get our missing passport report for my friend - but they
were all so lovely and helped us work an absolute miracle. Huge
thanks to them!
If you could give one piece of advice, what would it
be?
Keep your bags with you at all times...but don't worry - it
doesn't happen very often at all. Be sure to bring £ or $ with you
and exchange for Leones (local currency) at Crown Bakery in
Freetown if you can - they give the best exchange rates...and they
have the best international food too.
Any other comments?
We would all encourage any adventurers or runners to register for
next year's marathon - it was a life-changing experience for
everyone. Go to www.kilnsierraleonemarathon.com or
www.street-child.co.uk for further info on
registering.