My top 5 favorite things about Fort Portal

It’s my last day in Fort Portal. Then it’s to Kampala and hopefully some experience rounding at their tertiary hospital and teaching residents. I was lucky enough to get a free day today, aside from meeting the District Health Educator and another training session for the students at a local school. Whilst I went for my morning jog, I thought of the things I am going to miss and wanted to share them.

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Fort Motel. This has been our residence for the past 15 days. The place is comfortable and clean and the staff are amazing. So good to come home to after a long day. I’m going to miss it – especially the wonderful staff who have spoilt us. The food is great and the cook is excellent. I do believe that I have been eating over 800 calories for breakfast as the staff predict my wants and give me a plate of my favorite fruits (papayas and mango) along with fresh eggs and tomatoes and toast and peanut butter! (in my defense lunches have been non-existent as we have usually been on the field.)

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Walks. Contrary to my expectations, Fort Portal is safe and there are no issues with going alone for walks. . I even convinced the CEO to go for walks early in the morning before the sun rises. He grumbled initially but I do believe I’ve converted him as he goes on his own when I’m not available. Also the evening walks after sundown are fabulous, with the sky full of beautiful bright stars. No light pollution, so the stars look spectacular.

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Runs. I’ve discovered a couple of running paths with hills. Great to do, as time permits. But you have to be prepared to run with the cows and the occasional goat . The sounds of the morning birds cheering you on is sheer heaven!

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Food. Did I already tell you the food is superb? 2 of my top restaurants are the Duchess (try the grilled fish or the fish wrapped in banana leaves or the pizzas) and the Mountains of the Moon. Be prepared to wait an hour before the food arrives, as everything is made fresh when you order. But the absolute best food I’ve ever tasted was one where we got invited to a friend’s house. His mum made a multitude of dishes- all of which would rival the most delicious meals at eateries across the world.

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Shopping. There are some really cool gift ideas of locally made items, including beaded jewellery and hand woven baskets and handmade backpacks etc. A few of the stores consign the women to make these products, and by puschasing these items, the women benefit and are able to afford to get food and shelter and school fees for their families. No guilt shopping!

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Also, here are some words in Rutooro that will help you if you are ever in Western Uganda: “Olyota” is “how are you” and the response is “kurungi” translated to “I am well”. “Weebale muno” means “thank you”. “Ogorobe” is “goodbye” and “Mogendankaha” means ” where are you going”. My friend also explained to me that if you need to go to the toilet, don’t ask for the bathroom or they will run a shower for you. Bathroom is where you bathe. If you need to void, especially whilst you are doing fieldwork, let your driver know you need to do a “short call”. And for heaven’s sake don’t pick up your phone and tell anyone you are making or taking a short call. You will most definitely get some startled looks. Happy travels.

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