Somalia, A $12 Room

Daylight is fading as we drive the dusty and packed road towards the Oriental Hotel. On a Friday evening, messages from mosques all around the city are echoing through the night air.

Arriving at the Oriental there is a short disappointment as I am told they are fully booked for the night. However, a quick call by the Front Desk clerk to a nearby hotel and my second mission is accomplished.

For $12 per night I have a relatively clean, safe and comfortable room without concrete barriers and armed guards.

With a good Wi-Fi connection I make my plans for tomorrow then it's time for dinner and an evening stroll around the city.