Djibouti City

Djibouti is a tiny country, a former French colonial province - and it is totally charming.

I've had a marvellous morning. Four ladies of a certain age joined the transfer to Djibouti City, in a minibus with the local guide, Mohammed, and Clare from Ireland who is one of the ship's entertainments staff.

To say that tourism is in its infancy is an understatement. It was Mohammed's first ever time as a guide and Clare told us that there had already been a fight between three of them over who should be our guide.

His English was hesitant at first and we learned that it was best to ask him questions (and flip into French as a last resort).

Just outside the port the minibus pulled over. We were puzzled. "Photo stop". We duly got out and took photos - of the cranes etc:-). It was hilarious.

In town he did a sort of walking tour - the African quarter first and then the European quarter.

Everyone was charming. "Bienvenu" or "Welcome to Djibouti" and lots of smiles.

This may well be the highlight of our trip.

They all said, "tell your friends". And Djibouti now means more to me than an obscure quiz question.