The number of zig zag roads I have travelled are numerous but due to an irrational fear of windy, narrow roads my tendency to photograph everything is stilled by fear when it comes to these occasions. There was the time in Norway when the bus driver suggested that anyone frightened would be better off walking as the bus would hang way over the edge as it negotiated the bends. I walked but still didn’t take a photograph. Then there was the time in the Ardeche where Roger parked the car on the edge to have a good look at the view. I became hysterical screaming at him not to leave me there. “you’ll get run over and then what will I do” I screamed concerned only for my well-being. Another time in New Zealand when Roger did think I was going to die from fear as we crossed the Wairappa.
Instead I am showing you zig zags from the island of Tanna in Vanuatu where we lived for around four years. It was a strange island, full of custom (traditional lifestyle), chiefs, witch-doctors, cargo cults and the world’s most accessible active volcano Yasur. This Chief believed that Prince Philip was born on Tanna and is on loan to the Queen. One day he will return. He has a shrine to Prince Philip where his collection of biscuit tins (preferably only with a picture of the Prince) are displayed. The one he is holding we bought back from England, a present from Ken Campbell (an actor of some renown) who had visited Tanna whilst researching his play Jamais Vu. We had seen it and been taken backstage when it was showing in the West End of London.
The zig zag of the weave of the bamboo and grasses is easy to see. as in the examples below of special feasting houses being opened and outside one of our bungalows when a friend came to the island to be married.
Not only are the buildings and mats zig zaging but so too is the walk up to the rim of the volcano. An experience never to be forgotten.
Reflections and Nightmares- Irene A Waters (writer and memoirist) 
Fascinating! Especially the chief.
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Another world
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I too don’t like the idea of the bus zig-zagging up those windy roads. Not sure that I’d be relishing the walk either! You’re very brave and adventurous! 🙂
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I’m not brave Norah otherwise I’d be off to South Americal and Nepal. The thought of those roads keeps me at home. Sad you feel the same but it makes me feel better knowing I’m not the only one. 🙂
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Thank you for sharing this wonderful journey.
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Glad to have you travel with me Sharon.
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What an utterly amazing adventure in zigzags! Although, I share your fear of windy roads. The Hub can actually pull gs he takes the corners so swiftly, driving these mountain passes. I’m unimpressed and hang on to what he calls the “chicken handle.” Ah, but what an amazing place you visited!
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We lived there for over three years and it truly was an amazing experience although it gave us our “Nightmare in Paradise’ the subject of my first memoir it was also an experience that neither of us would have missed.
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