Today did live upto it's promise. We couldn't have asked for better weather. Though the kids were keen to visit the volcano, the shopping is something on their mind and lips the whole week. the drive to the volcano was smooth, no sick kids this year phew!!! they were all very tired and slept most of the way, missing out on the magnificent scenery the climb has to offer. The main crater is nestled at about 2 600m above sea level, thats more than three times the highest peak in Mauritius. So we basically drove up through a couple of levels of clouds till it was us and the clouds below. Passing by the 'Plain of Sand' is always intriguing as this vast region it resembles the moon's surface. We got to the top, and the majestic piton de fournaise lay before us, with some blistering smoke rising from behind it as it has been active for the past 40 days. We then drove down into the clouds again as we descended to have lunch in the clouds, then for the volcano city (the volcano museum). It was very interesting as the kids learned a lot through interactive quizes and videos. The highlight of the visit was the 10 minute 4D film about the volcano. The room was filled with tense moments and screams throughout and I leave the rest for the kids to recount.
Finally we went down to decathlon to the absolute thrill of the kids. And as usual, many proved to be very inexperienced at this filling their baskets with what they cant afford. We managed to manage, and finally got everyone to shop within their budget. Tomorrow is yet another shopping experience, just as well they don't have much to spend this time. We are having a 'chilled' evening, and the excitement just has not been quenched the whole week.
It has been an absolute joy for me to spend this week with them, and discover them in a way I wish I had at the beginning of the year. I am sure when they get home they are going to 'crash' for a full day!!
Now we face the challenge of helping or rather should I say packing all the kid's suitcases except a few like Adrien who emptied and repacked their suitcase nearly every day.
Well, its been great, thank you for following our trip and the kids loved hearing all the comments. Kareen and Louis, I can tell you really missed your 'baby'. I must say Alicia did surprise me in many ways this week.

Tomorrow we land at 1730hrs in Mauritius. Please be there at 1730hrs to fetch your child. 

See you then

Mr. Kaiyo