Maybe the African desert is safer but home is cosier

Fiona’s husband sets off on a trip to Namibia amid a pandemic, and she fears for his safety. Fortunately there is a happy ending

Itake the chief to the railway station. He is on his way to Edinburgh airport – and from there he and his cameras plan to fly on to Namibia. The reason? He is taking pictures for a book. And, normally, I would send him off with my blessing. Content to hold the fort for a few weeks. Happy to be home alone. To eat simple suppers of soup, or egg on toast. To snuggle up with the MacNaughties and watch the newlyinstalled Britbox.

This time, though, I do not want him to go. Because in the midst of a world crisis, he is heading for the African bush.

Of course, it may be one of the safest places at the moment. And I have no doubt he will get there.

The question is, will he ever get back? I chew it over. Worldwide borders are closing. Flights are being cancelled.

If things go on like this, the chances are we won’t see him this side of Christmas. And if he does by some unlucky quirk of fate get the dreaded lurgy, what will local health facilities be like?

My head spins as I drive down the motorway to the TV station. Where the handful of workmates still turning up commiserate.

Although one does agree that he might well be safer in Africa than in Scotland. Worry, worry. And not just for him.

What if he really doesn’t get back? The doggies are great, but a solo diet of canine company could soon begin to pale... I turn on the news. The Foreign Office is issuing a warning. And telling people not to travel abroad for the next month.

I send a text informing the MacGregor of this fact. He is about to board the plane but promises to check out the story.

I tell him to weigh up the risks. It is his decision. And I do not want to be blamed for spoiling his trip.

Half an hour later and my globetrotting husband realises that if he continues with his journey, his travel insurance will be invalid. He sends another message.

He is coming home on the next train and can I please pick him up at the station.

With a mix of sadness and relief I call into the local supermarket. Where there is no toilet paper, naturally, but there are two nice ribeye steaks. His favourite. Plus I pop a bottle of his preferred whisky into the shopping basket.

And when he comes home, I resolve to

With a mix of sadness and relief I call into the supermarket. Where there is no toilet paper, naturally, but there are two nice ribeye steaks

encourage him to set off into the local wilderness. It is not Africa, I know. But his camera kit is packed, and he will be able to take his pictures.

While not coming into contact with anyone.

I then turn my attention to two traumatised doggies. Who saw bags going and bags coming back – and all in one day.

We muddle on. Wherever you are, stay safe and well. We will get through this.

Picture: Shutterstock. Photographing Namibia is certainly isolated but the medical facilities might be a little basic.