Earlier this year we had a plan to go to Loango natural park in Gabon. We were all set and on time to catch our plane at Libreville airport around 6am in the morning. Unfortunately, there was a labor strike at the Port Gentil airport that day. We had seen several labor actions the weeks and months before. We live in Libreville and I had been stuck in airports and in traffic several times before due to that or fuel shortages. Well, today when taking my parents on a trip into Gabon it happened again. After considering our options we took the taxi to the old harbor in centre ville, where you can take the ferry. Nine hours later we were checked in and waiting for our departure. This was the start of a very adventurous trip. It would take another thirty hours before we would reach Loango. But what a pretty departure it was.

I call it the blue room - the waiting area next to the dock where the ferry would depart from, some hours later. We were early, and all sorts of people arrived, and it filled up.

Early arrival. Fuji X-T1, 18mm, f/4, 1/60sec, ISO800

One of the first arrivals for the ferry. He walks with his ticket in his hand toward the opening on the quay side, but the boat hasn't even arrived yet. This is the VIP room, and soon it is packed with people and street vendors. From the empty blue room he will step onto the great blue, a few hours later.

Making an entrance, Fuji X-T1, 18mm, f/4, 1/60sec, ISO2500

This proud woman arrived in the waiting hall as if expected by all. The blue room was already impressing me, with natural light from a window high up. Then she came through the door in contrasting color and I was able to capture it in a fleeting moment.

The blue wall, Fuji X-T1, 18mm, f/2.8, 1/60sec, ISO1250

Three is a crowd, Fuji X-T1, 18mm, f/4, 1/60sec, ISO1600

The room eventually filled up and we were in great company. Missing the plane gave us a great experience. The next day would provide much more adventure. In fact, if you don't mind surprises - "change of plan" - then this trip was going to be a blast!

My dad patiently waiting in the VIP room