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Our group flew into Gisenyi to meet the rest of the TV team. Gisenyi is different when compared to other cities of Rwanda. We saw many deluxe luxury hotels and lodges around town. What a contrast; a few kilometres earlier just outside of town, we had passed a refugee camp with about a dozen white dome tents given by UNHCR. Apparently Gisenyi "is a ritzy resort town for rich Rwandans and resident foreigners" as a local at a store told us. It seems rather odd that just surrounding this little holiday paradise are rebel groups still fighting across the border, forcing displaced persons into makeshift homes.

We arrived at Paradis Malahide, a beautiful hotel on the shores of Lake Kivu. We were promptly welcomed by a happy fellow who eagerly showed us around. We decided to opt for a group of rooms (with a stunning view) that were right next to each other as we would be doing alot of planning. The other four members of the documentary team arrived later in the day. They had been in Kigali interview several Rwandan officials.

Tomorrow, we go into Goma and begin working. First, a visit to the United Nations' Kibati IDP camp (The UN estimates that more than 250,000 people have been displaced since September), then an interview with some of the UN peacekeepers in the area. We will also visit there base. Lastly, we will return to Goma and interview people in the town.

The good news is that the Cease-Fire seems to be holding. The bad news is that most people around here do not think it will last long. Many believe the fighting will start up again in a couple of days. Not good for us, since we are scheduled to go to Rebel Held territory on Saturday. We are all praying for the Cease-fire to hold.

It really is hard to believe that Gisenyi is only Kilometers away from the War zone. Everything seems peaceful and calm here. We have heard that Goma is a totally different story. We will find out soon.