I am registered with the US State Dept. to receive updates on Zim. Yesterday, they issued a "Zimbabwe Consular Information Sheet" on the crime, tourism, etc. I am still reading but, so far, see nothing to make me cancel my August trip.

http://travel.state.gov/travel/cis_pa_tw/cis/cis_1063.html

Where are you going to be in Zim and what dates? I'm scheduled in-country late Aug. Maybe you will be back and can provide an update?
G

Going to be there in late August and early September, hunting in the Makuti area. Excited about the trip. International travel is frequently characterized by "issues". Be careful, be aware and have a good time.

We drove through a part of Zim for about 6 hours a week ago on our way to Mozambique, as we do every year.

The cash we kept from 6 months ago was laughed at when offered for payment as it is "old money" and worthless due to the out-of-control and rampant inflation. The place looks even more neglected than a year ago and the road-side stalls selling artefats and mats etc are now few and far in between. There are just not many people going there anymore I guess. Fuel availability is still a problem.

As long as you hook up with a good outfitter, you should be OK. We never felt unsafe or anything, but the place is "tired" and taking strain. It still is a beautiful country.

"People in the know" reckon it'll carry on for another year before it finally breaks and falls over ...

GaryL
To Bulawayo Aug 1 - Aug 9. Gokwe.