This coffee break took place at Jambo Beach, a recreational facility on the Kayonza side of Lake Muhazi. I was riding from Rwinkwavu to Kiramuruzi when Jambo Beach’s signpost caught my attention. It’s hard to ignore its welcoming effect.
I rolled in, parked the bike, and peeled off my riding gear. The moment I slipped my feet into a pair of flip-flops, the mood shifted. It felt like crossing an invisible line between motion and stillness—leaving behind the hum of the road for the unhurried rhythm of the lakeshore.
With a hot cup of coffee in hand, I settled into a shaded spot overlooking the water. It was early, before patrons had begun streaming in, and the place carried a calming stillness. The only sounds were the gentle rustle of leaves, the soft lap of waves against the shore, and the soothing bird calls. The breeze carried both freshness from the water and the grounding aroma of roasted beans rising from my cup.
Each sip felt like a quiet meditation—bold, earthy, and unhurried. Without the chatter of crowds or clinking of plates, the silence gave space for reflection. The lake shimmered like a giant canvas, catching the morning light, and I found myself lingering longer than planned, simply letting time stretch.
That’s the beauty of coffee breaks on the road. They aren’t only about caffeine; they’re about moments like this—where travel meets stillness, and a cup of coffee becomes the bridge.