2 hours drive through southern Iraq down to the city of al Hillah. The journey wasn't too bad as the roads are in a reasonable condition (albeit with no signage whatsoever) and we were only stopped at one checkpoint on the way down. al Hillah feels much more 'normal' than Baghdad as although there are checkpoints and military vehicles around the place there are far more people in the streets and kids playing etc. The set-up down there is pretty good and the guys have a decent standard of living, the project is well run and more importantly they have a good relationship with the local community due to the way we operate and the fact that we are providing employment in the area. There was an IED literally round the corner from the base the other day which fortunately was spotted by a local who immediately informed the authorities and the camp security officer preventing anyone getting injured. Really useful seeing the place and doing a Q&A session with the guys. On the journey back the whole team were pulled at a checkpoint on the outskirts of Baghdad, they searched the car, the contents and all the passengers. Slightly disconcerting for me as I was segregated from the guys but it was all over and we were back on the road before I had time to start worrying. It does feel bizarre sitting at an Iraqi checkpoint waiting for some form of clearance, sweltering in a flack jacket and helmet 3 sizes too big, in temperatures of 45° accompanied by the H.R. Director who's toting an AK47. Still can't quite believe some days....