[1] re: It is unlikely that Vasco da Gama would have traveled all the way to Kenya - without having made some arrangements for the onward route, Tony de Sa wrote:"Is debatable. There being no means of communication other than by courier in those days, it is just possible that VDG entered Lamu / Mombasa..."
[2] re: This resulted in many many residents of the subcontinent NOT being forcibly circumcised, Tony de Sa wrote: "I am surprised, Doc, that as a reputable Medic you should shun circumcision. I am informed by usually reliable medical sources ..." [3] re: re-obtaining Portuguese nationality and be gainfully employed in Lisbon, Tony de Sa wrote: "don't forget to mention the hordes of them in Swindon and other places in Europe thanks to the open border policy of the European Union. COMMENT: Dear Prof de Sa, re [1] While your statements might be absolutely correct and notwithstanding that I was not in Kenya when Vasco da Gama arrived from Belem (Lisbon), I have reason to believe that Portuguese travelers (i.e. scouts) were already in East Africa antes the arrival of VDG there. I'd suggest that the scouts were there even prior to the planning of the trip. re [2] While the point being made was in reference to FORCED circumcision, I bow to your medical knowledge. Perhaps, there also is a time honoured reason for another circumcision i.e. female circumcision. re [3] I did mean Lisbon. BTW: The ability for Portuguese Goans to enter the UK and look for employment is not related to the 'open borders' policy to which the UK does not subscribe (except with Ireland). And while the 'open borders' policy is in danger of being revoked, it will - until further notice - NOT affect the Art 25 (Movement of Persons - EC law) right of Portuguese Goans to enter the UK (or any of the full member-states of the EU) for the purposes of seeking employment. Sincerely jc
