We entered Tanzania in quite possibly the most difficult, unorthodox, and (in hind-sight) rewarding ways possible. After our four-day overland haul we were rewarded with Zanzibar’s white white-washed Swahili architecture, lush spice plantations, and total luxury on the eastern white sand beaches. Then we made our way inland, staying with friends in Arusha, helping a bit at Living Water orphanage, and going on safari in Serengeti’s Ngorongoro Crater. From the remote border towns to the depths of the crater, we experienced a number of wacky and wonderful things that will let You Know You Are In Tanzania When….
– Pole Pole (meaning “take it slow” in Swahili) isn’t just a traffic signal, it’s a way of life.
– Even your capital city has topless tribal pedestrians (no photo, but you can ask Anne for more details).
– Your borders are patrolled by 18-foot long crocs and angry hippopotamuses.
– Your immigration officials are so nice they will negotiate a loan to help you secure an entry visa.
– Your in-boat entertainment consists solely of MTV Islam
– The only way to serve your PB&J is on chapati.
– All your street food comes on a (news)paper plate.
– When you crack open a Kilimanjaro beer because…”If you can’t climb it drink it.”
– You boast more spices than McCormick.
– Where a beach cover-up literally covers you head-to-toe (*Zanzibar is 97% Muslim)
– Your sultans over-zealous claims lead to the shortest war on world history (*38-minutes.)
– The doors of Zanzibar are such works of art you are almost afraid to knock.
– More often than not, people clarify where Americans are from with the phrase…”Oh, you’re from Obama-Land!”
– The Serengeti is so spectacular that over 5 million animals make the annual pilgrimage.
– You take up bird watching because you’ve already spotted the Big Five before lunch.
– The term “run-flat tires” takes on an entirely new meaning… especially when you literally have to run from lions (FYI: Our guide had over 15 large scars on his arm and shoulder from a lion attack).
– You find yourself on a bus full of Maasai and you are the one who stands out.
– When standing room only includes the bus’ bumper (photo taken on the way to Arusha at 80km/hour).
Love the recycled tire shoes! stay safe guys!
Tell me about it Gordo, I was this close to buying a pair, no joke. Anne had to talk me out of buying a pair from a guy who took them off and had me try them on. They were so cool, and I still regret not getting them.
– Mike
http://Facebook.com/HoneyTrek
Karibu tena Tanzania/ (Swahili)
welcome again to Tanzania
http://www.borderlesstours.con
http://www.borderlesstours.com
Mike, Pole Pole, my man. What are you eating in the street food photo? Looks ono!
oh yeah brother (same motto as hawaii right?). that street food is some serious octopus…..so GOOD!
thanks for the likes guys!
Ha, in Ghana they do the “Obama-Land” thing too! 🙂 Was so great seeing you guys in Tokyo. We must meet up in NYC when you’re back!
Jesse, too funny. At the Kenya border I heard there is even a sign that says, “welcome to Kenya, home of Obama” There’s apparently a lot of love around the contenient for our man Barack. Can’t wait to hang again in NYC. Until then, hope to see you on the blog!