Wednesday, September 3, 2014

Hujambo Tanzania!!!

I made it! Yes after 2 very long flights, group 1 made it to Tanzania with little hassle. Only 2 girls lost their luggage (including my banda mate) but it was retrieved today. 

Obligatory plane picture
After arriving late on Monday night, we spent the night in Arusha before driving another 2 hours to our campus in Rhotia. On our way we saw many herds of goats and sheep and cows but we also got our first taste of wildlife when we passed a troop of baboons. If you look closely you can see the baby clinging to the mama's belly!
Mamma baboon and baby
Group 1 was lucky enough to get an extra day at camp to get acquainted with town and each other. We explored the town of Rhotia last night and had a friendly game of soccer, which I opted to watch from the sidelines for now!

It seems like every time we leave out compound we are ambushed by tiny humans. Some how I always get surrounded and somewhat separated from my group mates and herded by the little ones. The little ones will asked me questions in swahili and then laugh hysterically when I try to answer or when I try to ask them questions. A few older girls asked me where I am from and how old I am and were clearly eager to practice their english. 

Both encounters with adorable children yesterday occurred when I did not have my camera handy, which was a blessing in disguise. They are obsessed with cameras and pictures! This morning on our way back from our hike on Moyo Hill  we encountered a group on their way to school. This little guy wanted to touch every camera and press all the buttons! He even took off my watch and tried to put it on! It was a harmless action and he clearly thought it was just the coolest bracelet ever. :)

Mr. Grabby
I'll finish things off with the view from the top of Moyo Hill. It was a relatively short hike but rough because of the altitude. We are about 5,000 ft above sea level here. 

Moyo Hill
I absolutely love Tanzania and everyone I've met, students, locals, staff, everyone! I cannot wait to start classes tomorrow and continue my adventure!


2 comments:

  1. I'm not surprised that the little ones are drawn to you. Mr. Grabby is so adorable!

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  2. Glad to see you arrived safely. Mr. grabby is adorable!

    ReplyDelete