New Friends

Over this trip, my mom and I discussed the joys of travel, of which we have narrowed down to three—though the rankings are still yet to be finalized—meeting new people (locals and tourists alike), seeing new sights, and tasting new food. Here is a sampling of the people who made our time together in Tanzania one we will never forget.

Andy and Kathy...a simple “where are you from?” turned into a three hour afternoon conversation...and what a joy it was! Sometimes you need to go halfway around the world to meet people who are from your own neighborhood. This charming couple captivated us with stories of their recent spectacular safari and other adventures. I hope we really will go wine tasting back in California someday, as planned!

Emerson, who enchanted us with his gourmet food, spectactular decor, warmth, jolly laugh, and fascinating life experiences. This Brooklyn-born psychologist turned Zanzibarian restauranteur lays claim to the finest food in Stonetown, served in a former Arabian palace that is now his five story hotel with rooftop restaurant overlooking the city. It was our fortune to be invited to share his table for an evening, and what a privilege it was!

The (slightly odd) German tourist in the Zanzibar airport who, upon hearing us speak English, began muttering phrases such as “See you later, Aligator!” and “Okie dokie, artichokie!” to himself as a means of enticing us into conversation. After taking the bait, we discovered this Bavarian native had very interesting commentary on American and international politics.

The Masai security guards posted along the beaches in Nungwi at each hotel entrance who whooped and hollered and ran over to greet me after they heard I spoke (a few words of) Masai language. I’m really bummed I didn’t ask to take a picture with the one wearing a pink flowered scarf and fanny pack. Shalo-balo!!

Martine, my Mwanza cab driver-turned-friend, who patiently spoke with me the entire ride back to Kitongo and graciously spelled out words and repeated phrases in Kiswahili so I could record them in my book to refer back to later. A look at my new vocabulary list reveals the twists and turns of our discussion over the course of the journey.

Nelly, who left work early to take my mom and I shopping for fabric...and then on to meet a fundi who made a dress for my mom overnight so she could wear it home the following day. Nelly, I look forward to celebrating our May birthdays together soon.

Maria, who deserves an entire blog of her own. For now, I will say this lovely Hungarian woman redefines hospitality and was one of the highlights of our trip. Maria Magdalena, you were a “divine appointment,” truly.

We were so lucky to encounter these individuals along the way who made our trip such a delight. Wherever you are tonight, may you be blessed!