Geek in Dar es Salaam

            Hello, my friends, and hamjambo? from Tanzania.

Although I’m not in Mozambique these days, I decided to continue this blog rather than begin a new one. After all, I’m still as much of a geek as ever, so why complicate things? Anyway, this time I am in Tanzania for a semester-long study abroad program, which is located in Iringa and Mufindi.

This week, we are going through an orientation in Dar es Salaam, one of Tanzania’s most important economic centers. There are only a few students in the program—four, including myself, so we will probably become like a little family (or mortal enemies). This week we met our program director, Jenny, and we began our Kiswahili lessons with Bwana (Mr.) Paulo. Our activities have included a trip to the lovely Mbudya Island Marine Reserve, where we enjoyed some delicious fresh grilled blackfish and dazzling views.

Today, Bw. Paulo took us to the city, including a trip to the National Museum.

We also visited the village museum, which was set up like a village of traditional houses typical of several of the many different tribes living in Tanzania.

We were even graced with some traditional Makonde dances.

I’ll leave you with those images from my first few days in Tanzania for now. I hope you have a great week, and I'll "see" you soon!