I’m lying in my little bed in the Econolodge in the middle of downtown Dar Es Salaam, a sprawling city of 3 million or so. We arrived safe and sound and with all luggage accounted for about an hour after the sunset, so despite having spent 6 waking hours in the city, I still don’t really have a feel for it. I can’t wait though. I’ve got a taste and I think I’m going to love it.
The flight from Zurich was long, but good. The newer airplane they had us in was considerably better than the first and I managed to catch a few winks, pretzeled as I was in my seat. It was an incredible feeling watching the little airplane animation as we crossed over the Mediteranean and over African soil for the first time. Looking down over vast stretches of dunes was amazing.
Arriving in Dar was smooth. No problems, no delays, no issues getting to the hotel, which at night feels as if it’s in a sketchy neighbourhood, but I remember feeling the same way when we’ve landed at night at the various all inclusives down south. I’m sure the light of day will correct at least some of this first impressions.
Something that’s struck me so far has been the number of people out and about, hanging out on steps of buildings, sitting and chatting in small groups or hawking bunches of bananas. People are everywhere. This will likely be one of the biggest cultural differences to get used to.
Alright, must get to bed… people are planning on jogging in the morning and I have not yet ruled out this possibility. We’ll see how I’m feeling when the call to prayer wakes me up in 3 and a half hours…
Tristan, great to hear you got there with everything safe and sound. I feel for you with the sardine airline seats and little beds. Already I want some pictures to see what you are seeing. Maybe even a video-I'm greedy I know. Liking how you are describing things and using adjectives-gives me a better sense of it, so keep the adjectives coming. A few metaphors would be lovely too. Loving that you are doing the blog Tristan. Love mom
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