Hi - This is Sarah's parents. We are in Tanzania visiting Sarah for 2 weeks. We asked if we could make an entry.
First of all we made it safely and mostly smoothly. We caught all the flights we wanted and are both healthy. Some bouts of tiredness but other than that we are doing great. Here are some impressions from the first week.
- We arrived in Dar Es Salaam. Its the Houston of TZ. Very hot,humid. On the coast. Fairly big town. Definitely Africa but the best was yet to come.
- The journey from Dar to Sumbawanga was rugged. 12 hours by bus this first day. 8 hours by car the second. The last 6 hours by car we on unpaved roads with way more pot holes than MN. But we did go through a game reserve and saw herds of giraffes, zebras, elephants and antelope. The trip was basically uphill and so the weather got more and more comfortable. The countryside is really beatiful. Nothing like what I expected.
- The culture is genuinely fascinating. Everything runs so slowly. If things are late which they always are no one minds. Everyone is patient, happy and talkative. No high BP here.
- The people are genuinely friendly. Lots of greeting. Everyone talks to everyone. I have never seen anger or frustration despite situations that would have caused riots in America.
- Sarah has made lots of friends. We run into people she know all the time. Her Swahili is very good.
- Very few cars. Tons of walkers. Everywhere. Very colorful dress.
Oops - out of time already. I could write for hours.
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Karen it was so fun to hear you story. Can't wait to hear all the details in person and see all your pictures. How much fun to see all the wildlife. You don't need to go on a safari. We'll look forward to updates as you travel. Your family has had somany wonderful experiences travelling.
ReplyDeleteWe are on San Ramon right now visiting Bode and family. I'll email some pictures later. Have safe travels. Lots of love Diane
Hi Karen,
ReplyDeleteThanks for the update. I have been praying for you - glad to hear that you made it safe & sound to Sumbawanga. What an experience! How exciting that you were able to see a mini safari on your way. I hope you are taking lots of pictures.
It must be so much fun for you to experience what Sarah's life has been like the past few months. We Americans need to take a page from the book of the Africans & slow down.... Try to relax and enjoy the pace :)
We got back late last night. I'm hoping that I will be able to call you in the next few days. I'll have to figure out the best time.
Enjoy yourselves. Make lots of memories & give Sarah Berrah a hug for me.
Much love,
Donna
Hi Joe and family,
ReplyDeleteI'm so glad you arrived safe and sound. It sounds like quite a journey so far. Best wishes and have a Happy Easter.
Nancy
p.s. Joe we're saving a bunch of work for you.