You Know You’re in Tanzania When…

By On November 15, 2012 · 7 Comments · In Africa, Destinations, Tanzania

Pole Pole means slowly slowly in Swahili, Tanzania
We entered Tanzania in quite possibly the most difficult, unorthodox, and (in hind-sight) rewarding ways possible. After our four-day overland haul we were rewarded with Zanzibar’s white white-washed Swahili architecture, lush spice plantations, and total luxury on the eastern white sand beaches. Then we made our way inland, staying with friends in Arusha, helping a bit at Living Water orphanage, and going on safari in Serengeti’s Ngorongoro Crater. From the remote border towns to the depths of the crater, we experienced a number of wacky and wonderful things that will let You Know You Are In Tanzania When….

- Pole Pole (meaning “take it slow” in Swahili) isn’t just a traffic signal, it’s a way of life.

- Even your capital city has topless tribal pedestrians (no photo, but you can ask Anne for more details).

 

Border between Mozambique and Tanzania
- Your borders are patrolled by 18-foot long crocs and angry hippopotamuses.

- Your immigration officials are so nice they will negotiate a loan to help you secure an entry visa.

 

Muslim Karaoke on Zanzibar
- Your in-boat entertainment consists solely of MTV Islam

- The only way to serve your PB&J is on chapati.

 

Eating seafood in Zanzibar, Tanzania
- All your street food comes on a (news)paper plate.

- When you crack open a Kilimanjaro beer because…”If you can’t climb it drink it.”

 

Spice tour of Zanzibar, Tanzania nutmeg
- You boast more spices than McCormick.

- Where a beach cover-up literally covers you head-to-toe (*Zanzibar is 97% Muslim)

- Your sultans over-zealous claims lead to the shortest war on world history (*38-minutes.)

 

The wooden doors of zanzibar
- The doors of Zanzibar are such works of art you are almost afraid to knock.

- More often than not, people clarify where Americans are from with the phrase…”Oh, you’re from Obama-Land!”

 

Wildebeest migration Serengeti Maasai Mara
- The Serengeti is so spectacular that over 5 million animals make the annual pilgrimage.

 

Ostrich in Ngorongoro Crater, Tanzania
- You take up bird watching because you’ve already spotted the Big Five before lunch.

 

Tire shoes in Tanzania
- The term “run-flat tires” takes on an entirely new meaning… especially when you literally have to run from lions (FYI: Our guide had over 15 large scars on his arm and shoulder from a lion attack).

- You find yourself on a bus full of Maasai and you are the one who stands out.

 

Riding on the bumper of a car in Tanzania
- When standing room only includes the bus’ bumper (photo taken on the way to Arusha at 80km/hour).

Jessica Benford-Balahura, Honeymoons.com, 2people1life, Somnath Simkhada, David Carillet, Ken Webster, Jim Steere liked this post
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  • Lee Rider

    Love the recycled tire shoes! stay safe guys!

    • http://HoneyTrek.com/ Mike Howard – HoneyTrek.com

      Tell me about it Gordo, I was this close to buying a pair, no joke. Anne had to talk me out of buying a pair from a guy who took them off and had me try them on. They were so cool, and I still regret not getting them.
      - Mike
      http://Facebook.com/HoneyTrek

  • Jeffery Whalen

    Mike, Pole Pole, my man. What are you eating in the street food photo? Looks ono!

    • http://HoneyTrek.com/ Mike Howard – HoneyTrek.com

      oh yeah brother (same motto as hawaii right?). that street food is some serious octopus…..so GOOD!

  • Jessica Festa

    Ha, in Ghana they do the “Obama-Land” thing too! :) Was so great seeing you guys in Tokyo. We must meet up in NYC when you’re back!

    • http://HoneyTrek.com/ Mike Howard – HoneyTrek.com

      Jesse, too funny. At the Kenya border I heard there is even a sign that says, “welcome to Kenya, home of Obama” There’s apparently a lot of love around the contenient for our man Barack. Can’t wait to hang again in NYC. Until then, hope to see you on the blog!