What happens in Zanzibar stays in Zanzibar

A group of 12 volunteers decided to explore another Tanzanian culture on the magical island of Zanzibar. Little did we know what we were getting into...
Early Friday morning (5:15a.m.) we piled into taxis to take us to the bus station. There we got on the bus, which had promised "free drinks and bathrooms" enjoying the extra room enabling us to spread out, yet noticing no bathroom in sight. It wasn't until mid-drive that our "free bathroom" was indeed the great outdoors. I guess we mastered how to handle that one on the safari.

We arrived in Dar Es Salaam around 4:00p.m. and crossed our fingers that we would make it to the ferry as we piled into more taxis headed to the port. Well, we didn't make it. We chatted for awhile and a few people wanted to explore chartering a plane out there (on a teacher budget??) so we piled, yet again, into more taxis. The price they quoted us over the phone was not the price they told us at the airport. Ugh. So, we had our marvelously patient taxi drivers help us find a cheap motel, then buy tickets for the early morning ferry. (I've left out many other little frustrating details of the day, but you get the picture!)

The ferry ride over to Zanzibar proved smooth and steady. As we saw "land ahoy!" we took in all our glorious surroundings of teal blue sea, deep green trees, and creamy white sands. It was well worth the headache from the day before. We would soon be on the beach forgetting that it had taken us over 30 hours to reach our destination! And, at least we had good company.

Our pretty cheap hotel proved to be rich in character and the perfect place for hard-working volunteers to kick up their heels. A literally 1 minute walk to the beach and we were basking in the hot sun. Yes, mom, I had on plenty of sunscreen. :)

Kendwa Rocks (our hotel area) hosts a full moon party every month. Although the full moon wasn't until the 7th, the party was on the 4th. Oh, you know us Americans, we took that full moon party and turned it into a 4th of July party! A few other Americans (2 of whom attend UNC!!) beat us to the Stars & Stripes bourbon, but we toasted with some Jack Daniels (eck) to our Independence. Our wonderful Canadian friends were very good sports, as we had, just a few days earlier, sat through their rendition of "O Canada" on Canada day. I'm pretty sure we sang the Star Spangled Banner once or twice that night.

We chose to spend a long weekend at the beach since our school was off on holiday Tuesday. On Monday some folks went to swim with dolphins, but my ridiculous fear of swimming in dark water and my longing to explore Stone Town led me down that path. Stone Town is the "heart and soul" of Zanzibar. Dina and I made our way through the beautiful narrow streets to the Anglican church built where the old slave market used to be. We toured the church and learned about the horrific ways of the slave trade. It was the worst in East Africa, lasting 300 years. Approximately 60,000 people were killed each year.

We sat on the beach for awhile as locals came up to us to "practice" their English. Funny how the most common phrases were, "Will you marry me?" and "Do you love me?" Hapana asante. We found a great little restaurant overlooking the water called Mercury's, named for Freddy Mercury who was born in Zanzibar. I know I've already claimed to have seen the most beautiful sunrise ever (over the Serengeti), but now I have seen the most beautiful sunset ever! As the sun went down over the water, the sky turned the most magnificent shades of orange, yellow, and pink, which were then reflected off the clear glassy sea. Absolutely amazing.

After another lengthy journey home, we met Florence (who we hadn't seen since before safari!), Benson, and Beverly for dinner. What a scene we made! Three mzungus embracing three Africans talking about how much we missed each other! But, let me tell you, that sure did erase any traces of homesickness which were lingering!

It is hard to believe how close 12 people can get in three short weeks. The majority of my clan, including my site buddy, Erika, are leaving next week. We have all bonded so over this incredible experience that it is going to be hard to be here without them. Of course, I have already planned a fall reunion in NYC and one for the beach next year!

Today was a wonderful reunion with my pupils, as well. I jumped right back in and was even able to teach class 3 math today, my favorite! I am looking forward to a few weeks of no travel, which I will be able to devote to these kids. Tomorrow we learn traditional African dancing...