Daily life in Tanzania

Feeling settled and now it is nearly time to go! We have made some good friends and have somehow grown some roots in this place that seemed so alien to us not that long ago. Walking through Moshi felt like walking through some mad chaos where everything looked the same. Unknown smells, different noises, “strange” people, different rules in terms of eye contact, personal space and traffic added to this chaos. It felt claustrophobic at times as well as exciting. Going into town became a major expedition and any achievement (such as buying a kitchen bin) made me elated and proud! Generally, it was impossible to find anything I wanted and after a couple of hours of wandering the streets, I would come home, usually empty handed and exhausted. Now, I see things, I see shops, items, people, fruit… It is as if life has come into focus again. I will miss it, I am sure. This laid back feel, the space, the magnificent views, the downpours, the permanent bird song, the smiles all around me and the sense of not being alone as everybody greets and talks to each other.

There is something about Africa (yes, I know it is big and not all the same), about the way of living, the way of just being, the way of not caring, the way of simplicity that is good for the soul. On the other hand, animal cruelty, child abuse, extreme poverty, lack of human rights can be very painful and raw to experience. It is certainly a place where emotions are pulled from left to right. I have taken photos of daily scenes which I pass by chance and of places I go and enjoy. Hopefully, it will transmit some of the atmosphere of the place and what we have experienced since being here.

I was not sure which photos to add so have added a selection from the past 22 months. It is like a walk through Moshi and Tanzania through photos. I have been told I get far too wistful at times in my writing so I am letting the photos do the talking this time.