It is so hot in Dar. I really enjoyed the cooler temperatures of the north. So much nicer than in the south it is sticky and humid. I decided to leave Lushoto two days ago. It was raining to much for me to stay, it is unfortunate but 'yote maisha' or 'that's life'.
Today is a day of visiting friends and biking for the last time in the city. I will be giving my bike away to one of the young friends I met here. I think he could use it well. Will also be picking up some more artwork that a local artist is drawing for me, will be nice to see him, been a while since our last visit.
I'm off to Zanzibar tomorrow it will be nice to settle down there and relax on the beaches and just enjoy the last few days i have in Tanzania. Might even find very fast internet and be able to upload the pictures. If not then I'm sure the amazing Cassie will be gracious enough to let me use her computer for ten hours and upload over 8GB of data that I have to share with you all. So excited to do that.
I got asked to leave Sonia's place the other day. Stayed at her place the first night when I got into Dar and then yesterday she asked if I could leave. It was not personal and I truly believe that since we went to lunch to gether and had a good cry while looking at photos also. She asked to have some space the last few days of her time in Tanzania and it made perfect sense for me to leave. I must say it took a lot of courage of her to express herself that way to me. Most people wouldn't have. Thumbs up Sonia!
Nicholas
Sunday, October 25, 2009
Saturday, October 24, 2009
22/10/2009 Lushoto, Tanzania Tamaini Hotel 18:48
A different day for sure. Not filled with much sightseeing and exploring landscapes. Instead it has been a mixture of introdction to the legal system of Tanzania. I was invited to sit in on a murder trial today much of it was spoken in swahili so the facts I am not aware of but the images were striking. I scribbled some thoughts down during those moments here are some of then.
****
'A guard rests the barrel of his assualt weapon on the top of a table. His weight pushing down. A support for him to rest on to hold up his tiring body"
'I sit in the high court of Lushoto, Tanga District. The shapes around me are catching my focus.'
'The guard of the suspects is slanted in a chair, one that looks as if it has been dat on by many before him that the back rest is curved.'
'Lawyers sitting at the bar, heads down, enveloped in their hands.'
'Three suspects in a row, their dark skin in contrast with the bright walls behind them.'
'A head drops, one of the suspects has dissappeared from my eyes. I can only assume, a verdict of quilty.'
'The judge is quick and intolerrant of the prosecutions preparations. At that time, a hornet flys in the room. Will it be a witness for the trial. Not quite, it trys to leave but some one has placed a forcefield between it and the outside world. It rests on the edge of the window for it to deactivate.'
****
After the trial I was invited to go the lunch with the lawyers of the prosecution. It was uncomfortable. I felt ignored amd uncared for and mostly neglected for my presence. I had just spent 2 hours hearing nothing but swahili and was looking forward to talking about my experience. They were barely interested. My interpretation was that I was imposing myself on them at lunch. At times I would sit there for minutes with each minute being painful confusion in my mind of what to do. I attemptd to engage, discuss what I saw today. But at times I was bluntly interrupted by the lead prosecutor. My politemess, my ego surfaces and I try to derive a way to get out politly, thank you Sonia! She is a friend I met who asked me to mail a postcard for her from Lushotto since it would then have a stamp of the area, it was my saving grace. 30 mins before the offices close I excused myself, paid for my meal and left. Happy to be gone I went about my day.
Apon reflection, the three men whom were on trial and the guards around them were social with each other after the trial in a way i have not seen before. They were the last ones to leave the court house. Smiling and laughing as they awaited for the vehicle to take them to prison. It was as if the fact that two had been convicted of manslaughter and the other of murder with 4 and 6 years of prison time respectively, did not take place or maybe just another step in a journey they were too familiar of being a part.
It has rained much the last few days and unfortunately I have not been able to go up the mountains to explore the beautiful sites. Do I stay and wait a few more days, I hope the rain stops enough for the paths to become hard. My other option is to head to Dar in the morning and say so long to this place another visit needed and someday it may take place. Much to do in Dar. :) Will decide soon. Let's see if I meet anyone at Dinner.
Nicholas
PS: Got a throat infection. Received some antibiotics at mount Kilimanjaro walk in clinic, all is better now. :)
****
'A guard rests the barrel of his assualt weapon on the top of a table. His weight pushing down. A support for him to rest on to hold up his tiring body"
'I sit in the high court of Lushoto, Tanga District. The shapes around me are catching my focus.'
'The guard of the suspects is slanted in a chair, one that looks as if it has been dat on by many before him that the back rest is curved.'
'Lawyers sitting at the bar, heads down, enveloped in their hands.'
'Three suspects in a row, their dark skin in contrast with the bright walls behind them.'
'A head drops, one of the suspects has dissappeared from my eyes. I can only assume, a verdict of quilty.'
'The judge is quick and intolerrant of the prosecutions preparations. At that time, a hornet flys in the room. Will it be a witness for the trial. Not quite, it trys to leave but some one has placed a forcefield between it and the outside world. It rests on the edge of the window for it to deactivate.'
****
After the trial I was invited to go the lunch with the lawyers of the prosecution. It was uncomfortable. I felt ignored amd uncared for and mostly neglected for my presence. I had just spent 2 hours hearing nothing but swahili and was looking forward to talking about my experience. They were barely interested. My interpretation was that I was imposing myself on them at lunch. At times I would sit there for minutes with each minute being painful confusion in my mind of what to do. I attemptd to engage, discuss what I saw today. But at times I was bluntly interrupted by the lead prosecutor. My politemess, my ego surfaces and I try to derive a way to get out politly, thank you Sonia! She is a friend I met who asked me to mail a postcard for her from Lushotto since it would then have a stamp of the area, it was my saving grace. 30 mins before the offices close I excused myself, paid for my meal and left. Happy to be gone I went about my day.
Apon reflection, the three men whom were on trial and the guards around them were social with each other after the trial in a way i have not seen before. They were the last ones to leave the court house. Smiling and laughing as they awaited for the vehicle to take them to prison. It was as if the fact that two had been convicted of manslaughter and the other of murder with 4 and 6 years of prison time respectively, did not take place or maybe just another step in a journey they were too familiar of being a part.
It has rained much the last few days and unfortunately I have not been able to go up the mountains to explore the beautiful sites. Do I stay and wait a few more days, I hope the rain stops enough for the paths to become hard. My other option is to head to Dar in the morning and say so long to this place another visit needed and someday it may take place. Much to do in Dar. :) Will decide soon. Let's see if I meet anyone at Dinner.
Nicholas
PS: Got a throat infection. Received some antibiotics at mount Kilimanjaro walk in clinic, all is better now. :)
18/10/2009 'This post is protected by the blood of Jesus Christ'
Ah, laying in bed is a wonderful experience. I just took a 2.5hour journey from Arusha to Marangu. Rode in a small vehicle some what like an oversized van called 'Dala Dala' in swahili. They stop whenever someone is on the side of the road so it is the public transport of this area. Cheap, convient and relatively fast. To have some understanding of the speed, it took 2.5 hours to move 60 people, 150km for under $4CDN. Try that in Canada.
Now to the title, it was one of the stickers on the side of the daladala and I'm glad it was there. We saw the aftermath of a collision on the highway between a cargo truck and a safari jeep. We couldn't tell if anyone was hurt but it made me relize how easily it can all end on a simple drive.
I don't know why I have come to Marangu really. I don't understand at this ont what I will do but I will stay for two days and spend sometime among this area. Don't know what is in for me therefore I have no expectations. Besides I'm sure by tonight I'll have a much better idea of my path.
Smething is going on with my throat it hurts to swallow. Not sure what it might be. Trying to drink lots of juice and keep eating if it doesn not finish soon I'll have to do something more. SO on that note maybe I'll g and take a nap or tr to hold off sleeping and go for a walk. I like it here. There is rain! :)
Nicholas
Now to the title, it was one of the stickers on the side of the daladala and I'm glad it was there. We saw the aftermath of a collision on the highway between a cargo truck and a safari jeep. We couldn't tell if anyone was hurt but it made me relize how easily it can all end on a simple drive.
I don't know why I have come to Marangu really. I don't understand at this ont what I will do but I will stay for two days and spend sometime among this area. Don't know what is in for me therefore I have no expectations. Besides I'm sure by tonight I'll have a much better idea of my path.
Smething is going on with my throat it hurts to swallow. Not sure what it might be. Trying to drink lots of juice and keep eating if it doesn not finish soon I'll have to do something more. SO on that note maybe I'll g and take a nap or tr to hold off sleeping and go for a walk. I like it here. There is rain! :)
Nicholas
17/10/2009
Not much has happened between now and my last post. Staying one extra day in Arusha so that I can take it easy. Tonight I want to sit and read and drink some Redd's Beer. HAHA Well it is not exactly a beer. Let's say it is an alcoholic fruit drink in a can. Beer cans are very heavy here. You'll finish the drink but think that there is still lots left because of the feeling in your hand. Odd.
Nick
Nick
Friday, October 16, 2009
Head and face shaved....aahh
16-10-09 Yogi Hotel Cafe in Arusha, Tanzania
Another beginning? Maybe it never ends? Kate, left this morning to go and explore Zanzibar we just got back from an amazing safari. First things first, I need to visit a dentist since my jaw will not close due to how many times it dropped onto the floor. This place, that all of us call home is beautiful and filled with so much life. At the times I thought I was alone, an ostrich was dancing with me, ants were crawling over my feet and the wind was hugging my body.
I don't want to just list off the facts but the safari was 6days long we visited Tarangire, Serengeti, Ngorogoro crater, and Lake Manyara. We were lucky enough to see all the big five; rhino, elephants, waterbuffalo, lions, and a leopard in the tree eating lunch. It was quite safe but at times the animals, wild animals I should add, came very close. We once nearly got charged by an elephant at Lake Manyara.
They may be used to vehicles but just like everything else that exists, sometimes you get annoyed by humans. "Click, click, click" and elephant charges. I'm trying to get photos up as soon as possible but none of the internet is fast enough to upload them in one big swipe. I have taken many photos, approx: two thousand so far, and 3 weeks still to go. hahaha. "Pole Pole" or 'so slow' things take time. And as my bumpasticka says, "No Hurry, In Africa." I have noticed that if I go to fast, too much is seen and not enough is created. For me to form the connections that I want it takes time. Btw, if you give out your mobile number to 15 adolescents in Dar they will call you!!! Daily!
It seems like I am making plans where to go next but right now I'm staying in Arusha and hang out with the guide and cook or Christian and Geoffrey from the safari, lovely friends.
have much to say about this last week; the roads, the people, the animals, but I don't have the words. I'm not sure how to express my amazment of the things that I have experienced. I am very thankful to be able to connect deeper with more of this world and to have those around me to share the journey. Winds, ants, and ostrichs here we go....
Nicholas
Another beginning? Maybe it never ends? Kate, left this morning to go and explore Zanzibar we just got back from an amazing safari. First things first, I need to visit a dentist since my jaw will not close due to how many times it dropped onto the floor. This place, that all of us call home is beautiful and filled with so much life. At the times I thought I was alone, an ostrich was dancing with me, ants were crawling over my feet and the wind was hugging my body.
I don't want to just list off the facts but the safari was 6days long we visited Tarangire, Serengeti, Ngorogoro crater, and Lake Manyara. We were lucky enough to see all the big five; rhino, elephants, waterbuffalo, lions, and a leopard in the tree eating lunch. It was quite safe but at times the animals, wild animals I should add, came very close. We once nearly got charged by an elephant at Lake Manyara.
They may be used to vehicles but just like everything else that exists, sometimes you get annoyed by humans. "Click, click, click" and elephant charges. I'm trying to get photos up as soon as possible but none of the internet is fast enough to upload them in one big swipe. I have taken many photos, approx: two thousand so far, and 3 weeks still to go. hahaha. "Pole Pole" or 'so slow' things take time. And as my bumpasticka says, "No Hurry, In Africa." I have noticed that if I go to fast, too much is seen and not enough is created. For me to form the connections that I want it takes time. Btw, if you give out your mobile number to 15 adolescents in Dar they will call you!!! Daily!
It seems like I am making plans where to go next but right now I'm staying in Arusha and hang out with the guide and cook or Christian and Geoffrey from the safari, lovely friends.
have much to say about this last week; the roads, the people, the animals, but I don't have the words. I'm not sure how to express my amazment of the things that I have experienced. I am very thankful to be able to connect deeper with more of this world and to have those around me to share the journey. Winds, ants, and ostrichs here we go....
Nicholas
Sunday, October 4, 2009
Alot can happen in only a few days.
I haven't had a chance to write up even in my journal what has been going on for me these last three days. So here is my on the spot recollection.
I have been able to meet people through the hostel. Fantastic!!! I did really need that company of people here. And it has been wonderful. Went on Saturday to an small island, Kigamboni, it has a number of private beaches, 3000tsh to enter, they are safe and that is important since there are bandits in the area, oh yeah and they wield machettes.
The water was amazing. My first time in the indian ocean. Wow, so warm and very low salt level. It was such a nice treat to go there with Nat, another Australian who is not the biggest fan of other Australians. I wonder how Brenden and him would get along. Nat and I had a lot of similarities in our life paths and experiences. It was great to have some really good talks with him throughout the day. We took the ferry over to the island and rode a Daladala, minitaxibus, cost only 200tsh each way on the daladala and 100tsh for the ferry, wow. Transport doesn't have to be expensive.
Got my sandles repaired by a street shoe man. He was really nice and helped nat and I find food to eat also. Some really good roasted chicken. The flavour was awesome. Yes! I ate chicken. hehe.
That night a good friend from the hostel and I went out to see the town at night. We went to a seaside cliff and stood in the gusting shore winds and talked about self-respect and confidence. Interested that we did since the next day he gave his notice at the hostel. hehe. We then went for a ride and stopped into a nightclub, I had to go back to the car since I had my knife on me, there was security at the club. Tons of people in the place. Really great music. My type of mixes, two DJs throwing it back and forth. I danced a great deal. So much that the power went out. hahahaha, yep even the night clubs run on city electricity. So, me being me, I said, "I don't need music to dance." I go on the danceful, infront of maybe 200 people and start dancing by myself. The crowd starts to holler and cheer. Soon and woman joins me on the dance floor, turns out she is a prostitute, wasn't surprised to be honest. While we are dancing suddenly a beer bottle is thrown from the balcony and smashes on the dance floor. Nearly hitting us. I get off and throw my hands up in disgust by the action. I was, like usuall, enjoying being the centre of attention. It was a fun night that ended shortly after the bottle was thrown, I say goodbye to the hooker and head out to the car, she follows, I happily say no again!
We got home at around 4am, I slept til 2pm, a good long sleep. Felt like I caught up on all the sleep lost the other days. So what do you do on a Sunday afternoon in Dar Es Salaam. Take your bike out for a nice ride, find a group of ten 15year old boys also riding/racing on the roads and join them. Ride all the way out of town to their homes. The best way I can describe this experience was breathtaking. To have the kids want to have me join them, show me their homes in the slums, and ride with me all the way back into town at night, on the highway, and without any lights was breathtaking. Such loving spirits each of them had. I was thankful to join them and take them all for a soda drink at the local drinking spot in the village. They are fast. I was thinking about this whole exprience for me and thought about what it must be like for the youth to see someone like myself riding a bike, to be interested in joining them for their Sunday bike ride. All of us there saw it different ways, but no matter what each one of us had a storey to tell. I am glad I could show them my spirit and happiness to ride the city streets with them. A powerful moment I hope not to forget. and holy crap was it scary at night with the buses passing within a couple of feet. As the boys would say, "night night, so slow." And we did, go slow.
Nick
I have been able to meet people through the hostel. Fantastic!!! I did really need that company of people here. And it has been wonderful. Went on Saturday to an small island, Kigamboni, it has a number of private beaches, 3000tsh to enter, they are safe and that is important since there are bandits in the area, oh yeah and they wield machettes.
The water was amazing. My first time in the indian ocean. Wow, so warm and very low salt level. It was such a nice treat to go there with Nat, another Australian who is not the biggest fan of other Australians. I wonder how Brenden and him would get along. Nat and I had a lot of similarities in our life paths and experiences. It was great to have some really good talks with him throughout the day. We took the ferry over to the island and rode a Daladala, minitaxibus, cost only 200tsh each way on the daladala and 100tsh for the ferry, wow. Transport doesn't have to be expensive.
Got my sandles repaired by a street shoe man. He was really nice and helped nat and I find food to eat also. Some really good roasted chicken. The flavour was awesome. Yes! I ate chicken. hehe.
That night a good friend from the hostel and I went out to see the town at night. We went to a seaside cliff and stood in the gusting shore winds and talked about self-respect and confidence. Interested that we did since the next day he gave his notice at the hostel. hehe. We then went for a ride and stopped into a nightclub, I had to go back to the car since I had my knife on me, there was security at the club. Tons of people in the place. Really great music. My type of mixes, two DJs throwing it back and forth. I danced a great deal. So much that the power went out. hahahaha, yep even the night clubs run on city electricity. So, me being me, I said, "I don't need music to dance." I go on the danceful, infront of maybe 200 people and start dancing by myself. The crowd starts to holler and cheer. Soon and woman joins me on the dance floor, turns out she is a prostitute, wasn't surprised to be honest. While we are dancing suddenly a beer bottle is thrown from the balcony and smashes on the dance floor. Nearly hitting us. I get off and throw my hands up in disgust by the action. I was, like usuall, enjoying being the centre of attention. It was a fun night that ended shortly after the bottle was thrown, I say goodbye to the hooker and head out to the car, she follows, I happily say no again!
We got home at around 4am, I slept til 2pm, a good long sleep. Felt like I caught up on all the sleep lost the other days. So what do you do on a Sunday afternoon in Dar Es Salaam. Take your bike out for a nice ride, find a group of ten 15year old boys also riding/racing on the roads and join them. Ride all the way out of town to their homes. The best way I can describe this experience was breathtaking. To have the kids want to have me join them, show me their homes in the slums, and ride with me all the way back into town at night, on the highway, and without any lights was breathtaking. Such loving spirits each of them had. I was thankful to join them and take them all for a soda drink at the local drinking spot in the village. They are fast. I was thinking about this whole exprience for me and thought about what it must be like for the youth to see someone like myself riding a bike, to be interested in joining them for their Sunday bike ride. All of us there saw it different ways, but no matter what each one of us had a storey to tell. I am glad I could show them my spirit and happiness to ride the city streets with them. A powerful moment I hope not to forget. and holy crap was it scary at night with the buses passing within a couple of feet. As the boys would say, "night night, so slow." And we did, go slow.
Nick
Friday, October 2, 2009
Phone Number
I say it again, mobile networks outside of Canada and the US are years ahead of them. I bought a sim card and some credit today, guess how much that cost me? Gone on make a descent guess. 10,000 Tsh($10CDN)? No. Come on be serious. It cost me $1CDN a thousand shillings and I have a phone that works. For 30,000Tsh, you get a phone and balance on it at the start. Amazing. Just amazing.
So my number is:
+255 778 255518
That is a Zantel network phone.
You can text me and call me anytime you want. There is a ten hour difference between Victoria and Dar so be kind.
Goodnight.
Nicholas
So my number is:
+255 778 255518
That is a Zantel network phone.
You can text me and call me anytime you want. There is a ten hour difference between Victoria and Dar so be kind.
Goodnight.
Nicholas
02/10/09 A mixed bag of emotions
Location: Room 111, Jambo Inn 04:00
An amazing day of emotions and firsts today. I managed to fall asleep at 7am yesterday after writing my last post. I was only awoken because of the hostel staff were banging on my door. No problems, just checking in on me. I went downstairs to the restaurant in the hostel, ate some lunch, veggies in sauce and rice. It cost 8000tsh(Tanzanian shillings) about 8 dollars. Not bad but could have used more flavour, SALT!! I walked around a bunch yesterday hassled by a few guys at a park needed to leave suddenly. They startd walking towards me, and I could just tell that the situation did not look safe. You look someone in the eyes as I did to these men as they approached me. I didn't like what I saw. I stood up quickly to show my agility, grabbed my metal Sigg water bottle and clasped it in my right hand, use what you have as a weapon. I was in no mood. I walked straight towards one of them. I moved with a strong confident pace before the other two got closer. We pass each other and he says, "No parking." I speak back that I was sitting not parking but kept walking creating space now between me and them. My ears were on high alert. Listen intently incase they were running after me. Nothing. One of them yells and says, "This is my soldier." I don't look back to see, keep walking I say to myself. The area is surrounded all the way round except for the entrance. I am heading to that gate right beside the police post station. I'm thing to myself, head straight ahead, get through the gates, cross the road, don't lead them to the hostel, get lost within the crowd if they are following me. I do exactly that.
While walking a street agent tries to talk with me, I'm in no mood. I keep walking. A younger one of the agents calls at me and says, "You like to walk alot." I had passed that street many times in the morning. It is the same as the hostel. I yell back to him, "Yes I do, and quickly too." I keep walking. Now heading to a calling cafe. I call back home, as I sobb on the phone talking with home I began to feel better, a lighter feeling comes over me. I was upset with what just happened but more importantly what I had come to terms with what that i was alone. A good cry was needed. I finished the call and headed back to the hostel I went inside a different hostel first incase those men were still following. Waited a few minutes, no sign of them thankfully. I headed home for the night where I soon did what I do best. Be social.
I walk through the restaurant doors and take a quick scan of the room, some familar faces. I see a woman doing Sudoku at one of the tables. I first walk past thinking, hey there is an opportunity for conversations. Then I pull a Breden, ;) and think no she is probably thinks that I am hitting on her. Immediately, I remind myself of who I am and dive into a chat with her. We have a great time chatting and meet up later to chat more. While talking with her I realized how opened and free of the sadness since talking with keely and this woman, Carolynna. I am grateful for letting go of things easily, I can only live in the now. At times you need to smile and other times cry.
Tomorrow a new day, looks like I might be able to go to the sites of the BikeTown next week with one of th local coordinators. I also got an email from a woman who is in a similar situation as myself, she can't cancel her tickets to Dar next week so we shall meet up and do some exploring. So things are looking up. Beside I have coordinated to rent a bike for the next few days also. That should just be awesome!! Bicycling thes crazy streets. But it will be worth it, another story maybe. Walking is just too slow, besides Taxi drivers will stop asking if I need a ride. :) I think they all love me since the airport incident. :)
Nicholas
An amazing day of emotions and firsts today. I managed to fall asleep at 7am yesterday after writing my last post. I was only awoken because of the hostel staff were banging on my door. No problems, just checking in on me. I went downstairs to the restaurant in the hostel, ate some lunch, veggies in sauce and rice. It cost 8000tsh(Tanzanian shillings) about 8 dollars. Not bad but could have used more flavour, SALT!! I walked around a bunch yesterday hassled by a few guys at a park needed to leave suddenly. They startd walking towards me, and I could just tell that the situation did not look safe. You look someone in the eyes as I did to these men as they approached me. I didn't like what I saw. I stood up quickly to show my agility, grabbed my metal Sigg water bottle and clasped it in my right hand, use what you have as a weapon. I was in no mood. I walked straight towards one of them. I moved with a strong confident pace before the other two got closer. We pass each other and he says, "No parking." I speak back that I was sitting not parking but kept walking creating space now between me and them. My ears were on high alert. Listen intently incase they were running after me. Nothing. One of them yells and says, "This is my soldier." I don't look back to see, keep walking I say to myself. The area is surrounded all the way round except for the entrance. I am heading to that gate right beside the police post station. I'm thing to myself, head straight ahead, get through the gates, cross the road, don't lead them to the hostel, get lost within the crowd if they are following me. I do exactly that.
While walking a street agent tries to talk with me, I'm in no mood. I keep walking. A younger one of the agents calls at me and says, "You like to walk alot." I had passed that street many times in the morning. It is the same as the hostel. I yell back to him, "Yes I do, and quickly too." I keep walking. Now heading to a calling cafe. I call back home, as I sobb on the phone talking with home I began to feel better, a lighter feeling comes over me. I was upset with what just happened but more importantly what I had come to terms with what that i was alone. A good cry was needed. I finished the call and headed back to the hostel I went inside a different hostel first incase those men were still following. Waited a few minutes, no sign of them thankfully. I headed home for the night where I soon did what I do best. Be social.
I walk through the restaurant doors and take a quick scan of the room, some familar faces. I see a woman doing Sudoku at one of the tables. I first walk past thinking, hey there is an opportunity for conversations. Then I pull a Breden, ;) and think no she is probably thinks that I am hitting on her. Immediately, I remind myself of who I am and dive into a chat with her. We have a great time chatting and meet up later to chat more. While talking with her I realized how opened and free of the sadness since talking with keely and this woman, Carolynna. I am grateful for letting go of things easily, I can only live in the now. At times you need to smile and other times cry.
Tomorrow a new day, looks like I might be able to go to the sites of the BikeTown next week with one of th local coordinators. I also got an email from a woman who is in a similar situation as myself, she can't cancel her tickets to Dar next week so we shall meet up and do some exploring. So things are looking up. Beside I have coordinated to rent a bike for the next few days also. That should just be awesome!! Bicycling thes crazy streets. But it will be worth it, another story maybe. Walking is just too slow, besides Taxi drivers will stop asking if I need a ride. :) I think they all love me since the airport incident. :)
Nicholas
Thursday, October 1, 2009
30/09/09 Life happens for me not to me.
Much has happened since I last wrote from Vancouver while in Eren's appartment the day of my departure. Had a day in Amsterdam but something has happened. How can I say it all but not drag on. Well first let's start from the beginning which in my eyes now was actually the end of my planned trip. :)
The flight from Vancouver was what I expected it to be. Full plane, little leg room especially since some engineer decided that it was a perfect places for a metal component box, food was good, got the pasta option. Arrived in Amsterdam ahead of schedule and reached the city quickly with trains. God I love trains. The best form of fast transport. I began exploring the area, happended to walk right in the red light district. Not much to really see there. Women behind glass doors trying to intice men and couples in. I received many waves, winks, and hand gestures to come inside. Can't say I did. When I looked into the eyes of these women it was void of connection. I understood quickly that they were working. Hoping, wanting and wishing for the next client or the next 50 euros for 15mins. I had been asked if I wanted sex a few times when in Budapest. This was different. The product is the same 'sexual attention/affection/desires trying to be satisfied by clients but the providers are like many things on a spectrum, on one end we have providers who have complete control of how they work, when, who, how, where, etc. OIn the other end they are those whom have zero control to those boundaries.
I biked in Amsterdam!!! I went on a tour of the city with some others. Great fun. Raining the entire time. Got soaked, everything in Amsterdam costs money except the rain!! I rode without a helmut. I know, Inkow, surprised faces of those reading this. But it was great!!! Small allies, quick passes by cars swerving in and out of traffic watching for trams, cars, busses, scooters, and hundreds of people. Big smiles on my face most of the time, was really great to bike free to ride on the road again.
After dinner I headed back to the hotel. Thought to myself that I might as well check my email before bed. WOW!!! Good idea nick. This is when everything changed and the new beginning starts. Ok, so here is the news. Due to beaucratic problems with the bicycles processing at customs BikeTown Africa(Tanzania) has been delayed indefinately. That's right! The enitre purpose of this trip has fallen through at this time. Mere hours before boarding my flight I find out about this information. There is a slim chance that I will be able to participate in the program stil. Right now we are looking at a 2-3week delay. I'm here for 5 weeks! So I quickly thought of my options after reading this; go anyways, cancel everything, or run for president of Tanzania and make an excutive order to get the bikes through on Monday. Well both the later of the three didn't seem reasonable so I went to the airport the next morning, loaded onto the plane and arrived last night.
Thank you to all of you that I have heard from or spoken to encouraging me to more forward and go. It is a huge comfort to have your support.
Since arriving I've had a caucasian drunk fall on me, anxiety about obtaining a VISA and cause a 12 man, discussion(shouting match over which driver will take me to the hostel) outside the airport. It worked out most fairly in my opinion with one man losing out. He was attempting to take customers away from the taxi drivers. He is a travel agent and at times tries to get fares from the airport. The course of events was the perfect situation to cause a stir. I tried standing back and letting it progress to whatever point it was to become. I began smiling half way through the arguments. I couldn't nor wouldn't say no to this happening. "Welcome to Tanzania," Diana, one to the airport information officers, says to me. "Sorry it has to start this way." I tell her quickly that I am enjoying my self. That this is a real event. Not structured or organized in some package that I bought online. These types of events makes me whom I am today. I lay here here under my mossy met in my underwear with the fan on and mildly sweating, and I am thankful.
Soon security got involved and I was told that I get to make a choice bwtween the taxi or the personal driver. I asked him what would be better for the airport in the future? He looks at me and says, "Taxi." I quickly say to him, "Ok, I think so too." I turn around suddenly, at the same time as I yelled 'alright!' my hand comes down hitting the metal barrier beside me. A loud affirmative crash echos in the small tight area grabbing everyones attention. I tell the men that I will take a taxi. I thank the personal driver for his help and patience. He new what he had done was risky. The drivers spoke up and he got caught. I believe the reason he stayed around so long is because he was trying to save face in the end. I can imagine them all sitting down later and having tea together. Enjoying each others company on a social level. The airport situation was business, and truly nothing personal whatsoever.
As I walked with my Taxi driver to the taxi official table all the other drivers begin to applauding and cheering their victory. It was a wonderful situation to experience.
It is now half past midnight and I'm sleepy. Goodnight.
Nicholas
The flight from Vancouver was what I expected it to be. Full plane, little leg room especially since some engineer decided that it was a perfect places for a metal component box, food was good, got the pasta option. Arrived in Amsterdam ahead of schedule and reached the city quickly with trains. God I love trains. The best form of fast transport. I began exploring the area, happended to walk right in the red light district. Not much to really see there. Women behind glass doors trying to intice men and couples in. I received many waves, winks, and hand gestures to come inside. Can't say I did. When I looked into the eyes of these women it was void of connection. I understood quickly that they were working. Hoping, wanting and wishing for the next client or the next 50 euros for 15mins. I had been asked if I wanted sex a few times when in Budapest. This was different. The product is the same 'sexual attention/affection/desires trying to be satisfied by clients but the providers are like many things on a spectrum, on one end we have providers who have complete control of how they work, when, who, how, where, etc. OIn the other end they are those whom have zero control to those boundaries.
I biked in Amsterdam!!! I went on a tour of the city with some others. Great fun. Raining the entire time. Got soaked, everything in Amsterdam costs money except the rain!! I rode without a helmut. I know, Inkow, surprised faces of those reading this. But it was great!!! Small allies, quick passes by cars swerving in and out of traffic watching for trams, cars, busses, scooters, and hundreds of people. Big smiles on my face most of the time, was really great to bike free to ride on the road again.
After dinner I headed back to the hotel. Thought to myself that I might as well check my email before bed. WOW!!! Good idea nick. This is when everything changed and the new beginning starts. Ok, so here is the news. Due to beaucratic problems with the bicycles processing at customs BikeTown Africa(Tanzania) has been delayed indefinately. That's right! The enitre purpose of this trip has fallen through at this time. Mere hours before boarding my flight I find out about this information. There is a slim chance that I will be able to participate in the program stil. Right now we are looking at a 2-3week delay. I'm here for 5 weeks! So I quickly thought of my options after reading this; go anyways, cancel everything, or run for president of Tanzania and make an excutive order to get the bikes through on Monday. Well both the later of the three didn't seem reasonable so I went to the airport the next morning, loaded onto the plane and arrived last night.
Thank you to all of you that I have heard from or spoken to encouraging me to more forward and go. It is a huge comfort to have your support.
Since arriving I've had a caucasian drunk fall on me, anxiety about obtaining a VISA and cause a 12 man, discussion(shouting match over which driver will take me to the hostel) outside the airport. It worked out most fairly in my opinion with one man losing out. He was attempting to take customers away from the taxi drivers. He is a travel agent and at times tries to get fares from the airport. The course of events was the perfect situation to cause a stir. I tried standing back and letting it progress to whatever point it was to become. I began smiling half way through the arguments. I couldn't nor wouldn't say no to this happening. "Welcome to Tanzania," Diana, one to the airport information officers, says to me. "Sorry it has to start this way." I tell her quickly that I am enjoying my self. That this is a real event. Not structured or organized in some package that I bought online. These types of events makes me whom I am today. I lay here here under my mossy met in my underwear with the fan on and mildly sweating, and I am thankful.
Soon security got involved and I was told that I get to make a choice bwtween the taxi or the personal driver. I asked him what would be better for the airport in the future? He looks at me and says, "Taxi." I quickly say to him, "Ok, I think so too." I turn around suddenly, at the same time as I yelled 'alright!' my hand comes down hitting the metal barrier beside me. A loud affirmative crash echos in the small tight area grabbing everyones attention. I tell the men that I will take a taxi. I thank the personal driver for his help and patience. He new what he had done was risky. The drivers spoke up and he got caught. I believe the reason he stayed around so long is because he was trying to save face in the end. I can imagine them all sitting down later and having tea together. Enjoying each others company on a social level. The airport situation was business, and truly nothing personal whatsoever.
As I walked with my Taxi driver to the taxi official table all the other drivers begin to applauding and cheering their victory. It was a wonderful situation to experience.
It is now half past midnight and I'm sleepy. Goodnight.
Nicholas
It Begins! 28/09/09
Today, I believe is the first day of my trip. I will be alone in Vancouver. Set free to explore the area, eat food and ride the Canada Line to the airport. Like usual I'm worried I won't have the right stuff for the trip. Doing last minute shopping at MEC and other shops, inorder to feel confident that all will be well.
I reall don't know what I am about to be exposed to during this time in Tanzania. It is too hard to tell before I get there. It still seems far away and it is. A full 53hours at this point. It has the appearance of being really close but a lot can happen between now and then. I will just be myself, let the emotions pass through my body like a wave.
I will be writing this blog by hand first, finally using those books I bought 2 years ago, then once I gain access to a computer I while type them up. So we all might see a bunch of posts happen at once and then nothing for a week or so. It is a great editing tool too, as I just found out. 'hehe' Wouldn't you like to know what I just deleted. :P
My best wishes to you all feel free to follow the blog link below, if you want. Some times I will be funny sometimes boring but if you are a voyeur. than it doesn't matter. :)
- Nicholas
I reall don't know what I am about to be exposed to during this time in Tanzania. It is too hard to tell before I get there. It still seems far away and it is. A full 53hours at this point. It has the appearance of being really close but a lot can happen between now and then. I will just be myself, let the emotions pass through my body like a wave.
I will be writing this blog by hand first, finally using those books I bought 2 years ago, then once I gain access to a computer I while type them up. So we all might see a bunch of posts happen at once and then nothing for a week or so. It is a great editing tool too, as I just found out. 'hehe' Wouldn't you like to know what I just deleted. :P
My best wishes to you all feel free to follow the blog link below, if you want. Some times I will be funny sometimes boring but if you are a voyeur. than it doesn't matter. :)
- Nicholas
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