TZ Winter Amp Day 1

Day 1: Sat Jan 4  - The first day of the Tanzanian Adventure

Written by: Aishwarya Rao (Ash)

After a restful night, which was a welcome break from all the previous day's traveling, we met up for breakfast at 8:00 a.m. The spread consisted of delightful, freshly prepared eggs and a variety of side dishes to go with it. Personally, the highlight of the breakfast buffet for me, was the fresh and tasty pineapple and the refreshing Tanzanian tea that was served. 

We spent some time in the front lobby getting acquainted with the hotel staff, while we waited for Eliezer to arrive from Mbeya. Having seen the construction outside the hotel, we were not surprised that he was delayed in getting to us. However the wait was soon forgotten as we piled into two SUVs. The SUV in which Chuck, Damani, John and I were traveling in was a government vehicle and had police lights, making us feel like important celebrities! The excitement of exploring Bagamoyo was soon supplemented with a fair share of anxiety as we watched our driver navigate the traffic in Dar es Salaam. We marveled at his expertise to weave safely in and around traffic, human beings and construction as he drove us to Bagamoyo without the GPS! Bagamoyo is a town that is significant to the history of slavery in Tanzania and is situated north of Dar es Salaam. Right: The Roman Catholic Church at Bagamoyo

Once we arrived in Bagamoyo, our first task on the list was to do lunch. At the Millennium Breeze resort, we were treated to fresh juices and lip smacking Tanzanian food. Most of us got the Samaki Wa Kupaka, which was a curried fish dish that we enjoyed after a short encounter with the Indian Ocean on the pristine beach. 

Beach time at Bagamoyo (above); Tanzanian deliciousness

After lunch, we were shown around the town and visited the Roman Catholic church museum (above), which had a 156-year-old baobab tree in the garden. Our group was dwarfed by the enormous baobab tree.

After an account of the history of Bagamoyo, we were driven to the slave market, which was now converted into an artist's showcase. All of us indulged and supported the local talent by picking up souvenirs not just for ourselves, but for friends and family back home. From there, we went to see the new fish market, which seemed to be the pride of the town. We also got a glimpse into the slave port, which is now a fishing boat receiving dock. We were truly grateful to our local guides for having shown us around. On the way back, we took two breaks, to buy mangoes and to replenish our wallets before we reached the hotel. We all met up for an early dinner, where we relished some Indian food at the restaurant in the hotel accompanied by laughter and good conversations. 

So for now, it's Usiku Mwema (good night) from the Tanzanian team, as we head to bed to be well rested for the second day of our adventure.