Profile, Finale

Now that you know why I chose ACM Tanzania, you might be able to guess what I am excited about. And as you might assume, I am excited about learning a new language, meeting my host family and simply experiencing a new culture and lifestyle. As I mentioned, it is an opportunity unlike any I have ever had before. Even if I were to travel to Tanzania, I would not be able o learn the language, live at the University of Dar es Salaam, study the Maasai outside of Tarangire or archaeology within Tarangire, or live with Tanzanians. I am excited about the multiple once in a lifetime opportunities that the I hope the program will provide.

Something that you might not expect me to be excited about, however, is the food. When I travel, I usually research my destination, not wanting to make a misstep during my short stay. I read up on the sights, the lodgings, the dining, the shopping: everything that I want to see and do while I'm there. Most important to me is the food, as I think that what, how and with whom a group of people eats is the best way for a a traveler to touch into the local psyche and get a feel for a place.

For my trip to Tanzania, however, my preparations did not include research into dining, shopping, sightseeing or anything of the sort. Since I have four months in Tanzania, I can explore the people and places. I have the time to make mistakes and discover what the country has to offer me by myself, as I have more that a week or two at my destination. And, more than everything else, I cannot wait to explore Tanzania food and dining traditions. Because I am exploring Tanzania without a guidebook, I will need to depend mostly on my own experiences to learn about the people and places. Because I believe that food and dining is the most accessible window into another culture, I am very excited to explore Tanzania's eating and dining practices, from new ones in Dar es Salaam to personal ones with my host family.

But first, I have to get to Tanzania. my trip will involve stops in Sonora, Texas, Chippewa Falls, Wisconsin, and London, England. When I do get to Tanzania though, I will begin to keep my friends, family, and anyone else following my blog, informed on my adventures and misadventure. Until then, goodnight and good luck.

PS- IF YOUR INTERESTED IN HEARING ABOUT MY PRE-TRIP TRIP TO LONDON, COMMENT. IF ANYONE CARES I'M HAPPY TO SHARE.