Return from Zanzibar

Last night saw the return of the Zanzibar travelers and the arrival of the second group to work at the school and experience Tanzania. Conversation is high and excitement for the new arrivals is explosive as they see, hear and smell a different culture.

This was my first trip to Zanzibar and it too is different than the mainland in culture and climate. It is tropical and Arab infuences are everywhere. The people are 87% Muslim so the clothing reflects that also. We enjoyed a relaxing time at the beach but my favorite experience was the tour of a spice farm. We took a guided walk thru a plantation/farm where the spices are grown. We were able to see the plants, trees shrubs, roots as they were growing. We saw lemongrass, peppercorns, vanilla beans, ginger root, tumeric root, iodine tree, cinnamon trees, clove trees, cacao, nutmeg shells, cardamom pods. There were also many fruits which we tasted at the end before having the opportunity to purchase spices.

It was good to be back at the school today and continue our work with the students and staff.

A few of us stayed at the lodge this afternoon while the majority went into Arusha to see the sights and shop. Tonight we have dinner with the British student volunteers and say goodbye to Kristina and Mary's brother Wayne.

Greetings to all! Earla