How to...?

So we have been in Dar Es Salaam for 2 weeks now and we are gradually getting used to life here in Tanzania. We have been having a good introduction to the country and what it is like to live here, with a mixture of classes and talks and field trips to experience for ourselves. Our accommodation for these few weeks is close to the Indian Ocean (you can even see it from the conference room we are using for classes) and is situated amongst lots of large trees giving good shade from the fierce sun.

As well as the different sights here you are also struck by the different sounds and smells! In the UK these are often much subtler and so easier not to notice. Here they are stark and obvious. This is a big change. In fact the whole of life here seems much more interactive and colourful, you often don't have a choice whether or not you want to be involved as it comes and grabs you! When I sit back and think about this I am met with mixed feelings. Sticking with the example of smells on the one hand it means there are more bad smells, more annoying sounds to keep you awake. However on the other it means noticing nice smells, appreciating what there is and strengthening memories through that sense. I guess experiencing the good often means getting along with the bad. Something tells me Tanzania will make sure we engage with reality quite often. we shall see what this brings.