Welcome to Tanzania the land of Kilimanjaro, Zanzibar and Serengeti

 

Tanzania Unveiled: Your Gateway to Paradise - From Lake Natron to Zanzibar's Beauty and Serengeti's Sunset Splendor 

Karibu Tanzania 

Welcome back to our global escapades with Pennywise and Passport Foolish, where we traverse the world on a shoestring budget. Today, our compass points towards Southeast Africa, to the land that means the world to me, the land where I took my first breath. They call it Tanzania, simply I  call it home.

So, for the next few weeks, I am thrilled to extend an invitation to you to explore the most beautiful country in the world. Yes, you heard me right - the most beautiful place on Earth. After all, as the saying goes, east or west, home is always the best. Tanzania is blessed with unparalleled beauty, from the majestic heights of Mount Kilimanjaro, the national parks like Mikumi, Manyara, Serengeti, and Ngorongoro, to the serene coastal paradise of Saadani, the enchanting islands of Unguja, Pemba, and Mafia, and the mystical Lake Natron where animals turn to stone.

Let's not forget the breathtaking Lake Tanganyika and the legendary source of the Nile, Lake Victoria. And oh, the anticipation of welcoming you to the heart of Tanzania - Dodoma, where my roots run deep and Houston, Texas, shaped the woman I am today. So, with that, welcome to Tanzania.

This week, I'll be your guide to Tanzania, offering general tips to help you choose where to visit based on your interests. From next week onward, I'll handpick cities and invite you to explore them with me.

As a Tanzanian, I guarantee that when you visit Tanzania, you'll feel right at home. Tanzanian people are among the most humble souls you'll ever encounter. Our neighboring countries may jest that we are laid-back and unhurried, and while there may be some truth to that, we always get things done albeit, at our own pace. So, when you're in Tanzania, please don't rush. Relax and take it easy; this is Bongo, where we use our brains more than our feet. Plan ahead and allow time to guide you.

Our street food delights in Tanzania are aplenty from the beloved "frittata," which we fondly call Chips Mayai, a simple yet satisfying combo of fries and eggs, to Baobao candy, "Ubuyu," mangoes with a kick of chili, and roasted cassava. Our traditional cuisine varies across regions, but staples like Ugali (cornmeal porridge) and Wali (steamed rice) are ubiquitous, often accompanied by beans, a Tanzanian favorite. Mornings are greeted with tea and Maandazi (sweet doughnuts), chapati, or Mtori (green banana soup), a surprising delight worth savoring. And let's not forget the abundance of fresh vegetables and holiday feasts featuring Nyama Choma (BBQ) Birian and Pilau.

Tanzanians embrace both Islam and Christianity, living harmoniously with love and respect for one another's beliefs. You'll find us celebrating religious holidays together, whether it's the call of Muslim prayers echoing through the cities or the festive cheer of Christmas.

When it comes to dressing in Tanzania, a bit of conservatism goes a long way, especially for women. Our culture values modesty, so attire that's too revealing may attract unwanted attention, particularly in coastal areas where Islam predominates. Respect for local customs, especially during Ramadan, is greatly appreciated.

Tanzania is vast  it takes one and a half times the size of Texas to get around! If you're planning a week-long visit, tailor your travels to what you want to see. Two weeks, however, afford you the luxury of exploring both the islands and the mainland.

For a week-long island getaway, Unguja, Pemba, and Mafia await. If you crave the tourist buzz, head to Unguja, where the city caters to travelers. For a more laid-back experience, Pemba and Mafia beckon with their simple charms.

If an animal safari is your dream, northern Tanzania is where you belong. Serengeti, Manyara, and Ngorongoro await your exploration. And for the adventurous souls, Kilimanjaro stands tall, beckoning climbers to its summit. Don't forget the awe-inspiring Lake Natron, where nature's wonders never cease.

Southern Tanzania boasts its own treasures for tourists from the breathtaking Kitulo National Park, a haven of wildflowers, to the rugged beauty of Ruaha National Park and the captivating landscapes of Mikumi and Udzungwa National Parks

Allow me to introduce you to the city I proudly call home - Dodoma, the capital of Tanzania. With its rolling savannahs, towering baobab trees, and the tranquil Lake Sulunga (Bahi Swamp), Dodoma is a testament to Tanzania's natural splendor. Explore the ancient Kondoa rock art sites and immerse yourself in the vibrant culture of the Swahili people.

And for those who seek to revel in the nightlife, Tanzanians know how to party! Our clubs are open seven days a week, testament to our love for music and fun. Soccer is our sport, and joy fills the air as we celebrate life.

Welcome to Tanzania! Over the next few weeks, I'll be your guide through the humble Swahili lands of Kilimanjaro, Serengeti, and the home of Zanzibar. Karibu to our home, where the spirit of Africa beckons you to explore, discover, and cherish every moment.