Author Archives: Jessica

6 Month Check In

Posted on by under Notes on Travel

I doubt this will reach anyone, as it has been quite a while since I’ve been back. But I suppose this is more for myself anyway. I thought that by six months back I would feel completely re-immersed into Western culture. To my delight, this isn’t the case. I feared losing all that I learned, and felt, in Tanzania. On the contrary, my desire to be back has increased. I’m comfortable living in the US. I recognize the importance of getting my education here, and of course, all of my loved ones are here. BUT, I miss it, so much. It’s hard to explain, and I barely understand myself how a few months abroad could have such a monumental impact on my life. Three months. I’ve been back six, and very little has happened. But in those three months, my world was re-created. I still have this recurring dream of driving along the road from Moshi to Arusha in a dala-dala. I can remember it so vividly, the smell of the land, the warmth of the sunset, the wind. It almost brings me to tears. But I’m not sad, this memory is of one of the few times in my life I’ve felt entirely at peace. It’s a great source of happiness.

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Goodbye Moshi

Posted on by under Africa, Tanzania

This is my last morning in Moshi, we head out to Dar this afternoon, then to Cairo on Wednesday. Said goodbye to some good friends I’ve made here, which is always hard. And it’s strange to think I may never see them again, though hopefully, at some point I will.
I’m leaving satisfied with my time here, getting so much more out of this trip than I ever thought I would. It’s both clarified my life as well as added complications, where to go next, what to do next. I am excited to return to the US, to see family and friends, but know that I’ll have to leave again at some point. Talking to those traveling around there is one conclusion I am certain about, if I’m going to travel now is the time, school, the US, will always be there. I however, won’t always be 22 with minimal responsibilities, and would regret not taking advantage of this opportunity. Coming here has by far been the best decision I’ve ever made and I’m so thankful for the opportunity. The experiences I’ve had and friends I’ve made have made these past two months some of the best in my life, I can’t wait to see what comes next.
So, on to Cairo!