As my safari guests will attest, Shanga is one of my favorite places. They employ disabled people (very rare in a place with an approximate 50% unemployment rate) and they are the only place in the country to recycle. Beautiful products come out of here and you may order on their website if you wish. We had a wonderful lunch followed by a short tour of the different artisans.
Safari Guest Blog
"People come to East Africa for many reasons. Yet at our core, I believe we come because we long to have our souls touched deeply and our spirits open widely in a manner not possible in the routines of our daily lives.
This is what we are all seeking, whether we know it or not; to experience and expand a part of ourselves that we don't quite know how to get to and yet, when the expansions happens, we are never the same. A permeate shift that has us be more respectful of each other as well as more joyful in our hearts.
When I began this trip, I wondered how long before I would feel my heart beating with Africa's heartbeat, falling deeply in love with the people and her land. The answer: just a day for her magnificence is breathtaking.
The Tanzanian people believe it is their obligation to save their wild life. The diversity and richness of their land, the pride of and commitment for their country, culture and animals has changed me forever. I am humbled and grateful." Merle McKinley
Subnote: Merle had a lovely experience connecting with a young bull elephant. He stopped, listened to her and moved on a few steps, then stopped once again and acknowledged her. It was a really special moment for all of us.
Arusha Seamstress
We began the morning with a short stroll through town, searching for the colorful cloth that is so popular here. Along the way, we admired the incredible balance, strength and grace of the local people.
After searching through a multicolored variety that was a feast to the eyes, two of our group chose a vivid purple and yellow patterned fabric, while the others purchased blues and reds. While we are on safari, some will be made into table covers and napkins, dresses and another a shirt. Here our friend Agnessis measuring Galen for the correct shirt measurements.
First night in Arusha
We stay at Ngare Sero Mt Lodge our first night in Arusha. A gorgeous lodge and location complete with walking trails, birding (over 200+ species) around the lake, conservation of the acres encompassing the spring (origination for all downstream river water), organic gardens, views of Mt Meru and Mt Kilimanjaro, and a small stables for riding occasions.
Rainbow Beginnings
Our group meets at the gate at Schiphol Airport in Amsterdam under rainbow skies. An auspicious start to the first safari of 2016.
Dreaming of a personalized safari for yourself? I plan all of the details and help take the fear out of traveling in the 'dark continent' and bring it to light. Safaris are now underway for this fall and next winter. Karibu sana (you are very welcome)!