Greetings from Zanzibar! I flew in yesterday to this lovely, laidback island.
I finished my time in Nairobi with a visit to the Giraffe Centre on Saturday. It was established to protect and preserve the Rothschild giraffe, an endangered species. The Centre is very well laid out and, besides protecting the giraffe, they also have an eco friendly agenda. I sat on a bench made entirely of large soda bottles! Quite comfortable. Of course, the highlight is the giraffes. There is a overlook where the giraffes can come and get handouts from the visitors. Each person is given a small cup with some pellets to feed to the giraffes. We needed to wash our hands first and then were instructed to just place one pellet at a time on their long grey tongues. And a quick pat could be snuck in. It was very fun.
Quite a few giraffes are kept here but as younger ones mature, they are released back into the wild, being closely monitored for their safety.
After my visit, I did a little more shopping, visiting a bead factory and seeing the process for hand making and painting of the beads. Back to my room and then my final meal at the Yaya Centre. It’s been nice to have that so close.
Sunday dawned. I had my usual lovely breakfast at the hotel, packed up my bags, and said goodbye to the friendly, gracious staff. A man called Peter opened the gate to the mall for me each day. Fun connection.
I had given myself a good bit of time at the airport so grabbed some lunch before the flight. The plane for the trip was a small commuter craft. Close pack describes the seats and leg room! However, it was a short flight so no worries.
Arrived and went through customs – the clear sheet separating me from the officer had some small holes to speak through. They looked like bullet holes but were probably a drill.
Fortunately, I was near the front of the line so it went smoothly. I was right behind three businessmen types who I had first noticed on the bus to the plane. They obliviously remained seated as this feeble old lady stood, clutching a pole! They were the first off the plane. As we were queuing for our insurance check, one tried to push around me. I sweetly asked if he’d like to cut in front of me so he stepped back a pace. Really, just a funny story as most everyone I have met here has been so friendly and helpful.
Eventually, my driver came and we headed into Stone Town. So different from Nairobi. No slums, pastel colors, and a relaxed feeling.
After a fairly short drive, we parked, unloaded my bags, and entered the warren that is Stone Town. Think a souk. Thankfully, my driver brought my bags and led me to the hotel, after a number of twists and turns. I was checked in by the friendly owner. Thanks
A short digression here. Both this man and the man who was to assist me on this trip are a type I really struggle with. Think used car salesmen. They have an agenda for you and will talk and talk until the sheer verbiage overwhelms you. This owner was pushing trips around the area and items in his little attached shop. I safely retreated to my room, which was fine, until I headed out on a short walk. Although I thought I was paying attention to the turns and only went a short way, I got lost. I wasn’t worried as helpful people got me back. But it left me leery about finding a place for supper. A young man attached to the hotel, led me to a place and picked me up an hour later. Thankfully. The meal was barely adequate, and I needed to keep swinging at the flies. Some cats also frequent this place and kept coming around for handouts. So far, not a great start. I decided to go a day early to the other side of the island, on the beach. Great choice as the bed was hard and uncomfortable. I think I would have slept as well on the floor! My introduction to Zanzibar was inauspicious at best. I am done whinging!
All to say, next morning I was on my way. The drive took about an hour. First, we threaded our way out of Stone Town but then we went through the countryside with its lush vegetation and occasional blooming tree or bush. So nice. (side note – while leaving town, I saw a young man wearing an Oregon Ducks T-shirt!)
I am staying at PongWe Bay Resort, on the Indian Ocean. Talk about a reversal of fortunes! This place is heaven. Thatched roof buildings, sand paths (one is urged to go barefoot here) and delightful staff. I am soooooo glad I came up here a day early.
So for the next couple of days I will give myself up to prayer and sybaritic pleasures. I think those two can go hand in hand.

Day before the election thoughts. Shifting gears here a bit. Feel free to stop reading as this next bit deals with politics. As I’ve traveled this year, Italy and now here, I have been surprised at how almost everyone I’ve met would like to come to the US. Some to visit, some to stay. It’s been interesting to see our country through their eyes. Even among relatively sophisticated people, there is still this image of America as a very special, unique place. Rather the “city on a hill” image. I have been surprised but have learned much. These folks embrace the idea of America – a democracy based on freedom and dignity for the individual. A place where one has a chance to do better. The land of opportunity. These interactions have clarified my view of our country. Too easily have I gotten caught up in the avalanche of media and have lost sight of the vision. Now I do not believe God loves our country more than any other. In fact, I’m not sure God loves countries at all – just the people who live in them. However, America was a good idea, and as flawed as it has been, I would like to see that idea continue. We offer hope to others. It is a privilege and duty. So I’m praying like mad about the election tomorrow. But I know God is already there, whatever the outcome. Praying for all of you there – vote and stay safe. I’ve never had to say that about an election before. 😢