Well, we have made it through our first week here in Nairobi. Our group is moved into our new apartment and aside from a few water/electricity issues, all is running smoothly. The first week working in the Ecotact office was extremely interesting. I am the only one from my group there all the time so I am learning a lot about Kenyan culture and trying to pick up some swahili. The Ecotact staff is friendly and lunch is prepared every day with tea at 10 and 4. My first lesson in culture was all about Kenyan time. Whenever someone wants to set a meeting, they laugh at me when I ask "what time?". I am always told that there are only two times...morning and evening. It is an adjustment but also very relaxing to not feel rushed.
Yesterday I met up with a friend of a friend here in Kenya, Stephen Rigby. I was very proud that I was able to find my way around our neighborhood by myself to meet him! It was nice to talk with a fellow American who has been here a while about how different Africa is from the states.
The food here is amazing...we have been to a lot of really great restaurants and nothing is too expensive. The local beer is Tusker...I have already had my fare share and am sure it will be my savior after one of these long work weeks. Every Sunday a Masai Market sets up in the parking lot outside of the mall by our house. There are tons of booths with African masks, bags, jewelery and decorations. Everyone tries to get your attention by saying "Jambo sister" and offering to trade you for something (anything!) that you have on your person. Today a man offered to trade me for my hair tie on my wrist. Of course by "trade" he meant my hair tie plus 500 shillings. Today I bought two beautiful bags for 600 shillings, about 8 dollars. I can't wait to buy everyone at home presents. I miss you all and hope to talk to you soon!
Ash
No comments:
Post a Comment