After enduring a very very long 12 hour bus ride to and from Mombasa, we have safely arrived back to Nairobi where I am finding myself wearing an excessive amount of clothing (flannel and leggings) compared to the amount of clothing, or lack there of, that I was wearing this past week. Throughout the entire time the temperature never seemed to creep below 90 degrees which was awesome but unfortunately made most of the students to come back with aggressive sun burns. (Don't worry dad, I used my sun screen--no burning for me!)
Mombasa is an area on the coast of Kenya that is a budding metropolis for tourism and is also home to both the native Swahili (Muslim) and Mjikenda (Christian) people. This was a very interesting contrast and relationship--one that we, SLU students, looked into and study in depth.
We arrived to Mombasa on Saturday afternoon and all ventured to experiment in the Indian Ocean for the first time. It was hot! The ocean was nothing like anything I had ever been seen--my past experiences in the Pacific and Atlantic oceans were a million times colder than the hot tub that is the Indian Ocean. Not only was the temperature alarming but the color was an aqua turquoise which complimented the white sand very perfectly--the view was magical and picturesque.
The following day we went to Fort Jesus where we got a very extended tour of the historical monument. Our guide was clearly in the zone because he was spitting out facts and information for what felt like hours (and in reality actually was hours). I have noticed, in my many tours in Kenya, that the Kenyan tour guides--while they are a vat of knowledge--have very little stage presence and are not natural engages. We students often agree that the information is all very welcomed and interesting but not always presented in the most of interesting ways. However, that being said I am very grateful that I even have the opportunity to soak it all up.
The following days consisted of us heading into the Old and New Mombasa towns where we got the opportunity to explore, take many snaps (as the Kenyans call photos) and bargain. I guess I now understand the phrase practice makes perfect because it sure does. I have really learned the art of bargaining and finding my way around the so called "Mzungu Tax" which is an inevitable tax or added amount of money that the shop vendors will add to a White persons purchase. We were also prepared a meal by the local Swahili women--,who may I add, prepared the most delicious Indian inspired meal I have ever had; the spices were incredible and delectable.
We took a nature walk into the sacred Rabai forest lead by the Kaya elders who informed us of the traditions and rituals that are still practiced today. We walked across the blazing hot sand barefoot, sat in a 40 minute prayer and participated in a moment of silence (or many) for those Kaya elders who have passed away. This was a great experience and now I have a greater understanding of the traditional beliefs the Mjikenda people practice.
On the last night we went on a Dhow boat (that sat about 40!) and had a luxurious four-course-meal. We were wined and dined by the classiest servers and were able to watch our food being cooked on the grill right in front of us! It was such a treat.
First course- I had an exquisite salad that had delicious flavor--cooked vegetables seasoned to perfection!
Second course- Clearly homemade tomato soup that beat out any other tomato soup I have ever had (sorry Coniston)
Main course- Unfortunately there were no vegetarian options and so I went with the least aggressive option which I thought was the Swahili Seafood. The meal was plated beautifully in a big shell with a ball of rice as the side dish. The dish was a tomato sauce with seafood pieces inside--sort of like a thick seafood chowder. I couldn't get myself to eat the seafood but was able to eat the tomato sauce and gave the seafood pieces to Max.
Dessert- Chocolate forest cake with strawberries on the top. This was by far the best part of the meal and curbed everyones sweet tooth just in time for Valentines Day!
The night ended with a big dance party to the incredible live band followed by a sing a long session on the bus ride back to the resort. It was a great end to our time in Mombasa.
Below are some of the many pictures that I took to document our adventure through Mombasa!
Chloe, Ally and I in the Indian Ocean for the FIRST TIME!
Being super touristy at Fort Jesus
Chloe and Julia
Never been more excited to be out of our tour...
Traditional market on Biashara St. in Old Mombasa Town
Becoming one with the Giraffes at the "quarry" aka zoo
THE MONKEYS WERE EVERYWHERE!
This guy was huge--over 100 years old!
A Kaya elder just after we walked on the REALLY hot sand
Beach Boy making a sweet hat for Connant
Sea star on our sea Safari
Our Sea Safari guide
The Dhow Boat
Getting ready to head to the Dhow
Ally, Max and I with our professor Celia...!
Killing it on the dance floor with Ally!
I am glad you had the chance to swim in the Indian ocean.....So, you are becoming a good barterer. I look forward to seeing this new trait in action....both in Kenya and life.
ReplyDeleteThe Muslim culture and its influence on the coast is amazing to witness. What a fascinating place to be.
Totally jealous of any yummy Indian food.
Enjoy your urban homestay.
XOXOX Dad