Mzungu Maasai

Pole sana that I haven’t updated in over two weeks! Life got a little hectic there the last two weeks while I was still in Tanzania. We had a family burial to attend, a school celebration to plan and host, school supplies to buy for the next school year starting in January, and my apartment to pack up. I left a lot of things there with my friends and still managed to bring home two completely full suitcases. I don’t know how that is possible, but it’s true.

If you’ve never been on a long international flight with a long layover in a foreign country, let me tell you how it goes. I can’t afford to fly anything except economy (although there was one time that I was able to upgrade to business class for only $1000, and somehow, I managed to do it. I recommend it.), and some airlines are simply better than others at it. I flew American this time…they are not my favorite even flying domestically, but I was in a pinch. However, because they are not known for their international flights, and the plane was landing in Philly which is not a major hub, the flight was nowhere near full. This meant I got an entire row of seats to myself!! There are some airlines where you can buy the seats next to you or the entire row for about $100 (Ethiopian Air is one of them), and I definitely recommend that. I was able to stretch across the row and get some sleep for once. Plus you don’t have to worry about climbing over anyone (or them climbing over you) to get to the bathroom.

The airport I normally fly into for a layover both ways (coming and going) is in Doha, Qatar. If you have never been to this airport, why not?? It is simply amazing. There is an “orchard” in the terminal C that you can walk through where you think you are outside. They even have “tents” set up where you can rest if you are lucky enough to find an empty one. There are beautiful sculptures all over the place. And the shopping/stores are amazing! I can’t afford anything myself, but I love to look at all of them. Sometimes I treat myself to high tea at Harrod’s, but mostly I stick to cheaper stuff. You can also take tours through Doha at all hours of the day or night. My friend did that last summer and really enjoyed it. I tried to get one scheduled for this most recent trip, but I couldn’t get it to go through for some reason, so I always figure there is a reason why things are not working out and don’t stress too much about it. Instead, I had another “Instant Glow” facial and soaked in the jacuzzi at the hotel spa. Again, I highly recommend this! I love being able to take a shower halfway through my trip and not feel so “icky” upon arrival. I also bring a change of clothes in my carryon for this purpose.

Anyway, I am back in America for the holidays and then I will stay on for a few months while I start my master’s degree and do some online work that I am starting. I want to make sure I have a handle on things, and a good Wi-Fi connection, before I head back over. Plus, I am hoping my registration of the school comes through which will allow me more visa options in the future and not having to leave every ninety days. Enjoy these pictures of the Doha airport!