A real post?

Sigh...


Its nice to finally have a free moment to sit down and make (attempt to make) a 'real' post...

I am amazed how many people have stumbled upon my journal, and how many people are going on the same trip as me. Although I only know a few of you from the little information we have exchanged online, I cant begin to say how excited I am to meet everyone. I must warn everyone though, I have been trying to learn a little Swahili, and it looks like I may have to lean on someone to help me understand the finer points of the language :P

I guess Ill have to start making these post to consider a larger audience...ill start with a little about myself (for those people I have yet to meet) and then go into more about Tanzania (for those I know, and those I dont).

Name: James Reimann (im on facebook, but trying to find me may be rather difficult)
School: University of Central Florida
Major: History B.A. (Graduate May 4, 2007)

Dont really know what else to put here...if your curious about more, feel free to ask me.


Tanzania:

-Some of the world's oldest known pre-human remains have been found in Tanzania (http://www.pbs.org/wgbh/evolution/humans/humankind/d.html)

-Typical home (something I may be living in): Cinderblock or mud brick, with roofing of corrugated tin or thatch. Outdoor bathroom and water drawn from wells.

-Tanzanians place a premium on "politeness and courtsey":
*Handshakes are often held throughout an entire conversation, and are essential in all social encounters (including asking for directions)
*Don't eat of pass things with the left hand (thank goodness im right handed)
*When entering a house, be sure to call out HODI! (greetings)
*Avoid criticising the government
*Recieve gifts with both hands, or with the right hand (left hand holding the right elbow)

-Religion:
*35-40%: Muslim
*45-50%: Christian
*10-20%: Traditional religions (varying)


Sweet...

James