But it is the warmness of the people that I find most appealing.  Perhaps bright lights and big cities have hardened me, because I find myself charmed by the bright smiles and big hearts of this country.  Harmony is not easy to achieve in a continent that has suffered through so many tragedies. But Tanzania, a melting pot of various ethnic groups, is relatively free from the tensions that plague so many other African nations.  This is partly due to the beloved Julius Nyerere, who won Tanzania’s freedom from the Europeans and became her first president. He tore down old ethnic and social divides and rebuilt the nation upon the notion of equality and unity:

“In Tanzania, it was more than one hundred tribal nits which lost their freedom; it was one nation that regained it.”

However, living with a Tanzanian family has helped me open my eyes to the everyday plights of  the people. It is hard to romanticize about a place, however stunning and exotic, when blackouts, water shortages and two hour traffic jams are real and frequent.  But I fully appreciate the authenticity of the experience, because it is so easy as a Muzungu (foreigner, usually a white person) to see half the story.

And so, it is against this backdrop of breathtaking visuals, humbling hospitality and demoralizing realities that I will carryout my fellowship…

ps. here is my first blog for Kiva

I headed to Xiamen the next morning, where my dad currently works. The city lies in the south and as such, was much warmer than I had anticipated.  I spent a few days catching up on a lot of sleep and seeing the nearby island of Gulang Yu (Piano Island). 

In Shanghai, I was able to meet up with most of my relatives over – you guessed it – dinner.  Nothing beats a large Chinese meal around a round table.  I was also really glad I was able to touch the piano and finally learn my favorite song from the Pride and Prejudice soundtrack. On my last day, I met up with Christina and Erik for lunch.  It was interesting to get their take about living in a foreign country.

Overall, the whole trip has been a needed change from the monotony of the last three years.  Partly due to my packed schedule, partly due to the fun I’ve been having… It feels like so much has happened in the last three weeks… Charlotte, Miami, San Deigo, LA, SF, Vancouver, Beijing, Xiamen and finally Shanghai… 

And as this journey ends, the next advenure is about to begin…

But there is no allure of a place like that of its people and so I have to thank Serena and Kenley for making my trip to the city perfect. 

Over spicy Korean food, friends caught up on old memories and new dreams.  Serena and I also cycled around Stanley park, soaking in the beauty of a lazy Canadian afternoon.  

The trip completely changed my preconceptions of the city. My memories where of dull shopping malls and monotonous suburban houses, but I am now amazed by the vibrancy of the streets and its people. Yet the people never fail to maintain a sense of calm about their way of life and the city is enveloped by a freshness that is found wanting in most urban cities.

We made our way up the sunny state and found ourselves at the home of Mike’s relatives.  Our wonderful hosts (and their four colorful dogs) definitely made a impression on me.  Without delving into details, I realized that though I am dreaming of big plans in Africa,  the kindest acts can be done at home and be surprisingly simple in concept.

A day later we were in SF.  I’ve always enjoyed its hilly streets and how the breeze carries with it a heavier scent of “aquatic life” (think clams and seaweed).  Unfortunately, this is where Mike and I had to part ways.  Him back to The City and me off on my new path.

The three days spent in sunny Miami was bliss. After an incomprehensibly chaotic week, it was nice to have a few days to laze around on some really pristine beaches. On land, Mike and I tore down South Beach on our little black beast of a scooter. At sea, we explored the sapphire waters with our snorkels. What really hit the spot was meeting up with Thai… on his bday no less! We celebrated with juicy steaks and Miami margaritas that dwarfed our faces. Too relaxed to write so I’ll let the pictures do the talking…

The first leg of the journey took me to Charlotte, NC. Though me and Mike only spent one day at the birth city of Banc of America, we had a great time dining with pals, James and Gazi. Tender beef briskets goes well with a side of great conversation (and mac n’ cheese, potato salad and of course beer ).

James is one of the people behind my decision to journey to Africa.  I credit him for planting the idea that I should seriously consider opportunities outside of the US.  I am also glad I got to see G.Ho before his move to the land down-under. We chatted about our mutual interests in social enterprise and how he had spent a summer with Grameen Bank, the successful Bangladeshi microfinance institution that propelled Muhammed Yunus to international acclaim.  It is always great to chat with socent enthusiasts.

It’s been a tiring few days, but visitng Charlotte was worth it! Next stop:  Miami!!