Happy Independence Day Nigeria!
On October 1, Nigeria celebrated its independence from Britian. One of the first men to push for independence, was a politician, and journalist, by the name of
*Photo Source-foreignaffairs.gov.ng and nigerianfinder.com
On October 1, Nigeria celebrated its independence from Britian. One of the first men to push for independence, was a politician, and journalist, by the name of Anthony Enahoro.
Under the leadership of Nnamdi Azikiwe, Nigerian won its independence on October 1, 1960.
Read:
Nigeria is 60: Here are Those Whose Labor Led to Independence
The Meaning of the Nigerian Coat of Arms
Designer of the Nigerian flag Taiwo Akinkunmi sadly just passed away 2 months ago-He was only 23 years old when the Nigerian flag that he designed was first raised.
Watch Rolihlahla (Nelson)Mandela Documentary on Pluto TV
My mind and spirit has been in South Africa for the past 3 months. There is something very strong that is pulling me towards this African country…A very heavy feeling that
My mind and spirit has been in South Africa for the past 3 months. There is something very strong that is pulling me towards this African country…A very heavy feeling that I never felt before about South Africa!
I seriously cannot stop listening and dancing to Amapiano music, and I have a deep desire to speak Xhosa fluently! It’s like it has taken over me (in a good way) and at the same time, trying to send me a very important and urgent message.
Xhosa, along with Zulu, is one of the official languages spoken in South Africa, one of many Bantu languages, and belongs to one of the Niger-Congo languages.
My DNA shows that I am mostly Nigerian-Western Bantu-Congo-Cameroon, but who knows if a little Southern Bantu (Zulu or Xhosa) or Eastern Bantu (Swahili) is not in the mix? If history is correct in its documentation of Western and Central Africans traveling to East and South Africa during what was called the Bantu Migration, there may be a very meaningful reason as to why I feel a strong connection to Tanzania, (my connection with Tanzania started in 2020) and now to South Africa as well.
( I will write about my first encounter with South Africa at the age of 12 in another blog post.)
During a wave of expansion of people in Sub-Saharan Africa that began 4,000 to 5,000 years ago, Bantu-speaking populations – estimated today as reaching some 310 million people – ‘gradually’ left their original homeland of West-Central Africa and travelled eastwards and southwards in the continent. A genomic study conducted by the “Institut Pasteur”, the CNRS[2] and a broad international consortium using a huge amount of data (of over 2,000 samples) collected from individuals in 57 populations throughout Sub-Saharan Africa managed to retrace the persistently controversial migratory routes of these populations.
The heartland[1] of Bantu languages is somewhere in the Congo River basin rain forest. [1] By ‘heartland’ I mean the part of a region considered essential to the viability and survival of the whole, especially a central land area relatively invulnerable to change or attack….Many authors believe Bantu people originated from southern West Africa in the region between the Niger delta and the Sanaga River in Southern Cameroon. From there, they moved eastwards and southwards as summarized by Cartwright[2] on the following map.
Source: Professor Stephen T.M. Lukusa. Bantulingual.com-Causes of Bantu Migration-Origin of Bantu People
( I also will write about The Bantu migration later as I learn and study more.)
South Africa is calling!
Going about my Sunday evening just relaxing, I decide to skip NetFlix, and see what is on PlutoTV.
As I scroll down to check out what shows were on live, South Africa presents itself to me in the form of Rolihlahla (Nelson) Mandela Documentary.
Nelson Rolihlahla Mandela-
First president of South Africa-Lawyer-Activist (fought against apartheid) Philanthropist
I try to never go anywhere unless I feel led to
As I devote myself to study and learn more about my own African roots, I am also devoting my time and energy into studying the whole continent of Africa.
I have been to Dar es Salaam, Tanzania in East Africa 3 times-as my very first out of the country travels, I felt a strong calling (urge) to go to Tanzania.
No matter how many times people from all over the world have bragged about South Africa, I personally had to be drawn towards it in some kind of way, to even want to visit.
Most of my visits in Africa have been for spiritual, cultural, and potential business reasons-and I will go to as many countries in Africa as I can, as each one (unexpectedly) present itself before me…
I believe South Africa will be next!
As I have written in previous posts, I have had West and East African friends and co-workers (Nigerians, Cameroonians, and Kenyans) here in the United States for over 10 years-(not knowing back then that most of my maternal African DNA resides in Nigeria, Cameroon, Congo, and Western Bantu) this is why I say unexpected, because I thought that Nigeria would be the very first African country that I would end up going to-or at least the second?
I believe that before you visit any city state country or continent for the first time, (but especially Africa because of its vast diversity) you should take the time to thoroughly study and learn about the people, language, cultures, ethnicities, tribes, currency, economy, politics, a country's past and present struggles, along with their past and present victories-most importantly, an in depth study of its history.
South Africa is calling…And I must go!
“1,000 years ago, Africans migrated to the South. The Xhosa nation settled with their cattle in the eastern part of what is now called South Africa. European settlers arrived in the middle of the 17th century. They fought the Africans and drove them off their land, sewing the seeds of hatred, that lasted for centuries. It was here in the Eastern cape, that Nelson Mandela was born in 1918. He was of Royal blood. a descendant of Thembu Chiefs….
Source-Mandela Documentary
“It is not our diversity which divides us; it is not our ethnicity, or religion or culture that divides us. Since we have achieved our freedom, there can only be one division amongst us: between those who cherish democracy and those who do not.”
Mandela
*Side Note: Back in the day, a lot of our African American grandparents and parents, stayed glued to the television news when it came to Mandela, as if he was our president!
Mandela has stated in a speech he gave in the USA in 1994, that President Bill Clinton and George Bush both supported his country and the apartheid struggle. He also reminded Africans in America, that Africa is OUR continent.
Mawhoo Showcase
If you haven’t fell in love with up and coming South African Artist Mawhoo yet, I promise that you will after watching, and listening to these showcases and interviews!
(Pronounced Mah-who)
Let's goooo!
Mawhoo Showcase!
If you haven’t fell in love with up and coming South African Artist Mawhoo yet, I promise that you will after watching, and listening to these showcases and interviews!
(Pronounced Mah-who)
Let's goooo!
Get to know Mawhoo
( English Speakers: You will be able to understand most of what is being said, as Mawhoo and the interviewer speak both Khosa and English during the interview.)
⬇️
Mawhoo debut album dropping in September!
Click to be one of the first to hear as soon as it drops
*Cover Photo Source:Spotify
Featured African Designer lafalaise-dion From Côte d'Ivoire
I grew up in a society where we were taught to reject, to demonize African spirituality and mystical practices. Naturally, as I grew up, I felt a fear of anything that emanated from African spirituality. The gods, the practices, created in me a psychosis. However, I kept hidden in myself an unexplained admiration for the cauri
I grew up in a society where we were taught to reject, to demonize African spirituality and mystical practices. Naturally, as I grew up, I felt a fear of anything that emanated from African spirituality. The gods, the practices, created in me a psychosis. However, I kept hidden in myself an unexplained admiration for the cauri. I could not explain how this so-called "diabolical shell" could attract me as much. I watched him from a distance, I appreciated him by forbidding me to have physical contact with him. And then, a few years ago, my curiosity as a journalist pushed me to get closer to spirituality to get away from religion. As I read, research and meditate, I discovered AFRICAN SPIRITUALITY and the power of the Cauri. I understood where my attraction for cowries came from. I learned that the history of my people was inseparable from that of the cauri ... Old currency in West Africa, object of divination, communication link between men and spirits, the cauri represents wealth, power, the protection, the woman, the creation, the femininity, the sexuality ... Its curved back recalls the belly of a pregnant woman. It is a symbol of fertility. The split that separates the two parts, represents the duality. The power of this shell is immense, its mysterious origin ... .. It is said that it comes from the Maldives. It was introduced in West Africa in the 8th century as a bargaining chip by Arab traders. It was thus adopted by my people who knew how to recognize his power. With us Dan, people from the western region of Côte d'Ivoire, cowries are part of our lives, they are our protectors, the messengers of djinans (geniuses). That's why we use them to give strength to our masks, our dancers. For our mystical rituals, to communicate with our ancestors as well as our Gods. "The cowries are so powerful because they draw their strength from the sea from which they come" "we use them because our ancestors asked us to do it" "the cowries speak. They communicate with pure hearts ". "They tell us our story, but we also predict the future." My fight For centuries, we have been told our story for us. Our gods, religions, traditions, rituals have been demonized. Our fetishes carried away. At the place, we were told how and who to pray! How to dress, what to eat. Our existence has been dictated for too many centuries. Today, knowledge is within reach, we must seize it. It is time for us black Africans to reconcile with our heritage and reclaim our culture; our spirituality, our gods and embrace it. Our history, we must write it for ourselves. Therefore, I write mine, that of my people through my creations. They are an invitation to discover my story. That of a woman in search of her story, spirituality, balance; of his Gods, of happiness! I call for a reappropriation of our culture.
lafalaise-dion
On Repeat-Here We Go!
Nigerian artist Asake is fire! The song I currently have in rotation and on repeat as I am writing this short blog post is ‘What's up my G’ from his brand new album Work of Art.
Like many of Asake's songs, ‘What's up my G’ features an ensemble of symphony, afro tribal beats,
Image source-YouTube
Nigerian artist Asake is fire! The song I currently have in rotation and on repeat as I am writing this short blog post is ‘What's up my G’ from his brand new album Work of Art.
Like many of Asake's songs, ‘What's up my G’ features an ensemble of symphony, afro tribal beats, Yoruba language, South African kwaito, amapiano, jazz, harmony, and choir like background vocals. Your gonna love him!
The song ‘Ngcono Bang'yeke’ (better let them go) has been on repeat with me for a month-and I know that I will continue to have it on repeat for many months to come!
Read-The Psychology Behind Listening to Songs on Repeat
South African Kwaito and Amapiano has been making me feel some type of way lately. I am thinking about planning a trip to South Africa just to hit up the music scene!
Read-The Best Ways to Learn a Different Language
Also, because of my newly found love/obsession for South African music, I have added Zulu to my list of languages that I want to learn.
DJ Tene' Tabasamu-My Soul Floats in Afro-Beats!
Definition of my soul floating in Afrobeats:
When an African song, and/or beat makes me feel as if my whole being is floating within the energy of the music frequency, and I don’t wanna leave…So therefore certain particular songs are on repeat-all day, all week, or for a full month!
When I can't stop listening to a particular song-my soul is embedded in the sound
Definition of my soul floating in Afrobeats:
When an African song, and/or beat makes me feel as if my whole being is floating within the energy of the music frequency, and I don’t wanna leave…So therefore certain particular songs are on repeat-all day, all week, or for a full month!
When I can't stop listening to a particular song-my soul is embedded in the sound waves and the energy of the voice/voices, and the unique way in which the song track and instruments are arranged.
A good Afrobeat can disrupt any plans that I may have, because my whole being is fully immersed in these sounds! I am taken away by the voice of the artist-and by the way the artist croons to a specific part of the song. Afrobeats literally takes me to another planet, or transport me to whoever I want to be with, and wherever I want to go.
Different styles of AfroBeats
Afrobeats consist of West African sounds and artists.
Read-A Guide to AfroBeat Music
Bongo Flava
Bongo comes from the kiswahili word ubongo, which means brain. Bongo Flava is a mixture of Tanzanian cultural beats, reggae, hip-hop, Afro-beats, and Arabic.
South African Kwaito House
South African house music consists of repetitive, rhythmic, and euphoric 80's house beats, combined with Zulu, and addictive modern African beats.
Learn about Kwaito South Africa's House
Music is my #1 go to for therapy, healing, motivation, influence, mood, energy shifts, and escape!
Check out my playlist and get carried away by Afro tunes. You’ll never be the same!
Warning: Africans are on a whole notha energy level! You won’t be able to sit still, you will be forced to get up and dance, your body will move in ways it never moved before…, and if you have somewhere to be, you probably won't make it!
PS: It’s the accents and foreign language for me-also when they switch from singing in English to their native language, and vise versa😍
My favorite song right now ‘Umlilo’ which means fire in Zulu, is a collab with South African female artist MaWhoo-check it out!👇🏽
Umlilo Lyrics in English and Zulu
These Hit Hard’👇🏽
Here are two other South African Amapiano songs from one of my playlists on Spotify that I been having on repeat-
NO ONE is Originally From America
If you are just now beginning to study Africa, and African Ancestry, you may be a little confused due to lack of knowledge or misinformation-Like not knowing that Africa is a continent, and not a country, and that Africa is the origin of the black and wooly haired.
Every ethnicity is beautiful in their own way-and every race has their own unique physical traits, that make them stand out.
For example:
If you are just now beginning to study Africa, and African Ancestry, you may be a little confused due to lack of knowledge or misinformation-Like not knowing that Africa is a continent, and not a country, and that Africa is the origin of the black and wooly haired.
Every ethnicity is beautiful in their own way-and every race has their own unique physical traits, that make them stand out.
For example:
For Asians, it's their eyes and long black silky hair (India is in Asia)
For Europeans, it's their pale pink and white skin, brown and yellow hair.
These are duh factors that has to continually be brought out and repeated because in the US, people act as if they have not learned about the world, different cultures, and how if one differs from you, then there is nothing wrong with them.
Important side note: All of our unique physical traits are scientific genetic DNA from the universe. Our unique cultures and physical traits encompass who we are for a reason, and are not a mistake. Human beings are not supposed to be the same, or else we would have already been created in the same way-So don’t make the mistake of trying to conform yourself into someone else.
Back to Africa
There are 54 countries on the continent of Africa. Our race in Africa, may look the same, but speak totally different languages.(Don’t mistake a Tanzanian for being Kenyan, and don’t mistake a Cameroonian for being Nigerian-they will quickly correct you.)
.There are over 2,000 languages spoken in Africa!
.Also, each African country is made up of many different tribes and ethnicities.
Another side note: People of the same race but different country and culture is widespread. When you say white people, or Europeans, exactly who are you talking about? Surely not the whole European race. (If you refer to Italians or Jews as white people, they will quickly correct you as well. That may be their skin color, but color is not their heritage.) Also, can we tell whether or not someone is from Japan, China, Korea, or Vietnam based on their looks alone? (They will also be quick to say, I’m not Chinese, I’m Japanese, or I’m not Japanese, I am Korean.)
Where do I start?
Get a DNA test done. Once you get your results, take the time to study the language and region from where your ancestors came from. If you listen to your people, and watch their ways, and characteristics, you will soon discover some physical and/or personality traits that are similar to your own.
Find your country, find your ethnicity, find your tribe, find yourself!
Finding and Accepting Your African Roots
We all have either freely chose to migrate to America, were brought by force, kidnapped, enslaved, or came here fleeing from wars, political injustices and/or other problems, in ones country of origin.
Let us begin and continue to study the history of our original DNA. The Americas
We all have either freely chose to migrate to America, were brought by force, kidnapped, enslaved, or came here fleeing from wars, political injustices and/or other problems, in ones country of origin.
Let us begin and continue to study the history of our original DNA. The Americas is the new world. Find your roots, study your roots, hold onto your roots, and no matter what, never forget about your roots.
When you find your roots, you find YOU, and everything in your life, past and present, will begin to make sense.
From Africa to Martin Luther King, Jr-Let Freedom Ring
Okay, so today, here in the States, we are celebrating the birthday, life, and legacy of the most popular freedom fighter, Martin Luther King Jr. He was one of the many Black leaders in the 1950’s and 60’s, who fought on behalf of Africans that were brought here by way of slavery to The Americas.
Martin Luther King, Jr was a Christian minister who not only fought for Africans in America to have the same rights as American Europeans, but
Okay, so today, here in the States, we are celebrating the birthday, life, and legacy of the most popular freedom fighter, Martin Luther King Jr. He was one of the many Black leaders in the 1950’s and 60’s, who fought on behalf of Africans that were brought here by way of slavery to The Americas.
Martin Luther King, Jr was a Christian minister who not only fought for Africans in America to have the same rights as American Europeans, but also led peaceful non-violent protests and marches in the segregated south-The southern slave states in The America were Mississippi, Georgia, Virginia, North and South Carolina, Alabama, Texas, Arkansas, Tennessee, Louisiana, Delaware, Florida, Kentucky, and Maryland.
Segregation-Separation of people based on class, color, and differences.
Still no equal rights for our ancestors-We are a highly sought after and profitable race, but didn’t receive our profits
So even after slaves from Africa were granted freedom from Europeans in America in 1863, by way of President Abraham Lincoln, there was still no equal rights for our ancestors.
Things that have been running through my mind on MLK day-Is it really because of the color of our skin?
Everything you hear when it comes to racial hate about Africans in America, is because of the color of your skin. I don’t believe that skin color or any difference in one’s physical traits or appearance is the reason for hate. They just want to make you think that it is. If European colonizers were so repelled about our skin color, in which we scientifically get from DNA, and the natural sun rays, they wouldn’t have even came near us.
The psychology of hate comes from fear, jealousy, and ignorance. Putting another nation down for the sake of raising up one’s own nation to make it look like they are better wealthier and more successful than others, is because of their own insecurities. For when one is truly secure in who they are, they would not waste or dedicate their time, energy, or life on abuse of any kind.
(If you have ever watched archived racial documentaries, you will hear some American Europeans say, “Go back to Africa”, as if we just casually came to America. Ummm, wasn't it you who sought us out, and brought us here??)
My Big But On MLK Speeches from a Christian Perspective-If you haven’t studied African history, your not going to understand, but read with an open mind
Ever since I was 5 years old, I have always questioned everything. On some occasions, I have gotten into big trouble with my parents for my disrespectful curious inquisitiveness. Growing up in the 70’s and 80’s it was really disrespectful when a child questions parents or authority. Still to this day, I always have to ask why, and like to get to the root of the problems behind certain happenings.
I respect, acknowledge and honor Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr but I can’t help but to speak my mind.
BUT…
By way of Africa and being of African ancestry, we are not Christians. Each tribe and culture has their own spirituality. MLK Jr, comes from a legacy of Christian pastors and preachers.., as do I, until I began researching and studying African history. I do not totally condone Christianity, but I would like for us to stand up and speak more on traditional African spirituality.
“Free At Last, Free At Last”
As stated above, after being free from slavery, and segregation, a lot of us are still not truly free as Africans in America, because we are forsaking our ancestral spirituality.
How So?
.A lot of Africans in America use something that is not our own to fight, in particular, the bible
.We still proudly carry and claim the first and last names of former European slave owners. Mine is Armstead which belongs to The Dutch
.We still speak the English languages of our former slave owners
.We still predominantly wear European attire
.We still fight, preach, and stand up to European religions as if they are our own- And oh yeah, if you talk about African spirituality to some African Americans, they will say it is demonic. Really? So the colonizers still have enslaved African minds into thinking that their own race and spirituality and way of worship is demonic? (This is called brain-wash) So therefore, those with minds that are still enslaved, are preaching, upholding, and worshipping a religion, people, and stories, that are not their own.
Raised in a Christian Church
I used to be very active in black churches, and also was an adamant Christian evangelist, so I feel that I can speak very openly about this. I have seen a whole lot when it comes to Africans in America, and the preaching of the Christian European doctrine in Black churches. Both my step-father who helped raise me and my biological father were/are Christian ministers. They spoke and preached more about the Christian doctrine than Africa.
Our African Roots
We must spend time learning and studying about our own roots, which go way beyond the Christian doctrine-But In the African American church, if you go against Christianity, you are deemed to be crazy, instead of the other way around.
*Did you know that in some African countries, Africans that have converted to Islam and Christianity worship together, respect the differences in doctrine, and live peacefully amongst one another? And there are some that have converted, and either combine their African spirituality with Christianity or Islam, or just claim that they are Christians or Muslim, but still believe in and uphold their African ancestry.
Let Freedom Ring
For me, celebrating Martin Luther King Jr's birthday is a reminder that Let Freedom Ring goes beyond physical freedom, and desegregation. I thank and honor Dr. Martin Luther King,Jr for sacrificing his life for Black equality in America. But we must continue to evolve. My aim, and our aim as Africans in America by way of slavery, should be to become totally free, by becoming more African.
Read about Africa, learn, about Africa, study, Africa, research Africa, and travel to Africa.
Let’s continue celebrating Martin Luther King, Jr and our equality as Africans in America, by not forgetting about who we really are.
Let Freedom Ring-Physically, Mentally, and Spiritually
Best Show on NetFlix About Native American Colonization By The Spaniards
I am an African Spanish and Native American Geneology and Indigenous tribe fanatic, and have learned that when it comes to Spanish ancestry:
-You are either Spanish by conversion (converting from your true Native American) Filipino, (Filipinos have Spanish last names) or African ancestry genes because of war, conquer, and slavery, or you are Spanish from
I am an African Spanish and Native American Geneology and Indigenous tribe fanatic, and have learned that when it comes to Spanish ancestry:
-You are either Spanish by conversion (converting from your true Native American) Filipino, (Filipinos have Spanish last names) or African ancestry genes because of war, conquer, and slavery, or you are Spanish from mixed genes-One of your great great grandparents was a Spaniard, and spouse was a different race-or both of your great great great, grandparents were Spaniards.
Also, if you represent Mexico, you may think that you are a true Mexican, but you really may have Native American blood running all through your veins-One of my old neighbor friends from Mexico, looked bewildered when I told her that her daughter had strong Native American features, especially when she was born. Although there are quite a few people from Mexico that are aware of their Native American ancestors, there are still many Mexican Americans who do not know the history between them and Native Americans.
I’m a firm believer that it is important to know where our true roots lie, or we will be living a lie! If we don’t know who our ancestors are, we are living a life based upon who we think we are, versus who we really are. Our culture and where we all come from is EVERYTHING.
If we are upholding one particular culture and language more than our own, we are literally killing and burying who we are-We are knowingly or unknowingly, saying that another nations language, spirituality, and way of life, is better than ours. When we do this, that nation that we are upholding more than ours, has our soul, and is dominating and controlling us.
Read-Happy Native American Heritage Day
Are you a true Spaniard by blood?
For me personally, on my mother’s father side of the family, we have Spaniard blood by way of my great great grandfather, who migrated from Spain, to Mexico, then to Corpus Christi, Texas. My grandfather and Uncle told me that his last name was Medina, but changed it to an English name Winn-(Possibly to pass as an Englishman in the US??)
(One day, I will write about the correlation between Spain and the Middle East, when it comes to the name Medina.)
Read-10 Incredible Ways Arabic Influenced Spanish Cuture and Language
Passing as an Englishman is my guess, because he owned land, and several businesses in Corpus Christi-I’m still researching.
My grandfather described him as white, with a curled up mustache-in my grandfather’s exact words ,“He looked like a redneck.”
Consequently, it seemed like the more I had children, the lighter they got, despite the fact that their dad’s have African dark skin-my last 3 children were all born white, and my last 2, have red hair-and my baby boy was born with blondish red hair. (But red hair does runs on my younger 2 father’s, mother's side of the family.)
Growing up, my mother says that she identified as mixed race Spanish, and until this day, she identifies more with her Spanish roots, than with her maternal African roots.
I just found out not too long ago, that a lot of my cousins that share my Maternal genes (my Mother’s Mother’s genes) have up to 10% Native American DNA.
*Side note: Native Americans have their own DNA testing system, so if you are looking to find out your true Native American ancestry, it would be best to do so through their data base, and not the English one’s.
-This is because more Native Americans provide DNA samples for their own race and tribes, than they do for the American DNA match systems.
Best Show on Netflix About Native American Colonization By The Spaniards
The Queen and The Conqueror-Catalina of The Indies-La Reina de Indias y el Conquistador
If you are of Spanish descent, Central or South American, and/or Native American, African, or all of the ethnicities combined, you certainly need to watch this movie!
Catalina of The Indies
Based on a true story, Catalina of the Indies is about a Native American tribe who’s family was brutally and fatally ambushed, by the Spaniards in the 16th century.
As a captured Native American woman, Catalina is a true warrior who never forgets about her roots, not afraid to fight, and was not afraid to stand up to important officials and magistrates.
Catalina of the Indies is my new hero!
While watching Catalina Of The Indies, you will get an accurate impression of what the Spaniards of that time, really thought about Native Americans and Africans.
All of it surrounds around greed and the Spaniards lust for gold!
You will see how even Native Americans were conformed to the Spanish language, clothes, way of life, and religion. You will clearly see, learn, and understand, how even you and your family, who may speak the Spanish language, and uphold Spanish religion and culture, may really truly be Native Americans. You will see how both the African and Native American slaves who were captured by The Spaniards, helped one other.
Read-Why I am Never Celebrating Thanksgiving Ever Again
Side note: Have you heard the difference between the way people from Spain speak Spanish, versus the way some people in Mexico, Central and South American countries do? It reminds me of the difference in American English and British English, in which the true English language derives from-Or the difference between the way people in the Southern states of America speak, versus people in the West-proper and non-proper English…
I can speak and understand about 70% of the Spanish language. On my recent travels to Tanzania, I was seated on Turkish Airlines next to 2 ladies who's Spanish enunciation was so clear! Amazingly, I could understand almost everything they were saying in Spanish. Hearing the flow of the Spanish language coming from out of their mouths, hit me in my gut! Uh-oh, there goes that feeling of connection again... I just had to initiate a conversation with them! … I asked them in Spanish where were they from, “De donde eres?” And they replied Valencia Spain!
And now, after briefly conversing with them in Spanish, I HAVE to plan a trip to Valencia! That feeling in my gut made me want to know even more about what city in Spain my great great grandfather was from.
Read-When Your Ancestors Call, You Answer
Back to Catalina Of The Indies!..,
Catalina learns the Spanish language so well, and quickly becomes fluent, with the help of a fellow Native American. She even converts to Christianity, only to get revenge against the nation who raped, killed, and stole from her family.
This movie is seriously beyond words, and is a huge part of World history!
Be prepared to get lost in all of the episodes as there is never a dull moment
Like a lot of Columbian movies that I have been watching, Catalina Of The Indies is packed with drama, action, murder, adventure, passion, love, and betrayal-you will feel every emotion that there is to feel. All of the actors are beyond phenomenal!
And in between all of the lust and greed, Catalina falls in love with a Spanish explorer and conqueror Pedro de Heredia!
You will not only follow the life of Catalina, you will follow in detail the lives and motives of all of the people who were involved in Catalinas journey-This includes. the priest who became like a father to Catalina, and baptizes her, an indigenous young man whom the priest took in, (who also became one of Catalinas allies) Catalina's lovers spouse, and her daughter, Pedro de Heredias brother, and his family, and so many more!
I just want to say again, that Columbian directors, actors, and production is top notch.
I don’t want to give too much away, so go and watch it now on Netflix!
Image Source-Wikipedia
PS: There is a statue of Catalina in the historic center of Cartagena, Columbia-Bogota, Columbia is on my travel list, and now after watching this movie, I HAVE to go to Cartegena!…Oh, and Spain also has a ciy named Cartegena.
Stay in Columbia for 6 months visa free!
This is now the number one country to visit in South America
PSS: The next show in my Columbian watch rotation is BOLIVAR. Go and watch the trailer! In the advert, you will hear one mother (who assumingly looks Spanish) telling her kids, “Remember, we are not Spaniards, we are Creoles”…
6 Raw Canvas Art Paintings For Sale In My Poshmark Closet
I am on a mission to support Tanzanian artisans, designers, and entrepreneurs!
These six acrylic paintings made on raw canvas art, was designed in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania Africa, by local Tanzanian Artist ‘KABWANGA’.
I am on a mission to support Tanzanian artisans, designers, and entrepreneurs!
These six acrylic paintings made on raw canvas art, was designed in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania Africa, by local Tanzanian Artist ‘KABWANGA’.
Join me on my mission in Tanzania, by visiting my Poshmark store to purchase raw art canvas paintings.
My Definition of Poverty Wealth and Social Class Has Changed After Spending 30 Days in Africa-And So Should Yours!
We are not in the business of humiliating one another, but we love respect. We teach our children to properly greet while passing others. We hold our babies swaddled in African cloth close to us, for this is our tradition. We love our own African language and are not ashamed of our culture and traditions. We are relaxed and confident, and approach life one day at a time, kidogo kidogo , laughing and talking and joking with our family and friends. We do not rush-pole pole..We are not
I didn’t just come to Tanzania for exotic animals, safaris, waterfalls, to climb mount kilimanjaro, or to take pictures with little African babies. I came first to meet and connect with the people, to learn about the culture, to learn the language, and to experience the everyday lifestyle of Tanzanians, whether it be in the city or village.
An Interesting Article From Brunswick, Canada About Poverty
This is Tanzania, East Africa!
Not America, not Europe,..Africa! The way we communicate, build, design, raise families, marry, conduct business, eat, and thrive is different, and is not wrong, or improper just because we don’t go about our lives like America or Europe.
We eat with our hands, many times walk barefoot, we like grit, and dirt roads, we know our way around the city and village in the pitch dark, we tolerate the natural smells of dung which helps grow fresh food, and fish, for protein. We dont care if we wore that shirt or dress yesterday, we are going to wear it again today, and maybe even tomorrow, and our people will not judge, question, whisper, or raise a brow. We know that the Universe has created us with rich dark brown and black skin, with thick wooly hair with intention so therefore, our everyday lives are not consumed with doubts or insecurities about our facial features, hair and skin color. A lot of us have straight teeth because we eat healthy. We are not in the business of humiliating one another, but we love respect. We teach our children to properly greet while passing others. We hold our babies swaddled in African cloth close to us, for this is our tradition. We love our own African language and are not ashamed of our culture and traditions. We are relaxed and confident, and approach life one day at a time, kidogo kidogo , laughing and talking and joking with our family and friends. We do not rush-pole pole..We are not stressed, if we are, we rarely show it. We build quickly, and quickly we build, with natural materials. Our young children whether boy or girl walk arm and arm, and hand in hand with their dearest friends. We spend a lot of our time outside in the fresh air. We sometimes sleep outside on a cloth, traditionally we cook outside, we wash our clothes by hand outside, we burn trash outside, or bury trash which nourishes future plants and trees-this way of life is not outdated, it is our culture and natural way of living. We love to sell in the streets, and are not easily discouraged when one turns their head away from us, or if it seems like one does not want to buy, we just keep moving with our sales until someone says yes. We do not get upset or engage in fights or arguments just because someone looks at us without a smile. We do not continue to engage in arguments when we are approached with conflict or correction from our fellow dada (sister) or kaka (brother).. (brother/sister/stranger/friend) we quickly find a solution and go our separate ways. Our way of life has always been Eco-friendly and sustainable. We have natural solutions. Our continent and country has all the resources needed to live a full and rich life. We cherish, honor, and respect our Elders. We believe in building strong families and communities. What other nations consider poor, we consider rich.
Tiffany Tene’
So What is the Problem?
Why does it “Look like” African children are always starving, sick, disease-stricken, poor, and helpless?? Why does it always “Look like” Africa is constantly in need of help, money, or saving from their ancestral religions??
Looks can be deceiving
My Definition of Poverty Wealth and Social Class Has Changed After Spending 30 Days in Africa-And So Should Yours!
After going from the city to the village, and village to city, traditional to suburban, upscale, to beachfront living in Tanzania, my definition and views on social class has tremendously changed.
Read-Staying at Kijiji Beach Resort in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
One of the best things that I love and discovered about Tanzania is that whether or not people make or have more or less than you, your status in life is not looked down upon.
In Tanzania, It doesn’t matter!
Whether you live in a traditional hut, directly on the beach in your man made house (which has to be cleared by the government) in a mud house, in a house made with bricks, in a house with tin roof, in a house with modern red roof, in a house made with thick tree branches and lumber, house made of steel, or a brush home. (I seen all types of uniquely Eco-friendly and sustainable, naturally man made African homes, build with natural material, by very gifted and skilled Africans)
-Adults and children were greeted and treated with the same respect as a Tanzanian who lived in a mansion. No one is being humiliated or shamed because they don’t have what their neighbor has.
Out of all of the areas that I visited in Tanzania, I enjoyed being in the villages the best. In the villages, you will see all of the houses that I mentioned above, in the same neighborhood. In the village, you will not only see all huts, and then all mansions-Hapana, (no) all classes of people live together and learn from each other. I loooove thisssss!
I have now come to respect and honor all African homes, even the ones that you may think, “oh, poor them,” if you are without African cultural understanding, and are looking from the outside in.
In Tanzania, no matter your means of transportation, no one is passing by you in their brand new Mercedes, (and yes, there are luxury cars in Africa too!) showing off, watching you walk or looking at you standing at the bus stop in pity. Whether you choose to walk with shoes or no shoes, (which by the way walking without shoes with your bare feet in dirt, mud, grass, and even solid ground has some health benefits) whether you have a stove or cook on a fire, or have an outdoor kitchen, (this I love too) whether you wore that dress or those pants for 2 days in a row (or for 3 or 4 days in a row) whether you wash outside or take your clothes to town to be washed, in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, it doesn’t matter. You live how you want to live… Without judgement in regards to your lifestyle-in peace. For the name Dar es Salaam itself means ‘Abode of peace’ in Arabic.
Let Me Take you Through the Villages in Kibugumo
Thank you Kibugumo for always greeting and welcoming me into your villages!
Kibugumo is a vibrant village set in the heart of Kigamboni! Here I am standing in from of the school (shule) sign. I went down this road so many times by foot, bajaji, (covered motorcycle) boda boda (motorcycle) and dolla dolla (bus).
Everyday, I was greeted by very respectful and well-mannered school children who were either on their way or coming from school.
“Shikamoo!”…. Kids greeting for hello. “Marahaba!” Adult responding back to kids greeting-Shikamoo is also used by adults to greet elders.
The school sign above is also like a landmark to me. Here, is where you can catch a ride wherever you need to go if you do not have scheduled transportation.
Behind the school sign is where you can also just hang out, sit down, eat snacks, relax, and have short or long conversations with fellow Tanzanians.
Do you see how dark and rich the soil is?
The Start of My Journey Through Kibugumo
Walking through the rich and fertile lands, situated between tall exotic palm and coconut trees and extra lush greenery, made me feel as if I was walking through the garden of Eden-A land flowing with milk and honey as described in the christian bible.
There were many pathways to cross to get into the different villages, and I went through almost every single one of them! From crossing through small bodies of water by stepping on river stones ( I tripped almost every time with sandals and a long dress) or via a narrow bridge-to lounging or jumping over mini obstacles, (I whizzed through some of these mini obstacles like a pro) to going through the straight and easier, but longer ways, to passing through vendors with outdoor or indoor shops.
Mangos
Mango Tree
Healing Trees
I was introduced to several healing plants and trees that a typical person would pass by and not even know that they are in the midst of a beautiful healing garden.
What I Saw In Some Of The Tanzanian Village Streets
Walking through long and winding dirt roads, passing by those who were either riding bikes, on boda-boda- walking alone or in groups, Muslim women, youth and young adults, as well as very small children running, laughing, and playing-young cow herders, groups of women chillin’ under a tree on their property either talking, laughing amongst each other, playing with their children, cooking, or braiding one another’s hair. Workmen building homes, merchants selling food, or household goods in their stores.
I enjoyed seeing groups of men young and old talking, joking, horse playing, or playing chess, all while hearing the sounds of Roosters crowing throughout the day. At night, the youth would gather at a particular place set up outdoors, to watch a soccer match or movie every night. Also, they had a small outdoor library and game room for children within the village. Every morning, and 3 times a day, I found myself looking forward to hearing the sounds of the Muslim calling from one of the village mosques. I got quite accustomed to the sounds and day to day routine of Tanzanian African village life, and I loved it!
Read-Saying Goodbye to Dar es Salaam for now, and some other Ramblings
The very first time I visited Tanzania in October 2021, I fell in love with African dirt roads!
I enjoy walking on dirt roads with my sandals on or off.
Small Huts are Part of the African Culture
I observed that when living in a small hut or home, you are able to be and feel closer to your family. Laugh together, cook together, eat together, sleep together, play together. Many do not consider this type of living “poor”.
Boarded windows or living in your house while waiting for it to be completed is also not uncommon, or looked down upon.
You will even see some older men and women sleeping at night or taking a nap during the day outside of their homes on the porch or ground with a blanket, skins, or some sort of wicker/straw mat underneath them.
Everyday in the Village Seemed Like A Fun Experience
There were areas where you wouldn’t even know that behind a large lush bush were 4 separate homes-Or behind extremely tall trees were large modern homes. And then there were some unexpected areas where as you would turn the corner, you would enter into a different vibe with long shopping (flea market) strips filled with a ton of buyers and merchants.
The best part of staying in the villages, was whether it be early day or late, late night, I constantly felt like I was linked to the community because Tanzanians were always outside talking, laughing, greeting, cooking, eating, playing games, listening to music, walking, dancing, selling, washing clothes, or cleaning.
Watch Africa is Self Sufficient Pinterest Story
Watch Traditional Village Pinterest Story
Book Your Trip to Dar es Salaam With Me at Tiffany Tene' Travels
Have you visited any of the villages in Tanzania? Share your experience below in the comments.
Saying Goodbye to Dar es Salaam, Tanzania Africa For Now, and Some Other Ramblings
Hapana! (No) I don’t wanna go!🥲
I’ve had so much fun here in Dar es Salaam once again, that I am already planning a 3rd trip! If you are
Hapana! (No) I don’t wanna go!🥲
I’ve had so much fun here in Dar es Salaam once again, that I am already planning a 3rd trip!
It’s been a while!
If you are new to my blog, or haven’t read my about me page, I grew up in Northern California, (Fremont) and had the pleasure of going to grade school, and high school with a lot of foreign students-from Mexico, to Saudia Arabia, Hawaii, Guam, Costa Rica, India, Puerto Rico, China, Germany, Vietnam, Philippines, and so much more. If you look at my high school yearbook, it is mostly filled with students from all around the world!
I believe that my traveling spirit stems from a combination of having the pleasure of studying and being friends with kids and their families from different countries, and my military grandfather, uncles, and cousins on my mother's side of the family.
Rewind
When I moved to Texas in my 20's, I was devastated to see that there was not as much diversity! I didn’t think that I would be able to live without all of the cultural diversity that I had gotten so used to in California.
But what I didn’t know was that the Universe had something better in store for me!
AFRICANS!
Entering the medical field in Houston, Texas I was surrounded around a lot of Africans from Nigeria. Though at first we bumped heads, I was attracted to their ambition, their work status, and discipline. But mostly, how they all helped, supported, and encouraged one another. Soon, as I showed interest, and asked questions, they were teaching me about their culture, and supporting and encouraging me as if I was their own. I began my own research about the continent of Africa, and grew even closer to my new co-workers and friends from Nigeria, Kenya, and Cameroon. Around this time, I was rejected by some of the African Americans that I was around including my own family who refused to believe (because of ignorance and brainwashing) that our ancestors come from the African continent. Some telling me that I act as if my new African friends were better-Noooo, I just feel more comfortable around Africans who have not lost their language and culture. I truly feel at home and have a deeper connection with them because they know who they are as the African race-and who they are, is who we are supposed to be, and where they are, is where we are originally supposed to be.
After spending so much time within the Nigerian community, I began to have a gut feeling that somehow I was Nigerian. After I took my DNA test in 2020, I cried tears of joy when it was revealed that I am 44% Nigerian-my maternal (my mother's mother) results. While waiting on my results, I had a Nigerian Uber driver tell me that he can almost guarantee that I am not Nigerian because I do not have Nigerian features-He says, No, you have Eritrean Ethiopian features. Although he was not rude, and I have heard this before by some of the Nigerians that I used to work with, I really felt like someone punched me in the stomach when he said that! (I began explaining to him that my features resemble my Spanish great great grandparents which make up my mother’s Paternal genes-my mother’s father….and that my grandmother, my mother’s mother, has more African features.)
FAST FORWARD⏩️To Tanzania!
I thought that Nigeria was going to be the first African country that I would be exploring, but for some reason, the Universe has lead me to Tanzania, which is in East Africa. My assumption of why I feel a strong connection here is that it’s in my DNA too-I tested 11% Bantu. Maybe I have more East African genes on my father’s side or perhaps on my mother’s father’s side? That’s my own assumption. All I know is that I now feel one with Tanzanians just as much as I do with Nigerians.
As I say baadaye (later in Swahili) for now, after being in Tanzania for one month, I already know that my life is about to undergo a drastic change.
Watch My Love Affair with Africa Intro Video:
My Website
I want to start promoting my Poshmark store over affiliate marketing. I love being an online merchant on Poshmark, and would like to promote items in my stores as well as fellow Poshmark sellers over affiliates. This only makes sense. I am a seller, and so I will still promote other brands, but primarily through Yazing.
Have you heard of Yazing?
Yazing is an affiliate marketers platform, somewhat similar to Rakuten. Like most marketing platforms, as an affiliate marketer, you get a certain percentage, or dollar amount for every buyer who uses your special link to make a purchase. The difference with Yazing is that I am more like a third party so therefore, there is no pressure to market, and no quota. This works out better for me because I already have my own store.
Yazing is legit, and has many top brands and stores that they help promote. When I use a Yazing link in my blog posts to promote, and you click on it, it will look like this. Press on the red reward button, and it will say that I may earn cash or rewards on your transactions. I earn cash or rewards for referring you to specific brands. Underneath the brand it will have one or several savings buttons for you to click on
If the item that I have referred you to is not specified below the brand, you can press on any shop now button and then search at the top of page for the item or hotel name that I have referred you to.
I also want to write more about different tribes, culture, and genealogy, relocating and moving abroad, work and travel, location independence, traveling tips, and hone in more on the continent of Africa and Dar es Salaam, Tanzania.
Read:
My First International Solo Trip to Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
Staying at Kijiji Beach Resort in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
12 Simple Ways to Save You Money When Booking Your Flight Tickets
My Stores
I have added some trendy boutique items to my Poshmark store! As mentioned in previous Whats up with Tiffany Tene’ blog posts, I am also working with local East African Artists, so that I can start selling more African goods-this was another reason for my recent trip. I already have some Tanzanian items up for sale in my Poshmark store! Eventually, I will be more active on Etsy, and start selling directly on Pinterest and on my website. Yay! But I am so so late on doing this!
Where you can find me
I am an e-commerce seller and active in the Poshmark community, so you can find me on Poshmark. I also have been spending a lot of time on Pinterest. (Check out my Tanzanian pictures, videos, and story pins-Don’t forget to repin!).
If you have been trying to contact me, or have contacted me before in the past, please do so again at my new e-mail address which is tenetta4@gmail.com. You can also contact me here if you would like to be a guest writer, for collaborations, to connect with me in regards to your own African Journey, or for any questions that you may have.
Well, every year, I take a little summer break from my blog, so I will be back to blog writing shortly. I know, I’m behind on all of this, but will soon catch up!
I am also a travel agent advisor and concierge now!
Book all of your travels with me at Tiffany Tene Travels
Read-Globaltravel.com Welcomes New Travel Agent-Tiffany Tene'
Tiffany Tene' in Africa
Africa is a beautiful continent filled with 54 countries-rich in culture, family, community, land, soil, resources, and melanin. I want to show Africa’s strength, livelihood, love & acceptance, and some of the many different traditions, tribes, and cultures of our beautiful race. Starting in
Habari my friends! I am in Tanzania once again!
This time around, I will be exploring the many different districts, tribes, and people in Dar es Salaam.
Learning The Truth About Africa
The whole continent of Africa and its people have been misrepresented-We have been misrepresented-Our ancestors have been misrepresented. I discovered this fact in 2003, while working predominantly with Nigerians in the medical field in Houston, Texas.
Every Nation has its challenges, strengths, and weaknesses-but far too many times, those of us who were born in America (no matter what your ethnicity is) have only been told and/or shown the challenges and hardships of Africa.
We as African Americans whose ancestors were brought to America as slaves, cannot place all of the blame on Europeans, or the American History school system when it comes to searching for answers about Africa-Because for centuries, there have been many books, and documentaries about the rich history and cultures in Africa. If we want to learn anything about Africa, we must do our own research.
Read-My First International Solo Trip to Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
Africa is a beautiful continent filled with 54 countries-rich in culture, family, community, land, soil, resources, and melanin. I want to show Africa’s strength, livelihood, love & acceptance, and some of the many different traditions, tribes, and cultures of our beautiful race.
Starting in Tanzania!
So far in my life’s journey, 90% of the time, I have experienced nothing but love, respect, acceptance, and humbleness, not only with Tanzanians, but with Nigerians, Cameroonians, and Kenyans.
What's up with Tiffany Tene'?
I am currently working on creating more blog content and pinterest stories!
I have so much to share about my past and present experiences with Africans, that I am overwhelmed-in a good way. .
Shown in my cover photo, is a shot of me (and the Boda-Boda driver) on a Boda- Boda in Africa for the first time. A Boda Boda is a motorbike taxi, and is one of the popular modes of transportation here in Africa. Riding on the Boda-Boda is soooo much fun! I also love catching rides in a Bajaji. A Bajaji can be powered by a motorcycle, electric motor, or car engine. Watch me riding in a Bajaji in my Pinterest story below!
Read:
Staying at Kijiji Beach Resort in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
12 Simple Ways To Save You Money When Booking Your Flight Tickets
Follow me on my African journey! You can find me actively pinning and posting stories/videos on Pinterest!
kwaheri kwa sasa,
Tiffany Tene’
Me and Young Masaai Man who agreed to take a picture with me
Staying at Kijiji Beach Resort in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
The minute that I made the decision to visit Dar es Salaam, I began searching for the perfect spot to stay for my 7 day trip. Though I was in an online travel group, I decided to do this part of the planning by myself.
For my first trip to Africa, I wanted an authentic and traditional Tanzanian lodging experience! After researching for a few days on booking.com I was positive that Kijiji Beach Resort was the place where I would be staying for my very first international solo journey.
I also sent my lodging plans to one of my Tanzanian guides, who later confirmed that it was indeed a beautiful place to stay-He even went a step further, by going to Kijiji Beach Resort to video chat with me a few days before I left the states, so that I can actually see and feel the beach resort vibes in real-time. This made me even more excited!
My Room Cost:
$265.00 including taxes for 7 days…
Yep, you read that right. For what it would cost in America for a 1 night stay at a regular hotel!
Booking at Kijiji Beach Resort
If you book online through booking.com you will have the option to reserve now, and pay at the resort. When I finally got to the resort, I was not even required to pay right away, neither was there an upfront deposit or cleaning fee.
Other Hotel Fees
Whatever you eat and drink during your stay at Kijiji Beach Resort can be charged to your tab whether you are dining in or out of your room. So make sure you keep up with your expenses while at the resort, and hold onto your meal receipts so that if any mistakes are made, you will have proof of all of your purchases and payments. I personally always paid for my drinks and meals upfront, and never had them charge any of my food to my hotel tab.
Tax Fees
As I was reading the Kijiji Beach Hotel reviews, there were a few people claiming that they were being overcharged upon check out. *There is a tax fee of $1.50 that will be charged for each night of your stay. This fee may not be included in your total cost online, but is stated in fine print when you book your stay on booking.com.
Currency
Tanzanian currency calculates at 2,000 TSH (t-shillings) for every $1.00 USD. Kijiji Beach Resort allows for you to either pay in their currency as well as in US dollars. They also offer currency exchange at the front desk.
TIP: Understand, calculate, and budget using Tanzanian currency before your trip. When trip planning, instead of calculating USD to TSH, try calculating TSH to USD. You can find most expenses at numbeo.com
How To Get There:
Kijiji Beach Resort is in the Kigamboni district of Dar es Salaam Tanzania. From Julius Nyere Airport, it was a 1 hour ride in the Bajaji. A Bajaji is like a covered motorcycle that can be powered by a motorcycle, electric motor, or car engine.
I highly recommend riding in a Bajaji! This will allow you to get an up close and personal view of the rural side of Dar while you are on your way to the Resort. Plus, it's inexpensive and so much fun! Watching the daily life of Tanzanians while riding in the Bajaji on my very first visit was amazing!
I did have a personal Tanzanian guide who took care of my pick-up arrangements, but if you wanted to catch a ride in a Bajaji to Kijiji Beach Resort, they are parked right outside of the front entrance to the airport, in front of the gas station. This gas station area seems to be connected to the airport, and has onsite police officers, so there should be no problems.
Kijiji Beach Resort offers pick-up and drop-off transportation services for around $40.00 USD-you may be able to negotiate a lower price.
Alternatively, if you do not have a rental car, or other transportation arrangements, there are buses and cabs available in front of Terminal 3.
*If I didn’t have a personal guide, I would definitely go with Kijiji Beach Resort transportation services.
Staying at Kijiji Beach Resort in Dar es Salaam,Tanzania
Located in the Kigamboni district of Dar es Salaam Tanzania, Kijiji Beach Resort is a private beachfront stay that lies exotically on the coast of The Indian Ocean. Approximately 10 meters from the beach, you will experience the tranquility of a beautiful lush tropical garden.
Entering Kijiji Beach Resort
Before entering the beach resort gates, you are taken down a long bumpy dirt road. Upon arrival you will be respectfully greeted by a few of the men from the Masaai tribe, along with front desk staff and workers.
TIP: Be sure to study your Swahili greetings so that you can properly greet and thank them. With the exception of the Masaai, most staff speaks English.
The country's national language is Swahili so learning just a few words in their language is always a good idea.
Hi- Jambo or Mambo
What's up- Mambo vipi ( I practically say this one everyday now)
Most importantly Asante which means thank you-Asante sana-thank you very much
Ndio-yes
Hapana-No
Once checked in, one of the staff showed me to my room, while a handsome Maasai man carried my luggage😉
Oh, the Maasai are hired on staff as keepers and guards. One of my other guides told me that The Maasai men makes sure that the resort stays safe-Masaai Herders Now Dar Security Guards
My Room
Accommodation
I had the pleasure of staying in room Tembo B!
Tembo in Swahili means Elephant.
Tembo B is a deluxe bungalow with a garden view and balcony. The covered balcony had natural wood table and chairs. I absolutely loved it! I especially enjoyed sitting outside on the front balcony, enjoying nature, taking in the Tanzanian vibes, talking to new friends, and drinking wine.
My room was located close to the resort entrance which is a great spot if you want to be further away from all of the parties, noise, and music on the weekends. I personally did not mind the noise and loud music-I mean it is a beach resort!
Every single night, I slept like a baby and woke up to the sounds of crowing roosters and beautifully harmonized singing birds. I slept so good that the staff had to come to my door to wake me up almost every morning so that I wouldn't miss breakfast. Though at times I wanted to sleep in, I really appreciated them for thinking about me!
On a daily basis, I was provided with 2 complimentary Tanzanian bottled waters, housekeeping, pest control-for mosquitoes, and breakfast buffet.
Inside Tembo B
Tembo B is equipped with a large walk-in shelf closet with a long mirror, clothing rack, hangers, and a safe to store valuables.
Decor
The room was beautifully decorated with Tanzanian art! The natural make of the lamp covering and wooded wall decor with seashells provided me with the perfect Tanzanian room experience!
Tanzanian Breakfast Buffet
Upon arriving for breakfast, the waiters will greet you and make you feel right at home. Every morning, waiter Musa cheerfully explained each and every Tanzanian dish that was displayed. After each meal, they take an account for who was there that morning, and you will sign off on a sheet before leaving the restaurant area.
Although you can order your food and have a Kijiji Beach Resort Staff serve you in your room, or on the balcony, I always ate right on the beach, or at the resort restaurant so that I can talk and laugh with the friendly waiters, people watch, and chill by the beach.
One day, while at the breakfast buffet, I had the pleasure of meeting and dining with the owner and his wife. The owner of Kijiji Beach Resort is a down to earth man with a great sense of humor and is from Switzerland. His wife is a beautiful outgoing Tanzanian woman who also very teasingly funny. The owner and I sat and talked for almost 2 hours!
All juices are freshly squeezed!
Guess how much my dinner was in USD?
Dinner Music and Parties On The Beach
Blaring with the sounds of a mixture of Tanzanian Bongo Flava and American 2000 R&B music, there was never a dull moment at Kijiji Beach Resort. The DJ setup is right on the beach, and he begins spinning tunes at around 10:00 am-11 am. Music continues all day and night until around 11:00 pm.
Weddings, birthday parties, get-togethers, and reunions, are mostly celebrated at Kijiji beach on the weekends. So the weekends are a bit crowded. If you enjoy hearing lots of laughter, joking, kids, dancing to the rhythmic sounds of Tanzanian music, and meeting new people, you will especially enjoy your stay on the weekends.
While conversing with the owner of the resort, he asked me if the music was too loud, because he was getting some complaints. I said, well as for me, I enjoy loud music so I have no complaints. In my opinion, a resort is supposed to be a party-like atmosphere anyways. Also, the staff had already made me aware of the noise difference on the weekends versus the weekdays. I was not bothered at all. My enjoyable 7 day stay was a mixture of quiet and loud, which suited me just fine.
But if you plan on going to bed before 11:00 pm, room Tembo B would be perfect for you, because as I stated earlier, it is close to the entrance, and the furthest room away from the beach and music.
Swimming Pool
Beachfront Bar
Outside Bathrooms and Showers
Barracuda Beach
Right next to Kijiji Beach resort is Barracuda Beach.
Feel free to roam!
The Best Ways To Learn A Different Language
Learning how to speak a different language can sometimes be challenging. I can read, write, understand, and carry on a conversation in Spanish, but I do need to learn more vocabulary words, and get back to speaking it more often. Currently, I am learning how to speak Swahili, Arabic, and Igbo.
There are quite a few other languages that I would love to be able to speak fluently-such as Japanese, French, and Yoruba!
The Number 1 Way To Learn a Different Language
The number one way to master a foreign language is to completely immerse yourself in another country, by dwelling within and among the culture, community, and people on a daily basis.
But if you cannot physically do this on a regular, don’t worry-Because I have found some other ways that will help you learn how to speak all of the languages your heart desires!
The Best Ways To Learn a Different Language
Network in Private Traveling Facebook Groups
(Use wise judgement)
There are many Americans who have already been to, or live in the country in which you want to learn from. They are on the ground, have done the foot work, and have already made connections with trusted local foreigners. If you have been following and observing a particular traveler, digital nomad, expat, or someone who has relocated to another county, they can always refer you to the connections that they have made.
This is actually how I found my Tanzanian guides!
Make sure that you do your own research, and have contacted the leader of the Facebook travelling group via video chat, and/or WhatsApp. Once trust has been established between you and the selected person from the country in which you desire to learn from, find out if your new foreign contact wants monetary compensation before starting your language exchange. Also, always make sure that you do all verification and language exchanges through video chats.
Above are pictures of my Tanzanian guides and language teachers-taken in Dar es, Salaam, Tanzania!
Read-10 Things American Travelers Can Do to Make Foreign Friends in the US
Read-My First International Solo Trip to Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
2. Become a Private English Tutor on Cambly
Cambly is an online English teaching platform where students from all over the world come to learn English one-on-one through video chat. You do not need teaching experience, or a teaching degree to teach English on Cambly. Become a private English tutor, make money, and learn different languages through your students all at the same time!
3. Take Free Language Classes on Alison
Alison.com is my favorite online learning platform! You can go to school for free, and get a certificate and diploma from every single trade, subject, and career that you can think of. The only thing that you have to pay for is your certificates and diplomas, but it is not mandatory. Sign up for Alison and learn a new language.
4. Try Language Pod 101
This is the awesome online language learning platform that I use to learn Arabic! You can join for free and receive a new word and phrase via e-mail everyday.
(I love listening to the audios! )
If you really want to master a new language, purchase a subscription and get audio, video, flashcards, slideshows, a personalized teacher, programs, feedback, assignments, and more!
5. Watch YouTube Foreign Language Instructional Videos
You can learn a new language everyday before you watch your favorite You Tubers! This is how I am learning Igbo! Whenever you hop on You Tube, search the language that you want to learn, pick a teacher, and subscribe.
6. Listen to Languages from a Different Country While you Sleep
This can be found on You Tube as well. Watch the video above to see how it works.
7. Watch Foreign Movies and Shows
Watching foreign shows is an excellent way to pick up on different languages. When viewing, put on English caption and take notes. Pay close attention to the actors pronunciation, attitude, pitch, and tone.
I am a lover of foreign films, so I already do this almost everyday! Before there was streaming, I would watch Spanish soap operas and Nigerian movies on regular television. Now I watch foreign shows on Netflix, Peacock, Pluto TV, Tubi, and of course You Tube.
For the past couple of weeks, I have been binge watching a lot of Chinese Female warrior movies. Also, ever since I moved from Houston to Arkansas, I got back into watching Spanish movies on a regular. Lately, I have been watching a ton of Colombian shows! This is one of my favorite ways to brush up on my Spanish..It's really motivating! After watching, I always just want to speak Spanish all of the time!
My great-grandfather (my mothers’s father’s father) was a Spaniard. My mom said that when he took ill, he completely stopped speaking English, and reverted back to only speaking Spanish-My mother, aunts, and uncles, only knew how to speak a little bit of Spanish, but all had to help take care of him at a very young age. I love hearing family stories of how my great grandfather would speak to them in Spanish, and get so angry if my mom and her siblings couldn’t understand him.
8. Listen to Songs and Watch Music Videos in a Different Language
It’s so much fun to listen to music from the country that you are learning a different language from. You can also learn a lot of foreign slang words! Do this on a regular basis, and you will be singing and dancing to all different kinds of songs in multiple languages in no time!
9. Host an Exchange Student
Consider hosting an exchange student from one of your favorite countries.
Become a Volunteer Host Family
10. Speak and Write a New Language Everyday
To fast track your learning process, you can set a specific time to study a new language in as little as 15 minutes to an hour a day. You don’t even have to cram everything in all at one time. Just take it kidogo kidogo…(a little at a time in Swahili.)
By utilizing all of these tools, you will not only know how to say a few foreign words, sentences, and phrases, but you will also be on the path to become fluent in many different languages.
Atlas Coffee From Around The World Holiday Sale
Seriously, I don’t know what I would do without coffee! The beans, the taste, the aroma! Ahhhhhh!
I love every single part of the coffee experience. From purchasing, to opening the coffee bag, to smelling the grinds, (I have to smell them every single time I make a fresh batch of coffee) to roasting and brewing, then onto watching the swirling hot steam ☕before finally taking my first sip of the day.
Every morning, my home is filled with the fresh scent of authentic coffee. Just the smell alone, makes me high!
Coffee is so embedded in my system, that I can get it to do whatever I want. Meaning, when I need to unwind in the evening, I grab a cup of hot coffee. Instead of it keeping me up all night, it will soothe and relax me-And when I need to be extra charged and focused for the day, I pour me a cup of strong hot coffee-no milk, no cream, no sugar. Iced coffee does the trick for me in the morning or afternoon as well.
Though I often enjoy the quietness and solitude of drinking my coffee alone, I am always thrilled to have cake and coffee with my family and friends who are also coffee fanatics like me.
What about the people in your life? Do they enjoy coffee as much as you?
What kind of coffee do they drink?
Surprisingly, a lot of my family and friends have never had true authentic coffee, neither have they ever tasted coffee from other countries.
They love hearing me talk about it, but never attempt to buy or try. It’s sort of like those people who love the thought of traveling, but for some reason would rather watch, hear, and read stories about one’s adventures, than go out and do them.
This is why I will be gifting my family and friends with a special subscription from Atlas Coffee Club for Xmas.
Gift Your Family and Friends With an Atlas Coffee Club Subscription
Atlas Coffee Conoisseurs travel around to find the best coffee, from the best coffee growing countries in the world!
(This is the kind of coffee that you will not find in stores.)
How it Works
Each month, your family and friends will not only be gifted with a new coffee from a different country, but will also receive two beautifully designed postcards.
Along with a brief description of how your selected countries grow their coffee, Atlas Coffee Club cards also include brewing instructions, flavor notes, and fun facts about the history of each country.
At Atlas Coffee Club, you can choose to purchase half or whole bags, how your friends and family members like their coffee, and how often you would like for them to receive it.
Who knows what will come about while enjoying coffee from a new country every month?
Your family and friends just may end up visiting one, or all of the best coffee growing countries!
And don’t forget about you too!
I promise that if you are a true coffee lover, you will definitely notice a distinct difference in these select coffees from around the world!
Thank me later😉
Happy Native American Heritage Day!
Today we are celebrating our Native American history by remembering those tribes who are now extinct, tribes who were slaughtered by European colonists and settlers, and all Native American tribes who are still amongst the living-telling their true ancestoral stories, rich culture, and legacy.
We are also celebrating strong Native American cultural influences, which many Americans have stolen or adopted into their fashion designing, and wardrobe.
Cherokee Blood
The picture above is a picture of my great great great grandmother on my biological dad’s side of the family. This picture was given to us at a family reunion in Oklahoma by older family members who have been researching our ancestry since the 90's!
My great great great grandmother (dad's mother's mother, mother) was said to be part Cherokee. Although my cousin told me that Cherokee DNA had not been found in those who have been tested, I watched a video from a genealogist who said that you can still have Native American blood that may not show up. (Especially if you are half breed) No one that I know of has taken the Cherokee tribal test though, so this is something my family should be exploring.
Mine definitely will not show up through DNA testing outside of the Native American tribal ones, because Cherokee blood is on my paternal side. Since a female does not have the same chromosome makeup as a male, her paternal ancestry cannot be scientifically traced. Only maternal. So ladies, if you want to know about your father's DNA ancestry, your father, brother, or uncles will have to get a DNA test.
I strongly believe in preserving one’s culture, and ancestral practices no matter who’s language I and my ancestors have adopted, or were forced to adopt in the past.
Although I am a mixture of several races, without my original languages and cultures, I won't know who I truly am.
The Native American Elders have done an excellent job in passing down and upholding their cultural traditions no matter what happened in the past.
SOURCE-The American Indian By Colin Taylor
SOURCE-The American Indian By Colin Taylor
A lot of Native American traditional clothing and practices are similar to some indigenous African tribes-so although I may only have 1 or 2 drops of Native American blood, I still feel my Native American ancestors deep in my spirit.
My Native American Ancestors guide me as well. They make their presence known to me in many ways.
Click Here To Watch Video-Follow me in the woods to hear live Native American chants!
Yes! Today is Native American Heritage Day-But did you know that November was marked as Native American Heritage Month? I wrote an interesting article about it last year. In fact, after researching, and discovering the meaning behind the thanksgiving holiday from the eyes of Native Americans, I stopped celebrating thanksgiving cold turkey😄
If you are Native American or half-breed to 1 drop, sound off in the comment section below.
My Love Affair With Africa-New YouTube Channel
My love affair with Africa began primarily within the Nigerian community in Houston, Texas. But last year, I felt a very strong calling to Dar es Salaam, Tanzania.
Since July of 2020, I have spent countless days and sleepless nights researching, networking, and binge-watching numerous repatriation videos.
I just got back from my first trip to Africa, and now I am ready to share my long term, tight-knit, and personal relationships with Africans here in the states, my future plans, and yes,
My Love Affair With Africa!
Watch my new YouTube channel trailer, thumbs up if you like, and subscribe if you are obsessed with nature, beaches, diversity, travel, and African culture.
My Love Affair with Africa-Channel Trailer