Sunday Night South African Amapiano with Stakev and Kabza De Small
My Sunday night Amapiano song pick is called Rekere. Rekere is an “alternative name for Barcardi a style
My Sunday night Amapiano song pick is called Rekere. Rekere is an “alternative name for Barcardi a style of house music”. (Source: Mzansi Taal-The South African Lingo Dictionary) This song is all you need to listen and dance to all night long, and into your Monday morning!
I can’t stop listening! Let’s Goooo!
Also listen to Amapiano Day Vibes Mix by Kabza De Small here
(Rakere 9 will be on repeat in 2024. Thank me later)
*Photo Source: Spotify
Tiffany Tene' has been featured on the Redfin Blog!
We were featured in an article on the Redfin blog about
We were featured in an article on the Redfin blog about Corpus Christi, TX. Check out the blog article here!
*Photo Source-Tiffany Tene’
Rashin Sani Ya Fi Dare Duhu
Making up approximately 25% of the population, The Hausa people are the largest ethnic group in Nigeria. There is a Hausa proverb that says, Rashin sani ya duhu-The English interpretation of this proverb is: Ignorance is darker than
Making up approximately 25% of the population, The Hausa people are the largest ethnic group in Nigeria.
There is a Hausa proverb that says, Rashin sani ya duhu-The English interpretation of this proverb is: Ignorance is darker than the night.
My First Encounter with a Hausa
*My first time meeting a person of Hausa ethnicity, was in 2021. While out shopping in Houston, Texas I met an African Elder who owns an African Jamaican store called, ‘TATA Afrika Imports’. (Tata also has a great wealth of knowledge in African history!) While conversing with Tata about African ancestry, he looked like he saw a ghost, after I showed him a picture of my great great grandmother! He then pulled out his cell phone and showed me a video of his 100 year old grandmother, whom he would be visiting on his then upcoming trip to Nigeria. We were both taken aback, and almost speechless! OMG! They looked like twins!
(I have also speculated that my Nigerian DNA ethnicity is Fulani or Igbo. I am now learning that there are also Hausa-Fulani! Next year, I will take the African ancestry DNA to find out my ethnicity.)
My maternal great great grandmother
I still could not believe that out of the 10 years that I had been working with, and befriending Nigerians in Houston, Tata was the only person from the Hausa tribe that I had met. I actually felt honored to meet him, for he completed my cultural encounters with the top 3 ethnic groups in Nigeria-Hausa, Yoruba, and Igbo.
Rashin Sani Ya Fi Dare Duhu
In my own ignorance and lack of research at the time, I thought that because Houston had a high population of Yoruba Nigerians, that Yoruba was the largest ethnic group in Nigeria.
Rashin Sani Ya Fi Dare Duhu
There are a lot of empty spaces, missing pieces, and made up stories when it comes to African history. The true history of Africa is a very important and major link to World history, in which we all cannot afford to be ignorant to.
One of my major goals in life, and on this blog, is to perform thorough research about Africa, through factual and proven documentaries, science, books, historical passages, (by African scholars and historians on the continent) through my own experiences, and by talking with African elders.
Rashin Sani Ya Fi Dare Duhu
Because the continent of Africa and the African race has been greatly misunderstood and misrepresented all over the world, (more than any other place and race, in my opinion) we all need to be less ignorant when it comes to its history, countries, languages, ethnicities, cultures, and spirituality.
Rashin Sani Ya Fi Dare Duhu
Mwenda Pole Hajikwai
Mwenda Pole Hajikwai is a Swahili proverb meaning-
Mwenda Pole Hajikwai is a Swahili proverb meaning-
He who walks slowly, does not stumble.
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.
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-
Stay Focused My Friends!
Stay focused like a horse with blinders.
Stay focused like a horse with blinders.
Just Because You Can Doesn’t Mean That You Should
This is just a short little tip and saying that came to me when it comes to business and personal finances. I am learning that just because you can, doesn't mean that you should.
Self Analysis
Start questioning your motives behind everything that
This is just a short little tip and saying that came to me when it comes to business and personal finances. I am learning that just because you can, doesn't mean that you should.
Self Analysis
Start questioning your motives behind everything that you are spending and investing your money on and in.
Just because you can, doesn’t mean that you should!
The Best Ways To Save Money So That You Can Travel Abroad While Working a Full-Time Job-and While Building Multiple Businesses
Since October 2021, I have been to Dar es Salaam, Tanzania not once, not twice, but three times. On my second trip to Dar in May 2022, I stayed a full 30 days, and fell deeper in love with the country-So much that once I returned home, I immediately started planning my next trip to go back before the American holiday season this year! And did! I went back for a 1 week stay at the end of October 2022.
My family and co-workers said, “Again??” And just recently, my favorite comment
Since October 2021, I have been to Dar es Salaam, Tanzania not once, not twice, but three times. On my second trip to Dar in May 2022, I stayed a full 30 days, and fell deeper in love with the country-So much that once I returned home, I immediately started planning my next trip to go back before the American holiday season this year!
And did! I went back for a 1 week stay at the end of October 2022.
My family and co-workers said, “Again??” And just recently, my favorite comment from a co-worker was, “Oh, so you just hop up and go to Africa whenever you want??”🤣
How am I able to do all of this trip planning, work full-time, homeschool my younger 2 boys, work on expanding my private senior care business, run a small online boutique, and work on building other multiple streams of income?
In this blog post, I will be sharing with you the best ways to save money while working a full-time job, so that you can travel more. This will be based on some of my personal experiences.
Read-12 Simple Ways to Save you Money When Booking Your Flight Tickets
First Things First
First off, personally, I am not going to just hop up and leave my job or business ever again without careful planning. I have carelessly done both of those before a few years ago, and well, to make a long story short, it was a disaster. But I have lived and learned, bumped my head quite a few times, and can now say that my mistakes equipped me to become a pro when it comes to relocating, planning and transitioning, moving, and traveling domestically. And now, I am learning more and more about traveling internationally, so that I can become a pro when traveling overseas as well.
Read-The Number One Thing You Must Do Before You Start A Business
I have also learned that keeping a full-time job while running and building businesses on the side is key. This will keep your money flowing until money starts to CONSISTENTLY flow in your businesses. And even when money starts flowing consistently in your businesses, it would be wise for you to still keep your full-time job for a while.
Also, if you don't want to get into too much loan debt, you will need your full-time job to fund your businesses.
Read:
10 Things I'm Doing Right Now While Preparing To Live and Work Abroad
Online Courses Every New Content Creator Needs To Take For Their Business To Survive
I used to think that I was being a hypocrite by keeping my full-time job, and operating as a business owner and entrepreneur, until I later found out that so many other people were doing this.
The very first person who I heard of that talked about working full-time while running multiple businesses, is a serial entrepreneur who relocated to South Korea by the name of Jessica Frye.
“I built my confidence from working for other people. Before I ever opened my own business, I was able to juggle 3 or 4 jobs at one time-and I was able to mange money before I ever opened my own business….”
(@6:48 Working Full-Time and using your money to fund your businesses)
The Best Ways To Save Money So That You Can Travel Abroad While Working a Full-Time Job- and While Building Multiple Businesses
Live with your parents, grandparents, close friend, a sibling, or an understanding family member
This is the number one way to cut expenses and travel while working full-time, but only if your family and friends are supportive of what you are doing.
2. Ditch your cash car and/or car payments
By ditching your cash car you will not have to spend any extra money on maintenance, car repairs, and all other major car work that comes with having a used cash car-For newer vehicles, you will of course have no car payments.
By going carless, you will not have to spend money on car insurance, and you will not have the extra liabilities that come along during harsh weather conditions.
Public Transportation
When you go carless, you will be able to network, meet a lot of interesting people, market your businesses-see, visit, and discover new things around your city that you wouldn’t have even paid attention to if you had been driving. You can be sure that you will be saving money for your travels when you catch the bus, walk, metro rail, Uber, Cab, and Lyft.
*Alot of frequent travelers do not own cars.
3. Relocate to a different city or state that has a lower cost of living
If it seems impossible for you to live with other people, consider relocating to another city or state where the cost of living is low.
4. Keep watch on all of your expenses like a hawk
Write everything that you buy down to the penny. Don’t skimp out on this, and just keep your receipts, nod and say, “Yep, I know exactlywhat I’m spending my money on”! Actually write everything that you spend down on paper, and/or in your phone-add, subtract, multiply, and divide every time money comes in, and goes out.
*Sometimes you think you have more than you actually do, and sometimes you think that you have less than you actually do, when you don’t have a specific notebook set aside to write your day to day expenses in.
5. Get a non stressful, part-time job, in addition to your main full-time job-Or if possible, work a couple of full-time jobs
Pick up a simple part-time job on the weekends, or on your off days, and use your earnings to travel.
Or, work 2 full-time jobs; Try to find a job or career where you work 3 nights a week for 12 hours, then you will have more time to work another full-time job, (or a few other small jobs) work on your businesses, and/or side-hustles, so that you can begin generating more money to travel.
Living Life On Your Terms-Doing What You Want-How You Want-When You Want
Take inventory of why you are making the decisions that you are making. This is very important if you want to take full control of your life. Why are you living the way you are living? Why are you married or in partnership with your person? Are you living and driven by your own wants, needs, desires, or by someone’s else’s? This is key to living a truly fulfilled life-living life on your own terms. Trusting yourself, and getting to the
It’s time to start doing what you want, how you want, and when you want…Without worrying about anyone else’s approval or opinions… especially if you are grown!
Wherever and however you are living your life, are you truly happy and content?
The Typical Life
Do you have a house, apartment, town home, or condo, where you are paying a monthly contract-plus a couple of nice cars, (with car payments) but living paycheck to paycheck?
Are you anxious about your bills and on edge all of the time about money? Do you pay all of your household needs on time, but barely have anything left over after all is paid? Are you really satisfied with your job and/or business?
Maybe you don’t have money problems, but still feel discontented and unsatisfied with your life. Maybe you are receiving a nice salary, but just need to manage your money better.
If your life situation resembles any of these above scenarios, don’t you think that it’s time to start doing what you really want to do in life? Don’t you think it’s time to live like you have always wanted to live without being concerned about what your family, friends, or society will think?
How and where do you really want to live?
If you have a steady income, and want to live in a van, camper, and travel, do it. If you want to travel the world, live and retire in a different country, do it. If you want to move and live in a different place every week or month without multiple bills and contracts, do it. If you have always wanted to live on a boat, do it. If your parents are begging you to live closer to them, or maybe even move back in with them, and you secretly want to, do it. If you want to live out of a suitcase, and prefer travel and experiences over things, do it. If you want to visit all 50 states in America, do it.
Start getting comfortable with the fact that you know what’s best for you!
I’m writing this article to encourage you to start living the way you want
If your tired of people saying, “why don’t you do it like this?” or, “Why are you going there?” -every time you feel like you have made a good decision that you know will benefit you, then keep reading my friends.
Liberate Yourself!
I am now finally on track to doing what I really want to do-Not what my friends, family, or former partners want me to do. I’m not living the type of lifestyle other people envision or expect of me. I'm not making decisions based on what other people are saying or advising. I am finally fully trusting myself, listening, obeying, and acting on my gut instincts about my own life, and it feels liberating.
Living Life On Your Terms-Doing What You Want-How You Want-When You Want
Take inventory of why you are making the decisions that you are making. This is very important if you want to take full control of your life. Why are you living the way you are living? Why are you married or in partnership with your person? Are you living and driven by your own wants, needs, desires, or by someone’s else’s? This is key to living a truly fulfilled life-living life on your own terms. Trusting yourself, and getting to the core of what you really want out of life.
When you start doing this, the Universe will begin to surround you around like-minded people, your friendship and dating circles will change, your vibe and outlook on life will change, you will start becoming more optimistic, and the outcome on the decisions that you make based on trusting in yourself, will flow better. Nothing is perfect, but you will know, understand, and see that when the imperfections come and are allowed, it was sent or happened for a very specific, and sometimes life changing reason.
Read-This is How I Receive Special Messages From the Universe During Nature Walks
Options
Do you have options? Many times when you don’t have options in life, you will feel trapped. If you don’t have options, you will feel that there is only one way to go about your daily life. When you don't have options, or are not open to other options, you will get into a routine that doesn't excite you, or make you feel motivated about your goals.There are many options and avenues to get what you want out of life, all you have to do is find the courage to take the leap to explore them.
Read-10 Things I am Doing Right Now to Prepare For International Living
Stability
You can live in one place and still be unstable. Just because you move around and live place to place, doesn’t mean that you are not stable or settled. As a matter of fact, you can be more emotionally, mentally, and financially stable moving around from place to place, than you would be living and “settled down” in one place. Many people are “settled”, and seem to have it all, but are still unhappy and depressed.
It all depends on you
Take the time to find out more about YOU. If you are like me, you will be rediscovering and learning about yourself all over again, once the societal changes have taken place. Look over your life and take inventory of what it is that makes you consistently tick. What keeps you on your toes? What environment flows with your energy? What type of people match your energy? Who takes away from your positive vibe? Who do you need to leave behind, in order for you to start fully thriving? Who and what do you need to keep in order to live your life on your terms? I am the happiest when I am_____________. Only YOU know the real answer-But it most likely will be several answers to this question.
I go where I want to go-when I want to go-and how I want to go…
and if and when the circumstance changes, I have a backup plan where I can easily move and pivot without stressing. This is the real me. But if I am constantly living in an environment where the energy is unlike mine, my own energy will be blocked, I will become stagnant, and won't be able to flow like I am supposed to.
Read-Get Rid of Everything and Everyone in Your Life Who is Not In Alignment With Who you Are
Once you begin to experience a consistent flow of abundance in all areas of your life, based upon the decisions that you are making for YOU, you will never look back, or second guess yourself ever again!
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.
How Forest Bathing Can Enhance Your Life
So I have been living in the natural state of Arkansas for almost a year now, and what have I been spending a chunk of my time doing? Forest Bathing!
What is Forest Bathing?
Forest bathing is when you emerge and soak yourself up in nature-ideally around a lot of trees in the woods. When Forest Bathing, you are taking in all of the natural oxygen that the trees provide, listening to the sounds of birds, crickets, frogs, ducks, and other unrecognizable animal sounds…noticing the whistling in the wind, watching and listening to the gentle rush of the lake waters, admiring all of the colors and elements of nature that is around you, being grateful in the present moment, touching and smelling the forest…
How Forest Bathing Can Enhance Your Life
According to a Japanese shinrin-yoku scientific study- which means spend more time around trees, Forest Therapy/Bathing can do the following:
Protect from germs and insects
Help our immune system
Lower heart and blood pressure
Lower stress hormones
Reduce depression
Boosts energy
Increase focus and memory
Helps you sleep good
Reconnects you with nature
and so much more!
With all of the wonderful benefits of Forest Bathing, you should make it one of the most important things that you do each day!
Take a 15 Minute Video Tour of North Beach in Corpus Christi, Texas
Happy Sunday!
While I was pinning on Pinterest a couple of days ago, I clicked on another users North Beach pin, and discovered that my YouTube video was being used as a point of reference on a certain beach website.
Dios mio! I totally thought that I had deleted this account from YouTube!
Well, I almost had a hard time getting back into this particular gmail account because I do not use it anymore-as it was created while experimenting with extending, and adding new services and ideas, to my senior care business.
Thankfully, I finally remembered my old password
I really appreciate the creators of that website, because they helped me gain over 5,000 YouTube views.
Now whether or not 5,000 views on YouTube sounds like a little or a lot to you, (it’s really not anything monetary wise) it is the lesson behind it that has got me thinking-I'm still a lifestyle blogger newbie, and I know that the Universe allowed me to stumble across my video again, for reasons that go way beyond, “just finding an old video post that I thought that I deleted”😬
Book Your Travels With Me At Tiffany Tene' Travels
Read-The Ultimate Guide To North Beach In Corpus Christi, Texas
Looking Back at 2021
2021 for me has been a year of taking action! I am proud of myself with how far I have come in pursuit of my new goals.
For the first time in a long while, what I am thinking and saying is finally in alignment with what I am doing.
What I said I was going to do, I did:
Last year, I announced that I was going to relocate to a place that has a lower cost of living, so that I can travel more and focus on living abroad
✔ In May, I left Houston, Texas and am now residing outside of Little Rock, Arkansas enjoying nature, and spending time with my college-aged children.
(Yes, I have 3 older kids in college-when I tell people this they don’t believes me, but I really am a young looking and acting, petite 70's baby)
I also announced that I was going on my first solo international trip
✔ In October, I departed the US to Dar es Salaam, Tanzania.
I wanted to get serious about my financial investments
✔ Since I left Houston, I have tremendously improved my credit score, and diversified my investment portfolio, which resulted in some personal financial gains for me and my children.
I wanted to start all over and be fully single and independent again
✔ Not only did I leave Houston, but I also left a relationship in which I felt was not in alignment with my true self.
I said that I was going to act quickly, the moment I feel that something is off, and relentlessly pursue, the moment someone says something in regards to a customer service matter that is not right, or does not make sense
✔Since relocating, I have had to do this several times back to back, and as I like to say, “I win!”. I have had to challenge, question, and go above several business rep authorities. In doing so, I have solved many pressing issues and problems. In the process, I taught my kids to always stand up for themselves, no matter who or what it is-I am teaching them how very important it is to question, and investigate.
I said that I was going to be blogging and promoting Africa
✔ I have started writing about and including African fashion on my website. (Much more to come!)
✔I also have said that I was going to start being selfish (in a good way) by placing my wants and needs before others-"Me first!”✔
What I Didn't Do
I said that I was going to have an instructional website guide for navigating through my blogs
👎🏼 I have not taken the time at all to do this
I said that I was going to be adding more inventory on my website and in my Poshmark store
👎🏼I did not do this consistently this year either. BUT, I have been outrageously active on the Poshmark selling platform for a few years. After stepping back and weighing out all of my options for scaling my businesses and side-husles, I will definitely be implementing other E-commerce strategies for 2022.
There are soooo many other personal and private gains that I have achieved within a short amount of time this year!
I am learning to celebrate and focus more on my gains, while focusing less on my losses. Looking back, I have noticed that I allowed my losses to weakenen me, but lately they have been tremendously strengthening me.
I really have been tapping into my gifts and powers in every area of my life-I am constantly evolving and reinventing myself and my businesses.
My Short Message for you Going into 2022
Whatever it is that you want or desire, go for it now. No more excuses. NOW is the time. Don't wait any longer.
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😉
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
Try a New Coffee Blend From Tanzania Uganda and Ethiopia
While in the middle of writing my first post about my recent trip to Dar es Salaam, Tanzania I received some exciting news about a brand new delicious coffee blend that I know you will enjoy!
How does dark chocolate roasted pecan and vanilla sound?😋Well, this is exactly what you will experience when you indulge in a unique blend of Tanzanian Ugandan and Ethiopian coffee.
The Truth About Coffee Nutrition
If you are an avid coffee drinker, you should be drinking THE BEST coffee every day!
Studies have shown that coffee is rich in antioxidants, contains high levels of vitamin B nutrients, helps you lose weight, and may help reduce the risk of Cancer and Alzheimer's.
Celebrate With Us!
For a limited time only, my friends at Ten Thousand Villages, a pioneer of fair trade, have invited us to enjoy their new blend of exotic, certified organic, dark roasted African coffee, to celebrate their 75 year anniversary.
Took a Little Summer Break in June and July
During the months of June and July, I took some time away from my Blog, Poshmark, and Pinterest so that I can get settled in, and explore my new living environment in Arkansas!
4 Things I Love About Maumelle, Arkansas
I have decided to make Arkansas my home base while preparing for International travel! I will be splitting my time between Little Rock, Maumelle, and Conway!
Just Touched Down in Maumelle!
Have you heard of Maumelle, Arkansas? Yeah, I hadn’t either! But everyone that I have met so far in and out of the city, has nothing but great things to say about this hidden gem!
Read:
10 Things I am Doing Right Now to Prepare for International Living
Maumelle
Situated approximately 2 miles from North Little Rock, Arkansas Maumelle is an upper-middle-class suburban city, with a small town metropolitan vibe.
Maumelle has a population of 18,000 and is still considered a young developing city on the rise.
Here are 4 Things I Love About Maumelle, Arkansas
1.
The Hills
I was raised in Northern California, so I love scenic hill and mountain views.
Maumelle is a hilly city, where almost everywhere you go, even while driving on the main road, you can enjoy being in on and around hills.
The place that I am currently staying at is literally on a hill. Leaving home, I love driving down the hill, coming home, I love driving up the hill!
2.
Trees Trails and Woods Galore!
I’m surrounded by a plethora of tall pine trees!
As you know, I am a huge nature lover. I was starting to feel a bit suffocated in Houston. Now I can truly breath in!…breathe out!..
Many times a Park, business, or house will be located right in the middle of a bunch of beautiful tall tress, and you won’t even know it!
It’s always fun to discover something hidden in the middle of the woods on a nature walk.
3.
Living Near a Lake
Living near Lake Valencia is a treat! Everyday, I can walk or jog around the lake, fish, lounge by the water, or just hang out on a bench taking in nature!
The library is also located directly in back of the Lake!
4.
Small City Life
Small city life means friendly respectful businesses, people, and environment, close-knit communities, better customer service, less pollution, no heavy traffic, lower crime rates, and less noise.
Book Your Travels with me at TiffanyTene' Travels
*Updated June 2024