Tofo, Mozambique (12-18 of March, 2008)
(it's pronounced like TOFU, so you know it's gotta be good : )
After 1 shallow and 2 deep SCUBA dives here in Tofo, I am officially an Advanced Diver! I have seen MANTA RAY less than 5 meters away from me, with wingspans as big as 15 meters! You've got to look up pictures of these creatures, they are gorgeous and awe-inspiring. I am here with MOZAMBIQUE EXPERIENCE, I bet they have pictures on their website. I've also seen a Spotted Eagle Ray, Moray Eels, tons of beautiful coral, cool fish and sea creatures. The Indian Ocean is beautiful if a bit rough, thanks to the cyclone that won't leave the channel between here and Madagascar. But thankfully we were able to get some dives in yesterday and today, as well as chill in this great small town.
It's basic living here, daily necessities (for me) in no particular order include: tea with milk & sugar, fish or pizza for dinner, a hot shower, a mosquito net over the bed plenty of repellent for the evening, sunscreen, the button on my watch to see what time it is for my Chicago peeps... That's about it! No make-up and definitely no worries. The local markets throughout Mozambique are where you go to get everything from a phone card, bottle of whiskey, basket of fruit, local art/handicrafts or sarong for the beach. Everyone is so nice and lots of people have tabs running all over town... trusting, honest people. I am being looked after by Nunu's friend Roy's friend Jon. Great person, and a hugely experienced and knowlegable Dive Master. There's been a "going away' party almost every night (there's lots of turnover here, with folks heading to the next dive location or home for a spell). I've met loads of fun, memorable people and enjoyed plenty of Manica beers.
After a fast-paced trip through South Africa, I have definitely settled in and am beginning to really enjoy the concept of not HAVING to do anything! Taking an hour walk on the beach, taking a 3 hour nap in the middle of the day, daydreaming and staring at the ocean... it is a welcomed change from the hectic pace I have maintained for as long as I can remember. I am very happy I decided to come to Mozambique.
OK, I am late for my afternoon siesta so I gotta roll... but I'll share stories and eventually some pictures after my next stop - KRUGER NATIONAL PARK in South Africa. From there, I'll head to Dar es Salaam, Tanzania where I'll live and volunteer for a month.
Ciao! ~steph
ALONG THE STREETS OF MOZAMBIQUE....
IT WOULDN'T BE A TRUE "MOZAMBIQUE EXPERIENCE" WITHOUT ROY!
