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Published: August 25th 2009
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Monday, April 6, 2009 -
After a quick breakfast and checking out of the Serena, we loaded our luggage and drove to the airfield. It gave us one last opportunity to see some of the wildlife again. Our plane was ready for us to board, and we took our seats. Since I had been on the left side of the aisle on the first flight, I decided to sit on the right this time.
We prepared for takeoff but had a short delay. Bird strikes are a major concern at large airports like those in New York City. Our problem was a bit different. We had to wait for three warthogs to cross the runway and were also vigilant of the antelopes who might make a mad dash across the strip.
Finally airborne, we were on our way back to Arusha. Once again, we were treated to views such as mountains, bomas and a dry river bed. As we neared the city, we saw people on a field. I'm still puzzled about what they were doing. Were they students playing a game?
We landed and went to see someone connected with the tourist industry. It was our
only disappointing meeting throughout the trip, because the man was rude and condescending. We were proud when Caroline called him on it and said, “This meeting is over.” Good for her!
We drove to our Arusha “home,” the African Orchid. The desk clerk said that since I seemed to have a hard time climbing the stairs during the last visit, they had a nice room for me on the main floor. Obviously the view wasn't as good, but it was perfect for me, since at this point I needed rest more than I needed extra features. And besides, it still had my favorite shower.
We had lunch, then sat outside with Mary P. Lwoga, Cultural Tourism Coordinator, Tanzania Tourist Board. She told us of a development that is gaining popularity. Rather than having tourists see only the popular sights in groups, they may now experience the life of people in villages. Stays are of various lengths—from one half day to several days. Choices of locales are also varied and include mountains, beaches, the Serengeti and farms among others. The people-to-people concept—one which I fully endorse as President of Sister Cities of Houston—allows visitors to combine scenery, ceremonies, art
and history while participating as a guest among the inhabitants. They return home with a better understanding of the rich culture and life of Tanzanians.
After Mary left, we sat with Sanjay Pandit, the owner/operator of the African Tulip. He's a very bright young guy and astute businessman who also attended USC, as did Chief Secretary Luhanjo. They can start an alumni club in Tanzania for the school where Bill teaches, if one doesn't already exist. Sanjay gave us the viewpoint of a hotelier. His story was compelling—difficulties after global terror attacks and how he gradually brought tourists back to his hotel. His staff emphasizes service and special care for each guest. His philosophy is: If value can be justified to customers, they will be customers for life.
Sanjay's wife Susan came over a bit later, and we had a nice chat. She has responsibilities for Roy Safaris Ltd., their other business, whose slogan is “We go through every measure to give you a wild pleasure!” She also chose the decor of the hotel and finds wonderful items for the gift shop. She was pregnant with their second child.
Caroline wanted me to change my plane reservation
to April 9th, so that I could meet the women she mentioned. Sanjay loaned me his phone, and I called the discount company where I purchased my ticket on line. Trying to reach a person who could give me an answer was a frustrating experience. I wanted to know if it could be done and, if so, at what price.
That took about an hour of being on hold, being transferred several times and being on hold again and again. The final answer was that I could change it for a fee, plus the difference in the price of the ticket. All tolled, it would be more than $1100! The decision to keep my original date was obvious.
Although some of us had planned to go into town for last minute shopping, but there wasn't enough time, and we were tired. After eating dinner in the restaurant with some of our team members, I returned to my room and called Howard. In just a few days I'd be back home.
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