Sunday, Oct 30. An easy day. First day of base tour. Briefing was delayed a little because one couple had set the wrong time.

The day was to hit some spotlights of Arusha life. First we visited a small factory that produces ceramic water filters, shaped like flower vases. Low tech solution to the problem of unclean water. Very innovative and simple process. The demonstration of turning very dirty water into clean water was impressive. Company is well named: ”Wine To Water”. The group collectively bought 15 filters ($750), which we’ll give away tomorrow somewhere along the way to our next stop.

Lunch included a variety of options, with the chef describing the recipes. Two main additives were curry and coconut, both on my “do not eat” list. But I found several choices that were very good. Serengeti beer.

Next was a visit to an Albino center. Albinos have a very rough time in Africa, both because they are viewed as evil, while their body parts are popular among witches. Sad and informative. They all had a positive attitude.

Returned to the hotel, where I spent some time in the pool. Cold and wonderful. Then I and two others join Emanuel, our Trip Leader, on a walkabout. Very poor neighborhood. We spent time with several people, having their life explained. Emanuel gave each one some money in thanks. I took some photos and blew up some balloons. Brought some smiles.

Hot water in my shower stopped working. Maintenance fixed it.