Hvassing.com

The word Dar es Salaam is derived from Swahili, which is in turn a concoction of Arabic and traditional African languages which were all put together in the nationalistic period of Nyerere (Tanzania's ex-President who is called 'Father of the Nation').

It literally means 'Haven of Peace', which in actual fact is pretty much precise as it stands. As with any town in the world, the old and new are merged to create a somewhat unique experience for anyone visiting or wanting to taste something exciting.

Somewhat secluded, Dar es Salaam is situated on the east coast of Tanzania and is home to the Oysterbay and Msasani Penninsula, all of what harbour the irridescent landscapes and unique views for a perfect sundowner or stroll.

As opposed to all the varied charachteristics of this town, the man in the corner casually flipping through his newspaper or taking a sip of his morning tea is representative of the true nature of the Tanzanian people. Life in general is a moving snapshot because of the pace at which everything occurs, the unpredictability of the next day is what seems to get most people through the lack of something different.

Looking back at sixteen years of the same old routine and the frustration at everything unstable in this town, I believe that there is no such place in the world. It may have similar charachteristics or carry the same values, but with a mix of cultures and nationalities, the Msasani Penninsula is where I would definitely make a mark before embarking on a journey elsewhere.