The masses have been asking for another installment about life in Zanzibar. I’m doing audience response this time:
Do you have a washing machine? If not, do you outsource?
I have a washing machine and dishwasher: her name is Amina. She comes three times a week for the grand sum of $8 (and I pay her well). She does housekeeping, laundry, dishes and prep cooking. Laundry finds its way from the basket back to the bureau, clean and pressed without any trouble on my part. She’s not a very good cook so I pick up where she leaves off after the washing and chopping stage. Everything goes into the fridge in little plastic boxes so when I’m ready to cook, ‘voila!’
What do you think you’ll miss most about Zanzibar? Why?
Amina. See above.
Living by the sea also ranks high. Even on days when I don’t go to the ocean, the color in the sky above reminds me it’s nearby. Kicking off my shoes and sticking my feet in the sand for ‘happy hour’ melts away whatever has walked through the study site that day.
I also love how much time I spend outside here. My house has two verandas and two sets of French doors and 12 windows in the front room. It’s always open to sunlight and fresh air. Even my office has six windows. I walk fifteen minutes to work with sea views along the way. It’s a great way to live.
What is the most exotic culinary adventure you’ve had there?
Ever been to a Swahili restaurant? Think meat with rice, coconut oil and salt as side dishes. Rather disappointing as there is so much potential in ‘Spice’ and ‘Island.’ Lack of imagination in local cuisine aside, the most exotic spot for dining is Forodhani Gardens (or ‘Foro’ as the locals say)—a night market by the sea where fishermen sell grilled seafood. My favorite is fish kebabs—skewers of tuna, barracuda, white snapper, marlin, etc. alternating with carrots and grilled on a charcoal B-B-Q. The crunchy sweet of the carrot along with flaky, soft fresh fish served hot and sprinkled with lime is divine.
