The Real Kampala

What a great and relaxing long weekend! Unlike all of you in the states, we were off work today "Martyrs Day." Jealous?

Saturday was awesome. My roommate and myself were able to go into the city and test out a Lebanese restaurant Pardis and a couple different malls around Kampala. We went in with a USAID worker who lives in the same neighborhood.

This was all awesome, but it didn't me too long to realize that what we were seeing wasn't the "Real Kampala" so today, in a pursuit to finally get internet in our house, we ventured into the city by taxi and were finally able to see how the city beyond our western bubble.

It is was amazing and overwhelming at the same time. The best comparison I found was to throw the atmospheres of china town, a flea market, and a farmers market, all in one spot and intensify it by about 10. There was so many people and, through it was slightly overwhelming at first, it is the only way to get to know a place. I wish I could take everyone reading this to see what I did today...it was one of the most cultural experiences of my life.

I intend to spend more time like today venturing into the markets, often being the only "muzungu" in sight. I am very thankful for my roommate because without her I would have had no clue what to do, but overall it was a great success. Next time I hope to take some pictures and post them for others to see.

A place is what you make it and the good is what you choose to see. I see the good as hard working Uganda's trying to make a buck selling whatever they can grow or make in the local market. Yes, having supermarkets is nice at first, but that isn't the only way..and we have no right to say it is the best way. Wherever you go, whatever you do, mingle with the locals. Don't be restricted to a western tourist bubble, you can find them anywhere. I believe the only true way to experience a country is through devoted cultural immersion in any capacity possible. Talk with them. Eat with them. Learn from them. Become where you are.