Friends

At this point, I think I can say that I have travelled quite a bit - sometimes with friends, but often independantly. Both have their pro's and con's - travelling independantly means that you see and do what you want; you have to immerse yourself in culture and make new friends. Still, it can be exhausting and lonely. Travelling with friends can be great - you get to share a common experience with people you already know and love, but it can also be tiring and lead to frustration and tension, as the burden of spending 24 hours with someone takes its toll.

I think I have the best of both worlds here in Zambia. In my apartment I have my own space, my own life. I am here in Lusaka for long enough to join activities and make new friends. And yet, I am lucky enough to get to share that with friends from home - people I already know and who's company makes me smile, laugh, relax and feel at home.


thanks to Elena for the photo credit on this one!


Over the course of the past week, my friends Elena in Kate arrived from various other parts of Africa where they have been working/doing research since the end of spring semester. It has been wonderful to continue to explore Lusaka with both of them. I am sad they will only be here with me for the next 5 weeks or so, but excited to have that time! Within the next few days, 5 more BU students will be arriving to begin work for BU's Center for International Health and Development Zambia. Although they will not all be working in Lusaka, I am excited for the chance to visit friends from time to time. Safe travels, and see you soon!