Staying Connected

Two days ago I realized that I could not remember the last time I was greeted at the airport. I mean the real deal, a friendly face with gift (in this case a kikoi) in hand right there when you get off the plane. It was a wonderful welcome to my first visit to nairobi.. thanks Robin and Suraj.

So far nnairobi has been filled with this incredible familiarity and striking newness. The sounds, smells, and faces all remind me of my many journeys throughout Africa and Asia. But the newness is compelling and I think it is me. I love how traveling to a new place asks to not only to examine the place but also to reexamine yourself.

What I have discovered so far:
1. It is nearly impossible for me to disconnect. I remember saying goodbye to my friends the last night thinking I would be "off the grid". Well turns out the longest i can stay away from a computer or phone is about 12 hours 30 minutes. (My flight from Nairobi to Dubai).
2. I was born with a lottery ticket, not sure why.
3. Kenya is totally different from Senegal. Clearly this is obvious to others who have visited both places but what is striking to me is that Kenya reminds me more of India than Senegal.
4. Running is the best way to explore a new place
5. My sister rocks.
6. So far, I like the iphone better than the blackberry. I have an iphone in NY and am now using a blackberry, I miss my iphone.
7. The US should begin doing more prepaid cards for mobile phones. The prepaid card was invented in Africa we need to start learning more from the innovations on this continent.

Key Takeaway from the first two days in Kenya: I really like being picked up from the airport.