Cultural Ecology of East Africa  
MSUM Summer Tour

May 16 - June 3, 2005

• Is it safe? Regardless of where you go, all travel involves risk. Travel to Kenya and Tanzania is comparatively safe, especially contrasted with other developing countries. Nevertheless, it is not America (or Europe for that matter). You cannot behave exactly as if you are at home because you are not! African rules are different. I have been going to Africa since 1988 and have found common sense and respect to be the best behavioral guidelines. In consultation with your care provider, certain health precautions need to be taken before and during the trip. Also, while there, participants are under close supervision. Neither I nor any of my African colleagues tolerate behavior that unnecessarily endangers any participants. Safety is always our top priority.
  
  

• Isn’t it expensive? First you should know that if your register for credit, you can apply for financial aid. Also, if you’re unfamiliar with international travel then you might think this is expensive. However, a round-trip air ticket from Minneapolis to Nairobi or Kilimanjaro is about $1,800 alone on Expedia.com.  I have worked hard to make the program cost competitive. Other recent short-term study programs in Kenya, such as the one at University of Georgia and the one at Michigan State University, charge similar fees. The University of Georgia's program is $3,100, not including international airfare. Michigan State's program is $3,337, also not inclusive of international airfare.  Much of this program’s price goes to cover our in-country expenses – things such as lodging and meals but also vehicle and driver hire, honoraria for guest lecturers and farm demonstrations, home-stays, etc. All the work has been done. You get the easy part. Enjoy it!
  
  

• Is it only for anthropology majors? No! This tour is open to anyone with an open mind, who is willing to shed their prejudices about Africa and learn what life is really like there. Without being melodramatic, this experience will change your view of life. If you don’t believe me then read some of the past participants’ remarks below.
  
  

• Will I need a lot of extra money? That depends upon you and your spending habits. In 3 years I have heard people complain both about spending too much or not enough money. Food is pretty inexpensive, but souvenirs can be pricey. Still, Kenyans andTanzanians love to "bargain" and that adds greatly to the cultural experience.
  
  

• Will we go "on safari?" Safari is a Swahili word that literally means "trip," so really our whole adventure is one big safari. Most Americans seem to think of Africa as being populated mainly by wild animals. Our main purpose is to meet people and learn how they live. Still, we will be visiting Ngorongoro and Tarangire, some of the best place in Tanzania for wildlife – elephants, lions, rhinos, giraffes, you name it. So, yes, we will be going on safari!

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