Can't speak for Cambodia/Ethiopia but I'm a big fan of Tanzania having lived there 94-95 and traveled there last year (Wife is currently in Moshi TZ on assignment).

First off, you don't say where you're from and what you're familiar with. If you're comfortable living/working in big developing world cities, Dar should be no problem for you.

Tanzania's economy is growing, and the country is finally shaking off the lethargy from the Nyerere neo-communist days. After being away for 11 years I was shocked by how much things had changed when I was last there. Cell phones are ubiquitous. I saw old men walking along the road between Arusha and Moshi thumbing out text messages. Shops are bustling, and well stocked.

But poverty is still grinding. I still saw incidents of, "Tanzanitis" - beggars standing around intersections with bored expressions and their palms held out waiting for a handout. However there is a lot of grassroots economic activity that simply wasn't there when I lived there in '94-95.

As for the kids, there are numerous private schools in the area - so those shouldn't be a problem. I took my 10 year old there with me last year, and he loved it. Granted it was a Touristy type trip, but even after a few days he was getting the hang of Swahili and was more gregarious than I expected.

Again, I must stress that without knowing your comfort level it's hard to say how well you will like Tanzania. For someone who hasn't been to a developing country, it's always a shock at first. However once you get over it, you'll find that Tanzania is one of the world's up and coming destinations for travelers and expats.

It's safe - esp. compared to Kenya. It's peaceful, and the people are fascinating. Plus there is always somethign to do and see while you are there.

Yep, I'm a big fan. If you need more info, feel free to email me (scott@therazor.org).

Safari njema!

Post a Reply

00abuse

Choosing an expat health insurance provider is an important decision. Get a quote from our trusted expat health insurance partner, CIGNA. With Cigna Global Health Options, you can create an international health insurance plan that's perfectly tailored for the needs of you and your family.

Learn More Get a Quote

Hi,

Just wanted to let you know that my vote would be for Tanzania. My family and I are moving to Arusha in Jan. from the U.S. My kids are 2 and 9 months. We have been there twice before and love it. I would just caution you about Dar. We haven't been there but we have heard that it is getting pretty bad regarding thieves ripping jewelry off of people and things like that. Any other questions you can write me at Tanzania2007@msn.com

Post a Reply

00abuse

Hi

I am looking at investing in Tanzania and would like to know whether you can recomend any real estate agents or websites which may be helpful?

regards
Laszlo

Post a Reply

00abuse