I lived in Dar es Salaam, literally meaning 'haven of peace'. As in any good description of something, one would describe using all five senses. Maybe a sixth too, your feelings perhaps. The air is moist and salty, because of it's location on the coast of the Indian Ocean. One can smell the dust, sweat and fresh air at the same time. To some it would seem disgusting, to others it's natural and refreshing. The trees and grass are lush, not fake and shiny as though waxed, but green like a faded painting that always calms one down when stressed. The very picture or view you first see looks as though it is faded, but not old. I would not advise you to go back home without washing your hands because they would definitely be dirty and dusty. Dar es Salaam was dusty, though I hear it isn't anymore. If someone is looking for a place to retire, I would recommend Dar. It has long grasses, and I could always get lost and found at the same time. It's like being lost in home, or found in a strange city. It's definitely a place where you can share simultaneous feelings of being lost and found. Though it might not be hygienic, vendors on the streets sell ubuyu, seeds from the bayobab tree coated with sugar, red and green dyes, and sometimes a spice I'm not so sure I can identify. Powdered red chili, salt and lime on half-ripe mangoes, ubunges (I don't know what they are in English). The sea is loud and tantalizing, the people are beautiful inside and out, their sense of humour takes all shapes and sizes, and is brought out in their language, speech, music, dance and writing of all forms, poetry, proverbs and books. They always look to the bright side of life, they are laid-back but not lazy. They are passionate about the nice things in life, and enjoy life to the fullest. I might not have described using all senses, but I know that even if I had, I'd never do Dar justice. It's tropical, hot, calm, wild and beautiful. Those qualities definitely befit a city in Tanzania in Africa.

Anonymous -- Boston, MA