In true African style, I joined in with some locals for a pick-up soccer game last night. Fantastic. After a difficult collegiate career I was thoroughly fed up with the sport, only to rediscover the thrill of scoring a goal and pulling off a commendable move. Naturally there are low expectations for my abilities (being a girl), but what a confidence boost! I hope this will become a weekly tradition for our group of soccer enthusiasts. Classes, on the other hand, were not such an adrenaline pumping endeavour. Here in Botswana, the first week is apparently “optional”. For professors and students alike. Very strange. Hopefully the end of the week will bring more certainty in terms of my course schedule and class expectations. I am definitely struggling with the flexible concept of time that is customary here. Meeting at 3:00 really means 3:15ish. A 7:00am opening time for the cafeteria is only to suggest that the doors are unlocked at seven...breakfast food will make an appearance after 8:00 if you're lucky. But who am I to be cynical. Bob Marley's “Don't worry, be happy” is the perfect soundtrack for the pace of life in Botswana. Time to stop and smell the flowers.
Living tip: There are laundry facilities a short jaunt from the Las Vegas dorms (appropriate name for an international student residence eh?), equipped with both washers and dryers. However, you will need to visit the souvenir shop on campus and exchange Pula for “tokettes” in order to activate the machines. Line drying is also available, and the fastest option if the weather agrees. Probably not wise to leave your clothes unattended though, as they're likely to go for a walk if you turn your back.
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