Rediscovering Moshi: A Journey Through Familiar Places

Yesterday, I found myself wandering the streets of Moshi, a town that had left a lasting impression on me during my visit December of the 2022. Nostalgia tugged at me as I revisited some familiar spots, eager to see how things had changed—or remained the same.

My first stop was the Union Cafe, where I had once relied on their WiFi for a quick connection and a caffeine fix. However, things had shifted since my last visit. Upon inquiry, the friendly lady informed me that they had discontinued their WiFi service two months ago. It was a reminder that even in a town as seemingly timeless as Moshi, things evolve swiftly.

Undeterred, I ventured towards a phone shop in search of a SIM card. After a bit of walking, I finally located what I was looking for. The shop offered me two options: one with a traditional SIM card for 55,000 shillings, and another with an eSIM for 56,000 shillings. With these prices in mind, I resolved to sort out my connectivity needs before my roaming data from Kenya expires.

Energized by this practical accomplishment, I decided to revisit another cafe where I had spent many cozy hours last year. To my relief, it was still thriving—open 24/7, with reliable WiFi intact. The only noticeable change was coffee prices are a bit higher than in the Union Cafe, but that didn’t deter me from indulging in a comforting cappuccino.

Armed with my coffee, my Laptop and a sense of anticipation, I settled into a quiet corner to reflect and jot down my experiences. Yet, despite the familiar surroundings, my muse seemed elusive that afternoon. With my cup drained and inspiration waning, I made the decision to retreat to my hostel to finish my thoughts and share them online.

Packing up and settling my bill, I bid farewell to the cafe and decided to take a leisurely stroll uphill to the supermarket. The walk stirred memories of days past in Moshi—both comforting and bittersweet, as I noticed how much had changed since my last visit. The supermarket, once a reliable source of familiar products, now seemed transformed. Nevertheless, the warmth of the staff and their helpfulness made my shopping experience pleasant.

With my purchases in hand, I retraced my steps back to the hostel, passing by an ATM along the way. Once back at the hostel, I ascended to its serene rooftop, where I resumed documenting my journey and sharing it with friends and followers online.

After publishing my post, I embraced the evening, engaging in lively conversations with fellow travelers and locals alike. Moshi, with its blend of nostalgia and evolution, had once again left an imprint on my journey—a testament to the ever-changing nature of travel and the enduring charm of this Tanzanian town.

As I reflected on the day’s adventures, I couldn’t help but look forward to what tomorrow might bring in this dynamic corner of East Africa.