Rules for Strangers

by Marissa Bell Toffoli

                 Luanda, Angola

Learn the language – much less grief.

Kiss, kiss; hello, goodbye; one for each cheek.

Some markets are not safe for you to shop.

Don’t walk alone in the street.

Don’t run along the beach out of sight of people.

Try the food.

Become as invisible as possible in the crowd.

Your diamonds and gold beacon irresistibly,

Don’t take photos of people holding guns,

better yet, don’t even look a soldier’s way.

You will see things you wish you’d never seen.

No pictures of the street vendors either; ask or buy goods.

Know the going exchange rate for dollars.

Bargain for everything.

Get used to unfamiliar odors, sweet, rank, or mildly salty, like sweat.

Hire on whatever help you can afford.

Drink bottled water. Check the seal on the cap.

You’ll lose your appetite if you name the chicken carried home clucking.

Let the locals lead you to the dance floor.

Comfort comes when you learn the rhythm of the city.

You’ll discover faded beauty you alone are unable to restore.

Street urchins will heckle.

One day’s gift becomes expected ever after.

Know your limits.

Seek beyond what you can see.

Don’t feed wild animals.

If the wild dogs catch you, they’ll tear right in,

devour all evidence.

Comments

[Lion keylogger]

This is my first time i visit here. I found interesting things to many in your blog, mostly to the debate.

[Louboutin Flat Women]

The book says: Many animals breed in the spring.
Many animals can harm me, but I do not harm them.

[true religion outlet]

It really does feel like some kind of alternate universe where you get to play with the Beatles or whatever other band you have in mind. You can still hear the drums, vocals and bass pretty clearly and although I don't really show it in the video, it's a cool feeling.

[chaussures nike shox nz]

Salamat para sa impormasyon sa blog na ito. Ang publikasyon ng lugar na ito ay napaka-cool na at mga kagiliw-giliw. Ako ay may na basahin ang buong post at ko masyadong maraming mga bagay na hindi ko alam, alam bago. Ako siguraduhin na ang mga bisita na bisitahin din ang lugar na ito masiyahan sa pagbabasa ng mga post. Naghihintay para sa mga bagong post mula sa iyo na-publish sa site na ito. Muli mayroon kang ang iyong kahusayan at kahusayan sa blog na ito work.Keep pinatunayan ito.