Customer Reviews

Tanzania - Culture Smart!: the essential guide to customs & culture

5 star:		(3)
4 star:		(0)
3 star:		(1)
2 star:		(0)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

This small book is a wealth of information for someone who wants to learn everything from about how to conduct themselves in Tanzania to the health, religions,and concerns of the Tanzanian people. It is a must for anyone traveling there, either for business or recreation. It can be tucked into a purse or large pocket(6x4)for easy reference. The book is exactly what it says on the cover - Tanzania the essential guide to customs and culture. A Must!

Great intro to Tanzania's culture. Not only does the author give you great insights and examples of Tanzania's culture, but also connects it to specific examples in history. I wish I had read this book before going to Tanzania as I probably would have changed my travel plans. After reading more about the culture I would love to have visited a few other places besides Kilimanjaro and the safari parks. Short, easy read you can easily finish on a long flight.

I have found that entire sections of this book match passages from the website of Canada's Centre for Intercultural Learning (www.intercultures.ca). I do not know which side committed the crime but I read in the review for Culture Smart - India that there were passages taken verbatim from another book. That is two strikes against the CultureSmart series. The book is well-organized and easy to read so I gave it three stars since it is easier than reading 100 different websites and books, however they should have at least changed the wording!! This is something I would expect out of a lazy college freshman.

I purchased this book aobut a month before my recent trip to Tanzania. The information in this book is helpful in understanding the people and their culture. The locals appreciated that we had some knowledge of the customs and history. One of the useful facts in this book, is that Tanzanians find it insulting if you hand them items with your left hand. The respectful way, is with your right hand. This was particularly useful to my husband - a lefty. He was very cognisant of using his right hand to pay, gesture, etc. It also provides a good insight into the politcal history of the region, which you will find useful when traversing the region. I highly recommend this book to anyone traveling to Tanzania or anyone interested in learning more about the country. It is a quick and easy read.