Vinegar Hill Magazine: Spring 2024

Celebrating Thirty Years of Bringing Together

Readers and Writers

With 70 events in Charlottesville, and special preview events around the Commonwealth! Highlights include:

Soul In Celebration

Thu., March 21, 12:30—2:00pm

Three poets celebrate Black womanhood, weaving joy and elegy together in their verse. In Makeshift Altar, Amy M. Alvarez urges “Let survivor’s bones grow fat with sweet.” Cynthia Manick declares in No Sweet Without Brine, “I want us living, not just alive.” “I am done telling the kinder story. I am a myth of my own making,” January O’Neill tells us in Glitter Road.

Festival Friday

Fri., March 22, 5—7:30pm

Bookshops and other spots on the Downtown Mall offer readings, poetry, and art workshops. (free)

Paramount Theater All Day Pass

Sat., March 23, 10:30am—8pm

All day, all events: Senator Danica Roem, U.S. Poet Laureate Ada Limón, bestseller Roxane Gay, and Percival Everett on tour with his newest book. (ticketed)

Wordy Thirty Anniversary Party

Sat., March 23, 7—11pm

Celebrate our 30th Anniversary at The Bradbury! Includes food and drinks, V.I.P. author appearances, dancing, and music from D.J. Double U. (ticketed)

about this issue, spring 2024

Dear Readers,

It feels good to be home! I am thrilled to serve as the new EditorIn-Chief for Vinegar Hill Magazine. As a then college Senior at Elizabeth City State University, I remember being home on break and meeting the magazine’s founder Eddie Harris for the first time. At the time, Vinegar Hill Magazine was a two-page newsletter, and I was eager to get a byline. With my rehearsed elevator pitch in tow, I approached him to figure out what I needed to do to be a part of the publication. Soon after I became a contributing writer, and landed my first cover story in 2015. Almost 10 years later with over eighty bylines under my belt across a number of platforms, to be sitting here at the helm of where it all started is truly a full circle moment.

I am so appreciative of my predecessor, Katrina Spencer for her fearless and remarkable work as Editor here At Vinegar Hill. Stepping down from her role in 2023 to pursue her Journalism degree, the indelible mark she has left on this magazine will be remembered in this community for years to come.

While in this position, my only goal is to continue sharing the voice of our community. In my interview with Mayor Wade for his feature piece in this issue, I’m reminded of something he shared with me during our recording. He mentioned in conversation that Charlottesville is a city that “punches above its weight class.” He does not know it, but this quote has stuck with me in my brief time here. I believe the Central Virginia area as a whole punches above its weight class actually. Several counties with over 300,000 residents are home to so many movers, thinkers, and doers, all sharing one common wish: to continue elevating the community in which we thrive. I want to contribute in any way I can to shed light on the individuals shaping this city, and that is precisely what this spring issue entails. In this issue you will find unique narratives from our writers that highlight the richness and beauty of this diverse area that I have no doubt you all as readers will enjoy.

Our Spring issue follows the leadership journey of community icon Kaye Monroe, a look into the genesis of the Men of Distinction series spearheaded by Khalilah Jones, and intimate looks into the lives and careers of Darnell Lamont Walker and Mayor Juandiego Wade.

We at VHM appreciate your readership and your support. You all are the reason we continue to serve as a beacon to the Central Virginia region. We are committed to standing in the fold with you and supporting a community enriched by diverse voices and shared experience.

Sonia Montalvo

Sonia Montalvo Editor-In-Chief

PreParing For Death is an act oF Love

a guiDe to conversations about Death

by DarneLL Lamont WaLker

Preparing For Death Is An Act Of Love: A Guide to Conversations About Death

By Darnell Lamont Walker

Growing up, I spent most of my free time at my grandma Irene Jones’ home, which means I also spent a lot of time around old folks, watching how they argued amicably while they played spades, tonk, and pitty pat, learning nuances of a language I was still mastering, and listening to the words they threw around the room about life, heartache, and what storefronts were where when they were growing up – all shouted over Deniece Williams, Ben E. King, and Otis Redding. As I grew older, fewer card players

showed up to the table and my grandma went to more and more funerals. Death was no stranger and the conversations around it were always about how ill prepared for that big moment the dead and their family were. I remember wondering why none of the people around the card table talked about what they knew was coming. “Wouldn’t it make it easier for them and their family,” I asked myself. In my grandmother’s living room, my early concept of death was shaped. It was a simple, linear narrative. My great-grandparents, grandparents, and eventually my parents would pass away. Then me. An order I thought was set in stone. Only the old

died, I thought. However, life has a way of challenging our assumptions. The loss of a childhood friend shattered the illusion to which I held so tightly, and over the years, the reality of death had become more complex. There is no order. I’ve likely lost more friends than my parents. My grandmother and most of her friends are gone, but some are still here. Being a death worker now, I want to lessen the complexities. I want to find ways to make the conversations those old folks weren’t having around the card table easier – conversations that would have prepared them and their families for their death. It’s beyond time. Open and honest discussions about

death are means to living a fuller, more intentional life. We’re all too familiar with the discomfort and silence that swell and fill our spaces when death joins the conversations. However, addressing the inevitable can be a powerful tool for fostering connection and understanding among family and friends. By opening up about our wishes, fears, and expectations surrounding death, we not only prepare for self, but it can ease the burden on our loved ones when the time comes.

Preparing for one’s own death may seem daunting, but the benefits extend beyond the individual. It’s a gift to those we leave behind, offering clarity during a challenging time and ensuring that our wishes are honored. Moreover, the

process of contemplating our mortality can be transformative, prompting us to reevaluate our priorities and live more authentically. We can’t keep celebrating the home goings if we approach them with so much fear. We have to talk. Until we open up, we will continue making death harder on those we leave behind as well. It can all be so sensitive, so it’s important to approach these conversations with empathy and care. Here are questions you can ask today to those you love.

Personal Reflection

Have you thought about your own end-of-life preferences and wishes? What are your values and beliefs surrounding death and dying? Are there specific cultural or religious practices you would like to observe?

What songs or poems would you like played or sang at the end of your life and at your funeral? If you died tomorrow, did you do most of the things you’ve wanted to do?

Medical Preferences

Do you have an advance directive or living will in place? If not, have you considered creating one? What are your thoughts on life-sustaining treatments, and are there specific medical interventions you would want or not want? Where do you want to die? At home or in the hospital or a special place?

Funeral and Memorial Plans

Do you want to be buried, cremated, turned into much, thrown into the ocean, or what?

Have you considered your

On November 16, 2023, Darnell spoke at the End Well 2023: It’s About Time Symposium. Darnell’s talk was about his work as a Death Doula and a Children’s Television writer and the intersection where these two meet.

funeral or memorial service preferences?

What must be included in your obituary? Is there a specific location you would like your final resting place to be? Are there cultural or religious rituals you would like to be part of your funeral?

Legal and Financial Matters

Do you have a will in place, and if so, is it up to date? Have you discussed your financial affairs with a trusted individual, such as a family member or lawyer?

Are there specific instructions regarding your estate, assets, or debts that you want to ensure are followed? Have you talk to the bank to ensure the money will be easily accessible to the person in charge of your funeral in order to prevent financial hardship for them?

Legacy and Personal Belongings

Is there a message or legacy you would like to leave for your loved ones? Have you thought about what you want to happen to your personal belongings after you pass away? Are there specific sentimental items you would like to pass on to certain individuals? What do you want to happen to your social media accounts?

Emotional and Spiritual Well-Being

Are there unresolved issues or relationships you would like to address before the end of your life? How would you like to be emotionally supported as you approach the end of life? Are there spiritual or religious practices that bring you comfort, and would you like those to be incorporated into your end-of-life care?

These are questions I wish I was able to ask my grandma, but I’m thankful I am now able to ask those I love, young and old, because truly, we don’t know when or how we’re leaving this place. I’ve watched them take in these questions and use them as fuel on their journeys toward happiness. Confronting our mortality isn’t about dwelling on the end; it’s about living with purpose and intention. The knowledge that our time is finite can motivate us to cherish moments, strengthen relationships, and pursue the things that truly matter. By preparing for death, we empower ourselves to shape the narrative of our lives and leave a legacy that aligns with our values.

Especially In African American households and relationships, it’s time to break the silence surrounding death and embrace the conversations that can lead to a more connected and purposeful existence. By asking ourselves and our loved ones the tough questions, we not only prepare for the inevitable but also enrich our lives with meaning and intention. Preparing for death is an act of love a gift we give ourselves and those we hold dear.

bLack men oF Distinction: a Living Legacy in the heart oF our community

by khaLiL ah Jones | FeatureD image by tristan WiLLiams | other Photos by kristen Finn

Step into the world of excellence with the Men of Distinction series—an electrifying collaboration between Chic and Classy Image Consulting and The Bridge Progressive Arts Initiative. It all started with the bat signal illuminating the community, calling forth extraordinary men nominated by their peers as true Men of Distinction. We didn’t stop there.

We sat down with these exceptional individuals, asking them to define what being a man of distinction means to them. The result? A collection of stories that redefine the narrative, challenge norms, and showcase the essence of true distinction.

To bring this vision to life, we joined forces with phenomenal partners, including the lens magic of photographers Brian Dunn, Kristen Finn, and Tristan Williams. The style game was taken to new heights with designs from Fari Fashions by Victoria and SVN (777) brand by Shadee Gillliam. A special shoutout to Vinegar Hill Magazine for contributing two high-quality and elite pieces that added an extra layer of sophistication.

Creative direction, the secret sauce of this endeavor, was masterfully provided by Jay Simple, Executive Director of The Bridge Progressive Arts Initiative (a Man of Distinction himself) and myself, Khalilah Jones, Atmosphere Shifter and Owner of Chic and Classy Image Consulting. Together,

Photo featuring Erik Gaines

this dream team crafted an experience that transcends the ordinary, celebrating the uniqueness of each featured man.

You can check in frequently throughout the month of February for individual features of each man of distinction on The Bridge Progressive Arts Initiative and Chic and Classy Image Consulting social media platforms.

And now, let’s talk about the backdrop. The location for this photo shoot wasn’t just any space—it had to resonate with historical significance in the Black Charlottesville community. Enter the Jefferson African American Heritage Center, a place dripping with heritage. We’re eternally grateful for the opportunity to showcase this landmark, encouraging you to not only visit during Black History Month but throughout the year. This isn’t just a series; it’s a journey into the heart

of distinction. Are you ready? Let’s jump in!

In a world where the echoes of Black voices are too often drowned out, it becomes paramount to amplify the stories of those who stand tall against adversity. As we approach Black History Month, it is not only an opportunity but a responsibility to shine a light on the unsung heroes among us—Black Men of Distinction, who tirelessly contribute to their communities, families, and the broader tapestry of our shared humanity.

These men are not mere figures; they are living legends, sculpting history with their resilience, wisdom, and unyielding commitment to a brighter future. Their stories are etched with the determination to transcend societal constraints, to rise above the limitations that history has unjustly imposed upon them.

Featured photo by Tristian Williams

I have had the privilege of witnessing a diverse group of Black Men of Distinction in our community, each carving a unique path towards progress. These individuals are not defined solely by their successes but by their unwavering dedication to uplift those around them. They are fathers, brothers, mentors, and pillars of strength, fostering a legacy that extends far beyond themselves.

Recognizing Black Men of Distinction is important to me, because I was raised by one, I married one who came along as a two-fer with my father-in-love (a man of distinction by anyone’s standards), and most importantly, I am raising a brilliant Black boy who will become a Black man of distinction.

These words echo the sentiment of countless Black women who witness the strength and brilliance of the men in their lives. The

celebration of Black Men of Distinction is not just a commendation; it is a call to action. It is a call to acknowledge their triumphs, to amplify their voices, and to dismantle the structures that perpetuate inequality.

As we celebrate these men, it’s crucial to recognize the broader challenges they face. From the disproportionate impact of police brutality to the systemic injustice of being paid less for their labor, the resilience of Black Men of Distinction is a testament to their enduring spirit in the face of adversity. They navigate a world that often seems to disregard their invaluable contributions, yet they persist, inspiring us all.

Featuring stylists and designers Jay Simple, Victoria Maxey, Khalilah Jones, and Shadee Gilliam

emPoWerher a sPotLight on LeaDershiP With kaye monroe

BY SONIA MONTALVO | PHOTOS BY LOCS IMAGES

New York native and Charlottesville Change Maker Kaye Monroe believes that running for her life from the Big Apple is what ran her right into her destiny. A vacation visit with her two children in 1982, led to a permanent stay in Charlottesville where life began to transform drastically for the community advocate.

Initially working as a Clinical Nurse’s Aid for UVA, Monroe had dreams of becoming a Nurse. Her career reimagining would come after a stint in Nursing School where she realized that it was not her calling. “I got all the way to clinicals, and could not change a colostomy bag to save my life. I said, “I want to help people, but not like this.”

Changing roles, Kaye went through a

period of academic and professional discovery. She soon became a teacher’s assistant and during her course of study, Kaye was tasked with teaching Career Exploration for Women at Piedmont Virginia Community College (PVCC.) Seeing first-hand how the lives of her students far transcended just academic obligation, she states, “I had women from all walks of life… It was one of the most important parts of my life. It was a priority and a place of passion for me.” Expressing her joy in collaborating with her students, she also acknowledged her role in creating a supportive space for their immediate needs. She shared, “I had women who had other needs like their car broke, I had a woman who didn’t have a stove and she had four kids, she was cooking on an electric burner. I remember Mary Alice Blackwell, she was

a writer for the Daily Progress, I called her one day and said, ‘I see you have this column; I have women who have needs, would you do this for me?’ She wrote stories for me for women who had needs, and people would just give. They would just send checks; it was pretty amazing.”

In 1996, she commenced her role as a Job Readiness Trainer with the Department of Social Services, serving until 2006 under President Clinton’s Pro Rural Act. Concurrently, she engaged in ministry at First Baptist Church, achieving ordination as a Minister in 2002. Despite not often discussing that period, she notes that people struggle to understand that aspect of her identity. She no longer embraces a role of a traditional pastor. Describing her experience as a woman in ministry as challenging and feeling

like a misfit, she emphasizes, “I don’t discount it [my experience], but I’m a Marketplace Minister.” She openly admits that her past role in the church laid the groundwork for her community involvement in Charlottesville, particularly in education and youth work.

All of Kaye Monroe’s work within the first 20 years in Charlottesville laid the groundwork for where she sits today. Kaye has served in several capacities that have continued to push her love of teaching and mentorship. Serving as Vocational Rehab Counselor up until 2022, Monroe currently wears the hats of Co-Chief Executive Officer of the Minority Business Alliance, and the Founder of her passion project turned business, KDM Coaching

and Associates; where she focuses on organizational process, executive coaching, and framework development. Possessing academic accolades from Old Dominion University, PVCC, and other esteemed institutions, along with her prominent role as a Community Leader, Kaye acknowledges that her journey has been marked by significant challenges.

“I didn’t even tell you about scenarios here that should’ve put me in jail when I was simply minding my business.” Her son Courtney was the victim of an unlawful search after taking a run at Charlottesville High School track. After leaving, he was stopped and told he fit the description of someone who broke into a home in the area of the high school. The police followed him home and moved forward with searching their entire home. “At the same time, I’m sitting on an advisory board with the police chief and that is what they did! The person in charge who I will not name called me and said, “If I had known it was your son-” Oh Wait what are you saying to me? What if it was my neighbor’s son?! What is this classification?”

question “How did I get here?” She is now in the portion of her life where she is looking into succession planning for when she is ready to step down. “You have to think about who replaces you before you go, don’t you think you have some responsibility in that? Identifying and onboarding the next leader?” When questioned about her current thoughts on the state of women leadership in Charlottesville, Monroe says “I do not want to think anything. I want to sit and observe, but I see their prowess. I want to listen, and I often wonder if I could convene with them what would it be like?”

All of Kaye Monroe’s work within the first 20 years in Charlottesville laid the groundwork for where she sits today.

Kaye Monroe admits that though she has done so much work, she knows that as a Black woman she walks a fine line where grace is not always shown. “I am extremely aware of how fallible I am. Life is short and it’s fragile and I only have one time to mess up. A white man can do what he wants when he feels like it, and still run for president of the United States. I am a Black woman and I got one time to do something that maybe looks like a foul or for the sake of appearance looks like it could discredit me, and do I get that grace? Probably not, but you have to pick and choose your battles.”

Serving on various advisory boards in the city, including but not limited to her involvement with the former Mayor Nikuyah Walker’s Home to Hope Initiative and her current appointment to UVA President Jim Ryan’s Council on UVACommunity Partnerships, she remains dedicated to fostering positive change and community engagement.

Being the forward-thinking individual that she is, Monroe always ponders the

In Kaye’s forty-one-year span of leadership in the Greater Charlottesville community she defines herself as luminary who is no longer seeking validation sharing that her motto is, “You just be.” Monroe declares, “I am evolving and it’s not like I’m purposely trying to. These things show up in my life. If I were beat up, sick, and tired, I would know it would be time to end, but I am not. I am still doing this!”

P

A C K

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Full-Page Annual Package

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Half-Page Annual Package

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1/4 Page Annual Package

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-Total cost for the year $1,080.00

Just caLL me Juan: mayor JuanDiego WaDe takes the heLm

Interview by Sonia Montalvo | Photos by Eze Amos

After finishing an interview with Vinegar Hill Magazine, A city worker walked up to introduce themselves to the newly elected Mayor, Juandiego Wade. After niceties were exchanged, the employee asked, “What would you like to be called? Mayor Wade? Mayor Juandiego Wade? Or-,” Wade politely interrupted and replied with, “Juan is fine. Just call me Juan.”

With over three decades of Community investment, Juan is no stranger to Charlottesville and its needs. A Richmond native, he moved to Charlottesville for graduate school in the late eighties. A member of the Alpha Phi Alpha fraternity and a graduate of Norfolk State University and

the University of Virginia with degrees in Urban Planning, Wade moved back to the area in 1991 after a brief stint away. He has since dedicated his work to relationship building and community collaboration. Wade’s unwavering devotion to the community has manifested through various roles in the Greater Charlottesville area. With a career spanning almost 33 years in the Albemarle County Planning department, he has also taken on multiple responsibilities, contributing as a member to various boards and committees within the city. These include, among others, the Charlottesville Urban Design Committee, 100 Black Men, A 16 year run on the Charlottesville City School board, and a previous term as

Vice Mayor from 2021 to 2023. “I always had the intention of serving. I had always had all the basic needs that I needed. My father was a schoolteacher, and my mom was a stay-athome mom. We were never rich, but we always had what we needed. So, when I got here, I had a “nice government job” as they say, and my wife was employed so we had what we needed and I then said, “OK I’m going to start giving back,” and so I did that.”

As the newly appointed city leader, Juan expresses the positive aspects of his current role. He states, “It is good to be in this position where, for years and years I have been kind of in the trenches and now I am in this position of leadership that I can have an impact on some

of those policies, programs, and people that I’ve worked with over the last 30 years.”

Q: Can you share your vision for the city’s future and the issues you plan to address in your term?

Juandiego Wade: When I came in as Mayor, I did not say, “This is my platform on A, B, and C,” but I do have a vision and things that I want to get accomplished this year. There are several things that I want to really help the other councilors and the City Manager push forward. One is we’re in the depths of collective bargaining, essentially, having unions in the city and that is a big deal. We are trying to figure out what that is going to look like, how it is going to impact the budget and we are in the middle of that now. I want to continue to look for opportunities to provide affordable housing all the way from zero of the AMI (American Median Income), which is unhoused in the community, to 70 and 80% of the AMI. In

this community, you can have a good paying job [making] forty to sixty thousand a year and there’s no opportunities for you to purchase a home and I want to change that. I want to continue to identify all the areas where we can provide equitable services and programs. Things like the Home to Hope program [as well as working with] the nonprofits in the community. They have the reach and opportunities that maybe we don’t, but we can support them because they are supporting the city.”

Juan’s commitment to community engagement, actively listening to the community to inform his decisions during his mayoral term, is fundamental to his role. This dedication has played a crucial role in shaping him as a community servant. He emphasizes that while his primary objective is to ensure Charlottesville residents feel heard, he acknowledges the possibility of differing views. Juan aims to engage with individuals, offering them insight into the responsiveness of the government and demonstrating that leaders are genuinely attentive to the concerns of the community.

Q: Being the leader of this city does not come without public opinion. How do you plan to deal with the scrutiny that comes along when people do not agree with your future decisions?

Juandiego Wade: “We all kind of want to be loved and accepted. I know that I have made a lot of decisions already that people have not been happy with. So, there are a couple of things. One is that I’m not overly present on social media; I’m fine with it because I’m not connected. I know about it, but I don’t read it. I know that in this position, a lot of people are not going to be happy, and, man, if I base my decisions and things on that, we will get some really bad policy. How I make my big decisions— I mean, really big decisions— is that I listen to the staff, listen to my colleagues, I pray on it, and I can talk it over with my wife; then, I make the decision. I’ve been doing that for 17 or 18

years now, and sometimes it works out perfectly fine; sometimes, it doesn’t. I think because of the process that I go through, most of the time, people understand it, but I haven’t had any big outcry of it because I’m doing it, whether right or wrong, for the right reason, and that’s for the betterment either of the students and now of the city of Charlottesville.”

Outside of being a father, husband, and a political official, Mayor Wade also serves as a mentor to several young people in the community through multiple organizations such as Computers 4 Kids. When asked about what long-standing challenges he would like to address, he believes in the need to address issues faced by young Black men. Despite the existence of commendable programs like Abundant Life Ministries and Boys and Girls Club, he emphasizes the ongoing struggle

“What keeps me going is my wife, Claudette Grant. We got married in June of 1993, so I think, her support of that, but it is also the young people that I see that look up to me, to see me as a role model, that really keeps me going.”

to reach young Black males who may need constructive influence. Wade wants to advocate for the expansion and support of existing programs and the introduction of new initiatives to effectively engage and guide the aforementioned demographic. He stresses the need for continuous financial and emotional investment in these programs to ensure a positive impact on them as future leaders of the community.

Q: What keeps you in the game of politics, and what impact or legacy do you aim to leave behind when you step down from your role as Mayor?

Juandiego Wade:” What keeps me going is my wife, Claudette Grant. We got married in June of 1993, so I think, her support of that, but it is also the young people that I see that look up to me, to see me as a role model, that really keeps me going. I think that the legacy [I want to leave behind] would be that in two years, we would have established how we’re going to deal with

the unhoused in the community right now. It’s kind of a patchwork of a program, and I would like to have that settled. The neighborhoods like Fifeville and 10th & Page, that we have a plan in place for those, that it will help preserve those and have really robust community input. But if someone, somewhere were to say 30 years from now, ‘Do you remember Juandiego Wade when he was the mayor in 2024?’ And they would say, ‘He was a really good mayor. He really listened and he acted on what he listened to.’”

To find out more about Mayor Juandiego Wade, and the Charlottesville City Council, please visit https://www.charlottesville.gov

Meet people. Try a dance or exercise class. Join a band. Enjoy live music or a cup of coffee. Volunteer. You’ll find 100+ things going on every week!

Healthy aging opportunities for all adults age 50 and up.

zanzibar bamboo zanzibar Design hoteL

by Mikela Franklin

Headed to Zanzibar? Looking for a perfect place to stay?

Well, continue reading, b/c as always, I GOT YOU.

Back in August, I had the pleasure of a lovely trip to Zanzibar for my birthday. Zanzibar with its beautiful people, and OUT OF THIS world beaches, is memorable. However, one of my favorite parts of the trip was our stay at Bamboo Boutique.

Family owned, Bamboo is a hidden, not hidden, gem. Tucked on the southernmost part of Zanzibar Island, it’s a bit of a trip but WELL worth it. Our day started with a pickup from the airport. After a two

hour drive of lovely winding, (and very bumpy), roads, schoolchildren peaking in out of local markets, mothers walking the red clay roads with baskets on their heads, and swaddling happy babies on their back, we pulled up to a non-descript location. We passed it initially as the sign is not exactly visible. However, once the door opened, it was like the pearly gates were in front of us!

First, let’s get into the aesthetic and the vibe. The interior design team for Bamboo DID THAT. I have to say I have stayed at several hotels in my life, and hands down this is the top 5 most beautiful place

I’ve ever had the pleasure of being in. When you first walk in you are greeted with a large geometric amphitheater style area which contains the main restaurant on the premises. As you walk up the stairs you are greet to a panoramic view of the Indian ocean. It quite literally will take your breath away.

Another awesome factor about Bamboo Design hotel is its dedication to being ecofriendly. Now when people usually hear eco-friendly, they think immediately of reusable and scarce items. However, you can see that everything down to the shower, water systems,

the usage of solar power throughout the grounds, was carefully curated and left no design behind.

The property contains three main infinity pools, and a dedicated area for a lovely barbeque. The beach is just a staircase away.

ACCOMODATION

Okay the good stuff: THEE villa! MY GAWDDDDD. It was everything I imagined. We stayed in the Ocean View Suite with a private pool. ($400 per night including breakfast.) The villa is HUGE. It’s close to 1000

sq feet. The space is composed of two different sections. The first being the bedroom/ bathroom/dining area which also connects directly to the pool. Perfect for a nice morning dip or a lovely breakfast in bed overlooking the views. The second section is the living room and entertainment area, which also opens into the terrace and yard area. The villa is accented with bamboo furnishings, and local Tanzanian art figures and paintings. One of my favorite aspects of traveling is immersive experiences. For this trip in particular I really wanted to stay

in a more localized place.

FOOD

Let’s get into the food because this was also a highlight. The food was also well priced with the average meal under $20. The food was art, plated beautifully. Frankly there is SO much food that you won’t be able to eat it all. Also, the food was fresh. Zanzibarian tea, masala, and freshly squeezed juices accented every meal. Highlights included the fresh seafood from the grill. Now if you know anything about me, I’m a proper tidewater girl. Chesapeake born and bred.

Seafood is not only my thing, but also a way of life! The seafood was SO fresh and CLEAN. Let me say I’m a huge stickler at properly cleaning shrimp and crabs.

Highly recommended foods to try:

-Prawn popcorn

-Bamboo deluxe

-Spicy chicken bao buns

-Grilled octopus w/ ugali

Now for my fellow libation fans, the drinks are also a highlight. There are many specially made cocktails, and most of them are pretty cheap at

about $3-5 bucks. Try the bellinis and mimosas as they all have specific local ingredients.

ACTIVITIES

Listen this was a baecation okay? The villa had food, a bomb pool and a view directly in front of the ocean. Why would we leave? There is paddling, kayaking, paddling, fishing and of course swimming available.

If you are looking for a hotel that has a list of a dozen activities on the premises, Bamboo is not that. This is actually their strength because the hotel is created for you to NEVER want to leave. We had the best intentions on some scheduled offsite activities, but after the first day there we made a quick change and decided to stay on site. We did however partake in some spa time at the Bamboo Elements spa. We chose a few different treatments, stone massage, head massage. The focus at the spa is very ayurvedic based, so before we were taken into the spa, we were treated with a lovely foot bath and sound bath. This was nice as we kind of rushed to the appointment, so our adrenaline was a bit high. The bath immediately relaxed us. Then we brought into the room for our 90-minute massages.

CUSTOMER SERVICE

Customer service deserves a huge shout out. Every guest has their own personalized butler as well as suite WhatsApp group chat, where the team directly speaks to your room and is on hand 24/7 for all of your needs. The team is composed of many local citizens hailing from Tanzania and

Kenya. My suggestion is to take time to get to know the hotel team. The vibe is so relaxed, so you easily get into quite lovely chats. For my actual birthday, I had treats and cakes delivered all day. The cake was a chocolate and vanilla slice of HEAVEN.

So, when it comes to Zanzibar, northeast cousins Nungwi and Kendwa get a lot of the fanfare, and we did stay there for the second half of our trip. However, I would highly recommend Jambiani and Paje beach areas, which are located in the southeastern part of the island. The vibe is relaxed and laid back. Nungwi is where the party is, but there were some local clubs, as well in Jambiani. For example, we checked out a fun reggae club, called Red Room, which had the beach as the main dance floor. The club was open most of the night and was maybe a 5 min drive from Bamboo.

Overall a lovely, lovely stay and I can’t wait to go back!