Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
GIVINGPRESENTS
This is a subject often discussed among experienced travellers who
cannot agree on when, if ever, a present is appropriate. Most feel that giving presents is
appropriate only when it is in exchange for a service.
My repeat visits to Madagascar over the course of 39 years have shaped my own
view: that giving is usually done for self-gratification rather than generosity, and that one
thoughtless act can change a village irreparably. I have seen the shyly inquisitive children
ofsmallcommunitiesturnintotiresomebeggars;Ihaveseenthewarminteractionbetween
visitor and local turn into mutual hostility; I have seen intelligent, ambitious young men
turn into scoundrels. What I haven't sorted out in my mind is how much this matters.
Thievesandscoundrelsmakeagoodlivingandareprobablyhappierthantheywereintheir
earlier state of dire poverty. Should we be imposing our cultural views on the Malagasy? I
don't know.
But giving does not have to be in the form of material gifts. We should never underes-
timate our value as sheer entertainment in an otherwise routine life. We can give a smile,
or a greeting in Malagasy. And we can learn from people who in so many ways are richer
than us.
MORE AND MORE...
Visitors who have spent some time in Madagascar and have be-
friended a particular family often find themselves in the 'more and more and more' trap.
The foreigner begins by expressing appreciation of the friendship and hospitality he or she
received by sending a gift to the family. A request for a more expensive gift follows. And
another one, until the luckless
vazaha
feels that she is seen as a bottomless cornucopia of
goodies. The reaction is a mixture of guilt and resentment.
Understanding the Malagasy viewpoint may help you to come to terms with these re-
quests. You may be considered as part of the extended family, and family members often
help support those who are less well-off. You will almost certainly be thought of as fab-
ulouslywealthy,soitisworthdispellingthismythbygivingsomepricesforfamiliarfood-
stuffs at home - a kilo of rice, for instance, or a mango. Explain that you don't have ser-
vants, that you pay so much for rent, and that you have a family of your own that needs
your help. Don't be afraid to say 'no'.
It is sensible to be cautious about giving your name and address to local people with
whom you have only a passing acquaintance. Women may be surprised - and possibly de-
lighted - to receive a letter declaring undying love, but it's just possible that this comes
with a few strings attached.
...AND THE MOST
I know two couples, one in America and the other in Australia, who
have translated their wish to help the Malagasy into airfares to their home country. This is
not to be undertaken lightly - the red tape from both governments is horrendous - but is
hugely rewarding for all concerned.