By Sahra, Slim (Maddox), and Sam,
After landing in Dakar and having our first encounter with the language barrier at customs, we were greeted by a breeze and the bright tropical sun as the i-Team introduced themselves. We piled in the van to embark on a two hour journey, passing Baobab trees, many towns, a prolific goat market (including a vehicle comically packed with them clown-car-style), a school, and many locals going about their day. In typical Senegalese fashion, many were spotted beating the heat in patches of shade.
As we drove, the inland milieu opened up to reveal the idyllic coast of West Africa; we turned off the main road, only to be met by a painted sign marked “L’Eden”. We unloaded the van, finding ourselves in a podunk slice of paradise overlooking the ocean. Between orientation sessions, our group could be found sprawled between the beach, circular bungalows, and the local boutiques just a short walk down the road.
We have been enjoying all facet of Teranga (Senegal’s famous hospitality) since our arrival. From learning how to eat in community, grouped around bowls of signature dishes like ceepbujën (a rice and fish meal pronounced cheh-boo-jen) and other culinary staples, to observing the etiquette and lengthy process of making atayya (a delicious and highly caffeinated tea enjoyed in small amounts), exploring Senegalese culture has been already proved enlightening and surprisingly approachable. Even with minimal experience in the fundamentals of Wolof, it has been such a joy to interact with locals both at L’Eden and its surroundings. We’ve played soccer with kids on the beach, made friends with the regulars and staff here at L’Eden, and generally familiarized ourselves with the locale. Reflecting back and looking toward the start of our homestay, this adventure has been a leap of faith, but, as I see it, everyone has handled the adjustment with grace and an open mind.
Ba ci kanam! (Until next time!)
—Slim (Maddox), Sahara and Sam
Sahra and two of her group mates