Located in Western Africa, Senegal is a place that most people would be hard-pressed to locate on a map. Thus, many people wonder why I chose to go to Senegal instead of somewhere such as Kenya where one can see lions or tigers. In response, I say that my purpose was a bit different. It seems to me that people would rather visit Africa just for animals....nevermind the people or cultures. It's as if people are oblivious to the existence of the latter.
I became interested in Senegal since my 8th grade French class. I was impressed by the manner in which the text mentioned Dakar (the capital of Senegal); namely, as a modern city and not as some wild jungle as everywhere in Africa is usually depicted. Thereafter, I did reports on the country's political economy and learned about its music by listening to artists such as Ismaël Lo and Youssou N'Dour. Furthermore, my interest in African affairs increased in college since I had the opportunity to take classes with some gifted scholars who specialized in African issues. Therefore, after all the reading and studying, I decided to go to the place.
Additionally, as a person of African descent, it was important for me to visit the continent of my ancestors. I was thrilled at the prospect of visiting the House of Slaves on Gorée island. That said, my trip was more of a cultural or roots thing.
The links below delineate my experience in Senegal.
Gorée island
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