Senegal nekhna! Senegal is good

Senegal is a colourful and vibrant country found in West Africa. It is surrounded by Senegal is Mauritania, Mali , Guinea and Guinea-Bissau. This peaceful country surrounds Gambia. From the listed countries, you will be aware that you will be in a peaceful part of Africa.

Straight flight from South Africa on SAA lands you in the newly constructed Blaise Diagne international airport. The airport is located around 50km from the capital city called Dakar. South Africans do not require a visa to visit Senegal. The visa is issued to visitors on arrival at the airport. Be prepared, the official language is French.

Walking out of the airport you get exposed to the hot & humid temperature of the country. You start thinking if you had packed light clothes. The hotel shuttle picks you up serenading with their popular international Senegalese musicians; the likes of Youssou N'Dour, Ismael Lô, and Baaba Maal. “Let the spring break begin!”

As we approach Dakar, its capital city; the roads choke ablock with traffic, decorated public transport, colourful fabrics, busy markets, lot of people going up and down the dusty streets, horse-drawn carts, open stoves selling street food. The first three days we stay at a hotel that is located within close proximity of the Dakar Grand Mosque, the African Renaissance Statue and where we could enjoy easy access to all 
that the lively city had to offer.

This beautiful city has some of the landmarks that are a must-see. One will not miss the African Renaissance Monument. Despite its controversies, it is the tallest and biggest statue in Africa, with a heart-warming history behind it. You get to climb 198 steps to reach the statue. It is said that during it unveiling, President Wade of Senegal said "It brings to life our common destiny. Africa has arrived in the 21st century standing tall and more ready than ever to take its destiny into its hands"; while the Malawian President Bingu said "This monument does not belong to Senegal. It belongs to the African people wherever we are". We end the city tour, with a drink and sundowners at the Radisson blu hotel, where the sunset is a sight-for-sore eyes.

The next two days are followed by a visit to Goree Island and the Pink Lake. In Goree Island, we learn about the slave trade. We listen to the stories, we learn about the sand art (ancient art) & we met the artisans. We also support the resilient local women who are selling at the market. This is a beautiful island with a sad history. Pink lake on the other side, is a natural lake, God-given salt. Any person can mine salt for business. It is a natural occurring phenomenon. You can only say wow! We took a boat in the pink lake and bought some salts for bathing, cooking etc.

The next three days we drive to the coast to Saly Portudal. Being on the beach side in this hot weather is a breath of fresh air. This small town has its own vibe, it is calming and relaxing. Unlike the big city there is less traffic and less hooting. We relax by the beach for two days while we eat and drink as much as we can, we take long slow walks into town enjoying local bar and pubs. 

Senegal is a pleasure! Whats not to love.