DAKAR

When we landed in Dakar at 5am, we took a bus to Thies. Only 20 miles and 2.5 hours later, we finally made it to the Peace Corps compound. The staff greeted us with music, dance and smiles. The 42 of us settled into our assigned rooms. At the training center we had many meetings dealing with medicql, culture, food, etc... We also participated in a cultural fair. Here they set up different areas around the compound so we could learn aspects of Senegalese culture. The first stage was dress and romance. they taught us about the different fabrics offered in Senegal, the prices of the fabrics, and the different styles in which we could have the fabrics tailored. They also showed us how couples expereince romantic evenings in Senegal, because its very important in their culture. They must think Americans like to do it like bunnies.

 

They also showed us the local religion, Islam. They taught us the logistics of the religion and what to expect from all Muslims here in Senegal. The third section of the culture fair was useful items founf in Senegal and not in the US. This was my favorite class. They showed us the foods we are not use to, how to make juices from different trees and their fruits, and other items not found in America. The last class in which we participated was in food etiquette and tea drinking. In Senegal, families eat in a community bowl. There is usually rice, vegetables, and sometimes meat. Everyone sits around the bowl and you use your "right hand" to eat the food in your section of the bowl. They dont use their left hand for eating or shaking because your left hand is for cleaning your ass.

 

We also learned how to take tea. Tea time is a long process so its a good time to socialize. there is three rounds of tea. each round has one shot of tea and every round gets sweeter and stronger. The tea is VERY SWEET and VERY HOT. Though I really like it. Its my favorite past time here in Senegal.