As I flew across the Atlantic from Washington, DC to Dakar, Senegal, I jotted down my thoughts on what might be awaiting me over the next three years:
- In many ways, I’m struggling to know what to expect. Dakar has been called the “Paris of West Africa,” yet many argue that title is overblown. Senegal is very much a developing country. Therefore keeping expectations low and being pleasantly surprised seems like the best approach.
- I may have to guard against comparing Senegal to my first Foreign Service experience in Kenya in East Africa.
- For the first time in my foreign service career, I will be able to enjoy local peanut butter.
- Even though I’ll be living in Africa, I’ll be breaking out pants and light sweaters during Senegal’s winter season.
- Eventually, I will feel confident in saying I’m fluent in French.
- Taking full advantage of tailors, I will acquire a dozen new outfits in fabulous African patterns.
- I will confront America’s role in the slave trade from an entirely new perspective.
- I expect to witness a tolerant form of Islam, with unique Senegalese influence.
- Hopefully, I will add some new activity to my wheelhouse. Maybe surfing or sand volleyball, due to Dakar’s coastal location?
One thing's for sure: I'm excited to move overseas and chronicle my adventures in this blog!
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| Dakar's Monument de la Renaissance |
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