Gao (MALI )

I traveled to Bamako in December of 2005 and experienced a culture much different from mine but enjoyable. My party traveled from Bamako to Segou, Djenne, Mopti, Sevare, Goundam and then into Timbuktu. The Mosque in Djenne was spectacular. I especially enjoyed crossing the Niger River to get to Timbuktu. I really enjoyed the markets. The people were so friendly and despite my limited Bambara I was able to communicate my needs. I even learned some French. People were selling anything from telephone cards to clothing and food items; some were even selling beverages that had been frozen in baggies. My host had a home in Bamako and once outside these eloquent lodgings I saw an Africa much more independent than what the Western news media presents. Yes there is poverty however the people display a PRIDE that I cannot explain. I will never forget Mali! I will never forget the struggle that the transportation persons( like the ones pictured above) have when manuvering through congested unpaved streets and reparing their broken vehicles. After experiencing the temperatures in Mali I can tolerate the temperatures in the USA. I miss Mali just about everyday! ALMOST EVERY DAY I MISS MALI!

Doris Tapp, 2006-07-10 19:14:22