After my very intense 2 day orientation in DC, where we went over flight logistics and other Peace Corps relevant info, I have finally arrived in Senegal. The town I am in is Thies (pronounced Ches), which is about an 1 1/2 hours from Dakar, so there is no ocean breeze. It was very hot this afternoon, and my morning nap was not refreshing.
I was interviewed all afternoon so the staff can help decide on a permanent placement for me. I hope to be doing either urban agriculture or nutrition/food work, and it sounds like thats where I will end up! The lush tropics in the south and east of the country are much better livability wise because of the climate...where the north is very dry and sandy.
We are all placed in rooms of 3 with little beds with mosquito nets, and have several communal areas with shade. The food was spicy and delicious, but the beef looked a little funky so I stayed away from it for now. So far it is everything I expected, but I am anxious to be placed in my home stay next week.
* SIDE NOTE: The trainers at our center have decided to turn off the internet access beginning tomorrow, since apparently it has been abused by other volunteers in the past. I don't really support this idea, because I think it is important for us to have a transition period. I will be checking emails every couple days.
