Traveled to Senegal

This trip was completely different from anything I had ever experienced. It was my first time stepping outside of Europe, the first time using my passport, and the first time preparing for a trip with a travelers' medical consultation. I received valuable guidance about local health precautions and ended up taking four vaccines before flying out.

Arriving in Senegal was a cultural and emotional shock. The heat hit me immediately, and I quickly noticed how underdeveloped many areas were... unfinished buildings, visible poverty, and chaotic traffic. Yet, among all that, there were countless happy kids playing outside, full of energy and joy.

I stayed at the Rio Baobab resort, which ended up feeling like a spiritual retreat. The beach water was always warm, around 30°C, the nights were filled with themed activities. Local food options were limited, mostly fish-based dishes, and the incredible baobab juice.

The experiences I had were unforgettable. I went on a safari and saw rhinos, giraffes, zebras, and crocodiles roaming their natural habitat. Later, I joined an experience focused only on lions, where we stayed inside a reinforced vehicle while these majestic felines approached us closely. It was surreal!

I also visited Gorée Island, a historically heavy place marked by Portuguese, Dutch, French, and English presence during the era of slavery. The visit to the iconic House of Slaves, now a museum, was powerful and emotional.

Another highlight was the Monument of the African Renaissance, a 49-meter-tall bronze structure that dominates the landscape. It's majestic, controversial among locals, and absolutely worth seeing up close.

Despite being so different from what I'm used to, the trip was incredible. I would absolutely do it again, especially now that I understand the local culture better, including how to negotiate with Senegalese street sellers, who really push hard!