Goree Island 6-24

Today we all (both families) hopped on a ferry over to Goree Island.  The island was basically a slave island from the 1400s until the end of the slave trade.  It was under the rule of various European governments over the years including the Dutch, English, Portugeuse & French.  You can really see the European influence in the architecture; it felt like a European town in the middle of Africa.  We toured the major slave market which was eerie to say the least.  There were small rooms labeled "hommes," "femmes," "enfants" and "recalcitrants."  In the center was a long hallway that ended with a doorway called "the door of no return" where the slaves were taken to the ships that took them to the Americas.  After the tour of the slave market we walked all over the island (it's very small) and saw remnants of the French military and the many, many artisans that have taken over these former military spaces. 

The highlight for me was the sand painting demonstration.  It was very interesting to see all the different colored sand and hear where each one was from.  He showed us how he layers the glue and the various colors of sand to create the paintings and in a matter of seconds had "painted" a traditional "case."  Many of us bought some of his paintings to bring home.  After that we had lunch where we practiced some French with Claude's family.  The water at Goree was beautiful and clear and very inviting but unfortunately we hadn't worn our suits so just got to put our feet in. 

After we got back to Dakar on the ferry I then had to make my third trek to the tailor for my dress; fortunately this time it fit AND I could sit down in it! =)  And as soon as we got back to the Phare it was dance lesson time with Carol and Esperance!  The wedding is western style in general, BUT has some decidedly African touches to it!  Namely, the bridal party and both families have to dance their way in and out of the church!!  Since Matt & I are in the wedding, we actually have four different dances we have to learn!  The lesson went better than expected and hopefully I won't look too silly on Saturday! 

Tomorrow is another busy day with a traditional Cameroonian cultural wedding ceremony (not really sure what this entails yet!) followed by the wedding rehearsal (more dancing!) and what promises to be a delicious rehearsal dinner at a Brazilian restaurant!  Whew! Are you tired yet from reading this blog?! Can you believe this is only the first of six countries cuz I can't!

Bon nuit!
mari