Our cross-country journey over spring break was crucial to my understanding of Senegal. Senegal is not Yoff. It is certainly not Dakar. It is not a stagnant set of principles and traditions defined by any one place. Seeing so much of the country in a relatively short period of time really highlighted the regional differences. Noting these differences provided a constant source of stimulation. Yet, somehow, I also came to appreciate Senegal’s interconnectedness, that which unites Senegal and contributes to its stronghold of solidarity.





I also learned how to find comfort in the slightest sign of civilization. My understanding of “civilization” itself either narrowed or expanded, I’m not quite sure how best to describe the transformation, but, essentially, I came to appreciate the vast range of conditions under which people are capable of living—some shade, a well, a goat, and you are all set! Somehow.

Traveling through the ecovillage network furthered my appreciation of the network’s mission and all that it already encompasses. If one is in good health, going village to village is the best way to see Senegal. No question.






I also fell in love with Kedegou—a center of civilization that had somehow managed to retain an authentic Senegalese feel.

Most importantly, perhaps, the spring break trip was liberating as well as empowering. It was the first time I didn’t feel as though Senegal was inaccessible; the experience of being welcomed into the cultures of so many lessened the importance of language and cultural barriers.