Ouch! That Monkey Just Bit Me! Backpacking West Africa..

This blog post was originally published for Do It While You're Young, a community and network for women ages 18-35 who previously or are currently traveling, studying, working, or volunteering abroad.

I’m a believer that your age should never be greater than the number of countries you’ve visited.

I’ve lived in Europe, volunteered in Asia, and done quick stints in Australia and across North America. Couchsurfing, solo traveling, Contiki tours, eco-service trips, Peace Corps, you name it! Though a passion for travel still ignites a fire in my petite belly, there aren’t many experiences that can really make me say, “This is crazy!” Until a few months ago; however, two girlfriends and I decided to backpack West Africa for 24 days…

Mali – The Gem of Africa

Staying at the Sleeping Camel in Bamako allowed us to acquire the “need-to-know” information about the city. The Artisan market had an incredible selection of wood crafts and jewelry forcing the three of us to stock up (why I bought a drum the first day to carry around I still don’t know!). The music scene and night life on Route de Bla Bla – yes, that’s really its name – allowed us to kick off our trip in full force.

There may be nothing more awe-inspiring than UNESCO’s World Heritage town of Djenne. It’s here where we were mesmerized by the Grand Mosque- the largest mosque in the world made completely from mud! Not only are the homes constructed from mud as well, but they are multi-storied creating an ancient town of varying building heights.

Soon it was time for our three day hike across Dogon Country. At arrival our guide stated “We are going to hike for 15 kilometers this afternoon. This will take five hours if you walk well.” Keep in mind that I’m a former New Yorker that used to take the subway from 34^th to 42^nd Street! Nonetheless, sleeping on roofs under the stars and seeing pure, untouched Africa was incredibly surreal. During our (ridiculously long) hike, we came across Tiogou, a village built on rock formations supporting waterfalls and Youga Dogourou, a village where inhabitants live inside a mountain’s crevices!

Burkina Faso – No Man’s Land

After an ATM fiasco (let’s just say $400US was taken out of my checking account though I never physically received the money!), we jumped on an 8-hour bus to Bobo-Dioulasso (where you ask?!). Yes, Burkina is very much OFF the beaten path, part of its lure! The country is one of the poorest in the world, yet since it is a transport country, the roads are upkept.

We received a local tip to shop at Gafreh Boutique, a fair-trade store that showcases products created from recycled plastic bags. At Banfora, we touched the Karfiguela Waterfalls and the Sand Domes of Fabedougou before heading off to Burkina’s capital, Ouagadougou (say this five times fast!).

Togo – Not the Sandwich, But a Lovely Country

When we reached Togo, we searched the village of Goundoga for a secret “castle in a cliff” (okay, maybe not too secret as we read about it in a Lonely Planet guide, but it’s definitely not a touristy place)! While traveling there, I realized we had no clue where we would spend the night. “Would you like to stay at the chief’s house?” my chauffeur inquired. Yes!

It turns out our “castle in the cliff” was actually a mini-fortress with a steel ladder built into the side of Mt. Semoo during the 19^th century. The Chokossi had established an empire; however, the Moba resented this and built the fortress to hide from soldiers and tax collectors. Just like the IRS!

After a 12-hour ride (yes, 12 hours!), we welcomed the cool-climate of Kpalime, a tropical paradise amongst hilly forests, artisan markets, and cocoa and coffee farms. The best activity to do here: butterfly hunting!

Lome was my favorite city of the trip with its gorgeous beaches (check out Aneho too!), great shopping, delicious restaurants (Vietnamese pho anyone?) and voodoo! An affordable place to stay is Le Galion, which is walking distance to the beach. I would have recommended Chez Alice, 12km away in Aveposo, but the hostel’s monkey bit me!

Benin – Beaches and Stilts

The trip ended with a quick stop to Grand Popo – another beach resort (we needed it!) and Ganvie, a stilt village only reachable by canoe! At Ganvie, 30,000 Tofinu people live in stilt houses that sit two meters above water. Back in the 17^th century, the Tofinu fled here to escape slavery as their attempted captors, the Dahomey, were afraid of water and disallowed to enter it due to religion.

Be warned: backpacking West Africa is not for the novice tourist or for those lacking patience! Bush taxis (i.e. squeezing 8 people into a taxi!), non-existent time-tables, a beating African sun, and constant negotiation are just the realities of a trip like this. However, for those searching for adventure, you will find nothing less!

Day 11: Goodbye, Europe. You Will Be Missed...

It's incredibly hard to believe that this trip is ending. It's even harder to believe that I didn't know any of these wonderful people with whom I have been with for 24 hours a day. Now, I'm leaving with the best of memories and adventures of spectacular countries and cities in Europe. It was a shock for us all as today was our last day in Prague. Although I am excited to come home, it's still bittersweet to leave such an amazing experience.

The breakfast at Hotel Ibis was excellent! We had a nice selection of warm and cold foods. The hotel itself also had free internet and was close to the supermarket and metro. Liz Issac, Ericka Starr, and I definitely had to ride the paddleboats under the Charles Bridge today.

Paddleboating on the Vlatava River under the Charles
Bridge!

Another life goal to complete: ride a jazz boat in Prague!






We spent the day doing what we're best at: shopping! I got a great belt for about 5 US dollars and of course, another shot glass.

Tip #9: Use your card to withdraw at the ATMs. In the event that your card gets rejected, move on to the next! If you don't, your card can and will be eaten by the machine!

We had our last dinner at Michaels (sad!) where I definitely got pulled up onstage to dance with the old male performer. Good times!

Last dinner at Michaels!

We had a simple night at a bar. As there were 2 shuttles leaving for the airport the next morning, half the group had to say goodbye to the other. It was surely sad, but we'll always be connected to each other through this fabulous experience!

Centre of Prague with the boss!

The Contiki group one last time!

THANKS FOR A GREAT TIME, EUROPE! Until I return you will be missed!

Day 10: Prague--I'm Liking It!

I had no clue what to expect from the Czech Republic, but only really that it was beautiful. Of course, the #1 tourist attraction was Prague Castle and its guards.

Prague Castle

The city's cobble stone streets, along with its classic views, make it timeless.

I think this belongs in a Contiki travel brochure!

I shouldn't have done this. Notice Guard 1 giving me a death glare!

Ashley, Zach, Nikki and I ate the most delicious dinner at Hotel U Prince all for a fantastic price of no more than 15 euros.

Tip #7: Do NOT ask for split checks or really special requests in this country. The waiters will be angry and might as well eat you alive.

Sunset in the middle of Prague

At Nightclub Coyote, there are 5 levels of dancing--no euros and of course, no id check!

Tip #8: The metro closes at 12:30PM, so you should be ready to take taxis! Also, they like to "bargain" their cab prices over there, so just make sure that the meter is on and that you pay that price.

Very nice, Prague!

Day 9: Crystals, Munich and More...

Ryan (our amazing tour guide) surprised us once more! On our way to Germany, we stopped by the Swarovski's headquarters--home of some of the most beautiful crystal collections in the world. There's even a pretty sweet zipline outside the headquarters!

Crystals at Swarovski headquaters. Fancy!

Another stop we took was to Camp Dachau, the first Nazi concentration camp. It was a very powerful experience nothing short of intense. We saw the barracks where people would have to sleep (sometimes up to 10 people in each) and even more ominous, the gas chambers. An incredibly moving experience and pictures will not be posted due to obvious reasons. As we got back on the bus, we listened to "The Sunscreen Song" which caused some people to cry. Very touching.

Once we reached Munich, I had to try some bratwurst. The girls and I went shopping down Tal Street.

Tip #6: Try the grapes at the sidewalk fruit stands! They're so full and delicious!

We had a delicious dinner at Hofbraubraus along with a folk culture show. Downstairs at the beer gardent, we met a girl from Baltimore and a guy from Turkey (so random!). We also had some 14-year-old Italian boys hitting on us. Haha. That provided a good laugh! We ended the night with more clubbing, of course! At Cult Fabric (sp?), there are about 30 nightclubs stuck in a run-down, but vibrant district.

Club Willentos and all its glory!

Day 8: On to Some Sportiness

After getting a chance to finally sleep in, we had our first warm breakfast of eggs and bacon. We then slapped on some sunscreen and put on our helmets for some mountain biking all around Tyrol. Usually, I can't stand cycling, but did I love it today! Nice trails and long downhills (and the fact that I was in Austria) definitely added to my new affinity.

Mountain biking in Tyrol, Austria

We headed to a restaurant at the top of a hill and had a traditional luncheon of Austrian/German lunch of sausage and potatoes.

Mmm...yay for sour cream and sausages! Finally, a place in Europa with some ketchup!

Liz Olden and I explored the city upon our arrival. I got some caramel ice cream for only 2 Euros. Apparently, they make the ice cream for you on the spot like a push pop! It was delicious.

They make ice cream on the spot! The ice cream vendor pushes it through like a push pop.

The night ended with a Contiki "Pimps and Hos" party! Met some nice Australians and Canadians. Man, oh man. Good times! We'll just leave it at that.

Day 7: Adventures in Austria

Today's adventure knocks out another line on my life list of things to do: WHITEWATER RAFTING! Although only Level 2, we all definitely had a great time on the 11 rapids. It really did hit me as I was floating down the river that I was really here in Austria, whitewater rafting, without a care in the world...

Whitewater rafting with Feelfree!

We definitely had a gorgeous guide (of course!) along with some goulash soup and what else? A shot of vodka for success!

The girls and our awesome guide! (who, as I was sitting on the front of the raft, decided to purposely push me in!)

Completely exhausted, we headed off to Contiki's own gasthof in Tyrol. We relaxed for a bit that night before giving business to the Silver Bullet Bar in the local town. This excursion and the Moulin Rouge have been by far the best!

Day 6: Venice and Its Pleasures

We've been sleeping no more than 5 hours each night. I usually go to bed around 3AM and wake up at 7AM-I wouldn't have it any other way!

The boat ride to Venice took about 20 minutes and the city is just spectacular. Perhaps the fact that it lies underwater makes it even more beautiful in its own way. I'm not a fan of pigeons at all, but St. Mark's Square just wouldn't be the same without them!

Bridge of Sighs, St. Mark's Square, and The Bastille

I bought another shot glass at the Rialto Market to add to my collection as I have one from each country I visit. Venetian glass is classy as predicted and very affordable. We even watched a glass blowing show where a craftsman made a snail from hot glass in less than 2 minutes! Very skillful.

Venetian glass at it's finest

Tip #5: Try the coconuts juiced with water from the fountains! They're not that tasty, but you just shouldn't resist the experience.

Of course, one cannot visit Venice without a gondola ride! Apparently though, not all gondoliers sing. It is illegal unless one has a certified license and a professional accordion player with them. It's all part of Italy preserving its culture! Again, our amazing tour guide presented us with champagne for the ride!

Yay for gondola rides and champagne!

As our hotel was way outside the city, it was a stay-in night for the crew and me. Not to worry, the girls and I played, let's just say, an "interesting" game of Hot Seat! For those that don't know, when it's your 2-minute turn, everyone can ask you questions about anything. Everything is free game and you must answer honestly. GOOD TIMES!

Spectacular Venice at night...

Venice, I will return and visit your museums when I have enough time to do you justice!

Day 5: Life in Florence

After our adventures last night, we started the day with a very informative walking tour where we experienced the sights and sounds of Florence.

The Church of Santa Croce and Arno River. Pretty!

Afterwards, we spent the afternoon shopping where I bought a couple David Beckham jerseys for only 18 Euros (approx. 24 dollars).

Fútbol Jersey Day!

Of course, being in Italia, we had to try some GELATO! We hit up the famous Vivoli gelateria, one of the most popular, if not the most well-known gelato shops in all of Florence.

Tip #4: Try at least 3 samples of flavors of gelato at whatever shop you go to! It's just too good to not. Oh, and remember to pay first and then give the receipt to get your ice cream. Common courtesy in most European countries.

We then gathered under the Tuscan sun for a group photos with an excellent view of Florence at sunset.

On top of the world...well, Florence at least!

The dinner at La Certosa was wonderful! They started us all off with blue champagne cocktail that followed with soup and pieces of steak. We even saw a proposal happen in another Contiki tour!

Blue champagne cocktail at La Certosa

Afterwards, we all danced at the hottest night club in Florence, Space Electronic! One of the group members set us up with the VIP room overlooking the dance floor. Needless to say, it was sweet!

Day 4: Swiss Alps and Florence, Italia

We woke up early to get to the top of the Swiss Alps. Although cloudy, the sight was one to see. It was nice getting a breath of crisp, clear air!

Top of the Swiss Alps and ridiculous high school pose!

We then headed onto our Contiki coach for a three-hour ride to Florence. After a nice Tuscan dinner, our awesome tour guide surprised us with some complimentary limoncello.

Tuscan dinner!

We then headed onto the Red Garter bar where
the girls and I HAD to sing some karaoke!

Singing Britney Spears' "Hit Me Baby One More Time"

We headed off down the street to dance all night at Club Twice. Liz Issac and I literally ran away from some agressive locals. Let's just say thank goodness I'm independent and can yell back like no other!

Red Garter bar with some of my new favorite people!

Best and craziest night in Europe so far!

Day 3: Swiss Time in Lucerne

Switzerland: The land of chocolate and army knives. Friendly people and secret bank accounts. We walked across the famous Chapel Bridge and man, did I want to swim Reuss River! The water was so absolutely clear.

The Reuss River. Once I find a partner in crime, I am coming back to swim here!

Later that night, we watched a yodeling
show and had some delicious fondue.








The greatest part of the night was going to Club Adagio. It has a beach theme and they actually bring sand into the club, so you can dance barefoot! Nice for the girls as we didn't have to deal with those cute, but hurtful shoes.







Not too shabby, Switzerland! I like it.

Day 2: Playtime in Paris

The first full day in Paris was FULL of sweet stuff and surprises! At the Louvre, a group of us looked at the Mona Lisa, Venus de Milo, and of course, had a photoshoot by the Inverted Pyramid that Tom Hanks ended up at during "The Da Vinci Code."

The Louvre and its beautiful architecture

Tip #3: Don't wait hours in line at the main entrance of the Louvre. Facing away from the museum and pyramid lies a large arch that leads to a basement. Save time and take the underground steps to enter The Louvre through the "secret" entrance.

We hit up Notre Dame again and touched Point Zero, the center of Paris. Legend has it if you spin around on it, you'll return one day!

Twirling on Point Zero to return to Paris!

After a fantastic lunch (with nutella and bananas on crepes, of course), we went shopping on Rio de River--definitely bought some cute clothes at the Paris H&M!

The best surprise occured at night when the whole group was taken to the Moulin Rouge! A dancer swam around with boas from acquarium that randomly popped up from underground, acrobats stood vertically head-to-head, gorgeous people wore gourgeous outfits--definitely a good time!

The ladies of our Contiki group before Moulin Rouge

A group of us ended the night clubbing by the Bastille! Although Latin Quarter was a hot spot, we hit up a local night club, Club Wax, with no cover and alot of American music!

Dancing the night away at Club Wax

Good times! I will miss you, Paris! As I have spun around on Point Zero, I will return again and perhaps live here!