Engaging West Africans

Before our trip to West Africa, we read with interest Jim Sill’s 2-part feature on that region, even taking a copy of it with us on the trip. What a different experience we had. (In portions of Jim’s 2-part account, Dec. ’07, pg. 46 & Jan. ’08, p. 58, he describes being hounded by two hustlers in Mali and mentions “being unable to connect on a personal level with any of the locals.” — Editor)

Our 36-day private tour of seven countries (Mali, Benin, Togo, Ghana, Côte d’Ivoire, Burkina Faso and Senegal), Feb. 13-March 19, 2008, was arranged by Palace Travel (5301 Chestnut St., Philadelphia, PA 19139; 800/683-7731, www.palacetravel.com).

The total cost of the trip for the two of us, including internal air, hotels, breakfasts and guide/driver, was $28,620. Most of the touring was done by vehicle. We had very courteous and thoughtful guides.

In every country we were in, the people said to us, “You are welcome.” They were very cordial and helpful and told us how much they appreciated all that America had done for their country and how much they like Americans.

I believe that in order to truly have an exceptional experience in West Africa, it is necessary to travel either on a scheduled tour or with an interpreter. For most of us there is a language barrier, since (outside of Ghana) most of the countries are French-speaking and, of course, have their own local languages as well.

We would be glad to be of assistance if anyone wants information regarding any of the places we visited. E-mail us c/o ITN.

HERB & AUDREY SAPERSTEIN

Huntington Woods, MI