December 2024

Last week, my Ivorian colleague invited me to a cultural festival at the local university, and I was, of course, happy to attend. What does a cultural festival mean? I have no idea. Here is the pattern of my life here: I get invited to an event. I say yes. I don’t know exactly what…

Since arriving in Abijan, I’ve wanted to visit the artisan’s market, which has handmade goods from around Côte d’Ivoire and other parts of Africa. I had seen pictures and read about it but had yet to visit. I knew going would be challenging because all the prices are negotiable, and negotiation is not a strong…

Even before I moved here, I heard that it’s simple and very affordable to have clothing made in many countries in Africa. If you have a dress that you love, buy some beautiful African fabric and have a replica made. Although my clothing is casual, the idea of having some custom dresses made was so…