Another point of contrast between this year and last is the sense of community. In Abidjan, the people welcomed me with open arms emotionally; however, socially, that welcome was only available Monday to Friday between the hours of 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. What about nights and weekends, you might wonder? Find your own fun, kid.

For me, Abidjan meant solo fun because Tim was not present for more than half of my time in Côte d’Ivoire. It’s amazing how long you can stretch out a trip to the grocery store when you need to, looking at every product and trying to connect with the security guards as if they are personal friends.

I’ve spent a substantial amount of time trying to analyze the social dynamic in Côte d’Ivoire, and this is what I’ve come up with:

• It is so hot in the city of Abidjan that most people stay home on the weekends, making it a very indoorsy culture.
• Religion plays a very significant role in society, so a substantial amount of free time is spent in worship settings (or preparing to be in worship settings).
• Women don’t generally share as much personal freedom as they do in more Western countries, so going to have drinks or dinner with female friends is not very common (plus drinking is not part of the culture for a high percentage of the population).
• The cost of living is very high, and the average wage is very low, so many people cannot afford to go out socially.

Cabo Verde is the opposite of everything I just listed.

• Although the climate is hot, Praia is not as hot as the West African continent, so people get outside every day for some exercise, either early in the morning or in the evening.
• The country is primarily Catholic, but religion does not seem to occupy much space here. I have never had anyone ask me what my religion is or invite me to church. Hallelujah!
• Women enjoy tons of personal freedom here – even more than in certain states in the U.S. at this point.
• The cost of living in Cabo Verde is much more affordable, allowing nearly everyone to go out for a coffee, beer, or dinner regularly. And they do!

But the main difference between this place and Côte d’Ivoire is that the Embassy community has been so welcoming. Honestly, I had given up hope of being invited to events after my last year abroad. In Abidjan, I was not included in anything social at the embassy level (except for the election after-party that had the excitement of a funeral (insert crying emoji)).

Again, Cabo Verde has surprised me in all the best ways. In addition to being invited to the Ambassador’s twice-weekly yoga class, we’ve attended events and parties at different residences around the city, as well as community events against climate change. Cue the tears of joy!

Tomorrow, the Cape Verdean soccer team is playing in the local stadium to see if they can qualify for the World Cup tournament next year. The country is on fire with excitement, and I am on fire with gratitude. We’re going to the game tomorrow with our delightful, welcoming community.

My long-held belief is that no matter the circumstance, life is made sweeter by the people you meet along the way. I just need to find a blue t-shirt for tomorrow. Go Blue Sharks!