The coast of Ivory Coast

beach at Grand Bassam

  We made it to the ocean as you can

see in the picture. From where I'm sitting

the camera was turned a little to the right

and that would be looking towards the US.

I believe straight would lead us to Brazil.

   Burkina Faso is a landlocked country 

so coming to the coast is definitely a change.

As vacations should be, it is a change of 

scenery. The waves, the sound of the surf

and the smell of the ocean air is the current

that can recharge the soul.

  After going for an upscale breakfast and 

flagging down a taxi, negotiating and having

a great conversation with the young Ivorian

driver we arrived at Grand-Bassam. The taxi

driver mentioned that it was the original 

capital of Ivory Coast.

  Seeing as we are poor Peace Corps Volunteers

we looked for frugal lodging. After going to 

several hotels and smaller hostels/auberges

we came across a low cost one. But you get

what you pay for and it does have the basics.

A nice beach makes up for the lack of some

higher amenities.

  We are planning on three days here then it's

working our way back to Abidjan for a few 

days then the big bus ride back to Burkina.

  The room is spartan but about forty feet from

the ocean. Tonight ought to be an incredible

night to sleep. With the cool ocean air and 

the sounds of the waves as they curl and 

wash up on the shore, we'll be meditating 

in our sleep.