October 24 2025 - Navigating Serrekunda: Visas, Dirt Roads, and Family Reunions

11/11/2025 5 min Temporada 3 Episodio 23
October 24 2025 - Navigating Serrekunda: Visas, Dirt Roads, and Family Reunions

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Episode Synopsis

Location: Serrekunda, The GambiaEpisode Notes: October 24th was all about logistics, adventure, and connecting with family. One of the reasons to be in Serrekunda was to get a visa for Guinea-Bissau. Fortunately, we had already secured the visa in Dakar, and the consulate was just a half-hour walk from our hotel. The walk included a few challenges, like crossing a six-lane highway and navigating around a broken bridge, but it offered a beautiful path and plenty to see along the way.The visa process itself was straightforward but delayed due to a quirky issue with the electronic payment machine—it took over an hour for it to charge enough to accept payment. Once that was sorted, we met the consulate staff, who were very helpful, and that part of the trip was done.After returning, we indulged in some downtime at the pool and beach before I made my way to visit Maria Rose and Modu. Driving there was an adventure: navigating dirt roads, sand, rocks, and holes, all while racing against the fading light. Eventually, I arrived at their home, elevated on a built-up road, where I enjoyed freshly prepared fish and got to experience everyday life in The Gambia.The journey back included a minor detour, but Modu guided me safely, and I made it back before nightfall. It was a challenging but rewarding day filled with culture, connection, and new experiences.Key Moments:Walking to the Guinea-Bissau consulate and navigating around the broken bridge.Waiting for the electronic payment machine to finally accept the visa fee.Enjoying downtime at the hotel pool and beach.Driving to Maria Rose and Modu’s home along intense dirt roads.Experiencing a home-cooked meal and seeing how some people live in The Gambia.Getting safely back despite a small detour, appreciating the local guidance.Reflecting on the adventure, connection, and culture experienced during the day.

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