Gambia

Thursday 7^th February

Got up at 1:30AM to go to the bus shelter. Very very tired! Got there at 2AM and met others. We all converged in a huge group; got glares from other passengers! Coach arrived sometime before 3. Sat next to Eleanor. We chatted a little, then tried to sleep. Didn't come to much, so played card games. Lots and lots of card games! Did sleep for a while after this, but not so well. Woken by arrival at Heathrow. Chatted more, then slept fitfully until arrival at Gatwick.

Getting off the coach was too cold. Had to wait for others to go to toilets as well; those of us left waiting seriously debated leaving them! Once everyone was done, however, we went up to the airport itself. Spent a while checking bag weights: mine fine (thankfully). Mr B allocated parts for 'The Tempest'. If we do it, I've bagsied Caliban, purely for the dream again line!

Checked in hold luggage. We split into groups; I was with Will, Ben and Mr B. Woman checking us in was very picky- we took ages whilst she told us we were in the wrong, only to prove that we were right all along! Also, flight time changed from 10AM to 8:15AM, with 7:25AM boarding. Miss A hadn't been told of change previously; this was at 6:55AM!

Walked through duty-free shop, which smelt of travel and money. Eventually got through to main area, and had 10 minutes to look around and buy food. Coffee, chocolate and a magazine. Perfect!

Almost lost boarding pass, but found it by coffee place- luckily! Eventually moved through to gate. Whilst waiting in queue, Eleanor also realised she'd lost her boarding pass, and had to go back. Thankfully she also found it.

Got on plane! Ignored seats we were meant to have, just made sure we were all in Cabot-allocated seats. I had window seat in aisle with Eleanor and Anju (who at the time I thought was watching TV- then I realised it was blank). Take-off was great, and got some fab pictures as we flew over Europe. Ooh, Daisy- first time flyer- was amazed by the experience! 

View From The Aeroplane 

The flight was very long, though having a window seat helped- it was great to look out at everything we flew over! Clear weather as well ^.^ Read some of To Kill A Mockingbird, worked on collection and wrote a bit as well. For the last two and a bit hours, Anju, Eleanor and I played card games then the squiggle game, which grew more and more ridiculous as time went on!

We finally landed around half 2. As we hit the aeroplane, the heat hit us! We spent a long time waiting for luggage but finally set off to Senegambia- and the Holiday Beach Club!! 

Banjul Airport

Hey, Guess What!? We're In The Gambia!

The drive was very thought-provoking. Saw a lot of unfinished buildings and small 'shacks', generally largely made of corregated metal. Also a lot of single market stalls.

Got to hotel. Filled in forms and got rooms. Eleanor and I are in A11- yes, we've been divided up into A Wing and B Wing. There's no getting away from it!

Changed into cooler clothes then went dowwn to bar/pool. 

The Pool, As Seen From The Bar

Miss A paid for us all to have a soft drink; I had Sprite in a lovely glass. A few people had Fanta- our first experience of the 'no food laws' in Gambia. The Fanta is bright orange!!

Chatting In The Bar

We all converged around a couple of tables, chatting in groups and looking longingly at the pool. 

Mr B eventually went and sat with his feet in the water, so we all joined him. Took some great photos!

Most Of Gambia 2013

Will, Nicole & Eloise had swimming stuff on underneath their clothes, so they got in. The rest of us were allowed to get changed, but only I actually did. By the time I got back, however, the other three had got out, complaining of the cold. I thought the pool was a great temperature- so nice whilst growing accustomed to the boiling heat!! We eventually persuaded Will to get back in and race me; he got a headstart, but I won ^.^

Got out. Everyone went back up to the rooms to get ready for dinner. The A Wing people (Miss W & Miss A; Nicole & Eloise; Me & Eleanor; Kate & Lottie; Daisy & Florrie) were all out on the balconies so we chatted over the mini 'walls'. Saw a monkey! Also had fun waving to the B Wing people.

View From Our Room, And Corner Of B Wing

Went down to the beach and watched the sunset, which was absolutely beautiful. Took many lovely lovely pictures.

My Room-Mate And I On The Beach

The Sun Starting To Set

Sunset On The Beach

Sunset ^.^

Such A Lion King Picture!

One thing that shocked us all a little was having to ignore the people around us who were trying to sell all sorts of things. Very hard not to give in, but there's little else we can do; we're banned from buying from them anyway.

Walked up to the sort-of 'high street'. It was very busy and bright; also beautiful, in it's own way. 

The Main Road

We swapped money for delasis (52 to one pound!). Anju and I bought a shared sim card so we could text home.

Had dinner at pizza restaurant- very nice!! They were playing recorded African music and everyone was trying not to dance along. The food was very nice and quite cheap; my (medium) chicken pizza and (bright orange!!) Fanta cost D250- around £5.

My Fanta And I!

We also had our first introduction to the 'special couples'- middle-aged (or just old) white women with young Gambian men. Occasionally two young Gambian men. It's a bit odd to think about.

Live band started playing but we had to go. Bought bottled water; D30, so 60p for 1.5L.

Walked home. The streets were very bright and busy. Everyone exhausted- little sleep last night followed by a long long day. But what a day! It feels like we've been here for a lot longer than a few hours. Already I'm getting to know everyone better, which is really nice.

Currently in bed- whole double to myself ^.^ Could get used to this! Many exciting plans for tomorrow, and want to get up early to have a quiet half-hour or so. I can hear loud, happy African music, crickets chirping and the waves on the beach. I'm in Africa!!!
 *

Friday, 8^th February

Alarm went around 6:30AM. Eleanor and I had been planning to get up early and sit on the balcony to enjoy a bit of cooler air, but it stayed dark until surprisingly late.

Got ready and had 20 minutes to sit on balcony; most other people were also out, so it was very sociable. Then went for breakfast. We were second to last, and almost got a forfeit- then Florrie and Daisy turned up, and they got it instead. Breakfast was very nice. Bread and jam, fruit and coffee. Good times!

Played ping pong on the table by the pool, which was really fun. I failed, of course, but as lots of people did badly it was just amusing.
Getting Intense (?!)

Walked up to the green bus; our travel for the next two weeks! Before we got in, however, we saw a huge group of monkeys, so took lots of pictures. A video was also taken observing 'monkeys and students in their natural habitat- lazing around'. Then it was pointed out that we should probably stop photographing the monkeys and get into the bus to go and feed some!!
So Many Monkeys!!!

Monkeys On A Wall

Look At That Baby

First stop was to change money. Most people changed £100, which became D5200. Halfway through they had to get more money as there was such a lot to change. It looked like a lot more once changed, as well- 52 notes anyone!? Mr B was last, and ended up with it all in D50 notes, so double the amount of paper.

The whole thing took aaaages, and everyone started to melt a little in the heat. As we finished, some of us went outside to wait whilst others stayed inside. I went out- the road we were on was very interesting; there was so much going on! It felt like hundreds of people walked past. We've noticed that the men generally wear Western dress, whilst the women are a lot more traditional. They often have pots on their heads or babies- literally- tied to their backs as well.
The Road We Waited On

Whilst we were waiting , a young child- 7 or 8 years?- came up and said hello. We said hello back, and there was a small amount of conversation, but we soon went back to being quiet and looking around. The child (unsure if girl or boy) waited a while longer, just looking at us, and eventually asked for money for bread. Saying we couldn't was incredibly hard, especially as the child stayed there, just looking at us. However, giving the money wouldn't help in the long run; it just encourages begging, which isn't good long-term.

After everyone had changed their money, we got back into the bus and went to Abuko Nature Reserve. On the way, we saw some armed guards; turned out that the President was due to drive past, on the way back from his holiday (in his £3m house- prat, for want of a better word!). We were unsure if we'd be able to see him or not, however.

We got started on the nature trail when we saw the first of the President's convoy. We backtracked, and stood to watch the procession. He wasn't actually out, or in view at all- just sat in his limo- but we can still say we kind of saw him. Lucky us.
Nature Reserve Welcome Sign- I Love 1 And 2

Went back to the nature reserve. It was really interesting; we saw strangler trees and huge termite mounds. There were supposedly crocodiles in a pool we could see from a vantage point, but if they were there they weren't in sight. From the crocodiles we carried on around to the monkeys, which took a while. Everyone has now heard Mr B's version of the story of the 'Sword of Damocles'. In fact, some people have heard it two or three times!
Procession Of Ants We Jumped Over

Eventually, we reached the monkeys. I'm not sure what type they are; they're very cute, though, and the same 'type' as the ones at the hotel. We all bought peanuts, and everyone had a chance to both feed the monkeys and get pictures of them feeding the monkeys. All the monkeys were so so cute! They had lovely hands as well. I offered to marry one, but it didn't accept :(
Peanut Time

Close Up!

Heya Mr Monkey

By the monkeys was a small shop; our first chance to practice haggling. I thought I did well, then realised that actually I'd done awfully. Got a tortoise carving for Mollie and a crocodile keyring for myself- D350 down to D300, the equivalent of around £6. Ooh!

We also looked around the other animals, this time in cages. I liked the hyenas- they're cute even when they open their mouths! Funnily enough, most people don't agree with my opinion on this one.
Look At Those Ears...

Once we'd finished, we walked around the rest of the reserve, and got onto the bus to see the crocodiles. By this point it wasn't midday, but still very hot.

Before the crocodiles, we looked around a small museum; there were lots of pictures and some musical instruments, which I was quite interested in. Also a picture of 'Gambian Soldiers Train[ing] A Bush'. As you do.
Apparently Essential

Also a perfect photo opportunity- the group in an elephant tree!
Gambia 2013!

Walked round to the crocodile pool. There was one 'main' croc (the one we were allowed to touch) and some others, either around the top or in the pool/pit. We waited in a group to one side, then went up one by one to touch the crocodile and have a picture taken. Miss A took a picture of everyone with her posh camera, but we all got someone to take one on our own as well.
Schni Schna Schnappi

As I went up to the crocodile, I think I kind of forgot exactly what I was doing; then suddenly it hit me that it was a crocodile and could kill me at any given moment. That was a bit scary! Went for it though, and have the pic to prove it. To be honest, it was probably completely drugged up anyway.

Supposedly Charlie (the crocodile featured on all the money) was 'sleeping' in the pool. However, we know from Miss A that he died a couple of years ago.
SNAP SNAP SNAP

In the same area there was a man selling croc teeth on necklaces for D150. Lottie and I haggled and got it reduced to D50 each though (just under £1). I refused to let anyone- particularly Miss A- get anywhere near mine as I didn't want them to tell me it was fake.

There were a couple more shops (more like stalls) at the entrance; lots of people bought bracelets, though Will went the full way and got a top. I was sorely tempted by the lovely bright skirts, but didn't go for it.
The Shop At The Entrance

Back on the bus and home to the hotel! We got changed for the pool and went down to have lunch. On the way down I bought a hat from the hotel shop; the one I brought on the trip doesn't fit, and doesn't have a back brim anyway.

Ate in the hotel bar/restaurant. Eleanor and I sat with Hannah and Anju. We had to wait a long long time for the food, so we ended up in a really deep conversation about police/murder/justice. However, it must be said that when the food arrived it was well worth the wait!

After we'd eaten, we all went in the pool. Most people played a ball game that was very fun but incredibly difficult- basically just keepy-uppy. Once we'd got bored, we got out and sat around on the deckchairs; Eleanor, Will, Ben, Miss W and I were all around the same area. Everyone sat around doing very little- barely even chatting. It was so so so hot!!!

Later on we went back up to the rooms. Eleanor and I packed a bit, then changed and got ready for dinner. We had some time to chill, and went back down to the pool to meet the others. There was a music/circus show; we saw a plate spinner and a fire juggler, both of which were very good.

The last act was a man on stilts. He was amazing! Played to the audience a lot, pretending to 'fall' etc. Eventually he did 'fall' (not on purpose, though Eleanor was very worried!), and Will tried to help him up- obviously not going to work. He eventually rescued himself by doing some sort of crab/backbend. Very good! The music was fantastic too- very African with much drumming.
Stilt Guy

A group of us went down to the beach for about 10 minutes. Eleanor and I ran around in the sea- my skirt got soaked, and I had to change again!
In The Sea (Wearing New Hat)

Went out for dinner to a different restaurant, this time 'The Kora' (the kora being a Gambian instrument with 21-23 strings, played with thumb and forefinger). We sat in similar seats to the night before, interestingly enough.

I had a chicken thing, which was really nice. Spent most of my evening flitting between conversations (with Eleanor, Eloise, Nicole and Mr B or Miss A, Miss W, Anju, Will and Ben).

Aftter dinner, shop stop then home and straight to bed. Exhausted, and an early rise ahead!!

 *

Saturday 9^th February

Got up very early today! Packed up last few bits and got ready, then went down (with suitcases) to minibus- ready to go to Farafenni! All the suitcases went on top, then we crammed into the seats; not unlike sardines. We set off shortly after 7 (before breakfast!) so saw the sun come up as we drove.

It took us around an hour to get to the port, which we thought was really positive. We had to wait 30 mins before we could actually get into the docks, however. Whilst we were waiting, a man came to the window and started chatting to all of us. At first it was just really friendly stuff- then it got a bit too friendly. Miss A told him to go away after he asked to buy one of us.

We closed all the windows after that incident! However, street-sellers soon noticed us; nearly everyone bought something. Miss W and I got the same necklace, which Eleanor almost got as well.

Eventually started moving again- we got through the ferry gates, which was good! However, we still didn't get on the one there at the time, and as it was the only one running we parked up for a 1-4 hour wait.

Unused Ferry

Spent a little time sat in the bus, which proved to be a big mistake: more salespeople came round. I ended up buying another necklace and three bracelets. I wore them all at once, so I was quite literally dripping in jewellery! Though, in my defence, I'm giving most of it away as presents, and Will and Lottie bought a heck of a lot more than me!

Most people got out of the van and stood near the port. It was very surreal- on one side of us was a wedding, whilst on the other there was a funeral.

Eleanor, Nicole and Eloise went to the toilet's, leaving me with Eleanor's camera. Which soon contained pictures of me/Will/Milburn pulling faces, alongside Milburn's arm pulled into a 'bum'. Also during the time outside, Miss A found out about Kate's Scout group. We don't think she'll ever hear the end of it- 'and today in RE we're going to explore marriage'.

We went back to the bus and waited longer. Finally finally finally, the ferry arrived back at port, and we started to move! Until, last minute, a load of VIPs turned up. VIPs versus volunteers? Another 1-4 hour wait.

Group of us went to the toilet, which involved a bit of a walk through very Aladdin-esque alleys. The toilet wasn't so nice- but at least it was Western. There were also two that weren't.

Back in the bus, we had a very amusing singalong. Eventually, however, boredom/heat set in and people went quiet and sleepy.

Finally we got on the ferry- everyone cheered as we drove on, provoking some odd looks.

Driving Under This Sign (Onto The Ferry) Was Such A Great Feeling

 

 It was a pleasant but uneventful journey; I enjoyed looking at the fishing boats, which are beautifully picturesque.

Go Fish

Also loved the moment we had as we got off: seeing all the brightly dressed people disembarking ahead of us. It was like a sea of colour; made me realise how boring England can be!

So Much Colour

Some people went to the toilet, whilst the rest of us stayed on the bus. We were all very hot, tired, hungry and thirsty. Thankfully, a man came along and sold us cold fizzy drinks! Anju also gave me half a pack of mini cookies. A few minutes later, I was feeling a lot better!

For the rest of the journey- around 2 and a half hours- most people slept, or were just quiet. I listened to my iPod and finished reading To Kill A Mokingbird. It was very good; admittedly I gasped a few times! Also had a chance to admire the landscape.

Lion King Moment Again

Got to Farafenni!!!We stopped at the shop- I got water, a fizzy drink, biscuits and cornflakes. All for under D250 (£5!!). The people- especially the kids- were very friendly too. One of the boys made me and Eleanor photograph him so that we'd remember him when we went to the school.

Argh, I Can't Remember His Name! :(

From there we went to the guesthouse. It's great! There were already mozzie nets up as well ^.^ The girls are all up one 'wing', the boys and the female teachers in another and the male teachers in a sort of unconnected annexe. Only disadvantage is that we have two toilets between ten, whilst the boys have one between two (the teachers have an ensuite each)!

Room 5 Rules ^.^

The Room

Room Again!

Unpacked, then everyone went out to the courtyard to sort out the donations. Eleanor, Ben and I organised the playing cards, which got us a few insults of 'slacker'. After, we had free time. I had a shower, then joined everyone in lazing around the communal lounge, watching TV.

The Lounge

 

At 7, we went outside for dinner, which didn't come till much later. Even the waiting was nice, however- the air got a lot cooler, and we just chatted for a while. Eleanor, Anju and I also played Guess Who.

The Courtyard; People Gathered By The Table

It was almost dark when food arrived; luckily there was a light. The food was great as well- definitely worth the wait! We had a buffet-style with noodles, chicken, bennechin, rice, chips and baked beans.

Post dinner we got ready for bed. Daisy had a shower and locked the outer toilet door, so a group of us went to the other 'wing' toilets- where we were greeted by Will, wearing boxers. Not an experience I want to repeat! We were all giggling and trying not to look; at which point Miss A came over, and was fairly taken aback.

Finally, Eleanor and I sprayed the net and went to bed (all of us students are sharing a double bed between two). We had to tuck the net right under the mattress, creating a sort of compartment thing.

Bed and sleep; yet another early morning to come!!

 *

 Sunday 10^th February

Got up at 5:45 to discover that the electricity wasn't on, so had to get dressed in the dark. Eleanor and I then just chatted for a while. We could hear the local mosque as they prayed, which was quite melodic and very nice to listen to.

We went outside at 6:30- it was still very dark- the stars were absolutely fantasmagorical. I ended up lying on the floor to look at them: saw my first shooting star.

Chatted till 7, when breakfast arrived. It was simple but lovely- we had a loaf of bread each, then butter & jam. Also a boiled egg and the nicest coffee. There were beans available, but no-one noticed them until near the end, by which time they were cold. Ah well, always tomorrow!

Went off in the van to the hippo place (which turned out to be the River Gambia...). Uneventful journey; fairly quiet. I mainly listened to music, updated diary, looked out window and waved at passing people. It's great here: they actually wave back! ^.^

Once we got to the 'hippo place' we got into our assigned boats, done strategically by Miss A the night before. I was with Eleanor, Anju, Nicole, Eloise, Ben, Miss W, Mr B and Lamin. Then we had a 'driver' and his younger brother, a boy called Samba who sometimes helped to drive. Took lots of pictures whilst waiting to set off.

Our Boat!

 Boat Group (Minus Mr B)

 Ahh, There He Is

Had a four hour journey in the boats; we spent most of the time chatting or playing games. The games were so fun, we all laughed a lot! Samba and Lamin also joined in. Learnt some Mandinka as well, which was nice.

The River Gambia

General View

 Wash Time

Also shared around our food, like a mini picnic. Very unhealthy- mainly biscuits and crisps. But oh well, we're in Gambia!

I spent some of the time chatting to Samba. He wanted to listen to my iPod, and said he liked Rihanna. Being me, I decided that this was a perfect opportunity to introduce him to good pop music- he really enjoyed both Jack Johnson and Amy Macdonald!

Samba And I

We didn't see any hippos for ages, and we pretty much gave up. Then, ten minutes from the end, we saw three- in the wild and everything!! Amazing! Got lots of pics, though camera was dying. Samba took some pictures on my iPod for me; one is currently my lock screen.

HIPPO

Seeing the hippos was such a good experience- even better that it was in the wild, so completely natural and unstaged!

LOOK

After the boat ride, we went to Georgetown. The toilets were awful; we had the choice between a smelly hole in the ground or a shack full of spiders.

Next was a visit to a house that was once used to hold slaves, alongside a talk on slavery- and a reminder that it still goes on. 

Wall Of Slavery House

It was very humbling. I'm in complete agreement with John Agard (Dem Tell Me)- we need to be taught history, not British-friendly history. People think we're so much better now, but we're not there yet. We can't face up to the past, and until we can acknowledge that we can't ever really move on. Besides which, slavery isn't even a thing of the past. It still goes on, and that alone is sickening. There are many types of slavery, including human trafficking. Surely we need to do something!?

Where They Kept The 'Bad' Slaves

Sorry, I digree. After the slavery talk, we sat down for fizzy drinks, in glass bottles- much nicer than the English cans. Plus, D25 (around 50p).

Went back on the boats to the van; Samba steered the boat (drove the boat? I don't know which is right). It was sad saying bye to him. Leaving the schools is going to be hell.

From there we went to the Gambian Stone Henge. No, the Gambian stone circles. I refuse to do the British comparative/supremacist thing.

Stone Circles

It was very nice; very big. Daisy was feeling ill and Miss A was looking after her, so Mr B acted as tour guide. According to him, the height of the stones represents the height of the person who died (they're tombstones) whilst the width represents the weight. We're not so sure!

Supposedly Short And Fat (!?)

We all put rocks on top of the stones; you get a wish that way.

Rocks

 Mr B/Mr M were 'arguing' about- something to do with the origin of Islam maybe!? It ended in Mr B attacking first Anju then Mr M. Will got a lot of it on camera as well. Also had a very entertaining conversation about Facebook/teachers/students. Amusing, but it got a little too enlightening.

On the way back to the guest house (two hour drive) we saw a circumcision ritual, involving a circumcision man. It was really funny at first, then he lunged at the van with a machete and everyone screamed. Of course, we were never in any danger, but it was still scary. Will took a video that was mainly of his own face screaming and declaring that 'amazing things' were going on all around us. Very little footage of 'amazing things' however!

Just as we were all laughing, however, we turned to the other side, and saw a line of very young children, queued up- waiting to be circumcised. It wasn't so funny after that; they all looked terrified. Is this tradition really so necessary?

When we got back we had a chance to laze around for a while; Eleanor and I just sat and chatted in our room.

Dinner was really nice- foodwise, it was the same as the night before. I sat near Eleanor, Eloise, Nicole, Will, Miss W and Mr M. We had some interesting discussions. Later on, Mr B came up, and we had a no-holds barred talk about circumcision/sexism.

After a while, people got up and we all re-gathered in the living room. Hannah started writing a section for the blog but it was eventually decided that I'd type up bits of this diary, which I did.

Got to the end of Friday whilst listening to the general chatter. Then wrote up a few of the quotes, which made the teachers laugh.

Finally, to bed. Going to the school tomorrow!!!
*

Monday 11^th February

Lie-in today; 7:30 wake-up! Breakfast was planned for 8:30, but arrived early, at 8. Thankfully, everyone was ready pretty sharpish anyway. Food was the same as yesterday. We all wore our Gambia tops as well, ready for our first day at Farafenni Upper Basic.

We got into the van and drove to the crossroads in the middle of Farafenni. There, we found a line of school-children waiting to greet us and walk with us to the school. It was really over-whelming, especially when we realised just how far they'd walked just to see us. It was very touching.

The Crossroads

On the way, we were able to speak to some of the students, which was very nice. Then, when we got there, we went to the office and signed in. After a short wait, we went outside, where all of the morning students (the school works in two shifts) and some other children were waiting. They were sat in a group, facing two lines of chairs at the front, which is where we sat, along with some of the FUB staff. Miss A sat at the very front with the principal (Yahyah) and another man.
The Students Waiting

To the side were three drummers; they played us in, and provided music throughout. They were also very funny- they kept playing when people were trying to talk, and refusing to stop until they were given money.

Two Of The Drummers

There was a full 'welcoming programme', which started off with a chance for everyone to dance. The Gambians did a little, then it was our turn! Mr B went first, of course, shortly followed by Miss W.

We all had to get up at some point. I was nervous- after all, there were loads of students, and it's not as if I can dance in any way, shape or form!- but after I'd been up once I was hooked; it was a really free-ing and amazing experience. You just dance in whatever way you like- it was all very exhilarating.

Dancing!

After a lot of dancing, there were opening prayers, then introductions of all the FUB staff, followed by introductions of our group. Then, a lot more dancing, which was great. All the students were fantastic at dancing, and were more than happy to drag us up! One of the girls showed me how to do a little African dancing, which I enjoyed, though am awful at. It really was anything goes- the students were just happy to see us having a go!
Dance Dance Dance

Next there were lots of speeches, all of which were very touching and welcoming. The Drama Club also put on a TIE piece called 'You Reap What You Sow'.

Miss A gave a speech, then there was yet more dancing. Finally the head boy spoke- and the welcoming programme was finished off by (guess what!?) more dancing. Once it had all finished, some of our group went to the toilets, leaving the rest of us to chat to some of the students, which was very nice. Ben got given a necklace.

Lunch was last on our itinerary for the morning. It was cooked by the Domestic Science teachers, and was generally amazing- two courses, complete with a fizzy drink. Part of the meal was fish; I used the 'open mind' theory Mr B taught us the night before (when talking about sexism) and found that I actually enjoyed the fish. There's always a first time for everything!
The meal was really impressive, just like the rest of the celebrations. I'm really overawed; I can't believe how much was done, just for us. It makes me feel quite ashamed of just how little we really did when they came over to Bristol in the summer.

Just before we left, Anju and I were both given letters from to of the Grade 8 girls. They were both really lovely letters, and we decided to use some of our time back at the guest house to reply.

We got back into the van and drove back to the guest house; we weren't due back at the school until 5, and by this time it was far too hot to do anything much. I had a shower (we get so dusty and hot!) then joined everyone in chilling outside. Some people did handwashing. Eleanor and I were going to, then I had to type up some of the blog, so only Eleanor did from our room.

A couple of the boys who live nearby came over and taught us some Mandinka; I also worked on a poem, then just chatted with Anju, Mr M, Miss W and the Mandinkan boys (whose names I don't know).

Eventually, it was time to go back to the school. When we got there, the students were waiting around the sort-of hard court. We played some volleyball; even the non-sporty people got involved- especially Daisy!
 Suddenly Sporty

 We rotated players, so those who weren't playing had the chance to chat and play with the students, their siblings and the other children who had turned up. The whole afternoon school had been given the day off school, just because of us.

Volleyball

 Scoring

All the children were very very keen to take or be in pictures. We now all have a lot of great pictures!
Not At All Camera Shy

He Loved The Camera!

I made a friend called Lambo (I think that's how you spell it!?) who used my camera a lot.
 Lambo
 
Also played a game of catch with Nicole, Eleanor, Miss W and many many small children.
Playing Catch
 
Anju and I had a chance to meet the girls who wrote to us, though I had left the letter I'd written back at the guest house. Kardo, the writer of my letter, gave me a very pretty ring, whilst the other girl- Amie- gave Eleanor a ring and Anju a bracelet.
Kardo And I

 Lots Of People ^.^

One small scare we had was when we noticed a boy up in the tree; we were all very nervous for him, but the students acted as if it was completely normal- they said he was trying to get the baobob fruits, which apparently taste very nice.
He's The Orange Dot

 Bit More Zoom

We left in the early evening, before it got dark. Chilled for a bit back at the guest house, then it was time for dinner, which was uneventful (foodwise, the same as always; I'm loving this food!). The main joke at dinner was Will (typical!) who claims he hasn't flirted with anyone, but who has managed to flirt with nearly the whole group. We were talking about why this was a bad idea, when Mr M overheard us and became very interested, which I found hilarious.

After dinner, we split into our project-groups and organised the stuff for the next day.We ended up playing a lot of games in our group- then everyone went outside and we had some huge mass games, which were hilarious. I love our group!!

Finally, time for bed!
*

Tuesday 12^th February

Normal morning; usual breakfast. Got ready and left the guest house around 9. When we got to the school, we split up into our groups to do project work.

Our group (me, Hannah, Nicole, Daisy, Ben, Lottie, Mr B and Miss A) had Grade 8A- so the top Grade 8 class. Technically, students are meant to start school aged 7 (I think?) and go through all the grades through there; however, many start when their parents can afford it, so the classes have a huge huge age range.

Grade 8A

 There Are A Range Of Dialects Spoken In Gambia; So Lessons Are Taught In English

For our project, the students had to draw around their hands, then fill the fingers in with facts abut themselves. In the palm space, they drew pictures of things that represented Gambia to them. When they were done, we cut the hands out and stuck them on the wall in a tree shape, along with the hands from our paired Cabot tutor- the Gambian hands surpassed the Cabot kids by a looong way; mainly because they actually put the effort in. It looked amazing at the end!! 

One Of The Girls Wrote This On Her Hand Picture ^.^

 

 Grade 8A's Finished Tree

Once we'd finished the tree, we went outside to play games (including a couple we 'practised' the night before) which was really fun.

Under/Over

The Coconut Game

 

More Games

After that, the rest of my group went off to the office for break. However, I had been looking at the other group's tree (equally fantastic!) and got delayed. Luckily, Eloise, Mr M and Miss W were there (the others in their group were also in the office). Eloise and I chatted to the 8B class. WE showed them lots of pictures of Bristol, friends etc. on our iPods, which they really liked. We were soon swarmed!

Grade 8B's Finished Tree

Eventually, we had to join the rest of the group in the office. We stayed in there for quite a while- they gave us cake. There was also a (fairly large) disturbance caused by a huge and quite terrifying bug.

Mr B Spent A Large Part Of The Holiday Holding Random Babies

Next up was a tour of the school, which was really interesting. I didn't know that Music and Drama aren't on the syllabus; just taught in clubs. It's a shame, really- the students we've met would really benefit and shine in such creative subjects.

The Computer Room; These Seemed So Old-Fashioned To Us

Back to the guest house, where we had an excess of time to chat and chill (and eat!). Kate and Miss A ended up haggling over Lottie's Pot Noodle. I felt really ill; probably a reaction to my very strong mango drink, which everyone else thinks looks vile but I think is fantastic. However, I managed to ring Mum very quickly, which was nice. I hadn't had much contact before.

Finally, it was time to go back to the school, for another evening of sport!

I played a little volleyball, then just stayed with the students. Many pictures were taken, mainly by them! Then, I told a group the story of 'The Princess And The Pea'. 

Story Time

 

They Were Trying On Miss W's Hat

Afterwards, Miss W and I took a huge group of students to the side of the field, and tried to play Coconuts (a game we'd played previously). It didn't go so well! We did the Hokey Cokey instead, which was marginally better. Then we split into smaller groups and played more games.

Boom Chick A Boom!

I lead my group in 'Boom Chick A Boom', which they enjoyed; then Mr M and I taught them the Macarena, which I have on film somewhere. They taught Eloise and I how to do some African dancing, which was really funny! We were awful at it, but they kept saying 'You can try'.

Spot Eloise And I!?

Next it was our turn to teach them the YMCA. Finally, I told them the story of 'Snow White' and there was some more African dancing.

Such A Cute Little Girl!

Time to go home after that :( It was such a fantastic day, I really really loved the evening. Miss W said I was amazing with them, and that she was impressed, which was really nice.

Chilled in the guest house, then time for dinner. We often sit in similar groups now; I'm generally with Eleanor, Eloise, Nicole, Anju, Will and Ben.

After dinner we organised the mini-Olympics (and mainly chatted about horror films), had some more chill time and went to bed. Yet another busy day ahead!!!
*

Wednesday 13^th February

Normal morning; breakfast at 8 etc. Then all our donations (and us!) were piled onto the van, ready for a busy morning!

First stop was the military nursery, where we watched the Sports Day. All the children were aged 2-4(ish?). Some of them are connected to the military camp (where the nursery is based) but some are civilians. The nursery itself is huge; there are so many children! Fairly few teachers as well. I was chatting to one of the teachers, who told me that he works half the time as a soldier and half the time as a nursery teacher, though he would like to work in the English army. He said they need a lot of patience with the children, but that it's rewarding.

Military Nursery

 We were divided up into their teams; I was with Ben, Daisy and Miss A. We thought we were with Green team, but we're not sure. The kids were more than happy to cheer for whatever colour they felt like!

Our Team

One girl in our group was particularly cute; Miss A was very pleased that the girl had 'chosen' her as her favourite. However, she then worked her way around Daisy, Ben and I- and when she moved on to the next person, she'd look behind at the person she'd just left. Very cheeky!
The Cheeky Little Monkey

 They All Loved The Cameras!
 
 Sack Race- This Was Adorable
 
At the end of Sports Day, we had a 'teachers race', which we all joined in with. I came last, but no-one noticed, which was good for me or I'd have been teased mercilessly about it!

It was hard saying bye to the kids :( A couple of the (male) older teachers wanted me to keep in contact, which was a bit awkward.

The second stop on our list was Mae's Nursery. Before we went in, we rad the rules listed on the outside. Some of them seem a little superfluous- especially the ones pertaining to older children, when it's a nursery school! They also had a couple of slightly funny rules...
We Think Number 13 Is Misspelt- But No Tying Kanye West To Your Uniform!

Green Tea Rules

We had a tour, then did some singing with a few of the classes.
One Of The Classes

Classroom Displays

We also took them outside to play games. I ended up in a game of Pat-A-Cake with around six or seven children.

Again, it was really sad leaving the school. It's a shame we couldn't spend any longer; you have just enough time to start seeing glimpses of personalities, then you have to go again, onto the next group. I really hope all the children we met are okay in the future, and I wish there was more I could do to ensure that. They're so so happy, all of them, you forget that you're in a place where people are starving and can be unable to make a living.

This message was further reinforced on our third stop, at the hospital, where we left most of our donations. We were allowed to look in a couple of the kids wards, and hand out some of the items. One of the babies we saw was a tiny baby, only a few months old, sleeping next to her grand-mother; her mother had died in childbirth and we were told later that her father was unlikely to be around so much. The whole hospital trip was incredibly moving.
Hospital Courtyard

The last stop was happier, however. We went to the fire station- which is twinned with the Avon fire service, meaning that all of the fire engines were once used around Avon! Very surreal, but good. We got to sit in one of the fire engines and they put the blues and twos on ^.^ Miss A also had fun ringing the bell, which caused several fire-fighters to come rushing out, convinced there really was a fire!
It's Literally Just One Fairly Open Building

 Avon And Farafenni
 
 Inside The Fire Engine!

Fire Engine

Shop stop, then back to the guest house. Lunch here consists of what we can get in the shop- so largely just crisps, biscuits and fizzy drinks. I did get some cornflakes, but I've not eaten much, as they're not so nice. Other people have been eating noodles; I have four packets, but can't bring myself to cook them (too much effort!) or eat something hot (I'm overheated enough as it is!).

Spent the chill time relaxing and snacking. I also did some clothes washing whilst chatting to Miss W. Now we're all sat in the lounge. Going to the 'Culture Show' at the school in a bit. Everyone was fairly grumpy earlier, but the break's helped, and people are happier. Except we've just found a fairly large preying mantis on the the curtain to go outside (I had an encounter with it last night as well).
Preying Mantis (Nicole Asked If It Prays)
 

(LATER)

Went to the school for a 'Culture Show', put on by the students of the school. When we got there, we fond that they'd set up seats for us in the best spot (very shady!). The students, parents, children etc. stood (or sat on floor) elsewhere, so that we were all gathered around the hard court.
Starting To Gather

A Little Later On

First in the programme was a sort-of courting dance, which was quite interesting. Then we were shown representations of the marriage rituals of the three main Gambian tribes (Fula, Wolof and Mandinka). They were similar in parts- for example, each ritual involves covering the brides face- but some were very different. 
Wolof Wedding Drummers (Including Kardo And Amie)

Fula Wedding

The Mandinkan wedding had seven brides and one groom, which we've been told is very typical! The more brides you have, the richer you have to be- so it's a status symbol. Things are so different here!
Mandinkan Wedding- The Girls Sat Down Are All Brides

Interestingly, we couldn't see the whole Wolof ritual- they said it went against tradition, and that if we watched the whole thing it would mean that the actors were married!

There was some great music to accompany the ceremonies; I recorded a bit purely for that. After the Mandinka ritual there was also lots of dancing.
The Kora Being Played

One Of The Dancers; Check Out Her Jewellery!

Throughout the day, Miss A had said that there was likely to be a circumcision man, which scared everyone- though Will overheard her saying to one of the other teachers that she doubted it and was only saying it to scare us. However, she was wrong (and right in her joke!).

There was a show involving two circumsicion men along with a man dressed up as a tree. Well, all of them looked like trees, to be honest. There was no actual circumcision involved, just the two men running around with (hopefully blunt!!) machetes, and the tree man dancing, occasionally in Miss A's face.
Circumcision Man

 Tree Guy Dancing With Mr M

Knowing that there was no actual circumcision involved made watching that part of the programme a lot better; it's just funny then, and you know no-one's going to be hurt. Everyone knows they're not in danger, but they all have to play along and run away and scream etc.

Next there was some singing, then a dance-off that became a free-for-all on the dancefloor. Good times!!! Eventually it was time to go, though getting out was difficult- we lost Anju, then when we found her we couldn't find Mr B or Mr M. It took ages to get everyone together! 
One Of The Dancers- People Kept Giving Her Stuff, But She Gave It All Back At The End

 Dance Off!

Back to the guest house for dinner. I told Miss W the story of 'The Princess And The Pea', which she hadn't heard before. We also all chose a picture to upload to the school blog- mine was the one of most of the group in the pool on the first day. I like it because everyone in it is looking at the camera and smiling, which is unusual in a group picture!

Rang mum, and had a chance to speak to Dad and Roo as well. Got a bit of bad news as cousin is ill, but everything else alright. Also rang Ruth and Mollie, but Mollie was out, so I just passed on a message to say happy birthday.

More chill time, mini-Olympics planning and to bed. I can't believe how much we're doing each day. I swear time goes slower in Gambia!
*

Thursday 14^th February

Normal morning! It's interesting how quickly we've all established and adapted to the routine!

Went to the school for our 'Mini-Olympics' project. We worked with the same classes- Grade 8 A and B.

We divided each class up into six groups (so we had Grade 8A 1-6 and Grade 8B 1-6) then paired these groups up to make six big groups, consisting of students from the two classes. They then did a round robin of activities, with A and B competing against each other in each group. The winning side for each group earned a point for their team, and the team with the most points at the end won overall, if that makes any sense?

There were six activities, each lead by a Cabot pair, with the teachers generally supervising. Ben and I were paired and in charge of the standing jump. We had 15 minutes with each group, so we got them to do one individual jump, then two where they had to say facts about them before they jumped. Finally, we got each group to see how far they could get as a team (A jumping, then B jumping from where A got to and so on and so forth).

Standing Jump Action Shot

Grade 8B won overall, though it was very close. They all got a plastic medal and a sweet each- they were very very pleased with both!

Winning Team

 Medals!

 

After a short break, we looked around some classes in small groups- I was with Miss W, Eleanor and Anju. We sat in French then English.

French was awful- the teacher spent ages trying to get them to work out a word, then never actually explained it. Plus, in the middle, a girl came in and started yelling at someone, and just walked off without a sanction. Very weird!

However, English was much better- great lesson! Interestingly enough, the teacher who took it was one of the teachers who was given a very loud cheer during the introductions at the welcoming ceremony.

Back to guest house, with a shop stop on the way. Everyone very hot and tired. We just sat around in the lounge and chilled. Eventually, people got bored and- I can't remember how!- decided to probe me. I tried to avoid awkward questions by putting a towel over my head, but there was still a small and slightly Germanic revelation that the others in the room found amusing. Especially Miss A, who suddenly remembered the apple earstuds.

Went to sports stadium to watch the FUB sports day. We divided up into teams (picked out of a hat at break). I was in blue team with Will, Nicole and Miss W. It was really really hot; it was impossible to sit down without putting something between yourself and the stone seats!

The Stadium

 Blue Flag!

 Cabot Reps For Blue Team

 

We watched the races, but also spent time chatting- Nicole, Will and I had some really interesting conversations. Will made a friend called Carter (we don't know what his real name is). Lambo also turned up; he quite likes us.

A lot of the people racing (especially the girls) would get to the end and faint straight away, meaning that they had to be stretchered off, which was a little worrying. However, they'd soon be back up and ready to race again! Will also raced; he was very far behind, but we agreed he did well in just finishing. It was so hot!

Will's The Speck At The Back...

At the end they got most of our group to play Musical Chairs. Miss A won, but only by pushing Mr B off. She was awarded a medal (which she wore constantly for the rest of the trip). Then things got a bit manic so we left.

Musical Chairs

 Sunset

 

 Gambia's Beautiful

 

We had dinner, then did a song rehearsal, lead by our dictator Mr B. We're performing 'With A Little Help From My Friends' for the leaving assembly. However, the lyrics have been changed- 'getting high' is very illegal here, so we're 'getting by' twice.

More chill time, then bed!
*

Friday 15^th February

Spent the morning cooking with Grade 8 A and B which was pleasant, though very smoky. They have no self-raising flour, so the mixture has to be mixed for an hour to get enough air in for it to rise. The students got to choose between woodwork or domestic science, so the class was all female. Nearly all female. Lambo was the only boy. What a surprise! He was in my group as well... Swear he's secretly our stalker.

My Cooking Group

Whilst the cakes were cooking, we went to the assembly, where we were all congratulated on the game of musical chairs. Then we went back to the domestic science class, and we all had some of the delicious cake. It was great, and very filling!

Cooking Cake

 There's Cake In There ^.^

There were a few teachers for domestic science; one of them had her baby with her. There's such a different attitude here- it's completely normal for the baby to go to work with her mum!

Miss W And The Baby

Went to the market for a bit, where Miss A bought prizes for tomorrow's quiz. I really enjoyed looking around the market, though I didn't buy anything. We weren't allowed to take many pictures- one man threatened to charge Eleanor D100 unless she deleted one she'd taken! (She deleted it, but he didn't realise she'd actually taken two...) 

Fabric Shop

Aladdin's Cavern

Took midday break back at the guest house. Very chilled, though tensions a little high at points. I thought I'd lost my phone, but thankfully it turned up in the lounge area.

Got ready and went to the school for football; Cabot versus the FUB girls team.

Go Cabot!

 

 Apparently, We Won On Penalties

Miss W and I spent the whole game as 'subs', which involved lots of chatting and looking away when they called people up to swap them in. We also spent some time with the younger students, which was nice.

Wearing Daisy's Glasses

After the game we went to have tea with Gambian families! We were put into three groups, and each was assigned a group belonging to a different tribe. I was with Eleanor, Will, Ben, Miss W and Mr M- we went to the house of a Mandinkan tribe.

Ida, Our Student Host

We had a really really great evening; the (huuge) family was incredibly welcoming and we all learnt a lot. The family was very confusing, however; many people- aunts, uncles, cousins, etc.- live in one compound, and I think there were some family friends as well. I was talking to Ida, our host, about her parents living in Banjul: she's looked after by her brother's wife. As we'd met her brother's wife, I said 'Oh yes, Ida'; to which she replied 'No, my brother's other wife'. So yes, very Mandinkan!

I think we were all quite surprised by the house; the family was obviously well-off, as they had lots of phones, wifi, flatscreen TV etc.!

The House

We had our dinner in a different room. It was soo good- a combination of things including chicken yassa, bennechin and a sort of mashed potato/egg. I've eaten waay too much this holiday, but it's hard to resist when the food's this good!

After dinner we chatted more with the family, which was nice. Then we walked back in the dark; some parts were nearly pitch black, so the starts were very visible. It was all so beautiful.

Only bad bit was when one of the neighbours proposed to Eleanor, then hinted at a visa to myself. Thankfully, Mr M saved the day by changing the conversation!

Home and had a short discussion about our evenings; everyone had equally fab experiences!
*

Saturday 16^th February

Lie in! Got up at 7:30, with breakfast scheduled for 8:30, though it came at 8. Then, got ready and went to the school, stopping at the paint shop on the way. Once we got there, we prepared and sketched our mural on the wall, ready to paint!

The Wall Beforehand

 We Were Allowed A Picture On Top Of The Van ^.^

Many of the students had turned up at the school, ready for our leaving ceremony. It was very similar to the welcoming ceremony- lots of dancing and speeches! They dedicated a few birthday songs to Nicole as well (sixteen on Monday). Everyone in our group was given a necklace; and, of course, there were many chances to get up and dance!

Waiting To Start

After the ceremony, we had a chance to say goodbye, which was very sad. We've got so close to the students, it's really hard to think we might never see them again. All of us took a lot of final pictures, and gathered email addresses. I hope they all go far in life, they're all 100% amazing.

Ida Turned Up, Wearing The Top We Gave Her As A Present For Hosting Us

 Guess Who?!

Yet More Pictures!

Carried on painting- we got the whole base coat finished, then went back to the guest house for lunch. Miss W and I bought a tin of pineapple at the shop, so we had some of that each, and the rest is saved for the morning. Also, Will has found a new way of raising money- he's getting people to pay him for doing small jobs, such as cooking their noodles for them. However, Ben was less than impressed when the only bowl Will could find looked like one you'd feed goats out of!

In the afternoon we went back to paint: we got most of the base done. Yay! Had a small scare on the way back when the van didn't start, during which I had fun using the night mode on the video camera (it was my day to use it, which I've enjoyed!). Thankfully, the van started again after being hit with a hammer.

Near The End Of The Day

 Lots Of Paint

 

After dinner, we did a quiz in our room groups. Eleanor and I called our team 'Guess What!?' after my uber-cool catchphrase. There were four rounds, each given by a different teacher: General Knowledge (Miss W); Films, Books, TV (Mr M); Gambia Knowledge (Miss A) and Music (Mr B). Eleanor and I thought we did really badly, but we still came second ^.^ Only downside was that we each won a hideous belt- as Miss A said, it wasn't a prize for doing well but a punishment for not coming first. We tried to lose them, but we've been forced to wear them tomorrow.

Daisy and Florrie came first- they won the all-coveted prize of plastic teapots- whilst Will and Ben (team name- 'The Flowerpot Men') came third, winning two grotesque dolls.

Dolls...

It was meant to be bedtime straight after that, but then someone realised it was earlier than we thought, so we stayed up a bit longer. No-one mentioned the time, so it ended up being a lot longer!

Last day in Farafenni tomorrow :(
*

Sunday 17^th February

Much confusion this morning as someone (Mr B!!) didn't do a wake-up call and acted innocent when the lack of call was mentioned. Luckily, everyone woke up naturally around the right time. Eleanor and I also used it to our advantage- we were up earlier than everyone else, so we had showers without having to queue/rush, then did some hand-washing outside whilst it was cool.

Breakfast was usual- Miss W and I also finished off the pineapple. It was a good buy, it was nice having fruit that's not orange/banana, nice as that fruit (served after dinner) has been.

Went to the market. The 'car park' consisted of mainly donkeys and horses. Shortly after we'd plunged into the bustle (!!) Lianbowe (Lambo) turned up. What a surprise!

People bought a variety of things, though largely fabric and jewellery. I got a few presents for people, but not many- most of us are holding out for the specialised market day next week.

The market was really nice, as always there was so much colour! The only downside was that Florrie had her purse stolen, but Morro (supposedly aided by Mr B) got it back again. Also, we couldn't take pictures as many of the sellers were from Senegal, where having a photo taken means losing your soul.

Went back to the guest house for midday break; the teachers took over the normal lounge, so we set up camp in the other one, which is just down the passage. I'm really going to miss our communal living.

The Other Lounge

At 2, we went back to the school. We spent over 5 hours painting the mural- even the van got involved! (The teachers stood on the top to paint the high bits; we weren't allowed to go up, though we got pictures yesterday). During the time, I also taught a huge bunch of small kids a version of the tickle monster. Plus Yahyah (the principal) let us have some Gambian food, which was very nice.

Part Of The Tickle Monster Group

Awww

Once done, the mural looked amazing (if I do say so myself!). I'm so proud of our group.It has our names on too, which is super cool!!

Finished Mural ^.^

 Everyone's Names

 

Lots more pics, then shop stop. We saw Dam Barry, who is very friendly with Anju, so there was lots of teasing.

:P

Back to guest house. Last night :( All had much packing to do after dinner. Also rang home, which was nice.

Ben and Will used their packing time to do a small experiment in doll decapitation. Everyone (especially Nicole) keeps finding pieces of doll everywhere, though Mr B found the bits the boys were planning to leave in the drawer in their room.

Eleanor and I wrote the blog. Then, we were all allowed to wait up for a bit to watch the 'amazing' Spanish soap opera (think- people in underwear and high heels rolling their eyes every two minutes and a very orange, very hairy man turning out to be the main character's grandfather).

Bed. Another long journey to go :(

 *

Monday 18^th February

Got up 'stupidly, idiotically' early and finished packing. Also yelled HAPPY BIRTHDAY to Nicole- 16 today! Put suitcases etc. on van, then had breakfast. Last one in Farafenni :( Going to miss these amazing breakfasts!

Got into van. On way, gave all donations to the hospital: mainly bottles. Then drove out of Farafenni, very sad :'(

The Bottles Eleanor And I Have Collected

Drove for about 2 hours, then went on very bumpy track to get to Juffre- home of 'Roots' and infamous for the slave trade. Once we got there, we put food orders in and used the toilets. They had soap, which everyone exclaimed about. We're all really enjoying the small luxuries now!

Statue At Juffre

Had talk on slave trade, then went in boat to James Island. Due to the tides, it's 'sinking' and getting smaller, which is a pity as there's so much history attached to it; if not nice history, it's an important reminder of all that's happened. The slaves were kept on the island and could only escape by swimming a long way to the mainland. Most couldn't swim, so very few (if any) escaped. In contrast, a high percentage died on the island.

Juffre

 James Island In Distance

 Wearing Our Life Jackets!

 

Looking around the island was quite emotional. It's such a horrific part of history; I can't believe people actually thought they had the rights to treat others in such awful ways. One room we saw was almost an underground dungeon, with one tiny window. The slaves would be kept there for two weeks, jammed in like sardines, with no release at any time and little food/water. How could anyone ever see that as being right!?

The Island

 Slaves Would Be Kept Here For Two Weeks

After the boat trip back, we had lunch at the restaurant. Eleanor and I both had chicken yassa, which was lovely. Spiced but not spicy as such; a Gambian favourite.

 One Of My Absolute Favourite Pictures

He's A Non-Swimmer, But Wanted To Be Cool Instead Of Safe

Short but very funny moment where a stall-owner persuaded Nicole to confess her love for Will in exchange for a necklace.

Next- and last- was a trip to the museum. Again, really shocking. We also went inside a replica shop (of sorts) and saw for ourselves just how awful the conditions were. So cramped! We've been taught a bit abut the slave trade, but it really doesn't sink in until an experience such as the Roots trip.

How The Slaves Would Be Kept

The Ship We Looked Around

After, it was back on the bus- and back up the bumpy bumpy road. I saw a monkey.

It didn't take long to get to the ferry port, but we had a long wait once there. We went to an upstairs restaurant. Anju, Will, Ben, Nicole, Eloise, Eleanor and I sat on a table together and played a few games- Word Associations, Snog/Marry/Avoid and the like. Spent maybe 1-2 (very long) hours up there, then went downstairs.

Sat in a big waiting room in the same group as before. Chatted a lot- we now all know Will's top 5 celebrities over and under 30. At one point we were also a bit alarmed as there was a huge rumble; it sounded as if the whole building was going to fall down! However, none of the Gambians seemed to even notice it- just us tubabs.

Eventually Anju and I played a very long game of 'Top 5s', which passed the time very well. I think we were in the waiting room for a couple of hours overall, but I lost track of time very quickly.

Sat in van for a while, then we finally started moving. However, as we moved into the ferry queue there was a bit of road rage. IT got a little scary, especially when a car thought the best way to get s to move was by attempting to drive through the van. It stopped when we all screamed.

Once we were in the queue, some people went to the ferry port, but most of the people I'd been sat with earlier, and a couple of others, stayed with the van. There was the possibility of a 2 hour wait, so we settled in for a loong 'rest'. Eleanor, Daisy and Anju started watching Hot Fuzz on Ben's iPad; I watched a little, but soon got bored.

Ended up getting Mr B to tell us his 'life stories', which he tells pretty much constantly anyway. Admittedly, they were slightly annoying at first, but they've grown on me! However, the whole group has delighted in pointing out to him that they nearly always feature a different girl who is described as 'the most beautiful girl in the world'.

Will was reading an Empire magazine, which had some pictures of various women, including a very nice French actress. Possibly wearing a fairly revealing dress. Oddly enough, the four Cabot males all found time to look at this page. I may or may not have done likewise.

Eleanor then pointed out my hypocriticalness (ah well!) and decided that it was a men's magazine, so would obviously have 'far too many' unrealistic pictures of women. At this point, I got out my Company magazine and went through pointing out each and every unrealistic picture of a woman, just to prove a point. The people at the back of the bus then got hold of the Company magazine, and started giggling over the rude bits (yes, this group included Miss A and Miss W!).

There were two ferries, so we ended up getting on one with less than a two hour wait!! Woo!! We all cheered again. I spent the journey stood near the front with Will, Mr B, Mr M and Miss A (for a bit). We had a very entertaining discussion involving Mr B's life stories and various Cabot teachers. Miss A decided that we were all being far too inappropriate but neither other teacher cared. It was very funny.

Titanic...

 Banjul Skyline: I'll Say It Again, Gambia Is Beautiful

I'm missing George and Joe quite a bit; I think one of the hardest parts for me has been being part of a very female group. I rely a lot on spending time in a mixed or largely male group; just part of being me. Anyway, it was nice to chat to Will/Mr M/Mr B.

Back on the van. Thankfully the journey from the ferry to the Holiday Beach Club is significantly shorter than the Farafenni/ferry journey! Eleanor and I listened to music on my iPod whilst Will flicked through my iPod pictures- namely the folder containing various actresses. He basically just rated each picture. I'm glad I've got to know Will a bit better; I didn't have the greatest impression of him before (and he knows it!), but that's definitely changed now.

Once back at the Beach Club, we took our suitcases to our rooms and had five minutes to get ready and went out for dinner- it was fairly late by this time. I wasn't feeling great, but thankfully that soon passed.

We went to a pizza place. They rearranged loads of chairs, tables and people (!!) to get us all seated. I was near Eloise, Nicole, Anju, Eleanor, Mr B, Miss W and Mr M, which meant there were some fairly interesting talks. Mr B popped out and got Nicole a present and card as well, so we all had to sign it without her seeing.

After the drinks arrived but before the food, we ended up moving outside- which involved another huge rearrangement! We spilt drinks on two table cloths as well; the staff/other diners must really have hated us!

Sat in similar places; I spent most time chatting to Anju, Eleanor and Mr B, which was funny and interesting. Food was great, but mine took ages to come- just a (small) chicken pizza as well! At the end we sang Happy Birthday to Nicole. The doll also made an appearance in it's dismembered state.

Dolls Legs...

Shop stop. Things here a lot more expensive than Farafenni! Got lunch and breakfast for tomorrow (safari day).

Back to beach club; late night, so very tired.

 *

Tuesday 19^th February

Safari day!!

Reaaally early start (again). Out by van for 7, so breakfast (oat biscuits and chocolate bar; healthy as ever) eaten on van. Everyone very tired so quiet journey to start with.

Got to ferry port. Left van behind and went on as foot passengers, which made things much quicker! Ferry trip uneventful; everyone still quiet. Will and I listened to my iPod and I updated the diary.

More Boats

 

 After the ferry, we hired jeeps, which was quite cool. Wish we could travel like that all the time! We went on in our boat groups as well, qui est superbe.

My orange juice leaked all over my bag again, which annoyed me and I was in a mood for a while; not particularly about that, just about being near the end of our trip and having to go back and everything like that. Thankfully, my bag was quick to dry and I soon cheered up.

The Jeep trip was great! Bouncing over rough terrain, sun in the sky, wind rushing through your hair- what's not to love!?

Jeeps!! (And One Big Camera)

Stopped at Senegal/Gambia border- passport time! (Though they didn't actually check our pictures or even count the number in the Jeeps, which was a bit weird). Whilst we were stopped, we were 'hassled' by the street-sellers and beggars, which was hard. We're not allowed to buy anything, but they're very persistent. You just want to give them everything.

The beggars are worse; little children who ask for innocuous things such as pens and biscuits. There seems no harm in giving them things like that, but we're still not allowed, as it teaches them that begging works, which is negative long-term. We all know that, but it doesn't make it any easier.

Off again to the safari place. We stayed in the same groups, same Jeeps. Over the course of the safari we saw giraffes, zebras, warthogs and two types of antelope.

We saw the warthogs and antelope first, causing Miss W and I to entertain our group with a variety of Lion King songs, which no-one else seemed to be particularly enthused about.

Amazingly Graceful For Their Size

Warthogs!

 When I Was A Young Warthog...

Next we saw the giraffes. Saw them from a distance at first, then managed to get closer and closer. They were so so lovely!! (I got laughed at for a small comment involving the size of their necks, however).

 Such Long Necks

They Posed For Us

Then- zebras! I thought they looked like they were made from foam, but no-one else agreed. Again, an amazing experience.

Look!

Cue Debate On Black With White Stripes Or White With Black Stripes

Unfortunately, no rhinos or hyenas :( According to the tour guides, they'd escaped earlier that morning. What a coincidence!? On the upside, we saw loads and loads of butterflies which would fly up when someone walked past, then settle back down again. Everyone also exclaimed over the toilets; we really are appreciating the smaller things.

Flutterbies

Back in the Jeep. I so so want to travel like this permanently. Impractical in Bristol though, I guess. Oh well, looks like I'll have to live in Africa!

Stopped at the border again. This time we met a beggar who looked around Roo's age, which I found quite hard. Also a nut-seller who doesn't go to school because the little she makes is required for her family. This is all so hard.

Back on the ferry; very busy. We saw cattle being transported, at which point I gave up red meat. Mr B was also propositioned by a French woman- we think he learnt a lesson in trying out his French!

The Cattle :(

Then in van back to hotel. We had time to change etc., then people got in the pool. Unfortunately, norethisterone still hasn't kicked in (piss-take!!) so I sat on side with Anju.

Monkeys At The Hotel

One by one people left, so it was just me, Anju and Miss W (who was asleep/listening to music). Anju and I played the Top 5 game; we've really taken to this! Ended up with 'Top 5 Worst Memories', which only I did. We had a very deep conversation.

Anju, Eleanor, Miss W, Mr B, Mr M and I went down to the beach, which was really nice. We ran along the sea, it was so good!

Changed and went out for dinner. Shop stop- I bought a Mandinka/Wolof dictionary, which was promptly nicked by- well, everyone. Wish I'd found this at the beginning of the holiday!! We think it was probably written by a man- it has phrases such as 'you have long legs' and 'you are very beautiful'.
Dinner was great. Sat with Anju, Daisy, Eleanor, Miss W, Mr B and Mr M. So funny! Daisy was cold, and ended up being 'dressed' in napkins by Mr B and Mr M. I also used my dictionary to great effect; various people have now said things under pretence of saying something else.

Daisy, Eleanor, Anju and I ended up discussing/gossiping about various people, which Mr M, Mr B and Miss W were half interested and half 'disgusted/bored' by. Daisy and I confused the others by our ability to talk using limited words; however, this failed at one point where Miss W worked out what I'd just mouthed at Daisy (pertaining to Becki's interests in Physics). That was pretty amusing.

Walked back to hotel along the beach, which was incredibly beautiful. The moon and stars are so bright here! I've said it so many times, but it's beautiful here: breath-takingly, movingly beautiful.

Finally, to bed.

 *

Wednesday 20^th February

Last full day in The Gambia. I'm really really not looking forward to going back!

Had a bit of a lie-in, then got ready and went down for breakfast. Nice but very minimalistic after the Farafenni breakfasts!

Went out the first market, which was very big, though many of the stalls were similar if not the same. The sales-people were also very keen to sell. Scarily so, in fact. I think we all experienced having to run away once or twice!

Loads And Loads Of Colours ^.^

Bought last few presents: bracelets, mask, giraffe, crocodile magnets, dress. Also a dress for myself and feel in love with the bangles: got 4 and was given 1. Everyone got a lot of stuff we didn't really need, but it was all so nice and (with haggling) well-priced!

I Now Own The Black/Yellow Stripy Dress; Eloise Got The Grey One Next To It

Florrie got some 'lovely' wall hangings, which are true works of tat!

Mr B And Florrie's Wall Hanging (No, She Doesn't Have A Husband)

After we'd all spent far too much, we went on to the wood carving market. I bought a few more bracelets, then Eloise and I sat in the middle and had a nice chat.

We all sat on the van to wait for the last people- during which we were all tempted by the drums. Mr M had got one, and was playing it; within a few minutes, we all had one!

The Big One Cost D100 (£1) And The Little One D150 (£3)- Nicole Was Not Happy!

 

Back to the hotel. Down to the bar/restaurant for lunch. I sat with Anju, Hannah and Eleanor. Once again, the food took aages. However, it was lovely- I had a chicken baguette which came with the typical Gambian fried, spiced (but not spicy) onions. Going to really miss the amazing food :(

After lunch, we had free time. Eleanor slept in the room; I sat by the pool (once again, unable to swim). Eloise, Nicole, Mr B, Will, Miss W, Miss A, Mr M and Ben were all swimming/playing (some sort of) volleyball, so I watched them as well.

Eventually, we went back to our rooms to get ready to go our again. I had a 'feel-good' shower.

Walked to market. We'd divided into three groups at lunch, and each was responsible for purchasing a present for a different person out of Morro, Lamin and Miss A. So, at the craft market, we had to get the presents. Our group (Hannah, Anju, Eleanor and I- we worked in our lunch table groups) had Miss A; we got her a new (African!) outfit for Wally, her toy monkey. I also bought a really nice scarf, which took a lot of haggling and a man who tickled me under the chin. After I paid (D150- £3- he wanted D600, I wanted D600; I have a 'different' way of haggling where I refuse to go up, but just state the price and see how close I can get it), he gave me a necklace, asked me to visit him and asked for my email address. At which point, I 'needed to get a pen and paper'. Sometimes, false pretences are the only way to escape!

The Lamin group were waiting for their engraved bird ('Thank You Lamin') so we waited with them. I got into a discussion with a man with pigtails, wherein we both quotes and sang Bob Marley.

Pigtail Guy!

We went to find the Morro group, but they still hadn't chosen. They eventually went for an engraved Arsenal plaque (Morro's favourite team), which meant that the Miss A and Lamin groups had to wait aages by the gate.

The cutest little girl came and sat by us, so we all cooed over her. She pretended to pour cream out of a leaf and rubbed it into my left arm. Admittedly, lump in throat moment. Innocent kids are the sweetest.

Also, a woman spoke French to us. I had a very basic conversation with her and mispronounced half of it, which made the others laugh.

As soon as the Morro group got back, we went to the ice cream parlour! I had a raspberry scoop (very much like a sorbet) complete with coconut shavings, chocolate sprinkles and chocolate sauce (the toppings were free). A little odd but nice!

From there we walked back along the beach again, which was very nice- I had a really entertaining conversation with Anju and Eleanor.

Back at the hotel it was time to pack up. We also all got ready for 'The Last Dinner'- everyone wore their nicest stuff. I got to wear my new (African!) dress, which I was pleased about. Eloise had got a similar one, so she wore hers. Everyone looked really nice.

All Dressed Up

Went to the Kora (restaurant we went to on the second night). I sat at one end, near Eloise, Nicole, Anju, Eleanor, Will and Ben. Dinner was very nice! I had chicken escalope, which I enjoyed.

The Last Dinner :(

After dinner, Miss A did a mini speech and we all got presents, complete with a funny reason: everyone received a necklace, a bracelet and a beaded crocodile (including the boys). We also gave the gifts we'd bought, which were all liked.

Also, Mr B, Mr M and Miss W got a 'No Evil' monkey each. Predictably, Mr B was 'Speak No', which was quite funny.

After we'd eaten we went to Ali Baba's (the place we ate at on the first night) for a little dancing and some 'special couple watching'. It started off kind of odd; there were old people dancing, and it was all just a bit embarrassing. After a while, however, we all decided to get up and dance, which was vaguely fun but mainly awkward, especially as a couple of the Gambian men attempted to be a little touchy-feely. The best part was when there was a power cut: everyone cheered and the stars/moon were really really bright.

After, we went on to a nightclub called Aquarius, which was pretty much dead until we walked in. We ended up dancing (and jumping) for what felt like ages. It was a little surreal, but so so fun!!

Finally, home and to be. Very very late night!!

 *

Thursday 21^st February

Goodbye to Gambia day :'(

Got up at eight-ish, with achy legs from dancing the night before! I spent some time out on the balcony on my own, just thinking over the trip and enjoying being in Gambia. Also took some pictures of monkeys!

View From Our Balcony Again

Going To Miss These

 Eleanor and I got ready, finished packing etc., then joined Eloise and Nicole for breakfast. Again, felt minimalistic after Farafenni!

After breakfast, Eleanor and I went to the ping pong area with Will, Ben, Mr M and Mr B. Eleanor and I played 2 versus 1 against Mr B, which we won- somehow!!

At 10, we got any leftover donation stuff and said goodbye to Lamin and Morro. Got pictures with both and Lamin had everyone's emails and Facebooks.

Lamin!

 Morro!

It was so sad saying goodbye; going to miss them both a lot!

Back up to room and got suitcases. Everyone assembled in a room near the reception and waited for the coach. Coach journey and airport arrival uneventful, though it took ages to check in. Plane delayed by 45 minutes,

Had lunch- I had a chicken baguette. Realised I've had chicken at least once every day, if not more: yum yum!

Spent a while waiting for the plane, but it passed quicker than I expected. On the way back I was sat by the aisle with Will then Ben. Poor Anju was sat by the window with Mr M and Mr B next to her- I think she found the journey very long!

Sunset Over Morocco

Spent most of the time writing/reading. Wrote up a piece for the school newsletter.

Got back to England! Very very cold, and everyone a little over-tired so either quiet or hyper. Got into mini-bus and drove back. Got to the school around 2am.

Trip officially over: but what a trip.

 Goodbye Gambia :(

Amusing Quotes

Will: Is the plural of duck ducks?

Nicole: I might use tanning moisturiser

Daisy: We're going to Gambia...

Eleanor: Do they play bingo in Wales?

Nicole: What's the difference between Bob Marley and Bob Dylan?

Mr B: You might get asked for a Bob Marley

Eleanor: What's a Bob Marley?

Mr B: Well... He was renowned for many things...

Eleanor/Nicole/Eloise/Duck: Oh.

Mr B: Yeah- and none of us smoke anyway

E/N/E/D: Smoke?

Mr B: Yeah. Oh! You thought I meant something inappropriate!

Mr B: He was overacting

Miss A: A squirrel bit me so I chased it away and put antibacterial on it

Duck: Monkey I want to marry you!

Will: How much is a machete? Not that I'm planning on buying one

Mr B: How about the Time Warp? It's the pelvic- oh, wait...

Miss A: No thrusting!

Will: My name's Will

Miss A: Will! What was the first rule?! Don't give out your name!

Mr B: Go away crisps, you're spoiling my pure pleasure

Miss A: Word associations. Table.

Will: Soft.

Kate: Sarah isn't a sharer

Miss A: Why are you both in there? This is getting indecent! It's illegal here you know!

Mr M: Where's my waller? He must have taken it! The man took it!

Mr B: You're right, he must have taken it

Mr M: Oh. You've got it.

Mr B: Oh my God, I was about to say, 'let me just get my nuts out'!

Mr B: And these belonged to fat dwarves

Mr B: No more filming. I'll lose my job!

Will: The profile picture's someone wearing a mask

(Mr M pulls face)

Us: Oh, guess it was you then!

Me: It's a light! It's a light! Oh, it's a torch...

Nicole: If you think it tastes like tea, it actually does

Mr B: Sorry, went off on a bit of a feminist rant

Mr M: Yeah, it was boring

Us: Sexist

Mr M: Will's keen to bang

Mr B: No unnecessary banging!

(Much laughter from all)

Miss A: Come on then berries!

Will: Mine and Duck's bitchy sign language

Duck: (As a joke) So, Hitler's last name?

Nicole: (Seriously) That's a good question

Mr B: That was the most sarcastic coconut I've ever seen

Mr B: You play the game by-

Lottie: How do you win?!

Miss A: I don't know Little Direction

Mr B: Don't worry, there'll be no pooing involved

Ellie: Magicool smells like new cars

Nicole: Maybe that's what they spray it with

Daisy: There were several Pippins

Duck: You just ruined my childhood...

Nicole: (to Miss A) Mum?

Nicole: Do preying mantis's pray?

Eloise/Nicole: There were pictures of the Pope topless?

Miss A: Is he hung like a moose?

Miss A: Special couples- middle-aged women and young men

Kate: I want to come here when I'm middle-aged

Will: Wives? Too much stress!

Mr M: He was trying to pimp his sister out to me

Eleanor: He kept proposing

PE Teacher: (to Anju) Indian 2 bob

Hannah: I had a dream where Mr B was holding a baby

Ida: My parents live in Banjul. My brother's wife looks after me.

Me: Oh, Fatou?

Ida: No, my brother's other wife

Mr M: So Will, how will you cope without Nicole?

Will: You can pay me and make me do anything. I sound like a male prostitute.

Florrie: The white cliffs of Dover? I thought they were hills!

Mr M: It's Dam Barry! Anju, where's your ring?

Duck: Guess what?! Nicole!! It's your birthday!

Will: Now Duck points out fit women to me

Will: Duck, you have more pictures of women than some boys I know

Mr M: Does Mr B's story involve another 'most beautiful woman in the world'?

Mr B: I didn't threaten to get my nuts out, I got my nuts out and offered them around

Lamin: Look, it's Dam Barry!

Eleanor: Duck, I stepped in monkey poo...

Duck: Giraffes have very long necks, don't they

Me: (mouthed words)

Miss W: Duck! I saw that!

Mr M: What did she say?

Miss W: Something about her friend looking at (other teacher)... A certain part of (other teacher)...