Local traditions and culture in Senegal

Tea drinking is a national sport over there, they will invite you to come along and drink with them.
In the beginning it’s interesting, but after a few weeks you’ll change your opinion.
Enough is enough. I drank tea enough for the rest of my life.

There are lots and lots of beggars in Senegal, and perhaps the most bothersome part is that parents encourage their children to beg when they see a visitor.
It starts fairly innocently asking for a "cadeux", but can actually turn nasty.
As a nuisance it doesn't beat the touts and shopkeepers in Dakar, though...

In a muslim country, you must expect for their religious ceremonies to be carried out no matter what.
So, if you're taking a long trip in a «rent-a-taxi», you should be patient and allow your driver to make his prayers on his carpet facing Meca.
They will do it, despite being in the middle of the desert under 45'C or in the middle of city traffic...

i'm quite sure this isn't exactly a local custom since giraffes aren't commonly found outside of zoos in senegal, but what the hell is that kid doing to that giraffe!? by the way, if that wasn't scarey enough, this mural is on the side of a school in Dakar!

It's useful to bargain when buying all kind of presents ath the local shops or at markets. Once you bargained and obtained a good price you're supposed to purchase and pay the bargained price or you offend the vendor.

One of the nicest Senegalese music instruments must be the Cora or Kora.
It is used in the surrounding countries too, Mali, Gambia....
The English talking call it Kora, the French talking (like Senegalese) call it Cora.
I am writing this with a capital because out of respect of such a heavenly instrument!
You can call it the African harp.

Children are always happy to see you. I was advised by my guides that in remote villages children appreciate sweets because they rarely get them.

I had the pleasure of enjoying the Senegalese musicians from the tips above.
They played wonderful and the singer had a marvelous voice!
I want to have their CD !!!
:-)