After a month of learning French, living with a wonderful host family, and getting used to the humidity in Rosso, I am pleased to report that I know know where I will be stationed in country for the next two years: Chinguetti, an ancient holy city of Islam where I will work with tourism. However, that was not the original plan...
Last Monday we were told our site placements, and then Tuesday morning we were scheduled to take off and visit our sites for a week. I was told I would head to Aioun to work with the mayor on waste management. Aioun is a remote site with gorgeous scenery. I was a bit nervous about the fact that it would take two days to get anywhere else in country, but I was really excited about the work assignment, possible secondary projects, and the rocky cliffs surrounding the area that are ideal for hiking. Even though it is remote, it is a regional capital so it has water, electricity, and internet – all pluses.
However, Monday night/Tuesday morning I was awaken from my mosquito net and told my coordinator had to speak with me. Standing in my boxers I was told that my site had been changed. I was now going to Chinguetti. They always told us we would need to be flexible... I guess this is just proof.
Chinguetti is a pretty city surrounded by picturesque sand dunes and the Sahara. It is farther north, meaning it's hotter but much less humid. Plus, since it is situated on a plateau, there is a cool season when ostensibly it drops below freezing at night. It is arguably the premier tourist destination in Mauritania, but it still very much has a small-town feeling to it. The city that currently stands was founded in 1066 AD, but there are older parts to this city that have been covered in sand over the years.
This should be a great site, but there is no internet access, meaning I will check only check e-mail each time I hope a ride to Atar, the local regional capital. I assume this will be AT LEAST once or twice a month, but we'll see how things work out.
Well, that's it for now. Check back soon for pictures. Drop me an e-mail if you get a chance to let me know how you're doing.
