Most of you, regardless of where your child's orphanage may be located, will spend some time in Ouagadougou, Burkina's capital city. Bustling and full of colors and sounds, this African capital has a "nice feel to it." I don't believe you will - or should - feel unsafe, badgered, or harassed during your stay. People are generally very friendly and helpful. Of course you should take the same precautions you would on any trip, like leaving valuables at home, not flaunting your wealth, or walking around at night on your own, but the crime rate in Ouaga is very low. You'll feel at home in no time! This is a big city, not the Ends of the Earth and nearly anything you need, you'll be able to buy, so don't be stressed about forgetting to pack something. Take a look at the suggestions in the travel info, and you'll be golden.

Pool area at the Ricardo.

The Travel Info describes Ruth's home in Ouaga, which may or may not be available during your time of travel. If you would like to stay in a similar modest inn, there are some very adequate places frequented by missionaries and volunteer groups. The one in which I've stayed a few times is SIM, and it has individual rooms with bathrooms, a shared kitchen/library, and a walled courtyard. An advantage is that it is located within reasonable walking distance of a shopping road, restaurants, and is in a quiet neighborhood.

 

The Ricardo lobby.

For more of a "vacation feel" to your trip, you might consider one or more nights at a hotel, including the Ricardo or Les Palmiers. Both have swimming pools and have a charming type of ambience. The Palmiers is near the center of town, with restaurants, shops, and street vendors to explore. The hotel has a lovely garden and pool area and the decor is enhanced by Burkinabe masks and other artifacts. The Ricardo is a bit outside of town but has its own restaurant. Not far is a street market of sorts and the owners are a charming Portuguese couple. Walking into the main entry and dining area, you might think you've landed in the midst of an Ernest Hemingway novel. Ruth likes the pool and the WiFi access and I like the animals that roam around the place. It's a one of a kind hotel, to be sure.

    

1. Burkina Faso is about the size of this U.S. State.

What is Colorado?

2. During the dry season, this hot wind blows from the Sahara to Burkina.

What is the harmattan?

3. Burkina is an important source of copper, iron, manganese, and this principle ore export.