Mauritania

Jim’s Perspectives:

Where to start? I’m so conflicted about this place because I had such a wonderful time … in this disaster of a country!

Of the 183 countries I’ve visited to date, I think it’s the poorest I’ve visited.

Let’s start with the good:

• The Azalia Marhaba hotel was pretty decent; the best hotel in Nouakchott (New-AK-chot), however some new 5 star hotels are coming.
• My guide couldn’t have been more hospitable
• The tour of the goat and came farms were eventful
• The port du peche (fish market) was awesome

The not-so-good:

• The city is a disaster.  In fairness, Nouk has only been a capital for ~ 60 years, but who did the urban planning in this place?!
• The city has grown so rapidly … the streets are made of mud and sand
• Are their driving lessons or tests in this country?  They suck at it.
• Speaking of driving … have you ever wondered where ALL used Mercedes cars go to die?  It’s Mauritania. Not kidding when I say that 3/4 of the cars on the roads are 1982 vintage Mercedes beater cars.
• Q) What are those large barrels being carried by donkeys?  A) Water
• A full 5/6 of the population has no running water, and many don’t have electricity.
• The trash lining the streets is appalling.  Seriously, the worst in Africa.
• And, c’mon, can’t someone clean up the dead goats and cows stinking up the street? Are there no sanitation standards in this country?
• And, most of the traditional music I heard on the radio sounded worse than the camel grunts at the market. The guitars were cool but the screeching voices were just awful.

The issue of Mauritania and child slavery is of international concern.