I have a dream–to travel all 54 countries in Africa before I turn 40. I am 29 now. I think it's a pretty realistic goal.

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First country on my list was Senegal and not to sound cliché or whatever but it was a beautiful experience. Senegal is well known for its hospitality, vibrant art scene and creative community, delectable cuisines, its dense youthful population, lively market and its rich musical culture. It was amazing to experience this first hand.

You know what they say, a picture is worth more than a thousand words.

• First stop from Leopold Sedar Senghor Airport–The Raddsion Blu Hotel.

• The hotel has a restaurant that serves local Senegalese food. I had the national dish, Thieboudienne while my husband had the Chicken Yassa.

• I visited the Sokhamon Hotel where we were greeted by Simb dancers.

• Sokhamon Hotel is characterized by its expressionist architecture. It seemed like something out of the movies.

• Needless to say, I thoroughly enjoyed Senegalese food.

• I visited Ngor Island. It's one of the islands in Senegal where walking is the main mode of transportation. There is a speedboat that takes you from Dakar to the island.

• Also visited Goree Island which is the location of the House of Slaves–a former trading post for slave trade. It is now used as a tourist destination to show the horrors of the slave trade.

Other activities included

• A plane ride over Dakar,

• A stay at a serene private beach resort in Sal,

• Exploring the arts and crafts market

• A visit to Lac Rose (Pink Lake)–Senegal's 'Dead Sea' where salt is harvested.

• A boat ride to Ile De Sarpant–another picturesque island off the coast of Dakar

I wasn't exaggerating when I said Senegal is beautiful. There is so much more to explore and I only scratched the surface. Hope you enjoyed looking at these.

P.s. I am also open to answer any travel related questions you may have about Dakar.