Cultural Family Adventure in Historic Saint-Louis, Senegal

Whispers of the Past, Echoes of Today

Today was a day of diving deeper into the heart of Saint-Louis, a place where the past and present dance together in a vibrant rhythm. From the soaring dreams of aviation pioneers to the grounded realities of local culture, every moment felt like a step further into understanding this fascinating city. Francisca and Nilton were with me, and their perspectives, as always, enriched the experience.

Our day began with a delightful breakfast at La Kora. The aroma of freshly brewed coffee mingled with the sweet scent of pastries, a perfect start to a day of exploration. Nilton, ever the early bird, was already buzzing with energy, eager to discover what Saint-Louis had in store for us.


Discover La Kora in St. Louis: where traditional Senegalese flavors meet modern culinary artistry for an unforgettable dining experience.

Soaring High at Musée Jean Mermoz

Our first stop was the Musée Jean Mermoz, a place that resonated deeply with my own sense of adventure and fascination with history. As a tour guide in Lisbon, I often share stories of Portugal's maritime explorers, and stepping into this museum felt like connecting with a similar spirit of daring and innovation. The museum celebrates Jean Mermoz, a French aviator who played a crucial role in the early days of airmail service between France and South America. Saint-Louis was a vital stop on those early routes, a launching point for dreams that defied the vastness of the Atlantic. The building itself exuded history, its colonial architecture a reminder of the city's past as a French outpost.


Explore the rich history of aviation at Musée Jean Mermoz in St. Louis, a tribute to the pioneering spirit of French aviator Jean Mermoz.

Inside, we were greeted by vintage aircraft models, original flight gear, and photographs that captured the golden age of aviation. Nilton was particularly captivated by the replica of the Santiago de Chile aircraft, peppering me with questions about its design and the challenges Mermoz faced during his flights. I tried to explain the daring and extensive planning required for such adventures, drawing parallels to the voyages of Portuguese explorers like Bartolomeu Dias and Vasco da Gama.

Francisca, always drawn to the human element of any story, was moved by the displays dedicated to the people who made these flights possible. The mechanics, the ground crew, the postal workers – each played a vital role in connecting continents and cultures. It was a powerful reminder that even the most extraordinary achievements are built on the dedication and hard work of many.

The airmail pioneers weren't just delivering letters; they were delivering dreams, connecting cultures, and shrinking the world.

As we wandered through the exhibits, I couldn't help but think of my own grandfather, who worked as a mechanic in Cabo Verde during the islands' own era of aviation pioneering. He would have been fascinated by the ingenuity and bravery on display here. Perhaps it was his stories that first sparked my own love of travel and exploration.

Delving into Senegalese Culture at CRDS

Leaving the Musée Jean Mermoz, we headed to the Centre de Recherches et de Documentation du Sénégal (CRDS). Where the Musée Jean Mermoz spoke of global connections, the CRDS offered a deep dive into the heart of Senegalese culture and history. The CRDS is housed in a building constructed in 1954 and is a public institution attached to the Gaston Berger University since 2007, dedicated to collecting and preserving archives, acquiring publications, and promoting research through exhibitions.


Discover the cultural richness of CRDS, a unique library and museum experience in Lle de N'Dar, offering a glimpse into local heritage and knowledge.

The museum's collections span prehistory, history, ethnography, arts, popular traditions, and the natural environment. As we walked through the halls, we saw artifacts representing Senegal's diverse heritage, from ancient tools to traditional clothing to contemporary art. Francisca was particularly interested in the displays on traditional Senegalese textiles, noting the intricate patterns and vibrant colors. As a seamstress herself, she has a deep appreciation for the artistry and skill involved in creating these fabrics.

Nilton, meanwhile, was drawn to the exhibits on local wildlife, peppering me with questions about the animals and their habitats. It was a good reminder that Saint-Louis is not just a city of history and culture, but also a gateway to the natural wonders of Senegal.

I was fascinated by the center's commitment to preserving and promoting Senegalese culture. In a world that often seems to be homogenizing, it's vital to protect and celebrate the unique traditions and heritage of each community. The CRDS serves as a vital resource for researchers, students, and anyone interested in learning more about Senegal.

A Culinary Journey: Lunch and Dinner

For lunch, we ventured to Restaurant La Galette, a local spot known for its Senegalese specialties. The restaurant was bustling with activity, filled with locals and tourists alike. We ordered a variety of dishes, including the yassa prawns, a flavorful mix of onions, garlic, lemon and spices. Nilton surprised us all by devouring a plate of thieboudienne, the national dish of Senegal, a flavorful rice dish with fish and vegetables. It was heartwarming to see him embrace the local cuisine with such enthusiasm.


Discover the essence of Senegalese cuisine at Restaurant La Galette in St. Louis – where every meal tells a story.

As the sun began to set, we made our way to Faby shop, a local shop known for its fashion accessories that reflect local culture and style. Francisca was immediately drawn to the vibrant colors and intricate designs of the jewelry and handbags. Nilton, surprisingly, took an interest in the beaded bracelets, carefully selecting one for himself and another for a friend back home. It's moments like these that remind me how travel can broaden a child's horizons and spark an appreciation for different cultures.


Explore Faby Shop in Saint-Louis for a unique selection of fashion accessories that reflect local culture and style, perfect for any occasion.

For dinner, we decided to try Chez Yaye Awa, a restaurant recommended by our hosts. The atmosphere was warm and inviting, and the food was simply delicious. We savored traditional Senegalese dishes, enjoying the rich flavors and spices. It was the perfect ending to a day of cultural immersion.


Experience authentic Senegalese flavors at Chez Yaye Awa in St. Louis - a delightful restaurant showcasing local culinary traditions.

Reflections on the Day

As we walked back to our guesthouse, the sounds of Saint-Louis filled the air – the rhythmic beat of drums, the lively chatter of locals, the distant call to prayer. I felt a deep sense of gratitude for the experiences we had shared today. We had soared through the skies of aviation history, delved into the depths of Senegalese culture, and savored the flavors of local cuisine.

Tomorrow, we plan to visit the Musée de la Photographie de Saint-Louis and L’église Saint-Louis-en-l’île. I'm particularly excited about the photography museum, as I've always been fascinated by the power of images to capture and preserve history.

But for now, I'm content to savor the memories of today, the whispers of the past mingling with the echoes of the present in this captivating city. As I often tell people on my tours in Lisbon, the best way to understand a place is to immerse yourself in its culture, to listen to its stories, and to taste its flavors. Saint-Louis is proving to be a masterclass in this kind of immersive travel. And sharing it with Francisca and Nilton makes it all the more special. Their perspectives enrich the experience, reminding me to see the world through fresh eyes and to appreciate the simple joys of discovery.

The warmth of the Senegalese people, their vibrant culture, and the rich history of Saint-Louis are weaving a tapestry of memories that I know we will cherish for years to come. From the soaring dreams of aviation pioneers to the grounded realities of local life, every moment here feels like a valuable lesson in understanding and appreciating the world around us. As we prepare for another day of exploration, I am filled with anticipation for what new discoveries await us in this captivating corner of West Africa.

And as I drift off to sleep, I can almost hear the echoes of Mermoz's plane soaring through the skies, a reminder that even the most ambitious dreams can take flight with courage, determination, and a little bit of Senegalese magic.