2008-2010 Benin Volunteers!

So, it seems like every 3 or 4 days that pass I get a message or email or comment left on my blog by someone new who is also going to be leaving for Benin on July 1st. So, if it is alright with everyone, here is a link to some of the other Benin Blogs for us July 1st people:

http://jessunderafricanskies.blogspot.com/

http://revolutionme.blogspot.com/

http://morganabroad.blogspot.com/

There are also two other girls who will be leaving for Benin as well. If you are reading this, and are also going to Benin, then check-out the facebook group "Peace Corps: I'm being sent to Africa." Also, if for some reason you don't want me to post a link to your blog, just let me know and I can remove it.

Another girl, Laura, did message me who is actually over in Benin right now, and she will be one of the 8 volunteers who will be meeting the new group at the airport when we arrive and helping us for the first 2 weeks of transitioning. If you're also leaving for Benin then email me at EricOSU@gmail.com and I can give you her email as she is willing to answer any questions we may have. I did ask a few questions about packing and here is some good info:

Guys- pack some conservative shorts. Girls -dont bother. Guys in Benin can get away with the cargo shorts around/below the knee and youll be thankful you have them in the heat. My guy postmates wear them all the time and they dont ring any cultural taboos. For girls -you go out in shorts, major faux pas.

Medical supplies took up half of one of my suitcases -wasted space. They give you a medical kit when you get here so dont run out and buy pepto,bandaids, etc... now b/c you get all that in country.
DO get - a couple neosporins, GOOD sunscreen -like SPF 100 cause its HOT:), good bugspray, and anything specific you need medically. Just ask me -ill tell you if you need it. Wear glasses/contacts? Contact solution is totally unavailable and PCVs get it shipped in all the time -bring a few extra bottles and actual contact stuff if you need that.

Umbrella or light rain coat is nice in rainy season which is from June-Sept.

Little teflon nonstick frying pan -just trust me. They dont exist here and if you like to cook, then yes its worth the space in your suitcase. If you hate cooking, then dont worry about it. I curse not having one when I'm cooking eggs or pasta.

It sounds stupid, but bring some crystal light packets or koolaid -anything to put in water for the first few months. Bring just a few comfort things foodwise to help you in the first few weeks as well. Its hard at first to adjust to the food and guys have trouble getting protein. You'll probably think a little bag of your favorite snack is heaven after a few weeks! :)

Sorry if I haven't gotten back to you if you've either left a comment or messaged me via email or facebook, I've been crazy busy with work so I haven't been on too much. But I hope this helps connect us all! Au revoir!