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@gentbynature - astute observation! What I noticed in W. Africa is that where there was a chance to make $, you would find men. Also, men NEVER cook at home, but you will easily find them as restaurant-owners and chefs; rarely so women.

Very interesting. My personal experience of Africa is limited to South Africa, where life is a lot more similar to what we are used to in Europe or the US. I wonder if this dynamic has remained to this day. Have you been there since and if so, has there been any noticeable change?

I haven't returned to W. Africa, @gentbynature. I know that Guinea has gone through a civil war or two since then...and ebola as well, but I haven't kept up with anyone there. Maybe I just want to preserve my memories of how things were! Nowadays, Peace Corps volunteers have cell phone and internet service...and digital cameras! Not really the same experience as the old days for sure.

You're probably right. Some things are best left to memory and it's definitely not a part of the world that has seen any good times in recent years.