Hospitalicity
Dakar Hospitalicity!
Twice a year, we delve into the exquisite lifestyle of Africa, exploring its vibrant essence across the continent.
Our journey brings us to Senegal, the « Land of Teranga, » renowned for its unparalleled hospitality, with Dakar as its bustling capital.
This city is rapidly emerging as a pivotal African hub, witnessing a remarkable transformation with luxurious venues, upscale hotels, and opulent villas gracing its landscape, all while the inviting waves attract surfers from around the globe.
On my inaugural evening, I find myself at the charming Boma layout, a boutique hotel that captivates with its outdoor lounge bar and restaurant enveloping the pool, where the vibrant beats of hip hop resonate from the club above i’m drawn into.
As I savor a drink at the bar, my attention is captured by a group of fashionable young women partying at their table.
Stepping outside for a breath of fresh air and to respond to messages, I encounter one of them, busy on her phone while lighting a cigarette.
Engaging her in conversation, we introduce ourselves; she reveals her identity as a dynamic businesswoman.
As we discuss our ventures, KT mentions her cousin Yacine, a talented designer and lifestylist.
We exchange contacts, setting the stage for a future connection; 4 am, time to get a rest. Walking up at 11am, it’s a beautiful day, heading out. As I access the Mamelles beach, a dozen young men and women are pausing on top of big rocks in front of the ocean. It is a photo shoot for a young designer named Mohamed Kane.
The scene and clothing are impressive, the photographer can’t stop shooting while Kane directs and makes sure the models look perfect, directing the shoot. We are exchanging a few words during a pause, and set a meeting in a few days to further introduce him to his brand. Heading back home, I catch up with a friend I met a year ago during my first trip to Dakar — he’s become like a brother since then. Mane is the top music journalist in West Africa.
I play him a few songs from the Westhanvoyz project, a Nigerian duo about to blow up the music scene. He’s pretty impressed, gives some advice, and offers to connect me with local artists for collaborations. Tonight I’m hooking up with my girl Yacine. We are hitting “ Trams” where all party people hang on Thursday.
A 3 level concept store with an immense open space rooftop where they take place. Over 300 people mixed race crowd is jamming to latest Afrobeat and reggae tunes. As we walk around the venue, Yacine exchanges a few words with a friend and we head to the busy bar for some shots before the last drink is called. As we exit the place, we run into Binouche whom I met on the first night. This time we must exchange numbers and set a day to have a few words with her. The Trams rooftop lounge closes at 1am, heading to Seven, a private club where an upper class crowd gather. Looks like it’s gonna be a long night…