We were wise in choosing a small hotel, the Djenne. It is run by the former Minister of Culture and Tourism, a woman known to be outspoken, though she didn't say two words to us. The hotel and the two restaurants associated with it are filled with high-quality Malian art pieces and have a peaceful air. To get to the dinner we walked a few blocks down residential streets. With no streetlights, the illumination came from home lighting and TVs brought out for groups of neighbors to watch soccer. The night was warm and peaceful. The restaurant was a no-alcohol place, which spurred us to give the the ginger-infused drinks a try. All in all, it was a wonderful first night in Mali.
That day at the hotel, we had met a Englishwoman working in reproductive research. From her car-hire service we procured a driver and Toyota Land Cruiser. We left the next morning for an eight-day adventure.
