Dakar

Dakar is the capital city of Senegal, located on the Cape Verde Peninsula, on the country's Atlantic coast. It is Senegal's largest city. Its position, on the western edge of Africa, is an advantageous departure point for trans-Atlantic and European trade; this fact aided its growth into a major regional port.

Dakar is a major West African hub, so there are lots of flights coming from and going to Europe, North America and other African cities. Be prepared to arrive and leave at a godforsaken time of the night - many flights come in at around 2 and leave at around 4 AM.

Crime in Dakar is relatively high; crime against tourists is common, even around Place de l'Independance. Use common sense: women should not walk around alone after dark. Watch your pockets in crowded places, such as Sandaga, and keep a close eye on your belongings. There are many different scams to get money from tourists, so be wary. Avoid the beaches at night. Try not to wear any outwardly expensive items of clothing or jewelry. Overall, though, the Senegalese are an incredibly friendly and hospitable people and you will meet many people who are genuinely interested in talking to you.

The Senegalese people are in no way violent. The main crime that they suffer from is due to their lack of mental health. Some people turn to stealing so that they can drink alcoholic beverages and eat. Senegal is one of the most governmentally stable countries on the continent of Africa. They have a good police force, many of what speak English.