In Reply to: Advice for volunteers posted byErin on July 11, 19100 at 18:57:05:
: Hi Stephanie...my name is Erin Hustings and I just returned from two years in Benin. Sean's mom asked my mom if I could write you something since I'm back already and it's much easier to communicate from the US than from Benin! I could go on forever and ever...it'd probably be best if you could write me a message, send me your email address and I'll answer any specific questions you have. For now, in general, parents can't help but worry but I truly feel that Benin is a safer place to be than the US. You will so rarely meet anyone that has negative feelings about your presence in Benin...on the contrary, especially once you get to know people, they'll go out of their way to make you feel comfortable and welcome. What to bring is a good question, because I found the list they sent us to be a little inaccurate. You'll be surprised at the things you can actually get in Benin (although much is only available in the bigger cities)...you can buy film, a range of toiletries, Pringles, stereos... The main thing I can think of that it's nice to have is LOTS of your favorite music, but I'll try to be thinking of other suggestions. Anyway, feel free to email me...I love to talk about Benin!
PS: I thought my address would be on the message but I'm not sure it'll appear...it's ehustings@hotmail.com