Sierra Leone: a new dawn in 'sweet salone'
‘Sweet Salone’ as Sierra Leone has become warmly known locally has not had it easy. Mention that you’re going there and the first reaction is usually, ‘really?’ followed quickly by ‘why?’
The words that almost always spring to mind are ‘conflict’, ‘blood diamonds’, ‘disease’, ‘corruption,’ ‘child soldiers’ and so on… it’s not a happy first impression.
In 2008 Sierra Leone – literally ‘Lion Mountain’ – six years after a savage civil war it sat desperately at the bottom of the human development index.
The prospect of any kind of progress or development was thin.
But in the last few years there has been a slow but real shift. People are now beginning to invest, a new elected government led by President Koroma has attracted those that fled during the war back to build a less corrupt government and now people are remembering salone – the beaches, the forest, the rivers – the sweet welcome of the people.
And this is the reality. For when you arrive the perception of the country couldn’t be further from the truth. It feels more laid back, safe and comfortable in it’s own skin than many other nations on the vast continent.
So, here, upon this small knuckle of West Africa a new dawn is coming. Now is the time for social investments and a celebration of what Salone is – a beautiful beautiful country and people.
Come and join us in the morning light, play in the sand and be part of this new beginning.
Sierra Leone: Facts
Capital: Freetown
Population: 6.3 million (2008 estimate)
Language: Krio, the queen’s english mixed with tribal dialects
Time: GMT
Visas: On arrival £50 / $80
Money: Leone 5500 to the £ / 4000 to the $
Health: Bring yellow fever certificate and anti-malarials
For probably one of the best guidebooks in the world, check out Bradt’s guide to Sierra Leone.
More info about Sierra Leone
