Ouagadougou

Ouagadougou - or simply "Ouaga" as it is affectionately called, is the capital city of Burkina Faso, the French-speaking country located directly north of Ghana. It is landlocked, hot, dusty and one of the poorest countries in the world, but oh!  the French colonial influence is definitely there - most apparent in "la bonne cuisine." Sprinkled among the everyday food stands similar to those in Ghana, one can easily balance the inconveniences of the Harmattan wind, the stifling 106 degree temperatures and the frequent loss of electrical power by dining in little jewels of restaurants unlike any found in Tamale. Three at the top of my list are le St. Matthieu with its touch of elegance and gourmet menu, le Verdoyant with its inviting family atmosphere and noted pizza ovens, and l'Eau Vive with its delicious crêpes and peaceful atmosphere. Even at Les Lauriers, our Guest House, and other nearby spots, I threw caution to the wind as I devoured salads, spring rolls, French baguettes, yam croquettes and pistachio ice cream.