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Travels with Terry #1
Immersed in West Africa: My Solo Journey Across Senegal, Mauritania, The Gambia, Guinea and Guinea Bissau
It’s Africa!
Immersed in West Africa is NOT one of those cookie-cutter guide books. This is the powerful on-the-ground diary of one man’s solo journey through West Africa. For roughly 60 days, Terry Lister traveled across Senegal, Mauritania, the Gambia, Guinea and Guinea Bissau. What he experienced touched both his spirit and his soul. The ups and downs of travel, the people, the transport, the weather, the food, the haggling...he welcomed it all.
From harrowing experiences with border police, to day-long travel on crowded mini-buses, Lister’s accounts of daily life shed light on the real side of Africa, and are sure to both entertain and educate you.
Travel is the best educator and Lister shows us that while Africa is still the brunt of many jokes and misconceptions, it is more than worth the visit. If you are someone who’s been a bit afraid to travel into Africa beyond the big tours, this book will inspire you to step out with courage and faith. While your experience will be your own, it is one guaranteed to inspire and motivate you to be the best version of yourself.
So let’s step into this adventure together!
Immersed in West Africa is NOT one of those cookie-cutter guide books. This is the powerful on-the-ground diary of one man’s solo journey through West Africa. For roughly 60 days, Terry Lister traveled across Senegal, Mauritania, the Gambia, Guinea and Guinea Bissau. What he experienced touched both his spirit and his soul. The ups and downs of travel, the people, the transport, the weather, the food, the haggling...he welcomed it all.
From harrowing experiences with border police, to day-long travel on crowded mini-buses, Lister’s accounts of daily life shed light on the real side of Africa, and are sure to both entertain and educate you.
Travel is the best educator and Lister shows us that while Africa is still the brunt of many jokes and misconceptions, it is more than worth the visit. If you are someone who’s been a bit afraid to travel into Africa beyond the big tours, this book will inspire you to step out with courage and faith. While your experience will be your own, it is one guaranteed to inspire and motivate you to be the best version of yourself.
So let’s step into this adventure together!
156 pages, Kindle Edition
Published August 29, 2019
38 people are currently reading
176 people want to read
About the author
Terry Lister
8 books47 followersThe Honourable Terry Lister is a retired accountant, realtor, politican. Having served in these capacities for many years, in November 2014 he took his final vocation full time-travelling the world. Since that time he has travelled to every country in Central and South America except for one nation. From October 2017 until Covid arrived, he travelled in 22 African countries.
Terry has continually stated that travel provides the best education possible. In his books he shares his experiences in Africa with the view of encouraging others to feel free to go, see, taste and enjoy this part of the world.
Terry has continually stated that travel provides the best education possible. In his books he shares his experiences in Africa with the view of encouraging others to feel free to go, see, taste and enjoy this part of the world.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 78 reviews
December 5, 2020
In “Immersed in West Africa,” the author tells of his adventures while exploring West Africa, specifically Senegal, Mauritania, The Gambia, Guineau-Bissau, Gineau-Conakry, and South Senegal. It is an interesting adventure, but I would have liked more pictures and more detail.
For example, Tea-making in Mauritania and the accompanying pictures were interesting and enjoyable to read. However, when the author sat down to dinner, the family only ate with their right hand, with no explanation as to why. This reader would like to know why, the history of this, and possibly other cultural practices of the different regions. This also happened in St Louis, Senegal. The author ate a dinner with a family, and they only ate with their right hand. Why? They killed a chicken for the dinner. Was this a usual or unusual meal for them? What are the typical foods and eating habits of these areas?
In St. Louis, Senegal, the text mentions beautiful beaches, but the accompanying pictures are not really of the beauty of the beaches. The book should contain more photographs and they should really reflect the beauty the author is talking about. Also in St. Louis, the author speaks of the hustle of the market and how you can get almost anything there, but the only picture shows some women at the market and not the wide array of the goods available. There should be pictures of the interesting and varied goods and food that you can get there, with a little history about them.
I very much enjoyed the features on Bijilo Monkey Park and the Kachikally Museum and Crocodile Pool. They were well described, and accompanied with a nice history and photos, although even more photos would be preferred. I would like to have seen this format carried throughout the book.
I was interested in the problems and corruption at the border, but feel they could have been better explained.
Overall, I would like to have seen more of the cultural history, arts, and people of each place the author visited. There is a lot of great potential here, but I think this book needs to be broken down and possibly turned into two books, with a lot more detail, photos, culture, and history of each area included.
If you are a Kindle Unlimited member, you can get this book on Amazon at no additional charge, as I did.
For example, Tea-making in Mauritania and the accompanying pictures were interesting and enjoyable to read. However, when the author sat down to dinner, the family only ate with their right hand, with no explanation as to why. This reader would like to know why, the history of this, and possibly other cultural practices of the different regions. This also happened in St Louis, Senegal. The author ate a dinner with a family, and they only ate with their right hand. Why? They killed a chicken for the dinner. Was this a usual or unusual meal for them? What are the typical foods and eating habits of these areas?
In St. Louis, Senegal, the text mentions beautiful beaches, but the accompanying pictures are not really of the beauty of the beaches. The book should contain more photographs and they should really reflect the beauty the author is talking about. Also in St. Louis, the author speaks of the hustle of the market and how you can get almost anything there, but the only picture shows some women at the market and not the wide array of the goods available. There should be pictures of the interesting and varied goods and food that you can get there, with a little history about them.
I very much enjoyed the features on Bijilo Monkey Park and the Kachikally Museum and Crocodile Pool. They were well described, and accompanied with a nice history and photos, although even more photos would be preferred. I would like to have seen this format carried throughout the book.
I was interested in the problems and corruption at the border, but feel they could have been better explained.
Overall, I would like to have seen more of the cultural history, arts, and people of each place the author visited. There is a lot of great potential here, but I think this book needs to be broken down and possibly turned into two books, with a lot more detail, photos, culture, and history of each area included.
If you are a Kindle Unlimited member, you can get this book on Amazon at no additional charge, as I did.
August 11, 2020
Immersed In West Africa is a travelogue written by Bermudan solo traveller Terry Lister. Terry chose to visit some of the lesser known places and countries of Africa and he hopes that he might encourage some of the readers of his book to visit them too.
This books covers Terry’s route during 2017 through Senegal, Mauritania, The Gambia, Guinea and Guinea Bissau. He chose to use local transportation as much as possible and these included mini vans, sept-place cars (7-seater cars) and motorbikes.
As a seasoned traveller Terry had completed a lot of research before he went; he also understood the need to arrive at pick up points early to get the best seat. I was impressed with how calmly he dealt with the constant requests for bribes at border crossings and with all the different currencies, especially when exchange rates and cash-only payments meant that he had to carry large sums of local money; I was relieved that he was never robbed.
Some of my favourite descriptions were when Terry went to see waterfalls and into the jungle or national parks. The book has lots of beautiful pictures from Terry’s travels, so this book would be an ideal read in paperback.
This books covers Terry’s route during 2017 through Senegal, Mauritania, The Gambia, Guinea and Guinea Bissau. He chose to use local transportation as much as possible and these included mini vans, sept-place cars (7-seater cars) and motorbikes.
As a seasoned traveller Terry had completed a lot of research before he went; he also understood the need to arrive at pick up points early to get the best seat. I was impressed with how calmly he dealt with the constant requests for bribes at border crossings and with all the different currencies, especially when exchange rates and cash-only payments meant that he had to carry large sums of local money; I was relieved that he was never robbed.
Some of my favourite descriptions were when Terry went to see waterfalls and into the jungle or national parks. The book has lots of beautiful pictures from Terry’s travels, so this book would be an ideal read in paperback.
January 12, 2022
Detailed travelogue
The author has picked West Africa and more particularly the countries of Senegal, Gambia, Guinea-Bissau and Guinea-Conakry to name a few.
In the beginning of the book, he had described that being from Bermuda Islands and from a family of travellers, traveling was in his blood. Which probably explains his choice of destination.
Going to West Africa, looking at the places, he had neatly captured the essence of the place as a tourist would see it. Some of the countries that he had visited had been French or Portugal colonies before getting their independence, which the author has tried to capture well in the book.
The descriptions of the Pink Lake were vivid. I really enjoyed the 'mint tea' which he enjoyed from a family and how this was almost a ritual of the place. Aside from the place, his experiences with the people there - the bike driver who took him to see the waterfalls after 'talking' with the soldier of his own tribe and the 'black market' people who had 'issues' with his passport were also vividly described. His 'haircut' episode made me think again about the commination problem which he must have faced there. I have to specially mention the 'Door of no return' described in the book too - emotional and well described.
The photographs of the place were apt when included and otherwise the author has explained the reason for not having any images.
A very vivid and well written book just as a collection of experiences of a non-native, in a foreign land - a bit of adventure and very informative about new cultures, people and new and unknown lands.
The author has picked West Africa and more particularly the countries of Senegal, Gambia, Guinea-Bissau and Guinea-Conakry to name a few.
In the beginning of the book, he had described that being from Bermuda Islands and from a family of travellers, traveling was in his blood. Which probably explains his choice of destination.
Going to West Africa, looking at the places, he had neatly captured the essence of the place as a tourist would see it. Some of the countries that he had visited had been French or Portugal colonies before getting their independence, which the author has tried to capture well in the book.
The descriptions of the Pink Lake were vivid. I really enjoyed the 'mint tea' which he enjoyed from a family and how this was almost a ritual of the place. Aside from the place, his experiences with the people there - the bike driver who took him to see the waterfalls after 'talking' with the soldier of his own tribe and the 'black market' people who had 'issues' with his passport were also vividly described. His 'haircut' episode made me think again about the commination problem which he must have faced there. I have to specially mention the 'Door of no return' described in the book too - emotional and well described.
The photographs of the place were apt when included and otherwise the author has explained the reason for not having any images.
A very vivid and well written book just as a collection of experiences of a non-native, in a foreign land - a bit of adventure and very informative about new cultures, people and new and unknown lands.
December 25, 2022
Lone traveller!
This book recalls the many experiences where every place you wanted to go seemed an age to get there, often in the most uncomfortable of rides. encountered by Terry Lister on his travels to parts of West Africa that are not usually seen by the average tourist. Terry recalls his somewhat turbulent journey, through several parts of this fantastic country where every place seems to take an age to get to, often in the most uncomfortable of rides. He experiences highs such as the beautiful scenery, architecture, wildlife, waterfalls, and lows, including poverty, hardship and corrupt officials who take advantage of unsuspecting travellers.
Throughout the book, pictures accompany the descriptions which, whilst a help, im sure don't do the places justice as they need to be seen to accept their beauty and splendor. A great insight into a different part of Africa which brings awareness and encouragement to go off the beaten track.
This book recalls the many experiences where every place you wanted to go seemed an age to get there, often in the most uncomfortable of rides. encountered by Terry Lister on his travels to parts of West Africa that are not usually seen by the average tourist. Terry recalls his somewhat turbulent journey, through several parts of this fantastic country where every place seems to take an age to get to, often in the most uncomfortable of rides. He experiences highs such as the beautiful scenery, architecture, wildlife, waterfalls, and lows, including poverty, hardship and corrupt officials who take advantage of unsuspecting travellers.
Throughout the book, pictures accompany the descriptions which, whilst a help, im sure don't do the places justice as they need to be seen to accept their beauty and splendor. A great insight into a different part of Africa which brings awareness and encouragement to go off the beaten track.
December 7, 2022
Lister embarks on a trip around West Africa after years of curiosity and shares his experiences in a very personal way in this fantastic book. There are many good and bad experiences and plenty of great pictures to illustrate them.
Bad experiences include getting hounded for hours by the corrupt immigration officers of Mauritania. Our host travels around in a sept-place car. Everything you would expect from a travel book is included like the food and beverages, the wildlife, the monuments and the history. You learn things reading this book too such as The African Renaissance Monument in Senegal is Africa's tallest statue and is higher than the Statue of Liberty and Christ the Redeemer. Lister also ventures into Guinea-Bissau, ranked #192 in the world's most popular tourist destination countries. There are many deeper facts among the pages which will astound you.
There's a lot to take in and a lot to bear visiting the countries described in this book but Lister approaches his journey in a very optimistic way, whilst trying not to get too emotional. It's not a travel guide, it's a travel story, told from the man next door. I would definitely recommend that you read it.
Bad experiences include getting hounded for hours by the corrupt immigration officers of Mauritania. Our host travels around in a sept-place car. Everything you would expect from a travel book is included like the food and beverages, the wildlife, the monuments and the history. You learn things reading this book too such as The African Renaissance Monument in Senegal is Africa's tallest statue and is higher than the Statue of Liberty and Christ the Redeemer. Lister also ventures into Guinea-Bissau, ranked #192 in the world's most popular tourist destination countries. There are many deeper facts among the pages which will astound you.
There's a lot to take in and a lot to bear visiting the countries described in this book but Lister approaches his journey in a very optimistic way, whilst trying not to get too emotional. It's not a travel guide, it's a travel story, told from the man next door. I would definitely recommend that you read it.
December 2, 2021
It’s all there in the title. In that single word ‘immersed.’ Because when Terry Lister decided to go traveling, he didn’t book a packaged tour.
Whenever we set out to explore the world, it’s always a two-way process. A journey that reveals as much about us as it does about our surroundings. Will we respect those we encounter, grant them their dignity? Do our best to experience life as they know it, to see the world through their eyes? And when things go awry, as they always do, do we respond with anger, frustration, or learn to laugh it off?
If we’re lucky, we’ll be like Terry, and dive into our travels head-first. Experience each day as it comes, taking the bad with the good. Realize that in opting for comfort and ease, we’d be missing the very same close encounters that put us on the road in the first place. No, I probably won’t be visiting West Africa anytime in the near future, but I can do the next best thing. Share that visit with someone as curious, as gracious, as life-affirming, as the author of this book.
Whenever we set out to explore the world, it’s always a two-way process. A journey that reveals as much about us as it does about our surroundings. Will we respect those we encounter, grant them their dignity? Do our best to experience life as they know it, to see the world through their eyes? And when things go awry, as they always do, do we respond with anger, frustration, or learn to laugh it off?
If we’re lucky, we’ll be like Terry, and dive into our travels head-first. Experience each day as it comes, taking the bad with the good. Realize that in opting for comfort and ease, we’d be missing the very same close encounters that put us on the road in the first place. No, I probably won’t be visiting West Africa anytime in the near future, but I can do the next best thing. Share that visit with someone as curious, as gracious, as life-affirming, as the author of this book.
October 24, 2020
If you are going to West Africa, you should take a copy of this book with you. Traveling author Terry Lister has been there recently (October-November 2017) and has visited Senegal, Mauritania, The Gambia, Guinea, and Guinea Bissau.
I'm awarding this personal travelogue an excellent 4-star review because it gives the reader important and current information. Mr. Lister traveled as the locals travel, in minivans that could comfortably take seven passengers, but instead were crammed with as many as fourteen people, to riding on the back of a motor scooter with other passengers. He said that in many places the poverty is heart-breaking, but the spirit of the people is great. He encourages would-be travelers to leave your inhibitions at home and open up to new experiences. My favorite part was about his visit to the library in Chinguetti, Mauritania with photos of manuscripts from the 13th century.
I'm awarding this personal travelogue an excellent 4-star review because it gives the reader important and current information. Mr. Lister traveled as the locals travel, in minivans that could comfortably take seven passengers, but instead were crammed with as many as fourteen people, to riding on the back of a motor scooter with other passengers. He said that in many places the poverty is heart-breaking, but the spirit of the people is great. He encourages would-be travelers to leave your inhibitions at home and open up to new experiences. My favorite part was about his visit to the library in Chinguetti, Mauritania with photos of manuscripts from the 13th century.
September 5, 2020
Terry Lister takes us on a fun and interesting journey through Africa in Immersed in West Africa! This gravel guide walks us through the sights and interesting locales of five separate countries, all while being well organized and easy to read. I really thought it was cool how Lister blends the narrative of his personal journey and experiences into an informative piece about these countries and their people! The inclusion of pictures was a great addition as well. If you’re looking to see a bit of the world and broaden your horizons, take a trip to West Africa with Terry Lister!
February 15, 2023
Enjoyed immensely.
Not a travel guide per se, a book of this size could not cover the whole of four large countries, but anyone thinking of travelling to Senegal, Mauritania, The Gambia, Guinea or Guinea Bassau should read this book to get a flavour of each country and how the author found them. It is, in fact, a travelogue accompanied by photos of interesting buildings, sites and people. Thoroughly recommended.
Not a travel guide per se, a book of this size could not cover the whole of four large countries, but anyone thinking of travelling to Senegal, Mauritania, The Gambia, Guinea or Guinea Bassau should read this book to get a flavour of each country and how the author found them. It is, in fact, a travelogue accompanied by photos of interesting buildings, sites and people. Thoroughly recommended.
September 12, 2020
When Mr. Lister approached me to review his book, it intrigued me. Immersed in West Africa: My Solo Journey Across Senegal, Mauritania, The Gambia, Guinea, and Guinea Bissau is part travel journal, part tourism literature. In 154 pages, I was taken on a whirlwind introduction of a part of the world I would have never considered visiting. After finishing the book, I'm not compelled to visit West Africa, but I appreciate Mr. Lister's honest recording of the experience.
Terry Lister is a retired accountant, realtor, and politician from Bermuda. In 2014, Terry made travel a full-time job. He has been to almost every country in South and Central America, and he's been to eighteen African nations. When he introduces himself in the book, he is quick to explain that travel is a way of life in the islands. His father was an avid traveler and encouraged his son to be fearless in his exploration. That mindset is admirable and comes in handy during some sections of the adventure Terry recounted.
The book is populated with colorful and immersing photos that really took me on the journey with him. The most beautiful photos were of the waterfalls he spent a better part of a week traveling to with a guide. He clearly enjoyed this section of the trip. The words practically bounced off the page!
Terry is insistent that travelers to West Africa need to be patient. It is a slow-moving transportation system and there is definite corruption. He doesn't condemn or disparage these systems, but he does express his frustration with the constant “shake-downs” for money and the unprofessional-ism of the supposed tourist sites. His experience with the locals is always positive and shows his interest in both the culture and the atmosphere.
It was nice to read an account that didn't shy away or gloss over the “backroom deals.” He wrote about this with frustration, but self-awareness that didn't stew in entitlement, and I admire him for that. It could have been tempting to rage on and on about it, but he didn't.
My final thoughts on Immersed in West Africa: My Solo Journey Across Senegal, Mauritania, The Gambia, Guinea, and Guinea Bissau by Terry Lister are it is an immersive reading experience, just like the book suggests. Terry is very vocal about people being open to this type of travel and embracing the diversity of the world. I respect that message, and I give the book a 4 out of 5 stars, because it is a personal account, but if you are looking for travel tips, the narrative is light on that subject.
When I mentioned my reasoning for this rating to Mr. Lister, he explained he doesn't share food or lodging recommendations because a traveler’s comfort is subjective. I understand that logic, I guess I just would have liked to have seen more of the process of international travel, you know, for those of us who will probably never leave our home borders.
Terry Lister is a retired accountant, realtor, and politician from Bermuda. In 2014, Terry made travel a full-time job. He has been to almost every country in South and Central America, and he's been to eighteen African nations. When he introduces himself in the book, he is quick to explain that travel is a way of life in the islands. His father was an avid traveler and encouraged his son to be fearless in his exploration. That mindset is admirable and comes in handy during some sections of the adventure Terry recounted.
The book is populated with colorful and immersing photos that really took me on the journey with him. The most beautiful photos were of the waterfalls he spent a better part of a week traveling to with a guide. He clearly enjoyed this section of the trip. The words practically bounced off the page!
Terry is insistent that travelers to West Africa need to be patient. It is a slow-moving transportation system and there is definite corruption. He doesn't condemn or disparage these systems, but he does express his frustration with the constant “shake-downs” for money and the unprofessional-ism of the supposed tourist sites. His experience with the locals is always positive and shows his interest in both the culture and the atmosphere.
It was nice to read an account that didn't shy away or gloss over the “backroom deals.” He wrote about this with frustration, but self-awareness that didn't stew in entitlement, and I admire him for that. It could have been tempting to rage on and on about it, but he didn't.
My final thoughts on Immersed in West Africa: My Solo Journey Across Senegal, Mauritania, The Gambia, Guinea, and Guinea Bissau by Terry Lister are it is an immersive reading experience, just like the book suggests. Terry is very vocal about people being open to this type of travel and embracing the diversity of the world. I respect that message, and I give the book a 4 out of 5 stars, because it is a personal account, but if you are looking for travel tips, the narrative is light on that subject.
When I mentioned my reasoning for this rating to Mr. Lister, he explained he doesn't share food or lodging recommendations because a traveler’s comfort is subjective. I understand that logic, I guess I just would have liked to have seen more of the process of international travel, you know, for those of us who will probably never leave our home borders.
June 30, 2021
Assuredly, it is one of the finest travelogues I came across in recent times. The author’s definitive account is of cinematic level, making the journey comes alive to the reader. Such is the impact that after a few initial chapters, you are no longer a reader but a co-traveler. He doesn’t render rosy pictures of exotic destinations but talks about his shared cab rides, bike rides, struggles to get a seat, bribing experiences, and spending time with locals without speaking a common language. The reason why I loved this travel journal, it is not about the destination but the journey.
Terry took the road lesser traveled and chose West Africa as the travel destination. However, he fancied going there since childhood. His travel route explores Senegal, Mauritania, Gambia, Guinea-Bissau, and Guinea Conakry. None of his days was a cakewalk, and every day he fought a new battle. Sometimes, it is related to the hotel, which is nothing more than an under-construction building with barriers all around, sometimes it is a corrupt official aiming to extract some money out of him and sometimes villagers who also need some extra cash. It is incredible to see how he escape the trap every time and made his day marvelous.
I have never considered Africa in my travel list as I didn’t know it is full of worthwhile sightseeing. The author has explored beaches, markets, parks, and museums that sounds spectacular. But, unfortunately, images are not doing justice to them. There are very few and do not precisely show the point of attraction. But the author looked so happy in all of them it gave a different level of satisfaction.
Among all other places, I wanted to know more about the history of Goree Island- Door of no return. Exactly what gruesome history made everyone cry by being there is worth knowing. I also adored how he traveled like a local guy using public transport. His experience of witnessing mint tea and having meals with families where no one understood each other’s language touched my heart.
I am grateful to the author for sending the book across. Although I would still need a lot of courage to travel to Africa yet, this book has opened up a gateway to the unexplored world.
Terry took the road lesser traveled and chose West Africa as the travel destination. However, he fancied going there since childhood. His travel route explores Senegal, Mauritania, Gambia, Guinea-Bissau, and Guinea Conakry. None of his days was a cakewalk, and every day he fought a new battle. Sometimes, it is related to the hotel, which is nothing more than an under-construction building with barriers all around, sometimes it is a corrupt official aiming to extract some money out of him and sometimes villagers who also need some extra cash. It is incredible to see how he escape the trap every time and made his day marvelous.
I have never considered Africa in my travel list as I didn’t know it is full of worthwhile sightseeing. The author has explored beaches, markets, parks, and museums that sounds spectacular. But, unfortunately, images are not doing justice to them. There are very few and do not precisely show the point of attraction. But the author looked so happy in all of them it gave a different level of satisfaction.
Among all other places, I wanted to know more about the history of Goree Island- Door of no return. Exactly what gruesome history made everyone cry by being there is worth knowing. I also adored how he traveled like a local guy using public transport. His experience of witnessing mint tea and having meals with families where no one understood each other’s language touched my heart.
I am grateful to the author for sending the book across. Although I would still need a lot of courage to travel to Africa yet, this book has opened up a gateway to the unexplored world.
July 11, 2023
Immersed in West Africa is the most enjoyable nonfiction book I have read so far in 2020. It’s not often that I read travelogues, though also not entirely unheard-of. I wasn’t sure what to expect when I decided to read Immersed in West Africa, and it far surpassed my (nonexistent) expectations!
This is a quick book to read through. The stories are told with such a boisterous and pleasant tone that reading it is like listening to a friend talk about something they are excited about. Even though I had absolutely no reference point for anything about Africa, I was instantly pulled in and wanted to hear more. The author truly makes it enjoyable for the reader to learn both about his experiences and about the countries themselves, without falling back on a list of facts. The author’s enthusiasm is so contagious that I was sad to come to the end of the book!
I highly recommend Immersed in West Africa to anyone who enjoys traveling, reading about places you have never been, or quick and easy-to-digest nonfiction. This book is a joy to read and teaches the reader quite a bit of African history without even seeming to try. I give it four out of five stars; a truly good book, just shy of the perfection that a five-star rating would necessitate. There were a few times where I felt that I might be missing something, as if there were a previous book of earlier travels that I should be able to reference in order to better understand some of the stories in this one, but I cannot find one online. My only other criticism is that the formatting could have been a little more user-friendly. On the whole, I am so glad that I read Immersed in West Africa and look forward to virtually traveling to more places I have never visited through similar books!
This review and more bookish content originally posted on Reviews From the Stacks.
This is a quick book to read through. The stories are told with such a boisterous and pleasant tone that reading it is like listening to a friend talk about something they are excited about. Even though I had absolutely no reference point for anything about Africa, I was instantly pulled in and wanted to hear more. The author truly makes it enjoyable for the reader to learn both about his experiences and about the countries themselves, without falling back on a list of facts. The author’s enthusiasm is so contagious that I was sad to come to the end of the book!
I highly recommend Immersed in West Africa to anyone who enjoys traveling, reading about places you have never been, or quick and easy-to-digest nonfiction. This book is a joy to read and teaches the reader quite a bit of African history without even seeming to try. I give it four out of five stars; a truly good book, just shy of the perfection that a five-star rating would necessitate. There were a few times where I felt that I might be missing something, as if there were a previous book of earlier travels that I should be able to reference in order to better understand some of the stories in this one, but I cannot find one online. My only other criticism is that the formatting could have been a little more user-friendly. On the whole, I am so glad that I read Immersed in West Africa and look forward to virtually traveling to more places I have never visited through similar books!
This review and more bookish content originally posted on Reviews From the Stacks.
June 2, 2022
Terry Lister is a regular solo traveler who has so far tasted cultural aroma of over 96 countries, including 22 in Africa. His latest book is a travel experience which he gained while being in five West African countries namely Senegal, Mauritania, The Gambia, Guinea, and Guinea Bissau. All these countries are located in the west of Africa. He travelled there like a normal man, with difficulties that a local could face.
I found the book highly rich with his personal accounts of people, soil, climate, dealing with corrupt officials and locals who demanded extra money, and so on. Terry begins his journey with Senegal, which also remains his base point. In this country he visits many historical monuments and places that throw vestiges of pain, tribulation, and human spirit. One such place is ‘Goree Island,’ it was used for human slave trade and considered ‘Door of No Return’.
As far as I could gather, he had smooth time in Senegal as compared to other West African countries he lived and experiences. The worst and most corrupt one was Mauritania.
Terry, in snatches, provided colourful pictures of many places throughout the book. These pictures make the book look really credible and high spirited. No doubt the book sounded like a diary of a traveler, more than any guide or anything else. I enjoyed the information he provided about people and how these colonies of French and Portugal are fairing after they left. History runs amok with Terry.
I was exhilarated and thrilled to know real facts about West Africa but also heartbreak when I found Terry had to struggle a lot with border police, hotel staff, cab drivers, and guides.
I found the book highly rich with his personal accounts of people, soil, climate, dealing with corrupt officials and locals who demanded extra money, and so on. Terry begins his journey with Senegal, which also remains his base point. In this country he visits many historical monuments and places that throw vestiges of pain, tribulation, and human spirit. One such place is ‘Goree Island,’ it was used for human slave trade and considered ‘Door of No Return’.
As far as I could gather, he had smooth time in Senegal as compared to other West African countries he lived and experiences. The worst and most corrupt one was Mauritania.
Terry, in snatches, provided colourful pictures of many places throughout the book. These pictures make the book look really credible and high spirited. No doubt the book sounded like a diary of a traveler, more than any guide or anything else. I enjoyed the information he provided about people and how these colonies of French and Portugal are fairing after they left. History runs amok with Terry.
I was exhilarated and thrilled to know real facts about West Africa but also heartbreak when I found Terry had to struggle a lot with border police, hotel staff, cab drivers, and guides.
August 3, 2020
Most people will never travel to West Africa, so Terry Lister brings this country to you in Immersed in West Africa. The author visits five of territories and gives the reader a rundown of what to expect. The rich history of West Africa is fascinating. Slavery played a major part in its dark past as many places were used to funnel the slaves that were sold and shipped to the Western world. The beautiful wildlife and nature sites inspired Terry to experience their exceptional splendor, though petting crocodiles wasn’t as appealing. The people live in a slower timeline and accept change as a way of life. Their drive and work ethic are inspiring as many live in extreme poverty.
I found Immersed in West Africa fascinating. Terry Lister brings the Dark Continent to life with his vivid description and wonderful photographs. I loved how Terry described the people and tidbits about this country. The author keeps his experiences real as he tells about his traveling events, the cost of crossing borders, and the language barrier he faced. I researched more about this country as Terry shed light on the places that interested him. Overall, it took me much longer to read this travel guide than I had expected. I hung on every word, studied the maps, and poured over the photos. I mourned over the crumbling architect, walking through the markets, and gliding across the rivers. Since the author has become a world traveler, I am looking forward to discovering new worlds and enticing places with him.
Review written by Peggy Jo Wipf for Readers' Favorite.
I found Immersed in West Africa fascinating. Terry Lister brings the Dark Continent to life with his vivid description and wonderful photographs. I loved how Terry described the people and tidbits about this country. The author keeps his experiences real as he tells about his traveling events, the cost of crossing borders, and the language barrier he faced. I researched more about this country as Terry shed light on the places that interested him. Overall, it took me much longer to read this travel guide than I had expected. I hung on every word, studied the maps, and poured over the photos. I mourned over the crumbling architect, walking through the markets, and gliding across the rivers. Since the author has become a world traveler, I am looking forward to discovering new worlds and enticing places with him.
Review written by Peggy Jo Wipf for Readers' Favorite.
June 2, 2022
Terry Lister though has been over to 22 African countries, but he had no idea about West Africa until he made himself travel there. On a broader note, he traveled across 5 countries in the West Africa namely Senegal, Mauritania, The Gambia, Guinea, and Guinea Bissau. He was marooned to various encounters in these five West African countries, from finding it extremely difficult to travel comfortably to dealing with excess demands of money by locals to corrupt border officials – he saw so much that it left him reeling with mixed feelings for that part of the world.
‘Immersed in West Africa’ is less on a travel guide and more journey experience, the author was hooked by the affront reality of poverty, misery, broken infrastructure, corrupt officials, and no proper order in the hospitality sector. I think Terry must make a YouTube channel for his African tours and safari. Sadly some West African countries do not have that good scope of safari as compared to other eastern and southern countries. As I hardly found mention of forests and wild animals in this book, but there were, on the other hand, parks and historical places of value and lineage.
Yet I would like to tell that Africa is not a scary place, rather you need to be careful there and should not flaunt anything otherwise things can go. Also the book has many pictures of places like historical museums and parks, rivers, roads, cars and of local streets and Sor markets. Totally I am in awe with this author even though I have not visited Africa in my life.
‘Immersed in West Africa’ is less on a travel guide and more journey experience, the author was hooked by the affront reality of poverty, misery, broken infrastructure, corrupt officials, and no proper order in the hospitality sector. I think Terry must make a YouTube channel for his African tours and safari. Sadly some West African countries do not have that good scope of safari as compared to other eastern and southern countries. As I hardly found mention of forests and wild animals in this book, but there were, on the other hand, parks and historical places of value and lineage.
Yet I would like to tell that Africa is not a scary place, rather you need to be careful there and should not flaunt anything otherwise things can go. Also the book has many pictures of places like historical museums and parks, rivers, roads, cars and of local streets and Sor markets. Totally I am in awe with this author even though I have not visited Africa in my life.
June 2, 2022
Terry Lister, the solo traveler from Bermuda, presents a fantastic and resourceful book about 5 West African countries: Immersed in West Africa.
In particular, the book details about Senegal, Mauritania, The Gambia, Guinea, and Guinea Bissau. It talks about West Africa, excludes North Africa, Algeria and Morocco. Neither he talked about other parts of Africa. It is solely focused on five West Africa countries. If you are intending to go there for travel, business trip, or being a digital nomad, this book can be a great help. This book doesn’t share as where to stay, how to book, how to travel…in fact Terry lived on his own terms. He was exhausted by the pathetic road trips, had to pay extra to get a comfortable seat in sept-place cars, slyly dealt with border police that was hell bent on exhorting money from foreigners, and what not.
The book also talks about pleasant memories, especially through pictures. Terry was also lucky to have acquaintance of some good drivers and guides and their families with whom he shared tea and meals. But I feel he was yet comfortable in West Africa may be due to routine travels or his appearance. He penned his personal experience but in between he also shared political and religious insights about the countries. Having read this book, I could gather that Senegal is progressing while rest four was stagnant after their rulers left i.e. France and Portugal. Be it anything, the book may not disappoint you, and provides better coverage than professional travel magazines. Good luck if you are going to Africa.
In particular, the book details about Senegal, Mauritania, The Gambia, Guinea, and Guinea Bissau. It talks about West Africa, excludes North Africa, Algeria and Morocco. Neither he talked about other parts of Africa. It is solely focused on five West Africa countries. If you are intending to go there for travel, business trip, or being a digital nomad, this book can be a great help. This book doesn’t share as where to stay, how to book, how to travel…in fact Terry lived on his own terms. He was exhausted by the pathetic road trips, had to pay extra to get a comfortable seat in sept-place cars, slyly dealt with border police that was hell bent on exhorting money from foreigners, and what not.
The book also talks about pleasant memories, especially through pictures. Terry was also lucky to have acquaintance of some good drivers and guides and their families with whom he shared tea and meals. But I feel he was yet comfortable in West Africa may be due to routine travels or his appearance. He penned his personal experience but in between he also shared political and religious insights about the countries. Having read this book, I could gather that Senegal is progressing while rest four was stagnant after their rulers left i.e. France and Portugal. Be it anything, the book may not disappoint you, and provides better coverage than professional travel magazines. Good luck if you are going to Africa.
November 21, 2020
Immersed in West Africa is a first account of Terry Lister’s solo journey across several West African cities.
If you are ever planning to visit West Africa, you might want to read Immersed In West Africa. Terry Lister’s account of West Africa is not all “touristy” but a personal account of places worth visiting with the good and bad about these places. The author writes from the heart and that is what makes this book worth the read. Do not leave home before reading this book if you want the truth about travelling to West Africa.
I love the little titbits that the author provides throughout the book. Simple things like being aware that your drive might not know the direction to famous spots will better prepare you. Hearing about these small, but important details, can prepare the traveler for the unexpected. Terry clearly did a lot of research before travelling and that is why he knew the importance of carrying cash over credit cards in certain places.
Travel is an excellent way to understand the culture of other counties. In this remarkable and personal diary, Terry Lister shows what is awesome, and what is not, about West Africa. The author shares his travels through Senegal, Mauritania, Gambia, Guinea – Bissau, and Guinea. From Les Mamelles Lighthouse in Senegal to the Saala Waterfall in Guinea Conakry, Terry Lister keeps the reader entertained and informed from beginning to end.
If you are ever planning to visit West Africa, you might want to read Immersed In West Africa. Terry Lister’s account of West Africa is not all “touristy” but a personal account of places worth visiting with the good and bad about these places. The author writes from the heart and that is what makes this book worth the read. Do not leave home before reading this book if you want the truth about travelling to West Africa.
I love the little titbits that the author provides throughout the book. Simple things like being aware that your drive might not know the direction to famous spots will better prepare you. Hearing about these small, but important details, can prepare the traveler for the unexpected. Terry clearly did a lot of research before travelling and that is why he knew the importance of carrying cash over credit cards in certain places.
Travel is an excellent way to understand the culture of other counties. In this remarkable and personal diary, Terry Lister shows what is awesome, and what is not, about West Africa. The author shares his travels through Senegal, Mauritania, Gambia, Guinea – Bissau, and Guinea. From Les Mamelles Lighthouse in Senegal to the Saala Waterfall in Guinea Conakry, Terry Lister keeps the reader entertained and informed from beginning to end.
June 4, 2021
If the COVID-19 pandemic, or anything else, has temporarily halted your dream and your plans to travel to West Africa, Immersed in West Africa can be a fantastic way to travel vicariously in the meantime!
Terry Lister’s enthusiasm for first-hand experiences of the lands of the globe, and Senegal, Mauritania, The Gambia, Guinea and Guinea Bissau specifically, energized his writing in delightful ways. He was able to effectively draw the reader into his strong spirit of adventure as he recounted his solo journey through these interesting countries. One cannot but be inspired by his courage, time and again, as he explored diverse terrains which were totally new to him; negotiated country borders; endured very flexibly scheduled ground transportation systems (smile); adapted to a variety of foods; pressed through a few potentially dangerous situations; and more. His passion to, always in a spirit of good will and as unobtrusively as possible, engage with people living their daily lives also inspired.
The photographs throughout, carefully selected so as to be respectful of individuals’ privacy, helped to make one feel present, even if desiring to see more; and there was, likewise, just enough factual information about each country to whet the appetite to know much more about the people and their cultures.
The book is a quick and easy read, sure to entertain…a great way to spend a day or even a few hours! I give it five stars.
Terry Lister’s enthusiasm for first-hand experiences of the lands of the globe, and Senegal, Mauritania, The Gambia, Guinea and Guinea Bissau specifically, energized his writing in delightful ways. He was able to effectively draw the reader into his strong spirit of adventure as he recounted his solo journey through these interesting countries. One cannot but be inspired by his courage, time and again, as he explored diverse terrains which were totally new to him; negotiated country borders; endured very flexibly scheduled ground transportation systems (smile); adapted to a variety of foods; pressed through a few potentially dangerous situations; and more. His passion to, always in a spirit of good will and as unobtrusively as possible, engage with people living their daily lives also inspired.
The photographs throughout, carefully selected so as to be respectful of individuals’ privacy, helped to make one feel present, even if desiring to see more; and there was, likewise, just enough factual information about each country to whet the appetite to know much more about the people and their cultures.
The book is a quick and easy read, sure to entertain…a great way to spend a day or even a few hours! I give it five stars.
June 2, 2022
The book offers separate solo travel experience of five countries visited by Terry: Senegal, Mauritania, The Gambia, Guinea, and Guinea Bissau. It was his first trip to West Africa. He had a mixed experience and feeling for the people, officials, children and soil of these countries. He was amazed, hopeful, startled, entertained, exhausted and sometime little worried when rounded by corrupt people demanding money.
The author has heartfelt sympathy for the people of Africa. Terry lists down all sorts of experiences and visits like from falls to rivers to crocodile parks to museums to historical monuments. Also most of the countries were sizeably small, thus he was able to roam across in crowded mini buses and cars.
I never had views about West Africa, for me it was all wildlife safari, to my surprise this side of Africa is filled with pain and tribulation of local people and rich with history of colonization. Overall reading experience was great and lively, and the pictures from time to time did great entertainment. I could connect to some places and also searched a few locations on YouTube.
Terry is a true traveler. I love his enthusiasm, calm mind, and great patience. I don’t want to share any specific information about these countries, as he put a lot, hence be nice and be with Terry in his travel days.
The author has heartfelt sympathy for the people of Africa. Terry lists down all sorts of experiences and visits like from falls to rivers to crocodile parks to museums to historical monuments. Also most of the countries were sizeably small, thus he was able to roam across in crowded mini buses and cars.
I never had views about West Africa, for me it was all wildlife safari, to my surprise this side of Africa is filled with pain and tribulation of local people and rich with history of colonization. Overall reading experience was great and lively, and the pictures from time to time did great entertainment. I could connect to some places and also searched a few locations on YouTube.
Terry is a true traveler. I love his enthusiasm, calm mind, and great patience. I don’t want to share any specific information about these countries, as he put a lot, hence be nice and be with Terry in his travel days.
June 2, 2022
In short he toured 5 countries of West Africa: Senegal, Mauritania, The Gambia, Guinea and Guinea Bissau. Each country comes alive with its leftover colonized culture from their captors like Portugal and France and British. The book with real information is rich from history and cultural point of views, and Terry’s moment-of-the-day pictures make it worth believing.
I mean to say that Terry’s travel tenure was nothing less than a bulwark, whatever ups and downs he faced while being among the locals; Terry jotted it down with total conviction. His travel experience may sound uncomfortable or false to many but it also opens eyes for the rest of the world that has very little to know about these West African countries. I loved all the pictures and true detailing of events that he went through such as dealing with the corrupt border officials, struggling to get a proper seat in sept-place car or mini-bus travel, and his meals with locals, especially that tea in Mauritania. Among all countries, Mauritania enticed me a lot for its peculiar believes and charming desert of Atar city. Probably, I may go there one day but I will keep my cash stacked safe from the corrupt border officers. I wanted to know more about African countries through real stories, and thankfully Terry has many tales to tell via his book ‘Immersed in the West Africa’.
I mean to say that Terry’s travel tenure was nothing less than a bulwark, whatever ups and downs he faced while being among the locals; Terry jotted it down with total conviction. His travel experience may sound uncomfortable or false to many but it also opens eyes for the rest of the world that has very little to know about these West African countries. I loved all the pictures and true detailing of events that he went through such as dealing with the corrupt border officials, struggling to get a proper seat in sept-place car or mini-bus travel, and his meals with locals, especially that tea in Mauritania. Among all countries, Mauritania enticed me a lot for its peculiar believes and charming desert of Atar city. Probably, I may go there one day but I will keep my cash stacked safe from the corrupt border officers. I wanted to know more about African countries through real stories, and thankfully Terry has many tales to tell via his book ‘Immersed in the West Africa’.
May 25, 2020
Terry Lister’s Immersed in West Africa is a travelogue which is as descriptive as it is a commentary on the life and culture of West Africa. Reading through the book, one does not feel like reading a go-to guide but a piece of the author’s mind as he experiences new adventures through Senegal, Mauritania, and Gambia.
Since it is written in first person narrative which suits most travelogues, it gives carefree and wanderlust vibes to the reader.
Robben Island of South Africa, the oval island where Nelson Mandela spent years in isolation as a prisoner, I had to take a boat to reach Gorée.
While reading his travels through natural parks, heritage sites, cities, ports, and villages, one feels as if one is travelling with a local friend who explains both the history and significance of the place while making sure you are having a lot of fun. The book is informative enough for a non-native to get a fair idea about West Africa, whether it is the food habits or the culture. The author’s own photographs of places and people accompany and strengthen his voice since what is travel without visuals?
What I liked most about the book was the fact that it never got boring or seemed to drag on. Even the ending was quite abrupt and I wanted more from it.
Since it is written in first person narrative which suits most travelogues, it gives carefree and wanderlust vibes to the reader.
Robben Island of South Africa, the oval island where Nelson Mandela spent years in isolation as a prisoner, I had to take a boat to reach Gorée.
While reading his travels through natural parks, heritage sites, cities, ports, and villages, one feels as if one is travelling with a local friend who explains both the history and significance of the place while making sure you are having a lot of fun. The book is informative enough for a non-native to get a fair idea about West Africa, whether it is the food habits or the culture. The author’s own photographs of places and people accompany and strengthen his voice since what is travel without visuals?
What I liked most about the book was the fact that it never got boring or seemed to drag on. Even the ending was quite abrupt and I wanted more from it.
June 2, 2022
This is a highly accomplished book on five West African countries that the author toured and sojourned for almost two months. He starts from Senegal and ends at the same country but in between he travels across 4 more neighboring countries connected through roads. The book provides an honest account of a solo traveler from Bermuda. He comes to West Africa in high spirits but the struggle of life puts a challenge to his expedition. Never mind, he remains strong, fights the evils that were trying to bamboozle him and gains a handful of memories for back home.
What Terry traveled cannot be counted exactly in his words but his experience is motivational for others who fear to travel in Africa. He came with many ups and down but it was worth the effort. In addition to that Terry’s flow of narration was lucid, and has a sense of flow. It wasn’t abstract. He mainly focused on “where he is going and how”, he didn’t put much attention to detail on return journeys, because he started from Senegal and came back to the same country before flying to his home country. The book’s usefulness cannot be counted on fingers: it’s rich, deep, and honest. Terry represents truly a solo traveler. He is now one of my favourite travelers in the world.
What Terry traveled cannot be counted exactly in his words but his experience is motivational for others who fear to travel in Africa. He came with many ups and down but it was worth the effort. In addition to that Terry’s flow of narration was lucid, and has a sense of flow. It wasn’t abstract. He mainly focused on “where he is going and how”, he didn’t put much attention to detail on return journeys, because he started from Senegal and came back to the same country before flying to his home country. The book’s usefulness cannot be counted on fingers: it’s rich, deep, and honest. Terry represents truly a solo traveler. He is now one of my favourite travelers in the world.
June 2, 2022
Immersed in West Africa by Terry Lister is a wonderful and realistic travelogue about five African countries located in the West side of the continent. He travels through Senegal, Mauritania, The Gambia, Guinea, and Guinea Bissau.
He had a mixed sort of travel experience through these countries. He travelled by road, since most of the countries are connected. By going through the pictures given in the book, I can say that the author enjoyed despite being in difficult situations. He mainly faced transport issues, currency exchange and lack of ATM withdrawals, the most dreadful experience was securing money from the corrupt border officials. As shown in the movie Blood Diamond, crossing an African border without getting into difficulty is like securing a place in heaven. Above anything, Terry had to struggle a lot for a comfortable commute there...either cabs mini buses are overcrowded or roads are pathetic. True, he faced many difficulties at each level, yet gathered unforgettable experience about people, colonization, history, nature, and other many things. For each country, he has some valuable inputs to share from history to contemporary epoch.
He had a mixed sort of travel experience through these countries. He travelled by road, since most of the countries are connected. By going through the pictures given in the book, I can say that the author enjoyed despite being in difficult situations. He mainly faced transport issues, currency exchange and lack of ATM withdrawals, the most dreadful experience was securing money from the corrupt border officials. As shown in the movie Blood Diamond, crossing an African border without getting into difficulty is like securing a place in heaven. Above anything, Terry had to struggle a lot for a comfortable commute there...either cabs mini buses are overcrowded or roads are pathetic. True, he faced many difficulties at each level, yet gathered unforgettable experience about people, colonization, history, nature, and other many things. For each country, he has some valuable inputs to share from history to contemporary epoch.
June 2, 2022
On one side Africa is corrupt and out of order but on the other side it teems with natural beauty, rich history of colonization and slave trade. Terry’s travel was not all about bad people and frustration, he through his guide also got to meet good families with whom he shared meals and tea. The book is quite exhaustive about countries’ way of life. I was glad to note that Terry didn’t get into political situations of the country. Like a good traveler, he penned down what he saw and experienced.
Having seen so much in Africa as a solo traveler is nothing less than an achievement in itself. West Africa is ignored by mainstream media and tourist groups, however, Terry chose the less-traveled road and comes up with honest insights about these West African countries. He had put a lot of information without meddling it, he was right by providing information in a mild way. With persistence and patience, Terry didn’t spoil his tour. I don’t think so that I can ever travel to Africa but I am glad to experience through the eyes of Terry –the traveler. 5 countries and two months – truly Terry was immersed in West Africa.
Having seen so much in Africa as a solo traveler is nothing less than an achievement in itself. West Africa is ignored by mainstream media and tourist groups, however, Terry chose the less-traveled road and comes up with honest insights about these West African countries. He had put a lot of information without meddling it, he was right by providing information in a mild way. With persistence and patience, Terry didn’t spoil his tour. I don’t think so that I can ever travel to Africa but I am glad to experience through the eyes of Terry –the traveler. 5 countries and two months – truly Terry was immersed in West Africa.
June 27, 2020
I received a copy of Immersed in West Africa: My Solo Journey Across Senegal, Mauritania, The Gambia, Guinea and Guinea Bissau in exchange for my honest review. All opinions are, of course, my own.
**3.5 stars**
This was a quick and easy read and a great glimpse of West Africa. As a traveler, I was definitely intrigued.
Lister is very straight forward and informal in the book and it reads more like a blog post. I would have loved to have more description in the stories.
As someone already interested in the region, I still was fascinated, but for those that are not interested or have never heard of these countries, I would want them to be drawn in as well.
I love Lister's intrepid spirit, his disagreement with using animals or people as photo props or feeding wildlife, and overall love of travel and culture.
He is honest about his experiences, gives brief facts and history about each place, provides beautiful photos (although bigger would be better) and showcases his off the beaten path spirit.
**3.5 stars**
This was a quick and easy read and a great glimpse of West Africa. As a traveler, I was definitely intrigued.
Lister is very straight forward and informal in the book and it reads more like a blog post. I would have loved to have more description in the stories.
As someone already interested in the region, I still was fascinated, but for those that are not interested or have never heard of these countries, I would want them to be drawn in as well.
I love Lister's intrepid spirit, his disagreement with using animals or people as photo props or feeding wildlife, and overall love of travel and culture.
He is honest about his experiences, gives brief facts and history about each place, provides beautiful photos (although bigger would be better) and showcases his off the beaten path spirit.
May 13, 2021
“IMMERSED IN WEST AFRICA” – Terry Lister
My hat off to Terry Lister for this great book!
As an African in the diaspora, I was overcome with nostalgia as I read “Immersed In West Africa”. I was on the travels with Terry. Simply written, with vivid accounts of his experiences and photographs, the book takes you through a myriad of historical, cultural and social lives of the countries he visited.
Terry was really “immersed” in whatever location he was in. His interaction (positive or otherwise) with the locals, the officials, modes of transportation and the “ups & downs” in each country are well documented. The book is more than a travelogue.
“Immersed In West Africa” is a must read for all ages. It is fun to read as well as educational. Bearing in mind that we all react differently to situations, it is an authentic “guide” for anyone planning an African tour. It is indeed a great read.
I know he’s been to other continents, so I’m looking forward to his next book.
'Rotimi Martins.
January 18, 2023
Interesting journey to West Africa
This book is great for tourists who want to travel West Africa. It gives a lot of details and has photos of the various places that you can visit. The author provides tips and his view of the travel. You can learn a lot from reading this book. The culture and expectations. They don't get many tourists in these places. The currency used there is much lower in value once exchanged over to USD. I like that Terry is very detailed about his journey too. You can a realistic understanding and the time of day which he visits places.
This book is great for tourists who want to travel West Africa. It gives a lot of details and has photos of the various places that you can visit. The author provides tips and his view of the travel. You can learn a lot from reading this book. The culture and expectations. They don't get many tourists in these places. The currency used there is much lower in value once exchanged over to USD. I like that Terry is very detailed about his journey too. You can a realistic understanding and the time of day which he visits places.
September 7, 2020
Immersed in West Africa is good in its concept and the idea of traveling in less touristy areas. However, the poor editing and grammar hamper the book's flow. Several times I had to stop and reread the run-on or incomplete sentences as they did not make sense. A couple of typos did not help. Using more commas and a more thorough editing process would help. Aside from that, Terry shows the reader that despite its corruption, West Africa is a varied area in landscape and people. I have never traveled to Africa and would have liked to read more description on the foods, marketplaces, and types of vegetation. Given my limited knowledge of West Africa, I found the information in this book useful. From the uncertainty of transportation, dealing with border agents, and not knowing if places would be open, the author uses savvy and extreme patience in dealing with his situations. I will look forward to another travel book by this author if he uses more editing and description next time.
May 8, 2022
Fascinating and Insightful
While looking for something slightly different from what I normally read, I stumbled upon Terry Lister’s book Immersed in West Africa. This interesting story recounts his journey through various areas in Africa and what he faced during those travels. While the author found things of great beauty, like an oasis in the middle of the desert and the kindness of strangers, he also discovered some of the hidden truths: this being some of the worst criminals were the people in charge. Often trying to extort him for his money yet most often costing him precious time he could have otherwise been exploring. I did find it humorous when a simple business card dissuaded one attempt. If you are thinking of traveling to West Africa or just want to learn more about it, I recommend reading this book first; it may save you some of the headaches Mr. Lister faced during his trip.
While looking for something slightly different from what I normally read, I stumbled upon Terry Lister’s book Immersed in West Africa. This interesting story recounts his journey through various areas in Africa and what he faced during those travels. While the author found things of great beauty, like an oasis in the middle of the desert and the kindness of strangers, he also discovered some of the hidden truths: this being some of the worst criminals were the people in charge. Often trying to extort him for his money yet most often costing him precious time he could have otherwise been exploring. I did find it humorous when a simple business card dissuaded one attempt. If you are thinking of traveling to West Africa or just want to learn more about it, I recommend reading this book first; it may save you some of the headaches Mr. Lister faced during his trip.
May 13, 2021
It's a Nice BOOK!, straightforward writings and the maps, other pictures of different environments in the book made it as if I was travelling with the author of this book.
It's is a thoughtful approach to enjoy and understand the traditions, languages, culture of other locations or counties. Problems, experiences, etc., during the author's travel or others, are professed.
The book is wonderfully illustrated by several pictures in each chapter, making it easier to understand for all.
The fine-looking photographs help the author's experience and the journey comes to life for readers.
Well-written with clear explanations of the author's experiences, the book takes us through the author's innumerable historical, cultural and social lives.
Immersed in West Africa could be a good travel guide and adventure book for educating from different levels.
It's is a thoughtful approach to enjoy and understand the traditions, languages, culture of other locations or counties. Problems, experiences, etc., during the author's travel or others, are professed.
The book is wonderfully illustrated by several pictures in each chapter, making it easier to understand for all.
The fine-looking photographs help the author's experience and the journey comes to life for readers.
Well-written with clear explanations of the author's experiences, the book takes us through the author's innumerable historical, cultural and social lives.
Immersed in West Africa could be a good travel guide and adventure book for educating from different levels.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 78 reviews