October 17 2025 - A Birthday by the Sea: Turning 72 in M’Bour, Senegal

Location: M’Bour, Senegal

Episode Notes: Today was a special one — my 72nd birthday! And what better place to celebrate than right here on the Senegalese coast. The plan was simple: take it easy, enjoy the warm air, and have dinner in town to mark the occasion.

It made me think back to another memorable birthday years ago — this one on the opposite side of Africa, when I was on Mount Kilimanjaro, which I’ve climbed twice. In case you’re ever planning to go, here’s a tip: you don’t need fancy gear for Kilimanjaro — it’s a walk-up mountain. What you really need is time to acclimatize, ideally five days (three and a half up, one and a half down). The climb is pricey these days, but with guides and porters included, it’s worth it for the experience.