African Heartbeat Tour FAQs

Who is One World Arts Exchange?

One World Arts Exchange is a Connecticut based organization, founded in 1994 to foster intercultural appreciation through the arts. Abdoulaye Sylla is the Artistic Director of the organization. Laurie Sylla is the Founder and President of the organization.

What is Included in the Tour Fee?

The fee includes airport pick-up in Conakry, ground transportation for classes and tour events, lodging, three meals a day, all drum and dance classes (additional classes such as balafon or kora are extra), and excursions.

What is Not Included in the Tour Fee?

The fee does not include airfare, visa fees ($100 US), or bottled water. There is plenty of bottled water available in Guinea. You will be responsible for your own supply of drinking water. We recommend drinking at least two liters a day. Water is about $1.50 a liter, and will vary slightly.

Are There Cancellation Fees?

There is a cancellation fee of $250 for cancellations received at least one month in advance. There is a 25% cancellation fee for cancellations received within one month of the trip. Other cancellation fees may apply for specially purchased plane tickets.

What if I Want to Arrive or Leave on a Different Day?

We will do our best to accommodate you if you need to arrive on a different day. If you wish to stay longer, we can help you make these arrangements. Additional fees may apply for separate airport pick-up or drop-off.

What Will Our Accommodations Be Like?

We will stay in our home in Kobayah, a tranquil setting on the outskirts of Conakry, Guinea’s capital city. Accommodations have a western style toilet, showers, and electricity. We will have similar accommodations on the island of Fotoba. Running water and electricity may sometimes be interrupted. Rooms will be shared. You will be provided with a mattress and a mosquito net. Some places we visit will not have modern plumbing. Electricity is not always reliable, so be sure to bring a flashlight and extra batteries.

What Will Classes Be Like?

We will be hiring master artists from professional troupes to work exclusively with our group. Classes will take into account that a range of learners, from beginners through professionals, will be with us. You will learn about the culture and tradition associated with each dance and rhythm you are taught. You will be able to receive personal assistance from the instructors. Dance classes will be accompanied by live drumming. There will be at least four hours of class provided each weekday.

What If I’ve Never Danced or Drummed Before?

If you’ve never danced or drummed before, this is an exciting way to begin. You will be warmly encouraged to progress at your own pace. Guinean dance is energetic. Listen to your body and don’t push yourself beyond your limits.

Will We See Any Traditional Ceremonies?

You will have opportunities to attend traditional Sabar and Doundounba celebrations. These are typically open parties with a traditional dance circle, celebrating a wedding or other joyous event.

What is the Food Like?

Most of our meals will be home-cooked, prepared by members of Abdoulaye’s family. Meals usually consist of white rice with spicy fish, chicken, beef or goat stew and French bread. Breakfast is usually simple, consisting of French bread, tea, fruit, and sometimes eggs. We often will also have salad, French fries, or pasta if you wish. The fresh fruit in Guinea is plentiful and delicious. If you have special dietary needs please let us know in advance.

What is the Weather Like?

The weather will be hot (in the 90’s). We strongly recommend bringing battery operated fans.

What Language Do People Speak?

Several dozen indigenous languages are spoken; the most common in the region are Susu, Mandenke, and Pular. Most people speak French, which was the colonial language. Few people speak English. You will find communication easier if you make an effort to learn some basic French before you go. Bring a French-English dictionary or a phrase book if you want to be able to communicate on your own.

Is Guinea Safe?

Guinea has enjoyed a long period of relative political stability. The current president has been re-elected three times. Last year there was a nationwide strike over poor economic conditions, resulting in the President appointing a new Prime Minister. As with any foreign travel, no one can guarantee that a country’s situation will not change.

Can I receive College or CEU Credit for This Experience?

We will be happy to provide any needed documentation to allow you to receive independent study credit at your learning institution.

What Kind of Shots Do I Need?

Proof of Yellow Fever Vaccination is required for entry into Guinea. Malaria prophylaxis and additional vaccines are recommended. You can check with a travel clinic or the CDC, 404-639-3311.

Do I Need A Visa?

You must have a visa to enter Guinea. You need a letter of invitation and a passport that will be valid six months from the date of your return to get a visa. US Visas cost $100 and are available from the Guinea Consulate in New York or the Guinean Embassy in Washington DC. You should leave at least two weeks for processing. Upon receiving your deposit we will provide you with a letter of invitation and information on how to obtain your visa. For a $25 fee we will handle all aspects of coordinating your visa processing.

What Should I Bring?

The most important things to bring are a positive attitude, a willingness to be flexible, and an openness to experience another culture.

Useful items to bring include: personal toiletries, an adequate supply of any prescription medicines you take as well as a list of the medications and their dosages, over the counter remedies, sunscreen, mosquito repellant, flashlights with extra batteries, toilet paper or tissues, sheets and towels, a battery operated fan, handi-wipes, a French-English dictionary, comfortable walking shoes, shower shoes, books or magazines, pen and paper, a deck of cards, dance clothes, summer clothes, a walkman or ipod, camera with extra film or large memory stick, small gifts to give friends you meet, family photos, a good water filter or enough money to buy at least a half gallon of water a day, small padlocks to safeguard your belongings, a money belt to wear under your clothes, sunglasses, a photocopy of your passport, money for incidentals and souvenirs, a spray bottle, electricity converter (from 220 to 110- make sure it is strong enough for the wattage you plan to use), a notebook for journaling, a travel iron.

What Should I Leave Home?

Very short shorts (bare thighs are generally considered inappropriate); illicit drugs; impatience

Is it Possible to Get a Discount?

Groups of five or more that register together and pay in full at least one month in advance are eligible for a five percent discount.

Can I Send My Minor Child on the Trip?

Minors are welcome, but they MUST be accompanied by a parent or guardian.

Please Note: World Arts Exchange and Laurie and Abdoulaye Sylla are not responsible or liable for lost or stolen items, injury, illness, or unpredictable events. You agree to assume personal responsibility for yourself and any accompanying minor children. We reserve the right to refuse anyone we consider to be unfit for this trip.