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Immersed in West Africa: My Solo Journey Across Senegal, Mauritania, The Gambia, Guinea and Guinea Bissau (Kindle) (Travels With Terry Book 1) Kindle Edition

4.2 4.2 out of 5 stars 132 ratings

Immersed in West Africa is a powerful on the ground diary of one man’s solo journey through West Africa. This is NOT a cookie-cutter guidebook.
For roughly two months 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 embraced it all. This was the real Africa.
But not all travel is endless sunsets and warm experiences in the presence of beautiful people. Lister sees and shares the hardships of travel,too. 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. He does not sugarcoat the experience of travelling in these countries. His accounts are raw and honest. This is travelling at its most essential.
Lister shows us that while Africa is still the brunt of many jokes and misconceptions, the five countries he visits should be high up your personal list of must visit places. Immersed in West Africa unveils the Africa beyond the big tours, inspiring travelers to step out with courage and faith to experience the reality of life in West Africa beyond the classic tourist brochure.
Lister showcases his experiences of travel so that you can step boldly along your own path and plot an adventure into West Africa knowing what to expect and how to handle it. So let’s step into this adventure together!
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Editorial Reviews

Review

Award-Winning Excellence for Immersed in West Africa

This celebrated work has garnered global recognition, winning multiple prestigious awards:
  • Book Excellence Award (2021) - Finalist
  • Incipere Award for Adventure (2020)
  • Independent Press Award (2021) - Distinguished Favorite, Travel
  • Pinnacle Book Award (2021) - Winner, Travel Adventure
  • Top Shelf Book Awards (2022) - Winner, Travel
Explore the captivating solo journey across Senegal, Mauritania, The Gambia, Guinea, and Guinea-Bissau, experiencing authentic African culture and adventure through an award-winning lens!

Reviews for Immersed in West Africa

Author Reviews:
Rick Antonson, Author of To Timbuktu for a Haircut
"I'm glad that Terry Lister's book came my way. There are many books about West Africa, but few follow a solo traveler into all these countries, and that makes his experiences a pleasure to read—and his guidance and subtle advice truly helpful. Perhaps if I'd had Terry's book before I wrote To Timbuktu for a Haircut, I would have journeyed in his footsteps in the two Guineas and Mauritania. Terry Lister is an upfront writer and recounts both unusual and commonplace encounters in an engaging style."


Baba, the Storyteller
"The author has provided an honest and detailed account of what it feels like to travel throughout West Africa. I found his experiences in Mauritania to be the most harrowing but consistent with his encounters in the other West African countries. I found myself sharing in his discomfort with the cramped local travel and sometimes even miffed at the constantly breaking-down vehicles. What I appreciated overall was his joy of travel. There is definitely a sense of wonder and adventure that permeates the book."


Anne Risco, Author
"I love the way his childhood muse fueled his retirement lifestyle and that he incorporated maps and pictures of his travels. The author has a historical lesson included in his ventures with a personal connection motivating him that you can feel and connect with as he shares his feelings and experiences. I highly recommend this book of hidden gems."


Susie Hetrick, Author
"This is an excellent account of a man's travels throughout Africa. It's very educational as I learned a lot about the country and their practices. It's interesting to learn about the culture, food, indigenous animals, and their ways of life. The pictures are also a very nice touch."


Joshua Grant, Author
"Terry Lister takes us on a fun and interesting journey through Africa in Immersed in West Africa! This travel 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!"


Jason Newman, Author
"Many good and bad experiences and many great pictures to illustrate them. Not a travel guide; it's a travel story told from the perspective of the man next door."


Preeti Rajput, Author
"One of the finest travelogues I came across in recent times. After a few chapters, you are no longer a reader but a co-traveler. This book has opened up a gateway to the unexplored world."

Additional Amazon Reviews:

Amazon Reviews
"Lister's ability to find humor and humanity in every situation is remarkable, and his journey is a reminder that the greatest adventures are often found off the well-trodden path."

Amazon Reviews
"I sensed that the time spent absorbing the natural beauty of the various countries and interacting with people from all walks of life were just what the author wanted. This was a most enjoyable read."

Amazon Reviews
"Do yourself a favor and view the history and culture of West Africa through a different lens."

Reedsy Reviews
"Laced with gentle humor and wry wit, this travel tome is a delicious blend of information, entertainment, and inspiration. You'll love it!" —
Kristine L.


"Immersed in West Africa is a firsthand account of Terry Lister's solo journey across several West African cities." —
Mardene Carr


"A hands-on account of traveling in West Africa that shows despite stereotypes and corrupt governments, West Africa is wild and beautiful." —
Kelly Schadt-Kelly


If you enjoyed Immersed in West Africa and found value in this journey, please take a moment to leave a review. Your feedback not only supports the author but also helps other readers discover this enriching adventure. Thank you for your support!

From the Author

Immersed in West Africa is a dream to read. Along the way, the reader experiences vicariously the author's experiences traveling throughout West Africa. Lister is the consummate guide for this journey. His stories and anecdotes are fresh and original, and the photography which appears throughout the book is stunning. Each picture is perfectly exposed and lit, revealing the beauty, culture, and history of the places he visited. As I settled in to read this most impressive travelogue, I was impressed by how much fun reading it actually was. Lister's writing style is fluent and conversational, and his stories are endlessly entertaining. Whether you're an armchair adventurer or someone seriously considering a trip to Africa, Lister's guide is a perfect place to start your journey. Immersed in West Africa is most highly recommended.   Readers Favorite

Product details

  • ASIN ‏ : ‎ B07WH7JH6G
  • Publisher ‏ : ‎ Book Power Publishing (Niyah Press) (August 29, 2019)
  • Publication date ‏ : ‎ August 29, 2019
  • Language ‏ : ‎ English
  • File size ‏ : ‎ 34.7 MB
  • Simultaneous device usage ‏ : ‎ Unlimited
  • Text-to-Speech ‏ : ‎ Enabled
  • Enhanced typesetting ‏ : ‎ Not Enabled
  • X-Ray ‏ : ‎ Not Enabled
  • Word Wise ‏ : ‎ Enabled
  • Print length ‏ : ‎ 153 pages
  • Page numbers source ISBN ‏ : ‎ 1945873191
  • Customer Reviews:
    4.2 4.2 out of 5 stars 132 ratings

About the author

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Terry Lister
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Terry Lister is a traveller and a writer. Prior to that he was a partner in Deloitte accounting firm, a Minister in the Government of Bermuda and a realtor. He retired at 60 and has been a solo traveller for the past Ten years and now has been to 108 countries including 28 in Africa.

Since retiring, when he’s not travelling, Lister spends time with his family, relaxes with a good book, or sits down to watch his favourite cricket and football teams.

Website: Terry lister

Facebook page: Terry lister

Customer reviews

4.2 out of 5 stars
132 global ratings

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Customers say

Customers find the narrative captivating and eye-opening, transporting them beyond tourist traps into the authentic lives of the people. They describe the book as an entertaining and enriching read that peaked their interest from start to finish. Readers appreciate the educational value, enlightening content, and thoughtful writing style.

AI-generated from the text of customer reviews

24 customers mention "Narrative quality"24 positive0 negative

Customers enjoy the narrative quality of the book. They find it an engaging journey through the heart of West Africa, offering an in-depth look at varied cultures and undiscovered beauty. The storytelling transports them beyond tourist traps into the authentic lives of the people. Readers appreciate the author's descriptions and photographs, which take them through a myriad of historical, cultural, and social lives.

"...narrative immerses you in the sights, sounds, and complexities of five diverse countries, all while sharing personal reflections, cultural insights,..." Read more

"...It is NOT a travel guide. It is more like antidotes. short narratives. I enjoyed this." Read more

"...this isn’t a typical travel guide, it provides a great look into what real travel is like: the ups, the downs, and the surprises along the way...." Read more

"...in West Africa" isn't just a travelogue; it's a raw, unfiltered look at the beauty, challenges, and unexpected joys of solo travel...." Read more

15 customers mention "Readability"15 positive0 negative

Customers find the book engaging and entertaining. They describe it as an eye-opening read that immerses them in the sights, sounds, and complexities of African life. Readers appreciate the balance of humor, heartfelt moments, and educational content.

"...The book’s balance of humor, heartfelt moments, and educational content offers an enriching experience for anyone interested in African culture and..." Read more

"...The Gambia, Guinea and Guinea-Bissau" by Terry Lister is a truly captivating and eye-opening read...." Read more

"...isn't just a travelogue; it's a raw, unfiltered look at the beauty, challenges, and unexpected joys of solo travel...." Read more

"...the different cultures he encountered, and the challenges he faced while exploring new places...." Read more

14 customers mention "Educational value"14 positive0 negative

Customers find the book educational and enlightening. They appreciate the author's first-hand knowledge and say it is an inspiring read that educates as well as entertains.

"...The book’s balance of humor, heartfelt moments, and educational content offers an enriching experience for anyone interested in African culture and..." Read more

"...Terry Lister’s journey will spark your curiosity about the world and inspire you to look beyond the usual destinations...." Read more

"...about the areas/locations he visits but does give you enough information for the reader to decide whether you would want to visit...." Read more

"...for history and culture shines through, making the book both an educational resource and an adventurous travelogue...." Read more

7 customers mention "Writing style"7 positive0 negative

Customers appreciate the engaging writing style and authentic approach of the author. They find the book an entertaining and thoughtful read with colorful photographs and stories from his journeys to Africa.

"...the photos are in black and white. the writing is engaging...." Read more

"...to read it on my Desktop Kindle app, but I appreciate the authentic approach of the author...." Read more

"...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..." Read more

"I purchased this well written book, “lmmersed in West Africa”, which for me is an eye opening scenario...." Read more

Top reviews from the United States

  • Reviewed in the United States on February 28, 2025
    Immersed in West Africa: My Solo Journey Across Senegal, Mauritania, The Gambia, Guinea, and Guinea Bissau (Travels With Terry Book 1) is a captivating travel memoir that takes readers on an unforgettable journey through the heart of West Africa. Terry's engaging narrative immerses you in the sights, sounds, and complexities of five diverse countries, all while sharing personal reflections, cultural insights, and the challenges of traveling solo in a region that is both beautiful and raw.

    The author’s vivid descriptions bring each country to life, whether it’s navigating bustling markets in Senegal or encountering the remote landscapes of Guinea-Bissau. Terry’s openness and sense of adventure make the journey relatable, yet inspiring, for both seasoned travelers and those dreaming of future explorations. The book’s balance of humor, heartfelt moments, and educational content offers an enriching experience for anyone interested in African culture and solo travel.

    An insightful and engaging read for all wanderlust-driven souls!
  • Reviewed in the United States on October 7, 2020
    The print and pages are nicely put together. the photos are in black and white. the writing is engaging. What makes this unique it is a Black man from Bermuda traveling to lesser known parts of Africa. It is more like a journal, but has insights that is not on the beaten path. It is NOT a travel guide. It is more like antidotes. short narratives. I enjoyed this.
    2 people found this helpful
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  • Reviewed in the United States on January 10, 2025
    Immersed in West Africa: My Solo Journey Across Senegal, Mauritania, The Gambia, Guinea and Guinea-Bissau" by Terry Lister is a truly captivating and eye-opening read. As a solo traveler, Terry takes us on an adventure through parts of West Africa that many people might not know much about. What I loved most about this book was how it felt more like a conversation with a friend than just a travelogue. Terry shares his personal experiences both the joys and challenges giving readers a real sense of what it’s like to travel through these countries.

    The book is packed with interesting details about the cultures, transportation, food, and even the history of the places Terry visits. It’s not just about sightseeing; Terry gets deeply immersed in the local life. His interactions with the people from the friendly and welcoming to the not-so-pleasant are authentic and honest, and I felt like I was right there with him. The challenges he faces, from border crossings to transportation mishaps, make the story feel even more real and relatable.

    I also loved the photos he included they really help bring the experience to life and give readers a better idea of the places he’s describing. And while this isn’t a typical travel guide, it provides a great look into what real travel is like: the ups, the downs, and the surprises along the way.

    If you're looking for a book that offers more than just tourist attractions, this is it. Terry Lister’s journey will spark your curiosity about the world and inspire you to look beyond the usual destinations. It’s fun, educational, and a great reminder that travel has the power to connect us all. Highly recommend this book to anyone interested in a unique and honest take on travel.
  • Reviewed in the United States on December 14, 2020
    If you're looking for a story that would make you want to go to a certain country after reading about it, this may or may not be the book for you. For some reason I thought the writer was covering the majority of West African countries but he states in the book at this was only an eight-week journey (or there abouts). The writer is not deeply descriptive about the areas/locations he visits but does give you enough information for the reader to decide whether you would want to visit. The photos could have been a little brighter as many are too dark for a printed book. But, overall, if this is the writer's first foray into travel writing, it's not too bad. I will say that more black people, in the US and the Diaspora, need to write more travel books.
  • Reviewed in the United States on March 7, 2025
    Just imagine you’re embarking on an unforgettable armchair adventure with Terry as he plunges headfirst into the vibrant heart of West Africa! "Immersed in West Africa" isn't just a travelogue; it's a raw, unfiltered look at the beauty, challenges, and unexpected joys of solo travel.

    Visualize yourself navigating bustling markets in Senegal, crossing the vast deserts of Mauritania, and losing yourself in the lush landscapes of The Gambia, Guinea, and Guinea-Bissau. Terry's captivating storytelling transports you beyond tourist traps and into the authentic lives of the people he encounters. This isn't a sterile itinerary…it's a journey filled with laughter, unexpected detours, and moments of profound connection. Like myself you to will be inspired, challenged, and utterly captivated by this incredible solo adventure. Open this book and prepare to see West Africa through a new lens, as Terry proves that the greatest adventures often happen when you step outside your comfort zone. I highly recommend this book!!!

Top reviews from other countries

  • Mark S.
    5.0 out of 5 stars Interesting travelogue.
    Reviewed in Canada on January 10, 2022
    "The world we live in is so interconnected that individuals should take the opportunity to see the place from which the interconnections that matter in their lives are coming from."

    You've got to respect someone who chooses to solo explore countries totally foreign to his own in every way. As the author shares, travel does provide the best possible education and he clearly writes about his experiences: historical sites, landmarks, points of interest, interactions with guides and families that welcomed him into their homes. He also details the various complications you would expect with transportation, bookings, border entries, corrupt officers, currency scams, etc..

    Books like this should be required reading in schools and travel should be strongly encouraged for people of all ages as in the world today perhaps only at least some measure of travel can build bridges between peoples and cultures. Without travel, off-resort, our minds all too easily become closed.

    This book may or may not get you interested in booking a ticket to Dakar but it will spark your imagination and curiosity for travel and more meaningful exploration in your life.
  • Imaobong Okon
    5.0 out of 5 stars An unforgettable read
    Reviewed in the United Kingdom on February 28, 2025
    Terry Lister’s Immersed in West Africa is a vibrant and heartfelt journey through West Africa’s rich cultures, history, and landscapes. His immersive storytelling, genuine curiosity, and personal reflections make this travel memoir both engaging and enlightening. A perfect blend of adventure, education, and inspiration
  • Linda King
    5.0 out of 5 stars West African Odyssey
    Reviewed in Australia on January 26, 2022
    Terry has done it again! In his book "Immersed in West Africa", he gives you a taste of what to expect travelling through Senegal, Mauritania, The Gambia, Guinea & Guinea Bissau.
    His honest and forthright depiction of the destinations is highly refreshing with a bit of humour thrown in.
    The comments about "Terry being loaded" cracked me up! 5 stars
  • Rick Antonson
    5.0 out of 5 stars A tremendous recounting of solo travels in countries few people get to visit
    Reviewed in Canada on October 15, 2021
    I'm glad that Terry Lister's book came my way. There are many books about West Africa but few follow a solo traveller into all these countries, and that makes his experiences a pleasure to read -- and his guidance and subtle advice truly helpful. Perhaps if I'd had Terry's book before I wrote To Timbuktu for a Haircut, I would have journeyed in his footsteps in the two Guineas and Mauritania. Terry Lister is an upfront writer and recounts both unusual and common place encounters in an engaging style.
  • Hela Kujal
    5.0 out of 5 stars An invitation to see the world.
    Reviewed in the United Kingdom on July 27, 2024
    This is more than just a travel book; it's an invitation to see the world through new eyes. Lister's ability to find humor and humanity in every situation is remarkable, and his journey is a reminder that the greatest adventures are often found off the well-trodden path.

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