Who: Bill and Ann Duncan of Boulder with Somba woman.
Where: On the roof of a mud, fortresslike Somba house in Benin. Once known for their nudity, the Somba people now wear clothes but still hunt with bows and arrows. They are also devout animists.
Best meal: The Hotel Tata Somba in Natitingou, which serves good French food outdoors near the pool.
Best deal: The delicious, locally grown pineapples, mangoes, tomatoes and avocados sold by roadside vendors, plus crafts made by Benin artists: appliquéd banners, bronze and wooden sculptures and jewelry.
Best time to go: Late fall (October or November) after the rainy season, but be prepared for heat any time of year.
Best travel tip: Bring euros to convert into the local currency (CFAs), a hat and plenty of baby wipes. It is very hot and humid there.
