A few days later, I began a week long exercise in calling and emailing this merchant to track my shipment. Phone calls and emails were notanswered (I must have left six different phone messages and an equal number of emails). I did connect oncevia phone with a young sounding, gum chewing woman who had very loud music playing in the background. She seemed perturbed that she had to listen to me -I was calm and inquiring, not by any means angry or impatient. She took my name and phone and the order info and promised to call back. Never received a response that day and so I resumed calling and emailing and leaving messages.

Left on a week's vacation out of the country and upon my return, still had no indication product was shipped. I called again on Sunday Dec. 18 and finally spoke with a guy named Ray (believe he's the owner). He promised to look into my order and he actually did call back within an hour. Told me there was an address problem but that he'd ship the product that day and I should get in time for Christmas. Product did not arrive until after Christmas.

Deal with this company at your own risk. Although I did receive my merchandise, it was not without a lot of trouble and frustration. They/he does not have any regard for customers or their timelines. He's doing business despite himself and his disregard for his customers. I personally believe in customer service - if you're going to sell on the ionternet, then you need to be responsive, not evasive. I wouldn't spend another dime with African Imports if they were the last retailer selling their type of goods left in the world. Caveat emptor!!!!