Side Project: Getting McNuggets to Liberia West Africa

Sometimes travel is about the sights. Sometimes it’s about the people. And sometimes—every once in a while—it’s about delivering 20 precious Chicken McNuggets across continents because someone really misses American fast food.

This is the story of how a simple box of McNuggets made the long journey from the USA to Monrovia, Liberia, West Africa.

The Mission Begins in Nashville

The journey started innocently enough: another work trip to Liberia West Africa. In preparation, I asked Jean Francois what did he miss the most while stationed in Harbel, Liberia - Jean had done me a huge favor by agreeing to work in Liberia for 4 months on a project.

Without hesitation, he said: “McDonald’s Chicken McNuggets.”

Challenge accepted.

Securing the Goods in New York

After my flight from Nashville to New York, I headed straight for McDonald’s and ordered the most well-traveled McNuggets in fast-food history: a 20-piece box, fresh out of the fryer.

To protect the cargo, I had come prepared—a small collapsible cooler and a Ziploc bag. While at the counter and politely asked for a generous amount of ice. The staff didn’t even blink. The nuggets went into the cooler ready for a long trip ahead.

Overnight to Brussels — and a Helpful Cabin Crew

On the overnight flight from New York to Brussels, I decided honesty was the best policy. I explained to the cabin crew that I was transporting Chicken McNuggets halfway around the world and needed fresh ice to keep them chilled.

They didn’t laugh. Well—they did laugh, but in that supportive, delighted way that says, “We want to see how this story ends.”

Every few hours, they brought fresh ice, helping me maintain the integrity of my gourmet cargo.

After a layover in Brussels, Belgium, the next and last leg was a nine-hour flight to Monrovia, Liberia.

The cooler held up. The ice was doing its job. At this point, after two continents and a sleepless night, failure was not an option.

Touchdown in Monrovia — and Nugget Delivery

Finally, after 30 hours of travel, I landed in Monrovia, Liberia. I met up with Jean François, who had already been serving on the ground for a couple of months. When I produced the cooler and unveiled the 20-piece box of McDonald's goodness, he lit up like he’d just been handed treasure.

He reheated the McNuggets the next day in the oven at the guest house, savoring them for lunch. A simple American comfort food—delivered with the mileage of a professional athlete.

Why Would I do This?

Looking back, it was absurd - but if you know me, I sometimes get obsessed with the strangest things. It was a puzzle to solve and small way to show a little bit of support for a friend who made a personal sacrifice to help me and the people in Liberia.

If you ever find yourself asking whether a fast-food item can survive international travel, the answer is yes—with enough ice, a collapsible cooler, and the support of a very amused cabin crew.

Would I do it again? Absolutely.

If you want to read more about my travel to West Africa, click here ---------->>>>> Saved By Soccer

In addition, here is a link to a news article about our efforts to grow soccer teams in Liberia after the civil war ---->>>>> Equipping Soccer Teams In Liberia