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> Zaire [Democratic Republic of Congo]
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Social Profile
Food & Drink: There are a number of good restaurants in Kinshasa and Lubumbashi, but prices are high. Hotels and restaurants which cater for tourists are generally expensive and serve international and national dishes. A typical speciality is moambe chicken, cooked in fresh palm oil with rice and spinach. The capital Kinshasa offers French, Belgian and local cuisine, but again restaurants are expensive and cater essentially for business people. Small restaurants and snack bars offer Chinese, Tunisian and Greek food.
Nightlife: Kinshasa is the best place for nightlife, especially in the sprawling township of the Cité, where most of the population live. In spite of recent political turmoil, the local music scene is thriving. There are hundreds of dance clubs in Kinshasa. Congolese music is popular throughout Africa as well as in Europe and the USA.
Shopping: Local craftware includes bracelets, ebony carvings and paintings. The large towns all have markets and shopping centres, selling everything from fresh ginger to baskets and African carvings. Shopping hours: Mon-Sat 0800-1800.
Social Conventions: Casual clothes are widely suitable although scanty beachwear should be confined to the beach or poolside. Photography: A permit is required. Even then, local authorities are likely to be sensitive. Avoid official areas, airports and riverbanks. Tipping: Ten per cent service charge is added to hotel and restaurant bills. Extra tipping is unnecessary.
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