Lize-Mari Ras
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Rwanda – Travel Guide

Facts to assist you while travelling to Rwanda.

 

Rwandan population

  • 14 million.

Official Language(s)

  • English, French, Kinyarwanda, Swahili.

Currency

  • Rwandan Franc.

Office Hours

  • 07:00 – 16: 00.

Weekend

  • Saturday – Sunday.

Time Zone

  • UTC +2.

Calling Code

  • +250.

Tipping

  • If a service charge is not included in the bill a tip of 10% is acceptable.

Embassies

  • Most countries are represented by embassies or consulates located in the capital city.

Government

  • Paul Kagame is the president of Rwanda. He has been in office since 2000.

Climate

  • Although Rwanda is located only two degrees south of the equator, the country’s high elevation makes the climate temperate. The average daily temperature near Lake Kivu, at an altitude of 4,800 feet (1,463 m) is 73 °F (22.8 °C). During the two rainy seasons- one of which lasts from February to May and the other from September to December- heavy downpours occur almost daily, alternating with sunny weather. Annual rainfall averages 800 mm (31.5 in) and is generally heavier in the western and northwestern mountains than in the eastern savannas.

Transport

  • The main airport in Rwanda is the Kigali International Airport, located in the country’s capital. The transport system in Rwanda centres primarily around the road network. Paved roads lie between the capital, Kigali, and most other major cities and towns in the country. Rwanda is also linked by road with other countries in the African Great Lakes, via which the majority of the country’s imports and exports are made. There are currently no railways in Rwanda. There are occasional boat services on Lake Kivu, between the major ports of Cyangugu, Kibuye and Gisenyi but these do not run to a regular timetable and often have to be chartered.

Economy

  • Rwanda’s economy is primarily based on subsistence agriculture. Cash crops such as coffee and tea make up a large portion of the country’s exports. Rwanda’s tourism sector is growing rapidly and has become the country’s leading foreign exchange earner. Its main industries contributing to its GDP include cement, agricultural products, small-scale beverages, soap, furniture, shoes, plastic goods, textiles, and cigarettes.

Hospitality

  • The local community in Rwanda play a big role in maintaining social order. When crimes are committed or disputes occur, a council of elders will convene to reach a fair settlement in a process known as ‘’agacaca.’’ Rwandan culture places significant emphasis on practices of etiquette that demonstrate respect and emphasize social rank – in the family as well as in the community and broader society. Within the family, chairs are traditionally reserved for men, while other family members sit on mats on the floor. Men eat first, while women and children eating after. Visitors are given the best chairs and the first choice of food and drink.

Greetings

  • Visitors have observed that there is no standard handshake or greeting in Rwanda. Rather, every greeting means something different according to the parties meeting. Some of the most common greetings for different occasions include:
      1. The hobera, which is mostly reserved for family or long-lost friends. It is a full embrace with back-slapping.
      2. The head rub, which is considered a greeting reserved for people whom you respect or are on a similar level to you.
      3. The elbow embrace, which is the safest one to administer without causing offence. Both parties lean in to embrace their elbows in each hand, tilt their heads and inquire about the wellbeing of their family.

Money

  • The Rwandan franc (RWF) is the official currency of Rwanda. It is subdivided into 100 centimes. The franc has been the currency of Rwanda since 1916, before which Rwanda used the currency of the Belgian Congo until 1960, when the Rwanda and Burundi franc was introduced. Rwanda began issuing its own francs two years after gaining independence, in 1962.

Transportation

  • Rwanda’s transport system centres primarily around the road network. The majority of paved roads are in the capital, Kigali, and other major cities and towns in the country. The most convenient way to travel in the country is by car. Smaller roads are frequently unpaved and of various qualities as the rainy season sometimes affects the state of the roads. Taxis operate in the cities and larger towns. The most popular form of public transport is shared minibuses. In the capital, Kigali, buses operate a smart card system called Tap&Go.

Safety

  • Rwanda is one of the safest destinations to travel to and settle in, in Africa. Crime in Rwanda is relatively low, but visitors may sometimes experience petty crime. Pickpockets are most active in crowded places, such as markets. However violent crimes against travelers are rare. Locals are welcoming, friendly and hospitable. Women travellers are advised to dress modestly out of respect for the local culture. While homosexuality isn’t illegal in Rwanda, it is not widely accepted either, and still considered a taboo. The country is quite conservative, and there are reports that local LGBTQ+ people experience prejudice and discrimination. Although there are certainly other African countries that are considered more homophobic, it is best for LGBTQ+ travelers remain discreet at all times.

Culture

  • The Rwandan society is based on gender roles and hierarchical. Older people are shown the utmost respect, and work is generally divided between men and women accordingly. Men also do heavy jobs around the house, such as construction, while women are responsible for maintaining the household, raising children, and preparing food. Artistic expressions have always taken precedence in Rwandan culture, especially through music and dance. With the changing of times and the development of the country, instrumental and vocal music are no longer as common as they once were, with recorded music and public performances in clubs becoming more common. The tradition of dance in Rwanda is also quite rich and significant to the culture. There are different types of dances that are important to different ethnic groups, and performed at different events, festivals, or times of the year.

Shops

  • Rwanda has a number of modern shopping centres and malls that resembles those found in western countries. Shopping in this country should be hassle free, especially in the capital city and other urban areas. There are also a multitude of online stores for the convenience of all shoppers.

 

 

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Written by Saudika Hendricks

Edited by Eloise Williams

Lize-Mari Ras
,

Why Cape Town is like Southern California on Steroids!

For travellers, Cape Town isn’t only the best city in Africa – but it also beat out Middle Eastern cities!

 

The Mother City received some much-needed love from Travel + Leisure for their World’s Best Awards by taking the top crown on the continent. It won against the likes of Jerusalem, Marrakesh, Beirut and even Dubai, with one respondent from the survey calling Cape Town “Southern California on steroids!”

 

But the city doesn’t only just encapsulates the spirit of this well-known stretch of US coastline – Cape Town is an all-in-one city with a wide-ranging appeal that attracts foodies, cultural enthusiasts, urbanites and even nature lovers.

 

So much so, that it can easily stand in for other spots around the world besides Southern California – join us on this global tour that can all be done in just one place!

 

Eat like You’re in London

When you think of foodie cities in the world, the sprawling streets of London is definitely high up on the list. While it’s not necessarily the traditional English cuisine that people flock to its restaurants for, it’s the fusions of a world of cultures that have become entrenched in the fabric of the city – the curry scents drifting through the streets, European cuisine made by world-famous chefs and even the classic fish-and-chips rolled up in newspapers.

 

Well in Cape Town you’ll find this and more – our Cape Malaysian cuisine is an important part of the city’s culture and just a quick walk down Long and Kloof Street will let you travel the world just through food. We also have one of the best restaurants in the world – FYN – and for those with lighter wallets can always head to Hout Bay for classic fish-and-chips while indulging in the sea air.

 

Preserved Heritage like Singapore

In a modern city like Singapore, you might not really think of historical cultural sites surviving the onslaught of new skyscrapers and architectural marvels taking over the skyline. But the city-state actually has a very solid conservation plan when it comes to renovating and up-keeping their historical buildings, especially in places like Joo Chiat which became Singapore’s first heritage town as a traditional Peranakan cultural enclave.

 

Cape Town has similar cultural sites and architectural heritage that’s fighting for conservation – specifically our colourful Bo-Kaap suburb. The area recently won conservation status to protect its streets and homes from developers, retaining the Muslim community’s history and identity for the benefit of the whole city.

 

San Francisco-style Urban Living

San Francisco is one of the most picturesque cities in the world – and with that comes a laid-back lifestyle that’s actually quite active for its urban surroundings. Young professionals and creatives flock from all over to take part in its vibrancy, very much like a city of our own.

 

The Mother City has been compared to this US one numerous times, especially because you don’t even have to travel outside the city to take a hike in nature – all thanks to the iconic Table Mountain. When the sun glints early in the morning on the fog that can descend without notice on its buildings, you might do a double take to not confuse it with San Francisco. Another feature the two cities share is that both have a world-famous prison island – Alcatraz for the US and Robben Island for SA.

 

Wine it up like Bordeaux

France’s Bordeaux region is probably one of the most well-known wine regions in the world – producing some of the biggest award-winners and most expensive cultivars for those with a refined nose. Not only is the wine exquisite, but its vineyards and tasting rooms drip in old-school winemaking charm, creating unforgettable wine experiences.

 

But you don’t have to be a millionaire to enjoy amazing wine – or even travel far into the countryside. Cape Town obviously has not only some of the best wine in South Africa, but also some of the oldest, and wine farm stalwarts like Groot Constantia have even produced wine favoured by world history icons like Napoleon Bonaparte, Frederick the Great and Louis Phillipe.

 

Beaches that Rival that of Ipanema

Few beaches in Brazil are as famous as Rio de Janeiro’s Ipanema Beach, hugely popular for sunbathing, surfing and watching the sun set over the blue horizon. But there’s more to the beach than its sandy beauty – high-end restaurants and bars line the beachfront, luring in those looking for the perfect sundowner.

 

But you don’t have to travel to Brazil for this kind of beach experience – Cape Town’s beaches have consistently ranked in the top lists around the world. Some are less popular offering quiet escapes from the big summer crowds, while others have a vibey party atmosphere spurred on by long days on the Camps Bay beach before heading into the cocktail haven of its beachfront road. Ipanema who?

 

Berlin’s Art Scene Rediscovered in Cape Town

It all started with the fall of the wall – since then artists from around the world have flocked to the multicultural landscape of Germany’s Berlin where they are welcomed with open arms. Hundreds of galleries, famous international artists and long stretches of street art have turned the city into a major art hub.

 

But Cape Town is hot on its heels – First Thursdays have put a major spotlight on the city’s many art galleries making it accessible to all, and since the opening of the Zeits MOCAA contemporary art museum African works have found another foothold not just in the city but in the world. And when it comes to street art, just take a tour through Woodstock and Salt River where not only locals have unleashed their creativity but international artists as well.

 

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Lize-Mari Ras
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The Republic of Congo – Travel Guide

Facts to assist you while travelling to the Republic of Congo.

 

Population of Congo

  • 6 million.

 

Official Language(s)

  • French, Kituba, Lingala.

 

Currency

  • Central African CFA franc.


Office Hours

  • 07:00 – 15:30.

 

Weekend

  • Saturday – Sunday.

 

Time Zone

  • UTC +1.

 

Calling Code

  • +242.

 

Tipping

  • If a service charge is not included in the bill a tip of 10% is acceptable.

 

Embassies

  • Most countries are represented by embassies or consulates located in the capital city.

 

Government

  • Denis Sassou Nguesso is the president of the Republic of Congo and has been in office since 1997.

 

Climate

  • The Republic of Congo is situated along the Equator, and therefore has an equatorial climate. This entails that the weather is generally humid and warm. In the northern parts of the country the weather is hot and humid all year round, with no real dry season. While in the southern and central regions of the country, the weather is more tropical.

 

Transport

  • The main airport in the Republic of Congo is the Maya-Maya Airport, located in Brazzaville. Other forms of transport in the country include land, air and water transportation. The country has a large port on the Atlantic Ocean at Pointe Noire and others along the Congo River at Brazzaville and Impfondo. The Congo-Ocean Railway connects Brazzaville and Pointe-Noire. There are three main national highways; N1, N2, and N3.

 

Economy

  • The main industries in Congo that contributes towards its GDP include petroleum extraction, cement, lumber, brewing, sugar, palm oil, soap, flour, cigarettes. The country’s economy is largely dependent on agriculture, oil, and support services. Oil is another primary source of government revenues and exports.

 

Hospitality

  • The Republic of the Congo is a predominantly rural nation, as 56.98 % of the country’s population live in rural areas. There is a stark contrast between the way citizens live in the rural spaces compared to that of urban spaces, owing to the influence of western values. Rural communities in Congo take pride in their traditional way of life and tend to be more conservative. Congolese people are typically more formal when conducting business, especially with strangers. Politeness is emphasized and expected from all the members of the society regardless of their social status.

 

Greetings

  • There are over 200 different ethnic groups living in Congo, each with their own distinct customs and language. The most common language spoken in the country is Lingala, which is also the lingua franca. Other widely spoken languages include French, Swahili, and Kikongo. Due to the multitude of languages throughout the country, it is important that when greeting someone, you use the appropriate language for the person you are greeting. If you speak Lingala, the most common greeting you can use is “Mbote.” If you speak French, you can say “Bonjour,’’ if you speak Swahili, you can say “Habari,” and if you speak Kikongo, you can say “Moni.’’

 

Money

  • The Central African franc or CFA is the official currency of the Republic of Congo, as is for many other central African countries. The CFA is linked to the Euro by a fixed exchange rate of 1 Euro for 655.957 CFA Francs. The equivalence with other currencies is dependent on the fluctuations of the Euro.

 

Transportation

  • Public transportation is only available in the two main cities, so it is advised that you hire a car if you are travelling anywhere else in the country. Driving occurs on the right-hand side in Congo, and it is best to drive an SUV while here due to the country’s driving conditions and roads. The rules of the road in Congo are not implemented, and citizens tend to drive fast and aggressively. Going over the speed limit is common, and police officers often accept bribes.

 

Safety

  • The Republic of Congo is a safe country to travel to. Petty crimes occur mostly in the capital cities, so make sure to take necessary precautions. It is better to travel in large groups, with a tour guide, or with a local who has experience and knows the areas. You will be required to follow the country’s health and safety protocols to ensure a smooth and secure visit. Although there are no laws against homosexuality in the Republic of the Congo, many locals and visitors who are part of the LGBTQ+ community have reported that they have faced discrimination and harassment. For your personal safety, it is best keeping public displays of affection to a minimum and avoid talking about sexual orientation to avoid causing offense.

 

Culture

  • The Republic of Congo is renowned for its diversity and rich cultures. The pre-colonial expressions and celebrations typically revolved around music, dances, and the sculpting of tribal figurines. Some of this is still present in their cultures today, but to a much lesser degree. However, colonialism inevitably affected the traditional way of life of the locals, and since then the population has adopted more modern cultural aspects, due to the influence of western culture. However, locals still uphold some traditional systems. Children are expected to show respect to those older than them, and girls are taught how to care for their younger siblings and assist their parents from a young age. Elders and leaders deserve the most respect.

 

Shops

  • The Republic of Congo has numerous stores, shopping centres, and malls that are modern like that of those in western countries, especially in its capital city. Therefore, shopping and entertainment should be no hassle.

 

 

If you thought this was informative and would like to read more interesting articles and blogs, please click here.

 

Written by Saudika Hendricks

Edited by Eloise Williams

Lize-Mari Ras
,

Selflessness is also Self-Care

Charity Starts at Home

 

This famous phrase entails that we care for our own households before anything else, and we prioritise our family’s needs above everything else.

 

We offer our time, money, efforts, and energy to the people we care about the most.

 

But what about the less fortunate, who do not have a family or a home?  Who cares for those who are left uncared for?

 

Mandela Day, celebrated annually on the 18th of July, serves as a great reminder to all of us about the things we often forget about or neglect. It forces us to take a step back, shift our attention from our own problems, and humble ourselves by helping a neighbour in need. Mandela Day is not a public holiday. Rather, it is a day to honour the legacy of former South African president, Nelson Mandela, his values, and his commitment to justice and serving society.

 

Mandela Day is therefore a call to action based on the fact that each individual has the ability to make an impact. It is based on the notions behind one of his most famous quotes, ‘’Today we should all ask ourselves: What have I done to improve the surroundings in which I live? Do I litter or do I protect my surroundings? Do I buy stolen goods, or do I help reduce crime? ‘’

 

There are numerous things that you can do for Mandela day, as long as your efforts are altruistic and intended to benefit others. Whether you help out at an animal shelter, assist a friend with applying for a job, or donate a few blankets to your local shelter. You may choose to spend money, time, or energy, but the point is that you are doing something for a greater cause.

 

The idea behind the Mandela Day campaign is that Nelson Mandela fought for social justice for 67 years. Let us start with 67 minutes.

 

This year, at Relocation Africa, we decided to spend our 67 minutes caring for the less fortunate at the Haven Night Shelter located in Wynberg, Cape Town. It is a homeless shelter that cares for adults, reconnects them with family members they lost contact with, and help them reintegrate into society. The work they do is admiring and their start up story, which is available on their website, is so inspiring. They are an organisation that was founded for no other reason than to be at the service of those in need, and the passion of their employees is evident in the manner that they carry out their care.

 

We took the liberty of preparing lunch for the people at the shelter and personally delivered it. The members of the organisation met us with warm smiles. Their kindness was so contagious, and we listened to the way they expressed their sentiments about the people at the shelter. We witnessed the beautiful relationships between the guests and the employees, which speaks to the sincerity of their deeds.

 

And while all this happened on the 18th of July, this is not about Mandela day. Mandela day is merely a means and an opportunity that comes around once a year and forces us to remember those in need. Instead, this is about serving a cause greater than yourself, helping someone without expecting anything in return, putting your own needs aside and prioritising the needs of someone else. It is about using the means, energy, health, and blessings that was bestowed upon you by the Creator to help the creation.

 

Helping others, especially those who are less fortunate than yourself, is not only beneficial for the recipient of the help, but also makes a positive impact in your community and on yourself. We often become so focused on our problems that we forget to acknowledge our privilege. Helping others allows you to step out of the comfort of your life and into the reality of others. When we partake in prosocial actions or activities, although we are tending to the wellbeing of others, we also gain the multitude of personal benefits that helping people have on our physical, mental, and emotional wellbeing.

 

An article published in The Journal of Positive Psychology asked 400 participants to report on how frequently they engage in different acts of selflessness and how meaningful their life feels. The results showed that participants who were more altruistic reported a greater sense of purpose and meaning in their lives. This is a fact that has been known for centuries, as even Aristotle wrote that finding happiness and fulfilment is achieved by ‘’loving rather than being loved.’’ Ironically, it is through giving that we receive.

 

Doing something for a greater cause helps to meet our basic psychological needs. It enables us to feel competent, to feel a sense of belonging, as well as allowing us to be more sincere in our intentions and interactions. According to another article published by Psychology Today, helping others is also said to assist us in regulating our own emotions, decrease symptoms of depression, and ultimately improve our mental wellbeing.

 

In short, volunteering your time, money, or energy to help others does not just make the world better, it also makes you better.

 

Mandela day merely serves as a reminder of the joys and reward that lies in being a part of something larger than yourself. Just because it has passed does not imply that our kindness should decrease.

 

Here are a few recommendations on how to give more meaning to your life, even after Mandela day:

  • Start small.
  • One person cannot solve world hunger or change the world but every day, small gestures could be more impactful than you could ever possibly imagine. Whether it is a loaf of bread or a kind word, you never know how significant it could be to them in that moment.
  • Make your helping count.
  • Not all types of giving have the same effects on us. If giving your time and energy to someone exhausts you more than it uplifts you because they are taking advantage of your kindness, perhaps find someone else to offer your help to. Helping others is more effective when you can see the impact that your actions have.
  • Show gratitude.
  • Being grateful for what you have and the people who help you can be just as rewarding as the act of helping others. Expressing gratitude can be a prosocial act too. When others take time to do something nice for you, making them feel appreciated can help build your relationship with them and make your life more meaningful, as well as theirs.

 

If you learned something interesting from this article and would like to read more interesting articles like this, click here.

 

Written by Saudika Hendricks.

Edited by Lize-Mari.

Ideation by Joy Jackson.