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Country Guide > Africa > Guinea | |
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Social Profile Food & Drink Restaurants, except in the capital where Western-style food is available, generally serve local dishes including jollof rice, stuffed chicken with groundnuts, and fish dishes. These are usually served with rice and may be spicy. Staples are cassava, yams and maize. Guineans are fond of very hot maize soup, served from calabashes. Main hotels, mostly in the capital, have reasonable restaurants where a wide variety of alcoholic beverages is served, including good West African brands of beer. This is also available in local bars. Nightlife Although there are theatres, nightclubs and cinemas, Guineans prefer to make their own entertainment. In the streets people can often be seen gathered together to dance, sing and play traditional musical instruments or home-made guitars. Conakry is a dynamic centre for music and the singing of the Kindia people is renowned. Shopping Although department stores in the major cities are poorly stocked, local markets sell a unique display of goods. Special purchases include brightly coloured, distinctive Guinean clothes, woodcarvings, leather rugs in bold black-and-white designs, skins, locally produced records, calabashes and jewellery. Shopping hours: Mon-Sat 0900-1800. Special Events The main events celebrated in Guinea are Muslim holy days and feasts. The following is a selection of special events celebrated annually in Guinea Republic: Feb Tabaski (Feast of the Sacrifice). May Mouloud (Prophet’s Anniversary). Nov Eid al-Fitr (End of Ramadan). Social Conventions Although Muslim customs are less strict than in the Arab world, beliefs and traditions should be respected by tourists. Casual dress is acceptable. Street crime is relatively common. It is important to greet people and ask them how they are before starting a conversation. Guineans always use titles when addressing others, so the visitor should do likewise (Monsieur, Madame, Mademoiselle etc). Photography: A permit (applied for in advance) has to be obtained from the Ministère de l’Intérieur et de la Sécurité when photographing government buildings, military and transportation facilities or public works. It is inadvisable to photograph buildings at present, and visitors should always ask local people if they want to photograph them. Tipping: A 5 per cent service charge will usually be included in the bill. |