When someone says the word “Africa”, you probably envision vast wild plains, animals running free and barely any human contact apart from wild men and women living in huts, draped in hunters’ skins and brandishing spears. And while those places indeed exist, there is a whole lot more that encompasses Africa; roaring waterfalls by 5-star hotels, the finest beaches in the world, homely wooden lodges surrounded by wild ferns and wilder animals, cities pulsating with nightlife, and places of worship beautiful enough to bring you to your knees. Africa has enough to offer for ten lifetimes, but she is a fickle friend, and when planning your trip to bask in her wonders, it would be in your best interest to always keep a few things in mind that require research and planning before you can travel. Language issues In South Africa alone there are 11 official languages. In the Congo, there are an estimated 242. Luckily, most people in larger towns and cities in Africa will be able to hold a conversation in English. In rural villages, however, you might run into a few minor communication difficulties. It is recommended that you find the most popular language of the region you plan to visit and download an offline translation app - I preferably use the Google app This will allow you to effectively communicate even when there is no Wi-Fi or reception available. Here are a few basic phrases to learn that will always elicit a smile, a look of appreciation or even the coveted grasping of hands from one of the locals. Common Phrases for Congo: Yes - Ee No - Te Maybe - Mbala mosusu Hello – Mbote. How is it going? – Ndenge nini? (It’s going) well. –
When someone says the word “Africa”, you probably envision vast wild plains, animals running free and barely any human contact apart from wild men and women living in huts, draped in hunters’ skins and brandishing spears. And while those places indeed exist, there is a whole lot more that encompasses Africa; roaring waterfalls by
