Benin
Lightweight tropical suits should be worn to business meetings. It is essential to be able to conduct conversations in French. Normal courtesies should be observed and punctuality is especially important. The Beninese like to spend time getting to know their business partners. Often business matters will be discussed late in the conversation, once both parties feel that they have established enough trust. It is important that introductions cover family, activities, travels, and interests and will be more pleasant if done over a meal. This protocol serves to make the other more comfortable and more receptive to ideas. Office hours are 0800-1230 and 1500-1830 Monday to Friday.
Street crime, especially within Cotonou, continues to rise. Most robberies and muggings occur along the Marina Boulevard and the beach near the hotels frequented by international visitors. Some of the incidents reported involve the use of force, often by armed persons, with occasional minor injury to the victim. Isolated areas are best avoided
Police assistance in Benin can be described as haphazard. The police lack sufficient funding and equipment to combat crime in Cotonou. The police maintain an emergency number, staffed 24 hours a day, but the caller must be able to speak French. Benin lacks the regular street address system found in western countries so the caller will have to use landmarks. In some instances, the caller may have to send a car to pick up the police because they lack proper transportation. Security forces, namely the Beninese Gendarmes, have a reputation of harassing individuals. The Gendarmes maintain sporadic nightly "security checkpoints" throughout Cotonou. Normal security measures are to be observed at all times. Visitors should always keep car doors locked, whether driving or parked. Visitors should refrain from flashing valuables or cash, always remain aware of their surroundings, and be wary of strangers.
Benin has a wide array of hotels. Only one top quality hotel is well established in Cotonou (Sheraton) but it is complemented by a variety of hotels of lesser standing that nevertheless offer good service. Hotel accommodation is available in other major cities though not to the extent it is in Cotonou.
Telephone IDD service is available. The country code is 229 and the outgoing international code is 00. There is an additional charge for calls made from a coin box. There are good Poste Restante facilities at most main post offices. Post office hours: 0800-1400 Monday to Saturday.
Electricity is 220 volts AC, 50Hz.
220 volts AC, 50Hz.
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There is a selection of restaurants and hotels in Cotonou, serving French food with table service, although some also serve local African specialties, particularly seafood.Tipping:
It is normal to tip 10 per cent of the bill in hotels and restaurants.Nightlife
Cotonou offers several nightclubs, but elsewhere there is little nightlife except during festivals.
