Comoros
Lightweight suits or shirt and tie normally worn for business meetings. French is the language of business and daily life in Comoros, although some Arabic and Swahili are spoken. English is seldom spoken. Office hours are generally 0730-1430 Monday to Thursday; 0730-1100 Friday; 0730-1200 Saturday.
Petty crime is a problem on all of the islands of Comoros, but violent crimes are rare. Visitors should carry only the cash and credit cards they need in a given day to protect themselves from pickpockets and purse-snatchers. Valuables should be stored in a hotel safety deposit box if available.
The resorts of Le Galawa and Itsandra Sun, both on Grande Comore Island provide adequate accommodations, however, there are only a few South African-operated hotels, located mostly in Moroni, which handle the needs of traveling business people, government officials and other visitors. Hotel managers sometimes ask visitors to share rooms but this is not advised.
Outgoing international calls must be made through the international operator and the country code is 269. Fax and telex services are offered at some resorts. Mail to Western Europe takes at least a week and mail elsewhere may take much longer. Electricity is a 220 Volts AC, 50Hz.
220 volts AC, 50Hz. Electricity shortages occur.
C,E
Restaurants serve good food with spiced sauces and rice-based dishes.
Things to know: There may be restrictions on drink within Muslim circles. National specialties:
• Cassava.
• Plantain.
• Couscous.
• Barbecued goat meat.
• Seafood.
• Tropical fruits. Tipping
: Normally 10 per cent.
