Lusaka Zambia

[Dee Sa]

I am going for the first time, any tips please ? there seems to be no direct flights and awful long waits when you change planes. Is it best to get your visas here in London rather than join a long queue when you get to Lusaka, what currency to take US dollars or stirling, any help would be appreciated

[grasscarp]

I went there on business a few years ago. Never been anywhere quite like it. People often seemed to travel standing up swaying about in back of a lorry. When it rained some roads became rivers. Saw woman carrying sack on her head - perfectly balanced - while man walked beside her. Avocado trees laden with fruit and nobody bothers to take one. I really liked tilapia burger. None of this really helps you, but just the impressions it left on me.

[Linotype]

I live a little further south but can tell you that U.S. dollar is king, steer clear of local currency if you can. There is probably three different rates when paying your hotel bill, for visitors like yourself from the UK, for locals and the South African rates ... Zim (Zimbabwe) has much the same set of rules, but be aware they have just devalued yet again and U.S. dollar the only currency that'll work (SA rands a good and safe alternative). Be sure to take prophelactics (for malaria) even if they make you feel nauseous(?) stick to the regimen. Don't walk about like a tourist (have a camera swinging around your neck) rather be ultra streetwise ... and you'll have a great time. Good luck ...

[Dee Sa]

thank you both, my son lives there so don't have to worry about hotels he lives outside Lusaka. I am not happy going but I have not seen him for over 8 years and soon I shall be too old for long haul flights.

[grasscarp]

Hope it goes well and you enjoy your time together.

[Dee Sa]

thank you Grasscarp, do you know what injections I need ?

[grasscarp]

I didnt have any. The government advice is to check latest information with your doctor.
https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/zambia/health