World Country Guide

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Food & Drink
Several of the hotels have restaurant and bar facilities of international standard, serving international cuisine, and most towns have small restaurants serving local and north African dishes. Hotel restaurants are open to non-residents. A particular Malian speciality is La Capitaine Sangha, a kind of Nile perch served with hot chilli sauce, whole fried bananas and rice. There is a limited choice of restaurants.
Alcohol is available in bars (with very late opening hours), but since the majority is Muslim, there is a good range of fresh fruit juices. Most people tend to drink fruit juice rather than alcohol. Malian tamarind and guava juices are delicious. A traditional drink is Malian tea which should be drunk in three stages; the first is very strong (‘as bitter as death’); the second is slightly sweetened (‘just like life’); the third is well sugared (‘as sweet as love’). Visitors to Mali may be invited to partake in this tea ritual.

Nightlife
Bamako has a good selection of nightclubs with music and dancing.

Shopping
Traditional crafts range from the striking masks of the Bambara, Dogon and Malinko peoples, to woodcarvings, original designs in ebony and bronze, woven cloth, and mats, gold and silver jewellery and copperware. Excellent pottery is made in the Sgou region, while Timbuktu is a good centre for iron and copper articles, including swords, daggers and traditional household utensils.

Special Events
The following is a selection of special events celebrated annually in Mali:
Jan 10 Tabaski, nationwide. Apr 11 Mawloud (Prophet’s Birthday), nationwide. Oct 22-24 Korit (End of Ramadan), nationwide. Dec Crossing of the Cattle, Diafarab.

Social Conventions
Malians are hospitable people and will welcome visitors gracefully into their homes. Visitors must remember that this is a Muslim country and the religious customs and beliefs of the people should be respected. Modesty in dress, particularly for women, is essential. Photography: This is no longer restricted, except for military subjects. However, interpretation of what is considered off limits tends to vary. Other subjects may be considered sensitive from a cultural or religious point of view and it is advisable to obtain permission before taking photographs in Mali. Tipping: A 10 per cent tip is customary in restaurants and bars, but is not normal for taxi drivers. Porters receive CFAfr100 per piece of luggage.