Experience in Harare, Zimbabwe by Sharon

What is it like to live in Harare? Would you recommend it? What is the city like?

At the moment, the economy is not doing well so cost of living is a bit expensive due to the liquidity crunch. However, Harare is a great city to live, great weather, friendly people and very little crime. The city is not too busy, Life is pretty calm yet lively still. I would recommend it mostly for work or postgraduate studies.

What is the student lifestyle like in Harare?

The high school student lifestyle is the most vibrant and exciting. Because the city is small, everyone knows everyone else and there is party almost every weekend especially during holidays. College life is also very exciting but most people prefer studying down south in South Africa or overseas so it becomes a whole new crowd if you stay behind.

How much does it cost to live in Harare?

It is fairly expensive but if you have lived here for a long time you get used to it slowly. Accommodation is quite cheap with big spacious flats/houses available. Food is also quite reasonably priced depending on where you buy/eat out. As for general shopping, Harare is quite pricey at the moment.

Is it difficult to find accommodation in Harare? Is there any advice you can give?

Not at all. You just search in the local papers and voila, you are good to go. There are many options available at super affordable prices. e.g $800 will get you a nice big family house in a quiet neighborhood or a lovely flat in the city.

What is the food like? What are your favourite dishes?

Food is very much organic and tasty. There are a number of international restaurants available and so are traditional ones serving real African dishes. My favourite is the local staple, Sadza as well as macaroni and cheese, lasagna and chicken burgers.

What places would you recommend visiting in Harare?

In the city there isn't much to see except the Art Gallery and the National Archives. Most attractions are outside Harare such as the Majestic Victoria Falls which is one of the 7 natural world wonders. Young adults do hang out at Sam Levy's village and Kingfisher though.

Is it good to eat out in Harare? Can you tell us your favourite spots?

Yes it really is. I love Millers, Da Eros, Shangri-La and Nando's. We have many Chinese restaurants as well as Indian, Italian and Mediterranean.

Is the nightlife good in Harare? Where is good to go?

Not so much. Only a handful of clubs. Locals rely on organized parties and restaurants actually.

What advice would you give future students heading to Harare?

You need to be ready for a whole new culture, we are pretty conservative (mini skirts and shorts cannot be worn in many parts of the city), bring adequate funds but make sure you come with someone you know very well especially if you are coming from outside Africa. English is the official language.