Experience in Lusaka, Zambia by Ellen

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

Lusaka is a great place to live it's the biggest and capital city of Zambia. It's an upcoming modern city with so much infrastructure and development coming up. We have loads of organic foods and fruits l would recommend African fruits though they are very sweet and usually only available in the dry season. I would definitely recommend Lusaka to anyone who wants to move there. It has so many friendly and warm people who are always at hand to give you a helping hand and a smile when you are having a rough day. But overall I think the people are really friendly you can not feel like a stranger in Lusaka and it's a similar story in many African cities.

What is the student lifestyle like in Lusaka?

The University of Zambia is located in Lusaka and many other private universities so it has numerous students. And the schools do organise activities for their students. However I wouldn't describe Lusaka as a university town.

How much does it cost to live in Lusaka?

Most low income earning families leave on less than a dollar a day. Some people to cut down on food costs would rather have a garden at home to grow vegetables. A 1000 euros is alot of money to survive on for a month.

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

No finding accommodation is very easy in Lusaka. Their signs of real estate agents everywhere and in newspapers you can find posters for houses and flats property for rent or sale. From houses in low income areas to mansions whatever you are looking for you will find it.

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

Lusaka is a multicultural city so the food is diverse however as Zambians we eat usually for breakfast it can either be tea with bread or cereal, pancakes eggs and bacon you name it. We love our nshima. Nshima is a hard porridge like food we eat everyday for lunch and dinner with relish that consists of either meat,fish,chicken and veggies. We eat with our hands you wash your hands then dig in. My favorite Zambian dish is Nshima with fried chicken in gravy and a vegetable we call rape lol. The food is organic.

What places would you recommend visiting in Lusaka?

There's so much to do and see. There's a new game park in Lusaka but it doesn't have the big 5 wild animals mostly just the zebras,antelopes,giraffes etc. Or Chaminuka lodge where you can walk with cheetahs,there is also Kabwata Cultrual village you can find authentic African art and jewelry. But if you want to see the real Zambia l would suggest you go to places like the markets if you are a foodie there is a Tuesday market where farmers bring their stuff for sale. If you are into shopping and you want to find bargains there is a place called Kamwala but if you find that place too crowded you can always go to the malls. Getting to know Zambian families are the best places to visit and if you have a chance to attend our wedding celebrations that are in 3 parts you will see something that is uniquely Zambian.

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

Yes it is there soo many restaurants in Lusaka you are spoiled for choice. But it's always a good idea to book in advance at nice restaurants. But at food courts at the mall everything is availabe however we don't have a McDonald's but we have KFC and many South African fast food chain stores. My favorite restaurant in Lusaka is the Horseshoe. And if you just want to chill maybe like have a ladies night out I would recommend Chicago's. And if you are into live music I would recommend the Misty.

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

Yes it is Zambia is full of vibrant people who love life so yes our night lives are good as well. Most weekends people would rather watch football matches at the pub and there many pubs in Lusaka then after that go and dance the night away. There many clubs like Annex, Club Vegas, Chez Ntemba,Hollywood,the Lounge to name a few.

What advice would you give future students heading to Lusaka?

Enjoy the experience and the Africa you see on tv is not the Africa you will find there.