Student Experience in Mbabane, Swaziland by Pumla

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

I have lived there for 18 years. It is the capital city so you manage to get everything done quickly and civil.
Mbabane is not a crowded city at all yet it has the most civilized people because it's a place for people who are financially stable.
Swaziland being a peaceful country is true and you get to experience that in Mbabane. I would highly recommend it. The city is for nature admires. The green trees grass and modestly calmness of the city is everything. You can see a lot of nature reserves and experience such relaxation of nature without having to pay a dime for it. You do get everything you need inside the city center. As its a capital city it is a tourist attraction.

What is the student lifestyle like in Mbabane?

Being a student in Mbabane is great. Most students prefer attending university there as it has more opportunities for them to even get jobs and interact with a lot of people in a civil way. Mbababe has the best apartments fir students. Though it is expensive, some families sometimes go to the cheapest super markets to buy glories for a student it needs a lot of money management skills.

How much does it cost to live in Mbabane?

It is quite costly as its a capital city and tourist attraction but with good knowledge of affordable places in the city you can live a less costly life. The transport fee is fair and using bicycles is not usual as people prefer walking it is still as economic way to live. Hospitals are affordable but obviously private hospitals are pricey.

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

Finding accommodation is not difficult at all but finding the places with the right sights can be hard as workers and students always prefer these sites. Always try to find more information about the surrounding area and if public transportation can reach even though taxis reach everywhere of course.

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

There is a variety of eating spots it's amazing. From Swazi culture to western dishes. I enjoy Chinese food and Italian tea. My favorite meal is spur ribs, ocean basket and shisanyama.

What places would you recommend visiting in Mbabane?

Hlane royal park, Lobamba, Mbuluzi game Reserve, mlilwane wildlife sanctuary, malolotja nature reserve, swazi mbabane market, mantenga reserves, mlawula nature reserves and swazi festivals

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

Eating out is great. Most families don't cook a lot especially on weekends. The eating spots are amazing.
You never go wrong with places like spur, Chinese restaurant, ocean basket, shisanyama and galitos.

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

Unfortunately there isn't much clubbing in the capital. The bars and dance places are less crowded yet enjoyable for those who don't prefer crowds. There is a lot of amazing karaoke places in Ezulwini. For the clubs most people go to Manzini the busiest city and it's 35 minutes away by public transportation.

What advice would you give future students heading to Mbabane?

Future students heading to Mbabane will not only connect with nature they will have so much peach and interaction with all kinds of people. It's definitely one of the places to live in for a period of time. I'd never trade my 18 years for anything.