No matter where you go; whether from the capital Kampala to
the rural areas, travel rewards more when you dive head first into local ways
of life in Uganda.
Putting aside the fact that you’re not a local when just
visiting Uganda, there are things you can still do and blend in and get a real
sense of what life is like as a local in Uganda. Traveling like a local in
Uganda rewards you a special, connected experience that’s worth the extra
effort.
Learn a few key phrases; however much English is the official
language in Uganda, surprisingly a number of people can’t speak it especially
in rural areas, having a few key phrases in Luganda can be a good way to feel more
connected to the people around you, especially in Kampala. There are phrasebooks
in different bookshops around Kampala, purchase one and learn some basics such
as greetings, thank you, an apology (sorry or excuse me), counting numbers, among
others. A number of locals appreciate the effort and will respond positively on any Uganda safari.
Eat like local; If you want to act, feel and look like a local in
Uganda, you’re supposed to eat like one. Some of the local dishes in Uganda
include Rolex, Katogo (mixture of Matooke, cassava, Irish potatoes, with beans
G. Nuts, meat), and Luwombo etc. Eating like a local gives you a chance to
discover the traditional dishes of different cultures in Uganda. Some of the
best spots for local dishes include Mediterraneo Restaurant, Baguma restaurant,
Hajji Sebankyaye restaurants and many others.
Browse markets and grocery stores; seeing Uganda’s staple
offers you a lot of insight into the local culture. Visit different markets and
interact with the vendors and also walk into grocery stores. And if you have
cooking facilities at the apartment, buy some things and try preparing some
local dishes on your own.
Using public means of transport is another way of feeling
like a local in Uganda. Public means of transport in Uganda may not always be
as quick and comfortable but it gives a unique experience like the Boda bodas,
Taxis / Matatus, and coasters and among others. Using public means of transport
is one of the ways to associate with the locals and also to make local friends.
Hanging out with the locals is an incredible way to live like
a local in Uganda and it is another way to experience Uganda’s authentic culture
and a typical lifestyle. Some of the incredible places that locals hangout from,
include clubs and bars, Shopping malls, beaches and among others. The logic
behind hanging out with the locals is; the more locals you meet is the more
inside information you’ll get hence enjoying traveling as a local in Uganda.
Visit the local markets and purchase local cloths, like the African Bitengi, craft hats, shoes, hand
woven bags, etc.; so that you blend in and look similar to the natives. During
hotter days, you are not advised to dress in Bikini, especially in public (in
Uganda excess displays of skin is indecent.), but rather a stylistic African
shirt / dress, as you try to find a ways to combine your own fashion sense with
the native culture.
Staying with the locals. Select a neighborhood that’s
slightly outside the main tourist area for a more authentic experience.
The best unique way to see places is to travel like a local
in Uganda and it’s the only way you can simply get to know a destination and
have travel experiences that are both authentic and enjoyable. By talking or
sharing with a diverse cross section of local residents, you will get the right
information about different destinations, people and lifestyle.
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