- Destinations
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- Comoros
Comoros
Despite picture-perfect beaches, turquoise waters hemmed in by
coral reefs, fantastic sunsets, and air scented with the tropical
perfume of vanilla, nutmeg or ylang-ylang spices, the islands of
the Comoros do not receive the same attention and approbation as
their neighbours. A history of political instability has left the
islands with one of the poorest and most undeveloped economies in
the world, and since independence from France in 1975 the political
atmosphere on the islands has been volatile and insecure.
Located almost halfway between the island of Madagascar and
Mozambique, off the east coast of Africa, the archipelago
constitutes four major islands that were formed by volcanic
activity. Three of these islands form the Comoros, while the
fourth, Maore (Mayotte), is part of France, choosing to remain
under French rule after the other islands voted for independence.
This divide in the archipelago has been the cause of many tensions,
and despite being administered by France, the Federal Islamic
Republic of the Comoros claim Mayotte as its own.
Of the Comoros islands, Ngazidja (Grand Comore) is the largest
and the most westerly island, dominated by a large active volcano,
Mount Karthala. It is also home to the capital of the Comoros,
Moroni, a charming town with narrow winding streets in the old Arab
Quarter worth exploring and several beautiful mosques. The sparsely
populated island of Mwali (Moheli) is the smallest in the group and
the least developed, with pristine tropical forest and secluded
beaches. The most spectacular island, the 'pearl of the Indian
Ocean', is Nzwani (Anjouan), the archipelago's main producer of
perfume essences including jasmine and ylang-ylang, and also the
most populated island. Its ancient capital and seaport, Domoni, was
a major trading centre in the 15th century along the mercantile
routes of the Indian Ocean from Africa to Asia, which became
obsolete with the opening of the Suez Canal in 1869.
The cessation of maritime trade, together with the shrinking
demand of its major exports and economy mainstays such as essential
oils and spices, has resulted in these 'Perfumed Isles' becoming
the 'Forgotten Islands' of the Indian Ocean. But the islands offer
a fantastic holiday for those seeking a destination where nature
and scenery hold the biggest appeal: there is superb diving in an
underwater wonderland of corals and fish, a variety of animal and
bird life that is unique to the islands, and diverse terrain from
volcanic craters to undisturbed beaches to explore.
Information & Facts
Business
The slow pace of island life is a typical aspect of doing
business in the Comoros, where nothing happens too quickly or
professionally (French Mayotte is more Western in its approach to
punctuality and efficiency). Dress is tidy, but fairly casual, and
being an Islamic country, women are expected to dress
conservatively. Women are traditionally subservient to men and do
not hold key positions in business, so visiting businesswomen will
find that they are not treated with the same respect as their male
counterparts. Business is usually conducted in French, and
sometimes in Arabic, but few people speak English. Business hours
are generally 7.30am to 12pm and 3pm to 5.30pm Monday to Thursday,
and Fridays until 11am (Islamic holy day). During the holy month of
Ramadan very little business gets is conducted.
Climate
Located just south of the equator, the islands have a maritime
tropical climate with a hot and humid wet season from November to
April, and a cool, drier season between May and October. Rainfall
and temperature vary from island to island, but generally
temperatures average from 78°F to 86°F (26°C to 29°C) in the wet
season and about 66°F (19°C) from May to October.
Communications
The international dialling code for the Comoros is +269. The
outgoing code is 00 followed by the relevant country code (e.g.
0027 for South Africa). International calls made within the country
require operator assistance. There is limited cell phone coverage,
but this is growing. The Societe Nationale des Telecommunications
provides a GSM 900 network. Internet access is scarce. A few hotels
provide Internet.
Customs
The islands are largely Muslim and visitors should respect local
traditions and sensitivities, especially during the month of
Ramadan. Women in particular are advised to dress conservatively,
covering shoulders and legs when away from the beach.
Duty Free
Passengers of 18 years and older can bring 400 cigarettes or 100
cigars or 500g tobacco, one bottle of alcohol and one bottle of
perfume without paying customs duty.
Electricity
Electrical current is 220 volts, 50Hz. Round two-pin
plugs and one with receptacle with male grounding pin, are in
use.
Getting Around
Share-taxis are a common form of transport as are taxi-brousses.
Between islands there are internal flights (not to Mayotte), and
boat services connect the four islands in the archipelago. Ferries
are the easiest and cheapest way of island hopping.
Health
There is a risk of malaria throughout the year, and dengue fever
outbreaks occur. Cholera outbreaks also occur, but are a low risk
to travellers. Visitors should drink bottled or boiled water as a
preventative measure. Medical facilities are limited and
medications may not be available. Travellers are advised to bring
their own personal medical kit and travel insurance should be
comprehensive.
Language
French and Arabic are the official languages. Comorian is
the most widely spoken language however.
Money
The official currency is the Comoros Franc (KMF), which is
divided into 100 centimes. Its value is tied to the Euro and many
major tourist establishments accept Euros as payment. In towns,
foreign currency can be exchanged at banks on Ngazidja, but banking
facilities are limited on the other islands. The Banque
Internationale des Comores (BIC) is the only bank that will change
travellers cheques. To avoid additional charges take travellers
cheques in Euros. There is no bank on Mwali. Banks are open on
weekday mornings only, from 7am to 12pm. The acceptance of credit
cards is limited to a few upmarket hotels.
Passport Visa
Return or onward air tickets and all necessary documents for the
next destination are required. Visitors are given a 24-hour transit
visa on arrival and have to report to the immigration office within
that time to purchase a visa. Fees vary depending on length of
stay.
Safety
The islands are relatively crime-free, but visitors should be
aware that muggers and pick-pockets will target those who look like
they are carrying valuables. It is not advisable to walk around at
night, particularly in the town centres. Cyclones are possible
between January and April, and Le Kartala volcano on Ngazidja is
active and erupts periodically. It is advisable to check on the
situation before visiting that part of the island. Foreign
governments currently advise against travel to Anjouan due to the
unstable political situation.
Time
Tipping
Tips of 10% are appreciated for good service.