Mozambique is fast becoming one of Africa’s most popular travel destinations for those looking for a lifestyle of business. The temperate climate, gorgeous landscape and growing business potential have pushed the incentive for serviced apartments to be more common in Mozambique.
The South African country of Mozambique has a population of around thirty million people. The land covers over 800,000 square kilometres and consists of four main islands situated a short distance away from the mainland. The Indian Ocean coastline consists of many popular beaches which have contributed to the increasing number of foreign tourists, despite the tropical, and sometimes unpredictable climate. The country’s capital Maputo acts an Indian Ocean port, and one of the best representations of previous Portuguese colonial history.
History First knowledge of Mozambican people comes just before 4AD when it’s believed the land was inhabited by ancestors of the Khoisani people. Over ten thousand years later Portuguese explorers reached Mozambique and made it part of its colony. This began a period of living under policies benefitting white people, ignoring the Mozambicans culture and lifestyles. Enough became enough for the people, and the Front for the Liberation of Mozambique (FREMILO) was formed in the hope of gaining independence and campaigning against Portuguese colonial rule. Following continuous warfare and political struggle, the campaign was a success. Mozambique gained independence in June 1975.
Following came the Mozambican Civil War and the country has not been renowned for its economic qualities. Despite the impacts of the civil war and Portuguese colonisation, the country is now taking advantage of its growing oil and gas reserves. Foreign investment is very much welcomed, with some of its depleted industries looking for support from overseas.
Investment opportunities can be found in the weakened domestic production industry and in the currently booming energy industry. Although these opportunities come out of a need to improve the currently weak industries, the hard-working population and their willingness to respect business culture makes Mozambique a promising location for business. Serviced city apartments and corporate accommodation have grown in demand in Mozambican as a result of this potential.
The New Mozambican Metical replaced the old equivalent in 2006. Be aware that you should not enter or leave the country with more than 500 meticais, which is the equivalent of around eight USD, six Pound Sterling and seven Euros. For the current exchange rates, visit www.xe.com.
Only residents of the following countries do not require visas for entry to Mozambique; Botswana, Malawi, Mauritius, Swaziland, South Africa, Tanzania, Zambia and Zimbabwe. Otherwise, other citizens can apply for single and multiple-entry visas, belongs as you provide proof of a return ticket and your accommodation. For more details visit www.worldtravelguide.net.
When travelling and exploring through Mozambique, always carry identity documents with you and be aware you hand information too when asked for it. Be sure to avoid photographing of government offices, airports and military establishments as this is all illegal in Mozambique. Other than just keeping your wits about you, you should be able to avoid any trouble whilst in Mozambique. For your own peace of mind though, visit www.gov.uk and the Mozambique local laws page for more information.
Driving across Mozambique can be beneficial if you wish to find untouched destinations that public transport can not access and want to explore in your time. Foreign driving licences are valid for up to ninety days before you require an International Driving Permit. The most important things to be aware of though before your trip are the terrain, ‘non-motor’ vehicles such as donkeys and that the locals drive on the left side of the road. We advise sticking to the main roads, exploring any roads which look unstable and avoid rainy season or night driving. It is against the law to drive across beaches too. If you don’t fancy travelling via car, why not get in a ‘Laranijnhas’ an orange scooter taxi or pay between 200 and 400 Mozambican meticais for a typical journey around the cities.
The East African climate compliments the amazing selection of beaches and islands Mozambique is known for. Travellers are spoilt with UNESCO-listed cultural attractions and the beautiful coastline invites a range of activities and sight-seeing spots. Both the Bazaruto and Quirimbas islands express the stunning features of Mozambique’s archipelago. There’s nowhere better to see the free-roaming wildlife who occupy the freshwater lakes and amazing sand dunes. Both islands offer visitors the opportunity to go diving in up to 400 metres deep to explore the lively natural world in the exotic waters. Both these islands are reachable from our corporate accommodation and are brilliant options for those looking for a stress-free get-away from their busy business lifestyle.
Tofo Beach has grown in popularity among travellers in recent years. The beach encompasses a laidback chilled atmosphere with plenty of things to do and explore. Specialising sea-food restaurants and bustling beach bars compliment the stunning surroundings perfectly. Top all this off with a stroll through the peaceful market town which is always welcoming to new explorers. Equally worth visiting is one of Africa’s largest artificial lakes, the Cahora Bassa. It powers the largest hydroelectric scheme in southern Africa and its potential for great features draws in foreign visitors all year round.
Mozambique’s beautiful landscape and warm climate make the country an increasing popularity place for travel. Situ’s serviced apartments can enable corporates to be both close to Mozambique’s enticing attractions and where you need to be to conduct business without any stress.
Also known as Lourenço Marques or Mavalane International, this airport serves Maputo, Mozambique’s largest city and capital.
The most major connections the airport provides are to Johannesburg, Lisbon, Doha and Nairobi. Expansions are currently in progress in the hope of handling over 150 passengers per hour.
Mozambique Ports and Railways is the national rail company is the state authority which overlooks all of Mozambique’s train services.
The network is only comprised of east-west routes, with no north-south routes available.
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