Things you need to know when travelling
through Maridi, South Sudan. I really must say that these people are the
kindest, gentlest and generous people I have ever met. However if you’re
intending to visit here are some local customs you need to know.
Knees are too sexy for display, keep them
covered up. (women only). Boobs are not.
When buying oil out of a coke bottle, ck with
the vendor whether it’s cooking oil or engine oil. (I squeezed out the meat and
rinsed it; nobody was any the wiser and nobody got sick (phew))
If it itches, scratch it immediately, it
will be something about to take a bite out of you.
“Yes no problem” means I haven’t got a clue
what you’re talking about.
It’s far better to make out you know
somebody when you don’t than not realize you have met somebody before.
When you’re just taking a peek at a
shin-dig to see what’s going on; don’t get too close. You will be given the
best seat in the house, at the front, with no hope of escape or sneaking out.
You will be sat for four hours during the speeches and still never find out
what’s going on.
Handshaking is compulsory, even if you have
already shaken hands with that person, that day. You must especially shake
hands with all the people who are with the person you know (or are pretending
to know (see above)).
Driving rules are not universal. Drive on
the right unless it’s too muddy or the hole is too big. If something comes
towards you while you are on the wrong side of the road ck out the engine size,
if it’s bigger than yours, get out of the way, if it’s smaller do what you
like.
An oncoming car signaling it’s turning to
its left means move over. It really does.
Approaching a round-about, going straight
on? Put your hazards on. I’m not joking; if you don’t do this a traffic
policeman may pull you over and give you a ticking off.
If two or three of you need a bike taxi,
only flag one bike, it’s all you need! (Women remember; side-saddle).
When pulling out of a side road onto the
main road do not look for oncoming traffic, it’s chicken.
Don’t look at dogs, especially when you’re driving;
they’re not used to it. They go nuts and try to attack the car.
When shopping, ask for a little less than
you need as they always give you extra without charging! I told you, they
really are lovely. That’s all folks xxxxxxxxxxxxxxx
