Appropriate clothing in Africa

[ritaoz]

Hi,
Is it true that in some countries, like Malawi, it is better for women to wear long dresses/skirts? I heard it is not recommended for women to wear trousers/pants in some countries, and wondered how important it is to follow this advice. I always like to respect local culture and customs, although I dont own any long dresses
Rita

[clairew85]

The only place I found it a slight issue was on Zanzibar where it was respectful to cover knees and shoulders. Everywhere else was relaxed. On Zanzibar other tourists were less respectful and whilest they didn't seem to have any problems there was alot more unwanted starring.

[ExplorerWannaBe]

We were cautioned about appropriate dress in a few areas. As clairew85 says, it's more of an issue in Zanzibar because of the proximity with the local population. You have to pass through a local neighborhood when walking to the local liquor store from the beach bungalows and of course you are in the midst of many locals in Stone Town although I think the Stone Town natives are more used to European tourists paying little mind to their local customs.

It shouldn't be too much of an issue in Malawi as the beach compounds are separated from the local villages and you'll want to wear pants anyway if you go horseback riding.

Convertible shorts/pants are great but one thing women can do that doesn't work as well for the guys is to use wide scarves as wraparounds, almost skirts, to cover their knees and shoulders.

[ballu]

Personally, I'm not much of a dress/skirt wearing type...I wore longer shorts (covering knees) and tshirts, never felt uncomfortable or like I was being disrespectful. Did I look like a tourist? Sure, but I didn't get stared at any more than any other "muzungu".

[georginal]

I only remember there being an issue in Stone Town, I don't own a skirt,so I've never travelled with one. Longer shorts and longer sleeved T-shirts and headscarfs, yes, but never skirts.

[ritaoz]

Thanks everyone for that advice. I managed to get a skirt to be sure. It sure will look funny with my hiking boots