In peacetime, restaurants in the major cities serve Chinese, European, Italian and Somali food.

Things to know: The majority of Somalis are Muslims; most of the food is halal. Camel is popular for both its meat and milk, which Somalis believe to be more nutritious than cow or goat milk. Under Islamic law, alcohol is illegal.

National specialities:
• Seafood including lobster, prawn, squid, crab, fresh tuna.
• Somali bananas, mangoes and papaya.
• Roast kid and spiced rice.
• Otka (dried meat - preferably camel - fried in butter and spices, very similar to jerky).
• Injera (a large, spongy pancake).

National drinks:
• Black and brown teas, usually from China.
• Chai.

Tipping: 10 to 15% is normal in hotels and restaurants.

Local bands playing African and European music are popular. There are frequent traditional feasts with ritualistic and recreational dance, music and folk songs.

Traditional crafts include gold, silver jewellery, woven cloth and baskets from the Benadir region, meerschaum and woodcarvings.

Shopping hours: Sat-Thurs 0800-1230 and 1630-1900.