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Staying local
The Chada – small shops and a market within the Hospital compound where you can buy many basics, although with limited choice
Katete Stores – a good collection of shops, several restaurants serving local food and a big market – 45 minutes walk from the Hospital. There is even an internet café, with very slow connection but equally cheap rates.
There is a branch of Finance Bank at Katete Boma – another 7.5 km beyond Katete Stores. Hospital transport goes to the Boma 3 times a week. You can change travellers cheques or cash into Zambian Kwacha, but you cannot withdraw cash on a debit or credit card at present. See also the section on Chipata below.
Entertainment in the evenings is often rather scarce and it’s usually best to assume that you’ll be entertaining yourself! Bring plenty of books, games and music. A portable DVD player/ can be invaluable if you are planning to spend more than a few months at the hospital.
Tikondane Guest House is about 15 minutes walk from the Hospital, and as well as having a good restaurant, can also arrange guided excursions to local villages which include traditional dancing and food.
Chipata
Chipata is the nearest large town and has a much greater range of shops including a ShopRite supermarket where credit cards are accepted. It also has extensive and colourfully stocked markets and a butchers which supplies good meat and cheese. It is 90km away and it takes about 1-2 hours to get there by public transport from Katete Stores.
There is a Barclays Bank in Chipata with a greater range of services, although it is not possible to access a U.K. Barclays account directly.
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