The two main markets are Moungali and Ouenze. Avenue Foch is crowded with street vendors. Some shops close on Monday afternoon and a few will open on Sunday morning. Aug 2001 Celebration Day. Normal courtesies should be observed when visiting people's homes.
Gifts are acceptable as a token of thanks, especially if invited for a meal.
Dress should be casual, and informal wear is acceptable in most places. Mini skirts and shorts should not be worn in most public places, however. Artistic carving, both traditional and modern dance, as well as folk songs play an important part in Congolese culture, which is strongly based on tradition. There are large numbers of foreigners resident in Congo, working as technical assistants, businessmen and traders. Porters and taxi drivers do not expect tips.