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On the Niguera coast in the southwestern part of the country lies the city of Bamako, the capital of Mali. According to archaeological research, the site has been studied since the Paulolithic period. But the foundation of the present city dates back to the 17th century.
The origin of Bamako has several versions. According to the main one, it is believed that the name came from the words Bama" and Quo", which means, respectively, Crocodile" and River" in the Bamara language. According to another version, the name of the city is related to the hunter Bama, who was fishing in the area. The first of these two hypotheses has a more realistic basis, as there are three crocodiles depicted on the citys crest.
The number of inhabitants has been growing steadily for a long time. This is why many villagers want to move closer to the benefits of civilization. As a result, rapid population growth has led to negative consequences for Bamako – water and sewage problems, environmental damage and lack of jobs.
The territory of Bamako is in a climatic zone that is typical of the southern part of the Sahara. Throughout the year, temperatures do not drop below 25 degrees Celsius. In the hottest months, from March through March, it may rise to 40. It gets relatively cool from March through December and a little later in February. Rainfall generally occurs from May through October.
The city has a fairly developed transportation infrastructure. There is a railway line from Dakar to Bamako. Motorways connect the city to other major population centers in the country. A significant role is played by the river communication on the Niger River. Because the city is located on both sides of the river, bridges have been built on both sides of the river to connect both parts of the city. The first bridge was built in 1960. The next was built in 1992. The third was built more recently, in 2011.
All the major markets, markets, restaurants and hotels are centrally located. One of the most remarkable ethnic museums in the country is located in Bamako. Among his exhibits are figurines of cultural masks, arms of the Aborigines, and a number of instruments.
Here are some of the paintings.
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- Tap water: No, not drinkable
- Religious government: Religious
- Population: 3,300,000 people
- GDP: $778 / year
- Foreigners can own real estate: Yes
- Power outlets: 230V50Hz
- Internet: 4 Mbps
- Best wireless: Orange
- Tipping: Restaurants: Around 10% is usually expected for a nice meal. Otherwise rounding up is a good way to show appreciation. Bars: Not required to tip at Bars, however rounding up is a nice gesture if you recieved good service. Other: If you are doing a tour then the guide and driver will expect a tip.
- Apartment listings: AirBnb
- Apartments: Airbnb
- Hotels: Booking.com
- More hotels: Hotels.com
- Best coffee 24/7: Donilab
- Best hospital: Golden Life American Hospital
- Best short-haul air carrier: Turkish Airlines
- Best intl air carrier: Turkish Airlines
- Monthly costs for expat: $1300
- Monthly costs for family: $2400
- Monthly costs for local: $700
- Meal: $7
- Small Cola: $1.7
- Beer 1 Pint: $5
- Coffee: $4
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