ZIMBABWE

This land-locked country has endured sanctions, an unstable currency and ongoing speculation about its future. But don’t count Zimbabwe out.

The economy of Zimbabwe is slowly improving, mostly dependent on agriculture and mineral resources, with the mining industry the largest driver. That said, tourism, led by the stunning Victoria Falls area, is seeing a revival. The big question is, who will succeed President Robert Mugabe, Zimbabwe’s only ruler since 1987 and now in his 90s. CITIES: The capital city, Harare, is the most populous city in Zimbabwe. Set in the Zimbabwe Highveld, 5,000 feet above sea level, Harare is a friendly city of flowering trees and gardens and a temperate climate.

Zimbabwe’s most popular tourist destination is Victoria Falls. In addition, the Great Zimbabwe Ruins in Masvingo and the Khami Ruins in Bulawayo are among the world’s most well-preserved ancient cities and the Hwange Game Reserve is the country’s largest wildlife sanctuary.

There are three international airports in Zimbabwe: Harare International Airport; Joshua Mqabuko Nkomo International Airport in Bulawayo, and the Victoria Falls International Airport.

Harare’s airport is the largest in the country, situated 6 miles from the center of town. The $150 million expansion of Victoria Falls International Airport is expected to wrap up in late 2015. It includes a second runway, expansion of the existing runway, and a new terminal. HOTELS: The Meikles Hotel is a 5-star property in the center of Harare. The Bronte Hotel is renowned for its collection of Shona sculptures. The Crowne Plaza offers newly refurbished rooms, Cresta Hotels has three hotels in the city and the Holiday Inn Harare is near the CBD.

The de facto official currency is the US dollar and it is very much a cash economy. Most larger establishments accept MasterCard and Visa.

Visit zimbabwetourism.net or gotovictoriafalls.co.za.