"Culture smart! Malawi" is an illuminating and practical guide to Malawi's culture and society. It will help you turn your visit-- whether it's for business or for pleasure-- into a memorable and enriching experience. Contents include: local customs and traditions; the impact of history, religion, and politics; the Malawians at home, work, and play; eating and drinking, Malawi style; dos, don'ts, and taboos; business practices; communication, spoken and unspoken; and many practical tips for managing the unexpected"--Cover, page 4.

Intro; Title Page; Copyright; About the Author; Contents; Map of Malawi; Introduction; Key Facts; Chapter 1: Land and People; Geography; Climate; Cities and Major Towns; The People; A Brief History; Present-Day Politics; Government; The Economy; Malawi in Africa and Beyond; Chapter 2: Values and Attitudes; The Malawian Character; Communal Life; Gender and Sexuality; Dress; The Extended Family and Community Sharing; Respect and Discipline; Religious Tolerance; World Views, Traditiional and Modern; Attitudes Toward Time; Attitudes Toward Work. -- Resourcefulness and Thrift Attitudes Toward Wealth; Tribal Relations and Individual Identity; Attitudes Toward Foreigners; Chapter 3: Customs and Traditions; The Role of the Chief; Cultural Festivals; Public Holidays; Greetings and Courtesy; Birth and Baptism; Marriage; Funerals; Witchcraft and Supernatural Beliefs; Harmful Cultural Practices; Chapter 4: Making Friends; Friendship; Nicknames For Foreigners; Socializing; Communal Living; Transactional Sex; Mixed-Race Relationships; Lending Money and Other Items; Conversations; Invitations Home. -- Chapter 5: The Malawians at Home Housing; The Household; Demography; Childbearing as a Community Concern; Who Earns What?; A Sense of Style; The Daily Round; Growing Up in Malawi; Education; Chapter 6: Time Out; Leisure; Eating Out; Nightlife; Sports; The Arts; Must-See Tourist Attractions; Chapter 7: Travel, Health, and Safety; Arriving; Intercity Connections; Getting Around Town; Driving; Where To Stay; Health; Safety and Security; Chapter 8: Business Briefing; The Business Climate; Chinese and Indian Businesses. -- Dealing With Government and Public Agencies Investment Procedure; The Business Culture; Business Dress; Setting Up Appointments; Meetings; Negotiations; Contracts and Fulfillment; Women In Business; Gift Giving; Corruption; Chapter 9: Communicating; Language; Forms of Address and Greetings; Body Language; Humor; The Media; Services; Conclusion; Further Reading; Acknowledgments.