Under $100: Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of the Congo

Located next to the French Embassy, Patisserie Nouvelle is Kinshasa’s most popular bakery. Order a cup of coffee and a pastry to enjoy a hearty breakfast. The bakery is a little out of the way, but worth taking the trip for the food. The meal will cost less than $10.

This activity will take up all of the afternoon, but it’s definitely worth it. About 15 miles from downtown is the Serpents du Congo. This zoo is a snake farm and interesting to visit. Most people focus all their time out in the natural beauty of the Congo that they miss quirky places like this. The owner Franck is happy to show off his poisonous and nonpoisonous snakes and will let visitors hold them.

After you get your fill of snakes, check out the National Museum of Kinshasa. This small building comprised of more than 45,000 objects is an excellent place to explore. Learn about the history of the Congo and see timeless pieces from all over the world. The entry fee is $10 per person for foreigners. Some of the exhibits include traditional music instruments, statues and pieces of furniture. Many who visit say the guides are friendly and knowledgeable

For dinner, order a delicious meal from Chez Flore. Serving Congolese dishes at a reasonable price, customers rave about the quality of food and service. The large menu is in the local language, Lingala, but the staff happily explains what is in each dish. Dinner will cost less than $30.