There is a good reason why Uganda is called "the Pearl of Africa." Beyond the ideal climate, abundant wildlife, and spectacular natural beauty, the friendly and good-humored Ugandan people make this country different. Drawn from more than twenty tribes, they represent a tapestry of traditions, ethnicities, and cultures. As a society they are devoutly religious and conservative; as individuals they are surprisingly laid back. English is widely spoken but there are many cultural pitfalls to be aware of—differences in expectations, customs, and ways of behaving.