|
Travel to Libya
There are flights to Tripoli
International Airport from many major European and African
cities. Airlines include KLM, Swiss International, Austrian Air,
Lufthansa, British Airways, Alitalia, Afriqiyah Airways, Air
Malta, Egypt Air and others. There is also road access from
Egypt and Tunisia.
Visas & Immigration
In most cases, independent
travel is not possible for Libyan tourists, and travel must be
organized though a tour operator. Visas are required for
tourists of most countries. We can arrange for your visa and make
all
your travel
arrangements.
Currency & money
The Libyan dinar is the
official currency of the country. As of January, 2008, the dinar is equal to about 0.56 Euros and 0.82 American dollars.
You will be able to exchange
money at the official rate of exchange at Tripoli airport, and
at major banks in Tripoli, Benghazi and other centres. Euros and
American dollars are easiest to change.
Note that international credit
cards, bank (debit) cards and travellers cheques are not widely
accepted, and you should plan on using cash for most
transactions. A few hotels, restaurants and shops now do take
credit cards.
Language
Arabic is the national language
of Libya. You will find some familiarity with English, Italian
and French in the cities.
Weather & Climate
Northern Libya enjoys a
Mediterranean climate, with hot summers, and generally mild
winters. Temperatures in mountainous areas can be cool outside
of summer. The temperature in the Sahara is generally too
hot between May - September; however it is possible to visit
Ghadames and the coastal areas of Libya throughout the year. Nights can be cold in the
winter. Spring and autumn are ideal times for travel in most parts
of Libya.
Food
Libyan food reflects a wide
variety of Mediterranean influences. Pasta and couscous are
staples, and fresh fruit including figs, dates, oranges, apples
are easily available. Meals often feature shurba, the delicious,
slightly spicy "Libyan soup".
Alcohol
Alcohol is strictly forbidden
anywhere in Libya, and we strongly encourage visitors not to
consider bringing alcohol or illegal drugs into the country.
Safety
Libya is a very safe country
to visit. It has a low crime rate, and travellers report feeling
more comfortable and safer than travelling in European and other
countries. In addition, we have not suffered from the political and religious
disruptions that have affected some other countries in the
region. Libyans are extremely warm, outgoing and very happy to meet and
talk with visitors to their country.
|
