Information on Argentina Travel

ARGENTINA IS A COUNTRY IN SOUTH AMERICA
ARGENTINA

• Buenos Aires Hotels

• Cordoba Hotels

• Rosario Hotels

• Mendoza Hotels

Argentina Holiday Packages

Entry requirements
VISA
citizens of Kenya residing in Kenya must apply for a visa to Argentina in person at the nearest consulate of Argentina in Kenya. Please note, application procedures and fees may vary by location. If there is no consulate of Argentina in Kenya there may be a consulate of Argentina in a neighboring country that covers the jurisdiction of Kenya.
•  Check the current validity of your passport

For international travel, all travelers will need a passport, valid for at least 90 days following your departure date. However, we strongly recommend traveling with six months validity on your passport at all times.

It is also recommended that your valid passport have at least two un-used pages remaining, for any necessary entry and exit stamps that may be issued. It is also a good idea to review the number of pages and validity remaining your passport well in advance of overseas travel. This will allow for time needed if a replacement passport may be required.

PLACES OF INTERESTS

Mar del Plata -Once a retreat for Argentina’s aristocracy, Mar del Plata today is the country’s top beach resort city. Located on the Atlantic Coast in the Buenos Aires Province, Mar del Plata attracts millions of tourists every year to its sandy beaches and lively culture.

Cordoba,- At the geographical center of Argentina is Cordoba, the country’s second largest city. Surrounded by picturesque valleys and mountains, Cordoba is best known for its concentration of Spanish colonial buildings. Most of these historic palaces, churches and monuments are found in the city center within an area known as the Jesuit Block.

Puerto Madryn -Located on the shores of Gulfo Nuevo, the city of Puerto Madryn is best known as the gateway to Peninsula Valdes. It is also a popular summer destination because of its beautiful beaches although the water can be very cold.

Bariloche -With its chocolate shops, Swiss-style architecture and picturesque setting of pristine lakes and snow-capped mountains, San Carlos de Bariloche appears more like a village in Switzerland. Instead, it is an enchanting city in the Río Negro Province of Argentina. Commonly referred to as simply Bariloche, San Carlos also serves as a gateway to spectacular landscapes and outdoor adventures

Ushuaia -Formerly used as a penal colony because of its isolated location, Ushuaia’s remote beauty is now what makes it one of the most popular places to visit in Argentina. Regarded as the world’s southernmost city, Ushuaia is located on the Beagle Channel, serving as a popular base for Antarctica cruises, winter sports and wildlife viewing.

Mendoza -Located in Latin America’s largest wine producing region, Mendoza is a popular tourist destination not only for its wine but also for its proximity to Aconcagua, the highest mountain in the Americas. Furthermore, Mendoza offers access to beautiful scenery and outdoor adventures such as hiking, horse riding, river rafting and more.

El Calafate –Formerly a sleepy town in a remote region of Patagonia, El Calafate is now a booming tourist town thanks to the establishment of the nearby Los Glaciares National Park. Located in Argentina’s Santa Cruz Province, El Calafate serves as a starting point for many tourist excursions of which the Perito Moreno Glacier is the most popular due to its spectacular display of cracking and thundering ice breaks.

Los Glaciares -Los Glaciares or Glaciers National Park is home to some of the world’s most awe-inspiring natural wonders. Located in the Santa Cruz Province of the vast Patagonia region, the national park features the largest ice cap outside of Greenland and Antarctica. While the glaciers are located in the southern section of the park, the northern section features majestic mountains such as Mount Fitz Roy, offering hiking and mountain climbing.

Buenos Aires -Pulsating with vitality and seductive charm from colorful European architecture to animated neighborhoods, sensational shopping, gourmet cuisine and sizzling nightlife, it is no wonder that Buenos Aires gave birth to the captivating tango dance. Located off the southeastern coast of South America, Buenos Aires is the capital city of Argentina and one of Latin America’s largest cities.

Iguazu Falls –One of the world’s most stunning natural wonders, Iguazu Falls is a series of magnificent waterfalls located on the Iguazu River, straddling the border between Brazil and Argentina. The town on the Argentine side is called Puerto Iguazu and is small and pretty. It also it offers some of the best hostels, top-end hotels and spas in Argentina.

Information on Australia Travel

Australia is a country in South West Pacific Asia

• Sydney Hotels

• Adelaide Hotels

• Perth Hotels

• Brisbane Hotels

• Melbourne Hotels

Australia Holiday Packages

Information on Austria Travel

Vienna is the capital and largest city of Austria and one of the nine states of Austria

Austria Holiday Packages

Information on Benin Travel

Capital:     Porto Novo

• Cotonou Hotels

• Porto Novo Hotels

Benin Holiday Packages

Benin tourist / business  visa is required for citizens of Kenya.

Currently VisaHQ visa services are for residents of the United States, Canada, United Kingdom, UAE, India, Germany and Indonesia.

Citizens of Kenya residing in Kenya must apply a visa to Beninto Benin in person at the nearest nearest consulate of Benin in Kenya.. Please note, application procedures and fees may vary by location. If there is no consulate of Benin in Kenya there may be a consulate of Benin in a neighboring country that covers the jurisdiction of Kenya.

While we cannot process your travel visa request, travelers should take note of the following advice:

•Check the current validity of your passport

For international travel, all travelers will need a passport, valid for at least 90 days following your departure date. However, we strongly recommend traveling with six months validity on your passport at all times.

It is also recommended that your valid passport have at least two un-used pages remaining, for any necessary entry and exit stamps that may be issued. It is also a good idea to review the number of pages and validity remaining your passport well in advance of overseas travel. This will allow for time needed if a replacement passport may be required.

Information on Botswana Travel

Botswana, officially the Republic of Botswana, is a landlocked country located in Southern Africa. The citizens refer to themselves as Batswana.

Capital: Gaborone
President: Ian Khama
Government: Parliamentary republic

• Gaborone Hotels

• Maun Hotels

• Molepolole Hotels

• Selebi Phikwe Hotels

Botswana Holiday Packages

Botswana, officially the Republic of Botswana, is a landlocked country located in Southern Africa.

visa

British nationals do not need a visa to enter Botswana for stays of up to 90 days. Overstaying can cause delays on departure. If you wish to extend your stay, seek an extension from the Department of Immigration.

Passport validity

Your passport should be valid for a minimum period of 6 months from the date of entry into Botswana.

The Botswana authorities have confirmed they will accept British passports extended by 12 months by British Embassies and Consulates under additional measures put in place in mid-2014.

Yellow fever

Yellow Fever vaccination is required for travellers who are arriving from, or have transited through, countries with risk of yellow fever transmission.

UK Emergency Travel Documents

UK Emergency Travel Documents (ETDs) are valid for entry into Botswana. However, unlike with a full validity UK passport, ETD holders must apply for the appropriate Botswana visa or be in possession of a residence permit before travelling to Botswana.

Travel to or from South Africa

If you are planning to enter South Africa before or after you visit Botswana, you should be aware that while South African authorities state officially that only 1 blank passport page is required for entry, some officials insist on two blank pages. Make sure you have two blank pages in your passport if you are travelling through South Africa.

Information on Burkina Faso Travel

Burkina Faso is a landlocked country in West Africa around 274,200 square kilometers (105,900 sq. mi) in size. It is surrounded by six countries: Mali to the north; Niger to the east; Benin to the southeast; Togo and Ghana to the south; and Ivory Coast to the southwest. Its capital is Ouagadougou. As of 2014, its population was estimated at just over 17.3 million.[1]
Formerly called the Republic of Upper Volta, the country was renamed “Burkina Faso” on 4 August 1984 by then-President Thomas Sankara. Residents of Burkina Faso are known as Burkinabe French is an official language of government and business.
ENTRY REQUIREMENTS
Visa
Visitors to Burkina Faso must obtain a visa from one of the Burkina Faso diplomatic missions unless they come from one of the visa exempt countries or countries whose citizens may obtain a visa on arrival
Places to visit in Burkina faso
Ougadougou
It is the country’s capital and as such, often gets chaotic. But we have to credit Ougadougou for being a major cultural center in West Africa and even so, doesn’t get boring due to its lively night scene. The city was the former capital of the Mossi Empire. Today, it is the home of the country’s major ethnic tribes.
Bobo-Dioulasso
The city is one of the top tourist attractions in Burkina Faso. It is famous for its culture as well as historical monuments. What makes Bobo-Dioulasso distinct is its combination of architectural styles – a fusion of French and Sudanese designs. One of its main attractions is the Great Mosque whose design was inspired by the mosque of Djenne. The local train station is also noteworthy. For a taste of culture, visit the Grande Marché which features artworks of tribes from all over West Africa. Like Ougadougou, the city also has an outstanding night scene.
Ruins of Loropéni
The ancient stone ruins are located in Lobi. Believed to be about 1,000 years old, the Ruins of Loropéni are nicely preserved for their age. Archeologists are still unsure what the ruins used to be but it is speculated to be the former settlement of the Koulango or Lohron tribes. Both indigent groups are known for collecting and transforming gold into crafts.
Gorom Gorom Market
Market sellers of different ethnicities come here every Thursday from all over the country. They are here to sell goods such as jewelry, printed cotton, fabrics, leather, and handcrafted items just to name a few.

• Ouagadougou Hotels

Burkina Faso Holiday Packages

Information on Cameroon Travel

Capital    Yaoundé

Official languages    French
English

Religion    Christianity

Demonym
Cameroonian

Government
Dominant-party presidential republic

–     President
Paul Biya[1]

–     Prime Minister
Philemon Yang

Legislature    National Assembly

Area

–     Total    475,442 km2 (54th)
183,569 sq mi
Population

–     July 2013 estimate    22,534,532[1] (56th)

–     2005 census    17,463,836[2]

Cameroon officially the Republic of Cameroon (French: République du Cameroun), (German: Republik Kamerun), is a country in Central Africa. It is bordered by Nigeria to the west; Chad to the northeast; the Central African Republic to the east; and Equatorial Guinea, Gabon, and the Republic of the Congo to the south. Cameroon’s coastline lies on the Bight of Bonny, part of the Gulf of Guinea and the Atlantic Ocean. The country is often referred to as “Africa in miniature” for its geological and cultural diversity. Natural features include beaches, deserts, mountains, rainforests, and savannas. The highest point is Mount Cameroon in the southwest, and the largest cities are Douala, Yaoundé, and Garoua. Cameroon is home to over 200 different linguistic groups. The country is well known for its native styles of music, particularly makossa and bikutsi, and for its successful national football team. French and English are the official languages. After independence, the newly united nation joined the Commonwealth of Nations, although the vast majority of its territories had previously been a German colony and, after World War I, a French mandate.
Visa policy
Visa
Visitors to Cameroon must obtain a visa from one of the Cameroonian diplomatic missions unless they come from one of the visa exempt countries.[1]
Visitors arriving from Guinea, Liberia, Nigeria and Sierra Leone are refused entry due to Ebola virus epidemic in West Africa.

• Douala Hotels

• Yaounde Hotels

• Bamenda Hotels

Information on Canada Travel

CANADA IS A COUNTRY I NORTH AMERICA

TRAVELLING TO CANADA
Visa

requirements for visa
Citizens of certain countries and territories need a visa to visit or transit Canada. Please note: Holders of Alien’s passport and Stateless individuals require a visa to visit or transit in Canada.
Countries and territories whose citizens need a visa

• Niagara Fall Hotels

• Vancouver Hotels

• Montreal Hotels

• Ottawa Hotels

• Calgary Hotels

• Toronto Hotels

Information on China Travel

China
Capital: Beijing
Population: 1.357 billion (2013) World Bank
Gross domestic product: 9.24 trillion USD (2013) World Bank
GDP per capita: 6,807.43 USD (2013) World Bank
Government: Communist state, Socialist state, Single-party state
Officially the People’s Republic of China (PRC), is a sovereign state located in East Asia. It is the world’s most populous country, with a population of over 1.35 billion. The PRC is a single-party state governed by the Chinese Communist Party, with its seat of government in the capital city of Beijing.It exercises jurisdiction over 22 provinces, five autonomous regions, four direct-controlled municipalities (Beijing, Tianjin, Shanghai and Chongqing), and two mostly self-governing special administrative regions (Hong Kong and Macau). The PRC also claims the territories governed by the Republic of China (ROC), a separate political entity commonly known as Taiwan today, as a part of its territory, which includes the island of Taiwan as Taiwan Province, Kinmen and Matsu as a part of Fujian Province and islands the ROC controls in the South China Sea as a part of Hainan Province. These claims are controversial due to the complex political status of Taiwan.
Covering approximately 9.6 million square kilometers, China is the world’s second-largest country by land area, and either the third or fourth-largest by total area, depending on the method of measurement. China’s landscape is vast and diverse, ranging from forest steppes and the Gobi and Taklamakan deserts in the arid north to subtropical forests in the wetter south. The Himalaya, Karakoram, Pamir and Tian Shan mountain ranges separate China from South and Central Asia. The Yangtze and Yellow Rivers, the third- and sixth-longest in the world, run from the Tibetan Plateau to the densely populated eastern seaboard. China’s coastline along the Pacific Ocean is 14,500 kilometres (9,000 mi) long, and is bounded by the Bohai, Yellow, East and South China Seas
Entry requirements
for Visas please visit
British nationals need a visa to enter mainland China, but not Hong Kong or Macao. For mainland China, you must get a visa prior to arrival, including for Hainan Island. For details of entry requirements to China contact the nearest Chinese Embassy or Consulate in good time before your proposed trip.
Check your visa validity carefully. Don’t overstay your visa or work illegally. The authorities conduct regular checks and you may be fined or detained for not complying with the conditions of your visa or work permit. If you remain in China longer than 6 months, you may need to get a Residence Permit.
Travelling to Hong Kong
If you visit Hong Kong from the mainland of China and wish to return to the mainland, you will need a visa that allows you to make a second entry into China.
Transiting China
If you hold a British Citizen passport and are transiting by air through Beijing Capital International airport, Shanghai (Pudong and Hongqiao), Chengdu, Guangzhou, Chongqing, Dalian,Shenyang or Kunming, and travelling on to a third country, you can enter China visa-free under a 72-hour visa waiver. You must remain in the city municipality (or within Guangdong province in the case of Guangzhou) and have evidence of your onward journey. Check with the Chinese Embassy in London or the Chinese visa application service centre for further information.
In all other circumstances, if your stopover requires you to leave the airport terminal you will need a transit visa for both the outward and return journeys. If you’re staying within the airport for up to 24 hours, you don’t need a transit visa.
Passport validity
Your passport should be valid for at least 6 months from the date of your visa application. If you have less than 6 months’ validity on your passport, but have a valid visa, you should be able to enter China for the duration of that visa.
The Chinese authorities have confirmed they will accept British passports extended by 12 months by British Embassies and Consulates under additional measures put in place in mid-2014.
Yellow fever
Yellow Fever vaccination is required for travellers who are arriving from, or have transited through, countries with risk of yellow fever transmission.
UK Emergency Travel Documents
UK Emergency Travel Documents (ETDs) are accepted for entry, airside transit and exit from China.  You may be required to show a police report indicating how you lost your full passport.
If your ETD has been issued in China, you will need an exit visa from the Public Security Bureau before you can travel out of China. This process can take up to 5 working days. The ETD can be used for a return journey back to China providing you have evidence of residence within China.
Registering with the Chinese authorities
You must register your place of residence with the local Public Security Bureau within 24 hours of arrival. Chinese authorities enforce this requirement with regular spot-checks of foreigners’ documentation. If you are staying in a hotel, registration is done on your behalf as part of the check-in process.
Stays of more than six months
If you are entering China for employment, study or private purposes for a stay of over six months, you must produce a health certificate, which includes a blood test for HIV, legalised by the Chinese Embassy.
Teaching appointments
Teaching in China can be a rewarding experience but it’s important that you research the school or university thoroughly before you travel. There have been increasing incidents of teachers being arrested and detained (which could lead to deportation) for working on the wrong visas. Some have also got into disputes with their employers, who have refused to pay their salaries.
You can help avoid this by making sure you (rather than an employment agency) research the institution and visa regulations properly before you leave the UK. It’s illegal to work in China on a tourist or business visit visa. If you intend to change employer in China you should check with the authorities whether a new visa is required.
Working in China
You should research your prospective employer before coming to China and get the correct visa to allow you to work legally. It’s illegal to work in China on a tourist or business visit visa. Contact the Chinese Embassy to check the documentation you will need. Violation of Chinese laws can result in severe penalties, including imprisonment, fines, deportation or a travel ban which prevents you from leaving China. A travel ban can be imposed for an indefinite period.

Tourism in China
It has greatly expanded over the last few decades since the beginning of reform and opening. The emergence of a newly rich middle class and an easing of restrictions on movement by the Chinese authorities are both fueling this travel boom. China has become one of the world’s most-watched and hottest inbound and outbound tourist markets. The world is on the cusp of a sustained Chinese tourism boom.
China is the third most visited country in the world. The number of overseas tourists was 55.98 million in 2010. Foreign exchange income was 45.8 billion U.S. dollars, the world’s fourth largest in 2010. The number of domestic tourist visits totaled 1.61 billion, with a total income of 777.1 billion yua
According to the WTO, in 2020, China will become the largest tourist country and among the largest for overseas travel. In terms of total outbound travel spending, China is expected to be the fastest growing in the world from 2006 all the way to 2015, jumping into the number two slot for total travel spending by 2015.
China’s growing economy is also generating a surge in business travel. In China, the percentage of sales dependent on business travel is higher (38%) as compared to the US (21%) and 28% in the UK, according to the World Travel & Tourism Council’s 2013 business travel forecast for the Asia-Pacific region.
Top Ten Destinations in China |
1.  The Forbidden City
The Forbidden City, or Palace Museum, sits at the center of Beijing, directly north of Tiananmen Square where the famous portrait of Mao Zedong hangs on the palatial crimson wall. It was the imperial seat for Ming and Qing dynasty emperors from 1420 until 1912 when the last emperor, Pu Yi, abdicated. It was listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1987.
2.  The Great Wall
The Great Wall winds its way across China covering over 5,500 miles (8,850 km). While the latest construction occurred after 1368 during the Ming Dynasty, construction of the Great Wall began over 2,000 years ago. In fact, the Great Wall is actually made up of a number of interconnecting walls spanning China that different dynasties and warlords constructed over the years.

3.  The Terracotta Warriors
Discovered in 1974 when a local farmer was digging a well, the terracotta army, buried in 210 BC with the first emporer of the Qin dynasty, is a breathtaking site. The thousands of life-size figures have individually unique faces and hair and armor styles appropriate to their rank. The museum of the Terracotta Army is located in Xi’An, Shanxi province.
4.  Karst Mountains in Yangshuo
Illustrating the 20 Renminbi (Chinese currency) note, the karst mountains are famously beautiful in China. Located in the south of China in Guangxi province, they can best be viewed from Yangshuo, a small town outside Guilin, a major city in Guangxi Province.
5.  Hangzhou – Paradise on Earth
China’s “Paradise on Earth”, Hangzhou is a lovely city centered around the famed West Lake. This green city is full of gardens, tranquil temples and pavilions and bustling historic streets to venture through. The hills surrounding the city grow the famous longjing green tea. Hangzhou is close to Shanghai but is a much more laid-back, cultural city.
6.  Jiuzhaigou
Jiuzhaigou Valley is a nature reserve located in China’s Sichuan province. A beautiful example of China’s varied landscape, Jiuzhaigou is famous for crystal blue lakes and multi-level waterfalls. It is populated by a number of Tibetan villages so is also a superb place to see and experience Tibetan local culture.
7.  Potala Palace, Lhasa
Now a Chinese museum, the Potala Palace was traditionally the seat of the Dalai Lama, Tibetan Buddhists’ spiritual leader. Famous for its imposing white walls surrounding the inner red palace, the building sits at 3,700 meters or over 12,000 feet. The Potala Palace is located in Lhasa, the capital of the Tibetan Autonomous Region.
8.  The Bund, Shanghai
The Bund, meaning embankment, was historically the seat of Shanghai’s most powerful businessmen in the late 1800s and early 1900s. The Bund is a fabulous place to see examples of Shanghai’s rich architectural history, illustrated by the HSBC Building, built in 1923 and at the time said to be “the most luxurious building between the Suez Canal and the Bering Strait.
9.  Giant Pandas and Chengdu
Heading out to Chengdu is a great way to get a taste of Sichuan as well as an in-depth understanding of Giant Pandas at the Breeding Research Base
10.  Modernity in Hong Kong
See modern China – and Asia – at the cutting edge with a visit to Hong Kong. Walking down the Kowloon side promenade gives the traveler a view of some of the most beautiful modern architecture in China, dominated by the Bank of China Tower designed by I.M.

• Beijing Hotels

• Chengdu Hotels

• Shenzhen Hotels

• Hangzhou Hotels

• Guangzhou Hotels

• Shanghai Hotels

Information on Congo DRC Travel

Capital City:  kinshasa

The Democratic Republic of the Congo also known as DR Congo, DRC, DROC, RDC, East Congo, Congo-Kinshasa, or simply Congo is a country located in Central Africa. From 1965 to 1997 it was named Zaïre. It borders the Republic of the Congo, the Central African Republic, and South Sudan to the north, Uganda, Rwanda, Burundi and Tanzania to the East, Zambia and Angola to the south and the Atlantic Ocean to the west. It is the second largest country in Africa by area and the eleventh largest in the world. With a population of over 75 million the Democratic Republic of the Congo is the most populated officially Francophone country, the fourth most populated nation in Africa and the nineteenth most populated country in the world.
The Congolese Civil Wars, which began in 1996, brought about the end of Mobutu Sese Seko’s 31-year reign and devastated the country. The wars ultimately involved nine African nations, multiple groups of UN peacekeepers and twenty armed groups, and resulted in the deaths of 5.4 million people.

PLACES OF INTEREST

Virunga National Park: This got listed in the UNESCO World Heritage List and is a protected piece of land. What you will see here are a diversity of Congo’s native floras and faunas. Among the most popular animals to see here are its mountain gorillas as well as its hippopotamuses.

Kahuzi-Biega National Park: This is also listed in the UNESCO World Heritage List. Here, you will see some extinct volcanoes that are always a sight to behold, and these extinct volcanoes are the Kahuzi and the Biega volcanoes. Furthermore, they also have gorillas that are well protected from poachers as well as a plethora of other animals and plants.

Garamba National Park: When you visit the Garamba National Park (also included in the UNESCO World Heritage List), you will be awed by the vast savannahs it has as well as its majestic grasslands and woodlands. These are filled with all kinds of animals like the giraffes, hippopotamuses, and elephants. You will also see here the unique white rhinoceros as well as the black rhinoceros.

Salonga National Park: This is a tropical rainforest national park and is listed in the UNESCO World Heritage List as well. In this immense rainforest, you will see the antics of the dwarf chimpanzee and be amazed of the Congo peacock. This is also made more famous because of the African slender-snouted crocodile or what is also called a false crocodile.

Okapi Wildlife Reserve:  Also listed in the UNESCO World Heritage List, this reserve is popular for the variety of birds and primates that it has. It also gives anybody who visits this place a true sense of what the beauty of nature is about as they gaze at the waterfalls. Be amazed at the wonderful scenery Ituri and Epulu Rivers offer.

Nyiragongo Volcano: Another beautiful tourist destination, this volcano is a must-see in Congo. Here, you will marvel at the sight of the lava lake. But remember, this magnificent sight posts danger to the people living near it.

 Kinshasa: This is the capital city of Congo. Here, you can stay at budget hotels like Al Dar and La Bloque. If you want a nightlife, go to Matonge at night because this is where you can find most of the bars as well as restaurant and popular night clubs.

Falls of Zongo: This is also a great place to go to if you are a nature lover. Here, you will surely love the splendid view of the Zongo Falls and admire the beauty of the nature that surrounds it. You can also stay the night here as you can camp here in a tent or you can rent a bungalow for a night’s stay.

Bombo-Lumene Game Park: This is a wonderful place to spend some quality time with our loved ones. You can spend a quiet and peaceful time in the many small gazebos located here. Or you can take a short nature walk along its trails and rest on a quaint bamboo bench if your legs get tired from all the walking.

 Bukavu: This is a city in Congo that you can also visit. Here, you will be given a scenic view of Kivu Lake. From here, you can visit the gorillas in Kahuzi-Biega Nation

ENTRY REQUIREMENTS

VISA
Visitors to Democratic Republic of the Congo must obtain a visa from one of the Democratic Republic of the Congo diplomatic missions unless they come from one of the visa exempt countries, or from a country with no embassy, in which case they can obtain a visa confirmation followed by a visa on arrival.
Visitors requiring a visa need to submit a legalised letter of invitation from a DRC person or organization. For tourists, a hotel booking confirmation may be accepted, at least by the embassy in Bern as of May 2015, in case the traveler has no contact in the DRC.
Minerals and economy
The Democratic Republic of Congo is extremely rich in natural resources, but political instability, a lack of infrastructure and a culture of corruption have limited development, extraction and exploitation efforts. Besides the capital, Kinshasa, the other major cities, Lubumbashi and Mbuji-Mayi, are both mining communities. DR Congo’s largest export is raw minerals, with China accepting over 50% of DRC’s exports in 2012. As of 2013, according to the Human Development Index (HDI), DR Congo has a low level of human development, ranking 186 out of 187 countries
Economy and infrastructure
The Central Bank of the Congo is responsible for developing and maintaining the Congolese franc, which serves as the primary form of currency in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. In 2007, The World Bank decided to grant the Democratic Republic of Congo up to $1.3 billion in assistance funds over the next three years. Kinshasa is currently negotiating membership of the Organization for the Harmonization of Business Law in Africa (OHADA).
The Democratic Republic of Congo is widely considered to be the richest country in the world regarding natural resources; its untapped deposits of raw minerals are estimated to be worth in excess of US$24 trillion.[88][89][90] The Congo has 70% of the world’s coltan, a third of its cobalt, more than 30% of its diamond reserves, and a tenth of its copper.
Despite such vast mineral wealth, the economy of the Democratic Republic of the Congo has declined drastically since the mid-1980s. The African country generated up to 70% of its export revenue from minerals in the 1970s and 1980s, and was particularly hit when resource prices deteriorated at that time. By 2005, 90% of the DRC’s revenues derived from its minerals (Exenberger and Hartmann 2007:10).[93] The country’s woes mean that, despite its potential, its citizens are among the poorest people on earth, the Congolese being consistently assigned the lowest, or near lowest, nominal GDP per capita in the world. The DRC is also one of the twenty lowest ranked countries on the Corruption Perception Index.

• Kinshasa Hotels

• Lubumbashi Hotels

• Mbuji-mayi Hotels

• Kolwezi Hotels

• Kananga Hotels

• Kisangani Hotels

Information on Cote D,ivoire Travel

Capital : Yamoussoukro

Largest city and administrative center: Abidjan

History: Côte d’Ivoire was originally made up of numerous isolated settlements; today it represents more than sixty distinct tribes, including the Baoule, Bete, Senoufou, Agni, Malinke, Dan, and Lobi. Côte d’Ivoire attracted both French and Portuguese merchants in the 15th century who were in search of ivory and slaves. French traders set up establishments early in the 19th century, and in 1842, the French obtained territorial concessions from local tribes, gradually extending their influence along the coast and inland. The area was organized as a territory in 1893, became an autonomous republic in the French Union after World War II, and achieved independence on Aug. 7, 1960. Côte d’Ivoire formed a customs union in 1959 with Dahomey (Benin), Niger, and Burkina Faso. The nation’s economy is one of the most developed in sub-Saharan Africa. It is the world’s largest exporter of cocoa and one of the largest exporters of coffee.

PLACES OF INTEREST

The animalist Park of Abokouamékro: Located at 60 km from Yamoussoukro, this park extends on a surface of 21.000 ha. It is of easy access. One can discover there elephants, buffaloes, rhinoceroses.

The national park of Banco:  Located at the heart of Abidjan, in edge of the national northern highway, it is a single example in Africa of forest enclave downtown, with wood species (mahogany tree, avodiré, samba, makoré…). One can also finds there many birds and monkeys. Walking Paths were arranged in this park so for visitors.

The park of Azagny: Located at 100 km of Abidjan to the mouth of the Bandama river, this park extends on 19,400 ha. The vegetation consists of marshy savannas strewn with palm trees. Elephants, potamachères, buffaloes, monkeys, chimpanzees and several species of birds populate this park.

  The national park of Comoé: This park, created in 1968, was initially called Réserve of Bouna because located in the region of Bouna. It is the largest park of West Africa. Its varied fauna, comprises a population of elephants, buffaloes, lions, hippopotamuses, cynocephali and several birds.

The aquatic park of the Ehotilé islands:  This park is located at the boarder of the Aby lagoon, in the area of Adiaké in the south-east of Cote d’Ivoire. It was created in 1974. It is an aquatic park and a scientific site of research. It extends on a surface of 500 ha.

The Park of Marahoué:  This park extends on a surface of 101,000 ha and is located in the region of Bouaflé. The park of Marahoué offers to its visitors an environment of quality and has been planned in a way to ensure a perfect welcome. It has of a reception centre and lodging, several watchtowers, pool of crocodiles, buffaloes, hippopotamuses. One finds there also elephants, cynocephali, bongos.

The Park of the Mount Pekoe: Famous for its vegetation (flora of mountain and primary forest) and located a few kilometers away from Duékoué, this park which draws its name from the Mount Pekoe culminating more than 1000 m, has a surface of 34,000 ha. It has an important and varied fauna, composed essentially, of elephants, panthers, buffaloes, cephalopods, monkeys, et…

The Park of the Mount Sangbé: Located at the north of Man and the west of the Sassandra river, between Biankouma and Touba, this park extends on a surface of 95,000 ha. It is located in a mountainous zone (14 mounts of more than 1,000 m of height). It is a particularly rich in quarry and covered park of a very dense flora. Elephants, buffaloes, antelopes and monkeys, constitute the essence of its fauna.

The Park of Taï: The national park of Taï (350,000 ha) got its name from the city of Taï located close to the western border, in the south of Guiglo and about thirty kilometers in the north of Taboo. Classified as “world heritage “in the program MAB of the United Nations, it contains many essences of quality and also constitutes a famous place of scientific and medical research.

Yamoussoukro : Native place of Felix HOUPHOUET-BOIGNY, first President of Cote d’Ivoire and, administrative and political capital since 1983, is itself a true tourist pole.

Western areas ( Man and Touba): The visitor has the opportunity of enjoying the softness of a mountainous climate and the charm of luxuriant greenery strewn with cascades above which the fabulous bridge of lianas is suspended which the making remains still unexplained.

The Northern area of Cote d’Ivoire: The savanna of north with an ochre shade is punctuated of small villages with the round boxes, with splendid doors out of carved wooden.

The Center : At the border of the forest and savanna, this area still shelters at the foot of the Mount Rombo Boka, the old wells from where was extracted the gold which made the prosperity of the baoulé and supported the rise of a very refined craft industry.

The Eastern: With the kingdoms of the Akan and Tanguelan, the school of Fetish.

The Southern: The City of Grand-Bassam, once, capital of Cote d’Ivoire, with its colonial architecture and its splendid beaches.

The South-western : Marvelous falls of Nawa, in the area of Soubré.

• Abidjan Hotels

• Bouake Hotels

• Yamoussoukro Hotels

Dubai Holiday Packages

Information on Egypt Travel

EGYPT PROFILES

Egypt is a transcontinental country spanning the northeast corner of Africa and southwest corner of Asia, via a land bridge formed by the Sinai Peninsula. Wikipedia
Capital: Cairo
Currency: Egyptian pound
Continent: Africa

Places of interest
Pyramids of Giza-Sole survivors from the ancient Greek-listed Seven Wonders of the World, the amazing pyramids at Giza are the planet’s oldest tourist attraction! Known as Cheops, Chephren and Mycerinus, the pyramids were already more than 2,000 years old when Herodotus the Greek historian visited them (5th century BC).
Temples of Abu Simbel-Possibly the most awe-inspiring temple of all ancient Egypt, with its gargantuan rock-cut façade, the great Sun Temple of King Ramses II at Abu Simbel was created to revere the mighty pharaonic ruler King Ramses II. Guarding the entrance to the temple and hewn into the side of a mountain are four famous colossal statues of the pharaoh himself.
Valley of the Kings-Home of the legendary Valley of the Kings and Temple of Karnak, 4000 year-old Luxor is ancient Egypt at it’s best. Highlights include the legendary Valley of the Kings, Valley of the Queens and the Temple of Queen Hatshepsut. The Valley of the Kings is studded with often highly decorated tombs, constructed to once house the regal sarcophagi-enclosed mummies of the mighty pharaohs awaiting their passage into the after-life. Some of the best known tombs are those of Ramses II, Seti I, Amenhotep II and of course, the tomb of King Tutankhamen.
Siwa Oases-Siwa, once the most mysterious of all Egypt’s oases, is also the most fascinating. It’s history has not only been shaped by all major civilisations, but also by the contrast of the surrounding desert with the lush soil of the oasis setting. The modern town of Siwa is set among thick palm groves, walled gardens and olive orchards, with numerous freshwater springs and salt lakes.
Hurghada, Red Sea-Hurghada was founded in the early 20th century and took on a growth explosion thanks to tourism in the 1980s. In reality, the Hurghada of today comprises three main centres and numerous self-contained tourist villages.
King Tut Exhibit, Egyptian Museum-Discovered intact in 1922 by Howard Carter, the Tomb of Tutankhamun is possibly one of the most dazzling archaeological finds ever. Tutankhamen lived over 3,300 years ago during the New Kingdom period. For two centuries, Egypt had ruled as a world superpower, while its royal family lived an opulent lifestyle.
Aswan & Philae Temple-The picturesque town of Aswan is set on the River Nile and it’s start point for both the felucca journey downstream to Kom Ombo & also optional Abu Simbel excursions. Elephantine and Kitchener Island are worth exploring and sampling the restaurants along the corniche is a good bet.
Bahariyya Oasis-Situated in a 2000 sq km depression about 330km south-west of Cairo is Bahariyya Oasis. Dating back to ancient times, it was prosperous until the 4th century, when attacks from surrounding tribes and the decline of Roman rule left much of its agricultural land to be reclaimed by the surrounding desert. The Western Desert around the oasis forms a very unusual moon-like landscape. Remote and surreal, it makes a great place to visit.

Entry requirements
visa
British passport holders travelling to Egypt normally require a visa.
For visits of up to 30 days, you can get a visa on arrival by payment in Sterling, US Dollars or Euros; the visa fee is US$25 at approved bank kiosks within airport arrival halls, before reaching immigration counters. There’s no need to buy a visa from an agent. In many cases agents will charge more than US$25 for a visa. If you’re harassed by an agent, report the incident to the tourist police in the airport terminal.
Alternatively you can get a visa from an Egyptian Consulate outside Egypt before you travel. If you’re entering Egypt for work or business it is preferable to get a visa before you travel.
British nationals travelling to Sharm el Sheikh, Dahab, Nuweiba and Taba resorts for up to 15 days receive a free entry permission stamp upon arrival. If you intend to travel out of these areas or stay longer than 15 days, you must get a visa.
If you have travelled to one of the South Sinai Red Sea resorts, entering without a visa and your plans change you can normally purchase a visa at Sharm el Sheikh airport to allow you to travel elsewhere.
Applications for visa extensions should be made at Egyptian Passport and Immigration Offices. You may have difficulties leaving Egypt with an out of date visa. You will not normally be allowed to leave if the visa is out of date by more than 14 days.
Further information and enquiries contact the Egyptian Consulate in London or the Ministry of Immigration.
Passport validity
Your passport should be valid for a minimum period of 6 months from the date of entry into Egypt.
The Egyptian authorities have confirmed they will accept British passports extended by 12 months by British Embassies and Consulates under additional measures put in place in mid-2014.
UK Emergency Travel Documents
UK Emergency Travel Documents (ETDs) are accepted for exit from Egypt, but not accepted for entry or transit.
To leave Egypt on an ETD you will need to visit an Egyptian Passport and Immigraton Office to complete the exit formalities. Some passport offices outside of Cairo may assist, but in many cases you will have to complete the formalities at the National HQ at:
Immigraton Office Mogammaa El Tahrir, Tahrir Square, Down Town, Cairo 1st floor: Tel.: 27956301/2/3
Opening hours: 8am-2pm from Saturday-Thursday (N.B. The immigration office is a 10 minute walk from the British Embassy).
Please note that the immigration clearance may take up to 5 working days. Please adjust your travel plans accordingly.
Yellow fever
Yellow Fever vaccination is required for travellers who are arriving from, or have transited through, countries with risk of yellow fever transmission.
Previous travel to Israel
Evidence of a previous visit to Israel like as an Israeli entry/exit stamp in your passport does not normally cause any difficulties when entering Egypt. It is, however, for the Egyptian authorities to determine the right of entry into the country. If you have any concerns, you should contact the  Egyptian consulate.
Work permits
Evidence of testing for HIV is required if you are applying for a work permit.
Customs regulations
5,000 Egyptian pounds is the maximum amount of local currency you are allowed to bring in or take out of Egypt. There is no limit to the amount of hard currency that you may bring in, but sums that exceed USD 10,000 should be declared on arrival. Certain valuables like electrical equipment, video cameras etc must be declared on arrival. Satellite phones and radio communications equipment brought into Egypt without prior clearance from the Ministry of Telecommunications are likely to be confiscated. Electrical items noted in passports on entry to Egypt must be produced on exit from the country. Failure to do so will result in payment of high rates of customs duty. Contact the Egyptian embassy in your country of residence for further information on customs requirements

ECONOMY
Egypt’s economy depends mainly on agriculture, media, petroleum imports, natural gas, and tourism; there are also more than three million Egyptians working abroad, mainly in Saudi Arabia, the Persian Gulf and Europe. The completion of the Aswan High Dam in 1970 and the resultant Lake Nasser have altered the time-honored place of the Nile River in the agriculture and ecology of Egypt. A rapidly growing population, limited arable land, and dependence on the Nile all continue to overtax resources and stress the economy.
The government has invested in communications and physical infrastructure. Egypt has received United States foreign aid since 1979 (an average of $2.2 billion per year) and is the third-largest recipient of such funds from the United States following the Iraq war. Egypt’s economy mainly relies on these sources of income: tourism, remittances from Egyptians working abroad and revenues from the Suez Canal.[170]
Egypt has a developed energy market based on coal, oil, natural gas, and hydro power. Substantial coal deposits in the northeast Sinai are mined at the rate of about 600,000 tonnes (590,000 long tons; 660,000 short tons) per year. Oil and gas are produced in the western desert regions, the Gulf of Suez, and the Nile Delta. Egypt has huge reserves of gas, estimated at 2,180 cubic kilometres (520 cu mi),[171] and LNG up to 2012 exported to many countries. In 2013, the Egyptian General Petroleum Co (EGPC) said the country will cut exports of natural gas and tell major industries to slow output this summer to avoid an energy crisis and stave off political unrest, Reuters has reported. Egypt is counting on top liquid natural gas (LNG) exporter Qatar to obtain additional gas volumes in summer, while encouraging factories to plan their annual maintenance for those months of peak demand, said EGPC chairman, Tarek El Barkatawy. Egypt produces its own energy, but has been a net oil importer since 2008 and is rapidly becoming a net importer of natural gas
TOURISM IN EGYPT
Tourism is one of the most important sectors in Egypt’s economy. More than 12.8 million tourists visited Egypt in 2008, providing revenues of nearly $11 billion. The tourism sector employs about 12% of Egypt’s workforce Tourism Minister Hisham Zaazou told industry professionals and reporters that tourism generated some $9.4 billion in 2012, a slight increase over the $9 billion seen in 2011.
The Giza Necropolis is Egypt’s most iconic site. It is also Egypt’s most popular tourist destination since antiquity, and was popularised in Hellenistic times when the Great Pyramid was listed by Antipater of Sidon as one of the Seven Wonders of the World. Today it is the only one of those wonders still in existence.
Egypt has a wide range of beaches situated on the Mediterreanean and the Red Sea that extend to over 3,000 km. The Red Sea has serene waters, coloured coral reefs, rare fish and beautiful mountains. The Akba Gulf beaches also provide facilities for practising sea sports. Safaga tops the Red Sea zone with its beautiful location on the Suez Gulf. Last but not least, Sharm el-Sheikh (or City of Peace), Hurghada, Luxor (known as world’s greatest open air museum/ or City of the 1/3 of world monuments), Dahab, Ras Sidr, Marsa Alam, Safaga and the northern coast of the Mediterranean are major tourist’s destinations of the recreational tourism.
With a lot of touristic activities in Egypt it’s considered a fun place for historical, religious, medical and entertainment tourism. To enter Egypt, it is necessary to have a valid passport and in most cases a visa. In addition to UK and EU nationals, citizens of the following countries can obtain visa upon arrival at any of the Egyptian ports of entry: Australia, Canada, Croatia, Georgia, Japan, New Zealand, Norway, Macedonia, Republic of Korea, Russian Federation, Serbia, Ukraine and USA.[184] Nationals from UK, EU and USA traveling to Sharm El Sheikh, Dahab, Nuweiba and Taba resorts, for a maximum of 15 days, do not require a visa prior to traveling as a free entry permission stamp will be granted upon arrival.

• Cairo Hotels

• Aswan Hotels

• El Gouna Hotels

• Safaga Hotels

• Dahab Hotels

• Alexandria Hotels

• Luxor Hotels

• Hurghada Hotels

Egypt Holiday Packages

Information on Ethiopia Travel

Ethiopia facts

Officially known as the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia, is a country located in the Horn of Africa. It is bordered by Eritrea to the north and northeast, Djibouti and Somalia to the east, Sudan and South Sudan to the west, and Kenya to the south. With around 88 million inhabitants,[3] Ethiopia is the most populous landlocked country in the world, as well as the second-most populated nation on the African continent. It occupies a total area of 1,100,000 square kilometres (420,000 sq mi), and its capital and largest city is Addis Ababa.

HISTORY OF ETHIOPIA

Ethiopia is the oldest independent country in Africa and one of the oldest in the world. Herodotus, the Greek historian of the fifth century B.C., describes ancient Ethiopia in his writings. The Old Testament of the Bible records the Queen of Sheba’s visit to Jerusalem. According to legend, Menelik I, the son of King Solomon and the Queen of Sheba, founded the Ethiopian Empire. Missionaries from Egypt and Syria introduced Christianity in the fourth century. Following the rise of Islam in the seventh century, Ethiopia was gradually cut off from European Christendom.

Known as Abyssinia until the 20th century, Ethiopia was ruled by the powerful kingdom of Aksum in the first centuries. In the 15th century, a Coptic Christian empire and the system of rule by absolutist monarch were established. After the 1500s, Ethiopia divided into a number of small kingdoms, which were reunified by Menelik II in the 1880s. Emperor Haile Selassie I succeeded to Ethiopia’s throne in 1931. He was deposed in 1974, and a socialist state was instituted under Mengistu Haile Mariam. A year later, the monarchy was officially abolished and Ethiopia became a republic. Mengistu was ousted in 1991 by the Ethiopian People’s Revolutionary Democratic Front (EPRDF), which took over rule of the country. In 1995, the government, run primarily by members of the EPRDF, proclaimed the country the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia.

President Meles Zenawi and members of the Transitional Government of Ethiopia (TGE) pledged to oversee the formation of a multi-party democracy. The election for a 547-member constituent assembly was held in June 1994, and this assembly adopted the constitution of the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia in December 1994. The elections for Ethiopia’s first popularly chosen national parliament and regional legislatures were held in May and June 1995. Most opposition parties chose to boycott these elections, ensuring a landslide victory for the EPRDF, originally formed in 1989. International and non-governmental observers concluded

That opposition parties would have been able to participate had they chosen to do so. The government of the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia was installed in August 1995 with Meles Zenawi as the acting prime minister. Mr. Zenawi remained in that position until his death in August 2012. Former Deputy Prime Minister Hailemariam Desalegn became prime minister, marking the first peaceful transition of power in decades

Economy

According to the IMF, Ethiopia was one of the fastest growing economies in the world, registering over 10% economic growth from 2004 through 2009. It was the fastest-growing non-oil-dependent African economy in the years 2007 and 2008.Growth has decelerated moderately in 2012 to 7% and is projected to be 6.5% in the future .

Ethiopia’s growth performance and considerable development gains came under threat during 2008 and 2011 with the emergence of twin macroeconomic challenges of high inflation and a difficult balance of payments situation. Inflation surged to 40% in August 2011 because of loose monetary policy, large civil service wage increase in early 2011, and high food prices. For 2011/12, end-year inflation was projected to be about at about 22 percent and single digit inflation is projected in 2012/13 with the implementation of tight monetary and fiscal policies.

The Commercial Bank of Ethiopia in Addis Ababa.

In spite of fast growth in recent years, GDP per capita is one of the lowest in the world, and the economy faces a number of serious structural problems. Agricultural productivity remains low, and frequent droughts still beset the country. Ethiopia is often ironically referred to as the “water tower” of Eastern Africa because of the many (14 major) rivers that pour off the high tableland, including the Nile. It also has the greatest water reserves in Africa, but few irrigation systems in place to use it. Just 1% is used for power production and 1.5% for irrigation.

Provision of telecommunications services is left to a state-owned monopoly. It is the view of the current government that maintaining state ownership in this vital sector is essential to ensure that telecommunication infrastructures and services are extended to rural Ethiopia, which would not be attractive to private enterprises.

The Ethiopian constitution defines the right to own land as belonging only to “the state and the people”, but citizens may lease land (up to 99 years), and are unable to mortgage or sell. Renting of land for a maximum of twenty years is allowed and this is expected to ensure that land goes to the most productive user. Land distribution and administration is considered an area where corruption is institutionalized, and facilitation payments as well as bribes are often demanded when dealing with land-related issues.

Agriculture

Tef field near Mojo.

Agriculture accounts for almost 41% of the gross domestic product (GDP), 80% of exports, and 80% of the labor force. Many other economic activities depend on agriculture, including marketing, processing, and export of agricultural products. Production is overwhelmingly by small-scale farmers and enterprises and a large part of commodity exports are provided by the small agricultural cash-crop sector. Principal crops include coffee, pulses (e.g., beans), oilseeds, cereals, potatoes, sugarcane, and vegetables. A 2012 study suggested that new varieties of chickpea could benefit farmers and the Ethiopian economy in future. This study assessed the potential economic and poverty impact of 11 improved chickpea varieties, released by the national agricultural research organization of Ethiopia in collaboration with the International Crops Research Institute for the Semi-Arid Tropics (ICRISAT). The researchers estimated using the varieties would bring about a total benefit of US$111 million for 30 years, with consumers receiving 39% of the benefit and producers 61%. The generated benefit is expected to lift more than 0.7 million people (both producers and consumers) out of poverty. The authors concluded that further investments in the chickpea and other legume research in Ethiopia is justified as a means of poverty alleviation.

Exports are almost entirely agricultural commodities, and coffee is the largest foreign exchange earner. Ethiopia is Africa’s second biggest maize producer. According to UN estimations the per capita GDP of Ethiopia has reached $357 as of 2011.The same report indicated that the life expectancy had improved substantially in recent years. The life expectancy of men is reported to be 56 years and for women 60 years.

Exports

Exports from Ethiopia in the 2009/2010 financial year totaled $US1.4 billion.The country produces more coffee than any other nation on the continent.Ethiopia is also the 10th largest producer of livestock in the world. Other main export commodities are khat gold, leather products, and oilseeds. Recent development of the floriculture sector means Ethiopia is poised to become one of the top flower and plant exporters in the world. Cross-border trade by pastoralists is often informal and beyond state control and regulation. In East Africa, over 95% of cross-border trade is through unofficial channels and the unofficial trade of live cattle, camels, sheep and goats from Ethiopia sold to Somalia, Djibouti and Kenya generates an estimated total value of between US$250 and US$300 million annually (100 times more than the official figure) Entry requirements

Visas

You will need a visa to enter Ethiopia. Visas on arrival are only available for tourists at Addis Ababa (Bole) or Dire Dawa International airports, at a cost of approximately $US50 for 1 month and $US75 for 3 months (Euros, US dollars and Ethiopian birr are all accepted). All other categories of visitor must get a visa from the Ethiopian Embassy closest to their place of legal residence before travelling. Penalties for overstaying your visa can be severe (see below – Immigration Status).

If you travel to Ethiopia as a tourist you won’t be able to take employment, including voluntary employment. If you are caught in breach of your immigration status you may face a severe fine or possible imprisonment.

Passport validity

Your passport should be valid for a minimum period of 6 months from the date of entry into Ethiopia. Make sure you have two blank pages in your passport on arrival.

Yellow fever certificate

Yellow Fever vaccination is required for travellers who are arriving from, or have transited through, countries with risk of yellow fever transmission.

Immigration status

Once you are in Ethiopia you will not be able to change your immigration status. If you have any concerns about your immigration status in Ethiopia, you should contact the local immigration authorities:

Security, Immigration and Refugee Affairs Authority

Tourist visitors to Ethiopia should be aware that they will be unable to take employment, including voluntary employment, whilst visiting Ethiopia on a tourist visa. If visitors are caught in breach of their immigration status they may face severe fines or possible imprisonment.

Emergency Travel Documents : UK Emergency Travel Documents are accepted for entry, airside transit and exit from Ethiopia.

• Addis Ababa Hotels

Ethiopia Holiday Packages

Information on France Travel

Capital and largest city : Paris

History: Archeological excavations indicate that France has been continuously settled since Paleolithic times. The Celts, who were later called Gauls by the Romans, migrated from the Rhine valley into what is now France. In about 600 B.C., Greeks and Phoenicians established settlements along the Mediterranean, most notably at Marseille. Julius Caesar conquered part of Gaul in 57–52 B.C., and it remained Roman until Franks invaded in the 5th century A.D.

ENTRY REQUIREMENTS

VISA

PLACES OF INTEREST

Palace of Versailles: One of the best known tourist attractions in France, few places better showcase the opulence and grandeur of the French monarchy better than the Palace of Versailles. There’s a huge amount to see here, from stunning architecture to fabulous furniture, art and antiques and of course the magnificent gardens.

 Mont Saint-Michel: If you’re looking for a beautiful backdrop then this is hard to beat. A medieval town perched atop an imposing rocky outcrop in Normandy, Mont Saint-Michel is one of the top attractions in France and contains, amongst other things, a stunning Romanesque Abbey, medieval church and historic battlements. Be warned however that the steep climb to Abbey is pretty darn demanding…

WW1 Battlefields: A sombre reflection of a terrible conflict, the World War One battlefields are among the most frequented tourist destinations in France. From the trenches of the Somme to the solemn cemeteries and memorials and through to the museums which tell the story of this sad time, these places remain a startling reminder of a history that should not be forgotten.

Musee du Louvre: One of the best known major visitor attractions in France, the Louvre contains world-famous art, sculpture and artefacts from periods spanning over 2,000 years of history. Indeed, the very building itself is a 12th century fort turned medieval palace! The truth is that there’s simply so much to see you’ll never stand a chance of seeing it in a day, so better just to plan out those elements you wish to explore and keep it on your bucket list for another visit.

Nimes Arena:  What is probably the best preserved Roman amphitheatre in the world – better even than Rome’s Colosseum – Nimes Arena really gives you an idea of what it would have been like for Roman spectators. It includes an interactive audio guide and some detailed exhibits to really bring the experience to life.

 Carcassonne: Boasting a fairy-tale-like appearance and a history dating back to before the Roman era, Carcassonne is a picturesque fortified town in France’s Languedoc-Roussillon region.

Eiffel Tower: the Eiffel Tower dominates the Parisian skyline and attracts thousands of tourists every day. This vast iron monument was completed in 1889 based on the designs of engineer Gustave Eiffel, and is one of the world’s most iconic landmarks. The most extensive views can be found on the Tower’s 3rd level at 276m, which has its own separate lift from the second floor.

Pont du Gard: Among the most arresting of these is Pont du Gard, a wondrous and iconic ancient bridge and aqueduct which is now a spectacular sight to visit.

D-Day Sites: Visitors can explore the beaches themselves, museums examining the history of D-Day as well as the locations of operations by Special Forces and airborne troops. While you’re in the area, take the time to visit the Bayeux Tapestry, and check out the history of an invasion which went the other way!

Grotte de Font de Gaume:  France is home to some of the most fascinating prehistoric locations in the world and among the most visited of these ageless attractions is Grotte de Font de Gaume. A prehistoric cave in Les Eyzies, Grotte de Font de Gaume contains a series of fascinating wall paintings from this period and forms part of the UNESCO World Heritage of the Vezere Valley and its many prehistoric caves.

France Holiday Packages

Information on Gabon Travel

Gabon
officially the Gabonese Republic is a sovereign state on the west coast of Central Africa. Located on the equator, Gabon is bordered by Equatorial Guinea to the northwest, Cameroon to the north, the Republic of the Congo on the east and south, and the Gulf of Guinea to the west. It has an area of nearly 270,000 square kilometres (100,000 sq mi) and its population is estimated at 1.5 million people. Its capital and largest city is Libreville.
Since its independence from France in 1960, Gabon has had three presidents. In the early 1990s, Gabon introduced a multi-party system and a new democratic constitution that allowed for a more transparent electoral process and reformed many governmental institutions. Gabon was also a non-permanent member of the United Nations Security Council for the 2010–2011 term.
Low population density, abundant petroleum, and foreign private investment have helped make Gabon one of the most prosperous countries in Sub-Saharan Africa, with the 4th highest HDI[3] and the third highest GDP per capita (PPP) (after Equatorial Guinea and Botswana) in the region.
Economy
Gabon’s economy is dominated by oil. Oil revenues comprise roughly 46% of the government’s budget, 43% of gross domestic product (GDP), and 81% of exports. Oil production is now declining rapidly from its high point of 370,000 barrels per day in 1997. Some estimates suggest that Gabonese oil will be expended by 2025.
Visa policy of Gabon
visa
Most visitors to Gabon must obtain a visa in advance, either from one of the Gabonese diplomatic missions or online

Gabon — Attractions

Libreville
Libreville is the largest and most important city in Gabon. This capital faces the Atlantic Ocean and is the country’s liveliest cosmopolitan center. It is home to many interesting sites, ranging from historic monuments to beautiful old buildings, and nature trails that lead to splendid beach areas. The Presidential Palace is closed to the public, but is still a remarkable landmark, even just from the outside. It is located just outside Libreville, and was built by former president Omar Bongo in the 1970’s. Within the city, you’ll find the stunning Cathedral of St Michael and other destinations like the National Museum and the bustling Mount Bouet Market, the latter of which is the best place for bargain shopping in town.
St. Michael Cathedral
L’Eglise St Michael, or the Cathedral of Saint Michael, is one of the most prominent landmarks and tourist attractions in Libreville. It was built by the French Spiritan missionary Gerard Morel and Gabonese sculptor Zephyrin Lendongo. The best features of this stunning building are its ornately carved columns, which were remarkably carved by a blind local craftsman. Each of the 31 wooden columns depicts a different Biblical scene designed by Ledongo and Morel.

Lambaréné
This historic town is best known for its affiliation with the famed musician and tropical disease specialist Doctor Albert Schweitzer. Part of the Schweitzer Hospital has been turned into a museum, with many interesting exhibits to discover. From Lambaréné, it is also possible to organize a tour of the beautiful Evara Lake.

Franceville
One of the four largest towns in the country, Franceville is also home to the Primate Medical Research Institute and the burial site of the late president Omar Bongo. It is one of the more developed cities in terms of infrastructure, featuring good hotels and a hydroelectric plant that gives the area constant electricity. Among its major highlights include Saint Hilaire’s Church, President Omar Bongo’s Statue, the market, and numerous waterfalls, the best being Poubara Falls, which is also where the city’s energy comes from.
a
Port Gentil
In addition to its beautiful beaches, this island town at the mouth of Ogooué River is known for its thriving nightlife and casino. Local swamps also have their share of wildlife, but if the wild animals are too elusive, you can always head to the local zoo to catch a glimpse of interesting species. The town is home to one of the oldest churches in Gabon, the St Louis Church, which was built in 1927. The beaches of Port Gentil feature water sports centers for windsurfing and other off-shore activities. Fishing is a popular activity at Port Gentil, especially in the expansive lagoons of the River Ogooué.
Beaches of Gabon
Gabon’s Atlantic Coast offers some beautiful deserted beach areas, suitable for different kinds of water-based fun. Pointe Denis and Ekwata to the north and Mayumba and Sette Cama in the south are great places to enjoy the sun and gentle waves. Other noteworthy places to visit include Port Gentil and Cap Estérias, as well as Perroquet, which is great for skin diving.

Lopé-Okanda Reserve
One of the best national parks in Africa, Lopé-Okanda is also Gabon’s largest nature reserve, located right in the heart of the country near La Lopé. It boasts an impressive mix of savannahs and forests, and is inhabited by beautiful species of wildlife. Large mammals and stunning birdlife add to Lopé-Okanda’s appeal.

Cirque de Léconi
Gabon’s famed geological landmark Cirque de Léconi is a deep red rock canyon situated in the southeastern corner, close to the Congolese border. This fascinating canyon is filled with loose sand and surrounded by other great geological formations that attract the most adventurous travelers. Don’t forget to take a guide with you when venturing out into this highly-undeveloped and trail-less nature area.

Gabon National Parks
Gabon has a total of 13 national parks, although some are inaccessible. The sprawling Akanda National Park is best known for its lush mangroves and expansive tidal flats, which host different species of turtles and migratory birds. The Banteke Plateau is a river-crossed savannah, populated by large mammals like buffalos, elephants and antelopes. Cross the river using rope bridges and admire the breathtaking landscapes. The Cristal Mountains National Park is home to orchid and begonia-rich forests, while the famous Ivindo National Park is known to have the region’s best waterfalls. The Loango National Park boasts great stretches of virgin beaches, each flanked by expansive rainforest. If you want to mix nature and culture excursions, head to Lope National Park, which not only features great wildlife and verdant landscapes, but ancient rock engravings. Mayumba National Park is set on a sandy peninsula, a perfect nesting ground for the leatherback turtles, while Minkebe National Park is known for its sandstone domes, giant hogs and forest elephant

Information on Gambia Travel

The Gambia ,officially the Republic of the Gambia and often called simply Gambia) is a country in West Africa mostly surrounded by Senegal with a short strip of its coastline bordered with the Atlantic Ocean at its western end. It is the smallest country on mainland Africa.

Visa requirements

visa

Visitors to the Gambia must obtain a visa from one of the Gambian diplomatic missions unless they come from one of the visa exempt countries.

Capital : Banjul

History : The Gambia, country in western Africa situated on the Atlantic coast and surrounded by the neighbouring country of Senegal. It occupies a long narrow strip of land that surrounds the Gambia River. The land is flat and is dominated by the river, which is navigable throughout the length of the country.

PLACES OF INTEREST

Barra: Barra is one of the main ports in Gambia. The ferry between here and Banjul is one of the few crossing points of the immense Gambia River, it is a main link between the North and South of the country.

James Island:  lies 20 miles from the sea, up the River Gambia. It measures 360 ft in length and 200 ft wide. The nearest land is 1 mile from the north shore at Albreda.

Kotu stream: During the dry, summer months, the stream is not very wide, even at high tide. During the wet season it swells and cuts off part of Kotu During the dry, summer months, the stream is not very wide, even at high tide.

Wassu stone circles: In Wassu each stone circle consists of about 10 to 24 massive and reddish brown stones.The stones are between 1M and 2.5 M high and must weigh several tons, they told me.Similar structures are found in the Sahara and in Guinee.

Botanic Gardens: We paid a brief visit to the Botanic Gardens in Bakau with Habib. After the colourful flowers on many of the shrubs in the grounds of Ngala

Bakau:  translated means “big place”. This is the third largest town in The Gambia, behind, Serekunda and Big place. It has a fruit and vegetable market and a fishing beach.

Juffureh: is a small village on the banks of the River Gambia. It was founded by the Taal family in 1455. It was made famous as the birthplace and home of Kunta Kinte, the slave who was taken from his home and shipped to America in 1767.

• Bakau Hotels

• Banjul Hotels

Information on Ghana Travel

Hailed as West Africa‘s golden child, Ghana deserves its place in the sun. One of Africa‘s great success stories, the country is reaping the benefits of a stable democracy in the form of fast-paced development. And it shows: Ghana is suffused with the most incredible energy.

With its welcoming beaches, gorgeous hinterland, rich culture, vibrant cities, diverse wildlife, easy transport and affable inhabitants, it’s no wonder Ghana is sometimes labeled as Africa for beginners’.

It’s easy to come here for a week or a month, but no trip can be complete without a visit to Ghana’s coastal forts, poignant reminders of a page of history that defined our modern world.

Travel north and you’ll feel like you’ve arrived in a different country, with a different religion, geography and cultural practices. The beauty is that this diversity exists so harmoniously, a joy to experience and a wonder to behold in uncertain times.

Economy

Key sectors

Ghana is an average natural resource enriched country possessing industrial minerals, hydrocarbons and precious metals. It is an emerging designated digital economy with mixed economy hybridization and an emerging market with 8.7% GDP growth in 2012. It has an economic plan target known as the “Ghana Vision 2020”. This plan envisions Ghana as the first African country to become a developed country between 2020 and 2029 and a newly industrialised country between 2030 and 2039. This excludes fellow Group of 24member and Sub-Saharan African country South Africa, which is a newly industrialized country. The economy of Ghana also has ties to the Chinese Yuan Renminbi along with Ghana’s vast gold reserves. In 2013, the Bank of Ghana began circulating the Renminbi throughout Ghanaian state-owned banks and to the Ghana public as hard currency along with the national Ghana cedi for second national trade currency.

VISA INFORMATION

Please visit   GHANA  EMBASSY

• Accra Hotels

• Kumasi Hotels

• Cape Coast Elmina Hotels

• Akosombo Hotels

• Athens Hotels

• Mykonos Hotels

Greece Holiday Packages

Information on Hungary Travel

Hungary is a landlocked country in Central Europe. Its capital, Budapest, is bisected by the Danube River and famed for its dramatic cityscape studded with architectural landmarks from Buda’s medieval Castle Hill and the grand neoclassical buildings along Pest’s Andrássy Avenue to the 19th-century Chain Bridge. The country has a long, rich history, and its culture reflects Roman, Turkish, Slavic and Magyar influences.

Information on India Travel

INDIA
Officially the Republic of India (Bhārat Gaṇarājya), is a country in South Asia. It is the seventh-largest country by area, the second-most populous country with over 1.2 billion people, and the most populous democracy in the world. Bounded by the Indian Ocean on the south, the Arabian Sea on the south-west, and the Bay of Bengal on the south-east, it shares land borders with Pakistan to the west; China, Nepal, and Bhutan to the north-east; and Burma (Myanmar) and Bangladesh to the east. In the Indian Ocean, India is in the vicinity of Sri Lanka and the Maldives; in addition, India’s Andaman and Nicobar Islands share a maritime border with Thailand and Indonesia.
Visa requirements
ECONOMY
The Indian economy is the world’s Seventh-largest by nominal GDP and third-largest by purchasing power parity (PPP). Following market-based economic reforms in 1991, India became one of the fastest-growing major economies; it is considered a newly industrialized country. However, it continues to face the challenges of poverty, corruption, malnutrition, inadequate public healthcare, and terrorism. A nuclear weapons state and a regional power, it has the third-largest standing army in the world and ranks ninth in military expenditure among nations. India is a federal constitutional republic governed under a parliamentary system consisting of 29 states and 7 union territories. India is a pluralistic, multilingual, and a multi-ethnic society. It is also home to a diversity of wildlife in a variety of protected habitats.

MAJOR TOURIST ATTRACTIONS IN INDIA

Agra
Agra’s Taj Mahal is one of the most famous buildings in the world, the mausoleum of Shah Jahan’s favorite wife, Mumtaz Mahal. It is one of the New Seven Wonders of the world, and one of three World Heritage Sites in Agra.
Completed in 1653, the Taj Mahal was built by the Mughal king Shah Jahn as the final resting place for his beloved wife, Mumtaz Mahal. Finished in marble, it is perhaps India’s most fascinating and beautiful monument. This perfectly symmetrical monument took 22 years (1630-1652) of hard labor and 20,000 workers, masons and jewelers to build and is set amidst landscaped gardens.

Goa
Goa is Famous for its pristine beaches, infact 90% of all the tourism in Goa happens only for its beautiful beaches in Coastal Areas. Goa has two main tourist seasons: winter and summer. In the winter time, tourists from abroad (mainly Europe) come to Goa to enjoy the splendid climate

Kashmir
Kashmir was once called Heaven on Earth, and once of the most beautiful places in the world. However, in last couple of decades, terrorism has faded its charm – A place home to Himalayan Ranges.

Kanyakumari
Though there are several places of tourist-interest in the town and district, Kanyakumari is especially popular in India for its spectacular and unique sunrise and sunset. The confluence of three ocean bodies – the Bay of Bengal, the Indian Ocean, and the Arabian Sea – makes the sunrise and sunset even more special. On balmy, full-moon evenings, one can also see the moon-rise and sunset at the same time – on either side of the horizon.

Kerala (Backwaters)
Kerala, situated on the lush and tropical Malabar Coast, is one of the most popular tourist destinations in India. Named as one of the “ten paradises of the world” and “50 places of a lifetime” by the National Geographic Traveler magazine, Kerala is especially known for its ecotourism initiatives, Beautiful Backwaters and Alternative healing massages.

Old Delhi
Delhi, Capital of India has many attractions like mosques, forts and other monuments that represent India’s history. The important places in Old Delhi include the majestic Red Fort. New Delhi on the other hand houses many government buildings and embassies, apart from places of historical interest.

Mysore
Mysore is a tourism hot spot within the state of Karnataka and also acts as a base for other tourist places in the vicinity of the city. The city receives the maximum number of tourists during the period of the Dasara festival when festivities take place for a period of 10 days. One of the most visited monuments in India, the Ambavilas Palace (also known as Mysore Palace) is the center of the Dasara festivities.

Gangtok
The capital of the state of Sikkim, Gangtok is an attractive tourist destination, reflecting a unique ambience which derives from its happy blend of tradition and modernity. Alongside the deeply felt presence of stupas and monasteries, Gangtok also bustles like any other thriving town.

India Holiday Packages

Information on Israel Travel

ISRAEL
Israel, officially the State of Israel is a country in Western Asia, situated at the southeastern shore of the Mediterranean Sea. It shares land borders with Lebanon to the north, Syria in the northeast, Jordan on the east, the Palestinian territories comprising the West Bank and Gaza Strip to the east and west, respectively, Egypt to the southwest, and the Gulf of Aqaba in the Red Sea to the south. It contains geographically diverse features within its relatively small area. Israel’s financial center is Tel Aviv, while Jerusalem is both its designated capital and the most populous individual city under the country’s governmental administration. Israeli sovereignty over Jerusalem is internationally disputed.
VISA AND ENTRY REQUIREMENTS
VISA
Visitors to Israel must obtain a visa from one of the Israeli diplomatic missions unless they come from one of the visa exempt countries. All visitors must hold a passport that is valid for 6 months after the date of departure from Israel
HEALTH
In general, no special immunizations or medications are necessary for travel to Israel. Insect repellents and other measures to prevent mosquito bites are recommended in the late summer and fall, due to the presence of West Nile virus.
ECONOMY
The economy of Israel is a technologically advanced market economy.[13] As of 2013, Israel ranks 19th among 187 nations on the UN’s Human Development Index, which places it in the category of “Very Highly Developed”.
The major industrial sectors include high-technology products, metal products, electronic and biomedical equipment, agricultural products, processed foods, chemicals, pharmaceuticals, and transport equipment; the Israeli diamond industry is one of the world’s centers for diamond cutting and polishing. Relatively poor in natural resources, Israel depends on imports of petroleum, raw materials, wheat, motor vehicles, uncut diamonds and production inputs, though the country’s nearly total reliance on energy imports may change with recent discoveries of large natural gas reserves off its coast .Israel is active in software, telecommunication and semiconductors development

TOP PLACES FOR VISIT
Tel Aviv & Jaffa – Tel Aviv is Israel‘s commercial heart and cultural center. It has a world famous night life, great beaches, incredible restaurants and more. Tel Aviv is also one of the most gay friendly cities in the world. It is often referred as the one sane place in the entire middle east. Unlike Tel Aviv that is just over 100 years old, the old city of Jaffa, right next to Tel Aviv traces its roots to biblical times and possibly even before. Click here for a list of the best attractions in Tel Aviv

Jerusalem old city – The capital city of Israel and one of the most sacred places in the world to the three major religions: Christianity, Judaism and Islam. The ancient Old City is encircled by imposing stone walls that date to the Ottoman period and contain within it such holy sites as the Western Wall – the most visited site in Israel and one holy to Jews, The Dome of the Rock and Church of the Holy Sepulchre. Click here for a list of the best attractions in Jerusalem
Masada – The mountain fortress of Masada stands on an isolated rock plateau in the south east of Israel, overlooking the Dead Sea. The story of Masada is of 1000 inhabitants that committed mass suicide rather than surrendering to their Roman enemies. You can take a walk up the Snake Path to the top of Masada if you’re feeling adventurous, otherwise take the cable car. You can still see the remains of the settlement on top of the plateau, as well as the battery the Romans built to get to the settlement
The Dead Sea – At 1,360 feet below sea level, the Dead Sea is the lowest point on earth. Its water is about ten times saltier than the ocean’s, making it possible to float on the water without having to move a finger. Be careful though not to splash water in your eyes – it can be very unpleasant! The mineral-rich waters can be very beneficial for those with skin problems. It is called the dead sea since it’s too salty for any live organism to live in. So all you can find inside the water is more and more salt
Yad Vashem – Yad Vashem in Jerusalem is the largest Holocaust museum and memorial in the world. It was established in 1953, with a new part of the museum opened in 2005. There are numerous exhibition halls within its dramatic central triangular structure. No visit to Israel is complete without it
The Galilee and Sea of Galilee – Galilee is a large region in northern Israel. The region is a beautiful highland, with green  fields, agriculture and so much history. The Sea of Galilee, where Jesus Christ walked on water, the ancient cities of Tiberias, Sefad and Acre, and the Jordan river are all part of the beautiful Galilee. Do not miss it!
Caesarea Maritim – Caesarea is among Israel‘s most wonderful archaeological sites. It was built over 2,000 years ago by Herod the Great, who dedicated the port to Caesar Augustus. Ruins from the Roman and Crusader periods are framed by stunning sea views, and the restored ancient Roman theater is now used for concerts in the summer
Eilat – Situated on the Red Sea, Eilat is Israel‘s seaside resort site. In the summer it is visited by many Israelis and tourists who sunbathe by the sea or pool. You can go scuba, snorkeling, swimming with dolphins, or participate in many other water sports. At night many clubs are open till the small hours of the night
. Baha’i gardens – The Baha’i gardens in Haifa must be one of the most beautiful gardens in the world and can be seen from almost anywhere in the area. They are a memorial to the founders of the Baha’i Faith. Also known at the “hanging gardens”, they span along a broad staircase of 19 terraces that extend up the northern slope of Mount Carmel. The central terrace houses the gold-domed Shrine. The gardens are a UNESCO World Heritage site
The Negev and Ramon Crater – Ramon Crater (Makhtesh Ramon) is an amazing geological feature located in Israel’s desert – the Negev. The crater is 40 km long and 2-10 km wide, almost heart shaped, and naturally carved out by water and climate erosion. The largest crater in the world, it sinks some 500m at its deepest point. Get an amazing view of the Ramon crater from the Mitzpeh Ramon visitor center, where you can stand right on the edge, do abseiling or book a room in the new hotel located right on the edge where you will have a private swimming pool overlooking the crater. The Negev also offers a pick at its wonderful wildlife

• Jerusalem Hotels

• Tel Aviv Hotels

Information on JORDAN Travel

Jordan, an Arab nation on the east bank of the Jordan River, is defined by ancient monuments, nature reserves and seaside resorts. It’s home to the famed archaeological site of Petra, the Nabatean capital dating to around 300 B.C. Set in a narrow valley with tombs, temples and monuments carved into the surrounding pink sandstone cliffs, Petra earns its nickname, the “Rose City.”

Jordan Holiday Packages

Information on Kenya Travel

The Republic of Kenya located in East Africa, lying along the Indian Ocean at the equator,The country is named after Mount Kenya, a significant landmark and the second among the highest mountain peaks in Africa. Kenya has a tropical climate,s hot and humid at the coast, temperate inland and very dry in the north and northeast parts of the country. There is however a lot of rain between March and May (the long rains), and moderate rain in October and November (the short rains). The temperature remains high throughout these months.

The country receives a great deal of sunshine all the year round and summer clothes are worn throughout the year. However, it is usually cool at night and early in the morning. The long rain season occurs from April to June. The short rain season occurs from October to December. The rainfall is sometimes heavy and often falls in the afternoons and evenings. The hottest period is from February to March and coldest in July to August.

All incoming visitors to Kenya (except East African Citizens) will now require a visa, irrespective of nationality.
Citizens of the following countries need to have a visa prior to arrival in Kenya: Afghanistan, Somalia, Iran, Lebanon, Iraq, Syria, Libya, Mali, Sudan, Nigeria, Yemen, Cameroon, Pakistan, North , Korea, Armenia, Georgia, Tajikistan Azerbaijan, Senegal.
The following require visas and may obtain visas upon arrival at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport:
1. Malta
2. Ireland
3. Malaysia
4. Canada
5. Mozambique
click here to view countries that require visa if you are from kenya
If your country does not appear above, visas can be obtained at the Airport upon arrival, however, it is advisable to obtain the visa from the nearest Kenyan Embassies/High Commissions abroad prior to departure. Where applicable, visa fees are as follows, but the price keep on changing:
Transit Visa = US$20 per person
Single Entry Visa= US$50 for three months
(extendable for a similar period)
Multiple Journey Visa= US$110

e-visa information

click to get Visa APPLICATION FORM

On health the following are the recommended vaccinations for Kenya:
Hepatitis A
Typhoid
Yellow fever*
Polio
Hepatitis B
Rabies
Meningitis
Tetanus
Diphtheria

* Certificate required for entry into, or travel between, some African countries.

Always choose food that has been freshly and thoroughly cooked, and is served hot. Avoid seafood. Raw fruit and vegetables tend to be very difficult to sterilise: don’t eat them unless they have been carefully and thoroughly washed in clean water, or are easy to cut open or peel without contaminating the flesh. In the tropics, the easiest and safest fruits are bananas and papayas. Do not be afraid to reject food you consider unsafe, to ask for something to be prepared specially, or to skip a meal. Drink only bottled water, and do not expose your self to too much direct sunlight, t is essential to drink plenty of fluids (not alcohol, coffee, or strong tea, which are diuretics and cause increased water loss). There is a very high risk of HIV and other sexually transmitted diseases. Condoms are widely available,
Finally Make sure your health insurance covers you for medical expenses abroad. If not, supplemental insurance for overseas coverage, including possible evacuation, should be seriously considered. All travelers should visit either their personal physician or a travel health clinic a few weeks before departure.

• Nairobi Hotels

• Mombasa Hotels

• Malindi Hotels

• Lamu Hotels

• Masai Mara Hotels

• Eldoret Hotels

• Samburu and Shaba Hotels

• Amboseli Hotels

• Tsavo Hotels

• Naivasha Hotels

• Nakuru Hotels

• Rift Valley Hotels

• Watamu Hotels

• Kakamega Hotels

• Diani Ukunda

• Shimba Hills Hotels

• Nyeri Hotels

• Meru Hotels

• Kisumu Hotels

• Mt. Kenya Region Hotels

• Loisaba Conservancy Hotels

• Lew Wildlife Conservancy Hotels

• Ol Pejeta Conservancy Hotels

Kenya Holiday Packages

Visa & Passport Information

Visa & Passport Information

Before you buy your airline ticket to Kenya, you want to be sure that you either have everything you need or will be able to get it once you arrive in Kenya. Depending on your nationality or country of origin, you may need to apply for and receive a visa before visiting Kenya. It is important that you do so immediately upon making the decision to travel to the country, and that you make sure your visa does not expire during your travel.

Click here for more information about visas

get a Kenya visa from your nearest Kenyan embassy or consulate.

Not everyone needs a Kenya visa. You can download a full list of nationals who need and do not need a Kenya visa. If you are an American or European citizen, you will need a visa to enter Kenya.

minor visa age 16 years and below

minors of 16yrs and below visiting kenya will not pay for their visas start 1st of February 2016!

Also, make sure you have a current and valid passport. Expect that your passport could take up to six weeks to arrive, so make sure you plan well in advance for your passport needs. As a rule, your passport should expire no sooner than six months before the end your travel.

When making preparations for your passport, it is advisable to make several copies of the actual passport or visa (in addition to the original). This is for your own safety because the last thing you want to do is to be out of your home country without any way to provide proof of your identity, should you lose your passport. You should leave one of the copies at home before you travel, just in case. When you travel with the original passport, always keep it locked up safely, in a hotel safe or other secure location.

Before you leave for Kenya, make sure you have the following:

• Valid Passport
• Arrival Ticket
• Return Ticket
• Adequate Funds
• Visa (if required)

Health Advice for Kenya

Before you travel to Kenya, make sure that you are up to date on all immunizations. Although there are currently no inoculations that you must have when traveling to Kenya, if you intend to visit other countries such as the Democratic Republic of Congo, Rwanda, Egypt, or other such areas that may be deemed infected, you will need inoculations. In such cases, you should make sure you have the following immunizations (depending on the specific area you intend to visit):

• Hepatitis (A and B)
• Typhoid
• Tetanus
• Yellow Fever
• Malaria Prescription

Other health advice when traveling to Kenya is to make sure you protect yourself from mosquito bites, which could lead to malaria. Some protective measures against mosquito bites include wearing long sleeved shirts/blouses and long pants, using mosquito repellent with a minimum of 30 percent DEET, and using mosquito nets. If you will be traveling to the Kenyan coast or Western Kenya, it is advisable to take anti-malaria pills.

Look into purchasing travel and medical insurance while abroad, just in case something happens. These types of short-term insurance services are available through some travel agencies and medical insurance companies. They may also be part of the services you already receive with your credit cards, so check with your credit card company. It is better to play it safe than end up sorry.

Incase of a health or emergency situation while in Kenya, you may need this contact information.

What to Pack for Your Kenya Travel?

Proper planning and packing is the key to a safe and comfortable trip to Kenya. Make sure you keep the following in mind when packing for your trip.

International Travel Advice

Please visit: http://www.fco.gov.uk/en/travel-and-living-abroad/travel-advice-by-country/sub-saharan-africa/kenya1

Information on Liberia Travel

LIBERIA IS A COUNTRY IN WEST AFRICA

LIBERIA
Capital
and largest city    Monrovia
6°19′N 10°48′W

Official languages    English

Religion    Christianity

Demonym
Liberian

Government
Unitary presidential
constitutional republic

–     President
Ellen Johnson Sirleaf

–     Vice President
Joseph Boakai

–     Speaker of the House
Alex J. Tyler

–     Chief Justice
Johnnie Lewis

Legislature    Legislature of Liberia

–     Upper house
Senate

–     Lower house
House of Representatives

Area

–     Total    111,369 km2 (103rd)
43,000 sq mi
–
Population

–     2015 estimate    4,396,873

Liberia is Africa’s oldest republic, but it became known in the 1990s for its long-running, ruinous civil war and its role in a rebellion in neighbouring Sierra Leone.
Although founded by freed American and Caribbean slaves, Liberia is mostly inhabited by indigenous Africans, with the slaves’ descendants comprising 5% of the population.
The West African nation was relatively calm until 1980 when William Tolbert was overthrown by Sergeant Samuel Doe after food price riots. The coup marked the end of dominance by the minority Americo-Liberians, who had ruled since independence, but heralded a period of instability.
VISA POLICY IN LIBERIA
Visitors to Liberia must obtain a visa from one of the Liberian diplomatic missions unless they come from one of the visa exempt countries. Yellow fever vaccination is required
Visa on arrival
A visa may be issued if necessary to travellers starting their journey from a country that has no diplomatic representation of Liberia on condition that the transporting carrier sends a telex message the station manager in Monrovia. If the confirmation is received from the station manager and the copy of the telex confirmation is attached to the ticket, a traveller may board.

Information on Madagascar Travel

Capital : Antananarivo.

It is also the islands most populated city.

Madagascar is a huge island located in the Indian Ocean off the southeastern coast of Africa.

Madagascar is the fourth largest island in the world, approximately 226,656 square miles . The only larger islands are Greenland, New Guinea and Borneo.

Madagascar has two seasons, a hot rainy season which starts in November and last until April and a cooler dry season which starts in May and last until October.

The island has a narrow coastal plain which gets higher as it gets inland. In the center of the island are mountains.

PLACES OF INTEREST

Ranomafana National Park: Located in the southeastern region of Madagascar near the village of Ranomafana, the Ranomafana National Park is one of the nation’s most popular parks.

Masoala National Park: Situated in the northeast Madagascar, the Masoala National Park covers nearly 250 miles of rainforest and includes three marine parks as well. The park features ten species of lemur, including the Aye-aye, the world’s largest nocturnal primate.

Andasibe-Mantadia: Encompassing around 100 miles of land in eastern Madagascar, Andasibe-Mantadia National Park is home to eleven lemur species, including the country’s largest lemur, the Indri. Located near Madagascar’s capital city of Antananarivo, Andasibe-Mantadia is one of the easiest parks to visit.

Royal Hill of Ambohimanga:  Considered one of the country’s most sacred spots by the Malagasy people for 500 years, the Royal Hill of Ambohimanga is a historical village that was once home to Madagascar royalty.

Ifaty: Ifaty is the name given to two dusty fishing villages on the coast of southwest Madagascar.

Avenue of the Baobabs: The Avenue of the Baobabs is a group of trees lining the dirt road between Morondava and Belon’i Tsiribihina in western Madagascar. Its striking landscape draws tourists from around the world, making it one of the most visited locations in the region.

Nosy Be: The small island of Nosy Be is one of Madagascar’s premier tourist spots attracting thousands of tourists from across the globe year round. Although Nosy Be’s beaches don’t look as picture perfect as some other tropical beaches, they do win points for tranquility, clear turquoise water and excellent seafood restaurants serving seafood diner on the sand.

Tsingy de Bemaraha: The Tsingy de Bemaraha Reserve lies in the southern region of Madagascar’s largest natural reserve, Tsingy de Bemaraha Strict Nature Reserve.

Isalo National Park: The Isalo National Park is notable for is varied terrain. Located in the central southern region of Madagascar, the park includes areas of grassland, steep canyons and sandstone formations, all dotted by occasional pools lined by palm trees.

Ile Sainte Marie: The Ile Sainte Marie lies off the east coast of Madagascar. The island’s array of protected bays and inlets drew pirates to Ile Sainte Marie during the 17th and 18th centuries, and the wrecks of several pirate ships can still be viewed from the shallow waters of the Baie des Forbans.

• Antananarivo Hotels

• Nosy Be Hotels

Madagascar Holiday Packages

Information on Malawi Travel

Capital : Lilongwe

Largest city: Blantyre

History: Malawi is a landlocked country about the size of Pennsylvania. Located in southeast Africa, it is surrounded by Mozambique, Zambia, and Tanzania. Lake Malawi, formerly Lake Nyasa, occupies most of the country’s eastern border. The north-south Rift Valley is flanked by mountain ranges and high plateau areas. Malawi is a landlocked country about the size of Pennsylvania. Located in southeast Africa, it is surrounded by Mozambique, Zambia, and Tanzania. Lake Malawi, formerly Lake Nyasa, occupies most of the country’s eastern border. The north-south Rift Valley is flanked by mountain ranges and high plateau areas.

PLACES OF INTEREST

 Lake Malawi (South): Lake Malawi is a beautiful freshwater lake that takes up a good chunk of landlocked Malawi. It is blessed with golden beaches and an incredible colorful variety of fish, that makes snorkeling and diving here extremely rewarding. The southern end of the lakeshore is very popular due to its proximity to the commercial capital, Blantyre.

Mulanje Mountain :  is a huge granite massif in southern Malawi. Its highest peak Sapitwa reaches just over 3000m. There are plenty of hiking routes to choose from to enjoy this mountain, with simple huts at the end of each one. This is a wonderful hike for families, (I spent my youth hiking here) with lots of streams and peaks to explore.

Likoma Island:  It’s home to a huge cathedral built in the early 1900’s. Likoma Island has several lovely beaches with two excellent eco-friendly resorts including Kaya Mawa, and some budget accommodation (check out Mango Drift) as well. Likoma is a very peaceful spot and there are just a few cars on the island

 Liwonde National Park:   is Malawi’s premier wildlife park. It’s setting is lovely along the banks of the Shire river, where you can view pods of hippo in the water and large herds of elephant on the side enjoying a drink and a splash. The bird life is fantastic and you’re very likely to see African fish eagles displaying their skills as well as the rare Pel’s fishing owl. Most people who visit will stay at the luxurious Mvuu Lodge. The best time to visit is during the cooler dry season from June – August as Liwonde can get very hot and humid during the rains

Cruising on the MV Ilala: The Ilala is a large ferry that crosses the lake every week (about a 300 mile trip). There are 5 double cabins in first class with exclusive use of the top deck, and the captain’ cabin (with AC — if you’re lucky you can book it). The Ilala makes regular stops for passengers and freight along the way, including the lovely Likoma island (see below). You can get off at any point, or sail the whole route back to the starting point of Monkey Bay (southern lakeshore). This is not a luxury cruise and you’ll be sharing the boat with hundreds of passengers and freight, but it’s a classic African adventure.

Zomba Plateau:  Zomba plateau offers incredible views, waterfalls, dams filled with trout and a lovely respite from the heat. The 900m plateau is located in the lively old capital of Malawi, Zomba. Most visitors to Zomba plateau will spend a day or perhaps a couple of nights and enjoy hikes along wooded paths. My favorite view is the “Queen’s View”. You can take horse rides down lovely trails from the long established Plateau Stables. The best way to get up to the plateau is by car or taxi, it’s a long steep walk otherwise, and the rewarding hikes are really at the top of the mountain anyway. The nicest place to stay is the Ku Chawe Inn.

Lake Malawi (North): Malawi’s northern lake shore is much less developed than the southern shore. Less populated in general, the North is also chillier during the dry season (June – August), but perfect when it’s hot.

Nyika Plateau: which also so unknown to the British (who were in charge at the time), that they sent explorer Laurens van Der Post to report on it. Laurens turned his mission to this vast escarpment into a best selling book “Venture to the Interior”. He described the beautiful high rolling hills of grasslands dotted with zebra, antelope, orchids and butterflies that make Malawi’s largest national park well worth visiting. Hiking, mountain biking and horse riding are the principal activities here. You can rent cottages at Chelinda Camp. More »

Tobacco Auctions – Lilongwe/Limbe:  Malawi is the world’s largest producer of burley tobacco. The tobacco auctions are held in huge warehouses (floors) in Lilongwe (the capital) and Limbe (near Blantyre the commercial capital) during the months of May – September. It’s a very fast, highly skilled, and totally incomprehensible business, which is what makes it so fun to watch.

Lilongwe:  Lilongwe is Malawi’s capital, a pleasant enough city where you’ll find embassies and government departments. It’s a planned capital, and the population is smaller than Blantyre, at around 1 million.

Malawi Holiday Packages

Information on Malaysia Travel

Malaysia
Malaysia) is a federal constitutional monarchy located in Southeast Asia. It consists of thirteen states and three federal territories and has a total landmass of 329,847 square kilometres (127,350 sq mi) separated by the South China Sea into two similarly sized regions, Peninsular Malaysia and East Malaysia (Malaysian Borneo). Peninsular Malaysia shares a land and maritime border with Thailand and maritime borders with Singapore, Vietnam, and Indonesia. East Malaysia shares land and maritime borders with Brunei and Indonesia and a maritime border with the Philippines. The capital city is Kuala Lumpur, while Putrajaya is the seat of the federal government. By 2015, with a population of over 30 million, Malaysia became the 43rd most populous country in the world. The southernmost point of continental Eurasia, Tanjung Piai, is in Malaysia, located in the tropics. It is one of 17 megadiverse countries on earth, with large numbers of endemic species.
Malaysia has its origins in the Malay kingdoms present in the area which, from the 18th century, became subject to the British Empire. The first British territories were known as the Straits Settlements, whose establishment was followed by the Malay kingdoms becoming British protectorates. The territories on Peninsular Malaysia were first unified as the Malayan Union in 1946. Malaya was restructured as the Federation of Malaya in 1948, and achieved independence on 31 August 1957. Malaya united with North Borneo, Sarawak, and Singapore on 16 September 1963. Less than two years later in 1965, Singapore was expelled from the federation.
The country is multi-ethnic and multi-cultural, which plays a large role in politics. The constitution declares Islam the state religion while allowing freedom of religion for non-Muslims. The government system is closely modelled on the Westminster parliamentary system and the legal system is based on common law. The head of state is the king, known as the Yang di-Pertuan Agong. He is an elected monarch chosen from the hereditary rulers of the nine Malay states every five years. The head of government is the prime minister.
Since its independence, Malaysia has had one of the best economic records in Asia, with its GDP growing at an average of 6.5% per annum for almost 50 years. The economy has traditionally been fuelled by its natural resources, but is expanding in the sectors of science, tourism, commerce and medical tourism. Today, Malaysia has a newly industrialised market economy, ranked third largest in Southeast Asia and 29th largest in the world. It is a founding member of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations, the East Asia Summit and the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation, and a member of Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation, the Commonwealth of Nations, and the Non-Aligned Movement.
Entry requirements
Visa 
Visitors to Malaysia must obtain a visa from one of the Malaysian diplomatic missions unless they come from one of the visa exempt countries. All visitors must hold a passport valid for 6 months.

Information on Maldives Travel

Capital and largest city : Malé

History: The Maldives (formerly called the Maldive Islands) were first settled in the 5th century B.C.

Maldives is the lowest country in the world. Its ground level is averaged at 1.5 meters and its highest point, a certain spot in Villingili Island that stands at 2.3 meters , is the lowest on the planet. Because the country is low-lying, Maldivians worry about the possibility of it sinking, especially now that climate change continues to take effect.

To raise awareness on climate change, Maldives held an underwater cabinet meeting in 2009. It was the first country in the world to do so.

Every element in the Maldives flag is symbolic – the crescent moon stands for Islam, the green section represents palm trees, and the red background symbolizes the blood shed by Maldivian heroes.

PLACES OF INTEREST

Utheemu Ganduvaru: It is a historical residence where Sultan Mohamed Thankurufaan lived. This historical site is located in Utheemu, which is an inhabited island in the north of Maldives. Mohamed Thankurufaan is considered one of the heroes of the Maldives, and earned high respects from the Maldivians for his heroic actions and for saving his people from the Portuguese conquerors.

Biyadhoo Island Resort:  It is a peaceful resort and considered one of the best reef houses in the Maldives PADI Dive Center. The island offers a variety of water sports from diving, snorkeling and many others. There are more than 35 diving spots available in the area, and you can dive in different ways depending on weather conditions and currents.

Hukuru Miskiiy (Old Friday Mosque):  It is the oldest mosque that can be found on the island. The interior of the mosque is superb, and its coral stone walls with carvings of different kinds of patterns and Arabic scripts is truly remarkable. It also houses tombs that have been erected for the memory of sultans, heroes and nobles. The calm and quiet place would be great for people to discover the Islamic culture the Maldivians follow.

 National Museum:  Located at Male, the number seven spot is the National Musuem of Maldives. The building houses a lot of different kinds of historical artifacts that reflect the history of the country. The original museum was the old 3-story museum that is the only remaining part of the Maldivian Royal Palace.

HP Reef:  If you are looking for diving sites, in the number 6 spot is the HP Reef, which is one of the best diving sites where you can explore different kinds of superb coral reef formations and colorful fish underwater. It is a marine protected area located at the North Male Atoll. If you are looking for a close encounter with numerous marine life beneath the deep blue sea, this place is for you.

Banana Reef:  this is the most sought out diving site in the Maldives. It is called Banana Reef because it has the shape of a banana that extends 300 meters from north to south. The major feature of the reef is its marine life, where you can find Napoleon Wrasse, Moray Eels and the rare Bannerfish. The innumerable number of fishes of different colors and sizes, as well as its drift dives gave Banana Reef its reputation as one of the best dive sites in the Maldives.

Manta Point :  is a diving area where you can enjoy seeing large numbers of manta rays being fed and cleaned by wrasses. Manta rays circle several large coral rocks, and wait their turn to be cleaned. After being cleaned, they swim gracefully to the reef feeding on shallow water where you can find plankton. Whether you are an experienced diver or a novice one, you will surely enjoy this unique and exciting diving experience that Manta Point offers.

Alimatha Island:  located at the Vaavu Atoll on the eastern side of the Maldives. It is a complete Maldivian destination for tourists, as it offers world-class diving, aquarium-like snorkeling as well as a central beach complete with great facilities. The island itself has rich green vegetation surrounded by beaches and many stunning sites. With many more things to discover throughout the island, it happily describes itself as a place with a 5-star atmosphere.

Sun Island Resort and Spa: Second best is the Sun Island Resort and Spa located on South Ari Atoll. Its exotic tropical flowers, beautiful greenery, and the stunning lagoons would capture your heart. It is considered the most luxurious resort in the Maldives with Villa Hotels that offers modern comfort with great facilities. Choose from different beach and water bungalows. Offering a truly unique approach to island living, these Bungalows on Sun Island Resort and Spa offer one of the world’s best lodging experiences.

Bluetribe Moofushi: the Bluetribe Moofushi diving center offers the best experience in terms of water sports activities such as windsurfing, diving, snorkeling, kayaking, riding on catamarans/pedal boats, and many more activities.

• Male Hotels

• North Male Atoll Hotels

• South Male Atoll Hotels

Maldives Holiday Packages

Information on Mauritius Travel

Mauritius
Capital: Port Louis
Area: 788 sq. miles (2,040 km²)
Currency: Mauritian rupee
Continent: Africa
Prime minister: Anerood Jugnauth
President: Kailash Purryag
Language:English, Creole, French, Hindi, Chinese, Bhojpuri, and Urdu
Area:2,040 sq kms
Population:1,331,155 (July 2014 est.
National Day:12 Mar (Republic Day)
Mauritius, officially the Republic of Mauritius, is an island nation in the Indian Ocean about 2,000 kilometer’s off the southeast coast of the African continent. The country includes the island of Mauritius, Rodrigues (560 kilometres (350 mi) east), the islands of Agalega, and the archipelago of Saint Brnjjandon. The islands of Mauritius, Rodrigues, and Reunion 170 km (110 mi) southwest form part of the Mascarene Islands. The area of the country is 2,040 km2. The capital and largest city is Port Louis.
Mauritius claims sovereignty over the Chagos Archipelago (United Kingdom) and Tromelin Island (France). The United Kingdom excised the Chagos Archipelago from Mauritian territory prior to Mauritian independence in 1965. The UK gradually depopulated the archipelago’s indigenous population and leased its biggest island, Diego Garcia, to the United States. The US soon thereafter established a military base on Diego Garcia.
.Tourism
Mauritius is one of the world’s top luxury tourism destinations. It possesses a wide range of natural and man-made attractions, enjoys a tropical climate with clear warm sea waters, attractive beaches, tropical fauna and flora complemented by a multi-ethnic and cultural population that is friendly and welcoming. These tourism assets are its main strength, especially since they are backed up by well-designed and run hotels, and reliable and operational services and infrastructures. Mauritius received the World Leading island Destination award for the third time and World’s Best Beach at the World Travel Awards in January 2012.
Visa Requirements in Mauritius
Please visit mauritius visa
A visa is an official acknowledgement issued by the Immigration Office/Embassy/Consular of Mauritius, indicating that your application to enter Mauritius has been reviewed by an Immigration Officer and that the officer has determined you are eligible to enter or transit in Mauritius for a specific purpose.
A visa, therefore, simply allows the bearer to travel to Mauritius up a port of entry and does not implicitly guarantee right of admission into Mauritius. The final decision to admit a non-citizen rests with the Immigration Officer after examination at the point of entry in Mauritius. He/she decides how long the person can stay for any particular visit.
Visas and Extensions of stay are issued free of charge.
Temporary Measure – Ebola
With the outbreak of the Ebola Virus in West African countries, all foreign nationals who have visited one or more of the four countries affected by Ebola Virus Disease namely Sierra Leone, Guinea and Liberia  during  the last 21 days as from the date of their travel to Mauritius will temporarily not be allowed entry in Mauritius.

Categories of persons who are exempted from Visa
The following are exempted from Visa Regulations:-
(a)  Citizens of Mauritius;
(b)  Persons who are residents of Mauritius under the Immigration Act;
(c)  The Spouse of a citizen of Mauritius;
(d)  The child or step child or lawfully adopted child of persons referred to at (a) and (b) above;
(e)  Holders of Diplomatic Passports other than those issued by the Government of Afghanistan, Iran, Iraq, Libya, Somalia, South Sudan, Sudan, and Yemen;
(f)  Crew of a vessel travelling on duty or in transit to join another vessel;
(g)  Holders of Laissez-passer issued by the United Nations, SADC or from other internationally recognized organizations, and;
(h)  Persons who intend to remain in Mauritius only during the stay of a vessel by which they arrive and depart.
Who Needs a Visa?
»    All persons coming from countries which are not exempted from visa requirements – Please refer to Visa Requirement Country-wise (See below).
»    All persons coming to Mauritius for purposes other than Tourism, Visit or Business need to apply for a visa/permit before undertaking any travel.

General Information
»    Non-citizens travelling to Mauritius without a visa (if required) may be repatriated to their country of origin or residence at the transporting carrier’s cost.
»     Any person who stays in Mauritius after the expiry of the period for which he obtained a visa or entry permit as the case may be, shall commit an offence and shall be liable for prosecution by a Court of Law.
»    Non-citizens travelling to Mauritius as tourists/visitors are not allowed to engage in any gainful activities or apply for extension of visa to follow studies/training courses.
»    Any person who wishes to seek employment or to engage in any gainful occupation in Mauritius will not be allowed to enter Mauritius unless he is the holder of valid residence permit and a work permit issued by the Mauritian Authorities.
»    Prospective students are advised to travel to Mauritius only after their application for study/training in Mauritius has been approved.
»    Non-Citizens coming to celebrate their marriage in Mauritius should comply with the requirements of Civil Status Act.
»    A non-citizen coming to get married to a Mauritian should fulfill the requirements under the Civil Status Act.
»     Non-citizens coming to Mauritius for business may apply for an Occupation Permit to Passport and Immigration Officer through Board of Investment as Investor, Self-Employed and Professional.

Note 1: Accompanying foreign personnel of Arab visitors and who are from Philippines and Sri Lanka only are granted visa facilities on the following conditions:
1.    visa for a period of one month will be issued on arrival;
2.    they should be accompagnied by their employer who should be from Saudi  Arabia, United  Arab Emirates, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar or Bahrain;
3.    they should be in possession of a Residence Permit valid for a period of at least three months in the country of residence of their respective employers as above and
4.    they should hold a valid passport or other recognized travel documents where expiring date is beyond date of departure.

• Mauritius Island Hotels

Mauritius Holiday Packages

Information on Morocco Travel

MOROCCO
Capital    Rabat

Largest city    Casablanca

Official languages    Arabic
Berber

Recognized
national languages    French

Native Languages    Moroccan Arabic[b]
Berber dialects

Ethnic groups
Arab-Berber 99%, other 1%
Religion    Sunni Islam

Demonym
Moroccan

Government
Unitary parliamentary
constitutional monarchy

King
Mohammed VI

Prime Minister
Abdelilah Benkirane

Legislature    Parliament

Upper house
House of Councillors

Lower house
House of Representatives

Officially the Kingdom of Morocco  is a country in the Maghreb region of North Africa. Geographically, Morocco is characterized by a rugged mountainous interior and large portion of desert. It is one of only three countries (with Spain and France) to have both Atlantic and Mediterranean coastlines.
Morocco has a population of over 33 million and an area of 446,550 km2 (172,410 sq mi). Its political capital is Rabat, although the largest city is Casablanca; other major cities include Marrakesh, Tangier, Tetouan, Salé, Fes, Agadir, Meknes, Oujda, Entire, and Nador. A historically prominent regional power, Morocco has a history of independence not shared by its neighbors’. Its distinct culture is a blend of Arab, indigenous Berber, Sub-Saharan African, and European influences.
Morocco claims the non-self-governing territory of Western Sahara as its Southern Provinces. Morocco annexed the territory in 1975, leading to a guerrilla war with indigenous forces until a cease-fire in 1991. Peace processes have thus far failed to break the political deadlock.
Morocco is a constitutional monarchy with an elected parliament. The King of Morocco holds vast executive and legislative powers, especially over the military, foreign policy and religious affairs. Executive power is exercised by the government, while legislative power is vested in both the government and the two chambers of parliament, the Assembly of Representatives and the Assembly of Councillors. The king can issue decrees called dahirs which have the force of law. He can also dissolve the parliament after consulting the Prime Minister and the president of the Constitutional court.
Morocco’s predominant religion is Islam, while the official languages are Berber and Arabic. Moroccan Arabic, referred to as Darija, and French are also widely spoken.
MEKNES
Some of Meknes is one of the four Imperial cities of Morocco and its name and fame are closely linked to that of Sultan Moulay Ismail. The sultan turned Meknes into a impressive city in Spanish-Moorish style, surrounded by high walls with great gates. While Meknes is an imperial city with a lot of historical monuments and natural sites it is also the nearest city to the Roman ruins of Volubilis.
VOLUBILIS
In antiquity, Volubilis was an important Roman town situated near the westernmost border of Roman conquests in present day Morocco. It was the administrative center of the province Mauretania Tingitana.
CHEFCHAOUEN
Chefchaouen (or Chaouen) is a gorgeous mountain city in northeastern Morocco. The picturesque medina, set against the dramatic backdrop of the Rif Mountains, is filled with white-washed homes with distinctive, powder-blue accents. It is a popular shopping destination offering many native handicrafts that are not available elsewhere in Morocco,
TODRA GORGE
Todra Gorge is situated on the remote east side of the High Atlas Mountains. Both the Todra and neighboring Dades Rivers have carved out cliff-sided canyons through the mountains.
ESSAOUIR
Essaouira is a relaxed fishing port, protected by a natural bay. It was formerly known, by the 16th century Portuguese as Mogador. The present city of Essaouira was only built during the 18th century to increase trade exchanges with the European powers. businesses
DRAA VALLEY
Located south of the High Atlas Mountains, the stunning Draa Valley, lined with old Kasbahs, Berber villages and palm groves, spreads from Ouarzazate in the west to Zagora in the east. A drive through the valley is undoubtedly one of the most scenic journeys in Morocco.
ERG CHEBBI
The Erg Chebbi dunes are located in the Sahara Desert. The awe-inspiring dunes are as high as 150 meters tall, and one certainly feels small in their shadows. Erg Chebbi special feature is its beautiful unique orange colored sand.

FES
Fes-al-Bali, the larger of the two medinas of Fes, is a nearly intact medieval city. With a population of about 150,000 inhabitants, it is the largest carfree urban area in the world by population. A transport of goods is provided by donkeys, carriages, and motorbikes. The entire medina is surrounded by high walls with a number of historic city gates.

AIT BENHADDOU
Aït Benhaddou is one of Ouarzazate’s fortified cities along the former caravan route between the Sahara and Marrakech. Inside the high mud walls are 6 Kasbahs and a small number of homes.

DJEMAA EL FN
Djemaa El-Fna is the highlight of any visit to Marrakech and one of the top tourist attractions in Morocco. By day this square at the heart of the medina is largely filled with snake charmers and people with monkeys, as well as some of the more common stalls.
VISA REQUIREMENTS
For visa information please visit morocco embassy

• Casablanca Hotels

Information on Mozambique Travel

Capital:  Maputo

Population:  19,420,000

Area:  799,380 square kilometers (308,642 square miles)

History:  Bantu speakers migrated to Mozambique in the first millennium, and Arab and Swahili traders settled the region thereafter. It was explored by Vasco da Gama in 1498 and first colonized by Portugal in 1505. By 1510, the Portuguese had control of all of the former Arab sultanates on the east African coast. Portuguese colonial rule was repressive.

PLACES OF INTEREST

Bazaruto Island : The largest island in the archipelago, Bazaruto Island is about 23 miles (37km) long and four miles (7km) wide

Benguerra Island: Benguerra is the second largest island of the Bazaruto Archipelago, less than half a mile (1km) south of Bazaruto

Cahora Bassa Lake: Situated in the Tete Province in Mozambique, the Cahora Bassa Lake is Africa’s second-largest artificial lake.

Gorongosa National Park: Often referred to as ‘the place where Noah parked his Ark’

Ilha de Mozambique: Ilha de Mozambique (Mozambique Island) is an island in the Nampula Province in Northern Mozambique

Niassa Game Reserve: Spanning an area of 42,000 square kilometres (10 million acres), the Niassa Game Reserve is the largest protected area

Ponta d’Ouro: Ponta d’Ouro is a popular destination for divers and surfers, just south of Maputo along a sandy road.

Quirimbas Islands:  Soon to be listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Quirimbas Archipelago is fast becoming Mozambique’s new tourist attraction

Tofo Beach: Described as ‘the next Goa’, Tofo Beach is in the Inhambane Province of Mozambique. It has definitely become a hotspot

Vilanculos: Vilanculos is a popular destination and the gateway to the Bazaruto Archipelago

• Maputo Hotels

Mozambique Holiday Packages

NEW ZEALAND

Visitors to New Zealand
You will need to apply for a visitor visa before you come to New Zealand if you are not from a visa-waiver country.
Requirements
When you apply for a visitor visa, we need to know that:
You are in good health
You are of good character
Visitor visa fits your purpose for coming to New Zealand, and
You are a bona fide temporary visitor.
Your passport
You will need to provide your passport with your application. The passport must be valid for at least three months past the date you are to leave New Zealand, or one month past the date you intend to leave if the government issuing your passport has consular representation in New Zealand.
Proof that you plan to leave New Zealand
You will need to show us that you intend to leave within the period of your visa. For example:
travel tickets (confirmed or open-dated) out of New Zealand to a country which you have the right to enter; or written confirmation from an airline or travel agency that onward travel has been booked and paid for.
Any non-refundable travel arrangements are made at your own risk as the outcome of your application cannot be guaranteed.
Proof of funds
You will also need to show us proof that you have enough money to support yourself during your stay. This means you have a minimum of:
NZ$1000 per person per month of the visit, or
NZ$400 per person per month if accommodation has already been paid for – we will require proof of prepayment, such as hotel prepaid vouchers.
Sufficient funds can be in the form of:
cash
travellers’ cheques
bank drafts
recognised credit cards with sufficient credit available – we recommend that visitors have an up-to-date credit card statement.
We will also accept a declaration by an acceptable sponsor that they will pay for your accommodation and maintenance. See the Sponsorship for Temporary Entry (INZ 1025) PDF [237KB].
Who cannot get a visa?
People who don’t meet the basic requirements listed above.
People who have committed serious crimes may not be allowed into New Zealand at all. Sections 15 and 16 of the Immigration Act 2009 outline what disqualifies an applicant in these terms.

If your application is incomplete when you submit it, you submit false information or you don’t meet our requirements, we may refuse or decline your application.
How long can I stay?
The maximum stay under a visitor visa is usually nine months in an 18-month period.

To work this out, we:
Look at the last day that you intend to be in New Zealand (e.g. 1 July 2012)
Count back 18 months from that date (e.g. 1 January 2011)
Check that you will not be spending more than nine months in New Zealand during this time (e.g. 1 January 2011 to 1 July 2012).
Visa-waiver visitors
If you are a visitor from a visa-waiver country, you apply for a visa when you arrive by filling in an arrival card. You will still need to meet standard health and character requirements but this will be done with a declaration on your arrival card.

You will be allowed to stay for three months (or six months if from the United Kingdom) on each visit, and no more than six months in any 12-month period.

To work this out, we:
Look at what date your visit will end (eg 1 July 2012)
Count back 12 months from that date (eg 1 July 2011)
Make sure that in that 12-month period, you will not be spending more than six months in New Zealand (eg 1 July 2011 to 1 July 2012)

If you decide while you are in New Zealand that you wish to stay longer than your initial visa allows, you should contact us.
What about my family?
Your application can cover your partner, and any dependent children up to the age of 19. Children over 20, and non-dependents, will need to make their own application. You cannot include your family in your application if you apply online.
Dependent children of Essential Skills work visa holders
Visitor visa applications for dependent children of Essential Skills work visa holders will need to include evidence that the parent who holds the Essential Skills work visa meets a minimum income threshold. See the Visitor Visa Guide (INZ 1018) [650KB] PDF for more information.
Special visitor categories
There are other requirements for people who visit under one of our special visitor categories.

We may ask some applicants to pay a bond or offer them a limited visa.
Medical insurance
We recommend that you have comprehensive medical insurance for the duration of your visit. If you are from the United Kingdom or Australia, you will get the same immediate medical coverage as a New Zealand citizen or resident, thanks to our Reciprocal Health Agreements.
How to apply
Immigration ONLINE – Visitor
You may be able to submit your visa application online.

Most applicants for a visitor visa for one applicant can use Immigration ONLINE to apply.

Gather your documents
Prepare all your supporting documents in PDF format.
Ensure you have an acceptable photo of yourself.
Complete your online application
You need to create an account and fill in an online form. To find out more, visit our Apply Online page.
Making a paper application
If you are unable to apply for a visitor visa via Immigration ONLINE – Visitor, find out how to apply for a visitor visa and get the forms you need.
During your stay
If you are granted a visitor visa you need to meet certain conditions during your stay.
You may not work while you are in New Zealand (unless you are granted a work visa).
You may not study for more than three months while you are in New Zealand (unless you are granted a student visa).

Information on Nigeria Travel

President:Mahammud Buhari

Land area: 351,649 sq mi (910,771 sq km); total area: 356,667 sq mi (923,768 sq km)

Population (2014 est.): 177,155,754 (growth rate: 2.47%); birth rate: 38.03/1000; infant mortality rate: 74.09/1000; life expectancy: 52.62

Capital (2011 est.): Abuja, 2.153 million

Largest cities: Lagos (2011 est.), 11.223 million; Kano, 3.375 million; Ibadan, 2.949; Port Harcourt 1.894 million; Kaduna, 1.524 million

Monetary unit: Naira

ENTRY REQUIREMENTS

Visa

Visitors to Nigeria require a visa unless they come from one of the visa exempt countries. All visitors must hold a passport valid for 6 months.

Recent visitors to Nigeria are refused entry to Belize, Botswana, Cameroon, Central African Republic, Chad, Dominican Republic, Equatorial Guinea, Guyana, Ivory Coast, Mongolia, Saint Kitts and Nevis, Saint Lucia, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, Sao Tome and Principe and South Africa due to Ebola virus epidemic in West Africa.^[1]

Geography

Nigeria, one-third larger than Texas and the most populous country in Africa, is situated on the Gulf of Guinea in West Africa. Its neighbors are Benin, Niger, Cameroon, and Chad. The lower course of the Niger River flows south through the western part of the country into the Gulf of Guinea. Swamps and mangrove forests border the southern coast; inland are hardwood forests.

Government

Multiparty government transitioning from military to civilian rule.

History

The first inhabitants of what is now Nigeria were thought to have been the Nok people (500 BC –c. AD 200). The Kanuri, Hausa, and Fulani peoples subsequently migrated there. Islam was introduced in the 13th century, and the empire of Kanem controlled the area from the end of the 11th century to the 14th.

The Fulani empire ruled the region from the beginning of the 19th century until the British annexed Lagos in 1851 and seized control of the rest of the region by 1886. It formally became the Colony and Protectorate of Nigeria in 1914. During World War I, native troops of the West African frontier force joined with French forces to defeat the German garrison in Cameroon.

• Abuja Hotels

Information on Qatar Travel

Qatar, officially the State of Qatar is a sovereign country located in Southwest Asia, occupying the small Qatar Peninsula on the northeastern coast of the Arabian Peninsula. Its sole land border is with Saudi Arabia to the south, with the rest of its territory surrounded by the Persian Gulf. A strait in the Persian Gulf separates Qatar from the nearby island kingdom
Capital
and largest city    Doha

Official languages    Arabic

Religion    Islam

Demonym
Qatari

Government
Unitary parliamentary absolute monarchy

VISA AND ENTRY REQUIREMENTS
VISA
Visitors to Qatar require a visa unless
They are citizens of one of the GCC countries
They are citizens of one of the eligible countries for visa on arrival (or online visa).[1][2]
Visitors holding a tourist visa must also have proof of confirmed hotel reservation and at least USD 1.400 or a major credit card.
All visitors, except GCC citizens, must hold passports valid for 3 months from the date of arrival.

ECONOMY
Qatar is the world’s richest country per capita, with a high income, developed economy backed by the world’s third largest natural gas reserves and oil reserves in excess of 25 billion barrels (4.0×109 m3). Qatar is an influential player in the Arab world, supporting several rebel groups during the Arab Spring both financially and through its globally expanding media group, Al Jazeera Media Network. Qatar will host the 2022 FIFA World Cup, becoming the first Arab country to do so. For its size, Qatar wields disproportionate influence in the world, and has been identified as a middle power.

Top touristic places in qatar
Katara Mosque, Doha-Katara mosque is might not be as large as a huge grand mosque, but the color, design and patterned tiles represent its uniqueness. These tiles are the remainder of the Iranians and the gulf region, mostly the Shi’ite tiles. With the Katara Mosque the renowned history of the Quasi mosques of Waqif Souq was slightly covered. People are welcome to Qatar and visit this mosque, which well contrasted colors also symbolize the Arabian, Persian and African tradition.
The Golden Mosque, Doha-The lavishness of the Arab countries is well known to all and it attracts the travellers to have at least one tour to these countries. Qatar is one of the rich countries, according to per capita. The Golden Mosque is not very surprising to the Arabian people. But the tourists must visit this golden mosque to watch this minaret traditional mosque. It is a gilded tiles mosque with attractive interior.
Kassem Darwish Fakhroo Islamic, Doha-It is located at the down town of Doha. This spiral shaped new structure is really appreciated by the tourists. Qatar tourism receives a lot from this exclusively designed building. This building was constructed following the Samarra of Iraq, which has damaged in 2005. If anyone watches the night view of the spiral tower, then he is sure to remember it forever. It simply dazzles. The tower is used for multi purpose for Islamic act.
Desert Safari, Doha-If you are interested to visit this land-sea of Doha then you can contact several travel guides who will arrange everything for you including the vehicles and food. You can enjoy riding on Camel or have a great fantasy on the four wheel vehicle. With this four wheel vehicle sand dune racing is possible. But you need to be very careful as the dunes are very unfriendly.
Al Jassasiya Carvings, Al- Ruwais-Al- Ruwais is a city of Qatar peninsula, which is known mostly for its natural view. It’s a little fishing village, but the local dhow boats are very famous for the seaside swarming. Al Jassasiya Carvings are  one of the attractive places at Al- Ruwais. There is a rich collection of petrogylphs and it is about 900. The 250 years carvings are now open to visit from the government. It contributes much in the tourism of Qatar.
Al Wakra Museum, Al Wakra-Al Wakra is a nested city between Doha and Um Said. The small town of Al Wakra was a little fishing village before. In these days Wakra has gained a lot tried to develop as a well established town. There are lots of such places which may recommend as architecturally structured. This historical town is full of Mosques, museums and a marina and beaches and is quite perfect to spend a vacation. The Al Wakra Museum is one of the best in Qatar and Al Wakra.
Qatar National Museum, Doha-The Qatar National Museum is another attraction for the Qatar visitors. The extraordinary building structure shows the architectural skill of the Qatar architects. This Museum was the Sheikh Abdullah Al- Thani’s palace.  The building looks like more than a palace or museum, it looks like a fort. There are several kinds of exhibitions arranged at different times of the year. In recent time the museum is running exhibitions of nature, jewellery, tradition and more.
Al- Zubarah, Northwest of Qatar- is a real ancient of Qatar. It is located on the Northwest side of Qatar and 107 miles away from the capital Doha. The people who are planning their tour in the Qatar can take  a trip to Al- Zubarah. The gulf site is most interesting in Al- Zubarah. The houses here are made of mud and mortar. They are made in a very traditional Qatari way with limestone. These coral styled houses plastered so that they couldn’t be washed away by the rain.
The Corniche, Doha-If you are a lover of open fresh breeze, then the cornice would be the best place for you to spend some good time with your loved one. You can just take a walk by the seaside at cornice. The cornice is actually a curved shape boulevard. The long road by the seaside contains green grass on the other side. The Museum of Islamic Art is very close to it. You can also visit the Hotel Sheraton, symbol of present Doha. The most breathtaking view is of the oyster by the Corniche side.
The Museum of Islamic Art, Doha-The Museum of Islamic Art is the perfect example of how beautiful of Islamic art is. It is structured as very modern architecture. The architect came from America ad china to complete the Museum construction. It was fully ready to entertain the tourists. There is a huge collection of Muslim world art, including the Arab, Persian and Africa. There are arranged many exhibitions of arts, starting from the plastic art to the Clothes of Muslim world.

Information on Rwanda Travel

RWANDA TRAVEL FACTS
President: Paul Kagame (2000)
Prime Minister: Anastase Murekezi (2014)
Land area: 9,633 sq. mi (24,949 sq. km); total area: 10,169 sq. mi (26,338 sq. km)
Population (2014 est.): 12,337,138 (growth rate: 2.63%); birth rate: 34.61/1000; infant mortality rate: 59.59/1000; life expectancy: 59.26
Capital and largest city (2011 est.): Kigali, 1.004 million
Monetary unit: Rwanda franc
Languages: Kinyarwanda, French, and English (all official); Kiswahili in commercial centers
Ethnicity/race: Hutu 84%, Tutsi 15%, Twa (Pygmoid) 1%
Religions: Roman Catholic 49.5%, Protestant 39.4%, Islam 1.8%, indigenous beliefs 0.1%, none 3.6%, other 0.6% (2002)
Literacy rate: 71.1% (2010 est.

Entry requirements

Embassy of rwanda

Visas
You need a visa to enter Rwanda. 30 day tourist visas are available on arrival for £20 or $30. You can pay in cash (sterling or US dollars) or by Visa/ MasterCard. Payment by credit card may not be available at all land border crossings.
You can also choose to get a visa in advance at any Rwandan diplomatic mission or online. www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/rwanda/entry-requirements

Further information about visa requirements is available from the Rwandan High Commission.
If you are planning to apply for resident/business or missionary multiple entry visas on entry to Rwanda you will need to get UK police clearance before you travel. This usually takes a minimum of 10 working days to process.
Passport validity
Your passport should be valid for at least 6 months from the date of entry into Rwanda.
Yellow fever
Yellow fever vaccination is required for travellers arriving from countries with risk of yellow fever transmission. 
Health
Contact your GP around 8 weeks before your trip to check whether you need any vaccinations or other preventive measures. Country specific information and advice is published by the National Travel Health Network and Centre, and useful information about healthcare abroad, including a country-by-country guide of reciprocal health care agreements with the UK, is available from NHS Choices.
Only limited medical facilities are available in Rwanda. In the event of serious accident or illness evacuation by air ambulance to Kenya or South Africa may be required. Make sure you have adequate travel health insurance and accessible funds to cover the cost of any medical treatment abroad and repatriation.
Malaria is common to Rwanda.
If you need emergency medical assistance during your trip, dial 112 and ask for an ambulance. You should contact your insurance/medical assistance company promptly if you are referred to a medical facility for treatment.
Republic of Rwanda (Kinyarwanda: Repubulika y’u Rwanda; French: République du Rwanda), is a sovereign state in central and east Africa. Located a few degrees south of the Equator, Rwanda is bordered by Uganda, Tanzania, Burundi and the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Rwanda is in the African Great Lakes region and is highly elevated; its geography dominated by mountains in the west and savanna to the east, with numerous lakes throughout the country. The climate of the country is temperate to subtropical, with two rainy seasons and two dry seasons each year.
The population is young and predominantly rural, with a density among the highest in Africa. Rwandans are composed of three ethnic groups: the Hutu, Tutsi and Twa. The Twa are a forest-dwelling pygmy people descended from Rwanda’s earliest inhabitants. Scholars disagree on the origins of and differences between the Hutu and Tutsi; some believe differences are derived from former social castes, while others view them as being ethnicities or tribes. Christianity is the largest religion in the country; the principal language is Kinyarwanda, spoken by most Rwandans, with French and English serving as official languages. Rwanda has a presidential system of government. The president is Paul Kagame of the Rwandan Patriotic Front (RPF), who took office in 2000. Rwanda today has low corruption compared with neighbouring countries, although human rights organisations report suppression of opposition groups, intimidation and restrictions on freedom of speech. The country has been governed by a strict administrative hierarchy since precolonial times; there are five provinces delineated by borders drawn in 2006. Rwanda has the world’s highest proportion of females in government positions in proportion to the population.
Economy of Rwanda
Rwanda’s economy suffered heavily during the 1994 Genocide, with widespread loss of life, failure to maintain the infrastructure, looting, and neglect of important cash crops. This caused a large drop in GDP and destroyed the country’s ability to attract private and external investment The economy has since strengthened, with per-capita GDP estimated at $1,592 in 2013compared with $416 in 1994. Major export markets include China, Germany, and the United States. The economy is managed by the central National Bank of Rwanda and the currency is the Rwandan franc; in June 2010, the exchange rate was 588 francs to the United States dollar Rwanda joined the East African Community in 2007 and there are plans for a common East African shilling, which could be in place by 2015. In addition, the Rwandan economy was ranked second in the world in terms of green investment facilitation according to the 2014 Global Green Economy Index.
Rwanda is a country of few natural resources and the economy is based mostly on subsistence agriculture by local farmers using simple tools .An estimated 90% of the working population farms, and agriculture constituted an estimated 42.1% of GDP in 2010. Since the mid-1980s, farm sizes and food production have been decreasing, due in part to the resettlement of displaced people. Despite Rwanda’s fertile ecosystem, food production often does not keep pace with population growth, and food imports are required.
Crops grown in the country include coffee, tea, pyrethrum, bananas, beans, sorghum and potatoes. Coffee and tea are the major cash crops for export, with the high altitudes, steep slopes and volcanic soils providing favorable conditions. Reliance on agricultural exports makes Rwanda vulnerable to shifts in their prices. Animals raised in Rwanda include cows, goats, sheep, pigs, chicken, and rabbits, with geographical variation in the numbers of each. Production systems are mostly traditional, although there are a few intensive dairy farms around Kigali Shortages of land and water, insufficient and poor-quality feed, and regular disease epidemics with insufficient veterinary services are major constraints that restrict output. Fishing takes place on the country’s lakes, but stocks are very depleted, and live fish are being imported in an attempt to revive the industry
RWANDESE CULTURE
Music and dance are an integral part of Rwandan ceremonies, festivals, social gatherings and storytelling. The most famous traditional dance is a highly choreographed routine consisting of three components: the umushagiriro, or cow dance, performed by women the intore, or dance of heroes, performed by men. And the drumming, also traditionally performed by men, on drums known as ingoma. The best known dance group is the National Ballet. It was established by President Habyarimana in 1974, and performs nationally and internationally traditionally, music is transmitted orally, with styles varying between the social groups. Drums are of great importance; the royal drummers enjoyed high status within the court of the King (Mwami) Drummers play together in groups of varying sizes, usually between seven and nine in number.  The country has a growing popular music industry, influenced by African Great Lakes, Congolese, and American music. The most popular genre is hip hop, with a blend of rap, ragga, R&B and dance-pop.
Traditional arts and crafts are produced throughout the country, although most originated as functional items rather than purely for decoration. Woven baskets and bowls are especially common. a unique cow dung art, is produced in the southeast of Rwanda, with a history dating back to when the region was part of the independent Gisaka kingdom. The dung is mixed with natural soils of various colors and painted into patterned ridges to form geometric shapes. Other crafts include pottery and wood carving. Traditional housing styles make use of locally available materials; circular or rectangular mud homes with grass-thatched roofs (known as nyakatsi) are the most common. The government has initiated a programme to replace these with more modern materials such as corrugated iron.

• Kigali Hotels

• Gisenyi Hotels

Rwanda Holiday Packages

Information on Seychelles Travel

Capital:   Victoria

Meaning of Country’s name:  Named after Jean Moreau de Séchelles, Finance Minister to King Louis XV of France from 1754 to 1756

Largest Cities:   Victoria, Takamaka, Cascade

Population:        91,650 (2014 est)

Country Code:   248

Internet Country Code:                 .sc

Area:     174 sq mi (451 km sq)

HISTORY: The recorded history of Seychelles dates back to the 17th century. The islands were appropriated and settled by France in the 18th century. African slaves were brought to the island, and the characteristic Seychellois Creole language developed. Britain took possession of the islands in the early 19th century. The Seychelles became an independent republic in 1976 after hundred years of European colonial rule. A socialist one-party state ruled the country from 1977 to 1993. The subsequent democratic elections were won by the same socialist party.

ENTRY REQUIREMENTS

visa

All foreign nationals visiting Seychelles are granted visa free access. They must be in a possession of a valid passport, return or onward ticket, proof of accommodation and sufficient funds. The Visitor’s Permit is issued free of charge and is initially valid for up to three months but it can be extended for a fee for a period of up to three months with further extensions not exceeding total period of twelve months.

Citizens of Guinea and Sierra Leone require visas due to the Ebola virus epidemic in West Africa. This measure also applies to those visitors who have recently visited those countries.[4] They may apply for a visa online

PLACES OF INTEREST

Mahe Island: Among the archipelago of Seychelles, Mahe is the largest. Besides Mahe is also the gateway to Seychelles. Mahe is the economic and cultural hub of the Inner islands of Seychelles. The island is known for its granite rocks and shelters about 90% of the diverse ethnic population of Seychelles.

Victoria: besides being the main attractions in Seychelles, Victoria is also the capital of Seychelles. It is also the port city of Seychelles. Victoria is in Mahe Island and has a tropical climate, welcoming visitors throughout the year.

 Praslin Island: Praslin was mainly inhabited by the pirates before it was discovered by the French. It is the second largest island in the Seychelles archipelago. Praslin is enlisted in U.N.E.S.C.O World Heritage Site. The beaches Anse Lazio and Anse Georgette are the best beaches according to the top ten beaches of the world. Vallee de Mai is another attraction in Praslin.

Ste Anne Marine National Park: This Island was first discovered and inhabited by the French in 1742. The island is 4kilometers away from the Mahe Island.

 Fregate Island: This Island is known for its granite peaks and is more distinct among the Inner island groups.

 Cousin Island: This Island is home to endangered species of wildlife and lies 6 kilometers off the praslin west coast.

Descroches: Descroches like other Seychelles islands is a coral island. Situated at a distance of 240 km south west of Mahe, Descroches in Seychelles is an ideal getaway for holiday makers and honeymooners. The soft white sandy beaches against a turquoise blue backdrop of the Indian Ocean is an enchanting view difficult to resist.

Aride: Aride, the most beautiful island in the group of Seychelles islands, has become one of the most cherished tourist destinations these days. The Aride Island is located very close to the cousin island. These two islands are famous for their bird colonies and rich vegetation.

Aldabra:  Aldabra is a group of four coral islands, and is one of the most beautiful Seychelles Islands. Aldabra is situated on the southern part of Seychelles and is the largest coral island in the world. Aldabra is almost 34km in its length and it is 14.5 km wide and stretches from east to west. The groups of islands in the Aldabra are enclosed by the coral reef on all their sides. Aldabra Island is managed by the Seychelles Island Foundation. Aldabra is known to have a volcanic origin.

Felicite Island:  Felicite Island is one of the captivating Seychelles islands that feature among the most sought after tourist destinations of the world. The location of Felicite Island is just some 3 kilometers from La Digue island. This island is best for family holidays as the island is quite small and perfect with a cozy atmosphere. Those visiting Felicite Island will be overwhelmed by the natural creations of God. The mouth-watering juicy fruits of the island like mangoes, bananas or oranges can be found in plenitude.

North Island: North Island is one of the most magnificent Seychelles Islands, which lies close to the other two important islands of Seychelles, Mahe and Praslin. North Island is a granite island and is most parts of this island are deserted. The length of the North Island is estimate to be 2.5 km while it is 1 km wide. There are three beautiful beaches in this island.

Cerf Island: Cerf Island is one of the tiny Seychelles islands that warmly welcome numerous tourists every year. Cerf Island is known for its granitic terrain and the several natural attractions of the island draw uncountable visitors. The captivating scenery of green vegetation, the mysterious coves, pure sands, marvelous coral reefs of Cerf Island are real treats for the senses. The milk white beaches of Cerf Island are absolutely irresistible and give travelers all the options to get sun tanned or sun bathe.

Anonyme Island: Anonyme Island is one of the distinguished Seychelles islands, which offers people with the perfect picturesque locations. It is located off the east coast of the biggest Seychelles island, Mahe. Anonyme Island is largely made of granite and is a privately owned island. It is a great luxury to rest in the beautiful resorts of Anonyme Island and merge with the bountiful world of nature. It is pretty easy to reach Anonyme Island as there are ferries that operate from Mahe.

Silhouette Island: Silhouette Island was the very first Seychelles Island to be noticed and discovered and is the third largest island of Seychelles. The serene beauty of Silhouette Island attracts lots of tourist all through the year. Silhouette Island is located over an area of about 2,500 hectares. It can be said that this beautiful island of Seychelles is almost uninhabited.

Alphonse Island: Alphonse Island, which is one of the most beautiful and lively Seychelles Islands, is one of the four islands that together make up the Alphonse Group of Island. Alphonse Island is the largest island of the Alphonse Group of Island. Alphonse Island is 7° south of the Equator and is located on the centre of the Indian Ocean. This important island of Seychelles is situated on the south west portion of Mahe Island, which is 450km away from Alphonse Island.

Bird Island: Bird Island is the northern most island of the Seychelles Archipelago. Bird Island in Seychelles situated 96km from the main island of Mahe, is a 30 minutes flight by light aircraft from Mahe. Seychelles Bird Island is a coral reef covering an area of 170 acres.

Denis Island: Denis Island, one of the many islands that form the beautiful archipelago of Seychelles on the west of Indian Ocean, is not only a beautiful island, but also a very popular tourist destination. The island has got some fabulous beaches surrounded by palm trees, making the island an ideal tourists destination. The Denis Island is located at a distance of 60 miles from the Island of Mahe.

La Digue Island: La Digue Island is the fourth largest in the Seychelles Archipelago. This Seychelles island of area 15 sq. km. is named after French explorer Captain Dufresne’s ship. La Digue in Seychelles is inhabited by 2,000 people, and has colonial type houses.

• Mahe Island Hotels

• Praslin Island Hotels

Seychelles Holiday Packages

Information on Singapore Travel

Singapore is a sovereign state located in Southeast Asia and is officially known as the Republic of Singapore. It lies in the southern tip of Malay Peninsula, 137 kilometres north of the equator. Singapore has many neighbouring countries including Thailand, Bangkok, Cambodia, Indonesia, the Philippines andMalaysia.

Singapore Holiday Packages

Information on South Africa Travel

SOUTH AFRICA TRAVEL ADVICE

South Africa, officially the Republic of South Africa, is a country located in Southern Africa. It has 2,798 kilometers of coastline that stretches along the South Atlantic and Indian oceans. Wikipedia
Capitals:  Pretoria, Cape Town, Bloemfontein
Entry requirements
Passport validity
Your passport should be valid for a minimum period of 30 days from the date of exit from South Africa.
Your passport should have at least 2 blank pages when you present it at immigration to enter or leave South Africa.

visa requirement

Note kenyans require visa to South africa at usd 54.

If you’re visiting South Africa on holiday for up to 90 days, you don’t need a visa.For more information on visas contact the South African High Commission or the South African Department of Home Affairs.
Travelling with children
New rules will apply from 1 June 2015. Parents travelling with children into or out of South Africa may be asked to show the child’s unabridged (full) birth certificate, and where only one parent is accompanying, parental or legal consent for the child to travel (eg an affidavit from the other parent, a court order or – if applicable – a death certificate). You should travel with these documents in case you’re asked to provide them. There are other requirements for children travelling unaccompanied or with adults who are not their parents. For more information, contact the South African High Commission or the South African Department of Home Affairs.

• Johannesburg Hotels

• Pretoria Hotels

• Cape Town Hotels

South Africa Holiday Packages

Information on South Sudan Travel

SOUTH SUDAN

South Sudan, officially the Republic of South Sudan, is a landlocked country in northeastern Africa that gained its independence from Sudan in 2011. Its current capital is Juba, which is also its largest city.

Capital: Juba

Founded: July 9, 2011

President: Salva Kiir Mayardit

Population: 11.3 million (2013) World Bank

Currency: South Sudanese pound

Official language: English

Government: Presidential system, Federal republic, Representative democracy, Republic

Entry requirements

Visas

British nationals need a visa before travel to enter South Sudan. The South Sudanese Embassy in London (telephone: 020 7483 9262) issue single entry visas at a cost of £35. Multiple entry visas are not available.

Visas are valid for 1 month. If you wish to stay in South Sudan for longer than 1 month you will need to apply for an extension at the Ministry of Interior in Juba.

If you are travelling by land to neighbouring countries check the visa requirements for entry at border crossings. These may be different to when entering via an international airport.

Passport validity

Your passport should be valid for a minimum period of six months from the date of entry into South Sudan.

Yellow fever

You must produce a yellow fever vaccination certificate when applying for a visa and on arrival in South Sudan.

UK Emergency Travel Document (ETD)

UK ETDs are not valid for entry into, airside transit and exit from South Sudan.

TOURISM  IN SOUTH SUDAN

potential tourist destinations in South Sudan

1 – BANDINGALO NATIONAL PARK

Bandingalo (also spelled as Bandingilo or Badingilo), is located in South Sudan’s Equatoria region, within the states of Central Equatoria and Eastern Equatoria. It was established in 1992. Situated in a wooded area near the White Nile River, it is over 10,000 square kilometres (3,900 sq mi) in size.

2 – Nimule National Park

On the border with Uganda is Nimule National Park. The Nile River cuts along the eastern border of the park for 48 kilometers. The road from Uganda to Juba cuts along the eastern border of the park next to the Nile. The park has 41,000 hectares or 101,270 acres and was originally created to protect the White Rhino, which is now extinct. The park is the most accessible of South Sudan’s parks..

3 – BOMA NATIONAL PARK

Boma National Park, Africa’s largest wildlife reserve, where you can witness migration on the scale of that of the Serengeti. As water sources dry up after the seasonal rains, and then again when the seasonal rains return, enormous herds of animals migrate in Boma National Park. It is estimated that the migration is far greater than the famous migration of the Serengeti, where nearly 2,000,000 animals search for grazing.

4 – SOUTHERN NATIONAL PARK

The park is enormous being roughly 7,800 square miles (4,992,000 acres) or 20,194 square kilometers (2,019,400 hectares). The park was created in 1939 when the area was part of Anglo-Egyptian Sudan. The River Sue creates the western boundary of the park, which eventually turns into into the Bahr el Ghazel as it passes through Wau. The River Ibba flows through the center of the park and the River Gel flows through the eastern part of the p

5 – ZERAF GAME RESERVE AND THE SUDD

The great Sudd is a swamp the size of England that has blocked exploration from Egypt into Africa for centuries. Alan Moorehead in his book “The White Nile”, wrote that for the early explorers searching for the source of the Nile – “…there is no more formidable swamp in the world”.

6 – Mount Kinyeti

Mount Kinyeti is the highest peak in South Sudan. Located in the Imatong Mountains in Ikotos county of Eastern Equatoria state, near the Ugandan border, Kinyeti has an elevation of 3,187 metres (10,456 ft) above sea level.The group of high mountains that contain Kinyeti, extending to the border with Uganda, are sometimes called the Lomariti or Lolobai mountains.

7 – DINKA VILLAGES

A five hour drive north of Juba (190 kilometers), is the town of Bor. This is central to the Dinka Tribes. This safari is cultural in nature with many photo opportunities. There is limited wildlife here, the major animal you will see here is domesticated cattle.

8 – LOTUKO VILLAGES

The Lotuko live around the town of Torit, which is about 3-4 hours drive (depending on road conditions) east of Juba (150 kilometers), on the road to Kapoeta. See the map on this web site’s home page to locate Torit. They have built villages in the surrounding hillsides for defense. Traditionally other tribes raided the Lotuko to abduct children for slaves.

9 – MUNDARI VILLAGES

The Mundari People live around the village of Terakeka on the west bank of the Nile River, about 1 hour drive north of Juba (depending on road conditions).

10 – MURLE VILLAGES

The Murle villages start to appear as you drive from Kapoeta to Boma National Park. There are many villages within Boma National Park and on the road to Pibor and in Pibor County. They are also found in southwestern Ethiopia.

11 – NUER (AND LOU-NUER) VILLAGES

Linguistic similarity and shared vocabulary between the Dinka, Lou Nuer and Shilluk indicate a shared origin. Traditionally and lingistically they appear to have migrated into the present area in the 14th century from the north. Nuer territory is the swamps of the upper Nile and villages are grouped accordingly to clans on the few areas that do not flood.

12 – TOPOSA/JIE VILLAGES

By driving 7 hours east of Juba to the town of Kapoeta (275 kilometers), the villages of the Toposa and Jie people start to appear. At Kapoeta we base out of a compound called Mango Camp that has Tukuls and a small restaurant, returning to sleep at each night. See the map on our home page to locate Kapoeta.

13 – NILE RIVER

The longest river in the world, the Nile is the dominant geographic attraction of Sudan and is a must stop if visiting Juba. The

14 – ADDITIONAL ATTRACTIONS IN JUBA

Traditional Cattle Market – The White Bull is prized and sacrificed for celebration as a symbol of peace after struggle. The White Bull is a popular beer in South Sudan and Red Bull is the most popular imported energy drink – You know of it!

Traditional Dance – Dancing is also a huge part of South Sudan and they feature a lot of local dances. South Sudanese tribes, each have a dance that reflects their life..

The John Garang Mausoleum is also a great spot to check out while visiting. Jebel Kujur hill, a mountain west of Juba town, is a beautiful attraction that is also a must see while in South Sudan. A little further up the mountain is a place called Rock City.

• Juba Hotels

Information on Spain Travel

SPAIN

Spain (España) officially the Kingdom of Spain is a sovereign state located on the Iberian Peninsula in southwestern Europe. Its mainland is bordered to the south and east by the Mediterranean Sea except for a small land boundary with Gibraltar; to the north and northeast by France, Andorra, and the Bay of Biscay; and to the west and northwest by Portugal and the Atlantic Ocean. Along with France and Morocco, it is one of only three countries to have both Atlantic and Mediterranean coastlines. Spain’s 1,214 km (754 mi) border with Portugal is the longest uninterrupted border within the European Union.

capital city-madrid

Population-46,464,053[5] (30th)

–     Density    92/km2 (106th)
240/sq mi
GDP (PPP)
2014 estimate
–     Total    $1.566 trillion[7] (16th)

–     Per capita    $33,711[7] (32nd)

Palacio Real

The Palacio Real (Royal Palace) of Madrid is the official residence of the King of Spain although it is only used for state ceremonies. The Royal Palace was built between 1738 to 1755 and King Carlos III took up residence in the palace in 1764.
Running of the Bulls
Pamplona is a city in Navarra, famous for its San Fermín festival held each year from July 6th – 14th. At the heart of the festival is El Encierro, the Running of the Bulls, an activity that involves running in front of a dozen bulls that have been let loose, on a course of the town’s streets.
La Concha
Protected from strong winds by steep cliffs and islands, La Concha in San Sebastian is said by many to be one of the best city beaches in Europe, let alone Spain. Here you can go surfing, walk along the promenade in search of good restaurants and enjoy the beautiful views of the beach.
Aqueduct of Segovia
The Aqueduct of Segovia is one of the best-preserved monuments left by the Romans in Spain. The ancient aqueduct carries water 16 km (10 miles) from the Frío River to Segovia and was built of some 24,000 massive granite blocks without the use of mortar. Probably constructed around 50 AD it still provided water to the city in the 20th century.
Cuenca
Situated between Madrid and Valencia, Cuenca is a marvelous example of a medieval city, built on the steep sides of a mountain. The many “hanging houses” are built right up to the cliff edge, making Cuenca one of the most striking towns in Spain, a gem in the province of Castilla La Mancha
Ibiza
Ibiza is one of the Balearic Islands in the Mediterranean Sea, off the coast of Spain. The island is one of the most popular party destinations in all of Europe. During summer, the island’s population doubles as tourists flock to Ibiza to enjoy the night clubs, beach bars and restaurants.
Sagrada Familia
The Sagrada Familia is a large Roman Catholic church in Barcelona, and one of Spain’s most visited tourist attractions. It’s a design by Antoni Gaudí, a Catalan architect who worked on this project for almost 40 years until his death in 1926. The construction of the basilica began in 1882 and still as yet not finished.
El Escorial
Nestled in the foothills of the Sierra de Guadarrama, El Escorial was the political center of the Spanish empire under King Philip II. Philip appointed Juan Bautista de Toledo as the architect in 1559 and together they designed El Escorial as a monument to Spain’s role as a center of the Christian world. Today it functions as a monastery, royal palace, museum, and school.
Mezquita of Cordoba
The Mezquita (Spanish for “Mosque”) of Cordoba is a fascinating building famous for the forest of pillars and arches inside the main hall. The site was originally a Roman temple, then a Visigothic church, before the Umayyad Moors built the Mezquita. After the Spanish Reconquista a cathedral was built into the center of the large Moorish building.
Alhambra

Part fortress, part palace and part garden the Alhambra is situated on a plateau overlooking the city of Granada in southern Spain. The palace was constructed in the 14th century by the Nasrid sultans. The Alhambra is now one of Spain’s major tourist attractions and many visitors come to Granada just to see the Alhambra.
ENTRY REQUIREMENTS
Passports:
A passport valid for three months beyond the length of stay and issued within the past 10 years is required by all nationals listed in the chart above except (1) EU nationals holding a passport or national ID card which is valid for the duration of stay.
If travelling from one border-free Schengen country to another however, EU nationals are not required to show a passport or national ID card. It is still recommended that you travel with your passport or ID card to prove your identity if necessary though. Note that Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, Ireland, Romania and the UK are not part of the Schengen area, so a passport or ID card is required if travelling to/from these countries.
EU nationals are not required to possess a return ticket or show sufficient funds.
Visas: 
Visas for Spain are not required by nationals of EU countries regardless of the purpose and/or length of stay; and not required by nationals of other countries referred to in the chart above for stays of up to 90 days.
HEALTH
You should be up to date on routine vaccinations while traveling to any destination. Some vaccines may also be required for travel.
Routine vaccines
Make sure you are up-to-date on routine vaccines before every trip. These vaccines include measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine, diphtheria-tetanus-pertussis vaccine, varicella (chickenpox) vaccine, polio vaccine, and your yearly flu shot.
Some travelers
Ask your doctor what vaccines and medicines you need based on where you are going, how long you are staying, what you will be doing, and if you are traveling from a country other than the US.
Hepatitis A
Hepatitis A outbreaks occur throughout the world and sometimes in countries with a low risk for hepatitis A (including the US). You can get hepatitis A through contaminated food or water in Spain, so talk to your doctor to see if the hepatitis A vaccine is right for you.
Hepatitis B
You can get hepatitis B through sexual contact, contaminated needles, and blood products, so CDC recommends this vaccine if you might have sex with a new partner, get a tattoo or piercing, or have any medical procedures.
Rabies
Rabies is present in bats in Spain. However, it is not found in dogs and is not a major risk to most travelers. CDC recommends rabies vaccine for only these groups:
•    Travelers involved in outdoor and other activities in remote areas that put them at risk for bat bites (such as adventure travel and caving).
•    People who will be working with or around bats (such as wildlife professionals and researchers).

Information on Swaziland Travel

Capital:  Lobamba

Meaning of Country’s name:  Named after the Swazi people, the dominant ethnic group in the country. The word “Swazi” derives from Mswati I, a former king of Swaziland

Largest Cities:   Mbabane, Manzini, Big Bend, Malkerns

Population:        1,419,623 (2014 est)

visa requirement

a foreign national intending to visit swaziland unless he his from visa exempted countries

History:  Bantu peoples migrated southwest to the area of Mozambique in the 16th century. A number of clans broke away from the main body in the 18th century and settled in Swaziland. In the 19th century these clans organized as a tribe, partly because they were in constant conflict with the Zulu. Their ruler, Mswazi, appealed to the British in the 1840s for help against the Zulu. The British and the Transvaal governments guaranteed the independence of Swaziland in 1881.

South Africa held Swaziland as a protectorate from 1894 to 1899, but after the Boer War, in 1902, Swaziland was transferred to British administration. The paramount chief was recognized as the native authority in 1941. In 1963, the territory was constituted a protectorate, and on Sept. 6, 1968, it became the independent nation of Swaziland.

PLACES OF INTEREST

ü  Matenga falls

ü  Swazi village

ü  The mantenga cultural village

ü  Deepest rural Swaziland (Mbuluzi)

ü  Mlilwane wildlife sanctuary

ü  Hlane royal National park

ü  Swazi candles

ü  Ngwenya glass

ü  Summer field botanical gardens

ü  Execution rock

ü  Mantenga experience

ü  Mlawula nature reserve

ü  The warthog

ü  Manzini

ü  Mkhaya game reserve

Swaziland Holiday Packages

Information on Tanzania Travel

TANZANIA
Officially the United Republic of Tanzania or in Swahili: Jamhuri ya Muungano wa Tanzania), is a country in East Africa within the African Great Lakes region. It is bordered by Kenya and Uganda to the north; Rwanda, Burundi, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo to the west; Zambia, Malawi, and Mozambique to the south; and the Indian Ocean to the east. Kilimanjaro, Africa’s highest mountain, is in northeastern Tanzania.
Tanzania’s population of 44.9 million is highly diverse, composed of numerous ethnic, linguistic, and religious groups. Tanzania is a presidential constitutional republic, and since 1996, its official capital has been Dodoma, where the President’s Office, the National Assembly, and some government ministries are located. Dar es Salaam, the former capital, retains most government offices and is the country’s largest city, principal port, and leading commercial center.[13][14][15]
European colonialism began in mainland Tanzania during the late 19th century when Germany formed German East Africa, which gave way to British rule following World War I. The mainland was governed as Tanganyika, with the Zanzibar Archipelago remaining a separate colonial jurisdiction. Following their respective independence in 1961 and 1963, the two entities merged in April 1964 to form the United Republic of Tanzania.
 VISA REQUIREMENTS

click here to see what you require for your visa to be processed
Travellers to Tanzania require a valid Visa each time they enter the Republic.
The granting of a Tanzanian Visa is, in effect, only a form of pre-entry clearance. It does not guarantee permission to enter Tanzania. The Immigration Officer reserves the right to grant or deny admission. Visa holders are subject to normal Immigration control at the port of entry. They should therefore carry with them, for possible presentation to Immigration officers, the documents submitted with their applications.
In principle, all visitors, except those with no visa requirement as listed below, must obtain a visa prior to entry to Tanzania.
Visas can be obtained at any Diplomatic or Consulate Mission of the United Republic of Tanzania abroad , normally within one business day. Visitors are urged to do so to avoid any possible inconvenience at point of entry in Tanzania.
It is possible, however, to obtain a tourist’s visa for a single entry at any one of the following four main entry points to Tanzania, subject to the fulfilment of all immigration and health requirements:
Dar es Salaam International Airport
Zanzibar International Airport
Kilimanjaro International Airport (KIA)
Namanga Entry Point (Tanzania-Kenya boarder point)
(This facility is generally for those who could not apply for a visa from a Tanzania Mission abroad) For all other entry points in Tanzania, visitors must hold valid visa prior to arrival.

Nationals of the following countries have no visa requirement 
Botswana ,Gambia ,Ghana ,Hong Kong, Kenya ,Lesotho ,Malawi, Malaysia ,Mozambique ,Namibia Swaziland Uganda ,Zambia ,Zimbabwe

Nationals of the following countries require visa 
Afghanistan ,Abkhazia ,Azerbaijan, Bangladesh ,Chad ,Djibouti, Ethiopia, Equatorial Guinea, Eritrea, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzten ,  Lebanon, Mali, Mauritania ,Morocco, Niger, Palestine Refugees and Stateless individuals, Senegal ,Somalia, Sierra Leone, Tajikistan ,Turkmenistan Uzbekistan
Passport validity
Your passport should be valid for a minimum period of 6 months from the date of your visa application.
The Tanzanian authorities have confirmed they will accept British passports extended by 12 months by British Embassies and Consulates under additional measures put in place in mid-2014.
UK Emergency Travel Documents
UK Emergency Travel Documents, with a minimum of six months’ validity, are accepted for entry, airside transit and exit from Tanzania.

Health
Yellow fever vaccination
Yellow fever vaccination is required for travellers who are arriving from, or have transited through, countries with risk of yellow fever transmission
ECONOMY
As of 2014, Tanzania’s gross domestic product (GDP) was an estimated $36.6 billion, or $86.4 billion on a purchasing power parity (PPP) basis. Tanzania is a poor country, with a per capita GDP of $1,813 (PPP) which was 32 percent below the average of $2,673 for the 45 sub-Saharan African countries and ranked 23rd among those countries
From 2009 through 2013, Tanzania’s per capita GDP (based on constant local currency) grew an average of 3.5 percent per year, higher than any other member of the East African Community (EAC) and exceeded by only nine countries in Sub-Saharan Africa: the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Ethiopia, Ghana, Lesotho, Liberia, Mozambique, Sierra Leone, Zambia, and Zimbabwe.Tanzania’s largest trading partners in 2012 for its US $5.5 billion in exports were South Africa, Switzerland, and China. Its imports totalled US $11.7 billion, with Switzerland, China, and the United Arab Emirates being the biggest partners.
Agriculture
The Tanzanian economy is heavily based on agriculture, which accounts for 24.5 percent of gross domestic product, provides 85 percent of exports, and accounts for half of the employed workforce. The agricultural sector grew 4.3 percent in 2012, less than half of the Millennium Development Goal target of 10.8 percent. 16.4 percent of the land is arable  with 2.4 percent of the land planted with permanent crops.
Maize was the largest food crop on the Tanzania mainland in 2013 (5.17 million tonnes), followed by cassava (1.94 million tonnes), sweet potatoes (1.88 million tonnes), beans (1.64 million tonnes), bananas (1.31 million tonnes), rice (1.31 million tonnes), and millet (1.04 million tonnes). Sugar was the largest cash crop on the mainland in 2013 (296,679 tonnes), followed by cotton (241,198 tonnes), cashew nuts (126,000 tonnes), tobacco (86,877 tonnes), coffee (48,000 tonnes), sisal (37,368 tonnes), and tea (32,422 tonnes). Beef was the largest meat product on the mainland in 2013 (299,581 tonnes), followed by lamb/mutton (115,652 tonnes), chicken (87,408 tonnes), and pork (50,814 tonnes).
According to the 2002 National Irrigation Master Plan, 29.4 million hectares in Tanzania are suitable for irrigation farming; however, only 310,745 hectares in June 2011 were actually being irrigated.[88]
Industry and construction
Industry and construction is a major and growing component of the Tanzanian economy, contributing 22.2 percent of GDP in 2013. This component includes mining and quarrying, manufacturing, electricity and natural gas, water supply, and construction. Mining contributed 3.3 percent of GDP in 2013. The vast majority of the country’s mineral export revenue comes from gold, accounting for 89 percent of the value of those exports in 2013. It also exports sizable quantities of gemstones, including diamonds and tanzanite. All of Tanzania’s coal production, which totalled 106,000 short tons in 2012, is used domestically. Other minerals exploited in Tanzania include pozzolana, salt, gypsum, kaolinite, silver ore, copper, phosphate, tin, graphite, and bauxite.
Tourism
Travel and tourism contributed 12.7 percent of Tanzania’s gross domestic product and employed 11.0 percent of the country’s labor force (1,189,300 jobs) in 2013. The sector is growing rapidly, with overall receipts rising from US $1.74 billion in 2004 to US $4.48 billion in 2013 and receipts from international tourists rising from US $1.255 billion in 2010 to US $1.880 billion in 2013. In 2012, 1,043,000 tourists arrived at Tanzania’s borders compared to 590,000 in 2005The vast majority of tourists visit Zanzibar or a “northern circuit” of Serengeti National Park, the Ngorongoro Conservation Area (NCA), Tarangire National Park, Lake Manyara National Park, and Mount Kilimanjaro. In 2013, the most visited national park was Serengeti (452,485 tourists), followed by Manyara (187,773) and Tarangire (165,949). According to a 2013 published report, around 600,000 persons visit the NCA annually, earning 56 billion Tanzanian shillings in 2012.
Banking
The Bank of Tanzania is the central bank of Tanzania and is primarily responsible for maintaining price stability, with a subsidiary responsibility for issuing Tanzanian shilling notes and coins. At the end of 2013, the total assets of the Tanzanian banking industry were 19.5 trillion Tanzanian shillings, a 15 percent increase over 2012.
Transport
Most transport in Tanzania is by road; road transport constitutes over 75 percent of the country’s freight traffic and 80 percent of its passenger traffic .Tanzania has two railway companies: TAZARA, which provides service between Dar es Salaam and Kapiri Mposhi (in a copper-mining district in Zambia), and Tanzania Railways Limited, which connects Dar es Salaam with central and northern Tanzania. Tanzania has four international airports, along with over 100 small airports or landing strips; airport infrastructure tends to be in poor condition. Airlines in Tanzania include Air Tanzania, Precision Air, Fastjet, Coastal Aviation, and ZanAir. Several modern hydrofoil boats provide transportation across the Indian Ocean between Dar es Salaam and Zanzibar.
Communications
The communications sector is the fastest growing sector in Tanzania, expanding 22.8 percent in 2013; however, the sector accounted for only 2.4 percent of gross domestic product that year. As of 2011, Tanzania had 56 mobile telephone subscribers per 100 inhabitants, a rate slightly above the sub-Saharan average. Very few Tanzanians have fixed-line telephones. Approximately 12 percent of Tanzanians used the internet as of 2011, though this number is rapidly growing.

• Dar Es Salaam Hotels

• Arusha Hotels

• Zanzibar Hotels

• Mwanza Hotels

• Mafia Hotels

• Lake Enyasi Hotels

• Lake Victoria Hotels

• Lake Manyara Hotels

• Tarangire Hotels

• Serengeti Hotels

Tanzania Holiday Packages

Information on Thailand Travel

Bangkok is as intoxicating as it is diverse; a melting pot of glamorous aromas, interesting sights and visual delights. It’s a city with infinite layers which you need to explore to reveal its hidden mysteries. If you’re planning a trip to Bangkok – or Krung Thep as it’s called in Thai – make sure to allow enough time to see some of the treasures that has given this city iconic status. At least three to five days. In this section we feature some of the highlights and traditional must-see attractions.

VISA REQUIREMENTS

visa

Find the best Bangkok attractions by area or pick the topics that interest you, whatever it is you are looking for we have covered just about all of the attractions in Bangkok so you can be sure you won’t miss a thing.

Benjakiti Park

This is a park that is opened Opening Hours: 06:00-21:00 daily. You can rent out bikes for around 50 baht per hour. There’s also cute swan peddle boats for rent – great for the kids or a romantic date as the sun sets over the water. Other city-distractions include some playgrounds, skate ramps, a central pavilion with fountains, and an impressive half-circle courtyard that makes an ideal spot for picnics and people watching.

5 Islands near Bangkok

These 5 islands near Bangkok are all within a few hours’ drive (and quick boat trip) from the Thai capital, offering a convenient tropical escape for when you just want to get away from it all, but still want to be within touching distance of the big city.

Whilst Thailand is famous for its white sandy beaches and tropical paradises, most of the more famous islands are found way down south, and the only way to get the is by flying or spending a full day on the road. However, with our handpicked selection of the best islands near Bangkok, you’re never too far away from that picture-postcard beach. These islands include:-

1) Koh Larn (140km, 3 hours)

Many visitors to Bangkok find themselves making a line for Pattaya in search of sun, sea and sand but are left dissatisfied by the lack of pristine white sands in the main town centre. The best solution, if you want a taste of tropical paradise, is to jump on a boat to nearby Koh Larn. Often referred to as Coral Island, this is probably the best island near Bangkok in terms of offering soft white-sanded beaches and amenities, such as restaurants and watersports. Koh Larn is quick and easy to reach, and you could even make it a daytrip from Bangkok if you get up early enough. Seafood restaurants hug the picturesque coastline on the eastern side, and you can always grab a songtheaw taxi to the quieter (and prettier) western coast for a rest bite from the crowds on the weekend.

2) Koh Si Chang (110km, 2.5 hours)

As the nearest island to Bangkok, Koh Si Chang – or Sichang – gets its fair share of local and foreign visitors, many who make the day trip or weekend outing from Bangkok or nearby Pattaya. Beach fanatics might not be overwhelmed by the quality of the sand on Koh Si Chang, but what it lacks in sandy beaches, it certainly makes up for with its quaint fishing-village vibe, as well as plenty of small temple visits, secluded jungle pathways, a lively port area and snorkelling opportunities. Eating options here are cheap and delicious, with the choice dish, of course, being barbequed fish or squid.

3) Koh Samed (220km, 4.5 hours)

Famous among Thais for being THE place for teenagers and students to party on the weekends, Koh Samed – or ‘Samet’ – is by far the most fun-filled island near Bangkok. However, it does take a little more time and effort getting there, meaning it’s probably doesn’t fall into the daytrip category. Aside from young, single Thais in the mood to party, the island boasts plenty of white-sanded beaches – nowhere near as spectacular as the islands in Southern Thailand, but then again you’re only a few hours away from Bangkok. Koh Samed is also statistically the driest island in the whole country, enjoying its own mini-weather-climate that escapes prolonged periods of rain even during wet season. Expect the hotels, bars and clubs to fill up on weekends.

4) Koh Kret (10km, 45 mins)

The small islet of Koh Kret isn’t your typical Thai island. Measuring 2 km by 1 km, this small patch of land sits in Chao Phraya River and is famous for the Mon Tribes who have habited this island since it was created in the 18th century during the construction of a canal.

You won’t find pristine beaches and turquoise water gently lapping at the shore here; however, it is still does present a worthwhile daytrip to escape the capital. Just a few kilometres outside the city centre, the landlocked Koh Kret offers a glimpse of what Bangkok used to look like, with an abundance of greenery, makeshift pathways and precarious wooden housing.

5) Koh Khram Yai (170km, 3.5 hours)

Although only a few kilometres off the Pattaya coastline, arriving on the almost-deserted Koh Khram Yai feels like being washed up from a shipwreck. No hotels, no restaurants and no bars; this really is about as secluded as it gets. The geography of the place has prevented any development, as most of the island covered in sharp rocks and cliffs. The intrepid travellers that do make it to this little-known spot can enjoy the small, clean and picturesque beaches all to themselves. Do bring your own food and drink and note that access is prohibited during certain times due to an ongoing turtle breeding program.

Most Popular Attractions in Bangkok

The Grand Palace

If there is one must-see sight that no visit to Bangkok would be complete without, it’s the dazzling, spectacular Grand Palace, undoubtedly the city’s most famous landmark. Built in 1782 – and for 150 years the home of the Thai King, the Royal court and the administrative seat of government – the Grand Palace of Bangkok is a grand old dame indeed, that continues to have visitors in awe with its beautiful architecture and intricate detail, all of which is a proud salute to the creativity and craftsmanship of Thai people. Within its walls were also the Thai war ministry, state departments, and even the mint. Today, the complex remains the spiritual heart of the Thai Kingdom.

Jim Thompson House

The lovely garden-enclosed compound sitting on the bank of the Saen Saeb Canal would have gone completely unnoticed, had it not been for a legacy left behind by a middle-aged American man named Jim Thompson. His elegant residential enclave, comprising six traditional Thai teakwood houses transported from Ayutthaya and Bangkok’s Ban Krua community, echoes Jim Thompson’s 30-year love affair with Southeast Asian art and cultural heritage.

An architect by training and an avid collector of Asian objets d’art, Jim Thompson’s keen eyes and flair for design breathed life into everything he touched. After his discharge from military service in 1946, Jim Thompson decided to settle down in Thailand, where he dedicated over 30 years to reviving Thai silk – then a dying cottage industry – and introduced it to the world’s most respectable fashion houses and catwalks in Paris, New York, London and Milan.

The same goes for his Thai house, which was no ordinary teakwood villa complex filled with incongruous collections of antiques, but a breathing museum – even then – that embodies Jim Thompson’s life-long passion and whimsical design choices. One day in 1967, while at the height of his success, he mysteriously disappeared into the Malaysian jungle, and thus began the legacy of Jim Thompson…

Wat Phra Kaew

Wat Phra Kaew or the Temple of the Emerald Buddha (officially known as Wat Phra Sri Rattana Satsadaram) is regarded as the most important Buddhist temple in Thailand. Located in the historic centre of Bangkok, within the grounds of the Grand Palace, it enshrines Phra Kaew Morakot (the Emerald Buddha), the highly revered Buddha image meticulously carved from a single block of jade.

The Emerald Buddha (Phra Putta Maha Mani Ratana Patimakorn) is a Buddha image in the meditating position in the style of the Lanna school of the north, dating from the 15th century AD.

Thailand Holiday Packages

Information on Tunisia Travel

TUNISIA

MUST VISIT IN TUNISIA

Sousse, Ribats & Beaches

The central section of Tunisia’s Mediterranean coast has some of the country’s finest beaches making it an attractive place to relax at the end of a tour. The area is also noted for its impressive chain of coastal fortresses (‘Ribats’) and historic old medinas.

Sousse (ancient Hadrumetum) Originally a Phoenician settlement is a popular resort town with wonderful white sandy beaches. The town’s impressive walled medina, Grand Mosque, and fortified Ribat date from the 9th century Aghlabid period and are best explored on foot. Sousse’s important museum is housed in the Kasbah and contains some of the finest examples of mosaics in Tunisia. Sousse’s extensive medieval souqs offer excellent shopping opportunities.

Monastir is located on a beautiful stretch of coast that is justly popular for beach holidays. In 46 BC the town was Julius Caesar’s headquarters in the war against Pompey. However, Monastir is now more popularly associated with Habib Bourguiba – the first President of the Tunisian Republic – who was born and buried here. Bourguiba’s impressive mausoleum with its 18 carat central golden dome dominates the city centre. Nearby, is the attractive and imposing fortified Ribat and the walled medina.

Mahdia is a scenic whitewashed town located on a narrow peninsula which juts out into the Mediterranean Sea. The town is named after Obaid Allah, the founder of the Fatimid dynasty known as the ‘Mahdi’, who moved his capital to Madhia in 916 to secure a strong point which it could be defended against his enemies. A walk through the historic town centre with its cafes and small shops usually begins at the heavily fortified Skifa el Kahla gate and continues past the 10th century Great Mosque to the imposing Ottoman period castle known as the Borj el Kebir.

Oases, Trains & The Sahara

The landscape of south of Tunisia is characterized by arid mountains, rippling Saharan sand seas, and great expanses of brilliant white salt pans (chotts). Where water bubbles to the surface brilliant green oases of date palms form and are almost mirage-like in their fascination amidst the desolation.

Tozeur is positioned on the edge of the Sahara and is the largest oasis in Tunisia containing over 200,000 date palms – many of them of the highly prised Delgat Nour variety. Under Arab rule Tozeur became rich on the trans-Saharan caravan trade. The old quarter of town known as the Ouled Hadef reflects that wealth; its buildings constructed using yellowish bricks arranged in geometrical patterns and are full of history.

The Mountain Oases of Chebika, Mides and Tamerza offer some of the most dramatic scenery in southern Tunisia with date palms surviving in rocky clefts, and small streams and waterfalls creating an Eden-like paradise amongst the arid mountains. The villages were abandoned in the 1960s and have crumbled into atmospheric ruins. Several good hikes can be enjoyed in the area.

Lézard Rouge is a tourist train running from Metlaoui through a series of dramatic gorges to Seldja and back. The carriages were built in the 19th century and were originally owned by the Bey of Tunis. The Bey’s private carriage offers travel in some style but the rest of the train is rather ordinary. Seats are allocated on a first come first served basis.

Ksar Ghilane gives the visitor the best opportunity to experience the Sahara in Tunisia. This small and attractive oasis is located right on the edge of the great sand sea and is a world away from the crowds of Douz. A sunset camel ride over the dunes of the Grand Erg Oriental to the nearby Roman fort combined with spending a night under canvas (in an air-conditioned tent!) offer a quintessential Saharan experience.

Tunis & The Bardo

Tunis is one of the great historic cities of North Africa and offers visitors an exciting mix of winding medieval souqs; attractive tree-lined boulevards, fine dining, and the magnificent mosaics of the world class Bardo Museum.

Tunis is an attractive capital city and has two distinctive parts: the French colonial part and the medina. The old walled town (medina) of Tunis is one of the finest in North Africa and is a joy to discover on foot. Its busy thronging souqs immerse the visitor in medieval Tunisia, all manner of goods ranging from gold, leather, carpets, perfumes, and household goods are on offer amidst an intoxicating oriental atmosphere. Fine Arab architecture sets the stage with notable monuments including the great Zitouna Mosque with its distinctive square minaret and fine re-used byzantine columns; the lavishly sculpted 18th century Torbet el Bey – mausoluem of the Hussenite rulers of Tunisia; the Dar Hussein Museum of Islamic Art which occupies a grand palace; and the many attractive madrassas and hammams. Outside the walls is the new town of Tunis, laid out by the French in the 19th century, with attractive tree-line boulevards, and fine colonial buildings.

Tunis’ Bardo Museum is one of the great highlights of Tunisia offering a world class collection of brilliantly executed Roman mosaics collected from sites across the country; wonderful sculptures in bronze and marble dating from the 2nd and 3rd centuries AD; a paleo-Christian section; and Islamic collection. It is generally accepted that the Bardo Museum is the finest in North Africa.

Dougga and Roman Numidia

Located in north eastern Tunisia along the fertile Mejerda river valley, the ruins of the great cities of ancient Numidia are some of the finest survivals from the Roman world.

Dougga (ancient Thugga) is arguably the most impressive Roman site in Tunisia and has a beautiful rugged rural location. It was the seat of a Numidian principality until annexed by Rome following the battle of Thapsus in AD 46. The site is extensive and notable buildings include the theatre which dates to 168 AD and once seated an audience of 3500; the very well preserved Capitoline Temple built during the reigns of emperors Marcus Aurelius and Lucius Verus; the extensive honey-coloured temple dedicated to Juno Caelistis; and the astonishing needle-like Mausoleum of Ateban which rises to a height of 18 metres and is crowned by a small pyramid with a figure of a lion on top of it.

Bulla Regia was the capital of the 2nd century BC Numidian king Micipsa. In Roman times the cultivation of olives brought great wealth to the inhabitants, but also corruption. St. Augustine passing through Bulla Regia in 339 AD, complained of the moral turpitude of the population and the lurid performances in the theatre! The site is noted for the massive 2nd century public baths built by Julia Memnia and for its excellently preserved underground villas, built by the Romans to escape the summer heat. The villas contain some stunning mosaics.

Chemtou is the site of one of the most famous quarries in Africa which produced a highly prised yellow flecked marble. Chemtou’s interesting local museum documents the history of the once notorious quarry where slaves and felons were condemned to work in incredibly harsh conditions.

Hammamet & Cape Bon

Hammamet and the coast to the south offer some of the best beaches in Tunisia; while the Cape Bon peninsular, a finger of land reaching up towards Sicily, is noted for its attractive countryside, the UNESCO World Heritage archaeological site of Kerkouane, and as a centre of pottery production.

Hammamet is noted for its fine sandy beaches and beautiful historic medina. Despite being inundated with tourists the small medina has retained its charm and offers visitors a combination of narrow lanes, pretty whitewashed houses, a fortified kasbah, small cafes, and waterfront restaurants. Hammamet’s popularity started in the early 20th century and it was soon drawing writers and artists such as Frank Lloyd Wright, Paul Klee and Andre Gide. Paul Klee wrote in his diary in 1914: ‘the city is magnificent, right by the sea, full of bends and sharp corners. Now and then I get to look at the ramparts!’. The more exclusive hotels are located a few miles from the medina at Hammamet Yasmine.

Kerkouane is of supreme importance to archaeologists and has been given UNESCO World Heritage status on account of it being the most complete survival of a Punic (Carthaginian) settlement. The city was protected by a double wall and once covered over 50 hectares, but was abandoned for an unknown reason prior to the Roman conquest of Carthage thus ensuring the survival of its remains. Kerkouane was once an important centre of Murex dye production, a malodorous industry which may explain the unusual feature of a hip-bath in almost every house. Today’s visitor can see the foundation walls of the settlement’s houses which have been restored to knee height and are attractively located next to the sea.

Kairouan

Kairouan is revered as the fourth most important holy city in the Muslim world behind only Mecca, Medina and Jerusalem. The city is Tunisia’s spiritual centre and has been designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Kairouan’s foundation dates back to 670 AD when the Arab general Okba Ibn Nafi halted here, and as a result of divine revelation, designated the site as a holy place. As capital of the Aghlabid empire in the 9th century Kairouan became one of the world’s great cities. During this period only the town’s reputation for scholarship outshone its glorious buildings. Preeminent amongst the city’s monuments is the Great Mosque of Okba, one of the largest and oldest mosques in the country. Its exterior is dominated by fortress like walls and a towering square minaret, while the interior features an enormous central courtyard graced by 611 beautiful re-used Byzantine and Roman columns. A walking tour is the best way to appreciate Kairouan’s attractive medina and souqs and to see the city’s craftsmen at work. At the Bir Batouta a decorated camel draws water from a well which some say is that found by Okba Ibn Nafi in 670 and is connected with the well of Zam Zam in Mecca. Nearby, the Mosque of the Three Doors is noted for its elaborate external decoration. Located outside the city’s 8th century walls are the large reservoir-like Aghlabid pools which were intended to reduce Kairouan’s summer heat, and the lively Mosque of the Barber (also known as the Zaouia of Sidi Sahab). This ‘Barber’ a companion of the Prophet who distinguished himself by always carrying three hairs of the Prophet’s beard on his person.

Roman Central Tunisia

Some of Tunisia’s finest Roman ruins are to be found in the central part of the country. Access is either from Kairouan or Sousse or when travelling from / to Tunis into central Tunisia.

El Djem (ancient Thysdrus) means ‘the place where the lions hide’ in Arabic, a distant memory of the ‘games’ once held in the city’s amphitheatre. It is a magnificent structure in a better state of preservation that the Coliseum in Rome. El Djem’s amphitheatre once held 30,000 spectators and has huge outer walls rising to a height of three stories. Below ground the visitor can walk through the tunnels and dungeons that once held wild animals, gladiators and criminals prior to them being delivered into the arena. El Djem’s museum houses a collection of mosaics that is second only to that of the Bardo.

Sbeitla (ancient Sufetula) was founded in the 2nd century AD and is located in the Tunisian pre-desert. The city’s substantial remains are built from a beautiful honey-coloured stone and include one of the most instantly recognisable views in the country: that of three well preserved Capitoline temples facing a Triumphal Arch of Marcus Aurelius.

Thuburbo Majus is situated amongst a beautiful rural landscape and probably originated as a Berber settlement. The town flourished as a market centre and provides a good example of a typical African provincial city. Thuburbo Majus’ principal monuments date from the 2nd century AD when it was given the privileged title of Colony by the emperor Commodus.

Maktar (ancient Mactaris) was founded by a Numidian king in the 2nd century BC in a spectacular mountain top location. The impressive ruins include a fine rectangular Forum on the south side of which is located the very well preserved Arch of Trajan; the attractive ruined Schola; and a Libyco-Punic Mausoleum in the form of a obelisk.

Matmata and Tataouine

The troglodytic houses of Matmata, together with the curious honeycomb-like granaries known as ghorfas, and the fortified settlements called ksour that proliferate in and around Tataouine, are so different to most known architectural styles that they look almost ‘alien’. This is perhaps why film director George Lucas was so taken with the area that he featured it in his Star Wars films as Luke Skywalker’s home planet.

Matmata: The curious Berber troglodytic houses of Matmata, or haouch hafera, were developed to combat the extremes of the southern Tunisian climate. The houses typically are sunk vertically into the ground to a depth of 7 or 8 metres and have courtyards opening onto the sky. Each home has a single sloping entrance which leads through a tunnel to a plastered courtyard which usually features two rooms cut into the rock. The origins of these houses is ancient and goes back to at least the 4th century BC.

Tataouine is a former base for the French Foreign Legion and makes an excellent centre from which to explore the dramatic gorfas and ksour built by the Berbers to defend themselves against the Arab invasion. The fortified village of Chenini has one of the most beautiful situations in Tunisia and is built on a cliff face with a very old and picturesque whitewashed mosque at its centre, while nearby Douiret has so many terraces of cave dwellings that the village has been compared to an ant-heap. To the north Medenine has some fine examples of the honeycomb-like ghorfas which have been fitted together into a defensive settlement, but arguably the finest examples of this style of architecture are to be found at Ksar Hededa – a site that was used by George Lucas in The Phantom Menace – and at the spectacular Ksar Ouled Soltane where the gorfas rise 5 tiers high.

Djerba Island

Djerba is justly famous for its wonderful beaches and is a perfect for relaxing by the sea at the end of your holiday with a little sightseeing. The island has an ancient past and was a onetime base for the infamous Corsairs Barbarossa and Dragut. Academics have also cited Djerba as being one of the possible locations of the mythical ‘Land of the Lotus Eaters’ of Homer’s Odyssey. What is perhaps less well known and more curious is that the island is home to one of the oldest of the world’s Jewish diasporas. A Jewish presence is thought to have existed on Djerba since the days of Nebuchadnezzar and the exile from Babylon in 587 BC. Testament to this is the Ghriba synagogue which was rebuilt in the 1920s but stands on the ancient site where tradition claims a Holy Stone fell miraculously from the sky. Nearby, at Guellala, the town’s streets are piled high with colourful decorated ceramics all for sale. Throughout the island there are fields of olive trees and swaying date palms, as well as pretty whitewashed villages and mosques with their characteristic truncated minarets. Djerba’s capital Houmt Souk is an attractive sleepy market town noted for its silversmiths, daily fish auctions, and medieval Spanish castle. At further attraction of the island is Djerba Explore, a well presented modern complex combining the stunning Lallia Hadria Museum of Islamic Art with a Crocodile park and examples of traditional Djerban architecture.

Tourist attractions

1 Carthage

The remnants of ancient Carthage – fabled wealthy seafaring city of the Phoenicians – lie scattered across the Bay of Tunis. The evocative tumbled columns and piles of marble rubble are bordered by a panorama of the Mediterranean Sea, which was so fundamental to the city’s prosperity. Completely destroyed in the third Punic War in 146 BC, the surviving ruins pale in comparison to some of North Africa’s other ancient sites, but this doesn’t mean you shouldn’t visit. With their seafront setting the ruins have an unbeatable, lost-in-time air.

2 Bardo National Museum

The world’s most renowned mosaic collection resides in this opulent palace in Tunis. Along with Cairo’s Egyptian Museum, The Bardo is one of North Africa’s two top museum experiences. Inside, room after room exhibits gloriously intricate and still vibrantly fresh examples of mosaic art that have been unearthed from sites across the entirety of Tunisia. The Sousse Room,Odysseus Room and Dougga Room have particularly impressive exhibits of this art form, but the entire collection is a treasury and is well worth an entire afternoon of browsing. The ground floor of the building holds some interesting non-mosaic exhibits with displays of the neo-Punic, Christian, and Islamic eras.

3 Sidi Bou Said

The elegant Andalusian-style seaside neighborhood of Sidi Bou Said owes its fame to three young painters. While living here in 1914, Paul Klee, August Macke and Louis Moilliet captured the beauty of its whitewashed buildings and blue doors on canvas. Sidi Bou Said has been something of a bohemian artist’s quarter ever since, and is a favoured weekend hangout spot for Tunis locals. There are no tourist attractions as such (that’s part of its charm), but you can’t fail to be beguiled by the perfect white-and-blue streets, cliff side cafés and picture-postcard shoreline.

4 Medina District

Chock-a-block full of crumbling buildings found by weaving your way through a demonstration of ever-skinnier alleyways, the Medina (Old Town) district is Tunis’ historic heart and is brimming with sightseeing potential. The main entrance gate, marking the end of the new city and beginning of the old is known as Bab el Bahr (Sea Gate). Built in 1848, it was known as Porte de France during the colonial period.

5 Olive Tree Mosque (Djemma ez Zaitouna)

6 St Vincent de Paul Cathedral

7 New Town (Ville Nouvelle)

8 La Goulette (Tunis Port)

La Goulette is the port suburb of the capital and has been a place of strategic importance (controlling the harbour entrance) since time immemorial. In the reign of the Emperor Charles V, it was the most important Spanish possession in the eastern Maghreb. From 1574 onwards, the Ottoman rulers enlarged and strengthened the fortress built by Spain. La Goulette became a port only during the French colonial period, when the Lake of Tunis silted up and could no longer take ships of any size.

Tunisia Holiday Packages

Information on Turkey Travel

Turkey

Country

Turkey is a nation straddling Eastern Europe and western Asia with cultural connections to ancient Greek, Persian, Roman, Byzantine and Ottoman empires. Cosmopolitan Istanbul, on the Bosphorus Strait, is home to the iconic Hagia Sophia, with its soaring dome and Christian mosaics, the enormous 17th-century Blue Mosque and the circa-1460 Topkapı Palace, former home of sultans. Ankara is Turkey’s modern capital.

Capital: Ankara

Currency: Turkish lira

Official language: Turkish

Turkey Destinations

Istanbul

Shopping, Mehmed II, palace, nightlife, fashion

Antalya

Caravanserai, beaches, waterfalls, Hadrian, golf

Ephesus

Ruins, ancient history, theater, christianity, roman empire

Kuşadası

Beaches, water parks, caravanserai, nightlife

İzmir

Culture, fashion, history, painting, shopping

Marmaris

Beaches, caravanserai, marinas, nightlife, water parks

Bodrum

Beaches, marinas, nightlife, sailing

Alanya

Beaches, water parks, caves, castles

Ankara

Sports, culture, painting, shopping, mausoleum

visa requirements

visa

Turkey Holiday Packages

Information on Uganda Travel

UGANDA GUIDE FACTS

UGANDA MAP

Population:

26,907,000 which differ

Capital:

Kampala; 1,246,000

Area:

241,139 square kilometers (93,104 square miles)

Language:

English, Ganda or Luganda, many local languages

Religion:

Roman Catholic, Protestant, indigenous beliefs, Muslim

Currency:

Ugandan shilling

Life Expectancy:

44

GDP per Capita:

U.S. $1,200

Literacy Percent:

70

Ugandan National Flag

 Visa information

Uganda embassy

Uganda, a landlocked country in East Africa, consists of savanna plateau with mountains and lakes. “The pearl of Africa,” wrote Winston Churchill of this former British protectorate that embraces Lake Victoria, source of the White Nile, and the misty Ruwenzori Mountains—a home of the endangered mountain gorilla.

Prosperous at independence in 1962, the country was brutalized under the chaotic regimes of Milton Obote and Idi Amin, when as many as 800,000 Ugandans were murdered. In 1986 Yoweri Museveni, leader of the National Resistance Army, came to power and, despite continued military and economic challenges, restored stability to a large extent. Museveni was elected president in May 1996 in the first popular election for president since independence—and reelected in 2001.

In 1998 Uganda sent troops into the Democratic Republic of the Congo’s civil war. It withdrew the last of its forces in 2003—and thousands of Congolese crossed into Uganda to seek asylum. An insurgent militia, known as the Lord’s Resistance Army, continues to terrorize northern Uganda—abducting some 20,000 children over the years and making them soldiers. Fertile soil keeps farms and coffee plantations flourishing, but AIDS—epidemic in some areas—may now be Uganda’s greatest enemy.

ECONOMY

•             Industry: Sugar, brewing, tobacco, cotton textiles, cement

•             Agriculture: Coffee, tea, cotton, tobacco; beef

•             Exports: Coffee, fish and fish products, tea, gold, cotton

Uganda’s Main Attractions:

Winston Churchill referred to Uganda as the “Pearl of Africa” for its “magnificence, for variety of form and color, for profusion of brilliant life”. While Uganda’s political turmoil during the 1970’s and 1980’s caused it to lag behind neighboring Kenya and Tanzania as prime tourist destinations, this lovely country is staging a comeback with its excellent attractions, here’s a sampling:

•             Gorilla Safaris are a huge draw for tourists visiting Uganda. You can see rare mountain gorillas in two of Uganda’s National Parks; Bwindi and Mgahinga,

• Uganda’s National Parks offer excellent safaris and fantastic birding opportunities. Two of the best parks include Queen Elizabeth National Park and Murchison Falls National   Park.

• Ruwenzori Mountains, one of Africa’s finest trekking destinations, the “Mountains of the Moon” offer snow-capped peaks and fantastic trails.

• Kampala, Uganda’s capital is a pleasant place to base your visit from, with good nightlife and friendly restaurants and bars.

Travel to Uganda:

Uganda’s International Airport: Entebbe International Airport (Airport code EBB) is located just outside the town of Entebbe on Lake Victoria and 21 miles (35 km) from Kampala , Uganda’s capital.

Getting to Uganda:  There are direct flights from Europe and regional flights from Kenya and Tanzania. You can also catch along-distance bus from Kenya and Rwanda.

Uganda Embassies/Visas: Most nationalities do require a tourist visa before entering the country, but many nationalities can obtain the visa upon arrival at the International Airport. Check with the Embassy of Uganda .

Tourist Information Office: 13/15 Kimathi Avenue, Impala House, PO Box 7211, Kampala, Uganda, E-mail: utb@visituganda.com, Web Site: http://visituganda.com/index.php.

• Entebbe Hotels

• Kampala Hotels

• Jinja Hotels

• Mbarara Hotels

Uganda Holiday Packages

Information on United Arab Emirates Travel

Capital    Abu Dhabi

Largest city    Dubai

Official languages    Arabic

Religion    Islam

Government    Federation of 7 hereditary monarchies

Legislature    Federal National Council

The United Arab Emirates often referred to as the U.A.E, is a federation of seven emirates on the eastern side of the Arabian peninsula, at the entrance to the Persian Gulf. It has coastlines on the Gulf of Oman and the Persian Gulf, with Saudi Arabia to the west and southwest, and Oman to the southeast and also on the eastern tip of the Musandam Peninsula as well as an Omani enclave within its borders. It is a country rich in history and culture and an easy starting point for travels in the Middle East.

ENTRY REQUIREMENTS

VISA

Visitors to the United Arab Emirates must obtain a visa prior to travel unless they come from one of the visa exempt countries or one of the countries whose citizens are eligible for visa on arrival.
Citizens of member nations of the Gulf Cooperation Council and the Schengen Area may travel to the United Arab Emirates without visa limits. Nationals of 12 other countries are granted free visa on arrival to the UAE for a period of 30 days.[1][2] All visitors must hold a passport valid for 6 months.

United Arab Emirates Holiday Packages

Information on United Kingdom Travel

UNITED KINGDOM

united kingdom complises of three states-england,wales and scotland

UNITED KINGDOM VISA AND ENTRY REQUIREMENTS
United Kingdom – Visas & Permits
The UK has very tough immigration laws, which are enforced. Before travelling, make sure you have all the required visas and documentation or you will be refused entry. This section is intended to give you an overview of what documentation you may need.
Who needs a UK visa?
If you are not a British citizen you might need entry clearance (that is permission) to enter the UK. The Home Office has three categories based on entry requirements:
European Economic Area Citizens: Do not need entry clearance to enter the UK. The European Economic Area (EEA) includes all EU countries plus Norway, Liechtenstein and Iceland. Swiss nationals also fall under this category.
Non-Visa Nationals: Only require an entry certificate when going to the UK to work or to settle. This category primarily consists of Commonwealth citizens.
Visa Nationals: Need a visa to enter the UK for any reason.
You will also need a visa if you:
are stateless (you do not have a nationality)
hold a non-national travel document (a travel document which does not give you the nationality or citizenship of the country that issued it)
hold a passport issued by an authority unrecognized in the UK.
Nationals of the following 10 countries now need a visa when staying in the UK longer than six months: Australia, Canada, Hong Kong SAR, Japan, Malaysia, New Zealand, Singapore, South Africa, South Korea and the USA.
You can find out what type of entry clearance you need based on your nationality, purpose of the visit and country location, by going to the Foreign Office page, click here.
Visas are issued for a maximum stay of six months. If you require a visa and wish to remain in the UK longer than six months, you must leave the country and apply for a new visa. If you wish to leave and return to the UK within the duration of your visa, it will save you a lot of trouble if you apply for a multiple-entry visa. If you only have a single-entry visa you will have to apply for a new visa each time you leave the country.
Where to apply for a United Kingdom visa?
Visas and other forms of entry clearance (such as an entry certificate) for England, Wales, Scotland or Northern Ireland need to be obtained prior to your arrival in Great Britain. If you require a visa there is no way to make an application on arrival and the likelihood is that you will be refused entry to the United Kingdom.
Applications for entry into the UK should be made at any British Diplomatic Post in your country of residence (to find the address and phone number of the one nearest to you click here).
How to apply for a UK visa?
You will always need at least the following documents:
A visa application form (you can obtain it for free at your nearest British mission overseas or you can download it from www.ukvisas.gov.uk)
A valid passport or travel document
Two (sometimes three) recent passport-sized (45mm x 35mm), colour photographs
The visa fee (which will be paid for in local currency)
The supporting documents required for the visa category you are applying for.
Supporting documents may include:
work permit
letter of acceptance from a university
Evidence of your qualifications: i.e. diplomas, certificates, references
Evidence that you will be able to support yourself and your dependants during your stay in the UK, i.e. bank statements, a letter from your bank
Although straightforward visa applications can be processed within 24 hours, this is not always the case. It is recommended that you allow ample time for you application to be processed, if you are concerned about arriving in the UK for a specific date.
If you are denied a visa you will be notified in writing of the refusal and the reasons for it. In certain cases you will have the right to appeal the decision and as such will be given advice on how to do so. Instead of appealing you can simply apply again, but if the reasons for the initial refusal still apply, your application will probably be turned down again.

Information on United States of America Travel

USA IS A COUNTRY IN NORTH AMERICA

USA ENTRY REQUIREMENTS
Visitor Visa 
Overview
Generally, a citizen of a foreign country who wishes to enter the United States must first obtain a visa, either a nonimmigrant visa for temporary stay, or an immigrant visa for permanent residence. Visitor visas are nonimmigrant visas for persons who want to enter the United States temporarily for business (visa category B-1), tourism, pleasure or visiting (visa category B-2), or a combination of both purposes (B-1/B-2).
Here are some examples of activities permitted with a visitor visa:
Expand All
Business (B-1):
Tourism and Visit (B-2):
Travel Purposes Not Permitted On Visitor Visas:
How to Apply
There are several steps to apply for a visa. The order of these steps and how you complete them may vary at the U.S. Embassy or Consulate where you apply. Please consult the instructions available on the U.S. Embassy or Consulate website where you will apply.
Complete the Online Visa Application
Online Nonimmigrant Visa Application, Form DS-160 – Learn more about completing the DS-160. You must: 1) complete the online visa application and 2) print the application form confirmation page to bring to your interview.
Photo – You will upload your photo while completing the online Form DS-160. Your photo must be in the format explained in the Photograph Requirements.
Schedule an Interview
While interviews are generally not required for applicants of certain ages outlined below, consular officers have the discretion to require an interview of any applicant, regardless of age.
If you are age:    Then an interview is:
13 and younger    Generally not required
14-79    Required (some exceptions for renewals)
80 and older    Generally not required
You must schedule an appointment for your visa interview, generally, at the U.S. Embassy or Consulate in the country where you live. You may schedule your interview at any U.S. Embassy or Consulate, but be aware that it may be difficult to qualify for a visa outside of your place of permanent residence.
Wait times for interview appointments vary by location, season, and visa category, so you should apply for your visa early. Review the interview wait time for the location where you will apply:
Appointment Wait Time
Select a U.S. Embassy or Consulate: Where will you apply?
Prepare for Your Interview
Fees – Pay the non-refundable visa application fee, if you are required to pay it before your interview. When your visa is approved, you may also pay a visa issuance fee, if applicable to your nationality. Fee information is provided below:
Application Fee
$160
All Fees
Select your nationality to see Issuance Fee
Review the instructions available on the website of the embassy or consulate where you will apply to learn more about fee payment.
Gather Required Documentation
Gather and prepare the following required documents before your visa interview:
Passport valid for travel to the United States – Your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond your period of stay in the United States, unless exempt by country-specific agreements (PDF – 57 KB). If more than one person is included in your passport, each person who needs a visa must submit a separate application.
Nonimmigrant Visa Application, Form DS-160 confirmation page
Application fee payment receipt, if you are required to pay before your interview.
Photo – You will upload your photo while completing the online Form DS-160. If the photo upload fails, you must bring one printed photo in the format explained in the Photograph Requirements.
Additional Documentation May Be Required
Review the instructions for how to apply for a visa on the website of the embassy or consulate where you will apply. Additional documents may be requested to establish if you are qualified. For example, additional requested documents may include evidence of:
The purpose of your trip;
Your intent to depart the United States after your trip; and/or
Your ability to pay all costs of the trip.
Evidence of your employment and/or your family ties may be sufficient to show the purpose of your trip and your intent to return to your home country. If you cannot cover all the costs for your trip, you may show evidence that another person will cover some or all costs for your trip.
Note: Visa applicants must qualify on the basis of the applicant’s residence and ties abroad, rather than assurances from U.S. family and friends. A letter of invitation or Affidavit of Support is not needed to apply for a nonimmigrant tourist visa. If you do choose to bring a letter of invitation or Affidavit of Support to your interview, please remember that it is not one of the factors that we use in determining whether to issue or deny a nonimmigrant tourist visa.
Attend Your Visa Interview
During your visa interview, a consular officer will determine whether you are qualified to receive a visa, and if so, which visa category is appropriate based on your purpose of travel. You will need to establish that you meet the requirements under U.S. law to receive the category of visa for which you are applying.
Ink-free, digital fingerprint scans will be taken as part of your application process. They are usually taken during your interview, but this varies based on location.
After your visa interview, your application may require further administrative processing. You will be informed by the consular officer if further processing is necessary for your application.
When the visa is approved, you may pay a visa issuance fee if applicable to your nationality, and will be informed how your passport with visa will be returned to you. Review the visa processing time, to learn how soon your passport with visa will generally be ready for pick-up or delivery by the courier.
Additional Information
Visitors are not permitted to accept employment or work in the United States.
We cannot guarantee that you will be issued a visa. Do not make final travel plans or buy tickets until you have a visa.
Unless canceled or revoked, a visa is valid until its expiration date.  Therefore, a valid U.S. visa in an expired passport is still valid. If you have a valid visa in your expired passport, do not remove it from your expired passport. You may use your valid visa in your expired passport along with a new valid passport for travel and admission to the United States.

Information on Zambia Travel
ZAMBIA

The Republic of Zambia is a landlocked country in Southern Africa, neighbouring the Democratic Republic of the Congo to the north, Tanzania to the north-east, Malawi to the east, Mozambique, Zimbabwe,

Capital: Lusaka

President: Edgar Lungu

Currency: Zambian kwacha

Population: 14.54 million (2013)

Official language: English

Entry requirements
Visas
British passport holders need a visa to enter Zambia. You can get a visa from the Zambian High Commission in London before you travel. Single and double entry visit visas are available at all ports of entry, but multi-entry visas are not. If you plan to get a visa on arrival, make sure you have the correct amount of cash with you as change may not be available. If you enter through Kenneth Kaunda International Airport you can now make payment for single and double entry visas via credit or debit card at the Zambian Immigration desks.

You should check your visa endorsement for the period of your stay in Zambia. Although you are allowed 90 days per calendar year the immigration officer will not normally endorse the full length of time upon entry and you will be required to extend their stay at the nearest immigration office.

On leaving Zambia, all air passengers must pay a departure tax of US$25. Although this is normally included in the cost of an air ticket you will be asked to pay separately in Zambian Kwacha if it is not. With effect from 1 January 2011 the National Airports Corporation has added a Security Charge to all departing passengers payable at all NACL airports. The cost is US $3 per person per sector for domestic flights and US $5 per person for international flights. Fees must be paid in Kwacha but is also included in the ticket price.

Volunteer workers should get a business visa from the Zambian High Commission in London before departure. Anyone violating the immigration rules risks arrest, imprisonment and deportation. Agents claiming to be able to arrange residence and work permits from the Immigration Department may be bogus and the documents they provide may be forged.

From 1 December 2014, a new UNIVISA system will be implemented at Zambian/Zimbabwean borders. This will mean that visitors can visit both countries while holding only one valid visa. This applies to all 40 countries that currently require visas for both countries. The new visa system will be applied at Livingstone and Lusaka airports and the border posts at Victoria Falls and Kazungula. The new visa, which is to be called the ‘Kaza’ visa, will cost $50 and will last for 1 month.

Passport validity
Your passport should be valid for a minimum period of 6 months from the date of entry into Zambia and have 2 blank pages.

The Zambian authorities have confirmed they will accept British passports extended by 12 months by British Embassies and Consulates under additional measures put in place in mid-2014.

UK Emergency Travel Documents
UK Emergency Travel Documents (ETDs) are accepted for entry, airside transit, and exit from Zambia. ETDs must be valid for 6 months for entry into Zambia if the holder is not a returning resident.

Dual nationals
The Zambian constitution doesn’t recognise dual nationality.

Yellow fever
Yellow Fever vaccination is required for travellers who are arriving from, or have transited through, countries with risk of yellow fever transmission.

TOURISM IN ZAMBIA

Blessed with awe-inspiring natural wonders, an abundance of wildlife, huge water bodies and vast open spaces, Zambia offers unforgettable holidays exploring the real Africa.

Acknowledged as one of the safest countries in the world to visit, Zambia’s welcoming people live in peace and harmony. And here, in the warm heart of Africa, you will find some of the finest Safari experiences on the planet, including face to face encounters with Nature at its most wild.

Spectacular waterways provide adrenaline-thrills or a leisurely playground of activities for all ages. Seventeen magnificent waterfalls, apart from the spectacular Victoria Falls, provide ‘cascade followers’ an adventure into the remote undeveloped rural areas where a taste of village life can be experienced. Spectacular daily sunsets are almost guaranteed.

Zambia is commonly regarded as one of the most beautiful, friendly, diverse and unspoilt countries on the entire African continent. Aside from the majestic Victoria Falls, Zambia has more natural water resources than any other southern African country, including a myriad of other falls dotted across the country, not to mention the famous Zambezi River. The many National Parks offer great opportunities for observing Africa’s plains game and their attendant predators, whilst bustling urban areas offer a taste of eclectic Zambian culture.

National Parks
Zambia’s game reserves provide pristine sanctuary to a wide variety of wildlife, and boast some of the best game viewing opportunities in the world. From the North and South Parks on the hippo and croc-infested Luangwa River, to the wide expanse of the Lower Zambezi, the vast and little-explored Kafue.

Waterfalls
While Victoria Falls, not surprisingly, tends to steal the limelight, Zambia has an array of wonderful waterfalls, cascades, rapids, cataracts and flumes on the many rich waterways that dissect the country.

Vast Lakes
Whether it’s the history and sheer size of Lake Tanganyika (the world’s longest lake) that draws you, getting off the beaten track at Lake Mweru, or taking in the secluded beach holiday atmosphere that can be found on the banks of Lake Kariba.

Rich Rivers
As if all the lakes and waterfalls weren’t enough, Zambia is also home to the magnificent Zambezi River as well as the Luangwa and Kafue river systems, offering great fishing opportunities, adventure activities and canoeing safaris. These are some of the most unspoilt and best-protected rivers on the continent and are home to much of Zambia’s wildlife.

Major Towns
In recent years the expansion of Zambia’s major towns and cities has been rapid and extensive. Lusaka, the capital city, is now one of Africa’s fastest-growing cities, while the historic town of Livingstone has become the ‘adventure capital’ of the whole of Africa.

• South Luangwa Hotels

• Livingstone Hotels

Zambia Holiday Packages

Zanzibar Holiday Packages

Information on Zimbambwe Travel

Zimbabwe
Zimbabwe, officially the Republic of Zimbabwe, is a landlocked country located in southern Africa, between the Zambezi and Limpopo rivers.
Capital: Harare
President: Robert Mugabe
Currencies: United States Dollar, Euro, Botswana pula, Pound sterling, South African rand
Official languages: Shona, English, Ndebele
Government: Semi-presidential system, Republic

Entry requirements
Visas
You will need a visa to visit Zimbabwe. You can get a visa from the Zimbabwean Embassy in London or on arrival in Zimbabwe. If you have not obtained a visa before travelling, bring enough cash with you in small notes to pay for your visa on arrival.
On1 December 2014, a new joint Zimbabwe/Zambia UNIVISA system was introduced. This means that you can now enter both countries using this dual visa, which is valid for 30 days. All 40 category B passport holders who currently require visas for both countries are eligible to apply. The new visa is issued at the Livingstone, Lusaka and Harare International airports and at the border posts of Victoria Falls and Kazungula. It is not available at the Chirundu border.
Make sure you are travelling with the correct documentation otherwise you risk arrest and deportation. NGO workers should double-check that they have the correct visa. You are not allowed to conduct any business or seek employment if you have a tourist visa. Check current entry requirements with the Zimbabwe High Commission in London before you travel.
Visitors are currently being given entry permission for anything up to 90 days but you should check that the number of days given at the port of entry covers your intended period of stay. You can apply to have this period renewed and extended if required. It is illegal to give a false statement in support of a visa or to work in Zimbabwe without the correct visa or work permit.
Anyone intending to carry out journalistic activity must arrange prior accreditation through the Zimbabwean Embassy in London. Journalists should not carry out any reporting or official photography without the proper accreditation as there is a risk of arrest, detention in difficult conditions, and a possible fine, plus a period of further detention or deportation. The Zimbabwean government has made clear that they will penalise any journalists found to be working in Zimbabwe without accreditation.
The Zimbabwe Government use a broad definition of journalism. This may include any form of interview, filming or photography. You should also carefully consider risks associated with engaging in social media activities relating to the referendum such as posting comments, blogging or sharing photographs, which could be construed as journalism.
Passport validity
Your passport should be valid for a minimum period of 6 months and have 3 blank pages left in it to enable you to enter Zimbabwe and exit via one of the neighbouring countries, if leaving at short notice becomes necessary.
Yellow fever
Yellow fever vaccination is required for travellers arriving from countries with risk of yellow fever transmission.
UK Emergency Travel Documents
Zimbabwe recognises UK Emergency Travel Documents (ETDs) as valid travel documents. ETDs are accepted at ports of entry and exit and must be valid for the period of intended stay.
EU arms embargo
There is an EU arms embargo on Zimbabwe. It is an offence in UK law to take firearms into Zimbabwe at the current time, even if you intend to bring them back to the UK at the end of your visit.
Dual nationals
A growing number of British nationals who have travelled from the United Kingdom to Zimbabwe recently on Zimbabwean Emergency Travel Documents have found themselves stranded in Zimbabwe as these documents are not valid for re-entry to the United Kingdom. In some cases this has caused serious inconvenience.
Top Ten Attractions in Zimbabwe
Houseboat on Lake Kariba
This is a completely unique experience which you definitely must try when visiting Zimbabwe. Spend five days on a houseboat, parking every night in a different spot to view the game in the Matusadona National Park, allowing you to get very close to the wild life. Enjoy fishing off the small tender boats provided during the day, and then relax on your comfortable houseboat at night and enjoy the sunset and sounds of nature surrounding you!!  For more information on hiring houseboats, contact GoKariba.com, and we recommend Kariba Catering to take care of all your food requirements
Flight of the Angels over Victoria Falls
An extremely popular activity in Victoria Falls is to fly over the falls in a helicopter which is known as the “Flight of the Angels”. The flight lasts approx 15 minutes, and gives you breathtaking and scenic views of the thunderous Victoria Falls. The helicopter is able to fly lower than most other planes, giving you the best views of the falls from both directions!!
Bungee Jump off the Victoria Falls Bridge
Nothing beats the thrill of Bungee jumping off the Victoria Falls Bridge; thousands of people have enjoyed this complete adrenaline pumping sport!! Ankle and body harnesses joined to a rope are attached to you, and then you dive head first off the 111m high bridge towards the mighty Zambezi River down below. After jumping you are winched back up onto the Victoria Falls Bridge and will be given photographic evidence of your achievement!!
White Water Rafting on Zambezi River
A pure adventure, enjoy rafting down the Zambezi River below the majestic Victoria Falls. Experienced guides will take care of you whilst you go through rapid after rapid, and you will love your action packed day. At the end of which you will climb out of the Bakota Gorge and be served ice cold refreshments!!
Tiger Fishing on Zambezi River
Another attraction for keen fisherman is to come and try and catch a fighting tiger fish on the The best time of year is September to November, and there are plenty of well equipped camps to choose from along the river banks, which will take care of your every need!!
The Golf Courses in the Eastern Highlands
The Eastern Highlands part of Zimbabwe offers some stunning golf courses. In the Nyanga area, there is the Troutbeck and Claremont courses both offering a good challenge, whilst enjoying the beautiful views and scenery. Not too far from there in the Vumba, is Leopard Rock hotel that has one of the most stunning golf courses in the world, with breathtaking views at every hole!!
Game Viewing on Horseback through Hwange National Park
This type of Safari, gives you the chance to explore the large Hwange National Park which has over many different kinds of game including the Big Five!! On Horse back you will walk on many different animal trails to follow and view all kinds of wildlife, at pans or just relaxing under the shade of an acacia tree. If you are a horse lover and enjoy being in the bush then this definitely is for you!

Photographic Safaris
There are a number of operations in Zimbabwe who do run photographic safaris. Zimbabwe’s National Parks such as Hwange, Mana Pools,  Mutasadona and Matobo Hills National Parks are popular choices, but if you are a bird lover then the Honde Valley and Eastern Highlands are the places to go to take the perfect shot!!

Explore Great Zimbabwe Ruins
The Great Zimbabwe Ruins is a historical site which is well worth a visit, the stone buildings were built in the 11th century and consist entirely of stone and are one of the oldest ruins in Southern Africa. The name Zimbabwe came from the stone structures of Great Zimbabwe and it became a World Heritage Site in 1986. Eight soap stones birds were found in the ruins of Great Zimbabwe.
The Chimanimani Mountains
The Chimanimani Mountains form Zimbabwe’s border with Mozambique in the Eastern Highlands part of the country. They are an ideal place for hikers, to explore the Chirundu tropical rain forest, and view the impressive Bridal Veil Falls. Many rare species of trees are found in the Chirundu forest such as wild orchids and cycads. Another big attraction is the Big Tree which is a red mahogany that is over a thousand years old!!

• Bulawayo Hotels

• Harare Hotels

• Hwange Hotels

• Manicaland Hotels

• Mashonaland West Province Hotels

• Masvingo Hotels

• Victoria Falls Hotels

• Mutare Hotels

Zimbabwe Holiday Packages