Tripoli, Libya Destination Guide Overview of Tripoli The Libyan capital of Tripoli is ordinarily filled with wonderful sights, charm and hospitality. Situated on the Mediterranean Sea in the northwest of the country, Tripoli has one of the largest harbours in North Africa; it is a city constantly abuzz with activity. The many historical sites and ruins dotted throughout the city stand testament to its rich and fascinating history. Visitors to Tripoli can stroll in the bustling bazaars, shopping for holiday souvenirs and trinkets as well as beautiful textiles and exquisite jewellery. Tourists are spoilt for choice when it comes to the amazing sights in and around the city, from the Red Castle to the Gurgi and Karamanli Mosques. Tripoli is overflowing with places to discover and sights to behold. Unfortunately, this wonderful city has seen hard times in recent years thanks to rebel and terrorist activity during and in the aftermath of civil war. While its many wonders remain undimmed, travellers are advised to do careful research before visiting the city, and to take note of the serious travel warnings issued by various international governments. Key Facts Language: The official language of Libya is Arabic (used for all official business), though some Italian and English is spoken, especially in the cities. Passport/Visa: Most foreign passengers require a visa to enter Libya. Tourist visas must be organised in advance, but can sometimes be issued on arrival; provided that travellers are holding a copy of a letter issued by the Libyan immigration authorities, confirming that a visa will be granted to them upon their arrival at the airport. This copy must be sent to the office of the transporting carrier in Libya at least 24 hours in advance. Visitors travelling to Libya for touristic purposes are also required to convert USD 1,000 (or equivalent) in freely convertible cash, or to debit the amount from a valid credit card upon their arrival at the airport. Failure to do so will result in the traveller being refused entry to Libya. Note that admission and transit will be refused to holders of (i) documents containing a valid or expired visa for Israel, or (ii) tickets showing an Israeli destination. All visitors must also hold proof of sufficient funds to cover their expenses while in Libya, and a yellow fever vaccination certificate (if arriving within six days or leaving or transiting through an infected area). Please note that the volatile political situation in Libya means that visa/entry requirements often change abruptly, and as such, travellers should make sure they are in possession of up-to-date information BEFORE leaving home. NOTE: It is highly recommended that your passport has at least six months validity remaining after your intended date of departure from your travel destination. Immigration officials often apply different rules to those stated by travel agents and official sources. Currency: The Libyan Dinar (LYD), divided into 1,000 dirhams. Electricity: Electrical current is 230 volts, 50Hz. Round three-pin plugs are used. Power outages are common. Travel guide by wordtravels.com © Globe Media Ltd. By its very nature much of the information in this travel guide is subject to change at short notice and travellers are urged to verify information on which they're relying with the relevant authorities. Travmarket cannot accept any responsibility for any loss or inconvenience to any person as a result of information contained above. Event details can change. Please check with the organizers that an event is happening before making travel arrangements. We cannot accept any responsibility for any loss or inconvenience to any person as a result of information contained above. Page 1/10 Tripoli, Libya Destination Guide Travel to Tripoli Climate for Tripoli Health Notes when travelling to Libya There are no major health risks associated with travel to Libya. Visitors travelling from infected areas require a yellow fever vaccination certificate. Travellers are encouraged to get vaccinations for tetanus, hepatitis A, hepatitis B, and typhoid. Healthcare facilities in Libya are basic and travellers are advised to have full health insurance. In remote areas there may be no health facilities at all, therefore travellers are advised to carry their own basic medications. Tap water in Libya is chlorinated, but it is advised that visitors drink only bottled or boiled water. Safety Notes when travelling to Libya Libya remains unstable and unpredictable in the wake of civil war, with various extremist groups and political factions warring for control. Ports and airports have been targeted by terrorist groups. Terrorism is a real threat and travellers should be particularly alert to the kidnapping threat as foreigners have previously been targeted. The political instability has reportedly also led to an increase in crime levels. Safety in Libya is far from certain and most government agencies advise against all travel to the country at this time. Customs in Libya Libya is an Islamic country and visitors should be respectful in terms of following Arabic customs, particularly during the month of Ramadan when eating, drinking, smoking and chewing gum in public is forbidden. Swimwear should be restricted to beaches, and women should dress modestly, and avoid Arab gatherings where women are not permitted. Homosexuality is illegal and extramarital sexual relationships are forbidden. Criticism of the Libyan Government, Islam and the country itself is not tolerated. Permission must always be sought prior to photographing people, and it is not recommended that a camera be used or carried near any official or military buildings. Libya is one of the strictest countries in terms of a ban on alcohol and drugs, and neither should be brought into the country, though smoking is very common. Duty Free in Libya Travellers may enter the country with 200 cigarettes or 250 cigars or 250g tobacco, and 250ml of perfume. All alcohol and drugs are strictly prohibited, as well as almost all foodstuffs. There is also an extensive list of banned items, including any articles manufactured or produced in Israel, and it is best to consult a Libyan Embassy for more information before travel. Doing Business in Libya Communication in Libya Tipping in Libya Not common, may be offensive. However, tipping tour guides is appreciated. Passport/Visa Note Most foreign passengers require a visa to enter Libya. Tourist visas must be organised in advance, but can sometimes be issued on arrival; provided that travellers are holding a copy of a letter issued by the Libyan immigration authorities, confirming that a visa will be granted to them upon their arrival at the airport. This copy must be sent to the office of the transporting carrier in Libya at least 24 hours in advance. Visitors travelling to Libya for touristic purposes are also required to convert USD 1,000 (or equivalent) in freely convertible cash, or to debit the amount from a valid credit card upon their arrival at the airport. Failure to do so will result in the traveller being refused entry to Libya. Note that admission and transit will be refused to holders of (i) documents containing a valid or expired visa for Israel, or (ii) tickets showing an Israeli destination. All visitors must also hold proof of sufficient funds to cover their expenses while in Libya, and a yellow fever vaccination certificate (if arriving within six days or leaving or transiting through an infected area). Please note that the volatile political situation in Libya means that visa/entry requirements often change abruptly, and as such, travellers should make sure they are in possession of up-to-date information BEFORE leaving home. NOTE: It is highly recommended that your passport has at least six months validity remaining after your intended date of departure from your travel destination. Immigration officials often apply different rules to those stated by travel agents and official sources. Page 2/10 Tripoli, Libya Destination Guide Entry Requirements Entry requirements for Americans: US citizens must have a passport that is valid upon their arrival in Libya. A visa is required. Entry requirements for Canadians: Canadian citizens must have a passport that is valid upon their arrival in Libya. A visa is required. Entry requirements for UK nationals: British citizens must have a passport that is valid upon their arrival in Libya. A visa is required. Entry requirements for Australians: Australian citizens must have a passport that is valid upon their arrival in Libya. A visa is required. Entry requirements for Irish nationals: Irish citizens must have a passport that is valid upon their arrival in Libya. A visa is required. Entry requirements for New Zealanders: New Zealand citizens must have a passport that is valid upon their arrival in Libya. A visa is required. Entry requirements for South Africans: South African citizens must have a passport that is valid upon their arrival in Libya. A visa is required. Page 3/10 Tripoli, Libya Destination Guide Getting around in Tripoli, Libya Page 4/10 Tripoli, Libya Destination Guide Attractions in Tripoli, Libya Page 5/10 Tripoli, Libya Destination Guide Nightlife in Tripoli, Libya Page 6/10 Tripoli, Libya Destination Guide Shopping in Tripoli, Libya Page 7/10 Tripoli, Libya Destination Guide Dining in Tripoli, Libya Page 8/10 Tripoli, Libya Destination Guide Airports in Tripoli Tripoli International Airport (TIP) Tripoli International Airport Location: Tripoli The airport is situated 19 miles (30km) south of Tripoli. Time: GMT +2. Contacts: +218 94 429 7241 Transfer between terminals: There is currently only one terminal for both international and national travel. Getting to the city: Unless transport has been arranged with a tour operator prior to arrival, taxis are the principal means of transport to the city. Car rental: Car rental companies at the airport include Alamo, Avis, Europcar, Hertz and Sixt.