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benin:
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Here's some travel advice to keep you informed and safe when it comes
to travel to Benin...
Crime
Criminal violence, such as armed hold-ups and car-jackings, is reported to be on the increase throughout Benin and continues to be common in the area bordering Nigeria. Petty crime, including muggings and robberies, occurs near hotels, railways and beaches frequented by international visitors. The risk of crime increases after dark, especially in tourist areas and on highways and rural roads outside the major metropolitan areas.
Commercial fraud scams are common in Benin. If you receive a message that sounds too good to be true - don't be fooled, it probably is. Individuals have been victims of extortion after being persuaded to travel to Benin on business.
Local Travel
Driving in Benin can be dangerous due to poor road conditions, poorly maintained vehicles and inadequate street lighting. Pedestrians and animals often stray onto roads, which pose additional safety risks.
There is no reliable public transportation.
Natural Disasters
In the south, the rainy season is April to July and September to October and in the north, from June to September and flooding may occur. Unpaved roads may become impassable.
Local Law and Customs
Travellers are reminded that when overseas, they are subject to local laws. Local laws and legal processes can be very different from those in your country. A violation of local laws may result in a jail sentence, served in a local prison. Consular assistance cannot override local law, even where local laws may appear harsh or unjust by your standards.
Drug offences carry mandatory sentences, regardless of the quantity, including those involving 'soft drugs'.
Homosexual acts between adults (of either sex) in Benin, are illegal.
Photography is illegal around government buildings, military zones, military assets and/or military personnel.
Local customs
Benin is a very conservative society and you should dress and behave so as not to offend.
Entry and Exit Requirements
Visa conditions change regularly. Contact the nearest Embassy or Consulate of Benin for the most up to date information.
Benin is listed by the World Health Organisation (WHO) as endemic for yellow fever. Some airlines may require passengers to present a valid Yellow Fever Vaccination Certificate before being allowed to board flights out of the country. If in doubt, check with your airline.
Health Issues
Medical facilities are poor and basic in rural areas.
Malaria and other tropical diseases are common in West African countries, including Benin. We encourage you to consider having vaccinations before travelling, taking prophylaxis against malaria and using an insect repellent. Water-borne, food-borne and other infectious diseases (including HIV/AIDS, cholera, yellow fever, hepatitis, bilharzia, tuberculosis) are prevalent with more serious outbreaks occurring from time to time. We advise you to drink bottled water and avoid ice cubes and uncooked food. Seek medical advice if you have a fever or are suffering from diarrhoea.
Your doctor or travel clinic is the best source of information about immunisations and disease outbreaks overseas. The World Health Organization (WHO) provides information for travellers.
Travel and Health Insurance
Travel and health insurance is strongly recommended for all overseas travel. Travellers should check with their insurer to make sure that their policy meets their needs. In particular, travellers should seek advice from their insurer on what type of circumstances and activities are the subject of exclusions in their policy.
Source: Australian Department of Foreign Affairs & Trade
If you're gonna travel abroad, make sure you are prepared... take it from us, travel insurance is an absolute must!
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