OUR DESTINATIONS
Let us help you find your perfect holiday by phoning us on
We offer holidays to the four corners of the globe. If you want specialist advise please phone our travel team and we will be happy to help.
Alternatively, check out some of our holiday offers below.
- Destinations
- Africa
- Algeria
Algeria
Algeria is not generally considered to be a tourist destination
and despite a gradual decline in violence between the 1990s and
now, there has been an increase over the last four years in attacks
directed specifically at foreigners. A copycat Al-Qaeda
organisation has orchestrated violent attacks on UN workers and
Americans in particular. That said, for those who can't avoid
travel to the region, Algeria is not short on sightseeing
opportunities.
The capital city of Algiers, sitting on the northern coastline,
is a growing metropolis. Once a strategic point of entry for would
be conquerors from Europe and the Middle East, it now welcomes the
presence of multi-nationals such as Carrefour and Quick.
Historically the most popular remnant of battles waged on the
city's coast is the Cashbah, the labyrinth citadel (now a world
heritage site) which was first built in 1660. Also along the coast
is Tipasa, a pleasant seaside village which holds some spectacular
Roman ruins. Timgad, which is further south, holds North Africa's
most extensive and best preserved Roman Ruins.
Typically Mediterranean in climate, Algeria has warm sandy
beaches, particularly around Oran, a popular tourist destination in
the summer months. The infamous Sahara Desert begins right where
the coast ends, rocky at first, elevating over the vast Haut
Plateaux (High Plateaus) before becoming untold miles of sand and
sun. In the far south of Algeria is the Hoggar mountain region
which holds the nation's highest peak, the Tahat Mountian, and
caverns of rock paintings dating back to the time of the Berbers,
over 10,000 years ago.
Information & Facts
Business
Pleasantries are considered essential to business dealings in
Algeria. Ask after one another's health and demeanour. Do not back
out of a handshake too hastily. Closeness is an expression of
warmth and familiarity to Algerians. Business cards are used, if
possible though, have them translated to Arabic and/or French.
Climate
Algeria holds all the hallmarks of a Mediterranean climate. Warm
but wet in the winter along the coast while extremely cold on the
higher plateau. Summers are dry along the coast and downright arid
as you progress inland. The hot sirocco wind can make for an
unpleasant summer.
Communications
The international access code for Algeria is +213. The outgoing
code is 00 followed by the code.
Customs
Being a predominantly Islamic state, visitors would do well to
familiarise themselves with the religion before going to Algeria.
Holy months and days mean businesses are often closed for lengthy
periods. It is advisable not to travel there during the holy month
of Ramadan. Homosexual activity is illegal and punishable by
imprisonment. Women are expected to dress conservatively and no
smoking is allowed in public. Drinking of alcohol is also frowned
upon though some locals might partake. Photographing of police or
military personnel or establishments is strictly prohibited.
Duty Free
Travellers are allowed to import 200 cigarettes or 50 cigars,
half a litre of Eau de Cologne and 150ml of perfume in opened
bottles and 1 litre of alcoholic beverages per person. Travellers
may export an unlimited amount of tobacco products. Narcotics,
firearms and gold are strictly prohibited.
Electricity
Electrical current in Algeria is 230 volts, 50Hz.
European 2-pin and 'Schuko' plugs are standard.
Health
Travellers visiting Algeria should be aware of the risk of
malaria and the use of mosquito nets and repellent will help reduce
the risk of contracting the disease. Travellers should also make
sure they receive a booster hepatitis A vaccine before travelling
to Algeria. A tetanus booster vaccine is also recommended and
rabies occurs in some parts of the country so travellers coming
into contact with wild animals should be cautious. HIV/AIDS is also
prevalent throughout the country.
Language
Arabic and Berber are the official languages in Algeria.
English and French are used in some government departments and
media.
Money
The unit of currency is the Algeria Dinar (DZD), which is
divided into 100 centimes.
Passport Visa
Passport must be valid for at least six months after intended
stay. Visas are required for all visitors except when in transit
and spending less than 24 hours without leaving the airport. A
transit visa for up to 48 hours can be obtained from airport
authorities. Visitors may be required to produce return/onward
tickets, other documents for next destination and proof of
sufficient funds.
Safety
Algeria's president has lifted the two-decade state of
emergency, however this is widely believed to be an attempt to
pacify growing unrest within the country. Travellers to Algeria
should always be vigilant and check with their tour operator or
travel agent before embarking. Long trips should be avoided as well
as crowds and protests. Terrorism is a big problem in Algeria,
taking the form of kidnappings, bombings and cross-country
ambushes.
Time
Local time in Algeria is GMT +1.
Tipping
A 10% tip is expected but may be factored into the price at more
upmarket venues.