Somalia has a tropical but not torrid
climate and there is little seasonal change in temperature. In the low areas
the average temperature ranges from about 24.4°C to 31°C
(76°-88°F). In the plateau region, it is cooler; in the southwest
warmer. The periodic winds, the southwest monsoon (June to September) and the
northeast monsoon (December to March) influence temperature and rainfall. Rain
falls in two seasons of the year: heavy rains from March to May and light rains
from September to December. Average rainfall is estimated at 11 inches but it
is irregular and droughts are frequent.
Official Currency: Somali
Shilling=100 cents Current Exchange Rate:
Today's Exchange
Rate
Credit cards are generally not accepted although some larger
establishment do accept Diners Club. It is very difficult to change any form of
currency that is not US Dollars.
Air:
Somali Airlines has a domestic service to between the major towns.
Sea: Because the roads are in poor condition the coastline is a
popular route for transportation of cargo and people
Public
Transport: In the south of the country, most the larger towns are
serviced by a regular network of buses. Elsewhere there are very few cars and
buses.
It is difficult to drive outside of Mogadishu by car and road
conditions are poor apart from major routes. Driving is on the right hand side
and an International Driving Licence is required. There are a few car hire
firms in Mogadishu.
If you need medical care whilst in
Somalia, it is best to be aware that medical providers may not accept payment
through your insurance company. In these circumstances you will have to pay in
full after your treatment and file a claim with your insurance company for
reimbursement. Therefore you should have access to cash, either from a credit
card or by wire transfer. If you need assistance contact the country's local
embassy or representative.
To be compensated you must be treated by
licensed medical personnel and provide your insurance company with proper
documentation and receipts.
It is advisable to always ensure you have a
comprehensive travel insurance policy which covers you for repatriation to your
home country.
You can check out the following websites which specialise
in long term travellers, adventure travellers, backpackers and workers based
abroad.
Insure and Go - UK Travellers whether it's for a one
off holiday or if you travel many times over the year, if you're off
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world; if you're after winter sports cover or if it's for a business trip, a
wedding abroad or a golfing weekend away, we have a policy at the right price
to ensure you have the peace of mind that you are covered for the unexpected
while you're away.
- UK Travellers Offering a full range of policies,
single trip, young travellers, long stay, annual cover for UK residents. Get
your quote and policy on-line....
Insure My Trip - USA travellers offer 63 different
travel insurance plans from 14 different companies - no other site has such
product depth or comparison features. You can compare each policy giving you
the information you need to make an informed decision about your travel
insurance needs. .
Downunder Insurance - UK - Australia and New Zealand
Travellers offers travel insurance to travellers and residents in the
UK, Australia and New Zealand. Our cover ranges from basic to highly
comprehensive, with affordable policies aimed at backpackers and gap-year
students, but with cover available to travellers and holiday makers up to 55
years of age.
