Social ConventionsLife in Libya is regulated fairly strictly along socialist/Islamic principles; in general, Arab courtesies and social customs prevail and should be respected. Women do not generally attend typical Arab gatherings. In religious buildings and small towns, modest dress is advisable. On no account must alcohol be brought into the country. Severe penalties are imposed for criticising the country, its leadership or religion. Homosexuality is considered a criminal offence and sexual relationships outside of marriage are punishable by law.
Photography: It is unwise to
use or carry cameras especially close to military or official sites.
International Travel:Getting There by AirThe national airline is
Libyan Arab Airlines (LN) (website:
www.libyanarabairline.com).
Departure TaxNone.
Main AirportsTripoli International (TIP) is 25km (15.5 miles) south of the city.
To/from the airport: Bus and taxi services are available to the city (journey time – 40 minutes).
Facilities: Chemist, post office, light refreshments, duty-free shops, banks, restaurants and shops.
Benghazi International (BEN) is 19km (12 miles) east of Benghazi city center.
Getting There by WaterMain ports: Es-Sider, Benghazi, Darna, Mersa Brega, Misurata and
Tripoli.
Cruise lines call at Libya.
Getting There by RailThere are currently no international rail links, although work has begun on a network.
Getting There by RoadMain routes to Libya are from Egypt or Tunisia. Several
buses and
taxis operate on these routes.
OverviewThe following goods may be imported into Libya without incurring customs duty:
200 cigarettes or 250g of tobacco or 250g cigars;
250ml of perfume.
Prohibited ImportsAll alcohol is prohibited, as is the import of obscene literature, pork, pork products and any kind of food (including tinned). All goods made in Israel or manufactured by companies that do business with Israel are prohibited, for instance Coca Cola and certain makes of CDs and tapes. For a full list of prohibited items, contact the nearest Libyan diplomatic representative.
Internal Travel:Getting Around By AirLibyan Arab Airlines (LN) (website:
www.libyanarabairline.com) provides internal services between Tripoli and Benghazi, Ghadames, Ghat, Houn, Lebreq and Sebha.
Buraq Air (UZ) (website:
www.buraqair.com) also provides a domestic service between Tripoli and Benghazi.
Getting Around by RailThere is currently no train service, but a network is being constructed.
Getting Around by RoadTraffic drives on the right. The main through-road follows the coast from west to east. Road conditions in Libya are reasonable. Signposts are only in Arabic script; signs are, in any case, rare outside the main towns. The standard of driving is poor in comparison to European standards.
Bus/taxi: There are bus services, including luxury, air-conditioned coaches, between Tripoli and Benghazi and other major urban areas. A minibus service operates from Benghazi to Tobruk. Taxi fares can be quite expensive and should be agreed in advance.
Car hire: Car hire is available from international companies based in Tripoli airport and city. Elsewhere, self-drive cars are available but cars can be poorly maintained. Off-road driving is best done with 4-wheel drive and in organized tour groups. Wind-blown sand deposits and wild animals can cause hazards on the roads. Drivers should be well-prepared with fuel, water and food.
Regulations: Police enforcement of traffic signs and laws is rare.
Documentation: National driving license valid for three months. After this time, a Libyan license must be obtained.
Note: Travelers visiting the desert regions require permission (a desert pass) from the Libyan authorities in advance. Tour operators can usually obtain these. Oil companies will provide passes for their employees.
Getting Around Towns and CitiesA substantial publicly-owned bus system operates in Tripoli. Fares are charged on a three-zone basis. There is a similar system in operation in Benghazi. Services are generally irregular and overcrowded.
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