After some relaxing days in Sierra Leone visiting villages, beach hopping and enjoying the capital, Freetown, I thought it was time to make way to by country number 116, Liberia.
No. 2 Beach, Sierra Leone. My favourite beach so far in West Africa!
The Slow Way To Liberia
I prefered to move slowly from Sierra Leone to Liberia in order to see some new places on the way. I wanted to take my time in Sierra Leone and there were several reasons why. First of all because it’s a pretty relaxed English speaking country in this region, which is rare to find. Secondly because when I entered Sierra Leone from the north, I was almost not allowed to enter. I had to be creative and my quick way of thinking saved me in the last second, otherwise it would have been NO Sierra Leone!
Climbing the Lester Peak with a nice view over Freetown, Sierra Leone
After having a fun time in the north of Sierra Leone in Makeni, I went to Freetown and the area around there for some days. After having seen the beaches in Conakry, Guinea, I was stunned to see the difference in the beauty of the beaches in Sierra Leone in such relatively small distance.
Dirty Beach in Conakry, Guinea
Most beaches in Sierra Leone
Tokeh Beach Resort in Sierra Leone.. Different class!
Hard to leave Sierra Leone
It was honestly nice to relax a bit in Sierra Leone, especially to get out of the capital Freetown and enjoy the small villages and lovely beaches. Also enjoyed to eat some of my favourite West African food, the ‘Sierra Leonean attiéké’, with fermented and grated cassava and a blend of various ingredients. Definitely a different supplement to the rice and fish you’ll get most places here, which can get boring in the long run.
Sierra Leonean attiéké is delicious
Too late for Liberia
I wasn’t too far from the border to Liberia and wanted to do some more exploring before crossing the border from Sierra Leone to Liberia. What I didn’t think about was that the border from Sierra Leone to Liberia would close at 6.30 pm. I found out of this randomly mid day and thought it was maybe the right time to head down to the border. I had a strong belief I would make it in time, still with plenty hours to go!
In a southern village Gbongay, Sierra Leone
I found a shared car going to the border and negotiated a fair (cheap) price with the driver. There was just one thing wrong. I quickly found out this could be a big problem in order to reach the border in time. Something was wrong with the driver. Me and the other passengers were in deep sh*t literally!
The Driver’s Diarrhea (Mr. Poo Poo)
I sat next to a very funny guy in the shared taxi, who said he was the black Cristiano Ronaldo!
Me and the black Cristiano Ronaldo and another guy out in nowhere, Sierra Leone
We had several stops on the way there and in the beginning we didn’t understand why we stopped the car all the time, because we were in a bit of a rush. The driver kept running away from the car every time he stopped the car. We quickly found out something wasn’t as it should be with him. After a few stops the driver pointed to his stomach and signaled something was wrong. The black Cristiano Ronaldo said: “We have to drive now Mr. Poo Poo” and every one in the car laughed, including the driver, even though he was in pain. Really a shitty situation for all of us, most of all for the driver!
The clock was 5 pm. Only 1,5 hour to the border would close…
We had to keep on going!
“Mr. Poo Poo” in pain! He insisted to keep on driving.. Would we make the border in time?!
The Liberian Border Would Close Soon
The minutes were counting down. Time was now 6 pm, which meant we only had 30 minutes to go, before the border would close!
I talked to the black Cristiano Ronaldo about the possibility of the border still being open, when we arrived, but I could see on my offline Maps.Me that we had at least 40 minutes to go. Time on a map in West Africa is never correct and that’s a fact. We arrived 7.09 pm. 39 min after the border closed!
Border closed 18.30 sharp. We didn’t make it!
Mr. Poo Poo was off to a little home made African toilet immediately at the border, but it didn’t take away the shit we were all in right now!
Me and a Liberian guy at the closed border! Before we knew the consequences of this situation
It was getting dark and I was there with the black Cristiano Ronaldo, the Liberian guy and Mr. Poo Poo and we discussed where we could sleep and none of us had any clue. We really didn’t want to sleep in the car after an exhausting ride. We were out in nowhere and the heavy rain could come anytime.
Stuck at the border between Sierra Leone and Liberia. Rain hits really hard in the night in rainy season!
The driver called someone and the black Cristiano Ronaldo said we could maybe go on some muddy roads through the forest at night to a village. The roads were really muddy, maybe not as muddy as the driver’s underpants, but indeed muddy!
We drove over 4 small rivers during night to find a place to sleep. Driver wasn’t scared we would get stuck with the car in the dark forest
The Right Track
Mr. Poo Poo drove us the right way. We were now in this village the black Cristiano Ronaldo mentioned to him and me and the Black Cristiano Ronaldo and the Liberian guy went out to search for a place to sleep. It was really hard to find anything and there weren’t many people we could ask during the night, but we found a place with a small ‘Motel’ sign, which looked really creepy. They had two rooms available.
What to do!?
Inside the motel at the border. Straight out of a horror movie
We all agreed that I took the single room. Sounded good to me at first, until I found out the lights went on and off every 1 second, the window was open and couldn’t close (would someone jump in or would the mosquitoes bite me like crazy?!), no mosquito net, no toilet. Anyway it was time to sleep.. We were all too exhausted to thing about anything late at night now!
My $7 motel room at the border to Liberia
Good Morning And Hello Liberia
The border crossing went pretty okay, besides a lot of police check points when we entered Liberia, but I was happy to be with the black Cristiano Ronaldo all the way to Monrovia, Liberia. It went a lot smoother with him, because he small-talked to all the police officers and they seemed to like him.
He is honestly a guy I’ll never forget. He was so excited to go home to his wife in Monrovia, Liberia to have a special dish she would make for him. But he came 1 day too late and I saw his girlfriend was texting angry messages to him about him sleeping with his side chick in Sierra Leone. Ouch!
I can confirm he slept with a Liberian guy and I hope for him he had his favourite dish today in Monrovia, Liberia! Top guy!
Me and the black Cristiano Ronaldo in the morning ready to pass the border to Liberia
You can get scammed anywhere in the World, not only in Africa for sure. These 7 Advices on How To Avoid Travel Scams are great to keep in mind, no matter where you go. Stay safe out there!
Travel Scams Happen To Anyone?
I’ve traveled a lot over the last 7 years, and to be fair a proper travel scam can hit us all, experienced traveler or not. But for me it has become more rare now that it happens and on a much smaller scale, than in the beginning when I started traveling, because I stick to these 7 rules on how to avoid travel scams.
Pretending to be interested in buying carpets in Tunis, Tunisia 2017
Why Scams In Africa And Not Another Place?
After having spent a big part of my adulthood in Africa, this article is mainly about how to avoid some of the 7 most common travel scams in Africa, but similar scams scan be found in any other continent. So if you go Europe, North America, South America, Latin America, Australia or wherever, you can still use these tips, so you don’t get caught off guard so easily, even though a travel scam can happen for us all.
When I started to travel around Africa many years ago I was often blind folded and trusted wrong people too much, which can be an expensive mistake here. I’ve seen famous Travel Vloggers in Africa pay $300 for a simple 1 hour boat trip in Zanzibar. SCAM! I paid $5 for a half day boat trip, swimming with wild dolphins in Zanzibar, because I went to a local fisherman there and asked him instead. It’s easy for tourists to fall in ‘the tourist trap’, especially if you’re new to traveling around Africa. After the boat trip the fisherman and I became friends and enjoyed some fish together. You have to know your psychology in Africa and quickly find out, which people are genuine and which people have hidden interests with you.
Swimming with turtles in Nungwi, Zanzibar, Tanzania
7 Most Common Travel Scams In 2019 (Africa)
1: Broken Taxi Meter
Cab drivers near airports or train stations are known to pull this scam, but it can happen in any place. When you get into a taxi and start to drive, the driver will inform you, (or not inform you,) that the meter is broken and charge you a ridiculous price (to the tune of 100s of dollars if you’re not careful).
My Experience:
This is a pretty common scam in some African countries. I’ve probably had 10 different taxi drivers try to pull this scam on me around the world and half of them were when traveling in Africa.
How To Avoid It:
I usually agree the price before I get in the taxi, but if there’s a taxi meter I make sure it looks legit and works as it should. I usually check in the first 30 seconds how the taxi meter goes, and if it’s looks wrong, I quickly get out of the taxi. Negotiate rates ahead of time, or ensure the meter is in fact working. If the taxi driver refuses to turn on the meter, or tells you it’s cheaper without the meter, get out and opt for another driver. Not all cab drivers are scammers, but I honestly prefer to avoid taxis if possible.
I usually avoid taxis if possible. Here around Bamako, Mali with a much more fun option!
2: Fake Police Officers
These guys look totally legit?!
The fake police officer scam is a popular one in many large cities or capitals. Most often, a person will approach a tourist and offer illicit items, like drugs. While conversing one or two other people will approach, appearing to be police officers and flashing “badges.” They will then insist the unknowing traveler hand over their passport and wallet. However, they are not police officers.
My Experience:
I’ve had similar experiences, mostly in Africa and Latin America. In Maputo, Mozambique I had fake police stopping me all the time, to check my bag for ‘cocaine’ and other stuff, usually just wasting my time to try to get money out of me.
How To Avoid It:
Never hand over your wallet or passport. Request they show you their identification and then inform them you will call the police to confirm they are who they say they are. Or tell them your passport is locked up in the hotel safe, and they’ll need to accompany you to your hotel. If they don’t allow this, simply walk away.
In Mozambique I asked for the fake cops identification and couldn’t stop to laugh about their homemade Police ID. Some of the fake police men would follow me around for 15 min and in the end ask me for any kind of tips. Tips for the police? Really.. How come, for what?
A lovely city, but sooo much fake police in Maputo, Mozambique
3: Friendly ATM Helper
Someone approaches at an ATM cash machine to help you avoid local bank fees. What they really want to do is scan your ATM card with the card skimmer in their pocket and watch you enter your pin number, so they can drain your account later.
My Experience:
I never fell for this scam, but a close friend of mine did in South Africa.
One man was the helpful local, the second pretended to be a fellow customer waiting in line who agreed with what the first was saying. When the first guy cancelled my friend’s transaction and told him to try again, he then scanned the password and the other guy quickly took his card, a car quickly pulled up to the side in literally no seconds and off they were, leaving my friend running after them in tears.
How To Avoid It:
Never let anyone near you while you’re making an ATM transaction, and ALWAYS cover the number pad with your other hand while entering your pin code. If someone approaches, take your card and find another ATM. Always have a look over your shoulder to see if anyone is too near to you.
South Africa is beautiful, but can be brutal with scams at certain places!
4: Injured Or Child Beggars
Usually deaf, blind, or pregnant, sometimes accompanied by a “helper”, beggars will ask you for money. Women with babies are common (they might not even be theirs). Children are also frequently used by begging gangs to collect money. Why? Because it’s difficult for most people to say no to the old, injured, or young. Sometimes an accomplice nearby is just watching to see where you keep your wallet, so they can pickpocket you later.
My Experience:
You’ll see this stuff almost everywhere.
How To Avoid It:
It’s practically impossible to distinguish who is legit and who is not, so my policy is to never give cash to street beggars. I’m a very emphatic person and I want to help everyone suffering, but when traveling in Africa or other places in the World, it’s a big mission impossible to help everyone. However I do buy food, water or giveaway old clothes sometimes. Then your money isn’t going to a gang, alcohol or drugs.
Traveling around mountain villages in Congo
5: Gemstone Or Carpet Deals
A local man casually brings up his lucrative side business of buying jewelry, gemstones, watches or carpets then selling them back in the United States (or some other country) for a fat profit. He offers to share how he does it, and shows you where to find the best deal. The only problem is that these products are fake.
My Experience:
This has never happened to me. For me I don’t believe in the stories that: “Jesus had this earring in his ear or washed his body in this towel,” but I can assure you that some people do and pay A LOT OF MONEY for their stupidity, because they’re actually just getting scammed!
How To Avoid It:
Don’t buy expensive luxury items overseas while on vacation, no matter how good the deal is. Remember, if it’s too good to be true, it’s probably a travel scam.
In North African countries like Morocco, Egypt, Tunisia people will try to sell you some really expensive overpriced stuff in some cases!
6: Flirtatious Local Women
You arrive to a new country only to discover that beautiful local women seem to pay much more attention to you than back home. One of them invites you out to a nightclub or bar. However after a wild night, the woman disappears and you’re forced to pay an overpriced bill. Or worse, drugged and robbed.
My Experience:
This hasn’t happened to me. I can usually see what a woman’s intention is quiet easily. If she gives me the wrong signals, I know I need to be aware and in most cases I stop the conversation before it even gets started. There are much better women to surround yourself with than these types!
How To Avoid It:
Be wary of attractive women who are unusually forward or hitting on you aggressively. I know it is every man’s dream to be propositioned by beautiful women, but if it’s not a normal occurrence for you, then it’s probably a scam and you can end up paying big time for it!
Out clubbing! With an ex-gang member from Mozambique, who came out on the right side and is now employed in my Mozambican friend’s Henry’s company
7: Fake Bus/Train/Plane Tickets
Someone offers to sell you train tickets at a discount, or avoid the line and pay a slightly higher price. Maybe a taxi driver offers to bring you to his friend who’s a local travel agent. However the tickets they are selling aren’t real, and by the time you figure it out, the scammers are gone with your money.
My Experience:
One time when entering Gibraltar a man started to scratch my rental car in the front window and asked for 20 euros for the ticket. I was very confused on what happened, and I was just about to give him the money, when I realized he looked drunk and it was a scam, so I drove away. Ticket scam! Also I bought a fake bus ticket in Zambia for a long drive, but the bus driver was nice to me and let me in the bus anyways! Top guy!
How To Avoid It:
Always buy transportation tickets from the official ticket office or website.
After a nice game of football in a little village in Zambia, where I had a ticket scam right before!
Conclusion
Try to stay avoid these 7 scams, and you’ll enjoy Africa a lot more and it will be relatively cheap. If you do something over the top extraordinary when traveling in Africa, it’s obviously pricey!
Like
1: Climbing Africa’s Highest Mountain, Mount Kilimanjaro
Climbing Kilimanjaro isn’t cheap, but it’s one of the absolute best thing you can do!
2: Paying the gorilla permit to see the mountain gorillas in the rain forest in Bwindi National Park, Uganda
Will never forget my time with the wild mountain gorillas in Uganda in 2015
3: Safaris can be a bit expensive also, but worth it!
Safari in Ngorongoro, Tanzania 2016
But sometimes even for a safari in Africa you can pay very little…
Walking around wild rhinos for free in Zimbabwe, 2013
Africa is cheap (just avoid the scams)
I hear many people saying Africa is so expensive to travel, and yes, it is more expensive than South East Asia, but in most cases what adds up the expenses are the scams. Visas and accommodation can cost you a bit, but public transport, food and a lot of other stuff are in most African countries extremely cheap.
Eating local Kenyan food with my buddy John Kennedy in Nairobi, Kenya 2016
Remember’s
Remember to question everything and make sure you know the price before you’re getting a taxi, a new haircut or buying food. I usually confirm the price on the calculator on my phone to avoid misunderstandings. I had a taxi driver wanting to scam me in Senegal recently by putting an extra 0 on the price, but I already had confirmed the price with the taxa guy on the calculator before we went. In that way I had no problem rejecting his new price. Also remember to have TOTALLY ORDER in your passport, documents, stamps, vaccinations etc., a small mistake in any of these will be super expensive at a corrupt police check-point. Last but not least, don’t wear expensive clothes or jewelry when traveling in Africa, in this way you invite scammers to come to you straight away. I usually wear basic shorts, a normal t-shirt and a dirty cap, when I’m in crowded markets or places to avoid getting too much bad attention.
Africa is the continent where everything is possible, so remember to check out your options before you do something. And remember to try to avoid these 7 Most Common Travel Scams, it’ll help you!
With the National Team of Swaziland in the ‘new country,’ Eswatini 2018
Travel Scammers Suck!
The truth is that no matter how prepared you think you are, you’ll eventually fall for some sort of travel scam. But don’t let this deter you from traveling the world. Think of it as a rite of passage.
Sure, it’s embarrassing to be tricked out of your money, but there are always worse things that could happen. It’s just a learning experience. At least that’s how I look at it! For me Africa is the best continent to travel, both on the good and the bad days and scams can happen anywhere..
Mali is currently not in a good state to say the least, and there was a big terrorist attack not far from where I was on my second day here, which was really sad, but there are still lots of positive things about the country and the capital, Bamako.
Mali Travel Advisory – US Government
The US Government has put a 4 on their travel advisory level, which is highest danger, which means do NOT travel to Mali at the moment, because there have been some really ugly incidents recently with kidnappings of Westerners, bombings, massacres and more..
The Capital Bamako
Bamako is the capital of Mali and is also the largest city with 2 million people. The place is near the famous Niger River. Located between the Sahara to the north and the Gulf of Guinea to the south, Bamako is very hot on average all year round with the hottest months being March, April, and May.
I wasn’t freezing during my time in Bamako! +40°C was the standard
Is Bamako All Bad And Dangerous?
No, Bamako is not all bad and dangerous. There are so many reasons to visit this city also. I agree it’s maybe not the best time to go to Bamako right now, but the capital still has a lot to offer.
Seydou, one of my new friends in Bamako, Mali
The People
Mali is the 4th poorest country in the world (UN Human Development Index). In Bamako and in Mali in general people is primarily Muslim, but there are also significant populations of Christians and animists. French is the official language and Bambara is the most widely spoken.
Women wear long skirts but arms, chests and heads are regularly exposed.
Colorful Malian ladies in a village outside of Bamako
Malians are poor and most people live for less than 1 dollar a day. No medical care, little to no access to education, weak infrastructure – But sometimes when you know the feeling of having nothing, that’s when you become more open-minded, wanting to share more with people..
I had the most from people who had the least to be fair!
Bamako might have people who wants to take advantage of you, but is also full of incredible kindness, hospitality and curiosity.
Two Malian guys chiling at a local market, Bamako
One thing I found interesting here was the fact that a lot of families practice polygamy. A man will live with 2-3 wives in a large compound, a hut or a small house with all their children. In Senegal it was 4 out of 10 men, who lived as polygamists and here probably around the same if not more.
The Sights
Bamako is a sprawling city through which the river Niger flows. On one end of the city is a hill formation (supposed to be an extinct volcano?) on which the President’s Palace is located. You start driving up the hill, you leave the hustle and bustle of the city, enter into green surroundings and the roads are great.
Bamako is not a knock out sightseeing city. There is no must see location, but I still found some very cool places here and even though it’s a large, noisy, crowded city, it has its charms.
Monument de l”Independance, Bamako, Mali
I really liked to see the crazy and colorfol Bamako City Center market. A great, vibrant and hectic experience, even though a bus smashed really hard into a car few meters away from me. Scary! The bus drove away right after leaving the car smashed and the car owner shocked and speechless. Not cool…
3 Best Sights In Bamako
My favorite places in Bamako to visit are: Monument de l”Independance, Bamako Grand Mosque and of course the obvious Bamako highlight, Le Campement.
Morning swim at Le Campement. So cool and you have it all by yourself!
The way to Le Campement was great, if you choose the bumpy, little used but well signposted road taking you through rural areas directly to the foot of the 3rd bridge. You’ll pass trough rarely visited villages, beautiful green countryside and have some excellent views over fields, canals and mountain side villages.
Views over The Grand Mosque, Bamako
Having been all around the city of Bamako and the small neighborhoods, the city villages and their people are the real sights of this colorful city. In the suburbs you can see so many things, visit potters, blacksmiths, tailors and and colorful local markets or just grab a cup of tea and watch the daily life of a vibrant township pass by before your eyes. And if you stop for a look there, you will be met by big smiles and respect.
Bamako is all about the colors!
The Number 1 Thing About Bamako
It could have been the food, which is pretty amazing and cheap here, but IT’S NOT.
Malian Breakfast by the hands
I like the Malian breakfast, which was a bit different to my oatmeal with raisins back in Denmark, I really liked the extremely cheap grilled meat sticks you can get on every street corner too and then ofc. the Timbuktu Toukassou. Yummy!
Timbuktu Toukassou. So good!
But food wasn’t what I liked the most about Bamako, even though it was up there among the best things. The thing I liked the most, and I actually can’t remember one capital city I’ve been to around the World, where this thing was so common and easy: Free motorbike rides.
Free Motorbike Rides (THE BEST THING)
I’ve done at least 30+ free motorbike rides during my time in Bamako.
Free motorbike ride in Bamako
I quickly found out the traffic here was really bad quiet early during my stay and there were so many people on their motorbikes, who drove past the queues of the cars easily. So what I usually did to beat the traffic was just jumping on random motorbikes. How in the world was that possible?
Crossed the Niger River several times a day. That was so easy to do!
It was so super easy here actually. I just pointed with my hand in which direction I was going to go, and the drivers then nodded if they were going that way, or showed with their hand they were going in another direction. I usually didn’t wait for more than 30 seconds before having a ride ready and no one did ever ask me for money after I said: “Merci beaucoup pour le voyage de mon ami.” / Thanks for the ride my friend.
People in Bamako loves to help you with a free ride
Excuse Moi?
My French is extremely limited, so don’t be afraid to do the same. It’s all about the attitude.
Even when I came back from hiking in Malian mountains several hours outside of Bamako, I had free rides, after our bus crashed down in the middle of nowhere, which by the way happens way too often in West Africa.. I even had some gifts on the free motor bikes in Bamako and a lot of appreciation. You probably wouldn’t get that in Bangkok, Manila or in any major European city. In these places most people would look strange at you or ask you to pay as much as possible, worst case even try to scam you.
After an amazing time in Guinea Bissau, it was time for me to start a new adventure. Off to Guinea, which I only knew from a big ebola outbreak 3 years ago before.
Staying in the slums of Bissau, Guinea-Bissau
Interesting stay in Guinea-Bissau
I left from Bissau, the capital of Guinea-Bissau to Gabu, a city in the east of Guinea-Bissau and spend some time exploring Gabu, before making the decision to head to the bus station and see if there were any busses or taxis, which was going to Guinea in the afternoon.
I asked for Labe, a relatively big city in Guinea and a guy there took me to the ticket office in Gabu. I bought the ticket and was told to sit and wait with a bunch of other people on a small bench.
Waiting for the bus in Gabu, Guinea-Bissau. One guy was wearing football shoes and a shirt, love the combo!
Different prices at the bus station
All people paid 14.000 CFA, including myself, but I had to pay 3000 CFA extra, because of my small extra bag, eventhough all the local people carried many extra bags + a lot of other things from their home, without any extra fees.
Love Africa sometimes..
Anyway, I didn’t want to discuss that further with the ticket guy and I accepted it, because I thought I would be one of the last persons to join the bus, and that we were then ready to leave the place and go to Guinea, my country number 113.
But no. We waited for one hour, we waited for two.. We waited for three.. Nothing really happened.
We were 11 people sitting there waiting impatiently and I counted the seats in the mini bus to 13 seats, if everyone was sitting super close, so I hoped a solution was going to be found soon.
The Rastafarian Guy
A Rastafarian guy from Guinea, who showed me some weird bar photos on his phone from his time in Germany
I was small talking a bit with a Rastafarian Guinean guy, (he didn’t speak any English though,) but we went for a nice omelette sandwich together while waiting. Very popular in Guinea-Bissau! He showed me some weird photos too from Germany, where he went to a bar apparently!
Lack of English and lack of patience
Nobody in the Gabu bus station spoke English, but I tried to tell the ticket guy that there were only two free seats, but he started to say ‘tomorrow’ and signaled to me that we would probably first be able to go tomorrow instead of today, because the bus wasn’t full.
My general impression, after having traveled to many places in Africa, is that time is never a factor. I’m used to it, but to say the bus would first be able to leave tomorrow morning, because of 2 people missing pissed me off, especially after having waited for more than 3 hours in an insane heat.
I could see people were losing their patience too like me and I told the guy that we would maybe meet two persons on the way. He rejected me again.
We waited 30 minutes more..
Waiting for many hours to go to Guinea at the bus station in Gabu, Guinea-Bissau. The ticket guy to the right!
I then lost my temper and told him to give me back my overpaid money, and everyone at the station now had their eyes planted on me. I pointed out on the street and said I was going to find another solution.. He could understand my hand gestures and facial expression.
That’s when stuff got serious.
Leaving Gabu in a new bus
I could see he was now afraid of losing the 3000 CFA going directly to his pocket, and he said in a mix of Portuguese, French and English that I should wait 5 minutes and he would just go to the toilet.
When he came back, he had called someone else. That guy brought an even smaller, older and more crappy mini bus, with windows that couldn’t even close. Three people moved all of our luggage to the ‘new’ bus.
They put some fuel on it and a guy was trying to fix the brakes. After few minutes the ticket guy told us we were ready to go, looking at me directly. He smiled to me and I smiled back and we shaked hands and both laughed a bit. No bad feelings, I just love Africa sometimes! All of this for two free seats on the bus..
A beautiful girl waiting at the station in Gabu, Guinea-Bissau
Finally off to Guinea, my country number 113
When we got in the small mini bus with windows that couldn’t close, we were sitting there super close to each other and it was impossible to move. This was going to be a long drive! Everyone was smiling at me and greeting me, because people were happy to leave today and not tomorrow.
Right when we left the station, two local people were asking if the bus went to Labe, Guinea.. Really? So why did we need to change bus!? Anyways, in the bus with them too! The bus was absolutely packed now!
Some Of The Most Bumpy Roads Ever
We drove for hours on some of the most bumpy roads I’ve ever experienced driving on, even as an experienced African traveler, and then the Rastafarian guy told me that we were now at the border when it was late evening.
Me and the Rastafarian guy, both very tired!
We went out of the bus and there was this big lake we had to pass. We were standing in Guinea Bissau and on the other side of that lake was Guinea.
The big problem was there was no bridge.
I could see a small tree platform and some goats on the other side and nothing more, except for some pretty interesting observations in the water.. Crocodiles and other interesting stuff? Most possibly!
Standing in Guinea-Bissau, ready to cross the river to Guinea! Completely covered in dust, because the windows in the bus couldn’t close
We waited for three hours until night time, and then someone came to the tree platform on the Guinean side and brought it over to our side.
Passing the border on an old, shaky, tree platform
We then put the mini bus on the tree platform and me and 8 African guys had to pull a rope by hand power to get us over the river. We were all drained when we made it to the other side. Talk about an adventurous border crossing!
It was totally dark now on the other side and we went through 4 or 5 border stops, where we all had to get out of the bus each time, having our passports and documents checked, before we squeezed together again and continued on the dusty, narrow, bumpy African roads. I knocked my head into the windows several times and had to buy coffee on every stop we made, because sleeping on this route would leave you seriously damaged. And I hate coffee!
At around 3am in the night the Rastafarian guy, who apparently went to Germany, showed the pictures of him there to a lady in the bus and the lady didn’t believe him. They started to shout at each other for the next hours and everyone in the bus was suddenly taking part in the argument, except for me! Nuts!
Trying to stay positive in the drama bus
Good thing was the discussions helped me to stay awake. But damn, Guinean people can get angry, that’s a fact! Didn’t need to buy any coffee for these hours at least..
At 5 am it all culminated with a woman’s baby puking on my bag and on another Guinean guy, because of the crazy driving on the dust roads! The smell some African busses can have with lack of deo/perfume, motor oil and other ingrediens, just got even worse. When I arrived in Labe, Guinea at 10 in the morning, I was so super exhausted and relieved to have reached the destination.. It was great to get in a taxi!
When arriving in Labe, Guinea completely done with dust everywhere. I took a shared taxi to a guesthouse to sleep a bit!
But also happy to have taken part in such a cultural, adventurous, scary, off the beaten path bus ride from Guinea Bissau to Guinea, which I’m now thinking back on with a smile.
What a way to enter my country number 113!
Guinea
Here at the Kambadaga Falls in Guinea. One of the most stunning waterfalls I’ve ever seen!
Are you considering to visit Africa and maybe a little scared of the big continent?
I have spent a big part of my life on the African continent and it’s my favourite continent to travel, because it’s the 100% most adventurous.
Picture from my stay with the Banna Tribe in the Omo Valley, Ethiopia
Africa Feeling
I always felt a particular affection for Africa. Since childhood, I’ve been incredibly interested in its culture and history; I listen to African music daily (afro pop, bongo flavour) and have a big African bucket list and generally feel connected to this huge and complex continent. But the truth is, I did not meet many people who shared this interest. Most of my friends dreamed about places like Paris or New York, not remote African towns. Many tourists want to feel comfortable and it might be easier in most of the overcrowded touristy European cities, but for me the most unique travel experiences are found in Africa.
There are some countries in Africa you shouldn’t start with to gain experience in traveling Africa.
And then there’s Senegal
I recommend you to start your Africa adventure with Senegal, a country with no extreme weather conditions (only in few places), acceptable facilities and the most welcoming people. These are some of my travel memories to this country, including a few suggestions and advice to go backpacking Senegal.
Senegal is not a country to see, but rather to experience.
Dakar, Senegal
Useful Information
Languages: French and Wolof. Religion: mostly Muslim population (however, it feels like a “more open“ version of Islam, in which women have a fairly active role). Money: the unit of currency is the West African CFA franc (1 € = around 656 CFA). Weather: Senegal’s peak season goes from December to May when the weather is pleasant and warm. The rainy/wet season normally begins in July and ends in September. Temperatures are high in summer.
Senegal is a cheap country and you can go around 1 hour in taxi for 3000 CFA / 5 euros, so don’t go with anyone suggesting 10,000 CFA for a 15 minutes drive, just keep that in mind.. Taxi drivers can be douches in any country unfortunately!
But, Is it Safe to Travel to Senegal?
Unfortunately, Senegal has the stigma of insecurity and poverty as many other African countries. However, I must say during my time I spent in Senegal, I never felt the slightest threat. Obviously, bad things can happen anywhere, and you always need to be careful, watch your pockets and bags and use your common sense. I recommend not to bring anything of value you would be sad to lose, don’t carry too much cash and don’t walk alone at night in the suburbs, which I did anyways with no problem at all here!
A random guy took me to his family late at night in Zac Mbao, Senegal
Health
Make sure to get the Yellow Fever vaccination and to bring along the International certificate and proof of vaccination. They probably will not ask for it at the airport, but have it handy. It’s recommended to get vaccinated against Hepatitis A and B, Tetanus and Typhus and to take antimalarial medication.
I’m taking Vibradox malaria pills, which are actually the only malaria pills I don’t get a bad stomach with and I’m putting mosquito repellent on skin and clothes when the evening comes.
If you don’t want to take the Malaria prophylaxis, be very vigilant about not being bitten too much. A good mosquito net is key! Even if flats/hotels have their own, it is better to trust yours, with no holes.
A very good mosquito repellent did it for me though!
Backpacking Senegal: What to Visit
Dakar
The beauty of Senegal’s capital is not really in its architecture, the dusty streets or the roads collapsed by traffic: but rather in its atmosphere and cheerful people.
The best part of Dakar though is the smiling locals walk through the city wearing flashy clothes while causing a color explosion. Though it is worth a visit, the center of Dakar is definitely not the best place for a relaxing walk. In my experience, the best of Dakar is in the outskirts of the city and in the villages along the coast (like N’gor and Yoff).
N’gor, Senegal
Africa’s tallest statue
That being said, Dakar has Africa’s tallest statue made my North Korea architects, The African Renaissance Monument, which is ment to symbolize Africa’s rebirth, potential and liberation.
Africa’s tallest statue in Dakar, Senegal
A 49 meter tall bronze statue located on top of one of the twin hills known as Collines des Mamelles, which is pretty cool!
Getting asked by a Congolese family for a pic with their son at Africa’s Tallest Statue
Pink Lake (Lake Retba)
Less than an hour away from Dakar, there is an unusual lake that will surely catch your eye due to its vivid pink color: Lake Retba (or Lac Rosé). Its distinct color is caused by the Dunaliella salina algae, which is attracted by the lake’s high salt content. The algae produces a red pigment to absorb the sunlight while giving the lake its unique color. Since the algae which gives the lake its color is completely harmless to humans, swimming is possible.
When I was there it wasn’t that pink, because it depends on many factors to get this color, but it can look like this on some occasions
Pink Lake, Lake Retba, Senegal
Saint Louis
Saint Louis, the first French colony in Africa, is one of the most fascinating cities in Senegal. Located 260 km from Dakar, the heart of this old colonial city is on a narrow island over the river Senegal and linked to the African mainland by the bridge Faidherbe.
Saint Louis, Senegal
Lompoul Desert
Senegal isn’t all about mangroves and lagoons. If you venture south of St. Louis, you’ll eventually run into the Lompoul Desert. The orange-tinted dunes in the area are similar to what you’d fine in the Sahara. While there, you can take a hike over the dunes on foot or take it easy with the help of a camel.
Soft sand dunes in Lompoul Desert, Senegal
Villages visits
I was very impulsive in Senegal and went to many small villages by myself and always met Senegalese people who welcomed me to their home, eventhough my French is absolutely limited.
Staying with Amadou’s lovely family in village Tivaouane, Senegal
Language
If you can speak French, you will have no problem communicating in this country. If you don’t, remember the universal language in Senegal is the smile. You should also learn a few key phrases in Arabic and Wolof that you will hear all the time:
Salaam Aleikum (and the answer: Aleikum Saalam) > “peace be with you“
Nan ga deff? > “how are you?“, you will hear this all the time and you will have to respond:
Mahn gii fii > ‘I am fine“ / “I am here“
Jarrejeff > Thank you
Nookobokk > You’re welcome
Amul solo > No problem
Wow wow > Yes
Ded ett > No
Ded ett, merci > No, thank you
Alham doulilah > Thanks be to Allah
Insh allah > Allah willing
Degguma Wolof > I don’t speak Wolof
Wall painting in Dakar, Senegal
To conclude…
Having been all around Senegal from north, central to the south of Ziguinchor, the so-called “Gate of Africa” may not be the most beautiful place on earth or a holiday destination for those seeking comfort, but it has everything for a fascinating experience as a whole.
Inside the home of a family I stayed with in Senegal, Fun when they came in the living room!
Senegal is defined by its small details: the baobabs, the teranga (hospitality of its people) and the smiles of the children that you’ll meet, who will love to talk and play with the toubabs (white).
Taking two of my hosts kids to the beach for their first time with a French friend!
You will be captivated by the colorful pirogues of the fishermen, the flashy dresses of the women, the sounds of the djembe, the endless dancing nights, the mythical sept-places (and all the stories that will happen to you inside them) and the eternal African sunsets. Even the local bus ride can be fascinating!
Love this pic from the local bus in Dakar, Senegal
I know one Senegalese guy who moved to Europe in pursuit of financial happiness. He misses Senegal, he says Europe is cold and people are not happy. He is sad, because this is not like Senegal and he is already dreaming of coming back. To be honest, I understand him.
I will miss you Senegal ❤️
With my local friend Amadou and his son. Amazing hospitality!
The Faroese language isn’t widely spoken and not even Google Translate can help you in Faroe Islands.
It’s tradition that my dad, me and my uncle play a bit of football when we’re all together in Faroe Islands
Why Learn Some Faroese?
In general knowing a few words of the language of the country you’re visiting can really go a long way!
You’ll impress Faroese people if you know a bit of the rarely spoken language, eventhough most people can communicate in English or Danish most places here. Here are some of the key Faroese phrases that can help you in your travel to Faroe Islands, which I know will be soon of course!
The Iconic Kalsoy Lighthouse, Faroe Islands
Sometimes it can be a bit embarrassing to go to a café or something and realize that you don’t even know how to say “thank you” once you’ve purchased your lunch! So here are the basics!
Faroese Key Phrases
// Hi – Hey (pronunciation same as in English)
//Goodbye – Bei (pronunciation same as in English)
//Thank You – Takk “Tahk”
//How Are You? – Hvussu Hevur Tú Tað? “Kvossu Havur Tu Tehr”
//I’m Fine – Eg Havi Tað Gott “Eh Havur Tehr Gott”
//What’s Your Name?Hvussu Eitur Tú? “Kvossu Eiter Tu?”
//My Name Is Gustav –Eg Eiti Gustav “Eh Eide Gustav”
//Have A Nice Day – Hav Ein Góðan Dag “Hav Ein Godan Dakh”
Finally, maybe the most important phrase to learn in any language:
//One Beer – Eina Øl “Eye-nah Uhl”
Having most of my family on Faroe Islands, I know a bit more than this, but what about you? Do you have any other Faroese phrases that would be helpful for travelers? Leave them in the comments!
By clicking hereyou can find out why you should book your flight tickets to Faroe Islands immediately!
I have spent a big part of my childhood on Faroe Islands. I’ve been there 14 times in total and been to most of the major 18 Faroese islands, but there’s always a new adventure waiting in ‘Europe’s best kept secret.’
As a young kid on Faroe Islands
Even after having been to 100+ countries, Faroe Islands is still a very special place to me. Having Faroese roots, the nature and the fact that a big part of my family is living on the Faroe Islands, makes the country like a second home to me. I’m still fascinated every time I arrive in Vágar Airport and drive through the country’s incredible landscape, when I come back to visit my grandfather.
Gásadalur, Vágar, Faroe Islands
What is Faroe Islands?
The Faroe Islands is a self-governing archipelago with 50,000 people, part of the Kingdom of Denmark, but with its own flag, laws, government and passport.
It comprises 18 rocky, volcanic islands in the North Atlantic Ocean, connected by road tunnels, ferries, causeways and bridges. The islands’ mountains are characterised by steep cliffs, tall mountains, narrow fjords and grassy heathland with thousands of sheeps and seabirds.
The Faroe Islands are synonymous with fishing. With my father and big Faroese cousin in Torshavn, Faroe Islands
The Faroese language derives from Old Norse, which was spoken by the Norsemen who settled the islands 1200 years ago and is very different to the Danish language in Denmark.
There’s absolutely no chance of confusing the Faroe Islands with Denmark – or any other Scandinavian country, for that matter. It truly is a place that stands out all on its own.
1. The scenery
There are no arguments anyone can make that will convince me that the Faroe Islands don’t have some of the most stunning scenery in the world. It’s just a visually striking place, with green mountains and shaggy sheep; crashing waterfalls and colorful little villages.
Mikladalur, Kalsoy, Faroe IslandsMy dad and I walking around in Gjógv, Eysturoy, Faroe IslandsView from the small village Bøur, Vágar, Faroe Islands
2. Ease of travel
Yes, the Faroes are in the middle of the Atlantic ocean, but you can get easy flight connections these days from places like Copenhagen, Bergen, Reykjavik, and more. (I fly from Copenhagen every time and prefer flying Atlantic Airways.)
The weather can be dramatic here on Faroe Islands. Clear skies and then strong wind and heavy rain right after
When I was a kid, you couldn’t drive to most places, but you had to take ferries or cross mountains on foot, but now it’s incredibly easy to get around with a rental car. Signs are easy to read, tunnels and bridges connect the main islands and make travel times short, and roads are all paved and well-maintained. (Some roads are admittedly very narrow and winding, but the quality of them is still very good.)
Faroe Islands means “Sheep Islands.” There are more sheep in the country than people!
3. Incredibly welcoming people
In which other country in the world do people not lock their doors when they leave their home? And in which other country do you just walk in without knocking on the door when visiting family?
The last one is a bit too much for me, but it’s the truth of Faroe Islands. One of the safest countries on the planet and Faroese people are very welcoming and relaxed, and enjoy getting together and talk for hours. The Faroese people are hardy (you have to be when you live in a place with such changeable weather!) and hard-working, but also love good food and drink. They are also very passionate about their home.
Enjoying fish soup with my Faroese family in Runavik, Faroe Islands
Faroese people have an extremely strong family bond and they live very close to each other.
4. Puffins
The island of Mykines is only a 45-minute ferry ride from the island of Vagar, and in the summer the entire island is covered in birds – including thousands of puffins!
The Atlantic puffin is my favourite seabird. So awesome!
(And really, do you need any other reason to visit?)
The Faroe Islands don’t currently have that problem. Even though the landscapes are incredible, the fact that the country remain relatively obscure means that there aren’t really a ton of tourists there. I visited Faroe Islands in each of the last 4 years, and no matter where I go, I only share the views with a couple of other people. (Keep in mind that I usually go in May, and not in July/August where it is tourist season)
The small village of 64 people, Tjørnuvik, Faroe Islands
My Faroese grandfather always told me May is the best month to visit Faroe Islands (weather, tourists, beauty) and he knows better than anyone!
With my ‘abbi’ (grandfather) in Faroese. He spoke 7 languages fluently, but is now 86 years old!
There is nothing like a fresh sunny morning in the Faroe Islands during spring time.
If you want to visit a place that social media attention hasn’t ruined, head to the Faroe Islands. I don’t think you’ll be disappointed.
It’s easy to get confused by the many ‘7 Wonders of the World-lists’ out there. There are the 7 Ancient Wonders, 7 Natural Wonders, etc — but for my own personal record, I am only keeping track of the 7 New Wonders of the World.
I’ve been to 6 of 7 of the New Wonders of the World. Read on to hear about my experiences!
1. Taj Mahal, India
It’s very hard to choose a personal favourite, but Taj Mahal is for sure in my Top 2!
I loved it so much that I went to see the sunrise in the morning and then spent all day to see the sunset. The most impressive thing about the Taj is the absolute perfect symmetry that around 20,000 people built in the 17th century. You can notice the perfection and small details, when the sun is low in the sky, and the shadows are perfectly cast on the marble stone. It surely is the one of the most perfect buildings in the World and it deserves its name as the “Monument of Love.”
2. Great Wall of China, China
I visited the Great Wall of China on a two weeks visit to China in April/May 2019 and it didn’t disappoint!
I have technically visited China 4 times, two times Hong Kong and one time on a 24 hour transit, but this was my first visit to ‘The Great Wall of China’ and walking around here for hours was worth every second!
I went to one of the best preserved parts, called Mutianyu, and it was surprisingly quiet. I couldn’t imagine a better day at the wall with sunshine and almost zero people. One of the greatest sights in the World!
3. Colosseum, Italy
I’ve been to Rome 3 times and at my first 2 times here (2011 and 2013,) I didn’t take any pictures at the Colosseum! Pretty weird nowadays!?
I love Italy! I’ve been to Italy 8 times and 3 times in Rome, and every time I’ve been to Rome, I went to the Colosseum. My father is a big fan of the movie ‘Gladiator’, and we have watched the movie countless times and to be fair I always had a fascination of the gladiatorial universe. The Colosseum is the largest amphitheater (meaning “theatre in the round”) in the World and I can only imagine the bloody battles and heads that were taken off over the years inside this mecca venue.
4. The Lost City of Petra, Jordan
I visited the Lost City of Petra in 2016 and it blew my mind. My personal favourite!
My friend and I arrived super early in the morning to Petra and were the first two persons to enter the lost city, which is 2,400 year old. We walked through the huge, narrow canyons with carved sandstone cliffs and out of a sudden we were standing in front of the 45m-high Al Khazneh temple (called “The Treasury,“) carved into the red mountain rock. Incredible! The whole area was just fascinating and we enjoyed the walk out to the legendary Monastery temple, hidden high in the hill as well. The Lost City of Petra is my favourite of the New Seven Wonders of the World. No visit to Jordan is complete without visiting Petra!
5. Christ The Redeemer, Brazil
I went to Christ Redeemer, Rio de Janeiro, in April 2016 in the end of an epic 3 weeks trip through Brazil.
I have mixed feelings about Rio De Janeiro, but Christ Redeemer was incredible to experience!
The massive Christ statue stands tall on the peak of the Corcovado mountains, overlooking the entire city of Rio. The open arms of Christ symbolize Christianity all over the world and the welcoming culture of Rio. It has become an icon of Brazil since it was constructed in the 1920s.
6. Chitzen Itza, Mexico
I went to Chitzen Itza, Mexico in February 2019 in an amazing 2 weeks trip to Mexico.
Unfortunately you aren’t allowed to climb up the top of the pyramid anymore, but I did put my hand on the Chitzen Itza anyway. Breathtaking city that the Mayans built for more than 1,000 years ago and the views all around this place are tremendous.
7. Machu Picchu, Peru
I haven’t been to Machu Picchu yet, but I can’t wait to go in the beginning of 2020, where I will do a South America trip again! Will you be around?
Not on the list. Why?
Great Pyramid of Giza, Egypt
I went to the Great Pyramid of Giza in 2013 and this photo doesn’t justify the beauty of this place!
NOT on the list, but Great Pyramid of Giza in Egypt should definitely be. Its ancient engineering feats are so impressive that even today scientists can’t be sure how the pyramids were built. Another amazing treasure.
That’s all from me….
How many of the ‘7 New Wonders of The World’ have you been to? 1.Taj Mahal, 2. Great Wall of China, 3. Colosseum, 4. Petra, 5. Christ Redeemer, 6. Chitzen Itza, 7. Machu Picchu..
I’ve been to Rome 3 times and these are my Favourite Things to do in the Italian capital!
1: Hang Out in the Pantheon
Pantheon looks today – inside and out – much the way it has looked for nearly 2,000 years. These marble floors you’re walking on? Yeah, people have been walking on them for two thousand years.
The Pantheon in Rome is, hands down, my favorite building in the city. The Pantheon still manages to stand out in a city that is simply replete with important historic buildings and monuments.
Pantheon, Rome
2: Eat Something Typically Roman
I love trying out different pizzas and Rome is the place to do it!
Rome is THE place to eat a lot of pizza!
Shops, pizzerias, takeaways, and restaurants all serve you some of the tastiest pizzas in the World and if you search well you can easily find pizza to low price with high quality.
One of my favourite places for pizza is ‘Pizza E Mozzarella,’ close to Trevi Fountain. The restaurant doesn’t look as much from outside, but the pizzas are absolutely incredible. Authentic Italian style, very tasty and fresh and the location is right in the centre of Rome. The bruschetta is good too.
Very affordable prices with a generous and nice owner! Check it out when in Rome!
Other common Roman dishes, which you may be familiar with from restaurants outside Italy, but you should try in the original place where they come from, are bucatini all’amatriciana (a tomato sauce cooked with onion and a fatty pork called guanciale) and spaghetti alla carbonara (the sauce is made from egg yolks, pecorino romano, and pancetta). Yummy!
3: Get a Tour of Vatican City
While Vatican City is its own independent city-state (and country), no one only visits Vatican City without visiting Rome as well. For most travelers, touring the Vatican is a one day trip from Rome, and that’s exactly what I suggest when people ask me how much time they should spend in Vatican City.
Gustav in Vatican City, 2019
I go to The Vatican every time I go to Rome, because it’s such a cool place with breathtaking sights and spectacular artworks. And how cool is it to have a country inside of a city?!
Furthermore is St. Peter’s Basilic the most beautiful church I’ve ever seen from inside and it basically makes all other churches look average compared to it.
If you want to visit St. Peter’s Basilica, you can do it for free, but you’ll usually have to wait a lot of hours, because the queues are long and slow. The second option is you can pay for the fast track access with a guide for around $30, which my friend and I did back in 2013 and it was certainly worth it.
Inside St. Peter’s Basilica in 2013 in The Vatican
If you are in Rome for a short time, you might consider skipping the line, so you can hit up some of the other main attractions!
PS. The dress code is strictly enforced at St Peter’s Basilica.Men must wear long trousers (no shorts) and cover their shoulders, women must not have either bare shoulders or skirts shorter than knee length.
4. Do Some People-Watching at the Trevi Fountain
Trevi Fountain is the largest Baroque fountain in Rome and also the most famous one.
Trevi Fountain is the most beautiful and most spectacular fountain in Rome. @gustavrosted
I admit that the Trevi Fountain is seriously touristy, and can be kind of a pain in the height of the tourist season because of the crowds. You can go early morning or in low-season to avoid most tourists.
After throwing your coin in the water (right hand over left shoulder, remember!), it can be a lot of fun watching other people taking pictures and making silly videos. Just relax, hang out, and watch the throngs of people repeating the same ritual over and over again. It gets pretty amusing, actually – especially when the designated photographer or videographer goofs up and the whole process has to be repeated (there goes another euro!).
Remember Trevi Fountain has garnered its worldwide fame because of its beauty and it is a must see site in every tourist’s route once in Rome. Beautiful place!
5. Visit Colosseum
One of the seven Wonders of the World. This mighty structure is one of the most renowned and iconic landmarks in the world and a trip to Rome would not be complete without visiting the Colosseum.
Great Colosseum, Rome, Italy. Love taking the Gladiator’s Entrance, pretending I’m Russell Crowe!
The Colosseum was constructed between 70-80 AD and at its peak was estimated to hold 80,000 spectators. I’ve watched ‘Gladiator’ countless times with my dad and admit I have a soft spot for this place.
Located to the south west of the main terminus train station, the Colosseum is easily accessible and has a metro station in close proximity, called Colosseo.
Check this famous structure from all angles, and ensure that you brave the queues and step inside to truly appreciate the enormity of this ancient place of celebration. Just like a Gladiator!
Unstoppable trio.. Rome, one of the best cities in Europe
Not following these rules may well get you or your guide arrested or killed in North Korea, so pay close attention.
1: Don’t call the country North Korea
Referring to the nation as the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea, Korea or DPRK, will help to keep you out of trouble, while you’re on the inside of the country.
2: “If you can’t say something nice, don’t say nothing at all.”
Don’t speak negatively about the country, its people, or its leaders. This is an major offence and has landed tourists in hot water, such as being sentenced to hard labor.
Don’t zoom in on pictures of ex-leaders or Kim Jong Un. He is the Supreme Leader and is literally like a God in North Korea. You have to respect him at all times, so absolutely no memes or jokes about him.
Even if you’re throwing a newspaper in the trash bin with him on the front page, it can be seen as a big offence! Forget all about folding a newspaper in two with Kim Jong Un getting folded.. In that case you have to fold it in 3, so that the Leader isn’t folded! I’m not joking, this is actually very useful knowledge.
You could get in big trouble by not doing this.
The Supreme Leader, Kim Jong Un and his father Kim Jong-il who was the second leader of North Korea
3: Prohibited items
The following items are prohibited in North Korea:
– Religious material – Pornographic material – Political material – Travel guides
You can bring in your laptop, tablet, camera and cell phone. Even though telecommunications are tightly controlled in North Korea and internet is close to non-existing!
Don’t pack a lot of stuff for your trip, because all electronics – not to mention your browsing history – may be inspected by customs officials. A good advice is to play with open cards and take out all electronics from your bag before the screening, it shows the military you have nothing to hide!
4: Photography
North Korean government authorities may view taking unauthorized pictures as espionage, and could confiscate cameras, film and/or detain the photographer. This includes photographs of airports, government buildings, construction sites, military infrastructure, transport hubs or anything which isn’t considered a tourism location.
I took a lot of pictures/video clips, but respected the above mentioned rules, so didn’t have any problems.
Make sure you’re not filming scenes of poverty or other situations that may cause a negative impression of the DPRK. To be fair you won’t see a lot of extreme poverty in DPRK, because they have no taxes and free housing.
Socialist fairyland. Officially, there are no taxes in North Korea and free housing. Far from perfect though!
Judge the situation before taking photographs in the DPRK, including of officials, soldiers or other people.
Drones are definitely a no-go. You won’t be allowed to bring a drone on the inside.
5: LGBTQ
While same sex relationships aren’t illegal in North Korea, authorities generally don’t accept them. It’s important for LGBTQ travelers to remain discreet at all times.
6: Don’t discuss or practice your religious beliefs.
North Korea is an atheist state that restricts public religion. Participating in unsanctioned religious activities such as publicly praying or toting around a Bible is a sure-fire way to get arrested, detained, or expelled from the state.
No cars in Kaesong in the south of North Korea. Like going 50 years back in time
7: Don’t break the rules.
Breaking a rule of the tour will not only put your life in danger, but will also put your guide at risk. He or she will face imprisonment and even torture for assisting your attempts at alleged espionage. Follow my 7 rules and do not take the rules lightly. If you want to break the rules, North Korea is probably not the right travel destination for you.
8: Vacations abroad
North Koreans are not allowed to go for vacations abroad. This is a violation ofhuman rights, but the people of North Korea are probably unaware of this fact. So know this before you’re trying to get your North Korean citizenship!
About to go play volleyball with locals in North Korea
If you happen to be in North Korea during a national day or festival event like me, locals tend to be more at ease. Like in any culture, celebration, good food and beverages always help break the ice.
I was super lucky attending the May Day celebrations, where I could walk totally freely around myself, get in contact with many locals through sports and even joined a local picnic with karaoke out in the woods!
Absolutely special, but extremely rare you’ll have time on your own in North Korea!
Walking around freely in Pyongyang, North Korea during the May Day Celebrations
Please remember to follow these rules, this is not just any country.. But it surely is a special one.
