Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Overt displays of affection - whether the couple is of the same or opposite sex - are con-
sidered to be culturally inappropriate.
Insurance
A travel-insurance policy to cover theft, loss and medical problems is essential. Some
policies specifically exclude dangerous activities, which can include scuba-diving, motor-
cycling or even trekking.
Check that the policy covers an emergency flight home. This is an important considera-
tion for Madagascar, given the cost of air tickets to most destinations.
For more advice about health-insurance policies,
Click here
.
Worldwide travel insurance is available at
www.lonelyplanet.com/travel_services
. You
can buy, extend and claim online anytime - even if you're already on the road.
Internet Access
»Internet cafes can be found in all major towns and cities.
»Anincreasing number ofhotels, including budget andmidrange places, have compliment-
ary wi-fi.
»Connection speeds vary from pretty good to woefully slow.
»Prices range from Ar30 to Ar100 per minute.
PRACTICALITIES
»Madagascar is three hours ahead of GMT; there is no daylight saving.
»The main French-language newspapers are
Midi Madagasikara, Madagascar
Tribune
and
L'Express de Madagascar
.
»Madagascar TV stations include the state-run TVM (TV Malagasy) as well as
the private channels MATV, RTA and MBS TV.
»Madagascar uses the metric system.
Legal Matters
Malagasy authorities take sex tourism very seriously - offenders risk five to 10 years in jail
and forced labour; sentences are particularly severe when minors are affected.
The use and possession of marijuana and other recreational drugs is illegal in Madagas-
car, including the stimulant
khat
(even though the latter is widely and openly consumed in
the north;
Click here
)
.
If you are arrested, ask to see a representative of your country.
