Libya is an exotic location known for its exquisite places and culture. Libya is located on the coast of North Africa. It is best known for the splendid Mediterranean’s richest store of Rome and Greek cities. It is a place where the echoes of historical reflections reverberate.

A great escape in the desert, Libya is quite prominent for grandiose and accessible desert record; the Sahara overwhelms more than 90% of the country. Libya is the fourth largest country on the continent and shares borders with Egypt in the east, Sudan in the southwest, Niger in the south, Algeria in the west and Tunisia in the northwest.

Facts about Libya

Population:  In 2006, the population was estimated at 5.9 million people.  The population density is 3.3 per sq km.

Capital:  The capital city is Tripoli (Tarabulus) with an estimated population of 2 million.

Official Language: The main language of Libya is Arabic but in the southern desert regions, you may find some Berber.  English is becoming more common, especially in the urban areas amoung young people and tourist specific establishments.

Government: Jamahiriya (state of the masses). Libya gained its independence from Italy in 1951.

Head of State: The leader of Libya is Muammar Gaddafi and he has been in power since the revolution in 1969.

Religion:  Islam

Climate Conditions: The climate in Libya witnesses marked seasonal fluctuations; the temperature in summers may range from 40.6 C to 46.0 C and rainfall may differ from region to region.

Health Issues: Traveling to Libya is liberated from any major health risks but for one who is coming from an infected place, a yellow fever vaccination certificate may be required. It is receommended that travelers take vaccinations for Hepatitis A and Typhoid. The services of health in Libya are fundamental and travelers are advised to possess complete health insurance. In certain parts of the country, healthcare amenities are very rare so, people are recommended to keep their own medication with them. The tap water in Libya is chlorinated but it is suggested that travelers use bottled water.

Getting Around: Buses and car rentals are easily accessible to help travelers visit most places and sites. Driving into desert places requires a Desert Pass and the key urban centers are linked via airplane.

Protection: Libya is considered a safe country in which to travel but travelers are advised to take all necessary precautions; visitors are not permitted to travel near the border and into the internal areas of the country without the permission of higher authorities.

Traditions: The prominent religion of Libya is Islam and all visitors are required to pay homage to all the customs. The women are not allowed to attend public gatherings and they should wear reticent dresses. Issues like homosexuality and extra- marital affairs are prohibited in all cases. Proper permissions have to be taken for clicking photos of a some objects, particularly military places.

Communication: The international calling code for Libya is +218 and the outgoing code is 00. Several internet service providers are accessible in Tripoli. The service of mobile phones is available and they work on GSM 800 and 1800 networks.

Electricity:  The voltage used in Libya is 127/230 volts AC, 50Hz. The outlets used are European-style with two circular metal pins.