Security, Entry requirements, and Identification

Security is a very important point. Serious security issues and violent crimes are unlikely, though not unheard of, in Senegal. You will be with us most of the time, and there shouldn't be any problems. However, if you find yourself on your own, or want to venture off by yourself, there are some important things to be aware of. Even if you are in a group, you could become a victim of petty theft. This could be stealing jewelry (ripping chains off your neck or cutting a watch off your wrist) or pickpocketing you (last weekend, I was with Jeanne and Fatim and someone tried to pickpocket me - but they got nothing because I was prepared knowing that I was in an area susceptible to such crime).

The State Department has put together the following which is generic for most countries and it looks pretty applicable to Senegal. Have a look at it.

http://travel.state.gov/travel/tips/safety/safety_1747.html

Some important things to take note:

• don't contradict what I have already communicated to you, i.e. don't bring travelers checks
• do be careful about where you take photos
• do take note on what to take and what to leave behind
• do take note on Safety in the Streets
• do take the time to register on-line. If you lose your passport or anything, I think this could be useful

For Senegal specifically, the State Department posts the following:

http://travel.state.gov/travel/cis_pa_tw/cis/cis_1013.html

I would suggest that you print out the first page of this document and carry it to the airport. Though the airline should know it already, I was talking with some people and Delta is not always aware of this point: You DO NOT NEED A VISA IN SENEGAL for a visit less than 3 months.

Also worth noting in the Senegal specific concerns is that you should carry identification with you at all times. This means a copy of your passport. Please make a copy and put a copy of your passport in your wallet before coming here. Jeanne's father is a former Chief of Police and has gotten a friend of mine of trouble once for this matter, but it is better that we just have the correct papers if ever asked.