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Mali

Overview of Mali

Great Mosque of Djenné
Photo credit: Jean Louis Potier
Mali, one of the poorest countries in the world, is rich in wonder, offering some of Africa's most fascinating cultural sites and scenery. The landlocked Republic is the largest country in West Africa, surrounded by seven other states and crisscrossed by the great Niger River.

The country's best-known city is the fabled Timbuktu, home to one of the oldest universities in the world. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Timbuktu is well worth a visit to explore the birthplace of advanced mathematics and astronomy. In ancient times this city was the powerful centre of Mali's Mandinka Empire. Mali's empire lost power in the 16th century as the trans-Saharan caravan trading routes were replaced by European sea traders. Imperial power in Mali was substituted by French colonialism and ultimately, in 1960, independence, which has failed to bring prosperity. The Niger River is now the centre of industry and commerce, vital for the livelihood of a nation whose majority are poor farmers and fishermen.

Mali is a perfect holiday destination for travelers looking for an 'off the beaten track' experience. From camel treks through desert landscapes, to hikes along the Bandiagara Escarpment where the Dogon people have carved their homes from the mountain, Mali offers many unique sensations. Visit the medieval city of Djenne to marvel at the exquisite mosque, the largest mud building in the world and centre of the country's predominant Islamic faith. Master the skill of bartering in the Bamako City Centre Market or explore some of the capital's worthwhile museums. Many visitors opt for the lively town of Mopti, built on three islands, where the river market that brings in goods from along the Niger bursts with music, arts, and crafts.

The name Timbuktu has long been colloquially used in English to denote remoteness. However, a trip to Mali today is certainly not a dead end, but rather an intriguing journey of discovery.

map of Mali


Key Facts

Language:
French is the official language in Mali, but Bambara is spoken by 80 percent of the population. Numerous other African languages are also spoken. Outside the bigger towns few people speak French, and hardly anyone speaks English.
Passport/Visa:

Most foreign passengers require a visa to enter Mali, and sometimes these visas can be gained on arrival. Visitors are encouraged to contact their nearest Malian embassy or consulate to confirm their visa/entry requirements. Note that a yellow fever vaccination certificate is required to enter Mali for all travellers arriving from an infected area. It is highly recommended that visitors' passports have at least six months' validity remaining after the intended date of departure from their travel destination. Immigration officials often apply different rules to those stated by travel agents and official sources.

Currency:

The official currency in Mali is the West African CFA Franc (XOF), which is divided into 100 centimes. The CFA franc is tied to the Euro. Foreign currency can be exchanged at banks in Bamako. The Euro is the easiest currency to exchange. Some major credit cards, most reliably Visa, are accepted in some hotels and restaurants in the capital, but credit cards in general are not widely used in Mali.

Electricity:
Electrical current is 220 volts, 50Hz. Plugs are most commonly of the round, two-pin variety.

Travel to Mali

Climate in Mali

Mali's climate is hot and dry in the northern Sahara zone, north of the Niger River, and hot and humid in the subtropical south of the country. Rainfall varies throughout the country, varying from a virtual absence of rain in the desert north to a rainy season lasting for about five months from June to October in the south. The middle section of the country experiences rainfall between June and August. The dry season is from November to May, with cooler temperatures between November and February that becomes cold at night in the north. The most uncomfortable time to visit is from April to June, with extreme heat, and in December when the hot, dry Harmattan wind blows. Temperatures average 86F (30C).

Health Notes when travelling to Mali

All visitors to Mali are required to have a vaccination certificate for yellow fever. It is also recommended that precautions against meningitis (particularly if travelling between February and April), malaria, and cholera be taken, and that all eligible travelers should be up to date with their COVID-19 vaccines.

Bottled water is available and recommended. If not available, visitors should ensure that water is boiled and they should avoid ice in drinks. Food should be thoroughly cooked. Medical facilities are limited, especially outside of Bamako, and basic medicines might not be available. Travellers are advised to bring a personal supply of medicines with them. Comprehensive medical insurance is essential; serious medical problems will require air evacuation outside of the country.

Safety Notes when travelling to Mali

Tourists should avoid travelling to the provinces of Timbuktu (Tombouctou), Gao, Kidal and Mopti, as well as parts of Kayes, Segou and Koulikoro, as there has been an increasing number of inter and intra-communal security incidents. Bandits and smugglers pose a risk along Mali's northern borders, particularly after dark.

Customs in Mali

Mali is a Muslim country and visitors should respect the local culture by dressing modestly (especially women) and asking people before taking their photographs. Religious customs should be respected, particularly during the month of Ramadan when eating, drinking, and smoking during daylight hours should be discreet as it is forbidden by the Muslim culture. Homosexuality is frowned upon. Generally direct eye contact is considered rude. Aim for indirect eye contact.

Duty Free in Mali

There is free import of 1,000 cigarettes or 250 cigars or 2kg of tobacco, 2 bottles of alcohol, and perfume for personal use. Sporting guns are allowed as long as authorisation from the Customs Department in Bamako is acquired within 24 hours of arrival.

Doing Business in Mali

French is the principal language of business in Mali. Business is conducted somewhat formally, but due to the heat, lightweight suits are worn for important meetings and more casual attire for regular meetings. One should use the French titles of Monsieur and Madame when meeting and greeting. Women, in particular should dress conservatively. Business hours are usually from 7.30am to 4pm Monday to Thursday; 7.30am to 12.30pm and 2.30pm to 5.30pm on Fridays to allow for mosque.

Communication in Mali

The international dialling code for Mali is +223. The outgoing code is 00 followed by the relevant country code (e.g. 0027 for South Africa). Some hotels offer internet access and roaming agreements exist with several international mobile phone companies.

Tipping in Mali

Tipping is not required in Mali, but is an expression of respect as well as for rewarding good service.

Passport/Visa Note

Most foreign passengers require a visa to enter Mali, and sometimes these visas can be gained on arrival. Visitors are encouraged to contact their nearest Malian embassy or consulate to confirm their visa/entry requirements. Note that a yellow fever vaccination certificate is required to enter Mali for all travellers arriving from an infected area. It is highly recommended that visitors' passports have at least six months' validity remaining after the intended date of departure from their travel destination. Immigration officials often apply different rules to those stated by travel agents and official sources.

Entry Requirements

Entry requirements for Americans:

US citizens must have a passport that is valid upon their arrival in Mali. A visa is required.

Entry requirements for Canadians:

Canadian citizens must have a passport that is valid upon their arrival in Mali. A visa is required.

Entry requirements for UK nationals:

British citizens must have a passport that is valid upon their arrival in Mali. A visa is required.

Entry requirements for Australians:

Australian citizens must have a passport that is valid upon their arrival in Mali. A visa is required.

Entry requirements for Irish nationals:

Irish citizens must have a passport that is valid upon their arrival in Mali. A visa is required.

Entry requirements for New Zealanders:

New Zealand citizens must have a passport that is valid upon their arrival in Mali. A visa is required.

Entry requirements for South Africans:

South African citizens must have a passport that is valid upon their arrival in Mali. A visa is required.

Tourist Offices

Mali Tourist Office, Bamako: +223 20 22 5673

Mali Embassies

In the United States:

Mali Embassy, Washington DC, United States: +1 202 332 2249.

In Canada:

Mali Embassy, Ottawa, Canada: +1 613 232 1501.

In the United Kingdom:

Mali Embassy, Brussels, Belgium (also responsible for Britain): +322 345 74 32.

In Australia:

Mali Embassy, Tokyo, Japan (also responsible for Australia): +81 3 5447 6881.

In New Zealand:

Mali Embassy, Tokyo, Japan (also responsibe for New Zealand): +81 3 5447 6881.

In South Africa:

Mali Embassy, Pretoria, South Africa: +27 12 342 7464.

Foreign Embassies in Mali

American Embassy

United States Embassy, Bamako: +223 20 70 2300.

Canadian Embassy

Canadian Embassy, Bamako (also responsible for Australia): +223 20 21 2236.

British Embassy

British Embassy, Bamako: +223 2021 3412.

South African Embassy

South African Embassy, Bamako: +223 20 29 2925.

Travel Advisories

Health Information for Travelers to Mali

Content source: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

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Vaccines and Medicines

Check the vaccines and medicines list and visit your doctor (ideally, 4-6 weeks) before your trip to get vaccines or medicines you may need.

 

  Find Out Why Protect Yourself

All travelers

You should be up to date on routine vaccinations while traveling to any destination. Some vaccines may also be required for travel.

Routine vaccines

Make sure you are up-to-date on routine vaccines before every trip. These vaccines include measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine, diphtheria-tetanus-pertussis vaccine, varicella (chickenpox) vaccine, polio vaccine, and your yearly flu shot.

get_vaccinated hygiene
Yellow Fever

Health Recommendation: Yellow fever is a risk in Mali, so CDC recommends yellow fever vaccine for travelers 9 months of age or older visiting areas south of the Sahara Desert (see map - Yellow fever vaccine recommendations in Africa).

Country entry requirement: The government of Mali requires proof of yellow fever vaccination for all travelers, except infants.

See more information on yellow fever recommendations and requirements for Mali.

get_vaccinated avoid_insects

Most travelers

Get travel vaccines and medicines because there is a risk of these diseases in the country you are visiting.

Hepatitis A

CDC recommends this vaccine because you can get hepatitis A through contaminated food or water in Mali, regardless of where you are eating or staying.

get_vaccinated eat_drink
Malaria

You will need to take prescription medicine before, during, and after your trip to prevent malaria. Your doctor can help you decide which medicine is right for you, and also talk to you about other steps you can take to prevent malaria. See more detailed information about malaria in Mali.

antimalarial_meds avoid_insects
Typhoid

You can get typhoid through contaminated food or water in Mali. CDC recommends this vaccine for most travelers, especially if you are staying with friends or relatives, visiting smaller cities or rural areas, or if you are an adventurous eater.

get_vaccinated eat_drink

Some travelers

Ask your doctor what vaccines and medicines you need based on where you are going, how long you are staying, what you will be doing, and if you are traveling from a country other than the US.

Hepatitis B

You can get hepatitis B through sexual contact, contaminated needles, and blood products, so CDC recommends this vaccine if you might have sex with a new partner, get a tattoo or piercing, or have any medical procedures.

get_vaccinated avoid_body_fluids avoid-non-sterile-equipment
Meningitis (Meningococcal disease)

CDC recommends this vaccine if you plan to visit parts of Mali located in the meningitis belt during the dry season (December–June), when the disease is most common.

get_vaccinated hygiene
Rabies

Rabies can be found in dogs, bats, and other mammals in Mali, so CDC recommends this vaccine for the following groups:

  • Travelers involved in outdoor and other activities (such as camping, hiking, biking, adventure travel, and caving) that put them at risk for animal bites.
  • People who will be working with or around animals (such as veterinarians, wildlife professionals, and researchers).
  • People who are taking long trips or moving to Mali
  • Children, because they tend to play with animals, might not report bites, and are more likely to have animal bites on their head and neck.
get_vaccinated animals hygiene

All travelers

You should be up to date on routine vaccinations while traveling to any destination. Some vaccines may also be required for travel.

get_vaccinated hygiene
Routine vaccines

Make sure you are up-to-date on routine vaccines before every trip. These vaccines include measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine, diphtheria-tetanus-pertussis vaccine, varicella (chickenpox) vaccine, polio vaccine, and your yearly flu shot.

get_vaccinated avoid_insects
Yellow Fever

Health Recommendation: Yellow fever is a risk in Mali, so CDC recommends yellow fever vaccine for travelers 9 months of age or older visiting areas south of the Sahara Desert (see map - Yellow fever vaccine recommendations in Africa).

Country entry requirement: The government of Mali requires proof of yellow fever vaccination for all travelers, except infants.

See more information on yellow fever recommendations and requirements for Mali.

Most travelers

Get travel vaccines and medicines because there is a risk of these diseases in the country you are visiting.

get_vaccinated eat_drink
Hepatitis A

CDC recommends this vaccine because you can get hepatitis A through contaminated food or water in Mali, regardless of where you are eating or staying.

antimalarial_meds avoid_insects
Malaria

You will need to take prescription medicine before, during, and after your trip to prevent malaria. Your doctor can help you decide which medicine is right for you, and also talk to you about other steps you can take to prevent malaria. See more detailed information about malaria in Mali.

get_vaccinated eat_drink
Typhoid

You can get typhoid through contaminated food or water in Mali. CDC recommends this vaccine for most travelers, especially if you are staying with friends or relatives, visiting smaller cities or rural areas, or if you are an adventurous eater.

Some travelers

Ask your doctor what vaccines and medicines you need based on where you are going, how long you are staying, what you will be doing, and if you are traveling from a country other than the US.

get_vaccinated avoid_body_fluids avoid-non-sterile-equipment
Hepatitis B

You can get hepatitis B through sexual contact, contaminated needles, and blood products, so CDC recommends this vaccine if you might have sex with a new partner, get a tattoo or piercing, or have any medical procedures.

get_vaccinated hygiene
Meningitis (Meningococcal disease)

CDC recommends this vaccine if you plan to visit parts of Mali located in the meningitis belt during the dry season (December–June), when the disease is most common.

get_vaccinated animals hygiene
Rabies

Rabies can be found in dogs, bats, and other mammals in Mali, so CDC recommends this vaccine for the following groups:

  • Travelers involved in outdoor and other activities (such as camping, hiking, biking, adventure travel, and caving) that put them at risk for animal bites.
  • People who will be working with or around animals (such as veterinarians, wildlife professionals, and researchers).
  • People who are taking long trips or moving to Mali
  • Children, because they tend to play with animals, might not report bites, and are more likely to have animal bites on their head and neck.
Key
  • Get vaccinated
  • Take antimalarial meds
  • Eat and drink safely
  • Prevent bug bites
  • Keep away from animals
  • Reduce your exposure to germs
  • Avoid sharing body fluids
  • Avoid non-sterile medical or cosmetic equipment

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Note: Zika is a risk in Mali. Zika infection during pregnancy can cause serious birth defects. Therefore, pregnant women should not travel to Mali. Partners of pregnant women and couples planning pregnancy should know the possible risks to pregnancy and take preventive steps (more information).

 

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Stay Healthy and Safe

Learn actions you can take to stay healthy and safe on your trip. Vaccines cannot protect you from many diseases in Mali, so your behaviors are important.

 

Eat and drink safely

Unclean food and water can cause travelers' diarrhea and other diseases. Reduce your risk by sticking to safe food and water habits.

Eat
  • Food that is cooked and served hot
  • Hard-cooked eggs
  • Fruits and vegetables you have washed in clean water or peeled yourself
  • Pasteurized dairy products
Don't Eat
  • Food served at room temperature
  • Food from street vendors
  • Raw or soft-cooked (runny) eggs
  • Raw or undercooked (rare) meat or fish
  • Unwashed or unpeeled raw fruits and vegetables
  • Unpasteurized dairy products
  • ”Bushmeat” (monkeys, bats, or other wild game)
Drink
  • Bottled water that is sealed
  • Water that has been disinfected
  • Ice made with bottled or disinfected water
  • Carbonated drinks
  • Hot coffee or tea
  • Pasteurized milk
Don’t Drink
  • Tap or well water
  • Ice made with tap or well water
  • Drinks made with tap or well water (such as reconstituted juice)
  • Unpasteurized milk
Take Medicine

Talk with your doctor about taking prescription or over-the-counter drugs with you on your trip in case you get sick.

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Prevent bug bites

Bugs (like mosquitoes, ticks, and fleas) can spread a number of diseases in Mali. Many of these diseases cannot be prevented with a vaccine or medicine. You can reduce your risk by taking steps to prevent bug bites.

What can I do to prevent bug bites?
  • Cover exposed skin by wearing long-sleeved shirts, long pants, and hats.
  • Use an appropriate insect repellent (see below).
  • Use permethrin-treated clothing and gear (such as boots, pants, socks, and tents). Do not use permethrin directly on skin.
  • Stay and sleep in air-conditioned or screened rooms.
  • Use a bed net if the area where you are sleeping is exposed to the outdoors.
What type of insect repellent should I use?
  • FOR PROTECTION AGAINST TICKS AND MOSQUITOES: Use a repellent that contains 20% or more DEET for protection that lasts up to several hours.
  • FOR PROTECTION AGAINST MOSQUITOES ONLY: Products with one of the following active ingredients can also help prevent mosquito bites. Higher percentages of active ingredient provide longer protection.
    • DEET
    • Picaridin (also known as KBR 3023, Bayrepel, and icaridin)
    • Oil of lemon eucalyptus (OLE) or PMD
    • IR3535
  • Always use insect repellent as directed.
What should I do if I am bitten by bugs?
  • Avoid scratching bug bites, and apply hydrocortisone cream or calamine lotion to reduce the itching.
  • Check your entire body for ticks after outdoor activity. Be sure to remove ticks properly.
What can I do to avoid bed bugs?

Although bed bugs do not carry disease, they are an annoyance. See our information page about avoiding bug bites for some easy tips to avoid them. For more information on bed bugs, see Bed Bugs.

For more detailed information on avoiding bug bites, see Avoid Bug Bites.

Note: Zika is a risk in Mali. For more information, see Zika Travel Information.

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Stay safe outdoors

If your travel plans in Mali include outdoor activities, take these steps to stay safe and healthy during your trip.

  • Stay alert to changing weather conditions and adjust your plans if conditions become unsafe.
  • Prepare for activities by wearing the right clothes and packing protective items, such as bug spray, sunscreen, and a basic first aid kit.
  • Consider learning basic first aid and CPR before travel. Bring a travel health kit with items appropriate for your activities.
  • Heat-related illness, such as heat stroke, can be deadly. Eat and drink regularly, wear loose and lightweight clothing, and limit physical activity during high temperatures.
    • If you are outside for many hours in heat, eat salty snacks and drink water to stay hydrated and replace salt lost through sweating.
  • Protect yourself from UV radiation: use sunscreen with an SPF of at least 15, wear protective clothing, and seek shade during the hottest time of day (10 a.m.–4 p.m.).
  • Be especially careful during summer months and at high elevation. Because sunlight reflects off snow, sand, and water, sun exposure may be increased during activities like skiing, swimming, and sailing.
  • Very cold temperatures can be dangerous. Dress in layers and cover heads, hands, and feet properly if you are visiting a cold location.
Stay safe around water
  • Swim only in designated swimming areas. Obey lifeguards and warning flags on beaches.
  • Practice safe boating—follow all boating safety laws, do not drink alcohol if driving a boat, and always wear a life jacket.
  • Do not dive into shallow water.
  • Do not swim in freshwater in developing areas or where sanitation is poor.
  • Avoid swallowing water when swimming. Untreated water can carry germs that make you sick.
  • To prevent infections, wear shoes on beaches where there may be animal waste.

Schistosomiasis, a parasitic infection that can be spread in fresh water, is found in Mali. Avoid swimming in fresh, unchlorinated water, such as lakes, ponds, or rivers.

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Keep away from animals

Most animals avoid people, but they may attack if they feel threatened, are protecting their young or territory, or if they are injured or ill. Animal bites and scratches can lead to serious diseases such as rabies.

Follow these tips to protect yourself:

  • Do not touch or feed any animals you do not know.
  • Do not allow animals to lick open wounds, and do not get animal saliva in your eyes or mouth.
  • Avoid rodents and their urine and feces.
  • Traveling pets should be supervised closely and not allowed to come in contact with local animals.
  • If you wake in a room with a bat, seek medical care immediately. Bat bites may be hard to see.

All animals can pose a threat, but be extra careful around dogs, bats, monkeys, sea animals such as jellyfish, and snakes. If you are bitten or scratched by an animal, immediately:

  • Wash the wound with soap and clean water.
  • Go to a doctor right away.
  • Tell your doctor about your injury when you get back to the United States.

Consider buying medical evacuation insurance. Rabies is a deadly disease that must be treated quickly, and treatment may not be available in some countries.

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Reduce your exposure to germs

Follow these tips to avoid getting sick or spreading illness to others while traveling:

  • Wash your hands often, especially before eating.
  • If soap and water aren’t available, clean hands with hand sanitizer (containing at least 60% alcohol).
  • Don’t touch your eyes, nose, or mouth. If you need to touch your face, make sure your hands are clean.
  • Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or your sleeve (not your hands) when coughing or sneezing.
  • Try to avoid contact with people who are sick.
  • If you are sick, stay home or in your hotel room, unless you need medical care.
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Avoid sharing body fluids

Diseases can be spread through body fluids, such as saliva, blood, vomit, and semen.

Protect yourself:

  • Use latex condoms correctly.
  • Do not inject drugs.
  • Limit alcohol consumption. People take more risks when intoxicated.
  • Do not share needles or any devices that can break the skin. That includes needles for tattoos, piercings, and acupuncture.
  • If you receive medical or dental care, make sure the equipment is disinfected or sanitized.
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Know how to get medical care while traveling

Plan for how you will get health care during your trip, should the need arise:

  • Carry a list of local doctors and hospitals at your destination.
  • Review your health insurance plan to determine what medical services it would cover during your trip. Consider purchasing travel health and medical evacuation insurance.
  • Carry a card that identifies, in the local language, your blood type, chronic conditions or serious allergies, and the generic names of any medications you take.
  • Some prescription drugs may be illegal in other countries. Call Mali’s embassy to verify that all of your prescription(s) are legal to bring with you.
  • Bring all the medicines (including over-the-counter medicines) you think you might need during your trip, including extra in case of travel delays. Ask your doctor to help you get prescriptions filled early if you need to.

Many foreign hospitals and clinics are accredited by the Joint Commission International. A list of accredited facilities is available at their website (www.jointcommissioninternational.org).

In some countries, medicine (prescription and over-the-counter) may be substandard or counterfeit. Bring the medicines you will need from the United States to avoid having to buy them at your destination.

Malaria is a risk in Mali. Fill your malaria prescription before you leave and take enough with you for the entire length of your trip. Follow your doctor’s instructions for taking the pills; some need to be started before you leave.

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Select safe transportation

Motor vehicle crashes are the #1 killer of healthy US citizens in foreign countries.

In many places cars, buses, large trucks, rickshaws, bikes, people on foot, and even animals share the same lanes of traffic, increasing the risk for crashes.

Walking

Be smart when you are traveling on foot.

  • Use sidewalks and marked crosswalks.
  • Pay attention to the traffic around you, especially in crowded areas.
  • Remember, people on foot do not always have the right of way in other countries.
Riding/Driving

Choose a safe vehicle.

  • Choose official taxis or public transportation, such as trains and buses.
  • Ride only in cars that have seatbelts.
  • Avoid overcrowded, overloaded, top-heavy buses and minivans.
  • Avoid riding on motorcycles or motorbikes, especially motorbike taxis. (Many crashes are caused by inexperienced motorbike drivers.)
  • Choose newer vehicles—they may have more safety features, such as airbags, and be more reliable.
  • Choose larger vehicles, which may provide more protection in crashes.

Think about the driver.

  • Do not drive after drinking alcohol or ride with someone who has been drinking.
  • Consider hiring a licensed, trained driver familiar with the area.
  • Arrange payment before departing.

Follow basic safety tips.

  • Wear a seatbelt at all times.
  • Sit in the back seat of cars and taxis.
  • When on motorbikes or bicycles, always wear a helmet. (Bring a helmet from home, if needed.)
  • Avoid driving at night; street lighting in certain parts of Mali may be poor.
  • Do not use a cell phone or text while driving (illegal in many countries).
  • Travel during daylight hours only, especially in rural areas.
  • If you choose to drive a vehicle in Mali, learn the local traffic laws and have the proper paperwork.
  • Get any driving permits and insurance you may need. Get an International Driving Permit (IDP). Carry the IDP and a US-issued driver's license at all times.
  • Check with your auto insurance policy's international coverage, and get more coverage if needed. Make sure you have liability insurance.
Flying
  • Avoid using local, unscheduled aircraft.
  • If possible, fly on larger planes (more than 30 seats); larger airplanes are more likely to have regular safety inspections.
  • Try to schedule flights during daylight hours and in good weather.
Medical Evacuation Insurance

If you are seriously injured, emergency care may not be available or may not meet US standards. Trauma care centers are uncommon outside urban areas. Having medical evacuation insurance can be helpful for these reasons.

Helpful Resources

Road Safety Overseas (Information from the US Department of State): Includes tips on driving in other countries, International Driving Permits, auto insurance, and other resources.

The Association for International Road Travel has country-specific Road Travel Reports available for most countries for a minimal fee.

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Maintain personal security

Use the same common sense traveling overseas that you would at home, and always stay alert and aware of your surroundings.

Before you leave
  • Research your destination(s), including local laws, customs, and culture.
  • Monitor travel warnings and alerts and read travel tips from the US Department of State.
  • Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP).
  • Leave a copy of your itinerary, contact information, credit cards, and passport with someone at home.
  • Pack as light as possible, and leave at home any item you could not replace.
While at your destination(s)
  • Carry contact information for the nearest US embassy or consulate.
  • Carry a photocopy of your passport and entry stamp; leave the actual passport securely in your hotel.
  • Follow all local laws and social customs.
  • Do not wear expensive clothing or jewelry.
  • Always keep hotel doors locked, and store valuables in secure areas.
  • If possible, choose hotel rooms between the 2nd and 6th floors.
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Healthy Travel Packing List

Use the Healthy Travel Packing List for Mali for a list of health-related items to consider packing for your trip. Talk to your doctor about which items are most important for you.

Why does CDC recommend packing these health-related items?

It’s best to be prepared to prevent and treat common illnesses and injuries. Some supplies and medicines may be difficult to find at your destination, may have different names, or may have different ingredients than what you normally use.

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Travel Health Notices

There are no notices currently in effect for Mali.

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After Your Trip

If you are not feeling well after your trip, you may need to see a doctor. If you need help finding a travel medicine specialist, see Find a Clinic. Be sure to tell your doctor about your travel, including where you went and what you did on your trip. Also tell your doctor if you were bitten or scratched by an animal while traveling.

If your doctor prescribed antimalarial medicine for your trip, keep taking the rest of your pills after you return home. If you stop taking your medicine too soon, you could still get sick.

Malaria is always a serious disease and may be a deadly illness. If you become ill with a fever either while traveling in a malaria-risk area or after you return home (for up to 1 year), you should seek immediate medical attention and should tell the doctor about your travel history.

For more information on what to do if you are sick after your trip, see Getting Sick after Travel.

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Map Disclaimer - The boundaries and names shown and the designations used on maps do not imply the expression of any opinion whatsoever on the part of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention concerning the legal status of any country, territory, city or area or of its authorities, or concerning the delimitation of its frontiers or boundaries. Approximate border lines for which there may not yet be full agreement are generally marked.

Currency

The official currency in Mali is the West African CFA Franc (XOF), which is divided into 100 centimes. The CFA franc is tied to the Euro. Foreign currency can be exchanged at banks in Bamako. The Euro is the easiest currency to exchange. Some major credit cards, most reliably Visa, are accepted in some hotels and restaurants in the capital, but credit cards in general are not widely used in Mali.

Bamako International Airport (BKO)
Mobibo Keïta International Airport

Location: Bamako The airport is situated nine miles (15km) from Bamako.

map of Bamako International Airport

Time: No GMT offset.

Contacts: Tel: +223 204 626

Getting to the city: While buses, minibuses and shuttles may be available, it is advisable to take a taxi or organise transport through hotels.

Car rental:

Airport Taxis: Taxis are available.

Facilities: Airport facilities are limited, but include some shops.

Parking: Parking is available.

Overview of the Attractions in Mali

Public Holidays in Mali

  2020 2021
Birth of the Prophet Tue. October 29 Sat. October 19
New Year's Day Mon. January 1 Mon. January 1
Armed Forces Day Sat. January 20 Sat. January 20
Martyrs' Day Tue. March 26 Tue. March 26
Easter Monday Sat. April 13 Fri. April 5
Labour Day Wed. May 1 Wed. May 1
Africa Day Sat. May 25 Sat. May 25
Korité (End of Ramadan) Fri. May 24 Mon. May 13
Independence Day Sun. September 22 Sun. September 22
Tabaski (Feast of the Sacrifice) Wed. July 31 Sat. July 20
Christmas Day Wed. December 25 Wed. December 25

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The Best Boutique Hotels in San Francisco
From a tech-forward minimalist hideout to a lavish members club, these are the best boutique hotels in San Francisco right now
Inside Hook
Tuesday January 02, 2024
It's official: this is the world's most overcrowded tourist destination
It’s great news for businesses and travellers alike that travel has returned to pre-pandemic normality, and many of us are holidaying again. However, overtourism is having a dire impact on many popular destination, and some places have been forced to implement measures to control tourist numbers
TimeOut
Tuesday September 19, 2023
Malibu's Secret Beach for the Wealthy Is Opening to the Public After 40 Years
A secret beach for the wealthy in Malibu, California is not going to be a secret for much longer. Escondido Beach has been wrapped up in legal battles for decades, as the beach is not accessible to the public, as required by local regulations. According
Travel+Leisure
Friday June 16, 2023
12 Things Only San Francisco Locals Know
San Francisco makes it easy for visitors – dress codes are nearly nonexistent and its self-aware laid-back culture keeps formalities to a minimum. But there are a few things a savvy traveler can do ahead in advance to make the most of their time, such as reserve restaurant
Lonely Planet
Friday May 26, 2023
My Prescription Medication Is Banned in a Country I’m Visiting. Now What?
My girlfriend and I have been dating for five years, and we share an obsession with Japan. Our childhood rooms had dorky posters of the country lining our walls, and we frequently geek out over minimalism and ryokan architecture. If we were to get married, it’d be the obvious
Fodor's Travel
Wednesday May 24, 2023
5 of Switzerland’s Most Stylish Boutique Hotels
Intimate and refined, Switzerland’s boutique and design hotels boast a delightful combination of individuality and style. Whether you prefer a 17th-century building packed with history and minimalist furniture or an alpine-chic mountain lodge with an award-winning
AFAR
Tuesday May 09, 2023
Malibu Barbie Cafe Pop-Ups Coming To New York And Chicago This Spring
With a live-action Barbie movie on the way, two new pop-up restaurants will give fans a chance to step into the doll's world – at least for a meal. The Malibu Barbie Cafe, inspired by Mattel's iconic toy of the same name, will launch in New York and Chicago later this spring, taking
USA Today
Thursday April 06, 2023
5 Ways To Make Travel More Meaningful In 2023
With 2022’s travel woes in the rearview mirror, the year ahead beckons with the prospect of rediscovering the world’s wonders. “We are seeing travel patterns and habits normalize to pre-pandemic times, a good sign of what is to come in 2023,” says Tiffany Townsend, NYC
National Geographic
Wednesday January 04, 2023
Newly Reopened Boutique Hotel The Madrona Is a Maximalist Dream in California’s Sonoma County
Earlier this summer, driving under a crested archway and up a softly winding road toward the Madrona, I immediately realized that this reimagined estate and mansion stands apart from some of the sprawling modern retreats of Northern California’s wine country. The Madrona, a collection
AFAR
Wednesday August 31, 2022
These Are the Top Worst Airports to Fly Through This Month Due to Their High Rates of Flight Delays & Cancellations
With the removal of Coronavirus travel restrictions, air travel to, from and throughout Europe is slowly returning to normality, with the European Travel Commission (ETC) predicting that 70 per cent of the pre-pandemic travel in the continent will recover this year. The return of travellers
Schengen Visa News
Thursday July 14, 2022
The 14 Best Boutique Hotels Around the World
These intimate, luxurious hotels in destinations like Malibu, Costa Rica, and Kenya are the best boutique hotels in the world.
Travel+Leisure
Monday March 21, 2022
How access to air quality info can increase hotel occupancy
With tight operational constraints imposed by social distancing for customers and staff, the hotel sector has been one of the last industries to return to near normality during the COVID-19 pandemic
Hotel Management
Tuesday October 26, 2021
First Look at Le Grand Contrôle hotel, Versailles
In the legendary grounds of Versailles, a grand hotel arrival pays tribute to the maximalist splendour of its setting
Conde Nast Traveller
Thursday August 19, 2021
Greece opens its doors to Covid-free tourists
Greece has lifted quarantine requirements for vaccinated travelers and those testing negative for Covid-19 from key tourism markets, including Europe, the UK and the United States, in what officials called "baby steps" on the road back to normality
CNN
Tuesday April 20, 2021
180-Day World Cruise Sells Out In a Single Day!
It seems everyone is in need of Oceania Cruises’ 180-day world cruise that departs in 2023. The epic voyage has sold out in a single day! By the time the cruise departs the industry will no doubt be back to some normality and that confidence remains in the sector
Cruise Hive
Tuesday February 09, 2021
Norwegian Cruise Line Makes Difficult Decision on Crew Members
With further suspensions to May 2021 and a long journey ahead to return to normality for Norwegian Cruise Line, it’s now confirmed that non-essential crew members are being sent back home again after recently returning to the ships
Cruise Hive
Thursday January 28, 2021
This New Malibu Bike Tour Includes Stunning Ocean Views and Wine Tasting
Saddle Rock Ranch vineyard, a ranch encompassing some 1,000 acres in the Santa Monica Mountains, will take guests through the grapevines, too.
Travel+Leisure
Tuesday September 15, 2020
Israeli airline Israir announces first direct flight route to UAE
Israir became the first Israeli airline to announce the first direct route to the United Arab Emirates (UAE) after the two countries reached a historic agreement last month to normalise relations
Business Standard
Friday September 11, 2020
Princess Cruises cancels cruises through Dec. 15, months beyond CDC's 'no-sail order'
Princess Cruises has canceled sailings across the globe through Dec. 15 – with one exception. "All cruises in and out of Australia will be paused until Oct. 31 and then all other sailings across all other countries are paused through Dec. 15,” Negin Kamali, spokesperson for Princess Cruises, told USA TODAY.
USA Today
Thursday July 23, 2020
These Croatian Destinations Have Most Tourists, Here's Why
Across Croatia, one million overnight stays were realised in the first half of July, and the Croatian destinations with the highest number of overnight stays were Rovinj, Medulin, Vir, Mali Losinj and Porec.
Total Croatia News
Tuesday July 21, 2020
NASA and Virgin Galactic are developing supersonic air travel
Space tourism company Virgin Galactic is teaming up with NASA as part of a project to develop "high-speed technologies" for supersonic air travel. The collaboration, formalized by the signing of a Space Act Agreement this week, will aim to make "technically feasible, high Mach vehicles for civil applications." Exact details and timescales remain murky, but Virgin Galactic said on Tuesday it is
Newsweek
Thursday May 07, 2020
Favorite Hotel Design Trends Of The Last Decade
Depending upon the era, hotel design trends can range from esoteric to fanciful and industrial to minimalist. Utilizing such design concepts as symmetry and simplicity, designers can transform a once dreary interior into a magical space that is both welcoming and functional. Whether it’s the bare-boned beauty of the minimalist or the neutral tones of rustic design, hotels tend to embrace the personality of their
Forbes
Monday February 10, 2020
Traveling To Kenya? Here Is A 7 Day Safari Guide
Kenya is ranked as one of the best Africa safari destinations. The land of the Masai is located at the far east of Africa neighboring the Indian Ocean in the East, Uganda in the West, Tanzania in the South and in the North, South Sudan, Ethiopia and Somalia. Kenya receives more than 2 million travelers, but tourism, like taking a safari in Kenya make up the largest number of international arrivals in Kenya. The
Forbes
Thursday February 06, 2020
Black Travel Vibes: Enjoy The Slow Life In Senegal
A vibrant and thriving country bordered by Mauritania, Mali, Guinea, and Guinea-Bissau, the West African nation of Senegal is a colorful gem that offers something for every type of traveler. Though Ghana may have gotten the shine last year during their ‘Year of Return’ campaign, Senegal has long seen an increase in Black travelers looking to
Essence
Wednesday January 15, 2020
Can a Cruise Line Get to Tell You What to Wear?
Dress codes on cruises are nothing new. In fact, it’s fairly standard for cruises to require certain levels of formality for evenings, special events, or certain onboard dining areas. But a major cruise line recently updated its policies on what can—or more specifically can’t—be worn when it comes to the messaging on passengers’ clothing and accessories. The new policy from Carnival
Fodor's Travel
Tuesday January 14, 2020
Aman Kyoto Hotel
Nature steals the show at the new Aman Kyoto – the brand’s third property in Japan – which is located in an exquisite hidden garden and surrounded by more than 32 hectares of dense forests, scattered with minimalist pavilions housing rooms, a serene spa with hot spring onsen bathing, and two high-quality restaurants. It’s Kyoto – but perhaps not as most people know it. Tucked away in a quiet
Telegraph (London)
Friday November 01, 2019
Could This Much-Maligned Way of Traveling Be Good for Your Health?
It’s no secret: cruises aren’t favored by everyone. Cramped living situations, not-so-modest costs, schedules for shore excursions, boredom, and kitschy to the max–there are downsides. For some, though, cruises are a preferred escape, and now for good reason. Travel Pulse
Fodor's Travel
Tuesday October 22, 2019
Hi-Lo Hotel
This Millennial-friendly hotel aims to capture the best of both 'high' and 'low' culture, with a low-key vibe but high standards. Design is trendy but not faddy, and feels minimalist and calming. Swing by Mexican restaurant Alto Bajo on the ground floor for a mean margarita. In Downtown, just a few blocks south of the cool Pearl District. Portland's restaurant scene is easily accessible from here on
Telegraph (London)
Friday August 23, 2019
The Obamas Are Having a Seriously Luxurious Family Vacation
The entire Obama family is back on the vacation grind, this time in the south of France. Ever since leaving the White House, Barack, Michelle, and their two daughters Sasha and Malia have been galavanting around the globe, taking in the sights and living their best life. The family has been spotted on private yachts in French
Travel+Leisure
Tuesday June 18, 2019
10 of Europe's best new seaside hotels
On a remote and rocky hillside on the Mani peninsula, a 90-minute drive south from Kalamata airport, Aria Estate is a group of 13 B&B apartments built last year. Each minimalist suite has exposed brickwork, a simple kitchenette and a terrace where the seasonal four-course breakfast is served. Afternoon tea with homemade cake and aperitifs with
The Guardian
Tuesday June 11, 2019
Packing Tips from a Maximalist and Minimalist
We have a lot of arguments in the Traveler office about packing: roll vs. fold, carry-on vs. checked, hard shell vs. soft... The list goes on. This week—to add more fuel to the fire—we brought in two expert travelers on opposite ends of the spectrum to talk about their packing tips. Shiona Turini is a self-proclaimed maximalist. Her job as a stylist and costume designer
Conde Nast Traveler
Tuesday May 14, 2019
The Anxiety of the $2,300-a-Night Hotel Room
Carbon Beach is a beguiling and exclusive crescent of sand along the Pacific Ocean in Malibu, famous — infamous might be a better word — for the long and mostly losing battle conducted by its wealthy homeowners to keep the public off this stunning mile of coastline. It is also known as Billionaire’s Beach, a fitting reference to the Californians
New York Times
Friday May 03, 2019
8 airplanes converted into restaurants
In-flight meals are definitely one of the most maligned aspects of air travel. Despite some airlines acquiring world-class chefs to create their menus, few passengers are likely to get revved up about the prospect of eating 30,000 feet above the Atlantic. Perhaps it's because our taste buds have a tendency to malfunction at altitude. Some argue that we're
CNN
Friday April 19, 2019
Viking Saga: The Tale of Tor Hagen And His Voyage From Ousted CEO To Cancer Survivor To Cruise Ship Billionaire
As the sparkling blue waters and red-roofed towns of Croatia drift by, Torstein Hagen makes his way through the minimalist, Scandinavian-style lobby of the Viking Jupiter cruise ship, explaining what makes Viking’s voyages successful. The secret is in what the ships don’t have. There are no casinos, no kids, no umbrella drinks, no formal nights, no
Forbes
Monday April 15, 2019
The Lake District's latest spa is all about minimalism, but there's still enough luxury to make Cleopatra swoon
I reckon we could learn a thing or two about wellness from Cleopatra. Celebrated in history for her undulating beauty and cunning intellect, the former queen of Egypt (circa 51 BC) bathed in milk, a known softener for skin; she dipped into the Dead Sea, with its mineral-rich waters; and used rose water as a hydrator. Even her much-emulated smokey-eye make
Telegraph (London)
Wednesday April 10, 2019
10 of the best new hostels in amazing buildings
With a symmetrical pastel-blue exterior, a la Wes Anderson, and block colour splashes throughout, this former Portuguese family home just outside Lisbon has been transformed into a vibrant new hostel. The partially dilapidated structure was restored in order to keep the original shape of the roof intact. Minimalist interiors include white walls and polished concrete
The Guardian
Thursday February 21, 2019
The top nine reasons to visit Houston in 2019
From its integral role in the world's first moon landing 50 years ago this July to a new lineup of appealing options in the arts and culinary scenes, Houston has never been more ripe for exploration. It wins in the aesthetics department, too: The much-photographed skyline is dotted with skyscrapers in architectural styles ranging from Art Deco to minimalist, and this city of
CNN
Tuesday February 19, 2019
Minimalist Shipping Container Hotel Can Travel Around the World
The premise of a hotel is simple: Build a beautiful building in a sought-after location, and visitors will come. The French hotel group AccorHotels is upending that concept with the Flying Nest, a humble but stylish traveling hotel built from shipping containers.
Curbed
Thursday December 20, 2018
A Night At London's Sexiest New Hotel
The first thing you should know about Holborn’s L’oscar hotel is that it’s housed in a turn-of-the-century, Baroque-style church. Initially, this holy history may seem at odds with the decadent maximalism of Jacques Garcia, the Parisian décorateur who literally wrote the book on elegance, luxury and excess. But instead, the divine past of this listed
Forbes
Monday November 26, 2018
Why These 7 Countries Are Listed on Trump's Travel Ban
On Tuesday, the Supreme court upheld the Trump administration’s travel ban 5-4, affirming the president’s power over matters of national security. The latest iteration of the ban includes restrictions against five majority-Muslim nations — Iran, Libya, Somalia, Syria and Yemen. North Korea and Venezuela are also on the list. Three other
Politico
Wednesday June 27, 2018
These Are Britain's Most Beautiful Train Journeys
How to enrich an everyday rail journey? Scan the station departure screens for a glimpse of a faraway place, and plan for the day you will forsake your usual train and make your escape. Laced within the most humdrum rail schedules are some exotic anomalies – even from an inner-city station or a windswept halt in rural Norfolk. You just need to know where to start.
The Independent
Friday April 20, 2018
Inside Muji's New 'Anti-Gorgeous' Hotel in Shenzhen
Minimalist fans can get an early glimpse inside Muji's first ever hotel before it launches later this month in China's Shenzhen
CNN
Tuesday January 16, 2018
Is your Caribbean Cruise Destination still open? A Port-by-Port look after Irma, Maria
The storms knocked two of the region's busiest cruise ports — Charlotte Amalie, St. Thomas and Philipsburg, St. Maarten — off cruise schedules for weeks and maybe months. Several other popular cruise destinations including Tortola in the British Virgin Islands also are closed to ships for now
USA Today
Thursday September 21, 2017
Adults-Only Temptation Cancun Resort Reopens after Rebuild
Inspired by the human body, the new resort’s 430 guestrooms and public spaces epitomise Karim’s signature ‘sensual minimalism’ style, including an iconic multi-coloured seven-storey façade
The Yucatan Times
Monday August 21, 2017
3 New Destination Hotels Open in Malibu
Malibu has long been a place where A-listers have retreated for the weekend to let their hair down and bury their toes in the sand. Now, with not one but three new hotels opening along the Pacific Coast Highway, there are three compelling reasons to make Malibu the go-to spot for your next beach getaway
Vogue
Wednesday August 09, 2017
Don't Let the Mount Vesuvius Fire Put you Off Visiting Naples
Naples has long been a much maligned city, painted by those in other parts of Italy – as well as abroad – as a lawless place that’s best avoided
The Independent
Monday July 17, 2017
Airbnb Tries to Behave More Like a Hotel
Airbnb — the sharing-economy start-up born with a crash-on-my-couch informality — is now trying to professionalize its more than two million “hosts” around the world. In just nine years, the company has built a global hospitality brand on the backs of homeowners
New York Times
Monday June 19, 2017
For convenience on the road, Airstream's Basecamp offers mystique in a small package
A decade ago, Airstream introduced a small, utilitarian trailer called the Basecamp. The beautiful, streamlined pod turned heads on the highway. Inside, it had no bathroom but the easy-to-clean, minimalist interior was perfect for muddy and sandy gear. Airstream announced that the Basecamp was coming back new. The company introduced an updated version, hoping for a more receptive market. The 2016 Basecamp (MSRP $34,900) is 16 feet long and weighs in at just 2,585 pounds, the lightest in Airstream's fleet. In October, the first units rolled through the doors of dealerships, and there's been a wait list ever since
Chicago Tribune
Thursday May 04, 2017
Norway’s Arctic north: Eco-cabins and Sea Eagles
The resort’s design plays its part in this, with a strong emphasis on natural materials, chiefly wood. Its main feature is four sea cabins that look like outsize sound-system speakers jutting out from the island. The cabins have walls clad in larch and are of modular construction, with floor-to-ceiling glass wrapped around their fronts. Placing minimalist boxes into natural settings has become an architectural cliché. No matter. Manshausen’s designer, Snorre Stinessen, won several prizes at the Architizer A Awards in New York for the cabins – and deservedly so
The Guardian
Tuesday May 02, 2017
Cruising the Suez Canal means being mindful of pirates
Well that was quite the trip! We wanted to see the Suez Canal and found not many passenger ships do that route, and we saw why, what with high canal charges and pirates round Somalia
Vancouver Sun
Monday March 20, 2017
What happens if a cruise ship is attacked by pirates?
After the first successful hijacking of a commercial ship by Somali pirates in five years, John Honeywell explains why cruise ships continue to visit the region - and how they protect themselves. For most, mention of the word “pirate” conjures visions
Telegraph (London)
Wednesday March 15, 2017
Boutique hotel in San Francisco's Tenderloin opens with $119 rooms
The Tilden, a renovated hotel that embraces its place in the city's historically sketchy neighborhood, features minimalist design that redefines the 118-room hotel, which reopened in October
LA Times
Wednesday November 23, 2016
Boeing Wants to Travel to Mars Before SpaceX Does
Remember that “Get a Mac” ad campaign from around a decade ago? On one side of a minimalist room, you had the PC, played by a suit-and-tie John Hodgman—all business, by-the-book, and old-school polite professionalism
Condé Nast Traveler
Thursday October 06, 2016
Marktgasse Hotel: Historic minimalism in Zurich’s Old Town
While the building has housed travellers since the 15th century, the interiors of this Old Town boutique hotel are thoroughly modern. The clean look of white-painted walls and blond-wood floors and drawers is punctuated by quirky details: Bright-orange armchairs on a black-and-white patterned rug, say, or a slate-grey tissue holder shaped like a Monopoly house
Globe and Mail
Tuesday September 27, 2016
Hotel review: Limalimo Lodge, Ethiopia
New openings in the Ethiopian Highlands are rare. When it comes to the Simien Mountains National Park, one of the richest wildlife areas in the country, visitors could previously stay either in the nearby town of Debark or, if keen to be inside the park’s borders, the decade-old Simien Lodge
The Independent
Tuesday September 13, 2016
15 unusual holiday destinations where the terror risk is low
The threat of terrorism is rated "high" in more than 30 countries around the world, according to the Foreign Office, with summer holiday favourites such as Spain and France given the same rating as Libya, Pakistan and Somalia. Here are 15 "low" risk destinations that might surprise you
Telegraph (London)
Thursday June 30, 2016
What to Wear on a Plane: The Comfy-Chic Option
ADAY's collection of minimalist clothes in technical fabrics will keep you looking and feeling cool (literally) on your next long-haul flight
Condé Nast Traveler
Tuesday May 24, 2016
Malibu Wine Safari pairs vineyard tour with exotic animals
Looking for a different kind of wine-tasting experience? Malibu Wine Safaris has just the ticket at Saddlerock Ranch, part vineyard, part wildlife habitat
Chicago Tribune
Thursday April 14, 2016
Diving With Great White Sharks in Mexico
Although Peter Benchley’s book “Jaws” and Steven Spielberg’s subsequent movie adaptation depicted the great white as a danger to humans, the last decade has seen Isla Guadalupe become one of the world’s top destinations for shark enthusiasts and scientists hoping to dive with the oft-maligned and misunderstood creatures
New York Times
Thursday March 31, 2016
The Lower Danube: Bucharest to Budapest
Cruising the lower Danube River, where ancient anomalies feel like yesterday
Miami Herald
Thursday March 31, 2016
Cruising in Burma to temples, caves, and a giant Buddha
Our downstream journey from Homalin, close to the Indian border and 600 miles from the Chindwin’s confluence with the better-known Irrawaddy, has been hastened by the current. So the captain decides to make one of several unscheduled stops during our week-long journey to Monywa
The Independent
Monday February 29, 2016
US, Cuba near deal on restoring commercial flights
The diplomatic advance would help open the way for U.S. airlines to begin flying to Cuba within months in what would likely be the biggest step toward tighter economic ties since the two countries began normalizing relations last year
Fox Travel News
Thursday December 17, 2015
Door Opens Slightly to Cuba, but Businesses Face Difficulty Getting In
For all the early optimism, businesses and advocates for engagement are increasingly finding that genuine normalization is still more aspiration than reality
New York Times
Monday June 22, 2015
In Iceland, Seeking a Luxury Hotel Amid the Rustic Charm
A trip outside Rejkyavik, where minimalist aesthetics and raw nature coexist
New York Times
Thursday June 18, 2015
ION Luxury Adventure Hotel, Nesjavellir, Iceland: review
ION Luxury Adventure Hotel is an Iceland hotel offering minimalist design, good breakfasts and a heated outdoor pool, near Thingvellir National Park and the popular "Golden Circle" route
Telegraph (London)
Thursday March 26, 2015
ION Luxury Adventure Hotel, Nesjavellir, Iceland: review
ION Luxury Adventure Hotel is an Iceland hotel offering minimalist design, good breakfasts and a heated outdoor pool, near Thingvellir National Park and the popular ‘Golden Circle’ route
Telegraph (London)
Monday March 16, 2015
Avalon Hotel, Gothenburg, Sweden: review
Avalon Hotel is a stylish Gothenburg hotel offering youthful interiors, cosy but minimalist rooms, exceptional Swedish cuisine, and fabulous views of the city from the rooftop swimming pool, near Kungsportsplatsen and Gothenburg Central Station
Telegraph (London)
Monday February 23, 2015
Where to eat in Hong Kong: Join the queue for a culinary roller-coaster
The formalities of hotel dining usually run on the same well-trodden lines – what you might call the César Ritz lines. You walk to the entrance and a well-mannered, agreeably dressed member of staff swoops in and leads you, usually with the solemnity of a cardinal, to your table; which is usually covered in a thick, off-white cloth and all the other glinting appurtenances of fine dining
The Independent
Monday February 09, 2015
Aman Tokyo hotel, Tokyo, Japan: review
Aman Tokyo is a Tokyo hotel offering minimalist interiors, traditional Japanese spa treatments, fabulous city views, spacious rooms and excellent food, near the Imperial Palace and Tokyo Station. Click on the right of the image below for more photographs
Telegraph (London)
Monday January 19, 2015
Modern hotels with funky furniture
Based on the straightforward idea that "less is more," modern design focuses on creating more with, well, less -- by using simplicity, minimalism and geometry
USA Today
Tuesday January 13, 2015
Can Americans Take Cruise Ships to Cuba? Not Yet….
The White House’s move toward normalizing relations with Cuba has fueled interest among American cruise passengers hoping to visit, although the agreement doesn’t allow U.S.-based cruise ships to call
CruiseCritic.com
Thursday December 18, 2014
Amansara hotel, Siem Reap, Cambodia: review
Amansara is a Cambodia hotel offering minimalist design, traditional Cambodian cuisine, trips to Angkor Wat, and a tranquil vibe, near Siem Reap