MONEY
Official Currency: Leone=100 cents
Current Exchange Rate
American Express is widely accepted and other credit cards are accepted
on a limited basis. Travellers cheques are best taken in Pounds
Sterling or US Dollars, other currencies incur high exchange rates. It
is recommended that you also have cash with you.
BANKING & BUSINESS HOURS
Banking: Monday
to Thursday : 0800-1300 Friday: 0800-1400 Shops:
Monday to Saturday: 0800-1200 and 1400-1700
LOCAL TIME
Sierra Leone has the same time as GMT
TRANSPORT & GETTING AROUND
Air:
There is currently no domestic airline. Private airlines can be
chartered.
Public Transport:
Sierra Leone Road Transport Corp. provides a reliable and efficient bus
services from Freetown to all the major towns and the prices are fairly
cheap. Bush taxis and minibuses also run on relatively short trips
between towns.
Self Drive / Hire Cars:
The main roads connecting major towns are sealed, but lesser used
routes are in poor condition rendering them often impassable during the
rains. Driving is on the right hand side and an International Driving
Licence is required. There a very few car hie companies in the country.
PUBLIC HOLIDAYS
1st January
New Year's Day
27th April
Independence Day
25th December
Christmas Day
26th December
Boxing Day
Moveable holidays:
Good Friday and
Easter Monday
and variable Muslim holidays
Electrical Power
Electric Power is 230V running at
50Hz. The Plug types used are :
Round pins with ground
Rectangular blade plug
TRAVEL INSURANCE
If you need medical care whilst in Sierrra Leone, it is best to be
aware that medical providers may not accept payment through your
insurance company. In these circumstances you will have to pay in full
after your treatment and file a claim with your insurance company for
reimbursement. Therefore you should have access to cash, either from a
credit card or by wire transfer. If you need assistance contact the
country's local embassy or representative.
To be compensated you must be treated by licensed medical personnel and
provide your insurance company with proper documentation and receipts.
It is advisable to always ensure you have a comprehensive travel
insurance policy which covers you for repatriation to your home country.
