Algeria

Much of recent Algerian history has been dominated by civil wars and subsequent warlordism. That said, the country is gradually restoring order and will prove an interesting - if difficult - destination.

Electricity

Officially 220V 50Hz. Outlets are the European standard CEE-7/7 "Schukostecker" or "Schuko" or the compatible, but non-grounded, CEE-7/16 "Europlug" types. Generally speaking, U.S. and Canadian travelers should pack an adapter for these outlets if they plan to use North American electrical equipment in Algeria.

Despite many Western Foreign Offices will advise you against travelling to Algeria you must know that the terrorism is, at April 2005, focused only in certain areas in the evening. These are: Chlef, Ain Defla, Relizane, Laarba, Medea, and Collo. Do not travel by night, travel by plane if you can instead of by car, avoid minor roads, ask the police if you are not sure about a region, and nothing should happen. (please keep in mind that, as with all non-current and unfinished advisories, one should never trust any third-hand information about the safety of a foreign country)

Algiers is frequently struck by power cuts, which subsequently means that refrigerated foods may go bad. As a result one should take extra care when eating in restaurants, as there is a high possibility of getting food poisoning. Mosquitoes are also a problem in Algeria, but are simply nuisances, because malaria is not common. In urban areas there are often anti-mosquito measures taken, such as city-wide spraying of mosquitoes in order to cut down their numbers. When travelling in Algeria one should always use sun protection.