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Senegal Travel Guides

The Basics:


Electricity

Electrical current is 220 volts, 50Hz. Round two-pin attachment plugs are in use.

Language

The official language is French, but there are six other national languages spoken, including Wolof, which is the most widely used, as well as numerous other dialects.

Tipping

Larger hotels and restaurants usually include a service charge of 10 to 15% . Taxi drivers are not usually tipped.

Safety Information

Most visits to Senegal are trouble-free, but street crime and pick-pocketing, especially in Dakar, are common. Visitors are advised to conceal valuables from the public eye. Travel by road in the Casamance region west of Kolda is unsafe due to the activities of separatist rebel groups and bandits, and should be avoided.

Local Customs

The majority of the population is Muslim and it is generally a conservative society where dress and behaviour should be modest, especially outside the main tourist areas. Public displays of affection between men and women should be avoided, and acts of homosexuality are illegal. Drunkenness is offensive. Religious customs should be respected, particularly during the holy month of Ramadan when eating, drinking and smoking are prohibited by the Muslim faith; visitors should avoid eating and drinking in public during this time.

Business

In Senegal, it is expected of the visitor to dress formally. Greetings are very important in Senegal and the visitor must ensure that every member at the meeting is greeted and acknowledged at least once. The shaking of hands is the standard greeting for men and women in business. It is a good idea to be punctual even if the host is not. Meetings can often take longer than anticipated and patience may prove a virtue. Business is usually conducted in French and a translator may be needed, although many Senegalese businessmen will know some English. It is important to find out beforehand how the contacts are to be addressed. Business hours are generally 8am to 5pm Monday


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