Newsgroups: wstd.travel.advisories From: 76702.1202@CompuServe.COM (Charlie Smith) Subject: *NEW* TRAVEL INFORMATION -- Angola Organization: The World @ Software Tool & Die Distribution: wstd Date: Tue, 29 Dec 1992 14:29:43 GMT STATE DEPARTMENT TRAVEL INFORMATION - Angola ============================================================ ANGOLA - TRAVEL WARNING December 24, 1992 U.S. citizens are warned against all travel to Angola, because of continuing unsettled conditions in the country. Travel within Angola is unsafe due to the presence of armed troops, roadside bandits and many unexploded landmines which are still being removed >from roads and footpaths. Department of State personnel in Luanda have been strongly advised against any attempt at surface travel between Angola and neighboring countries. Additional information can be found in the Department of State's Consular Information Sheet on Angola. No. 92-08 This replaces the travel advisory warning dated April 9, 1992. ANGOLA - CONSULAR INFORMATION SHEET December 24, 1992 Warning: U.S. citizens are warned against travel to Angola, because of continuing unsettled conditions in the country. Travel within Angola is unsafe due to the presence of armed troops, roadside bandits and many unexploded land mines which are still being removed from roads and footpaths. Department of State personnel have been strongly advised against any attempt at surface travel between Angola and neighboring countries. Embassy Location: The United States does not recognize or maintain diplomatic relations with Angola. There is a U.S. Liaison Office located at the Casa Inglesa, first floor, Rua Major Kanyangunla, in the capital city of Luanda. In November 1992 the U.S. Liaison Office further reduced its staff. No consular personnel are assigned to the Liaison Office, and only emergency services can be provided to American citizens. Country Description: Angola is a developing African country which has experienced war and civil strife since independence from Portugal in 1975. A cease-fire between the forces for the Government of the People's Republic of Angola (GRA) and the National Union for the Total Independence of Angola (UNITA) went into effect in May 1991, monitored by both parties and verified by UN monitors. Following the September 1992 elections, offensive movement of troops and arms increased throughout the countryside and violence erupted in Luanda. A new cease-fire went into effect November 1, but military movements continue. Facilities for tourism are virtually nonexistent. Entry Requirements: Visas are required. Persons arriving without visas are subject to possible arrest or deportation. For information on entry requirements, the traveler can contact the Angolan Permanent Representative to the U.N., 747 Third Avenue, 18th Floor, New York, N.Y., 10017. Areas of Instability: Although travel in the capital city of Luanda is relatively safe by day, travel throughout Angola is considered unsafe due to the possibility of attacks by armed soldiers or civilians. Medical Facilities: Medical facilities are virtually nonexistent in most areas. Most medicine is unavailable. Angola is a malarial area. Information on Crime: Violent crime exists throughout the country. Armed robbery occurs in Luanda. A convoy of local oil workers was attacked in December 1992 by armed insurgents some 220 miles from Luanda. Four persons were killed and several wounded. Most roads outside Luanda cannot be considered safe by night and in many cases are also unsafe by day. Shortages: There are severe shortages of lodging, transportation, food, water and utilities in Luanda and other cities in the country. Shortages result in a lack of sanitary conditions in many areas, including Luanda. Drug Penalties: Penalties for possession, use or trafficking in illegal drugs are strict and convicted offenders can expect jail sentences and fines. Registration: The U.S. Liaison Office in Luanda is unable to perform consular services at this time. U.S. citizens who, despite this warning, travel to Angola, can register with the Italian Embassy and obtain updated information on travel and security in Angola. No. 92-128 Distribution: >INTERNET:travel-advisories@stolaf.edu.