Health and Safety: An international vaccination certificate or World Health Organization card is required.

Three vaccinations are mandatory for Benin: Yellow fever, Meningitis and Typhoid.

It is also advisable to be immunized against hepatitis and cholera.

Also ensure protection against tuberculosis, tetanus and malaria.

Drink only bottled water unless it has been boiled (for at least 3 minutes). Or purify the water with iodine tablets. Avoid ice in drinks; you can't be sure it was made from boiled water.

Getting Around: In most cities/villages, you'll find motorcycle taxis called 'Zemidjans'. You'll identify the drivers by their colorful shirts. This is the fastest, most convenient, and cheapest way to get around both within and between cities.

However, the ride quality of the machines varies considerably, and breakdowns are not uncommon.

Be sure to discuss the price with your driver before agreeing (a trip to Cotonou, for example, costs around 250-400 CFA francs).

Currency: CFA Franc (XOF).

You can exchange money upon arrival at the airport. Several banks in Cotonou exchange cash and traveler's checks, including Ecobank. The Financial Bank will also let you withdraw cash from your Visa card. Credit cards are generally not accepted, except in high-end hotels and some restaurants.

Communication: The postal service is very reliable and available. Overseas phone calls are easy from Cotonou. Internet cafes are available in major cities. Electricity: 220 V