Travel tips for Madagascar - what to prepare in advance and what to obey

1. Despite the fact that the crime level in Madagascar is not high, it is still recommended to follow basic safety rules. Do not take large sums of money when going outside and do not leave personal belongings unattended.

2. No matter where you are – in the capital city or in the countryside – it is always a good idea to stick to the guide. This way you will safely protect yourself from meeting criminals and hostile locals.

3. Women need to keep in mind that it is better not to stay in public areas alone. There is an explanation to this – prostitution is well-developed in the country, so there is a chance that men may consider a lonely woman to be engaged in the oldest profession in the world.

4. It is better to choose lagoons and bays surrounded by coral reefs for swimming in the ocean. It is not safe to swim in other areas because of sharks and dangerous amphibians.

5. Not only ocean waters can be dangerous – local fresh water can be full of blood-suckers and various infections, so it is better not to swim in areas not designated for this.

6. When it comes to insects, there are many mosquitos in rainforests. Malaria is widespread on the island, but some virus types are already resistant to popular treatments. It is necessary to undergo a special anti-malaria treatment course before the vacation and continue it when back home.

7. It may be problematic to pay with bills of greater nominations in local stores, so it is always a good idea to stock up on paper money in smaller denominations beforehand. Copyright www.orangesmile.com

8. Bargaining is not only possible but is also recommended! Sellers easily detect tourists and often tell a higher price. Tourists with enough patience and insistence can decrease the initial price almost twice.

9. Tourists, who are planning to purchase precious stones and polished emeralds, need to think of the certificate in advance. Otherwise, they are likely to have problems at the customs. The same applies to all plants, including dead and dry ones, and, of course, to animals.

10. Tips are not widespread in Madagascar, but tourists are always welcome to leave an extra 10% reward to the staff that tries to deliver an international level of service but doesn’t earn much.

11. Tourists must be prepared to the fact that a room in a five-star hotel will hardly fit four stars in terms of comfort and quality of service.

12. Unlike many other African countries, there are almost no beggars in Madagascar. Tourists should communicate with local people in a calm and friendly manner. The Malagasy are almost always hospitable.

13. Don’t forget about the dress code when visiting religious landmarks. The dress code is simple – do not put on anything provocative and revealing. Military clothing style is also a poor choice – local people will simply not understand this fashion. Moreover, there can be problems with the police.

14. Every part of Madagascar has its own taboos, so it is always a good idea to ask a guide about peculiarities of the region that you are visiting in order to avoid misunderstandings.

15. When attending some ceremony or visiting a house of local people, tourists shouldn’t forget to bring small gifts, such as alcoholic drinks, cigarettes, or food. Do not gift money.