text:
Alexandrov

Alexandrov (Александров) is a city in the north-western part of Vladimir Oblast. The location is known as a medieval residence of Russian princes. It was home to several important events in Russian history. The residence is now transformed into a convent and preserves noteworthy architectural sights, while the city is quite unremarkable.

Geography
Alexandrov is on the eastern edge of Klin-Dmitrov ridge, a series of hills lying north from Moscow. The city stands on the banks of the tiny river Seraya, the left tributary of the Sherna that further flows into the Klyazma. The area near Alexandrov is very typical for the central part of Russia: it is a nearly flat land with vast forests and small fields. Alexandrov is an important transport hub, the crossing of the principal Moscow–Yaroslavl railway and the circular railway line around Moscow (the so-called Big Ring of Moscow Railway). The M8 highway runs 25 km west from the city. A number of local roads pass through Alexandrov and offer connections to Kirzhach, Kol'chugino, Yuryev-Polsky, and to the cities of Moscow Oblast. The population of Alexandrov was 59,000 in 2018.

History
The settlement of Alexandrov is known since 14th century. However, the official foundation date is 1513, when Vasili III, the Grand Prince of Moscow, built a residence, fortifications, and first stone churches on the banks of the river Seraya. At that time, the settlement was known as Alexandrova sloboda or Alexandrovskaya sloboda, which means that it was an independent community exempt from taxes and duties. In 1564, Ivan the Terrible, the son and the successor of Vasili III, made Alexandrov his permanent residence. He suffered from defeats in the war with Lithuania and felt constant fear of treason. Then, he decided to leave Moscow and to escape from the nobility in Alexandrov. Alexandrov shortly became the actual center of the country: for example, one of the first printing factories appeared here in 1568. However, some negative things appeared as well.

To protect himself, Ivan the Terrible organized a special army called oprichnina. This army had superior rights and did not hesitate to rob and murder others (first of all, nobility and merchants). This made Alexandrov a strange and sorrowful place where Ivan the Terrible combined orthodoxal religiousness with the savageness and depravity. The flourish of Alexandrov lasted for 17 years, until 1581. In the fall of 1581, Ivan the Terrible killed his son (this accident is shown in the well-known painting by Ilya Repin) and left Alexandrov forever.

The town rapidly decayed and also suffered from Polish army during the Time of Troubles (1598-1613). In 1654, the former residence was transformed into a convent and later used as a place of exile. Alexandrov has been designated a town since 1778. It gained the regular rectangular layout and later (1870) hosted the Moscow–Yaroslavl railway. In 20th century, Alexandrov was strongly industrialized and lost nearly all of its original buildings. The industry of the city includes the production of electronics (such as TV sets of the well-known Rekord brand), crystals and diamonds, textile, and alcohol.

Orientation
As you arrive to the train and bus station of Alexandrov, you will find yourself on a large square, Komsomol'skaya ploschad (Комсомольская площадь). The street running perpendicular to the railway tracks is called ulitsa Lenina (улица Ленина). It will lead you through the central part of the city and finally bring you to another square, Sovetskaya ploschad (Советская площадь) with the easily recognizable Cathedral of the Nativity on it. Here the street changes its name to Sovetskaya ulitsa (Советская улица), runs downhill, crosses the river, and comes to the convent – the old Alexandrova sloboda. Following the same street after the convent, you will start a way east to Kol'chugino and Yuryev-Polsky.

Another important street is Krasnyi pereulok (Красный переулок) that runs perpendicular to ulitsa Lenina. You will get to this street from the north while arriving by car from the M8 highway (from Moscow, Yaroslavl, and many other destinations). Following the same street in the southern direction will bring you to Kirzhach.

Get in
Alexandrov is on the boundary of Vladimir Oblast. It can be reached easily from Moscow Oblast and from Yaroslavl Oblast, while the connections from Vladimir Oblast are less frequent. Alexandrov is usually visited together with Kirzhach and Yuryev-Polsky or on the way to Rostov Veliky and Yaroslavl.

By plane
The nearest international airport is in Moscow.

By train
Trains are preferable for travelling from Moscow, Yaroslavl, and Kirzhach: Additionally, there are two local trains from Dmitrov. If you travel from Vladimir, take a local train to Orehovo-Zuevo and change there to another local train to Alexandrov. The whole trip will take at least 4 hours, so the direct bus connection is recommended instead.
 * From Moscow: local trains run every hour. The trains depart from Yaroslavsky station, and the trip takes 2 hours. Additionally, there are 2 daily express trains to Yaroslavl and one express train terminating in Alexandrov. The express trains are slightly faster, but they require a "long-distance" ticket (see Russia:Get around for details). All the local trains make a stop at Sergiev Posad. A number of long-distance trains departing from Yaroslavsky station will also stop in Alexandrov.
 * From Ivanovo: one local train runs early in the morning, while two long-distance trains to Moscow travel during the night. The trip takes five hours. On the way to Alexandrov, you will pass through Yuryev-Polsky and Kol'chugino.
 * From Kirzhach: local trains every 1.5–2 hours (mind the gap in the afternoon), the trip takes 40 minutes.
 * From Yaroslavl: same to Moscow, but there are just two local trains per day (travel time 4 hours) and two express trains (2.5 hours). A number of long-distance trains running in southern direction can be used as well. You will pass Rostov Veliky on your way.

There are two railway stations in Alexandrov.

By bus

 * From Moscow: 3 buses per day (# 676), departing from VDNH metro station. The trip takes about two hours (mind longer trips during rush hours).
 * From Vladimir: 6 buses per day via Kol'chugino (3.5 hours).
 * From Yuryev-Polsky: 2 buses per day (2 hours).
 * There are several daily buses from Kirzhach. The town of Kol'chugino is another convenient transit point with buses to Alexandrov departing every 2–3 hours.
 * There are several daily buses from Kirzhach. The town of Kol'chugino is another convenient transit point with buses to Alexandrov departing every 2–3 hours.

By car
Alexandrov has road connections to the neighboring towns of Kirzhach (37 km) and Kol'chugino (40 km). From Kol'chugino, you can further reach Yuryev-Polsky (77 km) or Vladimir (120 km, via Stavrovo).

Moscow Oblast and Yaroslavl Oblast can be reached via the 25-km connecting road that joins the M8 highway in the village Dvoriki. The alternative way to Moscow Oblast is the road to Strunino and further to A108. The northern road to M8 (via Lukyantsevo) is not recommended due to the poor quality.

 * From Moscow: take M8 highway towards Yaroslavl, then turn right in the village Dvoriki (130 km; 50 km from Sergiev Posad).
 * From Vladimir: take M7 highway towards Moscow, then turn right, via Stavrovo and Kol'chugino (120 km).
 * From Yaroslavl: take M8 highway towards Moscow, then turn left in the village Dvoriki (190 km; 140 km from Rostov Veliky, 70 km from Pereslavl-Zalessky).

The parking space is available all round the city.

Get around
The central part of the city is rather small and easily explored by foot. The convent and the train station are found on the opposite sides of the city center (about 20 min walk). A number of city bus routes are available: in particular, buses # 4 and 7 run between the station and the convent.

Alexandrova sloboda
Alexandrova sloboda is the eldest part of the city and the former residence of Russian princes. It is niw the Assumption convent (Успенский монастырь) jointly operated by the Russian Orthodox Church and the museum. Sloboda is the must-see attraction in the whole city: come here to feel the quiet of ancient walls and churches and to learn something about Russian history. The present white-painted stone walls were built in 17th century and follow the general style of medieval Russian fortresses. Original ramparts from 16th century can be seen outside the walls. Inside the convent, you find several remarkable buildings:
 * Further buildings: church of Theodore Stratelates (надвратная церковь Феодора Стратилата: 1682, over-the-gate), church of the Presentation (церковь Сретения Господня: 1682, a small stocky building in Russian style), living chamber (келейный корпус: 1682, rebuilt in 19th century), and a number of small buildings from 18th – 19th centuries. These buildings are pretty regular, since they were constructed after the decay of the prince residence, as regular churches and houses in a regular monastery.
 * Further buildings: church of Theodore Stratelates (надвратная церковь Феодора Стратилата: 1682, over-the-gate), church of the Presentation (церковь Сретения Господня: 1682, a small stocky building in Russian style), living chamber (келейный корпус: 1682, rebuilt in 19th century), and a number of small buildings from 18th – 19th centuries. These buildings are pretty regular, since they were constructed after the decay of the prince residence, as regular churches and houses in a regular monastery.
 * Further buildings: church of Theodore Stratelates (надвратная церковь Феодора Стратилата: 1682, over-the-gate), church of the Presentation (церковь Сретения Господня: 1682, a small stocky building in Russian style), living chamber (келейный корпус: 1682, rebuilt in 19th century), and a number of small buildings from 18th – 19th centuries. These buildings are pretty regular, since they were constructed after the decay of the prince residence, as regular churches and houses in a regular monastery.
 * Further buildings: church of Theodore Stratelates (надвратная церковь Феодора Стратилата: 1682, over-the-gate), church of the Presentation (церковь Сретения Господня: 1682, a small stocky building in Russian style), living chamber (келейный корпус: 1682, rebuilt in 19th century), and a number of small buildings from 18th – 19th centuries. These buildings are pretty regular, since they were constructed after the decay of the prince residence, as regular churches and houses in a regular monastery.
 * Further buildings: church of Theodore Stratelates (надвратная церковь Феодора Стратилата: 1682, over-the-gate), church of the Presentation (церковь Сретения Господня: 1682, a small stocky building in Russian style), living chamber (келейный корпус: 1682, rebuilt in 19th century), and a number of small buildings from 18th – 19th centuries. These buildings are pretty regular, since they were constructed after the decay of the prince residence, as regular churches and houses in a regular monastery.

Secular buildings
In the city center, you will find further old buildings from 18th–19th centuries (note the street names: Советская, Первомайская, Военная, Ленина, Революции, Красной Молодёжи). All of them are, however, unremarkable.

Museums
The museums of Alexandrov are not very exciting. Artificial stones are really unusual, while the two other museums try to compensate the lack of exhibits by the intensive (and even useless) guidance. The reconstruction of the 19th century life is rather common for Russian museums and can be found elsewhere. To learn more about Marina Tsvetaeva, visit the museums in Moscow, Ivanovo, and Tarusa. Among the exhibitions, you find The must-see exhibition is one in the church of the Intercession (Tsar court in Alexandrova sloboda). Here you find the ivory carved throne of Ivan the Terrible and other original items from 16th century. You will also enter the church and watch the unique wall paintings inside the hip. Downstairs in the same building, one finds the original basement of the prince palace. Other exhibitions are fairly regular.
 * Palace of Ivan the Terrible – the reconstruction of the prince palace.
 * Treasures from three centuries – the collection of old books, icons, textile, and embroidery.
 * Tsar court in Alexandrova sloboda – the history of the prince residence and oprichnina.

Buy
In the city center, you find two large food supermarkets: Note also smaller shops at the following streets: Ленина, Советская, Революции.
 * Paterson (Патэрсон) – Красный пер. 2 (open daily, 08:00–22:00)
 * Pyatyorochka (Пятёрочка) – ул. Ленина, 1

Souvenirs are sold at Alexandrova sloboda: near the entrance and inside the convent.

Banks
Bank offices are equipped with ATMs. There are more ATMs throughout the city:
 * Moscow Industrial Bank – Красный пер. 21
 * Sberbank:
 * Октябрьская ул. 2
 * ул. Революции, 24
 * ул. Революции, 36 (central office)
 * Советский пер. 33 — south from Sovetskaya ploschad'
 * Sberbank:
 * Красный пер. 21
 * ул. Ленина, 13
 * ул. Ленина, 18
 * Октябрьская ул. 6 – near the railway station, 24/7
 * Moscow Industrial Bank:
 * Институтская ул. 1 – south-east from the railway station, 24/7
 * Красный пер. 2
 * ул. Ленина, 13
 * Октябрьская ул. 5, стр. 6
 * Советская ул. 4

Outskirts

While there are many places to eat, finding a really nice place can be difficult. Locals will often advise going to the neighboring town of Strunino (Coza Nostra), because most of the restaurants of Alexandrov suffer from typical Russian problems (unfriendly waiters, loud music and drunk people during the evening hours). If you are not too hungry, try the Soviet union coffee house, which seems to follow reasonable standards of quality. For a fast food, cheburechnaya will perfectly suffice.

Drink
Try alcoholic drinks produced by the local factory. Vodka, fruit spirits (nastoyki), and cognac are sold in food stores throughout the city.

Post office
The postal code of Alexandrov is 60165*. Offices in the city center:

Internet access
Internet connection should be available at the post offices.

Local destinations

 * Arsaki (Арсаки) – the village 20 km west from Alexandrov. The location is known for the monk's settlement (Смоленско-Зосимова пустынь), a 17th-century side settlement (skit) of the Trinity Lavra of St. Sergius (Sergiev Posad). Arsaki keeps nice examples of red-brick churches in Russian revival style from late 19th century. The buildings belong to the church, but they are inside the military territory. Entering this territory requires an ID and is likely problematic for non-residents.
 * Get in: local trains to Moscow or Dmitrov (every hour).
 * Bol'shoe Karinskoe (Большое Каринское) – the village 4 km south-west from Alexandrov (N56° 22.427', E38° 39.997'). The field near the village (Каринское поле) is a place of the battle between Russian and Polish troops in 1609, during the Time of Troubles. The monument commemorates this event.
 * Get in: buses and minibuses to Strunino (every hour). The bus should follow "via Karinskoe". There is an alternative route taking a different road.
 * Karabanovo (Карабаново) – the unremarkable industrial town 10 km south from Alexandrov. The red-brick industrial building from early 20th century, the constructivist building of the club, and the war memorial – it is likely all to see here.
 * Get in: local trains to Kirzhach, buses or minibuses every 15–30 minutes.
 * Lizunovo (Лизуново) – the village 20 km south-west from Alexandrov. The museum of Alexei Musatov, a Soviet writer.
 * Get in: no public transport.
 * Lukyantsevo (Лукьянцево) – the village 15 km north from Alexandrov (N56.5045°, E38.7132°). The late 16th century monastery (Свято-Лукианова мужская пустынь) preserves three Russian-style buildings from late 17th – early 18th century: church of the Nativity of the Theotokos, church of the Epiphany, and church of Ekaterina.
 * Get in: three buses daily.
 * Mahra (Махра) – the convent of St. Trinity (Свято-Троицкий Стефано-Махрищский женский монастырь), 15 km south from Alexandrov (N56.2705°, E38.6804°). The convent dates back to 14th century, but most of the buildings were destroyed during the Soviet period. The original buildings are the baroque-style church of Sergiy Radonezhsky (over-the-gate) and the church of Peter and Paul, both from late 18th century. You will also find a refectory building and living halls from late 19th century. The largest and the most impressive church of St. Stephan was rebuilt in 1997. The territory of the convent is well decorated and looks very picturesque during the summertime.
 * Get in: buses every two hours.
 * Strunino (Струнино) – the unremarkable town 10 km west from Alexandrov. Note the pretty regular church of Transfiguration (1893-1898), the ravaged red-brick industrial building from early 20th century, and few buildings in constructivism style.
 * Get in: local trains to Moscow, buses every 20–30 minutes.

Further destinations

 * Kirzhach – the small town interesting for its 16th century monastery.
 * Kol'chugino – one of the relatively new towns of the region. It lacks any important tourist attractions, yet the services (hotels and restaurants) may be useful.
 * Rostov Veliky – one of the main destinations of the Golden Ring, the ancient town with numerous remarkable monuments.
 * Sergiev Posad – the well-known destination with a huge ancient convent, one of the most important religious places in Russia.
 * Yuryev-Polsky – the ancient town with a unique 13th century cathedral and sleepy provincial atmosphere.

title: Alexandrov


text:
Alexandrovsk-Sakhalinsky

Alexandrovsk-Sakhalinsky (Russian: Алекса́ндровск-Сахали́нский, ah-leek-SAHND-ruvsk suh-khah-LEEN-skee) is a port town on the northwest coast of Sakhalin, on the shores of the Tatar Strait.

Understand
The first settlement on the island, Alexandrovsk was known as Akō (亜港) during the Japanese occupation between 1918 and 1925. For its first 30 or so years, it was the administrative center of Russian Sakhalin. But it is most famous for once being the short-term home of Anton Chekhov, where he wrote The Sakhalin Island. The penal colony that so horrified the famous author no longer exists, but the town retains its other two roles as a coal mining center and an important port on the island, home to about 12,000.

Get in
There is one daily bus between Tymovsk and Alexandrovsk (leaving 08:00), connecting with the daily overnight train between Yuzhno-Sakhalinsk and Nogliki which arrives at 07:51; any of the other departures on the railway would require you to overnight in Tymovsk. In the opposite direction there is a daily bus from Alexandrovsk at 17:00, allowing you to return south with the Nogliki – Yuzno-Sakhalinsk train at 21:10. Remember to double check all this before heading out, since schedules change.
 * Bus company (Александровское ПАТП) +7 (42434) 2-1060

Get around
Use your feet, it will do you good, and the town is not that big.

See
The sightseeing capital of the Far East this is not, but there are a few things even beyond the requisite Chekhov Museum. Look for the Three Brothers (Три брата), a set of three monolithic rocks jutting out of the water about 3 km west of the town, and the port's lighthouse, just south of the rocks, overlooking the green cliffs.

Other sights include:

Do
If you are resourceful, you might also get a local to direct you to the network of tunnels dug by prisoners at the katorga—a major 19th-century penal camp on the island.

license: Creative Commons - Attribution Share-Alike - https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/

title: Alexandrovsk-Sakhalinsky


text:
Alfred

There is more than one place called Alfred:

United States of America

 * Alfred (Maine) - A town in Maine.
 * Alfred (New York) - A town in New York
 * Alfred (North Dakota) - A town in North Dakota
 * Alfred (Michigan) - A town in Michigan.
 * Alfred (Ohio) - A town in Ohio.
 * Alfred (Texas) - A town in Texas.
 * Alfred Mills (Maine) - A town in Maine.
 * Alfred Station (New York) - A town in New York

Canada

 * Alfred (Ontario) - A town in Ontario.

title: Alfred


text:
Alfred (Maine)

Alfred is a city on the southern coast of Maine.

title: Alfred (Maine)


text:
Algarve

The Algarve is the southernmost region of Portugal, on the coast of the Atlantic Ocean. It is Portugal's most popular holiday destination due to the approximately of clean beaches, the cool, unpolluted water, and the fact that it is relatively cheap, very safe, and overall welcoming.

Cities
The cities of the Algarve are traditionally grouped into Barlavento (Windward) and Sotavento (Leeward), the western and eastern halves, respectively.

Barlavento

 * — the inland Algarve, superb food, nature and views
 * — close to famous surf spots
 * — town and municipality containing other destinations:
 * — near Europe's southwesternmost point
 * — narrow, winding streets, quaint shops and wonderful restaurants, with an old inner city inside the remnants of a protective wall.
 * — famous for its fresh fish restaurants and its many beaches. The municipality includes:
 * — a base for visiting the Ria de Alvor Nature Reserve, with a nice beach
 * — popular for its beautiful beaches, modern tourist accommodation, golf courses and cultural heritage. The municipality includes:
 * — picturesque fishing village
 * — first capital of the Algarve which has a Moorish red stone castle
 * — one of the most popular holiday destinations in the Algarve: lovely beaches, very good climate, with many restaurants, bars and pubs

Sotavento

 * — the capital of the Golden Triangle. The municipality includes:
 * — a wide, clean beach with clean water and a nice promenade
 * — the regional capital, a popular sun destination in the summer, and a base for exploring the surrounding area
 * — inland town with several sights and numerous bed and breakfasts
 * — a city near the Ria Formosa and Faro, the largest fishing port in the Algarve; full of character with Moorish-style houses
 * — a city near the Ria Formosa lagoon, one of the most monumental cities in Portugal, with its 37 churches
 * — it has a medieval castle, and a popular medieval festival in August
 * — on the eastern bank of the Guadiana river which forms the border to Spain
 * — landlocked town across from Spain on the Guadiana River

Understand

The Algarve (ahl-GAHR-v(ih), /aɫ.ˈgaɾ.vɨ/) is rich in culture and diversity. If you are looking for fast paced resorts or a calm tranquil setting either is attainable. The entire region is around. Although the number of permanent residents is under 500,000 the area receives more than tenfold that in tourism each year. The busiest times of year tend to be July and August.

History
Following the neolithic period of the regions history, approximately 1000 BC, settlements and trading ports were established by the Phoenicians who were attracted by deposits of copper, manganese and iron. They came from the coastal regions of the eastern Mediterranean of modern-day Syria, Israel and Lebanon. Circa 550 BC Portimão was one of the ports founded by the Carthaginians who came from North Africa. In the 2nd century BC the region came under the control of the Romans as they spread throughout the Iberian Peninsular. Many Roman ruins still remain today throughout the Algarve and can be seen in many areas, but the best to visit are probably at the Milreu ruins, from Faro, where buildings that started construction as a Roman villa later became a Christian Church.

Following the collapse of the Roman Empire, the Visigoths took control of the Algarve until the invasion of the Moors from North Africa in 711 AD. At this time, the Visigoths who came from central Europe, were defeated in the Battle of Guadalete by a force of invading Arabs and Berbers.

There followed a period of five centuries of Arab rule in Iberia. The Moors conquered the Algarve in 716. Faro, which had been called Santa Maria, was renamed Faraon, meaning 'the settlement of the Knights'. Even the name of the region owes its origin to the Moors who knew the region as 'al-gharb' meaning 'the west'. There is evidence of the moors throughout the Algarve and Southern Spain, illustrated by chimney stacks, pottery and the Moorish style of architecture, and particularly, the Arabic castle at Silves. The castle was built by Almoravid Arabs in the 11th century out of red sandstone and dried mud and is the best preserved Moorish castle in the country. In the 12th century, King Afonso III, with a little help from English mercenaries, finally evicted the Moors and once again the Portuguese dominated the region, although the area was not fully secure from Moorish attacks until the middle of the 13th century.

Born in Porto in 1394, Prince Henry the Navigator based himself somewhere around Lagos/Sagres, and is considered to be responsible for many of the 'discoveries' made by the Portuguese in the middle ages sending out expeditions to Africa, the islands of Madeira and the Azores. In 1419 he was appointed governor of the province of the Algarve.

Disaster struck on 1st November 1755, with a huge earthquake whose epicentre was reported to have been 200km South-West of the country and registering 9 on the Richter Scale. The coastal areas of the Algarve were devastated by the earthquake and subsequent tsunami. The devastation was not only limited to the Algarve, British naval reports from the period indicate the arrival of a huge wave in the port of Lisbon. The damage to Lisbon was almost total, and following huge political turmoil the person responsible for the reconstruction of the city was the Marquis of Pombal, the then Prime Minister.

Climate
The Algarve's geographical position on Europe’s south-western tip in the south of Portugal gives it some special bioclimatic features. Although situated by the Atlantic Ocean, it has a temperate climate with Mediterranean characteristics, more than 3,000 hours of sunshine per year and a low annual average rainfall, mainly during the winter months. Even in the hottest days in July and August a mild breeze from the Atlantic provides relief.

The Serra in the northern half of the Algarve has a considerable influence on the climate of the region. It forms a physical barrier against the cold winds blowing from the north and the lows from the Northwest, thus giving the Algarve coast an almost Mediterranean climate, with low annual rainfall and mild temperatures in winter. Furthermore, it is also a barrier for the misty winds that come from the South.

Talk
English is in general used as a business language and is spoken in the tourist areas, where restaurant menus are multilingual. If you are travelling in the interior, then you would do well to carry a pocket dictionary with you, and have Wikivoyage's Portuguese phrasebook at hand. Also in case you unexpectedly have to deal with the police, English may not always be understood. You should be careful with any impolite comments – many Portuguese people have spent some time abroad and may understand you better than you think.

Get in
International flights into Faro Airport then (1) by bus: national buses run from outside the airport to the bus terminal regularly throughout the day time on weekdays or (2) by taxi: will be under  from the airport to the train station.

By car
The toll motorway A2 leads to the Algarve from the north. You will need to allow approximately 2 hours for the 240 km drive from Lisbon to the A22 north of Albufeira.

From Spain the toll free A49 joins the A22 near Castro Marim in the Algarve after 145 km and about one and a half hours driving.

In the Algarve the toll motorway A22 Rua do Infante de Sagres goes from Lagos in the west to Castro Marim in the east at the Spanish border. Toll tariffs on the A22 depend on the distance and are recorded electronically only. Since the toll was introduced at the end of 2011 the parallel route of the national road EN125 is quite busy during rush hours, because many locals shy away from using the A22 for cost reasons. Cars with a foreign number plate have several options to pay the toll collected by an electronic system on the A22 motorway:

 * Toll Card: this card, valid for one year, can be charged with and needs to be activated by SMS, entering the license number.
 * Toll Service: you can have unlimited use of the A22 for 3 days after activation, for a one off fee of.
 * Easy Toll: Payment by credit card (Visa or Master Card), with the toll directly deducted from your bank account
 * Via Verde Visitors: renting a so called on board unit (OBU), a device that can be used both on roads with electronic or manual toll collection.

By plane
, the third largest in Portugal, is the main airport for the region. On arrival there is a wide selection of car hire options both at static desks in the airport and also within the terminal at a meeting point. From Faro airport the train station and bus terminals can be reached by taxi.

Outside the summer season some airlines reduce their direct flights to Faro, so that Lisbon Airport should be considered as alternative.

By bus
There are daily bus connections between Lagos, Olhao, Faro (and many other cities) and Spanish cities such as Seville and Huelva. A single ticket Seville-Faro costs with ALSA and the journey takes 2 hr. Flixbus also has a few connections per day for slightly higher prices.

By train
There are several daily train connections to Algarve operated by CP. Alfa Pendular (AP) trains connect Porto and Lisbon with Faro twice (sometimes three times) a day, making several stops on the way, journey time is 5½ hr or 3 hr, respectively. Intercidades (IC) trains connect Lisbon with Faro as well, they stop at more places and are a bit slower then AP. They run three times a day, journey time is 3½ hr. There is also one seasonal InterRegional (IR) train.

In Tunes it is possible to change for Regional (R) train to Lagos, in Faro to Vila Real de Santo António.

By boat
There is a ferry service between Vila Real de Santo António and Ayamonte (Spain). The ferry was once a main mean of transportation although after the construction of the Guadiana International Bridge it is nowadays mostly used by tourists. Naviera Armas operates a ferry to Portimão from Madeira (connecting with Gran Canaria) with a couple of departures per month.

By train
The Algarve Railway (Linha do Algarve) is a convenient possibility to get around Algarve. It connects Lagos in the west with Vila Real de Santo António on the border with Spain, calling at most towns and cities along the way (Portimão, Silves, Tunes, Loulé, Faro, Tavira, etc.). There is no direct train between Lagos and Vila Real d/S/A. Operated are usually Regional trains, between Faro and Tunes also Alfa Pendular, Intercidades and InterRegional trains. Journey from Faro to Lagos takes from 1h30min to 1h45min.

There is also one part of The Southern Railway (Linha do Sul; Lisbon - Tunes), although in Algarve are situated only two stops of this line - Messines-Alte and Tunes. These stations are served by Intercidades and InterRegional trains.

All trains are operated by CP.

By bus
Regional bus companies include Eva Transportes and Frota Azul Algarve. Algarve Bus website has a collection of bus information for Algarve region.

By car
A car is often the best way of seeing the Algarve, owing to the limited public transport services. Cars can be hired at Faro Airport and in other towns and cities in the Algarve. Most car rental companies will stipulate a minimum age of 21. Prices start from about a day for a small car and there is often a wide range of cars to choose from.

The Algarve has a good network of roads, but be aware that some country roads are little more than dirt tracks. Roads are however generally well maintained, however, road markings may randomly disappear (in this case stick to the right as far as possible - a favourite Portuguese habit is to overtake, still they are mindful). After many years, the A22 (IP 1) motorway was finally completed in 2007, which goes from Bensafrim in the west all the way to Monte Francisco on the Portuguese/Spanish border. The Algarve, like the rest of Portugal and mainland Europe, drives on the right.

Petrol stations are found all over the Algarve. All stations will sell standard unleaded (95 RON) and super (97 RON) and diesel. Some stations sell LPG (GPL) as well. Unleaded petrol is known as gasolina sem chumbo and diesel gasoleo. Petrol prices in Portugal are high in comparison to other European countries; as of August 2009 a litre of 95 RON unleaded costs around a litre, 97 RON super  a litre and diesel  a litre.

Do

 * Beaches — over 100 different beaches, each unique in its own way. Marinha Beach (Praia da Marinha) is one of the most emblematic and was considered by the Michelin Guide as one of the 10 most beautiful beaches in Europe and as one of the 100 most beautiful beaches in the world
 * Golf — If you are a golf lover then you have come to the right place, with over 30 courses dotted throughout the region.
 * Hike — there are over 30 hiking trails crisscrossing the region

Buy

 * Ceramics - the area is known for its hand-painted pottery and azulejos or tiles

Eat
The Algarve is famous for its hot and spicy Piri Piri Chicken, which can be found all over. Since it has a big and rich coast, it has a very interesting array of wonderful fish and seafood, from sardines to cataplanas, and many dry fruit sweets that will make your mouth water for more.

Drink
Medronho is a traditional fruit brandy, traditionally produced and drunk in The Algarve. Medronho can be fiercely potent and is available in variations ranging from unlabelled local homebrew bottles, moonshine style, to connoisseur tipples at more of a premium price range.

Sleep

 * Youth hostels (Pousadas de Juventude) can be found in the following places: Arrifana near Aljezur on the western coast, Alcoutim on the Guadiana river, Faro, Lagos, Portimão and Tavira.
 * Camping grounds: The Algarve disposes of more than 20 official camping grounds, mostly located on or near the coast.
 * Caravaning: To improve the service quality and security for auto caravaning, a new route for motor homers (Network for Motor-Caravanning in the Algarve Region/RAARA) was launched end of 2015, comprising 22 infrastructures in total.

Go next

 * Alentejo — rural plains region to the north
 * Évora — city full of historic sights
 * Huelva — province of Spain's Andalusia region
 * Lisbon — the nation's capital
 * Seville — closest major Spanish city
 * Fátima – city of the worldwide famous Marian apparitions with an international catholic shrine

title: Algarve


text:
Algeciras

Algeciras is a city in the Andalucia region of southwestern Spain. Most travellers come to Algeciras for its numerous ferry connections to Morocco and don't spend more than a few hours in the city. A shame, given the town's quiet charm.

Understand
The north-south coastal road, Avenida de la Marina, is Algeciras's main artery. The tourist information office (Calle Cervantes), is well signed from this road.

Orientation
Algeciras is on the Western side of Bahia de Algeciras (Algeciras Bay) virtually opposite Gibraltar. Roughly speaking, it is orientated north to south. The Avenida Virgen del Carmen is the main road that runs along the water front. The ferry port is about midway along the Abenida del Carmen: it can't really be missed as dozen of signs are pointing in its direction and there is constant ferry traffic in and out of the port. There is also an elevated heliport right in front of the ferry port.

The main shopping streets, together with the town square and central market, are set back behind the Avenida Virgen del Carmen and are mainly pedestrianised. There is a wide range of shops here, from local food shops and boutiques to the main brands.

The bus and railway stations are close together, about 300 m west (and slightly to the south) of the ferry port in the main town.

By train
From Algeciras there are daily train connections to Madrid. Three a day on the very picturesque route to Ronda and Granada.

The is 300 metres west of the port entrance. Just walk outside the station and straight down Calle Cervantes (the street in front of you) until you reach the Avenida de la Marina. You will see signs from here to the port.

By bus
Buses to main Spanish cities, 10 connections daily to Malaga (2-3 hours, ). There is a free shuttle bus between Algeciras and Tarifa for Tangier-Tarifa ferry ticket holders, 40 min ride.

The is just up the road from the tourist office, heading away from the port.

By boat
The is the heart of Algeciras and is well-signed from most roads in the city. Services from the following destinations arrive at the port:
 * Ceuta—daily services running about every hour from 08:00 - 22:15, 60-90 min trip,.
 * Tangier Med—daily services running about every 90 minutes from 07:00-22:00. Fast ferries (40 minutes+ 20 minute free bus, ) and normal ferries (2½ hours, ) are available. Note that Port of Tanger Med is the commercial port of Tangier, about 30 km from Tangier, and is different from Port of Tangier, which is served from Tarifa, Spain. (The French spelling is Tanger, the English is Tangier.)
 * Tangier - fast ferry (high speed craft by FRS or Inter Shipping) between Tangier and Tarifa (not directly to Algeciras) running hourly, ticket €35-40, duration 35 min. There is a free shuttle bus leaving for Tarifa terminal from the ticket offices at Algeciras' harbour one hour before the corresponding ferry's departure.

If you are headed for the bus station, you have to leave the port and walk about 7 minutes up the hill (opposite of the ocean).

By bus

 * Local bus information
 * Downloadable PDF of bus routes and frequency

See

Do
Places of natural interest include:

Eat
You'll find plenty of cheap bars, cafes and restaurants along the Avenida de la Marina, Calle Alfonso Once and around Plaza Alta. They stay open long into the night. Often not closing until the early hours.

 * LA CATA TAPAS algeciras, specialized on a wide variety of mini sandwiches. Very popular among locals, low prizes, tasty. Rudimentary knowledge of English but this is compensated by the super friendly staff. 3-5 canapés/montaditos make a good lunch.
 * LA CATA TAPAS algeciras, specialized on a wide variety of mini sandwiches. Very popular among locals, low prizes, tasty. Rudimentary knowledge of English but this is compensated by the super friendly staff. 3-5 canapés/montaditos make a good lunch.

Budget
If you're stuck in Algeciras after the last ferry or bus has left town, you'll find plenty of budget accommodation options in the neighbourhood around Avenida de la Marina. In the busy season, you can expect to get a double for a night.

There are a couple of basic hotels opposite the ferry port entrance:

Stay safe
Be careful with visiting neighbourhoods like Saladillo, Bajadilla or La Piñera.

title: Algeciras


text:
Alger

There is more than one place called Alger:

Algeria

 * Algiers (Alger in French) - The capital

United States of America

 * Alger (Michigan) - A town in Michigan.
 * Alger (Ohio) - A town in Ohio.
 * Alger (Washington) - A town in Washington.

title: Alger


text:
Algeria

Algeria (Arabic: الجزائر, al-Jazāʾir; Algerian Arabic: الدزاير, al-dzayir; Berber: ⴷⵣⴰⵢⴻⵔ, dzayer; French: Algérie) is the largest country in Africa. Overlooked by many travellers, the country is bursting with beauty waiting to be discovered. From the bustling markets of Algiers to the pristine beaches of its Mediterranean coast, from the jaw-droppingly beautiful mountains of the north to the mesmerising deep reaches of the Sahara desert to the south, there is something for almost everyone to explore. Enjoy traditional cuisine, explore the ancient ruins, take in the breathtaking views, and then breathe in a world where few travellers tread. Algeria, and in particular Algerian hospitality, will leave a lasting impression on your heart and mind.

Cities

 * (Arabic: الجزائر) — The capital of Algeria, and the nation's political and cultural center. It is a vibrant and multicultural city, with a mix of French, Arab, and African influences. The city is well known for its beautiful architecture, stunning beaches, and lively nightlife.
 * (Arabic:  عنّابة) — a town with 200,000 inhabitants in the east of the country next to the border of Tunisia.
 * (Arabic: باتنة) — the main city and commune of Batna Province, Algeria. With a population of 340,000, it is the fifth largest city in Algeria. It is also one of the principal cities of the Chaoui area and is considered the capital of Aurès.
 * (Arabic: بشار) — small city in the Sahara, not far from the Moroccan border.
 * (Arabic: قسنطينة) — Algeria's 3rd largest city with a canyon going down through it. Also known as "city of bridges" for having a lot of impressive and beautiful bridges.
 * (Arabic: وَهران) — Algeria's 2nd largest city after Algiers, also called "second Paris" or "Rai city " by Algerians, with many impressive buildings from colonial times and also being popular for making quality rai songs
 * (Arabic: سطيف) — the trade capital of Algeria, Setif El-Ali (The High) is the capital of high plateaus, with quite moderate temperatures and occasional snow falls in the winter.
 * (Arabic: تامنراست) — largest town in the south and starting point for expeditions to the Sahara and the Hoggar Mountains.
 * (Arabic: ﺗﻴﻤﻴﻤﻮن) — a small Saharan oasis town which makes a good base for trips to the desert.

Other destinations

 * – Roman ruins
 * El-Oued with its domed architecture, and nearby Grand Erg Oriental, the Sahara's second largest dune field
 * Hippo Regius, 2 km south of Annaba, an ancient Numidian city and early center of Christianity with well preserved Roman baths and forum
 * – fantastic architecture
 * – a UNESCO World Heritage Site in the Sahara desert
 * – Roman ruins

Politics and government
Algeria is officially known as the People's Democratic Republic of Algeria. Although the term "People's Republic" is commonly associated with communist states, Algeria is not a communist country. The term was adopted primarily because Algeria gained its independence through a revolutionary struggle against France.

Algeria is a multi-party republic with a strong executive branch led by a president. The president is both the head of state and the commander in chief of the army, and is elected by popular vote for a five-year term.

Legislative power is vested in the two chambers of Parliament, the Council of the Nation and the People's National Assembly.

Name transcriptions

 * Arabic: الجمهورية الجزائرية الديمقراطية الشعبية, al-Jumhūriyya al-Jazāʾiriyya ad-Dīmuqrāṭiyya aš-Šaʿbiyya

 * Berber: ⵜⴰⴳⴷⵓⴷⴰ ⵜⴰⵎⴳⴷⴰⵢⵜ ⵜⴰⵖⵔⴼⴰⵏⵜ ⵜⴰⴷⵣⴰⵢⵔⵉⵢⵜ, Tagduda tamegdayt taɣerfant tazzayrit

 * French: République algérienne démocratique et populaire (lit, Democratic and Popular Algerian Republic)

Geography
Algeria covers an area of 2381741 km2, making it the world's tenth-largest country and the largest country in Africa. It is slightly larger than Mexico, four times smaller than the United States, and nearly 200 times larger than Africa's smallest country, Gambia.

Algeria is made up of 58 provinces and more than 1,541 communes.

Early history
The history of Algeria can be traced back to the earliest civilisations that inhabited the region and beyond. The earliest known inhabitants of Algeria were the Berber people, who have inhabited the region since at least 10,000 BCE. From the 8th century BCE, Phoenician traders established trading posts along the North African coast, introducing the region to the wider Mediterranean world.

In the 7th century CE, Algeria was conquered by the Islamic Umayyad Caliphate and subsequently came under the rule of various Muslim dynasties. The region was colonised by the Ottoman Empire in the 16th century and remained under Ottoman control until 1830.

French Algeria (1830-1962)
French rule in Algeria began in 1830 when France invaded the region, defeated the Ottoman forces, and established a colonial administration. Algeria was formally annexed and split into French departments in 1848.

French authorities introduced a number of reforms, such as land reform, the secularisation of education, and the introduction of new laws and infrastructure. However, these policies were often accompanied by oppressive measures such as forced labor, restrictions on religious expression, and the suppression of opposition.

Algerians were treated very poorly by the French. Algerians were subjected to oppressive laws, such as the Code de l'indigénat, which denied them basic rights and freedoms. They were heavily taxed, forcibly conscripted into the French military, and stripped of their land and resources. Algerians were also subjected to violence, torture, and other forms of mistreatment by French colonial authorities.

The Algerian War (1954-1962)
The Algerian War for Independence was a bloody eight-year conflict between the French colonial government in Algeria and the National Liberation Front (FLN), a nationalist movement that sought to end French rule and establish an independent Algerian state. The war lasted from 1954 to 1962 and resulted in the death of over 1 million people, the displacement of over 5 million people, and the eventual independence of Algeria as a nation.

The Algerian War for Independence began on November 1, 1954, when the FLN launched a series of attacks against French military and police outposts throughout Algeria. The FLN hoped to spark a popular uprising against French rule, and the attacks were largely successful. The French responded with a massive campaign of repression, employing torture, summary executions, and collective punishments against the population.

The war soon escalated, with the FLN launching guerrilla attacks against French forces, while the French launched counter-insurgency operations that included the use of napalm and other forms of indiscriminate violence. The war was also characterized by atrocities on both sides, including the massacre of civilians by French forces and the use of torture by the FLN.

The war ended in 1962, when the French agreed to a cease-fire and granted Algeria its independence. After declaring independence in 1962, Algeria underwent a period of political turbulence.

Post-war period (1962-1991)
Immediately following independence, the FLN assumed power and established a single-party government. Under the leadership of President Houari Boumediene, Algeria adopted a socialist economic system and sought to strengthen ties with other Arab and African countries.

In the late 1970s, Algeria’s economic situation deteriorated and the government’s popularity declined. In response, the government began to crack down on political dissent and religious expression, leading to an Islamist insurgency.

Algerian Civil War (1991-2002)
The Algerian Civil War was a brutal conflict that caused great suffering to the Algerian people. Over 200,000 people lost their lives in the war, and more than 1 million were displaced. The conflict also had a lasting effect on Algeria's economy and society, as the country struggled to rebuild after the war. Although the conflict officially ended in 2002, its legacy continues to shape the country today.

The conflict began with the cancellation of the 1992 general elections, which saw the Islamic Salvation Front (FIS) poised to win a majority of seats in the National Assembly. The Algerian government, a military-backed regime, responded by banning the FIS and arresting its members, sparking a long and bloody conflict.

The war was fought between the government and various rebel groups, most notably the Armed Islamic Group (GIA) and the Islamic Salvation Army (AIS). The GIA initially sought to overthrow the government and impose an Islamic state. As the conflict progressed, however, they became increasingly brutal and indiscriminate in their tactics, leading to a sharp decline in popular support. The AIS, on the other hand, sought to negotiate with the government for a peaceful resolution to the conflict.

Throughout the war, the government employed a range of tactics to combat the rebels. These included a massive deployment of troops, aerial bombardments, and the use of torture and other forms of human rights abuses. The government also sought to co-opt the population by providing economic incentives and social services, such as free health care and education.

Present history (2002 - present)
Since the end of the civil war, Algeria has experienced an economic boom due to increased oil and gas production. This has led to a marked reduction in poverty and unemployment.

In 2006, the Algerian government approved a new constitution, which aimed to protect human rights and improve the country’s political and economic situation. This resulted in a period of political reform, as well as an increase in foreign investment.

Despite its economic progress, Algeria is still facing several challenges. These include high unemployment, poverty, and corruption. The country is also struggling with terrorism, with attacks by extremist groups such as Al-Qaeda in the Islamic Maghreb (AQIM) and Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (ISIL/ISIS/IS).

Electricity
Officially, 220 V 50 Hz. Outlets are the European standard CEE-7/7 "Schukostecker" or "Schuko", or the compatible, but not always grounded, CEE-7/16 "Europlug" types. Canadian and US travellers should pack an adapter for these outlets if they plan to use North American electrical equipment in Algeria.

Get in
Algeria is not a country you can just show up to and get in; most visitors require a visa to visit the country and the government hasn't exactly opened up the country to the rest of the world.

Visa requirements
Citizens of Libya, Malaysia, Mali, Mauritania, Morocco, Western Sahara, Seychelles, and Tunisia can enter the country without a visa.

If you're not a citizen of any of the countries listed above, you are required to apply for an Algerian visa at an Algerian diplomatic mission.

Obtaining an Algerian visa can be challenging, as the process often involves heaps of paperwork and high fees. For example, the Algerian Embassy in the United States usually charges US$160 for any kind of Algerian visa and the Algerian consulate in Alicante charges €95 for visas for Spanish citizens staying up to 90 days.

As a general rule of thumb, the longer you intend to stay, the more expensive the visa will be.

Visa application requirements

An Algerian diplomatic mission can be found in almost every country. If your country does not have an Algerian diplomatic mission, you may need to travel to another country to apply for an Algerian visa.

Although visa requirements vary from country to country, you're typically asked to submit the following to apply for an Algerian visa:
 * A copy of your passport (must have a validity of more than six months)
 * Two passport-sized photographs.
 * Two visa application forms.
 * A notarized letter of invitation (required if you plan to stay in the home of an Algerian resident)
 * A copy of your travel itinerary.
 * A copy of your hotel reservation.
 * A copy of your bank statement.

Special requirements

 * Citizens of Syria must demonstrate they have enough funds ( if they've been sponsored or if they have no sponsor) to cover their stay in Algeria.

By plane
Most visitors normally enter Algeria by plane.

The main international airport and point of entry in Algeria is Houari Boumediene Airport, which is situated in Algiers, the capital city. The airport is well-served by intercontinental flights.

By train
The Algerian train company is named SNTF and tickets can be bought at train stations. On-line booking does not appear to be possible any more; timetables are subject to changes; the best way is to ask at the train station. The network in the north is dense. You can reach Algeria by train from Tunisia, although you will have to change trains at the border post. All border points with Morocco are closed.

If you can, try to catch the newer trains as they are more comfortable and climate-controlled.

By car
Algeria shares borders with six countries: Tunisia, Libya, Niger, Mali, Mauritania, and Morocco.

From Tunisia
Driving into Algeria from Tunisia is the safest option.

From Morocco
The Algerian-Moroccan border has been closed since 1994 and will remain closed for the foreseeable future.

If you like, you're more than welcome to visit settlements along the border.

From Libya
The poor security situation in Saharan Algeria, the risk of terrorism, and the fluid security and political situation in Libya make the Algerian-Libyan border insecure, and the two border posts have been closed since 2011. It is not possible to legally cross from Algeria to Libya by land.

From Mauritania
There is one, new official border crossing (opened February 2024) near Tindouf, which at least some people have had success crossing.

From Mali
The poor security situation in Saharan Algeria, the risk of terrorism, and the unstable political situation in Mali make the Algerian-Malian border incredibly insecure, and it is unlikely foreign tourists would be able to get anywhere close to the border, let alone cross it legally.

From Niger
The poor security situation in Saharan Algeria, the risk of terrorism, and the unstable political situation in Niger make the Algerian-Nigerien border incredibly insecure, and it is unlikely foreign tourists would be able to get anywhere close to the border, let alone cross it legally.

By boat
The prices aren't usually cheaper than flying so if you can and have no car nor any huge amount of baggage, take a plane. Most connections are offered by Algérie Ferries.

From Spain:
 * Alicante to Algiers and Oran
 * Almeria to Ghazaouet and Oran
 * Barcelona to Algiers
 * Valencia to Mostaganem

From France:

Marseille to

 * Algiers
 * Bejaia
 * Oran
 * Skikda

From Italy:
 * Napoli to Tunis & take a road for 1 hour
 * Roma (Civitavecchia) to Tunis & take a road for 1 hour

Get around
With an area of 2,381,741 km2, travelling between major cities in Algeria can take a lot of time and can be dangerous if you don't know what you're doing.

By plane
Due to the country's immense geography, the uncertain security situation, and the lack of adequately developed infrastructure, the most convenient way of getting around the country is by plane.

Algeria has a very small airlines industry ― only four airline companies operate in the country ― and all the airline companies are owned by the government.

The two main airline companies are as follows:

 * Air Algérie is Algeria's national carrier and offers flights to almost any Algerian city. The airline uses Houari Boumediene Airport as its hub.

 * Tassili Airlines, like Air Algérie, uses Houari Boumediene Airport as its hub and will take you all over Algeria. It is a subsidiary of Sonatrach, the largest company in Africa and one of the largest oil and gas companies in the world.

By taxi
It's usual to take a taxi to travel near or in cities. The prices are pretty moderate but when travelling between bigger cities with large distances taxis are the same or more expensive as flying. Try to avoid unofficial taxis since it's very likely the driver will rip you off. Most taxis have no taximeter so arrange a price in advance. Many drivers will try to take advantage of your lack of knowledge but never pay more than DA30 per km regardless of what you are told. Tipping is not necessary but you can round up to the next DA10.

Uber doesn't operate in Algeria, but a similar app named Yassir does.

By car
The road network is well developed in the north. The Algerian government has made much improvements regarding road building; new highways were built to replace the older roads. The most important highway is the 1200 km long N1 (Route est-ouest) from Annaba to Oran, almost all bigger cities in the north are connected to this highway including Algiers.

A car is not absolutely necessary because of the well run public transportation system, but could be sometimes useful to reach more remote areas. Keep in mind that the driving habits of the locals are completely different compared to those of Europeans and that driving rules and prohibitive signs are more seen as guidelines, even by the police! It would be a wise decision letting a local Algerian do the driving for you in the first few days to get an impression of the driving style. If this is not possible it's recommended to stay on the highways.

Do not try to reach the Saharan areas with a car other than a 4x4: occasional dunes on the roads and extreme temperature changes will offer a challenge for the driver and the car.

As of 2018, fuel did not cost more than DA50 a liter.

By train
Algerian railways are operated by SNTF; the trains and lines are being modernised. Ten comfortable high-speed trains named Autorail were bought, and two of them are in operation. Though the website is useful for checking times etc, tickets can not be bought online, only at the train stations. Prices are quite moderate but more expensive than buses or taxis, but in return you will have more comfort and enjoy wonderful landscapes.

Main routes:

Other routes:
 * Algiers to Oran, five daily departures from Agha Station, this journey takes 4-5 hours, 2nd Class: DA900-1130, 1st Class: DA1200-1530.
 * Algiers to Annaba, departing each evening at 19:40 and arriving in Annaba (via Constantine) at 05:38 the following morning. 2nd Class: DA900, 1st Class: DA1270.
 * Algiers to Constantine as above
 * Algiers to Touggourt, departing daily at 18:10, arriving in Touggourt at 05:00 the following morning. 2nd Class: DA1500, 1st Class: DA2005.
 * Oran to Bechar, two daily departures. A daytime train leaves Oran at 10:20, while the night-train leaves at 20:30. 2nd Class: DA975, 1st Class: DA1370.
 * Annaba to Tebessa, leaving Annaba at 16:40 and arriving in Tebessa at 21:49. 2nd Class: DA255, 1st Class: DA360.

By tram
Algeria has one of the most developed tram networks in all of Africa. As of 2023, there are tram networks in six major cities: Algiers, Oran, Constantine, Sidi Bel Abbes, Ouargla, and Setif.

The agency responible for the operation and maintenance of the tram network is Société d'exploitation des tramways (SETRAM).

Getting around Algeria by tram is remarkably economical; a ticket typically costs. You may buy a ticket at a designated tram kiosk and you can get all the information you need at a tram kiosk.

Overview of the tram system in Algeria:
 * Algiers: 23 kilometres long and has 37 stops.
 * Oran: 32 kilometres long and has 19 stops.
 * Constantine: 18 kilometres long and has 21 stops.
 * Sidi Bel Abbès: 14 kilometres long and has 22 stops.
 * Ouargla: 10 kilometres long and has 16 stops.
 * Setif: 15 kilometres long and has 26 stops.

By cable car
Due to its highly mountainous and massive geography, Algeria has an extensive cable car network.

See
Algeria is brimming with hidden treasures, offering a wealth of sites for the brave and curious.

Ancient ruins
Algeria, much like neighbouring Libya, takes pride in its remarkable ancient ruins. Step back in time and explore the remnants of the Phoenician, Roman, and Byzantine civilizations that have left an indelible mark on this land. Embarking on a journey to these magnificent ruins will transport you back in time and unveil the fascinating history of Algeria's ancient civilizations.

Prepare to be awe-inspired by some of the most renowned archaeological sites in Algeria:

 * Timgad near Batna: Immerse yourself in the grandeur of this ancient Roman city, known as "The Pompeii of Africa." Marvel at the well-preserved ruins.

 * Hippo Regius at Annaba: Walk in the footsteps of history at this coastal city where the famous philosopher Saint Augustine once resided. Explore the impressive remains of Roman structures, including a basilica and amphitheater.

 * Djemila at Sétif: Delight in the splendor of this UNESCO World Heritage site, once a Roman military colony. Admire the well-preserved forum, temples, houses, and stunning mosaic artworks.

 * Calama at Guelma: Uncover the secrets of this ancient Roman city, renowned for its exceptional mosaics. Roam through the ruins of temples, basilicas, and the intriguing Roman theater.

 * Tipasa: Immerse yourself in the rich historical tapestry of Tipasa, where ruins from the Phoenician, Roman, and Byzantine empires coexist. Marvel at the archaeological site, which includes a theater, amphitheater, basilica, and captivating views of the Mediterranean Sea.

Saharan desert
Algeria's greatest tourist possibilities lie in the Sahara; there's no other place on Earth that can offer the same level of awe-inspiring experiences in this vast desert landscape.

The crown jewel of these adventures lies within the M'zab Valley, the epicenter of Mozabite culture. Prepare to be captivated by the five interconnected cities that form a breathtaking architectural playground, reminiscent of modern cubist and surrealist art. These cities are not just places to see, but experiences to be lived, leaving an indelible impression on your journey.

Marvel at the harsh yet majestic Saharan Atlas mountains, their rugged peaks standing as a testament to the forces of nature. Traverse the endless expanse of the desert and explore the towering Hoggar Mountains surrounding the desert capital of Tamanrasset.

Feel the thrill of adventure as you encounter the vast dune field of the Grand Erg Oriental at El-Oued, an otherworldly landscape that will leave you in awe.

Uncover Algeria's ancient history etched in stone as you discover the remarkable rock carvings of Djelfa and the Saharan National Park of Tassili N'Ajjer. These extraordinary sites showcase a treasure trove of prehistoric art, transporting you back in time and connecting you with the rich cultural heritage of the region.

Major cities
While Algeria's major cities may not boast the same level of tourist attractions as its exotic locales, they offer a unique perspective on the country's modern culture, Islamic heritage, and colonial legacy. Prepare to be pleasantly surprised by the lesser-known treasures that lie within.

 * Algiers, the renowned White City, may not be as heavily touristic as one would expect, considering its pivotal role in Algeria's economic, political, and cultural life. Nevertheless, as all visitors pass through Algiers, exploring the historic seventeenth-century center known as the Casbah is a must. Wander through its labyrinthine streets, immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere, and witness the blend of influences from various civilizations.

 * Oran, the country's second-largest city, boasts a captivating blend of modernity and historical charm. Discover its vibrant arts scene, visit the iconic Santa Cruz Fort, and indulge in the city's lively ambiance.

 * Tlemcen, a city steeped in history, will captivate you with its architectural marvels, such as the Grand Mosque and the beautiful Mansourah Mosque.

 * Constantine stands as a major city deserving a spot on your itinerary. Known as the City of Bridges, it showcases a fascinating fusion of Roman, Arab, and Ottoman influences. Marvel at the impressive bridges that span deep gorges, explore the ancient ruins of Tiddis, and soak in the rich cultural heritage of this remarkable city.

Beaches
Algeria boasts stunning Mediterranean beaches that will captivate beach lovers. Experience the vibrant marine life with beautiful fish, enchanting sea plants, and an array of stunning shells. The shores offer a variety of sands, from yellow and white to black. Whether you enjoy fishing, swimming, or simply basking in the beauty of a breathtaking sunset, Algeria's beaches have it all. The Turquoise Coast in Oran stands out as one of the country's finest beach destinations, perfect for relaxation. Annaba, Skikda, and Ghazaouet also offer beautiful coastal spots. For visitors near Algiers, the resort town of Sidi Fredj is an undeniable gem.

National parks
Algeria is more than just a barren, flat, hot desert country. The country boasts an array of beautiful national parks brimming with natural beauty.

Do
Algeria is full of Roman ruins & 10th-century desert towns. Some of which are:

 * Tassili N'Ajjer National park: A national park in southern Algeria with tons of cave arts and dramatic sandstone formation.

 * Monument of the martyrs: Iconic monument honoring independence, the people who died for the country, and veterans.

 * The church of Nôtre Dame of Africa: a Catholic church with dramatic views in Oran

 * Hamma scientific Experiments Park: gracious 19th-century botanical gardens.

 * Fortaliza de Santa Cruz: mountaintop fort with scenic city views.

 * Ketchaoua Mosque: grand mosque build in 17th-Century.

 * Royal Mausoleum of Mauritania: Likely a tomb of an Egyptian princess in Tipaza, Algeria.

 * Grand mosque of Algeria: Minarets viewing platform and a huge hall.

 * Tikja: Winter ski resort with hiking in the summer. Located in El asnam, Algeria.

 * Chrea National Park: Treks and a ski station amid a wooded peaks.

 * Algiers Grand Post Office: Grand colonial-era post office.

 * Prince Abdel Kader mosque: Landmark mosque with 2 tall minarets.

 * Timgad Roman Ruins: Tons of Roman Ruins, Ancient Roman architecture, and ancient history located here.

Talk
The official languages of Algeria are Arabic and Berber. Many Algerians are multilingual.

Algerian Arabic (also known as Darja), the local vernacular, is spoken natively by about 75-80% of the population. Algerian Arabic is often considered to be more difficult than other dialects due to its unique features and regional variations. The dialect is used primarily in informal and spoken communication and is not typically used for formal or written communication. If you don't know the local dialect, do not despair; all Algerians learn Modern Standard Arabic at school, so you should have no problems communicating in major cities.

Algerian Arabic has a lot of similarities with other Maghrebi dialects, including Tunisian and Moroccan Arabic. If you have some knowledge of Moroccan Arabic, you should have no problems getting by since Moroccan and Algerian Arabic are, to a significant extent, mutually intelligible.

Many Algerians who were born during French colonial rule (prior to the 1960s) are unable to read or write Arabic.

Kabyle is the most commonly spoken Berber language and is primarily spoken in cities such as Bejaia, Bouira, and Boumerdes. Berber was made an official language after major protests in 2002, and the language is taught in Algerian schools.

French, although it has no official status, has been referred to as the "lingua franca" of Algeria. It is taught in Algerian schools from an early age, and it is widely used in everyday business. French is often used to transliterate Arabic words. For example, the name Yasin is transliterated as Yacine. Although many Algerians are competent in French, particularly those older than 35, many Algerians consider the language as a painful reminder of French colonial rule and in schools it is being deprioritized by the government in favor of English. However, this trend is reversed in Kabyle areas, where French is still widely spoken, including by younger people, and people will be happier to hear French than they will to hear Arabic, since in Kabyle areas, Arabic is seen as the "oppressor's language". Regardless of whether you speak French or Arabic in the "wrong" place, if you are a foreign tourist, people will be welcoming regardless of whether you are speaking a "culturally negative" language.

English is gradually gaining popularity as a preferred language for learning, although a significant majority of Algerians have limited to no knowledge of it. Highly educated Algerians may be competent in English. The Algerian government is actively promoting the language, but some, including politicians in France, see this as an attempt to diminish French influence in the country.

Money

Algerian currency is the Algerian dinar, denoted by the symbol "د.ج" or "DA" (ISO code: DZD). There are coins of DA5, DA10, DA20, DA50, DA100 and DA200. Banknotes are issued in denominations of DA100, DA200, DA500, DA1,000 and DA2,000.

Money can be exchanged at banks or post offices. Make sure the exchanged bills are in good condition; people tend to be picky with accepting ripped and older bills. Be careful with currencies other than euros or US dollars: finding a bank that exchanges less common currencies could be complicated.

A better exchange rate can usually be found by exchanging money through unofficial money changers on street corners. There are locations where this is a widespread practice. The exchange rate offered is generally better than the official rate. It seems to be a very safe practice and is often done in view of police, who don't seem concerned.

ATMs are widely available and can be found in every post office or larger bank where you can withdraw Algerian dinar with any major credit card and Maestro cards. If a pin with six numbers is necessary, enter two zeros before your pin.

Many Algerian-branded ATMs don't work for foreign cards (even when showing that they support Mastercard or Visa). You may have luck with Societé Générale ATMs.

Generally speaking, Algeria is very cash-based, and most establishments won't accept credit cards. Some hotels do (in particular larger establishments), but many don't. Bringing an ample supply of Euros or US dollars in cash can result in much cheaper travel by taking advantage of the much better exchange rates offered by the unofficial exchange market, as mentioned above.

Although the Algerian dinar has had a relatively stable exchange rate with the Euro and Dollars for the past 10 years, there still exists a significant parallel ("black") currency exchange market. Parallel exchange rates in between August 2018 and 2024 have remained around DA215-DA240 to the euro at the parallel market versus around DA145 at the official Forex market rate. Thus, travellers willing to exchange euros will be roughly 50% more purchasing power. The parallel market is de facto permitted in Algeria despite being de jure illegal. You will not find normal exchange houses, not even at the airport. For instance, the main square for parallel currency exchange in downtown Algiers is done fully under the eyes of a heavy police presence, ensuring safety in the location despite the large volumes of cash changing hands in public.

Costs
Algeria is a remarkably economical country; an underground metro ticket normally costs and the monthly rent for an apartment, depending on the area, is between  per month.

will get you a full meal or a bus ride from one major city to another.

Eat
Algerian cuisine is a mix of Mediterranean and North African flavors, with a strong French influence. Algerian cuisine is full of flavorful dishes such as tagines, couscous, and pastilla. Despite its rich flavors and vibrant ingredients, Algerian cuisine is not as widely known or appreciated as other Mediterranean or North African cuisines. Still, that shouldn't stop you from fully experiencing Algerian gastronomy.

 * Fettate (Sahara speciality, in Tamanrasset)
 * Taguella (bread of sand, a nomad speciality)
 * Couscous (steamed semolina with sauce containing meat and/or potatoes, carrots, courgette, and chick peas)
 * Buseluf (cooked lambs head)
 * Dowara (stew of stomach and intestines with courgette & chick peas)
 * Chorba (a meaty soup)
 * Rechta (hand made spaghetti, usually served with a clear chicken broth, potatoes & chick peas)
 * Chakchouka (normally, it has green peppers, onions and tomatoes; egg may be added)
 * Mechoui (charcoal grilled lamb)
 * Algerian pizza
 * Tajine (stew)
 * Mhadjeb (A dish which is a kind of flaky pancake made from semolina traditionally stuffed with onion, tomatoes, garlic, pepper, and spices)

Desserts and snacks
 * Qalb El Louz (Sweet dessert made from layers of buttery semolina and ground almonds. Flavoured with orange blossom and a honey syrup, it is bursting with flavours and summery aromas. Each slice is topped with a whole almond for a lovely crunch.)
 * Baklawa (Almond cake consists of many layers of very thin dough carefully hand crafted and drenched in honey)
 * Ktayef (A kind of baked vermicelli, filled with almonds and drenched in sugar, syrup, and honey)

Drink
Algeria produces a selection of wine (not in big volume) and also beer. Algeria was once famous for its high quality wines. The new production is also of very high quality, particularly the red wine. Locally produced beer is also of a very high standard. Algeria is a majority Muslim country, so you do not find alcohol sold everywhere, but it is not hard to find it. Wine and alcoholic drinks are sold in the few bar restaurants in the big cities, better hotels, and night clubs. Some bar/restaurants can be found in nice parks, so if you are in a nice wooded park, look for the restaurants. The fast food restaurants that are open and affordable to the public do not sell beer, and the coffee shops do not sell alcohol. If you visit Algiers or coastal cities, there are fish restaurants in almost every fishing port, the fishing is traditional and the fish sold is very fresh; usually, these restaurants sell alcohol but you have to ask (do not expect to see it, some times it is on the menu, some times not).

Finally, you can buy your own bottle of Algerian wine to take home in discreet shops that sell alcoholic drinks. It is better to buy it at the Algiers airport, though expect to pay per bottle. In smaller towns, buying alcoholic drinks can be challenging; you usually find them at the edge of the towns in sketchy areas and the conditions in which the alcohol was kept are sometimes questionable. Some Muslims drink but they consider it a sin. It is in private but socially. If someone invites you into his home and does not offer alcohol, he expects you not to be drunk or smell of alcohol, and does not expect you to bring your own bottle or even discuss drinking alcohol in front of his wife and children.

Non-alcoholic
 * Mediterranean juices (grenadine, orange)
 * Very sweet green tea
 * Strong coffee

Sleep
Finding suitable accommodation in Algeria is not a challenging task, as the country offers a wide range of housing options, including luxury hotels and budget-friendly alternatives. For those seeking a luxurious experience, beautiful deluxe rooms for couples are available at prices ranging from per day. Conversely, low-budget tourists can find rooms priced as low as per day. Luxury hotels provide an array of services, including cafeterias, bars, restaurants, nightclubs, and pools, ensuring a delightful stay.

During the summer season, which spans from June 15 to August 31, many property owners rent out houses and cottages along the Mediterranean Sea, particularly in the area from Port Say (Marsa Ben M'hidi) to El-Kala. Prices for these rentals vary depending on the number of rooms, usually ranging from  per month, inclusive of electricity. It is advisable to make advance reservations through acquaintances or travel agencies to secure the desired accommodation. Additionally, many Algerians utilise internet ads for housing rentals, although it is recommended to send a trusted individual to inspect the property before making any payments, as some offers may appear attractive but prove to be deceptive.

Another notable attraction is the Meskoutine Hammam complex, which offers various amenities such as spas, pools, and more. Situated near a mesmerizing waterfall that boasts a natural hot water source with a temperature of 98 °C (208 °F), this site holds the distinction of being the second most sought-after hot spring in the world, surpassed only by the geyser in Iceland. The prices for bungalows in this complex vary depending on the number of rooms, typically ranging from per day.

Under current Algerian laws, non-Algerians are not allowed to purchase real estate in Algeria.

Learn
Although education is free and mandatory for Algerians aged 6 to 15, the Algerian educational system has been criticised for being poorly maintained. Very few travellers, if any, take advantage of learning opportunities in the country. Unless you're fluent in either Arabic, French, or both, learning opportunities in Algeria are unlikely to be of interest to you.

The oldest and most prestigious university in the country is the University of Algiers.

Work
Employment opportunities in Algeria are limited and rates of pay are low. A lack of economic diversification, a poor educational system, rigid labour conditions, a high dependence on oil and gas revenues, and restrictive regulations on foreign investment all contribute to the country's poor labour market. Successive Algerian governments have done little to create enough employment opportunities for people.

One seldom manages life in the country effectively without knowing either Arabic, French, or both, so try to acquire the necessary language skills. Doing so will open many doors for you.

The largest employer in Algeria is the Algerian government and the government employs 30-40% of the Algerian workforce. If you manage to secure employment in Algeria, there's a good chance you might end up working for the Algerian government because the government has controlling stakes in many Algerian companies.

Algerian companies are hierarchical and there are set expectations for both senior managers and junior employees. Senior managers are generally expected to be decisive and demonstrate leadership qualities, and junior employees are generally expected to follow their superiors at all times.

While being a foreigner puts you at an advantage (Algerians generally trust foreign skills more than local skills), the importance of doing things the "Algerian way" cannot be overstated. Taking too much time to make a decision, showing no interest in doing tasks, not having good morals, not greeting superiors properly, and openly disagreeing with your superiors will undoubtedly distance you from people.

It is not unusual for Algerians to hire their close friends and family members. Algerians do not see this as an unfair practice; rather, they consider it gratifying to help others in need.

The working week typically runs from Sunday to Thursday. Friday and Saturday are rest days.

The Algerian authorities do not take too kindly to people abusing Algerian immigration laws; a lot of migrants from West Africa and the Sahel often try to enter Algeria illegally (without any paperwork and documentation) in search of better opportunities in Algeria. Many of these migrants work as labourers. Given Algeria's proximity to Europe, some migrants try to enter Europe.

Stay safe
Do not travel to or in Saharan Algeria overland if you have no experience with driving in desert areas or knowledge of Algerian roads. The area is sparsely populated (which means help is limited), and you can get lost easily if you don't know what you're doing. For this reason, access the area by plane.

Do not travel after nightfall; travel by plane if you can, instead of by car; travel with public transports; avoid minor roads; ask the police or gendarmes if you are unsure about your surroundings. Check the travel advice on the Australian, Canadian, Irish and New Zealand government websites.

Travel is heavily discouraged for Jews, as antisemitism is ubiquitous in Algeria. Do not speak about any aspects of Judaism or Israel, and if you do happen to be Jewish, don't reveal it.

Political unrest
Since gaining independence in 1962, Algeria has experienced a long history of political instability. Anti-government protests and demonstrations are not uncommon, and they can turn violent pretty quickly.

Do not take part in political protests or make strongly worded comments against the government on social media; people, including dual citizens of Algeria, have been prevented from leaving the country for doing that.

Be vigilant and aware of your surroundings; if you see any signs of a protest or disturbance, you should leave the area immediately and seek a safe place.

It is strongly recommended that you monitor and listen to local media during your stay in Algeria.

Extreme weather
90% of the country is covered by the Sahara desert. Algeria is a very hot country and temperatures can go as high as. Be sure to hydrate often and wear appropriate clothing to deal with the heat.

Terrorism and banditry
Areas near the borders with Niger, Mali, and Mauritania are unsafe due to general lawlessness. Generally speaking, tourists have little or no reason to go to those areas as they have nothing that interests tourists. The exception to this is the Tadrart Rouge, which is on near the border with Niger but which is safe for travel. Note that although the security situation in Libya has significantly improved in the past few years, the two border crossings with Libya and Algeria, at Ghat and Ghadames, remain closed for the foreseeable future (updated Jul 2024).

Antiquities
Algeria has strict laws concerning the export of antiquities. If you buy a souvenir that looks old or antiquated, try to obtain the necessary documentation for it. Better to be safe than sorry. Not doing so will land you in serious trouble with the Algerian authorities.

Photography
Algeria may be replete with wonderful photo opportunities, but you should steer clear of photographing government buildings, security installations, or military/law enforcement personnel.

LGBT travellers
As is the case throughout the Arab world and the Middle East, homosexuality is frowned upon by the vast majority of Algerians. Open display of such orientations may result in open contempt and possible violence.

Racism
Algeria is, to a significant extent, a welcoming country. Hospitality is a cornerstone of Algerian culture, and Algerians consider it shameful not to give a guest a warm welcome.

This being said, Black-skinned people may be incorrectly assumed to be migrants from the Sahel and may attract unwanted attention from the authorities.

Algerian dual citizens
If you are an Algerian citizen – being a dual citizen of Algeria or having an Algerian father – possessing another passport will not exempt you from mandatory military service (applicable to men only) and grant you consular access and protection in the event you get detained or arrested.

Women travellers
If you are married to an Algerian, you do not require permission from your husband to depart the country.

Foreign women often attract the attention of Algerian men. Being overly friendly to or making direct eye contact with an Algerian man may cause him to think that you're "into" him.

Be warned that some men may sexually harass you. If this ever happens, don't be afraid to create a scene and don't feel the need to be polite; no woman should put up with rotten behaviour like that.

Stay healthy
Although Algeria has a universal healthcare system that covers all citizens and provides free medical care at public facilities, the public healthcare system is notorious for being poorly maintained; the system has been beset by underfunding, understaffing, overcrowding, corruption, and mismanagement. In addition, expect little to no help if you're not proficient in Arabic, French, or both. The COVID-19 pandemic exacerbated many of the problems facing Algeria's already troubled healthcare system. Private medical facilities are generally much better equipped than public medical facilities.

Medical care in Southern Algeria, particularly in the Sahara, is virtually non-existent, even for non-citizens. If you’re planning a trip to the area, it’s advisable to bring your own medical supplies.

Algeria is sometimes struck by localized power cuts during summer in the south, which means that refrigerated foods may go bad. Therefore, you should keep that in mind when eating in restaurants, as the likelihood of getting food poisoning is always there.

Mosquitoes are also a problem in Algeria, but they are just a nuisance, as malaria is not common. In urban areas, there is periodic city-wide spraying against mosquitoes.

Do not expect very good water quality in southern Algeria, for drinking you can buy bottles of water instead of drinking tap water, they are cheap at DA40 for 1,5L, so 5L of good water costs less than US$1.

Respect
Algerians, North Africans, and Arabs in the Gulf share a common culture; therefore, much of what is considered good manners in the Arab world applies to Algeria.

Honour is an important cornerstone of Algerian culture and forms the basis of all relationships in the country. Algerians believe that turning down someone's request causes them to lose honour. Be smart about what you say openly — criticising someone in public or making someone look bad in front of others can cause an Algerian to lose their honour, i.e., lose face. While it's not a crime to publicly shame someone in Algeria, Algerians are generally remarkably sensitive to strongly worded comments and won't hesitate to react with anger if you do anything that makes them feel unvalued and disrespected.

Ask questions about or show some interest in Algerian history, geography, tourist attractions, and culture; this will get Algerians to like and respect you. As is the case anywhere, Algerians appreciate good comments about their country, customs, and culture.

Show respect to elders. Act politely around someone older than you or in a position of authority, and do not say or do anything that would make them feel challenged.

The terms "brother" and "sister" are often used to address people. They are not considered offensive.

Algerians generally value their privacy. That being said, it's not rude to ask if someone's married or if they have children.

Politics
Domestic politics are both highly sensitive and polarised. Algerians, in general, have a strained relationship with their government and it is common for them to express feelings of frustration, annoyance, and anger towards their government and politicians. While it's not a social faux pas to discuss politics, try to avoid stating your opinion on local politics; Algerians may not appreciate what you have to say.

Avoid talking about Morocco. Although there are strong cultural, religious, and historical ties between the two nations, Algerian-Moroccan relations have been strained by several social and political issues.

Avoid being overly enthusiastic about France. The French occupation of Algeria was a period of great suffering for many Algerians. Thousands of Algerians were arrested, imprisoned, tortured, exiled, and mistreated by the French, and Algerians feel that France hasn't done enough to acknowledge the harm it has caused to Algeria. In France, Algerians are sometimes discriminated against and treated with a degree of contempt. If you are of French-Algerian heritage, you should be extra careful; demonstrations of enthusiasm for France might get you labelled as a "harki" (a historically contested term with negative connotations) or a "traitor".

Ethnicity is a very sensitive subject in Algeria. The Berbers, who make up 15-20% of the population, have a long history of being mistreated by the Arab-dominated Algerian government and have long struggled for autonomy and cultural rights. It would be considered awkward to ask an Algerian about what their ethnicity is; it could cause them to believe that you are questioning their loyalty to Algeria. Keep in mind that some Algerians believe that Algeria is not an Arab country.

Try to not discuss the Algerian Civil War. Tens of thousands of Algerians perished during the war and it is still a wound in the national consciousness.

Religion
Islam is the state religion of Algeria, and is, at least on paper, practiced by 99% of the population. That being said, there's no special dress code in effect and Algerians are generally not as religious as their Arab counterparts. Algerian dress styles are generally similar to European dress styles. It's advisable to dress conservatively so that you don't stand out like a sore thumb.

 * When visiting sites of religious importance, behave and dress well. Some mosques may be off limits to non-Muslims. If in doubt, ask.

 * During Ramadan, you should refrain from eating, drinking, smoking, and chewing in public. Not doing so would be seen as insensitive and disrespectful.

 * Anything hinting at proselytism will neither be appreciated nor welcomed.

Smoking
All cigarettes are sold freely.

Smoking in the presence of someone who is not a smoker in a public place requires his permission. If someone does not like the smoke, coughs, or asks you not to smoke, just stop and say sorry. This is what the locals do. If you are invited to someone's house, do not smoke unless the host does and after he does, you can ask for permission to smoke.

If you are in a restaurant or coffee terrace where people smoke, you can smoke, but if you are with locals who are not smokers, ask them first if it is okay. Fewer and fewer people smoke, because of a global health awareness campaign.

If you are a non-smoker, you will still find it unpleasant in many public places because of smoking.

Mobile phone connections
There are 3 main mobile services in Algeria - Mobilis, Djezzy and Ooredoo (previously Nedima). It is easy to procure a pre-paid sim card for one of these operators at any airport. In February 2022, a SIM card with 60 GB of data was sold by Ooredoo for DA2500. There are several general stores all over the country which will sell you refill cards for these carriers. 3G services were launched on 1 December 2013, and 4G is available in a selection of major cities by all carriers.

Internet connection
The only internet provider is the government owned Algerie Telecom which offers ADSL internet with speeds that vary from 1 Mbps to 20 Mbps and prices of DA1600 to DA7200 respectively. 4G LTE is also available, but speeds are very slow and service is not very good in rural areas.

title: Algeria


text:
Alghero

Alghero is a beautiful town on the north-western shore of Sardinia, Italy. It is best known for its beautiful beaches, unique food, and also for its Catalan heritage; in fact, it was known in the past as la Barceloneta sarda, little Sardinian Barcelona. This historic town is one of the most popular destinations for Sardinia's visitors.

Understand
In Alghero's, Catalan: L'Alguer atmospheric narrow lanes you'll find numerous bars and cafés. Its restaurants are renowned for excellent seafood. The surrounding area brings many delights for those who venture out of the city. These include the famous beaches at La Pelosa - Stintino, the eerily abandoned mining town of Argentiera and the ancient palace complex at Nuraghe di Palmavera.

By plane

Connections by regional buses to Alghero (every hour, 20-minute trip), Sassari (9 per day, 30-minute trip), Bosa, Nuoro, Macomer, Oristano, Cagliari. In Jun-Sep there are also buses to Stintino & Santa Teresa Gallura. Tickets can be bought at the ARST ticket vending machine.

By car
Alghero is easily accessible by road from Sassari, passing the airport near Fertilia. Another way to get to Alghero is from Bosa, by the sea-side road, which is quite narrow and winding but has incredible views.

If staying in the old town, free parking can be found in and around the Piazzale della Pace.

By train
The railway station is about fifteen minutes walking distance from the centre of town and marina.

By car
The city centre has a limited traffic zone (ZTL) (map and hours). Most vehicles are prohibited from accessing it most of the time. Cameras are in operation and fines apply, even if you're in a rented car.

See

Religious architecture:

Secular architecture:

Liberty villas along the Lungomare Dante and the Lungomare Valencia:

Beaches
The coastal road south of Alghero is beautiful, an unspoilt and protected panorama of sparkling sea, lush vegetation, and rocky mountains. It leads to Bosa, a small medieval town, which has a distinctive and living historic center and many points of interest.

Near Alghero, accessible by car, is the spectacular Capo Caccia/Porte Conte Bay, well worth a visit.

 * Scuba diving - The area with the Marine Reserve Capo Caccia/Isola Piana is one of the best dive destinations in Europe.
 * Caving
 * Climbing
 * Mountain Biking
 * Bird watching
 * Hunting
 * Archaeology
 * Botany

Buy
Alghero is famous for its red coral jewelry and silverware. All coral jewelry is unsustainably harvested from living wild coral reefs that form important ocean habitats. Ethical travellers should avoid buying any sort of coral jewelry.

Eat
As in most parts of Italy food in Alghero is an important thing. The town's fishing port provides seafood fresh from the sea. Make sure that you try Catalan lobster, lobster salad with raw tomatoes and onion. Ricci (sea urchins) are also very popular in Alghero with a festival being held in their honor around February during the "Sagra del Bogamarì".

Basically, anywhere in town is good, as long as you avoid the tourist restaurants with "il menu turistico".

Budget
All these are in the city centre:

Drink
Take in the beautiful views at cafe Latino located on the battlements overlooking the harbour. There are also lots of late night bars on the Lungomare Valencia that get going at around about midnight. Local drinks are limoncello, mirto and some local wines that they serve in all restaurants.

Also you should not miss the Bar La Perla in Viale Sardegna. It serves great cappuccino.

Sleep
There are a whole number of possibilities for accommodation in Alghero from bed and breakfasts to Agroturismos (farm stays) and hotels. You can pick up a list of B&Bs at the friendly Tourist Information office.

In the offseason, rates range from for one person. Expect prices to double in July and August.

Capo Caccia
See Neptune's Grotto, which includes the "Goat's Staircase" and under water the limestone cliffs continue creating the most vaste underwater marine cave system, Nereo Cave is the bigger and famous with its huge halls and tunnels.

 * Tourist agencies organise boat excursions to the other caves: Grotte Navisarda and Attilio Regolo.
 * Tourist agencies organise boat excursions to the other caves: Grotte Navisarda and Attilio Regolo.

Other destinations

 * Sassari is a good destination for a pleasant half day trip
 * Bosa is a quaint old town further to the south

title: Alghero