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Swansea

 * This article is about the urban area of Swansea. The Swansea Rural is covered in a separate article.

Swansea (pronounced: Swan-zee; Welsh: Abertawe) is a city on the beautiful Gower Peninsula — the United Kingdom's first designated "Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty". With a population approaching 250,000 (2016), it is the second largest city in Wales and is known for its Blue Flag beaches and stunning coastal walks.

Districts

 * Swansea Urban (this article) — from north to south covering areas from Morriston and Clydach to St. Thomas and Swansea Bay sea front and from east to west covering areas from Port Tennant to Caswell. Swansea Urban includes the city centre and the tourist areas of the Maritime Quarter, Mumbles, Limeslade, Langland and Caswell.
 * Gower Peninsula — covering all points west of Bishopston, Pwll Du Bay, Fairwood Common and Upper Killay, and also including the highland areas of Pontarddulais and Mawr.

History
During medieval times, Swansea was a prosperous market town, later gaining a certain prominence as a spa resort. It was during the industrial revolution, however, that the city flourished and its population grew. The city is home to the world's first passenger railway service known as the Mumbles Train, which bumped and bounced along five miles of Swansea foreshore, linking the city centre with the suburb of Mumbles. Much of the city centre's architectural heritage was lost through wartime bombing. However, the abundance of parks, stunning coastal scenery, lovely water-side suburbs, a magnificent bay-side maritime quarter, varied cultural events, medieval castles and golden sandy beaches have preserved Swansea's place as a major tourist destination. Furthermore, according to a survey conducted by an international health magazine that considered, among other factors, a city's crime rate, life-style, environment, etc., Swansea was judged to be the most relaxed city in the UK, while two national surveys have ranked the city as the third friendliest place in the country with regard to customer service and the safest urban area in the UK.

The name 'Swansea' is derived from 'Sweyn's ey,' which meant the island belonging to Sweyn (Sven) in Old Norse, the area having been settled by Scandinavians in the Middle Ages. Abertawe, by contrast, means 'mouth of the river Tawe'. Locals are known as Swansea Jacks, after a hero dog who rescued no fewer than 27 people from drowning during his seven-year life in the 1930s; Jack's memorial is on the promenade in Brynmill, close to the university.

Dylan Thomas was passionate about Swansea, and in his early days described it as an "ugly, lovely town, crawling, sprawling, slummed, unplanned, jerry-villa'd, and smug-suburbed by the side of a long and splendid curving shore." Later, he referred to it as "the most romantic town I know," and described it with great gusto as a "marble town, city of laughter, little Dublin" and screamed triumphantly "Never was there such a town!"

Incidentally, the Swansea seaside resort of Mumbles derives its name from the French word mamelles, meaning "breasts"; take a look at the two islets off Mumbles Head from across the bay, and it is easy to see why.

Climate
Swansea has a wet and mild climate, with winter temperatures ranging from around 4 to 6°C, while the summer average high is about 20°C but often reaching to 26 or 27°C. Sun lovers should visit Swansea from June to August, which is the period that records the most hours of sunshine and is the main tourist season. However, those who prefer long solitary walks along cliffs paths or contemplative strolls through wooded valleys should consider September and October. During these months, the air is crisp and fresh and the area quiet, with most tourists having already departed. However, as Wales is one of the wettest areas in the UK, you should always prepare for rain when visiting the region. Even in the summer, pack some rain gear and an umbrella in your luggage.

Talk
Although it definitely has character, Swansea dialect (especially from east-side) can be hard to understand for the uninitiated.

The following usages are to be heard in Swansea:

 * bye-yer = here (example: "Put it bye-yer" means "Put it here.")
 * ewe = you (example: "Alright, arr ewe?" means "Are you OK?")
 * likes = like, (example: "I likes it" means "I like it")
 * now = often used as an affirmative, not be taken literally (example: "I'll come over now later" just means "I'll come over later.")
 * tidy = not to be mistaken as a command to clear up something, but a statement of approval, meaning "I agree" or "that is acceptable".
 * fair dues = to give someone credit (example: "He is not rich, but fair dues he's always happy to lend money to his friends." means "He is not rich, but give him credit. He's always happy to lend money to his friends.")
 * there's = that's, how or what (example: "There's lovely" means "That's beautiful" or "How nice", whereas "There's a mess!" would in more standard English be expressed as "What a mess!")
 * butt/butty = friend/buddy. (example: "How're you doing, butt?" means "How are you doing, mate/friend?")
 * mun = used at the end of a statement for emphasis purposes (example: "Hurry up, mun, or we'll be late").
 * cowin' lush = not to confused with a fertile plain for herbivores, but a statement akin to approval (example: "That curry I 'ad last night was cowin' lush mun".
 * Evening Po = an abbreviated term for Evening Post (the Swansea evening newspaper) called out by road side vendors.
 * In addition, there is a tendency for those with a strong accent to speak in the third person. So if someone walks up to you and says, "eye nose ewe", don't be surprised. They are merely expressing the fact that they recognize you (i.e. "I know you")!

The Swansea accent is more noticeable in blue collar areas of the city, whereas in more affluent areas people speak with a more refined Welsh accent. However, even in these areas Wenglish phrases like "Uch a fi!" (dirty) can still be heard.

About 16% of Swansea's population can speak and read Welsh in addition to English, though the majority of these are residents of the northern suburbs (i.e. those closest to the counties of Powys and Carmarthenshire). People from the original town of Swansea, east-side, Mumbles and South Gower were not traditionally Welsh speaking, and so there are far fewer Welsh speakers in these areas.

By car

 * The M4 motorway links the city to Cardiff and London, with connections to the M6, M5, M32, M42 and M50. The main junction for Swansea is 42, but 43, 44, 45, 46 and 47 also lead off into Swansea

By bus

 * A convenient way to spend the day in Swansea city centre is to use one of the three Park and Ride systems National Park and Ride Directory. One is based at Landore on the A4067; leave M4 at junction 45. The eastern 'Park and Ride' operates off the A483 (Fabian Way), which is the main artery into Swansea when coming off the M4 (junction 42) from the east buses on this route follow an express bus lane into the city centre. The western 'Park and Ride' operates off the A483 (Carmarthen Road) in Fforestfach. There is a £1.50 charge per car that includes all-day parking and return bus travel for up to 4 passengers, and the system operates from Monday to Saturday from 6:45AM to 7:30PM.
 * A convenient way to spend the day in Swansea city centre is to use one of the three Park and Ride systems National Park and Ride Directory. One is based at Landore on the A4067; leave M4 at junction 45. The eastern 'Park and Ride' operates off the A483 (Fabian Way), which is the main artery into Swansea when coming off the M4 (junction 42) from the east buses on this route follow an express bus lane into the city centre. The western 'Park and Ride' operates off the A483 (Carmarthen Road) in Fforestfach. There is a £1.50 charge per car that includes all-day parking and return bus travel for up to 4 passengers, and the system operates from Monday to Saturday from 6:45AM to 7:30PM.
 * A convenient way to spend the day in Swansea city centre is to use one of the three Park and Ride systems National Park and Ride Directory. One is based at Landore on the A4067; leave M4 at junction 45. The eastern 'Park and Ride' operates off the A483 (Fabian Way), which is the main artery into Swansea when coming off the M4 (junction 42) from the east buses on this route follow an express bus lane into the city centre. The western 'Park and Ride' operates off the A483 (Carmarthen Road) in Fforestfach. There is a £1.50 charge per car that includes all-day parking and return bus travel for up to 4 passengers, and the system operates from Monday to Saturday from 6:45AM to 7:30PM.

By plane

 * Heathrow Airport has daily arrivals from the widest number of places around the world to the UK. By rail, take the RailAir coach service from Heathrow Central Bus station and change at Reading Railway Station for trains direct to Swansea. By Coach, National Express provide a coach service from Heathrow Central Bus station to Swansea.
 * Cardiff Airport, approximately 50 minutes drive to Swanesa. There are arrivals from various places in Europe. By rail, take the train from Rhoose Cardiff International Airport Railway station and change at Bridgend.

By train

 * Great Western Railway (+44 8457 484950 (inquiries)) offers a very frequent express service from London Paddington station which stops at Reading, Swindon, Bristol Parkway, Newport, Cardiff Central, Bridgend, Port Talbot Parkway and Neath.
 * Transport for Wales runs local trains throughout Wales including the West Wales lines with services to Pembroke, Milford Haven and Fishguard.
 * West Wales services, west of Swansea. After leaving Swansea, the train follows the contours of the coast. A left-side seat will give you the best view:
 * The famous Heart of Wales Line runs between the medieval town of Shrewsbury and Swansea, passing through some of Wales' most spectacular scenery and picturesque towns during its 3 hr 40 min journey. Trains depart Swansea at 4:36AM, 9:15AM, 1:17PM and 6:21PM.
 * There are direct trains from Manchester Piccadilly to Swansea operating hourly during the daytime M-Sa, and every two hours during the daytime on Sundays. The journey time is about 4 hours 20 minutes. This service calls at Crewe, Shrewsbury, Hereford, Newport and Cardiff.

Airport connections
Travellers arriving from Heathrow Airport have the option of taking the shuttle bus to Reading and boarding the westbound train there — this saves travelling into London — or taking the Heathrow Express high-speed rail link to London Paddington station. This service runs every 15 minutes from terminal 1, 2, 3, or every 23 minutes from terminal 4 and takes 15 minutes: £13 (single); £25 (return).

Travellers arriving from Cardiff Airport can take a train to Swansea. However, this requires a change at Bridgend. Services are provided by Arriva Trains.

By bus
Bus company First Cymru maintain frequent services connecting all suburbs of Swansea and the Gower Peninsula. All buses depart from the bus station, and there are connecting links to/from Swansea's railway station. Visitors travelling to the Mumbles have the option of taking buses heading to these final destinations: Oystermouth (synonymous with Mumbles and the final stop is in the village), Limeslade (includes stops at Mumbles Square, Verdi's Cafe and Mumbles Pier), Langland, Newton and Caswell. All buses on these routes also make stops at St. Helen's Stadium, Swansea University/Singleton Park and Blackpill Lido.

First Cymru offer a one-day "FirstDay" bus pass for the Swansea urban area. It costs £4.00 per adult before 9:30AM and £3.50 after 9:30AM.

By taxi
There are several taxi ranks in the city centre. One is found at High Street Station for rail connections and one is at Swansea Bus Station for bus/coach connections. A taxi rank beside St. Mary's church serves city centre shoppers. The taxi rank on Caer Street next to Castle Square is the most convenient for people returning home after a night out on Wind Street.

Landmarks

 * Historical buildings. Much of Swansea city centre was destroyed in wartime bombing. Still, there are large pockets of the historic centre that survived, and they have been painstakingly restored. Some of the best examples of Georgian and Victorian architecture can be found on Wind Street (pronounced Wined), with Salubrious Passage (linking Wind Street with Princess Way) being almost exclusively Georgian, though the accolade for oldest buildings in that area goes to Swansea Castle and the Cross Keys (inn), which are respectively relics of the 13th and 14th centuries. At the bottom end of Wind Street and across the main thoroughfare leading from the M4 into Swansea are several lovely Georgian terraces, with Somerset Place and Cambrian Place perhaps being the most stylish. The Dylan Thomas Centre on Somerset Place also represents a fine example of Doric style Georgian architecture, and the area (which leads onto the marina) also has an impressive mixture of Victorian and Edwardian buildings, such as the colonnaded neo-classical style Swansea Museum (1841) and Morgan's Hotel (1903). Across town, Alexandra Road offers some fine examples of baroque revival Edwardian architecture, with the Glynn Vivian Art Gallery acting as the focal point. British visitors may immediately recognize some of Swansea's historic streets as they have been featured in the popular TV series Doctor Who.
 * Historical buildings. Much of Swansea city centre was destroyed in wartime bombing. Still, there are large pockets of the historic centre that survived, and they have been painstakingly restored. Some of the best examples of Georgian and Victorian architecture can be found on Wind Street (pronounced Wined), with Salubrious Passage (linking Wind Street with Princess Way) being almost exclusively Georgian, though the accolade for oldest buildings in that area goes to Swansea Castle and the Cross Keys (inn), which are respectively relics of the 13th and 14th centuries. At the bottom end of Wind Street and across the main thoroughfare leading from the M4 into Swansea are several lovely Georgian terraces, with Somerset Place and Cambrian Place perhaps being the most stylish. The Dylan Thomas Centre on Somerset Place also represents a fine example of Doric style Georgian architecture, and the area (which leads onto the marina) also has an impressive mixture of Victorian and Edwardian buildings, such as the colonnaded neo-classical style Swansea Museum (1841) and Morgan's Hotel (1903). Across town, Alexandra Road offers some fine examples of baroque revival Edwardian architecture, with the Glynn Vivian Art Gallery acting as the focal point. British visitors may immediately recognize some of Swansea's historic streets as they have been featured in the popular TV series Doctor Who.

Parks and scenic sites

 * The Gower Peninsula: the first area in Britain to be designated an "area of outstanding natural beauty". Its stunning scenery extends from sandy beaches, to hidden coves and lush country-side. In addition, (including the ruins of Swansea castle) there are seven medieval castles to explore. Home to Oxwich Bay, named the most beautiful beach in the UK and one of the most beautiful in the world by The Travel Magazine in 2007.
 * The Maritime Quarter: a bay-side development. The swinging masts and sails of the three marinas offer a great backdrop to the theatres, museums, hotels, cafes, bars and restaurants that jostle for positions in this tight little corner off the city centre. The south-side faces the sea, where there are great views over Swansea Bay and the Mumbles Head.

Cycling
Swansea is connected to the National Celtic Cycling Trail, and there are four main routes in city. Bikes can be rented at the following city centre stores:

Driving
There are some wonderfully picturesque drives in Swansea. Below are a couple of popular ones:

 * City centre - Mayals - Bishopston - Caswell Bay - Langland Bay - Bracelet Bay - Limeslade Bay- Mumbles - city centre.

To start this drive, take the A4067 Mumbles Road from the city centre and turn right onto B4436 Mayals Road. Follow road over Fairwood Common and take a left at Bishopston Village. From there, follow signs for the above places.

This drive takes in some beautiful coastal scenery. Recommended stops: Verdis café (Mumbles, Swansea Bay sea front), Castellamare café (Bracelet Bay sea front), and Mumbles Village (see listing under 'See').

 * City centre - Uplands - Killay - Parkmill - Reynolston - Rhossili - Llangeneth - Oldwalls - Killay - Uplands - city centre.

To start this drive, take A4118 through the bed-sit suburb of Uplands and then Killay. Finally, after leaving Upper Killay, the road passes through the heart of the Gower Peninsular. Follow signs for the above places.

This drive passes through some quintessential British countryside and culminates at stunning Rhossili Bay. Recommended stops: Parkmill is the location of the Gower Heritage Centre, with its working water wheel, and Shepards' village store and café is a good place to take refreshment. Near the village of Reynolston, you can take a short detour onto Cefn Bryn to see Arthur's Stone (see listing under 'See'). Also, in Reynolston is the beautifully renovated country inn, 'the King Arthur's Hotel', which is an excellent place for lunch. At Rhossili, there are tea houses, but the attraction here is definitely the stunning views.

As you drive along the beautiful country lanes with the smell of freshly cut grass pervading the air and the vista of a wide blue bay opening before you, the words of a famous Buddhist master — 'the journey is the goal' — will never ring truer!

Golf
Swansea has a number of excellent golf courses, many with spectacular sea views:

Live music
Bars and cafés that provide life music:

Sports

 * Cricket: Swansea is one of the home locations of the Glamorgan County Cricket Club, one of the 18 major county clubs which make up the English and Welsh domestic cricket league. Glamorgan play at St Helen's Stadium.
 * Football: Swansea City ('the Swans') play soccer in the Championship, the second tier for England and Wales. Their home ground (capacity 21,000) is the Swansea.com Stadium in Landore / Plasmarl SA1 2FA, a mile north of city centre.
 * Rugby Union:
 * Ospreys are a profession team playing in the United Rugby Championship (formerly Pro-14), the predominantly Celtic super-league. Their home ground is St Helen's Stadium.
 * Swansea RFC (the 'All Whites') play in the Welsh Premiership, with their home ground at St Helen's Stadium.

Swimming

 * Many of the bays on the Gower Peninsular are great for swimming. However, the most popular are the sandy bays of Langland and Caswell. Both these beaches are under seasonal lifeguard supervision, offer changing and toilet facilities and are in easy reach of the city centre.

Walking
Swansea is a great place if you are into walking. Here are a few easily accessible routes:
 * Swansea Marina to Mumbles Pier: about five miles of flat walking with great views over Swansea Bay.
 * Limeslade Bay to Caswell Bay: about three miles of cliff path walking with stunning scenery.
 * Bishopston Valley: about three miles of riverside walking, starting just below Bishopston church, a peaceful and lush valley that spills out onto a storm beach. The return journey can be made over the cliff path to the left of the beach when facing the sea.

Water sports
The calm waters of Swansea Bay and Oxwich Bay are ideal for watersports such as skiing, wakeboarding, kayaking, dinghy sailing and Power boat training.

Some of the best surfing spots in the UK are in Swansea, with Llangenith, Caswell and Langland bays being the most popular.

Universities

 * Swansea University has a student population approaching 20,000, and for the past few years has been the successive winner of The Times award for the best student experience in the UK. The university is also listed as one of the top 200 universities in the world according to QS World University Rankings.
 * University of Wales Trinity St David, Swansea. With several campuses throughout the city, the university is famous for its courses in stained glass design and digital media.

Colleges

 * Gower College Swansea

Sailing
Sailing lessons are available at several training schools in the Swansea area:

Buy

 * Welsh Love Spoons: large spoons carved in wood that are traditional gifts between lovers.
 * Woven cloth: available in traditional Welsh designs and sold as shawls, skirts and purses.
 * Monopoly: one of the series of this famous game is based on the streets and landmarks of Swansea.
 * Laverbread: the Swansea speciality dish made from seaweed.
 * Salt Marsh Lamb: locally produced Gower salt-marsh lamb, from sheep reared in the salt-marshes of Loughor Estuary is available from many local butchers and in Swansea Market.
 * Salt Marsh Lamb: locally produced Gower salt-marsh lamb, from sheep reared in the salt-marshes of Loughor Estuary is available from many local butchers and in Swansea Market.
 * Salt Marsh Lamb: locally produced Gower salt-marsh lamb, from sheep reared in the salt-marshes of Loughor Estuary is available from many local butchers and in Swansea Market.

General
The Quadrant Centre and Oxford Street are the main shopping centres, and host all the usual department and chain stores. Between these two areas lies the much more interesting city market. Although housed in a modern building, Swansea Market can trace its history back to medieval times, and is the largest market in Wales. It is also a good place to purchase the local delicacy, laverbread. Laverbread requires refrigeration to keep fresh. If travelling, request vacuum-packed or canned.

On the edge of the city centre is an array of large, utilitarian shopping centres collectively known as Parc Tawe. Within the complex there is also a UCI multiscreen cinema and bowling alley. Parc Fforestfach is an out-of-town shopping centre that houses several huge retail stores. And, for night owls, the huge Tesco supermarkets between the Quadrant Centre and Oystermouth Road in the city centre, Parc Fforestfach and Llansamlet are all open 24 hours.

 * High Street (near the junction with College Street) has several stores specialising in backpack and hiking equipment. So, if your tent is springing a leak or your hiking shoes wearing thin, this is the best place to replenish your equipment before heading into the wild Welsh countryside. High Street is Swansea's creative hub, and so among the theatres and galleries, there are also niche shops.

Eat

 * Ice-cream. Due to an influx of Italian families into the area during the early 20th century, Swansea has developed quite a reputation for its tubs and cones. While there are several excellent brands, the nationally acclaimed Joe's Ice-cream is by far the most famous, and their parlours are venerable institutions in the city. In fact, it is often said that no visit to Swansea is complete until you've had a Joe's.
 * Laverbread. This Swansea speciality breakfast made from seaweed is delicious rolled in oatmeal and lightly fried or just heated and served on buttered toast. Request your hotel serve it for breakfast or pick up a can or vacuum pack from Swansea Market.
 * Welsh Cakes. Scone-like cakes studded with raisins and dusted with sugar. Available at most bakeries, but best served hot off the griddle at Swansea Market.
 * Welsh Rarebit. Swansea is a good place to sample this Welsh speciality of melted cheese spiced with ale and herbs. It is generally served on toasted bread with a side salad.
 * Cockles These are harvested from the mud-flats in the nearby Loughor Estuary. Cockles are sold in Swansea Market.
 * Salt Marsh Lamb This is the meat from lambs which graze in salt marshes. The meat from these lambs have a subtly different taste to lamb sold in supermarkets. Local Gower salt-marsh lamb comes from sheep reared in the salt-marshes of the Loughor estuary.  Salt marsh lamb can be bought in many local butchers and in Swansea Market and is served in the premier local-cuisine restaurants in the city like Bizzy Lizzies Bistro and the Fairyhill restaurant (see below).

Restaurants
Swansea is teeming with quality restaurants: more than one hundred in the city centre alone. Wind Street for theme bars and quality international cuisine. Quality Chinese food on High Street and Princess Way. St.Helen's Road for take away and sit down Indian (also quality restaurants on Walter Road and off the Mumbles Road at Blackpill), Italian, Turkish and Indonesian. Cheap and excellent vegetarian at 8 Cradock Street, off Kingsway. The Environment Centre, Pier street, Marina offers cheap and excellent fair trade coffee and snacks.

Grape and Olive at the top of the Meridian Tower in the Marina has incredible views over Swansea Bay

Mumbles Road in Mumbles has a wide range of restaurants. Check out Verdi's on Mumbles sea front for great views over a cappuccino.

Joe's Ice-cream Parlours are on St. Helen's Road, near the Guildhall, and near the post office on Mumbles Road in Mumbles.

Below is a very brief list of popular restaurants in the city centre and marina area.

V = vegetarians catered for.

Budget
American

Cafes (English Breakfast)

Cafes (Fish and Chips)

Chinese

Indian

Indonesian

International

Mexican

Thai

Vegetarian Welsh/British

Mid-range
Chinese (Cantonese)

Food vendors

French

Greek

Indian

International

Italian

Jamaican

Japanese

Lebanese/Persian

Mediterranean

Mexican

Pan Asian

Thai

Turkish

Vegetarian

Vietnamese

Welsh/British

Splurge
French

Indian

Italian

International

Mediterranean/Spanish

Welsh/British

Drink

 * Swansea's busiest and liveliest watering hole is on historic Wind Street (appropriately pronounced Wined) and surrounding area, which is also the home to many of Swansea's best restaurants.
 * Wind Street marks the centre of the city's night club and bar area, and on a Friday or Saturday night the words of Dylan Thomas, although originally referring to death, seem somehow appropriate in describing the mood of the revellers: "Do not go gentle into that good night,... burn and rave at close of day; rage, rage against the dying of the light."
 * Another popular watering hole is the Brynymor Road area. This area has a more laid-back atmosphere than Wind Street and is popular with the many university students who live nearby.  There are also several excellent international restaurants in the area, serving Italian, French, Mediterranean, Thai and Indian cuisine.
 * Uplands is Swansea's most bohemian area and is the place to find indie restaurants, bars, and cafes, while Mumbles has some lovely old pubs and a number of distinctive cafes, many with sea views.

Coffee and tea
Swansea enjoys a wonderful cafe culture, originally sparked by an influx of Italian families to the city in the early 20th century and later expanded with the establishment of local independents.

City Centre/Marina

Mumbles
 * Also Verdis and Castellamare, see Eat listing.
 * Also Verdis and Castellamare, see Eat listing.
 * Also Verdis and Castellamare, see Eat listing.
 * Also Verdis and Castellamare, see Eat listing.
 * Also Verdis and Castellamare, see Eat listing.

Swansea Beach

Also see see Mumbles section above.

Uplands

Alcohol
City centre: Wind Street vicinity City centre: Kingsway vicinity

City centre: Bryn-y-Mor Road vicinity

Uplands

Sleep
There is a whole row of B&Bs on the sea-facing Oystermouth Road and also many in the spacious suburb of Uplands. Both locations are near the city centre, though lodgings in the Uplands area tend to be of better quality. Mumbles Road in Mumbles also has a wide selection of B&Bs with sea views.

Backpacker hostels
Swansea has two hostels: one in the city centre and one in a rural setting (See Gower Peninsula):

Self-catering

Budget

 * Premier Travel Inn:
 * Premier Travel Inn:
 * Premier Travel Inn:
 * Premier Travel Inn:

Media

 * BBC. The BBC's Swansea and Region-wide news website.
 * The South Wales Evening Post. The city's main evening paper, available from Monday to Saturday at news stands throughout the city. It is the best publication for finding out about job openings, events or just for keeping up to date on developments in the city.
 * Swansea Sound. One of the first local radio stations to take to the air in the UK. Popular oldies music is a regular feature as well as news, current affairs and discussion programs. Welsh language programming is broadcast daily when the station is known as Sain Abertawe. Swansea Sound broadcasts at 1170MW and DAB digital radio.
 * The Wave. Covers similar ground as their sister station, Swansea Sound, but is aimed at a younger audience by providing a mix of popular music including mainly current chart and contemporary hits, as well as news, local information and entertainment. The station is available on 96.4FM and DAB.
 * Bay Radio Broadcasts to the same area as The Wave & Swansea Sound. Includes easy listening music as well as an adult orientated format. Available on 102.1FM.
 * What's On. This is monthly information booklet published by the city council listing up-coming events and movie information. The booklet is available free from the main tourist office or from cafes, restaurants and hotels in tourist areas.
 * Compass. A bi-monthly booklet issued free and covering the mystical and spiritual aspect of Swansea. A good resource to find information on local Buddhist groups, tai'chi and yoga classes and reiki and shiatsu practitioners. Compass is available from the main tourist office and from cafes and restaurants, particularly those in the Mumbles and bed-sit area of Uplands.
 * Swansea Life Magazine. A glossy magazine covering all the hot topics in the Swansea area. Sold at most newsagents in the city.
 * Swansea.com. Information guide on hotels, bars, nightclubs and what to do in the city.

Religious services
There are many religious and spiritual groups meeting in Swansea. Below is just a representative of the most common.

Beaches and coast
As a coastal city, visitors inevitably come into contact with the sea. Be aware of local conditions before swimming or undertaking boating activities.

Among the popular beaches, Three Cliffs is dangerous for swimming due to the strong under currents caused by a tidal lagoon. Worm's Head off the tip of Rhossili Bay has also claimed many lives. Ensure that you know the times of the tides before venturing out the island. Many people have been swept away trying to return through a fast rising tide. The cliffs between the Rhosilli village and Worms Head have also claimed lives, some of the grass and earth on the cliff edge is eroding and walkers should heed local warnings and stick to the path. Indeed, care should always be taken while taking clifftop walks in the Gower.

From the beginning of May, Caswell, Langland, Bracelet and Port Eynon beaches are all patrolled by professional lifeguards during the weekends. From June until September the beaches are patrolled 7 days a week

Advice for safe swimming:
 * A red flag means danger. Do not enter the water if the red flag is flying
 * Consider bathing at a beach that's under lifeguard protection
 * Don't swim alone at a deserted beach
 * Don't use inflatables. They are easily swept away by strong currents
 * If you see someone in trouble, call 999 and ask for Coastguard
 * Inquire about swimming conditions at local tourist offices prior to venturing to a beach without lifeguard cover
 * Read warning notices posted near beach access sites
 * The area between the red and yellow flags marks the area patrolled by lifeguards. Don't swim outside this area

Crime
Crime occurs in Swansea as in most other cities, and sensible precautions should be taken. As elsewhere in the UK, there can be drink related problems in those areas with high concentrations of pubs and clubs, such as Wind Street. In general, however, Swansea is a very safe city and violent crime is rare.

Hospitals and clinics
In an emergency, dial 999 and request ambulance service.

Connect
As of July 2022, Swansea has 5G from all UK carriers. Wifi is widely available in public places.

You can access the internet at public libraries, such as the Central Library on Oystermouth Road, but you need ID for registration.

Go next
Other places of interest in the Swansea area:

 * Dan-yr-Ogof Caves are in the Swansea Valley (on the A4067 - main Swansea to Brecon Road). Voted Britain's "favourite natural wonder" in a nationwide competition organised by Channel 5, it is the largest complex of show caves in Western Europe. There is also a craft shop and restaurant.
 * National Botanic Garden of Wales, Carmarthenshire (off A48, between Swansea and Carmarthen). For public transport information, call 0870 608 2608.
 * Brecon Beacons National Park: a short drive from Swansea will take you into this land of lakes, mountain peaks and Celtic mystery.
 * Half day drive from Swansea: Join M4 at Swansea and take until the end. Follow A483 and then A40 through Llandeilo and the market town of Llandovery. Both towns are very picturesque, though Llandovery is larger and has more places to relax and visit. Instead of travelling directly to Llandovery, it is possible to take a detour to the river-side village of Trap and the spectacular Carreg Cennen Castle. There are handicraft gift shops and cafes at the castle and near Trap. From the castle there is the option of returning to Llandeilo and rejoining the A40 or travelling through the lanes to Llandovery. From Llandovery, follow signs for Sennybridge and then take a right onto the A4067. This road leads to the Dan-yr-Ogof show caves and back to the M4, (Head west for Mumbles and Gower and leave the motorway at 'Exit 47', 'Swansea West,' or head east for Swansea City Centre and leave the motorway at 'Exit 42.' Follow signs for 'The National Waterfront Museum'). During this half day journey, you will pass through some of Wales' most breathtaking pastoral scenes, and along the way take in quaint villages and towns, mountains, caves, lakes and waterfalls.
 * Pembrokeshire Coast National Park — stunning coastal scenery a more than 90-minute drive (longer at vacation times)
 * Tenby — a medieval walled town with great beaches. More than 90 minutes by car, bus or train.
 * Cardiff — Wales' capital city has a castle and shopping. It is around 50 minutes by car, bus or train, and frequent connections by bus and train.
 * Ffos Las Race Course — a horse racing course that opened in 2009.
 * Pembrey Circuit — a racing circuit that is deemed to be the home of Welsh motorsport. Has held the British Touring Car Championship twice and has been popular with F1 testing. Sometimes has monster truck rallies and other events. A 40min drive away (also, on the X11bus route to Carmarthen)
 * Gower Peninsula — the beautiful Gower Peninsula is the United Kingdom's first designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. It is in Swansea, and is famous for its stunning coastal scenery, wide sandy beaches and medieval castles. Llangennith, in particular, is very popular with surfers and is considered to be one of the best surf areas in the UK.

title: Swansea


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Swansea (disambiguation)

There is more than one place called Swansea:

Australia

 * Swansea (Tasmania) - A town in Tasmania.
 * Swansea (New South Wales) - A town in New South Wales.

United Kingdom

 * Swansea - A city in South Wales.

United States of America

 * Swansea (Illinois) - A town in Illinois.
 * Swansea (Massachusetts) - A town in Massachusetts.
 * Swansea (South Carolina) - A town in South Carolina.

These should not be confused with Swanzey, New Hampshire.

Three ghost towns with the same name in the United States of America:
 * Swansea, Arizona
 * Swansea, California
 * Swansea, Nevada

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

title: Swansea (disambiguation)


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Swansea (Massachusetts)

Swansea is a town near the mouth of the Taunton River in Massachusetts. Swansea is a local retail hub, with businesses lining its central artery, Grand Army of the Republic Highway (GAR Hwy, Route 6). Traveling off the main drag offers opportunities for hiking, boating, and swimming.

Understand
Swansea is a quiet suburb of Providence, Rhode Island and Fall River, Massachusetts. At the turn of the 20th century, trolleys connected Swansea with Providence, Fall River, and Taunton. The town is an ocean front town that has a town beach. The town also has many streams and reservoirs that are good for fishing.

By plane

 * Logan International Airport in Boston is the primary international airport serving the area.
 * T.F. Green Airport in Warwick (Rhode Island) is the town's nearest major domestic airport.

By car
Both I-195 and Rt. 6 run east-west, and are major routes into Swansea from Providence and Fall River. Travelers from other areas, including Boston, must travel to one of these highways to enter Swansea.
 * Interstate 195 runs east-west between Providence and Cape Cod. (Exits: 5, 8)
 * U.S. Route 6, in length, connects Swansea with bordering Somerset and Seekonk. Most Swansea businesses are on or just off of Route 6.
 * MA Route 118 starts in Attleboro to the north and terminates in Swansea.
 * MA Route 103 connects Swansea with Warren (Rhode Island) and Somerset's southern shore. Primary route serving south Swansea.
 * MA Route 136 runs north to Rehoboth.

By train
The nearest MBTA commuter rail stops from Boston are in Providence and Attleboro.

By bus

 * The Southeastern Regional Transit Authority (SRTA) offers daily buses from Fall River.

Get around
Swansea is most easily traveled by car. There is a SRTA bus route that provides limited stops along Route 6 and Swansea Mall Drive.

Swansea is full of bike riders, joggers, and dog walkers. The town has many bike routes on its roads. Some roads include Old Warren Rd., and Route 118. There is a major bike path in the area. The East Bay Bike Path is a 14 mile bike path that stretches from Providence to Bristol along the shoreline of Narragansett Bay. It passes through the city of East Providence as well as the nearby townships of Barrington and Warren.

Buy
While the Swansea Mall closed its doors in 2019, Swansea's shopping centers continue to attract traffic from the surrounding area.

Ice cream

Asian

Lunch

Go next
Popular New England tourist areas around town:

 * Cape Cod is located about 44 miles east of the town.
 * Newport, RI is located only 23 miles south of the town. It's about a half hour drive. Ocean Drive in Newport is the home of the Newport Mansions.
 * Boston is located 54 miles northeast from Swansea. It's about a 1 hour drive.
 * Providence, RI is only 13 miles to the west. The ride should only take 15 minutes.
 * Battleship Cove, home of the USS Massachusetts battleship, is located in Fall River, MA which is only 5 miles. The ride will only be 5 minutes.

title: Swansea (Massachusetts)


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Swansea (Tasmania)

Swansea is a coastal town in Eastern Tasmania.

Understand
Swansea—originally named Waterloo Point—was established in the 1820s.

Get in
Swansea is a 2-hour drive from Hobart at 139km via the A3 Tasman Highway, a 1.5 hr drive from Launceston at 137km via Rte 1, B34 and A3, and a 2 hour drive from Port Arthur at 140 km via the A9 and A3.

title: Swansea (Tasmania)


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Perth/Swan Valley

The Swan Valley is an area that is in the northeast part of metropolitan Perth. It is defined by the Swan River which passes through it, and the Darling Scarp which lies on its eastern boundary.

Understand
The Swan River was the main access for early access to the coastal plain between Fremantle and the hills that lay to the east of Perth. As a result, all very early European land holdings were aligned to the river. Guildford was established before Perth, and the valley had the earliest farms and founding families located in the area.

History
The area around Guildford and the Swan Valley was the location of some of the earliest settlements in Western Australia. Old wineries, old pubs and old churches give an idea of the history of the valley.

By car
Starting from the Swan Valley Tourist information centre in Guildford (not far from the railway station), it is possible to do a round drive by proceeding north along West Swan Road, up to where it links with the Great Northern Highway, and back down to Midland or Guildford. The signs and maps indicate a large number of wineries, and other attractions and businesses along this route.

By train and bus
From Perth, take the train to Bassendean or Midland. These are the main railway stations near the valley, and they have connecting bus services into the valley.

By coach tour
Coach tours from Perth include winery visits for tastings, and stopping at various places for food and drink options. There is also a hop-on, hop-off shuttle service that travels around the Swan Valley between Wednesday and Sunday, giving the opportunity to visit wineries without having to drive.

By river cruise
Leaving Perth, river cruise boats travel along the Swan Valley, and in most cases coincide with coach transport to various wineries. It is possible to go on a morning cruise, a coach winery tour, and a return cruise to Perth.

Get around
As most semi-rural areas in Australia, the car is the best vehicle to explore the Swan Valley.

Do
The Swan Valley is known for its vineyards, many with restaurants and cellar door sales available.

Along the Great Northern Highway:
 * Houghtons Wines. This winery provides a popular spot for a picnic.
 * Oakover wines
 * Jarrah Ridge
 * Sitella
 * Highway
 * Talijancich
 * Carilley Estate
 * Olive Farm
 * Feral Brewing
 * Lancaster Wines

Along Toodyay Road:
 * Garbin Estate
 * Jane Brook

Along West Swan Road:
 * Edgecombe
 * Henley Park
 * Wild Swan
 * Black Swan
 * The Margaret River Chocolate Factory
 * Sandalford Wines
 * Lilac Hill estate wines
 * Ironbark brewery
 * Riverbank Estate wines

Drink
The Swan Valley is known for its abundant wineries, but you will also find a number of boutique breweries, distilleries and specialist coffee roasters.

Go next

 * Perth/The Suburbs
 * Perth Hills

title: Perth/Swan Valley


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Swarthmore

Swarthmore is a small borough in Delaware County, Pennsylvania, United States.

History
When this town was first founded it was originally named Westdale. It was named in honor of painter Benjamin West, who was one resident of the early town. Westdale was cut off of Springfield Township which creates some bizarre modern day borders. When Swarthmore College was established the name was changed to Swarthmore.

By car
Swarthmore is located off Exit 3 of Interstate 476 (or locally known as the "Blue Route"). Southern Swarthmore can also easily be accessed from the MacDade Boulevard exit of I-476 in neighboring Ridley Township. Swarthmore can also be accessed by State Route 320 or State Route 12 (Baltimore Pike).

By bus
SEPTA Route 109 bus connecting Upper Darby and Chester stops along Chester Road.

By train
SEPTA Regional Rail trains (Media/Elwyn Line) stop at Swarthmore Station, located in the heart of the village

By plane
Philadelphia International Airport is minutes from Swathhmore and is served by taxis and the SEPTA Airport Regional Rail Line.

Get around
Swarthmore is a small, compact borough where walking and/or biking is a viable option. There is a Philly CarShare spot located at the train station.

Buy
There is a small variety of shops located in the "Village" neighborhood of Swarthmore

Eat
There is a limited number of restaurants located in Swarthmore

Drink
Swarthmore was a dry town until 2017. There are a few bars in Media. Travellers looking for more variety should consider traveling to Philadelphia.

Sleep
Accommodations in Swarthmore are limited to several bed and breakfasts. There are some more options, located nearby in Media.

Go next
Swarthmore is located twelve miles away from Philadelphia and is also a half hour drive from Wilmington

title: Swarthmore


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Swartland

The Swartland region is part of the Western Cape region of South Africa.

Cities

 * — famous for its wildflowers and the annual Darling Wildflower show
 * — the area is known for its grain and wine cultivation, and for its sheep and poultry farming
 * — the breadbasket of the Western Cape hosts one of only three wheat museums in the world
 * — one of the oldest European towns of South Africa, it was named one of the three most beautiful towns of the Western Cape in 2009
 * — a fishing village known for its west coast hospitality, long beach, spring flowers and beautiful views
 * — one of the oldest European towns of South Africa, it was named one of the three most beautiful towns of the Western Cape in 2009
 * — a fishing village known for its west coast hospitality, long beach, spring flowers and beautiful views
 * — one of the oldest European towns of South Africa, it was named one of the three most beautiful towns of the Western Cape in 2009
 * — a fishing village known for its west coast hospitality, long beach, spring flowers and beautiful views
 * — a fishing village known for its west coast hospitality, long beach, spring flowers and beautiful views

Understand
17th-century Dutch navigator Jan van Riebeeck called this softly undulating country between the mountain ranges "Het Zwarte Land" (the Black Land) because of the endemic Renosterbos (Elytropappus rhinocerotis). After the rains, mainly in winter, the Renosterbos takes on a dark appearance when viewed from the distance in large numbers. This is due to the fine leaf-hairs adhering to the leaves when wet.

The wide fertile plain is the bread basket of Cape Town with its wheat fields reaching up to the foot of the mountains, interrupted by wine, fruit, and vegetable farms.

The Swartland is also home to the oldest colonial hotel of South Africa, the Royal Hotel in Riebeek Kasteel.

Drink
Viticulture in the Swartland is still comparatively young but a growing number of focused producers have moved here, resulting in the region rising in popularity in the last decade to become one of the most fashionable wine areas in South Africa. Viticulture is commonly practised under dryland conditions, with minimal irrigation, which is also made possible by the large number of hectares of old vines that grow here and require less maintenance.

On the Swartland Wine Route, wine farms may be visited and their products sampled, and there are regular events through the year to promote the region and its wineries.

title: Swartland


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Swartz Creek

Swartz Creek is a city of 5,500 people (2019) in Central Michigan. The town is a suburb of Flint.

Understand
Although there's not much to do around Swartz Creek, many people are happy where they live and crime is minimal. However, the city is next to Flint Township, which is considered a part of the Swartz Creek area and is the consumer commercial (including bars, restaurants and other activities) hub of the county.

Get in
I-69 has two Swartz Creek exits on Miller Road and Morrish Road with two others in the area: on Bristol Road, Flint Township near the airport and on Sheridan Road (M-13), Clayton Township. Swartz Creek lies west of Flint and east of Durand on the expressway.

Get around
Although Swartz Creek may not be very big, you will still need a car or a good bike to get around. As there is a good sidewalk system, but it is limited by the Expressway (I-69). The city's main streets: 2/3 of Miller Road, Seymour and Elms, all have bike lanes. The state operates a public parking lot on Miller Road east of I-69 on the south side of the road.

 * Genesee County's Mass Transportation Authority's Swartz Creek location offers Your Ride, a public location to location scheduled service. Rides must be schedule 24 hours in advance.

Festivals and events
}}
 * {{do | name=Family Movie Nights | alt= | url=http://www.cityofswartzcreek.org/index.php/calendars/family-movie-night-schedule.html} | email= | address=The Fred and Phyllis Pajtas Theater | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 810-635-4464 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=free | content=They are held every other week on Friday night June to August. A free bounce house opens at 7:30PM and the movie begins at dusk. Bring your own seats or blankets.
 * {{do | name=Family Movie Nights | alt= | url=http://www.cityofswartzcreek.org/index.php/calendars/family-movie-night-schedule.html} | email= | address=The Fred and Phyllis Pajtas Theater | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 810-635-4464 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=free | content=They are held every other week on Friday night June to August. A free bounce house opens at 7:30PM and the movie begins at dusk. Bring your own seats or blankets.
 * {{do | name=Family Movie Nights | alt= | url=http://www.cityofswartzcreek.org/index.php/calendars/family-movie-night-schedule.html} | email= | address=The Fred and Phyllis Pajtas Theater | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 810-635-4464 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=free | content=They are held every other week on Friday night June to August. A free bounce house opens at 7:30PM and the movie begins at dusk. Bring your own seats or blankets.
 * {{do | name=Family Movie Nights | alt= | url=http://www.cityofswartzcreek.org/index.php/calendars/family-movie-night-schedule.html} | email= | address=The Fred and Phyllis Pajtas Theater | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 810-635-4464 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=free | content=They are held every other week on Friday night June to August. A free bounce house opens at 7:30PM and the movie begins at dusk. Bring your own seats or blankets.

Eat

 * VFW-Amvets
 * B&T Pizza Plus
 * VFW-Amvets
 * B&T Pizza Plus

Gateway area, Mundy Township
These hotels are in the Gateway area, six miles from Swartz Creek center and three miles from the airport terminal.
 * Holiday Inn Gateway Centre Flint
 * Residence Inn by Marriott Flint
 * Holiday Inn Gateway Centre Flint
 * Residence Inn by Marriott Flint
 * Residence Inn by Marriott Flint

title: Swartz Creek


text:
Swat

The Swat Valley is a charming valley in the northern Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan, which is a popular tour destination. During the visit of Queen Elizabeth II in the 1960s, she called it "Switzerland of the East".

Understand
Swat (Pashto: سوات) is a valley and an administrative district in the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Province, close to the Afghan-Pakistan border. The capital of Swat is Saidu Sharif, but the main town in the Swat valley is Mingora. It was a princely state until it was dissolved in 1969. The valley is almost entirely populated by ethnic Afghans/Pashtuns. The main language spoken in the valley is Pashto/Pakhto. With high mountains, green meadows, and clear lakes, it is a place of great natural beauty and is popular with tourists.

By car
People travelling from down country on their own vehicles can take the Motorway (M-1) and reach Mardan interchange from Islamabad in about 1½ hours after covering a distance of 131 km. From Mardan onwards they can travel via Takh-e-Bai, Dargai, Malakand Pass, Batkhella, Chakdara and finally reach Mingora/Saidu Sharif after covering a distance of 112 km in an additional two and a half hours. The total distance from Islamabad to Mingora/Saidu Sharif is 247 km, around 5 hours with one stop for lunch and refreshments. This route is open for all kinds of traffic throughout the year.

Using the above-mentioned route from Mardan onwards, the distance from Peshawar to Mingora/Saidu Sharif is 151 km. Total driving time from Peshawar is around 4 hours. Swat Motorway is under construction which will also decrease travel time.

Nowadays, you can travel via swat motorway which is connected with M-1 (Peshawar-Islamabad) motorway. This new route gives you more pleasant journey as it avoids the traffic Jams which you can experience near Malakand Pass & also saves about 1 hour journey. Since this motorway is new and at the end, a few kilometres are under construction which was to be completed by November 2019, still it's way better than the conventional route via Mardan-Takht e bhai.

By bus
For those preferring public transport, travelling in an air conditioned bus service is an option. There are several bus companies with regular direct service to Mingora from Lahore, Rawalpindi, Peshawar and Mardan. The Daewoo Bus Service operates bus services to Mingora from Lahore, Rawalpindi, Peshawar and other major cities such as Karachi, Hyderabad, Bahawalpur, Multan, Faisalabad, Sargodha, Abbottabad, Mianwali etc.

By plane
Saidu Sharif Airport is also an option for those who prefer air travel. The national airline PIA has three weekly flights from Islamabad which take 30 minutes to reach Saidu Sharif.

Get around
Swat Valley, especially lower Swat, is a year-round tourist destination. However the main tourist season for Swat begins in spring and lasts till autumn (April to October). April to May is the best time to visit Swat, when the fresh green grass carpet covers the slopes. June to August is the period when most domestic tourists from the hot plains of Punjab and Sindh escape the scorching summer heat and find refuge in the cool areas of Upper Swat. October–November is autumn when yellow and golden are the most dominating colours on the backdrop of a clear blue sky. December–March are the winter months; the road beyond Bahrain is snowbound during this time.

See

 * Mingora and Saidu Sharif: Important landmarks are the shrine of the Akhund of Swat, Residence of former Wali of Swat, Swat Museum, Swat Serena Hotel, archeological remains of the Butkara, Jahanzeb College (1952).
 * Malam Jabba: (also Maalam Jabba, Urdu: مالم جبہ) is a Hill Station in the Karakoram mountain range nearly 40 km from Saidu Sharif in Swat Valley, Peshawar, Pakistan. It is 314 km from Islamabad and 51 km from Saidu Sharif Airport.Malam Jabba is home to the largest ski resort in Pakistan.The Malam Jabba Ski Resort, owned by the Pakistani Tourism Development Corporation, had a ski slope of about 800m with the highest point of the slope 2804 m (9200 ft) above sea level. Malam Jabba Ski Resort was the joint effort of the Pakistan government with its Austrian counterpart. The resort was equipped with modern facilities including roller/ice-skating rinks, chair lifts, skiing platforms, telephones and snow clearing equipment.
 * Swat Museum: Swat Museum is on the east side of the street, halfway between Mingora and Saidu. Japanese aid has given a facelift to its seven galleries which now contain an excellent collection of Gandhara sculptures taken from some of the Buddhist sites in Swat, rearranged and labelled to illustrate the Buddha's life story. Terracotta figurines and utensils, beads, precious stones, coins, weapons and various metal objects illustrate daily life in Gandhara. The ethnographic section displays the finest examples of local embroidery, carved wood and tribal jewellery. For the last three years the museum is occupied by Pakistan army and it is not known when they would be leaving it.
 * Miandam: Miandam is a small summer resort 10 km (6 mi) up a steep side valley and 56 km (35 mi) from Saidu Sharif, making it an hour's drive. The metaled road passes small villages stacked up the hillside, the roofs of one row of houses forming the street for the row of houses above. Tiny terraced fields march up the hillside right to the top. Miandam is a good place for walkers. Paths follow the stream, past houses with behives set into the walls and good-luck charms whitewashed around the doors. In the graveyards are carved wooden grave posts with floral designs, like those used by Buddhists 1,000 years ago.
 * Madyan: By the time you reach this small town at 1320 m and about 60 km from Mingora, the mountains have closed in and the valley is almost snug. Here one senses why Swat is so popular among the tourists. There are a lot of embroidered shawls in the Bazars of Madyan. At 1,321 m (4,335 feet) above sea level, but it is a larger town and has many hotels in all price ranges and some good tourist shopping. Antique and modern shawls, traditional embroidery, tribal jewellery, carved wood and antique or reproduced coins are sold along the main street. This is the last Swati village, offering interesting two-and three-day walks up to the mountain villages... ask in the bazaar in Muambar Khan's shop for a guide. North of Madyan is Swat Kohistan where walking is not recommended without an armed guard. The central mosque at Madyan has carved wooden pillars with elegant scroll capitals, and its mud-plastered west wall is covered with relief designs in floral motifs. Both bespeak the Swati's love of decoration. Madyan Guest House provides accommodation.
 * Behrain, Swat valley: A quarter of an hour past Madyan, the road squeezes through Behrain. Tourists stop to shop or have a look around for beautiful carved wood chairs and tables and other handicrafts. Behrainis are a mix of Pashtuns and Kohistanis. Behrain is 10 km north of Madyan and only slightly higher, at about 1,400 m (4,500 feet). It is another popular riverside tourist resort, with bazaars worth exploring for their handicrafts. Some of the houses have carved wooden doors, pillars and balconies. These show a remarkable variety of decorative motifs, including floral scrolls and bands of ornamental diaper patterns almost identical to those seen on Buddhist shrines and quite different from the usual Muslim designs.
 * Kalam, Swat valley: 2070 m high and 100 km from Mingora, it was the centre of an independent state in the 19th century. It was later taken by Chitral then given to Swat after partition.Kalam, 29 km (18 mi) from Bahrain and about 2,000 m (6,800 feet) above sea level, the valley opens out, providing rooms for a small but fertile plateau above the river. In Kalam the Ushu and Utrot rivers join to form the Swat river. Here, the metalled road ends and shingle road leads to the Ushu and Utrot valleys. From Matiltan one gets a breath-taking view of the snow-capped Mount Falaksir 5918 m (19,415 ft), and another unnamed peak 6096 m (20,000 ft) high.
 * Usho, Swat valley: 3 km from Kalam Valley and 117 km from Saidu Sharif
 * Utror, Swat valley: 16 km from Kalam Valley and 120 km from Saidu Sharif. Utror valley is situated between 35° 20′ to 35° 48′ N latitudes and 72° 12′ and 72° 32′ E longitudes. The population of Utror is 6888 and the area of the valley is about 47,400 ha. Utror valley is surrounded by Gabral and Bhan valleys on the east, upper Dir district on the west, Kalam valley on the south and Gabral valley on the north. It is 15 km from Kalam, the centre of Swat Kohistan. The altitude of the valley at Utror proper is 2300 m and reaches to 2900 m at Kandol Lake.
 * Gabral, Swat Valley: Gabral valley lies between 35° 20′ to 35° 48′ N latitudes and 72° 12′ and 72° 32′ E longitudes over an area of about 38733 hectares. The population of Gabral is 3238. The valley is surrounded by Chitral District in the north, Utror valley in the south and south west, upper Dir district in the west and Bhan and Mahodand valleys in the east. It is 5 km distant from Utror proper and 20 km from Kalam. The altitude of the valley ranges from 2580 m at Baila to 5160 m at Karkaray Lake top. In Utror and Gabral, 44 medicinal plants are collected during the months of May, June, July and August. Only 14 of them are traded to National and International markets while the rest are used locally. A survey by Pakistan Forest Institute concludes that 75 crude herbal drugs are extensively exported and more than 200 are locally traded in Pakistan. Indigenous people, who have no training in sustainable harvesting, post-harvesting care and storing of medicinal plants, collect 85 percent of these crude herbs from the wild.

 * Mahodand Lake (Pashto: د ماهو ډنډ - "Lake of Fishes") is a lake about 40 km from Kalam, in the Usho Valley of Swat District, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, northwestern Pakistan. It is accessible with a four-wheel drive vehicle, and is a good resort for fishing, boating and camping. The lake is surrounded by the lush green meadows, snow clad mountains and dense forests, the banks of the Mahodand lake serve as the camping site during the summers season for the visitors & trekkers. The Mahodand Lake is fed by melting glaciers and springs of the Mount Hindu kush. It gives rise to Ushu Khwar, the major left tributary of the Swat River.
 * Spin Khwar Lake
 * Pari (Khapiro) Lake is one of the lakes in Swat region which is located at a very high altitude in the foot of the tallest peak in the range with a considerable depth. The name Pari or Khapiro is given to the lake due to the widespread belief that the lake is the abode of fairies where they live and bathe in the cool, pure and clear water of the lake. It is located to North-east of Utror valley and can be accessed only by trekking. Trekking to the lake needs endurance and love for nature as the trail is exasperating as well as dangerous therefore, utmost care should be taken while trekking on the narrow bends and turns leading to the lake. The lake is accessible from both Izmis and Kundal lakes. Two ascending tracks lead to this lake from Kundal and Izmis lakes taking almost five hours to reach this roof top of Swat. The trail is very steep from both sides but the surrounding beauty and eye-cooling green pastures and exotic flowers not only boost the trekker's stamina but compel him to explore further.
 * Kundol Lake: The pastoral valley of Swat has abundance of precious resorts of nature where one can find solace and respite from the never-ending struggle of life. Kundal or Kandolo Lake is one such place here upon which the Maestro of nature has spent extra time and effort to paint. Kundal Lake is situated in the north of Utror valley. One can easily access it from Kalam via Utror from where a link road ends in a green valley called Ladu in the foothills of the lake. You can either hike to Ladu from Utror or take a four-wheeler to ease and minimize your journey. It consumes almost two hours to reach the beautiful valley of Ladu. For the adventurous kind, a walk in the romantic valley will unravel several new mysteries. The people who take temporary residency over here during summer plow the open land and harvest potatoes and turnips, which are famous all over the country for its exotic taste. There is also a small hut in Ladu where you can take tea and get something for eating. From Ladu it takes almost four hours to reach the lake. Some locals can guide you and even take your luggage if properly paid. The mountains around this small valley are covered with tall cedar and pine trees and meandered by different streams and torrents. The people are friendly and provide you guidance if required.

 * Bashigram Lake is situated to the east of Bashigram valley near Madyan. The road to this valley is partly metaled and can be plied by a four by four or any ordinary vehicle. It takes almost forty to fifty minutes to reach this picturesque valley inhibited by simple and hospitable folk. From here, trekking of four to five hours, depending on professionalism and enthusiasm of the trekkers lands you in the realm of a serene and enchanting lake of Bashigram.
 * Spin Khwar (White Stream) Lake is a beautiful lake hidden in the lap of mountains towards the north of Kundal Lake and east of Utror valley. The name Spin Khwar has a clear significance as a small white stream in the east flows down to the lake from the surrounding mountains and is a major source of water for the lake. The lake is accessible through two tracks, one from Kundal and the other from Ladu valley. The track from Ladu is comparatively easy to walk and less tiring while the track from Kundal is not only difficult but alarmingly dangerous although it is short and links Kundal and Spin Khwar. Its steepness and dangerous bends needs an experienced trekker and unending physical strength. The grazers in the area have built small huts and a mosque where one can stay but a personal tent is more recommendable as these huts are in a poor condition due to lack of maintenance.
 * Daral Lake: is situated to the northeast of Sidgai Lake and can be accessed through Saidgai after two three hours rigorous trekking. The trail to Daral is full of fun and amusement because it runs over sky touching heights of the mountains provides spectacular sights and panoramas for the beauty hungry eyes of nature lovers. A close look towards the south will reveal the long and winding sellouts of river Swat in the horizon.After walking and trekking for about two and a half hours on bare and naked mountains, the trail start descending towards the East where Daral Lake is located.

Do
There are many things to do in Swat Valley but visiting ancient archaeological sites is one of the best thing to do. There are many historical places where you will feel an aura of ancient civilizations. Swat brings you an enormous chance of nature photography.

Buy
Swat is known for precious stones such as zamarod, which was among the gifts given to Queen Elizabeth II upon her visit to the region. They can be bought at the local market, along with some ancient remains. The local handicrafts, Islampuri shawls, decoration pieces, and marble utensils are also very famous among visitors. National and international brands of textile and clothing are also here. Marble industries in Swat offer different colour marbles in your required size. the colours are red green white brown. Hand made Shawals and Carpets can also be bought.

Eat
Swat is known for its fishes generally known as "swati mayan". In hotels in Madyan, trout dishes are also available.
 * Chicken Karahi
 * Mutton Karahi
 * Kabab
 * Paiye
 * Rice dishes
 * Chicken handi

Fresh and dry fruits are also available in local market. Fresh fruits include plum, apricot, peaches oranges.

Drink
you can easily buy fruits and make juices and shakes of it.
 * Kehwa
 * Kashmiri chai (noon chai)
 * Swati Lassi
 * Buttermilk
 * Molasses drink

Stay safe
The area has become more peaceful and secure than some other parts of the country, and included among the safest areas in view of the statistics of law and order. Minor incidents occur in some towns, which can not be used as negation of the real situation. Pakistan Army has established checkpoints at all entry points and generally the situation in the Valley is now peaceful for tourism Visitors are advised to carry their Passports/National Identity Cards (NIC) with them to avoid inconvenience at the routine security checkpoints established by Pakistan Army and Police department en route. Likewise, foreign tourists should carry their passport and security clearance documents with them.

Cope
There are many hospitals in Swat especially in Saidu Sharif: Government Central Hospital Saidu Sharif, Saidu Hospital with emergency ward and other private hospitals.

The water available at most places in Swat is not safe to drink, however bottled mineral water is widely available in the towns and even in villages. If mineral water is not available, it is wise to drink bottled drinks or tea. It is also advisable to bring some water purification tablets with you; these are available at chemist shops in all main cities of the country.

title: Swat


text:
Eswatini

The Kingdom of Eswatini, formerly (and still commonly) known as Swaziland, is a landlocked country in Southern Africa and is informally known as "Africa in a nutshell".

Cushioned between South Africa and Mozambique and Africa's last standing absolute monarchy, Eswatini is one of Africa's smallest countries, attracting up to a million visitors each year. Endowed with breathtaking national parks, mesmerising scenery, and lots of wildlife, you're bound to enjoy a wonderful African experience in this country!

Cities

 * (ÉMbábáne) – the capital
 * – royal and legislative capital
 * – major business centre
 * – in northern Eswatini, third city by size
 * – capital of Shiselweni region and fourth city by size
 * – capital of Shiselweni region and fourth city by size

Understand
The Kingdom of Eswatini is one of the last absolute monarchies in the world, one of the smallest countries in Africa and has a well-earned reputation for friendliness in Southern Africa. It also contains several moderately sized game parks and reserves, which are sponsored by the government and are popular tourist destinations.

Eswatini is named for Mswati II, who became king in 1839. The royal lineage can be traced back to the Dlamini clan. The population is divided roughly between Nguni, Sotho and Tsonga, the remainder being 3% white. The current king is Mswati III, son of Sobuza II who had about seventy wives. He rules jointly with Indlovukazi, the Queen Mother. The primary symbol of Eswatini is not what the West would typically associate with nationhood - flags or monuments - but the king himself. The relationship between king and people is demonstrated through the incwala, a ceremony lasting several weeks which focuses on traditional rule, unity of the state, primacy of agriculture, sacredness of land, fertility and potency. Mswati's relationship with his people has been made even more unique through the introduction of chastity decrees for the under-18s to combat the rise of AIDS. However, Mswati III broke the rule when he married a 17-year-old girl, his thirteenth wife, in 2005. Mswati III has come under further criticism for attempting to purchase a private plane during a period of persistent drought and famine. Dissent grew so vociferous that the media was banned from making disparaging remarks about the monarchy, and the plane in particular. In the third year of drought, further plans to build luxury palaces for his wives whilst his people starved led to mass criticism. In 2005, Mswati III signed the country's first constitution though, in effect, nothing has changed: opposition parties remain banned, and the King remains absolute monarch.

Eswatini's main exports are sugar, grown on plantations throughout Eswatini, soft drink concentrates, cotton, maize, tobacco, rice and wood pulp. Demand for asbestos, once a major export, has fallen greatly due to the extreme health risks associated with it. The land is badly overgrazed and overfarmed. This is particularly problematic as Eswatini suffers from persistent droughts. Unemployment hovers at around 25%. This figure is contributed to by inability to work as a result of AIDS.

Swazis build their huts depending on whether they are descended from Nguni or Sotho: Nguni huts are beehive in shape; Sotho huts have window frames and full doorways. Living space is roughly divided into three parts: living accommodation, animal housing and the 'great' hut, reserved for the spirits of the patrilineal ancestors. Each chief's wife has her own hut. Land is owned by local chiefs or the Crown; much land has been bought back for the nation and unclaimed spaces are used for grazing and collection of firewood. There is a growing class system due to the expansion of the middle classes. Social rank can be determined through the individual's relation to the head of their clan or to the royal family. In urban areas, fluency and proficiency in English is the main social delineator.

There are festivals and ceremonies throughout the year, the most notable being the King's Birthday on 19 April which is celebrated with a national 'day off' and local festivities, and the Reed (Umhlanga) Dance, a three day ceremony which takes place around August when thousands of virgins congregate from all over Eswatini. The King is permitted to pick a new bride from their number.

Compared to other countries in the region, Eswatini is known for its civility and peacefulness, despite similar problems with poverty and one of the world's worst AIDS crises. As of 2018, about 27% of working-age people (age 15 to 49) were infected with HIV. The AIDS epidemic has broken up the traditional extended family unit, leaving many young children orphaned and fighting for survival.

Eswatini is divided into four administrative districts: Hhohho (northwest), Lubombo (east), Manzini (central-west), and Shiselweni (south).

History
Artifacts indicating human activity dating back to the early Stone Age 200,000 years ago have been found in the Kingdom of Eswatini. Prehistoric rock art paintings date from ca. 25,000 BC. The earliest inhabitants of the area were Khoisan hunter-gatherers. They were largely replaced by the Bantu tribes during Bantu migrations who hailed from the Great Lakes regions of Eastern Africa.

The autonomy of the Swaziland Nation was dictated by British rule of southern Africa in the 19th and 20th centuries. In 1881 the British government signed a convention recognizing Swazi independence. At the start of the Anglo Boer war, Britain placed Swaziland under its direct jurisdiction as a Protectorate. The Swaziland independence Constitution was promulgated by Britain in November 1963 in terms of which a legislative Council and an Executive Council were established. The first Legislative Council of Swaziland was constituted on 9 September 1964. Changes to the original constitution proposed by the Legislative Council were accepted by Britain and a new Constitution providing for a House of Assembly and Senate was drawn up. Elections under this Constitution were held in 1967. Since 1973, Swaziland has seen a quiet struggle between pro-multiparty activists and the monarchy. It gained independence from the UK in 1968.

Climate
Generally speaking, rain falls mostly during the summer months, often in the form of thunderstorms. Winter is the dry season. Annual rainfall is highest on the Highveld in the west, between 1,000 and 2,000 mm depending on the year. The further east, the less rain, with the Lowveld recording 500 to 900 mm per annum. Variations in temperature are also related to the altitude of the different regions. The Highveld temperature is temperate and seldom uncomfortably hot while the Lowveld may record temperatures around 40 degrees Celsius in summer. Pack rain gear for the wet season, including shoes that can handle mud, and lightweight clothes such as shorts for the summer.

Tourist information

 * Eswatini Tourism website

Get in
Eswatini's visa policy is quite liberal. Citizens of many countries can visit the country without a visa. The government plans to offer visas on arrival in the near future.

Entry requirements
Citizens of the following countries/territories do not require a visa to enter Eswatini for visits up to 30 days:

Andorra, Antigua and Barbuda, Argentina, Australia, Austria, Bahamas, Barbados, Belgium, Bosnia Herzegovina, Botswana, Brazil, Canada, Chile, Croatia, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, East Timor, Estonia, Fiji, Finland, France, Gambia, Germany, Ghana, Greece, Grenada, Guyana, Hungary, Iceland, Ireland, Israel, Italy, Jamaica, Japan, Kenya, Latvia, Lesotho, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Madagascar, Malawi, Malaysia, Malta, Mauritius, Monaco, Mozambique, Namibia, Nauru, Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Papua New Guinea, Poland, Portugal, Russia, Samoa, San Marino, Serbia, Seychelles, Sierra Leone, Singapore, Slovenia, Solomon Islands, South Africa, South Korea, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Taiwan, Tanzania, Tonga, Trinidad and Tobago, Turkey, Tuvalu, Uganda, Ukraine, Uruguay, United Kingdom, United States, Zambia, and Zimbabwe.

Visa requirements
If you need a visa to enter the country, you must submit the following documents to your local Eswatini embassy:
 * A valid passport.
 * Documentation indicating your intentions to visit Eswatini.
 * Documentation indicating the duration of your stay.
 * Two passport-sized photographs.
 * Proof that you are financially stable (bank statements, salary slips, and the like will suffice).
 * Air travel tickets (if you plan to enter the country by plane).

Eswatini has a small number of diplomatic missions. If your country doesn't have an Eswatini embassy, go here and see if an embassy is accredited to your country of residence. Plan and prepare accordingly if your country does not host an Eswatini embassy.

If you are in South Africa, you can apply for an Eswatini visa at the Eswatini embassy in Pretoria. It will take two days to process the visa. For more information, click here.

By plane
The only international airport in Eswatini is King Mswati III International Airport also called Sikhuphe (replacing Matsapha Airport, which lied about 1 km north of Manzini, a few kilometres west of the highway linking Manzini with Mbabane). Two airlines use this airport, flying to Cape Town, Durban, Johannesburg and Harare.

There is also a small car rental station at the airport and a snack shop. A hotspot has been installed, allowing users with WiFi and Wireless LAN-equipped computers or other devices to access the internet from anywhere in the building free of charge.

By bus
Most public transport bus services arrive in Mbabane or Manzini. Smaller bus lines, or minibuses generally provide service to Johannesburg, Durban or Cape Town in South Africa as well as Maputo in Mozambique.

Larger buses usually travel within the country and some stop at border crossings, where passengers must connect with an onward journey, unless a specific group booking is done to hire a big bus.

For scheduled road transport there is the Eswatini-based siyeSwatini TransMagnific, which provides transport to and from Eswatini daily. Stops include the Johannesburg airport. The TransMagnific mini-buses are customised for added comfort and safety, unlike the public transport. The size of the minibus is a function of the number of bookings for that trip, so the bus might actually turn out to be painfully uncomfortable. They require that bookings and payments be done at least a day prior to travel so that your meal can be ordered and the selection for the film can be determined for the approximately 5-hour trip. Meals, however, are arbitrarily distributed among the passengers: some get a pack whilst others don't. If the driver crashes into another vehicle on the highway, expect a four-hour delay.

When travelling into and out of South Africa to and from Eswatini, TransMagnific is generally the safest option. All mini-buses into South Africa go directly to Johannesburg bus stations, which can be dangerous.

By car
Depending on season, the border crossings from South Africa to Eswatini can be crowded. The Ngwenya/Oshoek Border Post (on the N17/MR3 from Ermelo to Mbabane) tends to be full of people around long weekends and holidays, since it is the most popular border post. Other border posts, such as the one near Amsterdam (Nerston) and Jeppes Reef are a good alternative and easily reachable with normal 2x4s.

Mahamba border post near Piet Retief is handy when coming from south (Durban) or north-west (Johannesburg). Operations are rather quick. There is a 50 rand road toll.

There might be lengthy checks of your car and/or baggage at the South African border post when leaving Eswatini.

Coming from South Africa, check the Department of Home Affairs for border crossings to verify opening times.

Get around

With an area of 6,704 sq mi, the quickest way to get around the country is by car. You can easily cover the whole country in one day this way.

By bus
Minibuses, called kombis, are prevalent, but can be confusing. Like similar modes of travel around the world such as the jitney, matatu or dolmus, these are small vans that accumulate as many travellers as possible while making their way along a general direction. In Eswatini, these vans are often driven by very young men, and most have assistants who estimate and collect fares, ask your destination, and make change. It is very, very unlikely to be over-charged.

Be prepared for crowded seats, loud radios, and sometimes reckless driving. The larger Sprinter vans are a safer and faster choice if available.

Minibuses can usually be flagged down along main roads. Larger towns usually serve as minibus hubs or connections. Major hubs include Manzini, Mbabane, Pigg's Peak, Nhlangano, Siteki, and Big Bend. Finding the correct bus can be tricky, so discreetly ask if you can't figure it out. The kombis typically have destinations written on the front bumpers. At a bus station (or bus rank), young men will yell out the destinations and are helpful in guiding you to the correct kombi; however, always double check with the passengers. Watch your belongings as such places, like all bus terminals worldwide, have disproportionally higher crime rates. Stay away from these bus ranks at night.

Travel is very difficult after dark. The only option is by taxi. If staying around Mbabane or Manzini, keep a couple of cab drivers' phone numbers on hand. Taxi drivers may overcharge.

By car
Traffic is on the left. The road is partially in good condition and paved. There are sections in poor condition, particularly in the mountains.

The roads are used by a large number of livestock, especially cows and goats, as the roadsides are commonly used for grazing. These animals often pose a hazard to traffic. Driving speeds are very high. Driving after dark should be avoided. On the N4 road from South Africa via the Oshoek border post, avoid driving after dark due to the risk of carjacking. The road across the Eswatini border into Mozambique should also be avoided after dark for the same reason.

Talk
English is the official language of business. It is advisable that travellers learn a little of the local language, SiSwati (also known as Swazi) which, in rural areas, is spoken almost exclusively.

See
The national parks and reserves are the most important sights in Eswatini and traditional culture and customs are still alive - just like in most of Africa.

Volunteer
Eswatini is one of the world's poorest countries, with 59% of the population living below the poverty line.

Volunteering is a great way to explore and learn more about the country and its culture.

Adventure activities

Money
The currency of Eswatini is called the lilangeni (plural: "emalangeni"), denoted by the symbol "L" for one, or "E" for more than one (ISO code: SZL). It is tied to the South African rand at par, as are the Namibian dollar and Lesotho loti.

Coins of Eswatini come in denominations of 10, 20 and 50 cents, 1, 2 and 5 emalangeni. Banknotes of Eswatini come in denominations of 10, 20, 50, 100 and 200 emalangeni.

Shops in Eswatini usually accept and make change for both currencies indiscriminately where banknotes are concerned, but not coins. However, this is not the case in South Africa, so if you are planning to visit South Africa also, you may prefer to request rand in exchange for emalangeni at banks in Mbabane or Manzini: proof of identity is required. It is impossible to exchange your emalangeni at Johannesburg Airport or in the UK. All Swazi vendors will take rand, but no South African vendors will take emalangeni.

Kombi operators in Eswatini do not take Rand coins.

Shopping
There are small stores where you can buy everything from Swazi foods to Swazi wooden sculptures and handmade bags.

Eat
Many Western foods are available in Swazi grocery stores, but traditional foods are still common, as is modern convenience food based on traditional ingredients.

Maize-based dishes are popular, and mealie or pap (similar to porridge) is a staple. Beans, groundnuts, pumpkin, avocado and sour milk are also common ingredients. Dried and cooked local meats, such as antelope (often called 'wild meat' by locals), are widely available at tourist restaurants.

"Chicken dust" is a cheap local bbq meal; basically chicken grilled in the open served with a salad and mealie. It is popular both with locals and absolutely delicious. Of course, take appropriate precautions as it is a street vendor food.

Sweet breads, vegetables and fruits are often available from roadside merchants. If you're craving pasta, imported olive oil, Nestle chocolate, Herbal Essences and Carlsberg, head over to the Hub, at Manzini: a huge Spar with everything you could need (at an appropriately inflated price). There are several coffee-shops and restaurants around the Hub, also: be aware that the lavatories are located separately, down the stairs, and you have to pay to use them. Manzini's bustling markets and local shops yield all kinds of interesting foodstuffs, along with the ubiquitous KFC.

Drink
Marula (made of fruits from the tree with the same name) is locally brewed during the marula season, fruits ripen between December and March. It may be difficult to find; ask locals as it is home-brewed.

There is a vibrant nightlife in Eswatini ranging from traditional dances to bars and nightclubs. If you're staying in Ezulwini, there are four bars at the Royal Swazi hotel. If you're in the Malkerns area, the House on Fire is extremely popular: local art, local and national DJs, an open-air setting and live acts.

Sleep
Eswatini is a small country and it is easy to get anywhere in the country during one day.

If you're watching the pennies, head to Veki's Guesthouse or Grifter's Backpackers in Mbabane, which costs around E120 per night for a bunk. It is unclear whether the latter one still exists. If you want to push the boat out, book a room at the Mountain Inn which has outstanding accommodation, facilities and leisure opportunities.

The most sought-after hotels in Eswatini tend to be located in Ezulwini Valley between the two major cities, Mbabane and Manzini. (Don't forget to pick up beautiful local crafts from the roadside stalls on the way.) With four bars, a restaurant, a casino, golf, swimming, tennis and 411 rooms and suites, the Royal Sun Swazi epitomises luxury. The Royal Villas, also found in Ezulwini, spread 56 rooms across 14 villas and are extremely luxurious, offering excellent food, atmosphere and leisure facilities. The Ezulwini sun offers excellent facilities, also, at mid-range prices. A budget option is Sundowners Backpackers, private rooms from around E200, dorms from E120 and camping from E70/night.

And, if you're heading down towards the Mozambique border, you'll find comfortable, well-appointed country clubs at Manananga, Mhlume and Simunye.

Stay safe
Historically, Eswatini has enjoyed a very low rate of violent crime compared to its neighbors. Indeed, South Africans and Mozambicans love to vacation here because they need not worry about being crime victims while on vacation.

Be cautious in the presence of police. Officers have been known to aggressively apprehend and abuse foreigners for minor offences such as jaywalking or speeding.

Hippopotamuses are found (rarely) in the country's rivers, and are one of the more dangerous animals you are likely to come across. They are actually quite fast animals, as well as being extremely strong and with large, powerful jaws. They often stay submerged in shallow water during the day, but come out at night to graze. They can be unpredictable, territorial and very protective of their young. Do not stand between a hippo and the water.

Crocodiles are a more common danger when swimming in rivers.

Eswatini also has one of the highest numbers of people struck by lightning per capita in the whole world, and it is common to know (or know of) somebody who has been struck by lightning.

Be careful when crossing any of Eswatini's nineteen border gates. It is forbidden to take meat into certain areas, and the soldiers have the right to search both you and your vehicle extensively. It is extremely inadvisable to stray into 'No-Man's Land', a 5 km stretch of territory between Mozambique and Eswatini; several locals have been shot by soldiers guarding the edges of the respective territories.

Whilst physical violence is not prevalent (save on weekends when many may imbibe copious quantities of alcohol), wandering around alone after dark is not advisable, particularly outside Mbabane and Manzini where there is little or no street lighting. Keep your money hidden and, if you are working or travelling in impoverished rural areas, do not eat expensive foods in front of the locals, particularly the children, who, especially if they are AIDS orphans and fed as part of the Sebenta school program, do not get to experience luxury items.

Roads outside of towns are mostly dirt. Roads in towns are heavily potholed. While Swazi main highways are generally in good repair, a four-wheel drive is essential to see much of the interior, unless you wish to be stranded miles from anywhere, with a patchy telephone signal as mobile telephone masts are few and far between. Other drivers, particularly HGVs, often overtake without warning and without checking for oncoming traffic. 'Kombis', local minibuses which function as taxis, drive at a neck-or-nothing rate with more than a full quota of passengers.

Stay healthy
Excellent medical care is entirely non-existent in Eswatini; the country has one of the lowest average life expectancies in the world and the healthcare system is poorly funded and maintained. If you fall sick during your stay, it is recommended that you go to neighbouring South Africa, where medical care is generally better.

Eswatini has the highest HIV/AIDS prevalence rate in the world ― 25-26% of Swazi adults aged between 15-49 have HIV/AIDS ―  and it appears that the issue has been getting worse and worse since 2002. Take the necessary precautions and don't even think about having unprotected sex! If you happen to find romance here, which is highly unlikely, you and your partner should consider getting an HIV test before taking things further.

There are risks for bilharzia if you frequent infected streams, as well as seasonal risks for malaria in the North-East parts of Eswatini near Mozambique. Be sure to use mosquito nets and repellent where necessary.

Tap water is potable in major cities but may not be in rural areas.

Respect
Swazis are very loyal to the king and the royalty; be smart about what is said openly.

Eswatini is also predominantly Christian, and modesty in dress is encouraged. Both Western and traditional clothing is worn. Shorts and sleeveless shirts are usually acceptable. The traditional clothing depends upon the person's gender and age. Adults may wear an outfit called emahiya, which is two large pieces of fabric, one tied to cover one shoulder and hang loosely down over the torso, and the other tied around the waist to form a skirt that reaches below the knees. Various accessories indicate the person's marital and social status. Newborns do not wear clothes, and young children wear only a small skirt.

Swazis adhere strongly to their historical traditions, which are widely practised today. Many who are suffering from an illness will consult a sangoma (traditional healer/diviner) to determine its cause and an inyanga (herbalist) to prescribe a treatment. It is the height of disrespect to be disparaging towards these individuals or to refer to them as witch doctors.

Connect
Mobile phone coverage is similar to South Africa: even in most nature reserves there is coverage, although it might be weak. There are two wireless operators in Eswatini: MTN-Swazi and Eswatin mobile; the latter's connection is not as good as MTN's. SIM cards from South Africa do not work here (unless it's MTN) and roaming has been enabled. It's easy to buy a starter pack with an MTN-Swazi SIM card, pretty much at every fuel station or grocery store. You must provide proof of residence, ID or passport to get a pack.

Although there is coverage, the phone service is bad: many calls are not connected (or connected to the wrong phone number), SMSs don't arrive, and international calling is more expensive than in South Africa.

Starter pack SIM cards expire within 30 days if not used; they cannot be used in South Africa.

title: Eswatini