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Sierra Light House |
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Sierra Leone is an inspiring country with tremendous potential. It is an ideal and un-spoilt tropical winter sun destination. Its friendly and hospitable people are waiting to welcome you to an exclusive adventure! Sierra Leone’s heritage, history and culture blend with modernity where sophistication happily co-exits with nature to create a unique harmonious ambience.
While visiting as a tourist or on business, Sierra Leone offers the discerning visitor an exceptional and memorable West African adventure! From its rain forests to its white sandy beaches; from the cool air of the hills to the fresh breezes of the blue water of the Atlantic Ocean, Sierra Leone has something to offer everyone. · Stroll down the old colonial town of Freetown where the famous “Cotton Tree” has resided for over 200 years. The architecture will be reminiscent of New Orleans or some Caribbean Islands but Sierra Leone has added its own flavor something each traveler should taste! · Experience a national cultural show where traditional dancers gyrate and revel in the drums and music, as the sun slowly sinks into the horizon of the Atlantic Ocean. · Enjoy the delights of charming restaurants illuminated by the African moon. From the local African specialties to international cuisine, all your tastes will be pampered to. · For the more adventurous, deep sea or spear fishing will turn hours into minutes. · Walk along a deserted white sandy beach or frolic with friends in the ocean. Water and parachute skiing can provide a bit of exercise or just fun.
Agriculture is the backbone of the nation’s economy. About 80 percent of the country’s manpower is involved. Rurally, land is owned communally by the tribe and vested with the Chief on trust. The West European system of land tenure is applied in the western area.
Diamonds and other minerals from a substantial portion of the country’s export earnings. Other important products are timber, gold, bauxite, iron ore, coffee and ginger.
Whether you are looking for a quiet holiday or on business, come and experience the beauty and serenity of Sierra Leone.
Location Sierra Leone is located on the Western Coast of Africa between the countries of Guinea (North and Northeast) and Liberia (East and Southeast). The Atlantic Ocean is on the West and South of the country providing Sierra Leone with 300 miles of beautiful coastline.
From an approximate 70-mile coastal belt of low-lying land, the country rises to a mountain plateau near the eastern frontier rising 4000 to 6000 feet with a rich timber forest region. The Western Area encompasses the Sierra Leone Peninsula, on which the capital and main commercial center - Freetown - stands.
Brief History Sierra Leone’s name dates back to 1462 when a Portuguese explorer sailed down the coast of West Africa. There is some dispute whether it was the shape or climatic conditions that influenced Pedro da Centra to come up with “Sierra Lyoa” meaning Lion Mountains.
Some say the coastal mountains looked like “lion’s teeth”. Others suggest he thought the thunderstorms over the mountainous peninsula sounded like the roar of a lion. Sixteenth century sailors called it “Sierra Leoa” which evolved in the 17th century to Sierra Leone. The British officially adopted the name Sierra Leone in 1787.
Also in 1787, British philanthropists founded the “Province of Freetown” which later became Freetown – a British crown colony and the principal base for the suppression of the slave trade. By 1792, 1200 freed slaves from the Nova Scotia joined the original settlers, the Maroons (another group of slaves) and rebelled in Jamaica. They then traveled to Freetown in 1800.
Through the efforts of such men as William Wilberforce, Thomas Clarkson and Granville Sharp, Lord Mansfield formed an administration in 1806, which was instrumental in the British Empire’s abolition of the Trans-Atlantic slave trade (1807). The British established a naval base in Freetown to patrol against illegal slave ships. A fine of GBP 100 was established for every slave found on a British ship.
In 1808, Sierra Leone officially became a crown Colony with the land possessions of the Sierra Leone Company (formerly known as St. George’s Bay Company) transferred to the crown. The colony was dedicated to demonstrating the principles of Christianity, civilization and commerce.
In 1833, the British Parliament passed the Emancipation Act and slavery was finally abolished. It wasn’t until 1865 the United State passed the 13th amendment abolishing slavery.
Local People and Customs Sierra Leone reflects the diverse nature of religion with people from different tribal backgrounds. These differences can be seen in the traditional music and performances of local cultural groups. Come listen to the drums of the Temneh or watch the dances of the Mende. See the fire eaters or watch the “Mask Devils” dance.
The people of Sierra Leone welcome visitors and are proud to show off their country. There are few social restrictions though sensitivity is suggested in the more rural areas. English is widely spoken in Freetown though Krio and tribal languages are more prevalent in the countryside. Translators are available for hire.
Appointments must be made in advance and punctuality is appreciated. It is customary to shake hands on meeting and taking leave. Visitors should be perceptive to local conventions and care should be taken to respect local, religious customs and practices. Please Note: Always ask permission before taking pictures of nationals. In most cases they will be happy to comply especially if you can send them a copy of the picture! The government discourages begging of any kind.
Climate Sierra Leone is a tropical country with temperatures averaging around 26C (85F.) There are two distinct seasons: November to April is the dry season and the best holiday weather. May to October is the wet (rainy) season.
How to Dress During the summer season, casual, lightweight and informal clothing is appropriate for day and evening. Cotton is recommended. For business meetings and with Government Officials, men should wear a lightweight or tropical suit and tie; women a lightweight suit or equivalent.
For the rainy season, wet war apparel is recommended. A light sweater or jacket might be useful in the evenings during the Harmattan period from November through February. Don’t forget your beachwear, comfortable walking shoes and sports equipment.
Other Facts You Need to Know Health Requirements A vaccination certificate for yellow fever is required if arriving from or via an infected area. It is advisable to take anti-malaria tablets and consult your doctor or travel agent on what other precautions may be advised. Visit MDtravelhealth.com for more information. Travel Insurance It is advisable for visitors to take a comprehensive travel insurance covering injury, illness, delayed/lost/damaged baggage and personal belongings. Currency The local currency is the Leone (Le). Sierra Leone operates a floating exchange rate system. Foreign currencies can be exchanged at any of the Commercial Banks, Foreign Exchange Bureaus and Hotels. Credit cards are not acceptable everywhere so please confirm with management prior to any transaction. Vehicle Rental Vehicles may be hired through local companies, hotels and private individuals with or without a driver. Presently, there are no international car rental companies represented in Sierra Leone. Arrangements must be made in the country. For a first time traveler to Sierra Leone, the easiest method of transportation and the most convenient is the taxi. Gratuity When a service charge is included, gratuities are optional. Otherwise, 10% is the acceptable gratuity. |
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About Sierra Leone |
