Having won independence from France in 1962 following a bloody War of Independence that remains the defining event of the country’s modern history, Algeria has had a dramatic and rocky first half-century of going it alone. Following a secular, socialist path throughout the 1970s and 1980s to keep the simmering Arab-Berber tensions at bay, the country nevertheless became mired in popular discontent by the late 1980s.

In the 1990s, Algerian politics was dominated by a bloody struggle between the military and Islamic militants that engulfed much of the county and caused huge loss of life. The civil war petered out by 2002, when Abdelaziz Bouteflika, formerly Algeria’s long­standing and respected foreign minister, was elected Algeria’s president, a role he has held ever since. Bouteflika has run the country with an iron hand ever since, and while being no democrat, he has arguably brought the country something it needs far more As well as its problems with Islamic militants, the government has also been confronted with agitation from the country’s Berber ethnic minority pressing for greater cultural and political recognition, which have resulted in limited concessions to their demands such as Tamazight, the Berber tongue, being recognized as an official national language.

Algeria today is largely stable, with the problems of violence and kidnapping that have plagued it for long now consigned to the past. President Bouteflika won his third term in office in 2009 and while democracy and human rights continue to suffer under his rule, most Algerians are simply glad that the country is a functioning entity and the economy finally growing again.

Algeria Culture

Religion in Algeria

99% of the population adhere to Islam.

Social Conventions in Algeria

Courtesy should be adopted with new acquaintances. The provision and acceptance of hospitality are as important a part of Algerian culture as elsewhere in the Arab world. In the main cities, the urban population lives at a frantic pace much akin to European urban dwellers, but in the south and in rural areas people are much more open and friendly. Algerian women are expected to dress modestly in rural areas but this is not necessary in Algiers. Tourist visits should be avoided during Ramadan. Military installations and personnel should not be photographed. Police roadblocks are frequent – slow down and follow their instructions very carefully and respectfully should you be driving around the country. Always carry your passport or identification papers with you.

Language in Algeria

The official languages are Arabic and Berber (Tamazight), but French is still used for most official and business transactions. Berber (Amazigh) is spoken in the northern mountainous regions of the Kabylias and the Aures and also in the south. In general, English is spoken only in major business or tourist centers.

Geography & Weather

Best time to visit

Summer temperatures are high throughout the country, particularly in the south where it is both very dry and very hot. During this time, road travel is difficult and air travel prone to delay because of sandstorms. Northern cities have high humidity, while those along the coast are cooled by sea breezes. In the winter, the oases of the far south are pleasant and attract many visitors. The desert temperature drops dramatically at night. North of the Sahara, temperatures are very mild from September to May and vary little between day and night. South of the Sahara, temperatures are pleasant from October to April, but there are great variations between day and night. Coastal towns are prone to storms from the sea. Rainfall is relatively low throughout the country and in the far south it is virtually unknown.

Required clothing

Cotton and linen lightweights are best for winter months and for evenings in desert areas. Woollens and light rainwear are advised for the winter along the coast and the Hauts Plateaux. Remember that desert temperatures can drop very low during the night, so don’t get caught out with only flimsy layers. South of the Sahara, from mid-December to mid-January, temperatures drop and warm clothes are necessary both in the morning and the evening. A mountain sleeping bag is also required when camping.

Doing Business in Algeria

Suits should always be worn in winter months, shirt sleeves during the summer. Prior appointments are necessary for larger business firms. Businesspeople generally speak Arabic or French and, as a great deal of bargaining is necessary, it is rarely convenient to carry out transactions through an interpreter. Patience is always important. Visitors are usually entertained in hotels or restaurants, where Algerian businessmen are seldom accompanied by their wives. Only rarely are visitors entertained at home. If visiting during Ramadan (and this should be avoided if possible), care should be taken to observe local custom in public places.

Office Hours

Generally Sat-Wed 0800-1200 and 1300-1600.

Economy

Petroleum and natural gas are the most important industries in Algeria and account for all but a small fraction of the country’s exports. Most of the country is covered by the Sahara Desert and despite investments in the agricultural sector (the main crops being wheat, potatoes, grapes, cereals and citrus fruits), Algeria is far from self-sufficient in foodstuffs and is vulnerable to drought.

Most of the fertile land is located in the northern littoral region. The government has recently completed the process of breaking up state agricultural co-operatives and turning the land over to its occupants. Minerals, principally iron ore and phosphates, are the other major export.

Algeria’s principal trading partners are France, the UK, Italy and Spain – it currently supplies around 10% of Europe’s natural gas imports to these countries. Plans for the construction of a Trans-Saharan gas pipeline linking coastal terminals to the Saharan gas fields and down into Nigeria, are yet to come to fruition.

From Europe, Algeria imports most of its industrial equipment and consumer goods. The IMF and other Western donors have provided loans and aid packages, conditional on liberalising economic reforms and the sale of state-owned industrial assets – the government has, by and large, been prepared to meet these.

As the security crisis has eased in the last few years, economic links between Algeria and the EU have grown. In April 2002, Algeria signed an Association Agreement with the EU, which aimed at boosting both-way trade. Domestic unrest within Algeria in 2011 forced the government to offer $23m in backdated salary increases and more spending on the public sector.

GDP

US$208 billion (2012).

Main exports

Petroleum, natural gas and minerals.

Main imports

Foodstuffs and consumer goods.

Main trading partners

France, Canada, Italy, Spain and USA.

Keeping in Touch in Algeria

Telephone

With the advent of mobile phones, the use of landlines (which were never highly used anyway) is in steep decline. Taxiphones (a sort of metered phone booth) are available to make calls from, but mobiles are used as the primary means of communication.

Mobile Phone

Mobile phone usage across the country has increased greatly, with the main mobile networks giving good coverage across the country. To take advantage of local rates, buy a cheap foreign SIM card for use in your existing phone.

Internet

There are internet cafés in all larger towns and hotels in the major cities are more likely to have in-room Wi-Fi available.

Media

Algeria’s TV and radio stations are state-controlled, but there is a lively private press which is often critical of the authorities. Although there is no overt censorship, legislation sets out prison terms and fines for anyone insulting or defaming the president, MPs, judges and the army. Daily newspapers are printed in Arabic or French, and the main French-language dailies are El Wotan, Liherte, Le Quotidien d’Oran and La Tribune. One of the leading Arabic-language dailies is El Khabar, whilst another daily, Horizons, has an English section.

In terms of TV channels, Enterprise Nationale de Television (ENTV) is state-run. The use of satellite dishes is widespread; some satellite TV stations, such as BRTV, a Berber station based in France, target viewers in Algeria, and European channels are widely watched. Algerian Radio, operated by state-run Radio-Television Algerienne, runs national Arabic, Berber and French networks, and several local stations.

Post

Mail posted in any of the main cities along the coast takes three to four days to reach Europe; posted elsewhere, it could take much longer. Parcels sent by surface mail may take up to two months to reach Algeria.

Post Office hours

Generally Sat-Wed 0800-1700 and Thurs 0800-1200. The main post office in Algiers (5 boulevard Mohamed Khernisti) is open 24 hours.

Staying there

Hotels

In general, good hotel accommodation in Algeria is limited. The business centres, and in particular Algiers, tend to have either expensive but not particularly high-standard top end hotels or cheaper hotels primarily suited at locals or backpackers. Cheaper hotels tend to be crowded and difficult to get into, even with a confirmed booking.

The hotels in the resorts along the Mediterranean coast have increased in number, and many are of a reasonably high standard. Often, the good hotels in these resorts run their own nightclubs. Winter rates for coastal resorts apply from 1 October to 31 May.

Good hotels in the gateway oases of the mid-south (such as Ghardaia and Ouargla) are few and far between, and during the season (any time other than high summer, which runs from late June to early September), it is vital to book well in advance.

Hotels in the very far south are extremely limited. In Tamanrasset there are a few high-standard hotels but room availability remains limited. Many tour agencies run their own Tamanrasset guesthouses, however, so if you book a tour overnight accommodation in one of these will usually be included.

Grading: All hotels are subject to government regulations and are classified by a star rating: deluxe (5-star), second class (4/3-star) and tourist class (2/1-star).

Camping

Camping is free on common land or on the beaches but permission from the local authorities is necessary. Any visitor lucky enough to travel in the Sahara will usually sleep in a sleeping bag under the stars, or during colder snaps, in tents pitched on the sand.

Other accommodation

There is a good network of (single sex) youth hostels throughout the country offering accommodation at budget rates. For more information, contact the Federation Algerienne des Auberges de Jeunesse.

Shopping in Algeria

Algeria’s not as well-known as neighboring Morocco for its shopping credentials but shoppers should find enough to satisfy the urge within the markets and souks of the northern cities. The spread of globalization has made its mark in the capital Algiers, with shopping centers drawing visitors and locals seeking a ‘Western’ shopping experience. Don’t expect to find the big international brands, but there are plenty of Algerian shops selling everything from jewellery and clothing, to cosmetics and souvenirs.

Possible souvenirs include leather ware, rugs, copper and brassware. Embroidered dresses made locally, known as mejboudi can also make great gifts, although depending where you’re buying, they can be expensive. The country is known for its leather in particular, so shoppers can expect to find excellent bags and shoes for excellent value. Berber carpets are beautifully decorated, but rather than buying them in Algiers, go to Ghardaia where the quality will be better and the prices cheaper. Berber jewellery is also highly desirable but many pieces will be made from coral, which while undoubtedly beautiful, is ethically dubious in its origins. From the Sahara comes finely dyed basketwork and primitive-style pottery.

Bargaining is customary in street markets and smaller shops so make sure you haggle, taking care to remain polite at all times. The rue Didouche Mourad is the best shopping street in Algiers; here you’ll find small independent boutiques lining the historic street. There are two state-run craft centers with fixed prices. one of which is located at Algiers airport.

Shopping hours

Sat-Thurs 0900-1200 and 1400-1900. Some shops open on Fridays.

Nightlife in Algeria

Algeria’s nightlife won’t be the main reason you’re coming here, but there should be enough options to keep most visitors happy. The main towns of Algiers and Oran offer reasonable options for entertainment, and many hotels will have their own on-site entertainment, such as nightclubs, catering for revellers after a good time. In Algiers, the scene there are a couple of tourist hangouts – Zeralda, and Sidi Fredj – where clubs cater to party animals who want to let their hair down. Bear in mind that much of Algeria’s nightlife is aimed at men, with women rather less visible in the clubs and bars. Otherwise, try Rue Larbi M’Hidi, a pedestrianised area that’s quite popular with tourists. If you prefer something a little more sedate, some cinemas show foreign films.

Strict laws around sale of alcohol mean that it’s expensive to drink, whilst many traditional bars have closed down due to the negative effect on business of having liquor licences withdrawn.

Meals & Beverages

Traditional Algerian food shows the historic influences of Berber, Arab, Turkish, and French tastes. It runs the gamut from mild to very hot, with lots of flavorings used. Algiers and popular coastal towns have a fair selection of good restaurants, serving mainly French and Italian-style food, though even classic dishes will have an

Unmistakable Algerian quality. Fish dishes are exceptionally good.

Specialties

• Brochettes (kebabs) in French bread and covered in a spicy
• Couscous (semolina-like pasta made from cracked wheat, is a staple food in Algeria and throughout North Africa).
• Chickpea-cakes (usually added as a side dish to make a cheap and tasty accompaniment for food).
• Shakshuka (stew, often served with vegetables).
• Tajine (stew, usually with lamb or chicken, which is a popular everyday dish).
• Pressed dates or figs, and hard cheese (foods carried by desert people while they’re travelling, which keeps for a long time).

Things to do

Alcohol is only available in more expensive restaurants and hotels, as well as from special shops. There are no licensing hours and hotel bars tend to stay open for as long as there is custom. Algeria produces some good wines but very few of them are served in the country itself. Alcohol is generally very expensive and not of great quality -expect non-name brands and a small choice.

Tipping

10% is usual in Algiers and larger cities. Elsewhere it is not customary.

Drinking age

18.

Regional drinks

• Mint tea (drunk throughout much of North Africa and the Middle East)
• Strong, sweet coffee (sometimes called Turkish coffee, generally drunk wherever people gather to talk and relax, a legacy of French rule).
• Medea, Mansourah and Mascara red wines and rosés.

Air

Air Algerie (www.airalgerie.dz) operates frequent services from Algiers domestic airport (adjacent to Algiers International) to the major business centres of Annaba, Constantine and Oran. Less frequent services run from Algiers, Oran, Constantine and Annaba to the other less important commercial centres and gateway oases such as Ghardaia (six hours from Algiers) and Ouargla, as well as important oil towns such as In Amenas and Hassi Messaoud.

Services are generally reliable, but air travel to the far south may be subject to delay during the dry summer months because of sandstorms. Despite this, air is by far the most practical means of transport to the far south for the visitor with limited resources of time; Djanet and Tamanrasset are the oasis gateways to the Tassili N’Ajjer and the Hoggar, respectively.

There is an Air Algerie office in every Algerian town which is served by the airline. You can arrange reservations and itineraries from these offices, but as some of the more isolated offices are not connected by computer or fax, you should confirm reservations well in advance. Offices are very busy in the major towns.

Road

Driving in Algeria is not for the fainthearted. While driving conditions within the cities are of a reasonable standard, the standards of driving differ hugely, and the distances between cities are large. The N1 (a 1,200km/746-mile motorway) links major cities in the north, from east to west. Security checkpoints outside the major cities are a common sight.

Driving in the desert is not advised without thorough preparation beforehand. It will require a 4×4 and in some cases a permit. It’s illegal to drive through the desert alone due to the threat of kidnap and terrorism in the Sahel region.

Side of the road

Right

Road Quality

Road surfaces are reasonably good. All vehicles travelling in the desert should be in good mechanical condition, as breakdown facilities are virtually non-existent. Travellers must carry full supplies of water and petrol. Travel by road (outside Algiers) in northern Algeria should be avoided after dark.

Car Hire

You can arrange car hire at the airport on arrival or in most towns. Many hotels can also book this for you.

Taxi

It’s advised not to use public transport other than licensed taxis recommended by established hotels. All taxis are metered and are plentiful in most cities and major towns, though busy during the early evening in the main cities as many people use them to return home after work.

The habit of sharing a taxi is widespread – a shared taxi is called a /ouage. Be aware that there are surcharges after dark.

Bike

Cycling isn’t impossible in Algeria but with cycle hire practically non-existent and poor road conditions for cycling, it’s not an advisable way of getting around.

Coach

There is a long-distance bus network around Algeria, with fares and routes operating out of the major cities.

Regulations

Drivers should be aware that drink-driving is illegal. Speed limits are up to 120kph (75mph) on motorways. Children under the age of 10 must sit in the rear of the car.

Documentation

An International Driving Permit is required. A carnet de passage may be required. Cars are allowed entry for three months without duty. You must buy insurance at the border. Proof of ownership is essential.

Urban travel

Municipal bus and tram services operate in Algiers, its suburbs and the coastal area. You can buy 10-journey carnets and daily or weekly passes. There are also two public lifts and a funicular that lead up to the hill overlooking the old souk in Algiers. The capital also has a one-line metro system (more lines are planned) plus a modern tram line.

Rail

The Societe Nationale des Transports Ferroviaires (SNTF) (www.sntf.dz) runs Algeria’s railways. Daily (but fairly slow) services operate in the northern part of the country between Algiers and Oran, Bejaia, Skikda, Annaba and Constantine. The southern routes connect from Annaba to Tebessa via Souk Ahras, Constantine with Touggourt via Biskra and Mohammadia with Bechar.

Water

The main ports are all on the northern coast and include Algiers, Annaba, Arzew, Bejaia, Djidjelli, Ghazaouet, Mostaganem, Oran and Skikda. Government ferries service the main coastal ports.

*A yellow fever vaccination certificate is required from travellers over one year of age coming from infected areas.

Health Care

Healthcare facilities are generally of a reasonable standard in the major urban centres of the north with a fairly established network of clinics and hospitals. However, facilities are more limited in the southern Sahara region. Doctors and hospitals usually ask for immediate cash payment for their services. Emergency cases will be dealt with free of charge. Comprehensive travel insurance is essential; make sure your policy covers medical treatment and repatriation.

Food and Drink

Mains water is normally chlorinated and, whilst relatively safe, may cause mild abdominal upsets. Bottled water is available and is advised for the first few weeks of stay. Drinking water outside main cities and towns is likely to be contaminated and sterilisation is considered essential. Milk is pasteurised and dairy products are safe for consumption. Powdered or tinned milk is advised. Local meat, poultry, seafood, fruit and vegetables are generally considered safe to eat but be careful when eating things like raw dishes like salads and fruits, where ingredients may have been rinsed in tap water. Likewise, avoid drinks with ice in them.

Other Risks

Vaccination against hepatitis B and tuberculosis is sometimes advised. Rabies is present. For those at high risk, vaccination before arrival should be considered. If you are bitten, seek medical help without delay. There is little to no risk of malaria. Algeria’s climate is dry and hot, so wearing sunscreen and a hat to shield from midday sun, is advised, as is having drinking water with you.

Currently Unavailble 

Currency and Money

Currency information

Dinar (DZD) = 100 centimes. Notes are in denominations of DZD1, 000, 500, 200, 100 and 50. Coins are in denominations of DZD100, 50, 20, 10, 5, 2 and 1, and 50, 20, 10, 5 and 1 centimes.

Note: Because of the very strict adherence of the authorities to these regulations, visitors are strongly advised not to be associated with the black market, which tends to concentrate on the Euro and portable electronics.

Credit cards

Credit cards are generally only accepted in urban areas. Payment in cash is always preferred.

ATM

There are two or three functioning ATMs in Algiers, but they can not be relied upon and there is a thriving black market for currency exchange.

Travellers cheques

Accepted only in top-class (4-star and above) hotels, government-run craft (souvenir) shops and in certain establishments. To avoid additional exchange rate charges, travellers are advised to take traveller’s cheques in US Dollars or Euros.

Banking hours

Sun-Thurs 0900-1530.

Currency restrictions

There are no restrictions on the import or export of local or foreign currency. The export of foreign currency must not exceed the amount declared on arrival.

Currency exchange

In the past, difficulties have arisen when trying to exchange currency in Algeria, with only one national bank (La Banque Exterieure d’Alggrie) able to exchange foreign currency at branches in major business centres. Difficulties are now decreasing and it is possible, for example, to exchange currency at some of the larger hotels. However, the facilities for currency exchange remain quite limited.

Algeria duty free

Overview

The following goods may be imported into Algeria by persons over 17 years of age without incurring customs duty:

• 200 cigarettes or 50 cigars or 100 cigarillos or 250g of
• 1L of spirits or 2L of
• 250m1 of eau de toilette or 50m1 of perfume.
• Goods to the value of DZD50,000.

Banned Imports

Prohibited imports to Algeria include arms and ammunition, narcotics and counterfeit goods.

Banned Exports

Prohibited exports from Algeria include gold exceeding 150g in weight, firearms, ammunition and narcotics.