Fact file: Mombasa

Did you know?

The Swahili expression "hakuna matata" means "no problem".

Language

English and Swahili, plus many tribal languages.

Visas

All UK citizens require a visa which is valid for three months.

Matatus or brightly-coloured minibuses — often with loud stereo systems and crammed with passengers — provide cheap, frequent transport up and down the coast from Mombasa

Bottle of beer is around £1, a meal between £3-£5 and a roll of camera film £3-£4. Prices fluctuate but may be higher in tourist centres like Mombasa

Cool ocean breezes make the humid coast easier to bear. Temperatures range between 21C/70F and 30C/86F. Rainfall is heaviest between April and May.

Banks are open 9am-2pm, Monday-Friday and there's also a Barclays Bank which stays open daily (except on Sundays) until 5pm.

Vaccinations are not compulsory but hepatitis A, polio and typhoid are recommended. Anti-malarial protection is necessary. Seek advice from your GP and make sure you buy adequate health insurance.

Be careful of what you eat and drink. Avoid tap water, drinks that include ice and salads. Stick to bottled water and fruit which you have to peel. Take proper measures to protect yourself from the sun and heatstroke.

Avoid walking around after dark. Don't carry or wear valuables and lots of cash in public places. Only travel with reputable operators if you're booking local excursions on your own.

It's 5-10% in tourist restaurants. Tips for safari guides are also expected.

Kenya Tourist Board, 36 Southwark Bridge Road, London, SE1 9EU. Tel: 020 7202 6373.

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