Libya
 

My husband and I are planning a trip to Libya and Tunisia for Dec., '09. Can we rent a car in Libya? (I can't find a Hertz office in Tripoli, and we couldn't take a rental car into Jordan.) Can we take a rental car across the border into Tunisia? If not, do we have to fly, take a train, or take a bus? Thank you for your information.

What are your nationalities? For some, especially US citizens, it is virtually impossible, if not impossible, to secure a visa at this time. For others, it may be possible, but very difficult (including obtaining Arabic translations of your passports).

We're Americans. You're telling me that we can't get into Libya except by a tour? Ouch! We wanted to go to Sabratha, Litgus Magna, and other places my husband visited in the late 70's.

No, I am telling you that you cannot visit Libya at all, even with a tour. I have looked into this recently, and that's the information I was provided.

I feel so fortunate that four years ago we were the only small ship (100 mostly American passengers) to be permitted into Libya. Entrance was closed immediately afterwards and even though other cruise ships were allowed I heard Americans aboard had to stay on board. It was an amazing experience to see the ruins there - they are fantastic. The Libyan people were extremely friendly and would stop us to say thank you for coming to their country.

Thank you. My husband drove into Libya in the late 70's and loved it. He also said the people were friendly and hospitable. Things have changed. Too bad.

The US government has lifted travel restrictions to Libya (in 2004) so you can indeed go there. Libya's visa application process seems to be cumbersome, though.

Please read the official words from the US State Department at http://travel.state.gov/travel/cis_p...s/cis_951.html