libya visa for Americans

[rama]

I was planning on going to Libya this summer, probably around June/July, and was wondering if anyone had updated information on the visa process for Americans. Do I still need to go through a tour agency or is it possible to go as an independant traveler? If so, where do I apply for the visa (as I have doubts that there is a Libyan embassy up and running in the US-but perhaps I am wrong). Any info would be appreciated.

Also, for anyone who has traveled independantly in Libya recently I am keen on any advice, points of interest or warnings you could share. I will most likely be traveling alone and without my own vehicle. I speak pretty good Arabic and have experience traveling in North Africa, as well as particular interest in seeing the the Fezzan and the Sahara in general. Thanks.

[Chris Scott]

http://travel.state.gov/travel says: "At this time, neither Libya nor the U.S. provides visa services in each other’s countries; U.S. visitors to Libya should therefore plan to obtain a visa via a third country."

Most people find that they are not be able to travel around Libya without an expensive escort, although your Arabic may help get round this.

CS

[Budrinna]

[QUOTE]Originally posted by Chris Scott:


... although your Arabic may help get round this.

This, also , could be just the opposite!

Regards
Budrinna

[Sam Rutherford]

It used to be the case that the American government did not permit their citizens to visit Libya (particularly open-minded I always thought!), but that may have changed now. The Libyans have never had a blanket block on Americans visiting their country.

Sam.

[rama]

"also could be just the opposite"

sorry Budrinna, but could you perhaps clarify this rather cryptic remark?

Also if you (or anyone else) had any info on alternate visas for entrance into Libya, such as student visa (if I were to take arabic classes for a few weeks) or journalism visas (if I were to write a story either for the American press or a Libyan newspaper with an interest in an English language piece by an American) this would be helpful. Just thought I'd ask.

--rama

[Chris Scott]

I think Budrinna was joking. I'm sure we all agree that speaking the local language transforms one's experience of that country (unless you go around telling them how crap they are...).

For alt visas, you are best off contacting a Libyan mission - it must be on the web somewhere. All we know about here is tourist visas

Ch

[Budrinna]

To Rama

sorry Budrinna, but could you perhaps clarify this rather cryptic remark?

Yes no problem ! It is only related to your knowledge of arabic language, and should not be considered as cryptic remark but as friendly one, and not related only to Libya.

Note also that if You are a journalist or involved at any title in this field you must submit a preventive registration and follow special procedure for visas release where You have to inform about your arabic language acquaitance.

Those are usual procedures requested also out of Libya and under particult cricumstances.

As tourism agency we are not able to help you.

Cheers with Mirinda
Budrinna