Morning everybody,

An update on the Mauritanian visa query -we got ours last week in Brussels - very simple and civilsed process, took four days. No transit visas any more apparently, so we got the Tourist version. We tried Brussels rather than Rabat because there are a gang of us heading that way (Scooters in the Sahara) in March and based on others' previous experience, Rabat is a visa hassle to be avoided if possible, particularly as a group.

So this is the score:

Directions

• Embassy is at 6 Rue de Colombie, Brussels, but it doesn't look like an Embassy.
• One half of the building is For Sale. BUT the left hand side of the building as you look at it is open and is the Embassy, the entrance is at the side.
• You can park easily and safely (for free) outside
• Opens 1000hrs Monday - Friday inclusive. Ring the bell.

Documents etc:

• Passport
• two passport photos - identical (and of the passport holder!)
• fill in one request form twice (no photocopier so you have to write it out twice AND they want two copies) Get these at the Embassy.
• Use the new bilingual French/Arabic form which you get from them - don't use old ones as they won't accept them.
• 62.50 euros for single entry, 93.75 euros for double entry PAYABLE IN EXACT CASH ONLY, no receipt given.
• Yellow Fever Cert - if you have it, take it. The lady said it wasn't crucial - probably, but if you have it, it helps. If not, tell them you have one lined up for next week or whatever.

Timing:
Takes five week days. You can't get them on the day, they won't post/courier them to you even if you offer 'a bonus', and they speak very little English so if unless you can speak Arabic, try French - that helped greatly, even with my poor grammar and odd phrases.

ALSO -VERY IMPORTANT-when you get your visa, check it carefully. We got three, and one was double entry but had been marked single entry only, and the single entry fee written in, although we had paid for double entry. Take it back immediately and point out the error. It was a genuine mistake and the lady was very apologetic and altered and restamped it, but as you don't get a receipt, the only recourse you have is to deal with it there and then, and make sure they restamp over any alterations or the border people are likely to refurse it. Also check the dates correspond to when you plan to be there.

And lastly, if you're based in the UK, be aware - they will take your passport off you so you won't get back into Blighty however much you argue and plead with Customs. We forgot that bit......so be prepared to stay!