Social ConventionsThe Portuguese influence is very strong. People are friendly and courteous. Every greeting is accompanied by a handshake. Normal social courtesies should be observed. Alcohol is available and smoking is acceptable.
Photography: Visitors wishing to photograph local people should ask permission first.
International Travel:Getting There by AirThe national airline is
Air São Tomé e Príncipe (KY), a subsidiary of
TAP Air Portugal. It operates flights regularly between São Tomé and Libreville
(Gabon), where they connect with ingoing or outgoing long-haul flights to or from Europe.
TAP Air Portugal operates flights from Lisbon and there is also a scheduled flight from Angola.
Departure TaxUS$20 per adult, payable in cash on departure for all international flights. US$10 must be paid for children up to 12 years, those under two years are exempt.
Main AirportsSão Tomé (TMS), 5.5km (3.5 miles) from the town.
To/from the airport: Transport to the city center is by airport bus, minibus or taxi.
Facilities: Facilities are fairly limited; left luggage, first aid and tourist information are available.
Getting There by WaterMain port: São Tomé, but this is not deep-water and few international
cruise lines or other passenger ships call there; however,
boats do sail there from Libreville and Doula.
OverviewThe following may be imported into São Tomé e Príncipe without incurring customs duty:
Reasonable quantities of tobacco products and perfume (opened).
Alcoholic beverages and lottery tickets.
Internal Travel:Getting Around By AirASTP (
Air São Tomé e Príncipe) runs regular flights between São Tomé and Príncipe (flight time – 40 minutes). Panoramic and charter flights are also available.
Getting Around by WaterA limited ferry service operates between São Tomé and Príncipe.
Getting Around by RoadTraffic drives on the right. There are over 380km (236 miles) of roads, although in general these are deteriorating. Some of them are asphalted around São Tomé town, but 4-wheel drive vehicles are necessary to get further afield: animals on the road and potholes may cause problems. There is street lighting only in the capital. There is a
bus network, and
share taxis are also in operation. The only public transport on Principe is a minibus.
Car hire can be arranged through the Miramar Hotel (see below).
Documentation: An International Driving Permit is not legally required but is recommended.
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