Mauritania - anyone been?

[offshorematt2]

Off to Mauritania for a few days next week with work and wondered if anyone had any knowledge of the place?

I'm told it is one of the less wild of the West African countries and compared with Nigeria, it probably is, if my old man's stories are anything to go by.

So am I likely to be shaken down by every official I meet? Wouldn't mind getting out the airport without getting arrested just because I didn't realise I was supposed to have ten bucks in my passport or something

[zac510]

Drove through a couple years ago. I imagine you're staying in Nouakchott?

It's pretty poor compared to the neighbouring African countries and there is no alcohol anywhere except the Western hotels. We couldn't get cash anywhere either. It's interesting but we were only there for one or two nights. I can't remember much more to be honest.

I do remember fondly their fresh bread. It's fantastic!

[offshorematt2]

Yeah, staying in Nouakchott for three nights.

No idea what the accomodation arrangements are or who I'm meeting at the airport. I'm also told the visa has been sorted locally (something our travel agents say isn't possible).

Sounds like it'll be a case of winging it. Should be fun!

[zac510]

The cars are amazing, beaten up old Renault 12s cast off from the other African countries, sometimes with half a carcass of meat roped onto the boot. We got our tourist visa from the embassy in London but sounds like your employer has that sorted.