REQUIREMENTS TO OBTAIN A VISA FOR ENTRY INTO BENIN

EMBASSY OF THE REPUBLIC OF BENIN CONSULATE OFFICE

2124 Kalorama Road N. W. WASHINGTON, DC. 20008

Tel: (202) 232-6656 / (202) 232-2611 Fax: (202) 265-1996 -:-:-::-:-:-:-:-:-

Email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. VISA REQUIREMENTS FOR US CITIZEN ONLY -:-:-:-:-:-:-:-:-:-

1. One (1) application form in legible writing

2. One (1) passport size photo.

3. International Certificate of Vaccination (yellow fever). A copy or the original is accepted.

4. $ 140.00 (Hundred forty dollars) fee for each applicant. (Money order or certified check must be issued to the Embassy of Benin and signed)

5. Photocopy of round-trip ticket or itinerary.

6. Join your passport to the form, the passport must be valid at list 6 months.

- Please, allow 72 hours (Three business days) for issuance of visa;

- For Rush (same day), please make a single money order or a certified check in the amount of $ 240.00 ($140 regular fees + $100 rush fees);

- All applicants are urged to comply with the application form available on the Embassy’s website and to fill out the form in all its parts;

- Any incomplete application files including a money order unfilled shall be rejected and the application fees shall not be refundable.

Please enclose self addressed certified envelope or an express mail return envelope.

Click on link below to download visa application form.

http://www.beninembassy.us/assets/3-visa-application-form.pdf

Benin Visa Notes

Duration: 4 days Nov 28- December 1, 2017

Relationship in Benin: None, Staying at Hotel Marina in Cotonou, Benin.

State exact Point of entry: Traveling to Ghana by flight from Amsterdam to Ghana then ground transportation on tour bus from Ghana through Togo then Benin.

Where do you go after you leave Benin: Ghana through Togo by tour bus.

Lodging Information: Benin Marina Hotel – 19 BP 1901 Boulavard

Phone # +229-2130-0100

TOUR PREPARATION/ WHAT TO PACK FOR YOUR JOURNEY TO GHANA, TOGO & BENIN

1.   Make sure you secure your personal documents including passport, ticket etc. (Scan a copy of these documents, save on your e-mail and leave a copy with family).

2.   Bring as much cash as you think you need $500-$1,000. Bank charge for using ATMs are high Credit Union are much lower. Check with your financial institution. Note: Call your bank before you depart to notify them that you are going to use your account in Africa.

3.   The weather is going to be in the low 70’s to mid 80’s like Jamaica; bring light clothing; sandals, shorts, walking shoes, sundress, tank tops, swimwear etc.

Casual/ African clothing for certain night life and evening events like welcome and farewell dinners.

4.   Bring any school supplies you can to donate to the children in Ghana; this includes books, bags, paper, pencils, calculators even clothing etc. We are also collecting black doll babies for the young children at the schools and orphanage.

5.  Calculator for basic things like currency exchange. Ghana Cedi exchange rate is4 for 1. 4 Ghana Cedis for each $1.00. Bring big bills $50s & $100s to get the best exchange rate for your money. 

6.  Camera with extra film or memory card and rechargeable batteries.

If you have electronics bring a converter, foreign adapters and an extension cord.

7.  Emergency things: Flash light, basic first aid kit, laxative, Pepto Bismal, Decongestants, Anti Diarrhea, Dramamine, any related emergency medicine or materials. Note that these medicines are not all natural; do your research for the safest and healthiest things to bring.

8.   Mosquito spray or repellant or Citronella Oil which is an excellent insect repellent.  (Avoid wearing scented lotions or oils mosquitoes like sweet scents). Note most of these sprays have dangerous chemicals do your research for the safest things to use.

9.  Toiletries including toilet tissue, soaps, feminine napkins, wet wipes, facial tissues wash cloth, beach towel, laundry soap etc.

10. Travel Iron, Alarm clock, plastic bags, compact umbrella and other convenient accessories.

11. Bring white clothing, Red-Black-Green clothing, white candles, four names or pictures of your deceased, revered ancestor for homage to our ancestors. The 2 set of clothing is for different ceremonies.  

12. Bank Account Requirements: 2 Passport style pictures, driver license and Passport. 

13. Games for leisure time, social gathering and tournaments including deck of cards, Dominoes, Chess, general board games etc.

14. Non-perishable snacks like trail mix.

15. Yoga Mat or any kind of convenient work out gear.

Note: These are mainly recommendations and suggestions to prepare you for your journey to Ghana. You may pick and choose what works for you and do your own research for additional things you need to bring.

CULTURAL/ CUSTOMS & OTHER KEY THINGS TO KNOW

1.  When you visit do not come with a romanticized notion about Ghana/ Africa or you will be disappointed and unnecessarily frustrated. Come with open eyes and an open mind, knowing that Ghana is a developing nation. There is much to do and we can be a positive contributory part of it. Keep in mind that Ghana/ Africa is not America or Europe nor do we want it to be. We are Mother Africa’s children returning home and we want to be part of Mother Africa’s growth and development.

2.   It is important to make “spiritual” contact with the land. Plant or adopt a tree or place near the ocean or riverside that you can claim as your mediation site.

3.  Due to the beautiful and warm climate of Ghana hot water for bathing is not always available.

4.   Air conditioning is not always guaranteed in all establishments including hotels and buses.

5.   Electricity may go out from time to time. Hotels are backed by generators if this happens.

6.   The sewer system in the capital city of Accra and some other cities or areas is open so you may smell the odor of the sewer but it is not unbearable.

7.   Drink bottle water because your body will not have time to adjust to the local water.

8.   Raw Fruits and Vegetables are recommended to eat; your body might not be able to handle certain meats or cook food. (Research and think about what you are consuming. try not to over consume or combine too many different foods).

9.   Never ask a Ghanaian “Are you crazy or mad?” It is a big insult- almost unforgivable.

10.  It is important to be generous, to receive the generosity of others (i.e., accept food or water offered or graciously say, No thank you”. Do not turn up your nose or “mash up” (frown) your face.

11.  It is standard practice to shake hands when introduced and when leaving. It is an insult to shake hands with the left hand or to wave to an older person or a person of higher social status or rank.

12.  It is customary when giving something to use your right hand and in greeting more than one person, start shaking hands from right, moving to the left.

13. Crossing one’s legs in the house of worship or while sitting in front of a chief or someone of higher status or rank is considered extremely rude.

 14.  It is important to greet people first, before asking for their services.

 15.  Whenever you visit a Ghanaian home, it is their custom to offer you water first, if you cannot drink the water, politely decline, explaining that you are not accustomed to the drinking water. Next, your host will ask, “Is someone in pursuit of you)?” After you answer and that is out of the way, you are then asked, “What is the nature of your visit?”

 16.  Raising the thumb improperly is equivalent to raising the middle finger in the United States.

 17.  The American circular finger and thumb “OK” sign is also considered obscene.

 18.  Secure your money properly & be aware of pickpockets in crowed places.

 19.  No photo taking allowed at Airports, state office building, and other government facilities. Your film will be confiscated and you could be arrested.

 20.  Ghanaians are very friendly!  However, be wary of people who just want to make quick money off you and make promises they cannot keep. You should know as much as possible about the people you are planning to do business with.

 21.  AFTA Tours does not offer travel insurance but it can be purchased from an independent insurer.

 22. Bank Accout Requirements: 2 Passport style pictures, drivers license and Passport. www.ubagroup.com

 When packing luggage remember that less is better. You will want to purchase clothing and artifacts to bring home.

 You are allowed 2 bags of 50 pounds for check in and 1 carry on & a Small bag.

 Packing less will allow sufficient space to accommodate your purchases.

INFORMATION ON IMPROVING OUR IMMUNITY

As we prepare for this life changing voyage to Africa, let us take time to reflect on the biological/ physical needs of our bodies. With a holistic approach, I humbly offer this compilation of information in how we can take care of our body/temple and enhance our overall immunity.

In addition, for participants and parents who wish to take immunization shots and tablets, they can be ordered from your local County Health Department through the travel nurse at:  (404) 765-4155. 

The Immune System

The immune system is the part of our body that recognizes viruses, bacteria, fungi, parasites and foreign bodies and signals the brain to activate immune processes. It includes the thymus, spleen, lymphatic system, bone marrow, white blood cells, antibodies, and hormones. Each element works in harmony with other elements of our bodies in order to keep us healthy.

Supporting your immune system may help with everything from frequent colds to arthritis to cancer. In our travels, our physical health will help our ability to mentally and spiritually grow as we Return Home.

Daily Advice – Before, during, and after your journey home

Eat colorful meals regularly. Enjoy as many fresh fruits and vegetables as you can. The more different colors, the more variety of nutrients you’ll digest.

Drink water all day. At least 8 – 16 oz glasses throughout the day.

Rest your mind and body. Get solid rest (5-8 hrs per night) that in a quite space- no radio and no TV to infect your dreams! Careful not to oversleep.

Set your biological clock to that of the sun. Wake up at sunrise and go to sleep soon after sunset.

Exercise! Walk, run, stretch, swim, or dance till you break a sweat at least 2-3 times a week. Be mindful of your posture and how you carry yourself. Walk with your body; don’t drag it along like a burden.

Avoid excess stress, from internal or external forces, mentally, physically, emotionally, environmentally, communally, etc. Stress can compromise your immune system. 

 Breath. Use this life force to help keep you centered. Breath fully and breath deeply.

 Affirm the positive through prayer, mediation, visualization and word/sound. 

Nutritional Support – Before during and after your journey home

In addition to a well rounded fresh food diet, the following are a number of herbs and supplements that can enhance our immunity. Garlic, Vit. C, Charcoal, Pau D’Arco and Echinacea are, in my humble estimation, the most important for us to consume while in Africa. Tea tree oil is a multi use oil good for scratches, fungus, bites and repelling mosquitoes. Citronella is good for that as well.

NOTE: This is not a prescription! Please consult your own body to know what’s good for you. You may also talk to your family about your genetic medical history and/or your medical or naturopathic doctor. 

Garlic: helps to fortify the immune system and supports circulation in the body. Available fresh, cooked, juiced, or in capsule form, ingesting large amounts of this daily will help reduce the instances of mosquitoes biting while in Ghana. For overall health, I recommend that you consume at least a clove of garlic each day. Studies suggest that you can get similar benefits from cooked garlic -- if you first let it sit out a while after peeling. When garlic is peeled an enzyme called allinase begins a series of chemical reactions that create beneficial health effects. If you take garlic extract in liquid form, a recommended serving is 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon mixed with fruit or vegetable juice, twice daily with meals. As for garlic capsules, take 1 to 3 capsules daily, depending on your level of free-radical exposure.

Vitamin C: When you need extra immune support, I recommend you take 500 to 1,000 milligrams every 2 hours. Even without the onset of a flu or cold, I personally take 2,000 mg of C each day, along with bioflavonoids and other synergistic nutrients like vitamin E. When Vitamin C is taken with zinc, propolis and elderberry extract, a good daily maintenance dose is 100 mg. 

Pau d/arco Pau d'arco is an incredibly versatile herb with antibiotic, antifungal, immunostimulant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-tumor properties. This herb has been used with candida and other fungal problems, staph infections, viral infections including herpes, and skin problems including eczema and psoriasis. Historically it was used to treat leukemia, diabetes, and cancer. Available in an extracted tincture, capsules and/or in tea form.

Charcoal  Charcoal is used to relieve painful pressure caused by excess gas in the stomach and intestines, diarrhea, and indigestion. Take as directed by the label with a full glass of water. DO NOT mix with other medicines as it binds to 

them and reduces their effectiveness. To or benefit, It also binds to poisonous subtanse and carries them out of the body. 

Purple coneflower (Echinacea angustifolia): helps increase certain responses of the immune system. Powdered echinacea capsules can be found in most health food stores (recommended dosages are given on the product labels). You can obtain some of the best results with echinacea by using the liquid plant extracts -- for adults five to 10 drops in 1/4 cup of water taken five times daily is generally recommended). Note: Certain individuals don't seem to benefit from echinacea, including hyperactive persons, those who are extremely sensitive to environmental pollutants and chemicals, and AIDS patients. 

Tea tree Oil: Tea Tree Oil is a natural antiseptic, germicide, antibacterial, fungicide. Many people use tea tree oil for: athletes foot, cold and flu, oral thrush, cold sores & canker sores, tooth ache & gum infections, ringworm, candida, head lice or louse, cleanser additive, gum problems, mosquito bites, bug repellent, cockroaches, deter flees, mouth ulcers, herpes, cuts, abrasions, after shave, sunburn, anorectal or vaginal yeast infections, unwanted body odors, acne, toe nail infections, and many other uses. 

Citronella Oil of Citronella is volatile, liquid oil derived from dried cultivated grasses. It works by repelling animals and insects without harming or killing them. It has a distinctive odor, which repels certain animals. It is available as a additive to sprays, lotions, candles, colloras, and tablets, as well as a pure extracted essential oil. 

Zinc: Promotes immune function. One 23-mg zinc gluconate lozenge every two wakeful hours after an initial double dose has been found to provide symptom relief. While the only side effect associated with zinc is its bad taste, this routine shouldn't be continued any longer than a week. Excessive zinc can eventually create a copper deficiency and weaken the immune system. The recommended daily dose for zinc when taken with vitamin C, propolis and elderberry extract is 10 mg.

Bee Propolis: Research shows that this waxy resin used by bees to waterproof their hives has immune enhancing properties. The recommended daily dose when taken with elderberry extract, zinc and vitamin C is 75 mg.

Elderberry Extract: The active ingredients in elderberries have been found to protect your cells from harmful invaders. I recommend taking 4 g daily of elderberry extract in conjunction with the Vitamin C, Propolis and Zinc.

 Vitamin A: Initial doses as high as 100,000 units daily can be very beneficial. The dose should then be dropped back to 10,000 to 25,000 IU daily to avoid problems with toxicity.

Turmeric (from root): has been used for centuries in India and China for a variety of health concerns, including boosting the immune system.

Grapefruit Seed Extract: Drinking three to four drops per 8 oz of water per day helps maintain immune system function. This extract is also a good remedy for cleansing your sinuses: 

Shark cartilage: Long-time ALTERNATIVES readers know that I've written about the benefits of shark cartilage for years. Among its many beneficial properties, shark cartilage helps support your overall healthy immune system function. I recommend 100 mg daily.

Slippery Elm: This herb has mucus-eliminating properties and helps promote respiratory health. 20 mg daily is recommended.

 Peppermint powder: Helps support immune function. 17 mg a day is recommended.

Eucalyptus Oil: You can take 2 mg daily along with the other herbal immune boosters mentioned here.

Una de Gato/Cats Claw Many have experienced such wonderful results with una de gato that it is now considered equal, if not superior, to the world's foremost immune-fortifying herbs:  echinacea, golden seal, pau d'arco, garlic, and Siberian ginseng.  It has also been compared favorably with shark cartilage and caprylic acid.  It is particularly beneficial to the immune, digestive, and structural systems.

Remember to do your research and get in tune for what is right for you.

Be open to try new things and be ready to explore what is closest to NATURE.