Libya

Introduction to Libya

The Great Socialist People's Libyan Arab Jamahiriya or Libya (Arabic: ليبيا, transliterated Lībiyyā) is a country in North Africa, bordering the Mediterranean Sea, located between Egypt on the east, Sudan on the southeast, Chad and Niger on the south and Algeria and Tunisia to the west. Its capital city is Tripoli. The three traditional sections of the country are Tripolitania, the Fezzan and Cyrenaica.

The name "Libya" derives from the ancient Egyptian term "Lebu", referring to Berber peoples living west of the Nile, and adopted into Greek as "Libya". In ancient Greece, the term had a broader meaning, encompassing all of North Africa west of Egypt, and sometimes referring to the entire continent of Africa.

Official Canadian government advisories for travelling to, in and around Libya

Particular attention should be paid when travelling on routes near the Niger, Chad, and Sudan borders. These regions are notorious for armed highway bandits, or "coupeurs de routes." Travellers should carry travel documents with them at all times.

Violent crime is lower than in most Western countries. However, armed carjackings and theft from vehicles occur from time to time, and beaches are the frequent sites of muggings and purse snatchings.

Demonstrations can occur, particularly to mark important anniversaries or political developments. Canadians should monitor local news reports closely, exercise caution, and avoid large crowds and demonstrations.