Joanna James
Lesotho, also called the 'Kingdom of the Sky', is a landlocked nation encircled by South Africa. The destination has become a famous holiday location due to its incredible scenic beauty and culture. If Lesotho is on your mind, then read below to get an idea of what to expect.
Expats travelling to Lesotho typically do so on short-term engagements like tourism. However, if you are looking at a lengthier stay for business or as a resident, ex-pats will most likely stay near the capital, Maseru. The range of hotels, B&B and motels is quite sufficient for a comfortable stay with all the required amenities at your fingertips. If you're looking for rental apartments, know that they are limited and can be costly, so start your search well ahead. A decent-sized apartment can cost around $750 monthly. Look out for Maseru West, Thetsane, and White City Lower for accommodation. Check the classified sections in newspapers, and ask for recommendations from people you may know as well! If looking for a meeting venue in Lesotho, the likes of Avani Lesotho Hotel & Casino offer great options.
To apply for a driving license in Lesotho, expatriates should provide their domestic driving license and their international license. This allows expatriates to drive for 6 months. After this, expatriates must get a Lesotho driving license via the Ministry of Public Works and Transport. Applications should include the following additional documents: two passport photos, the national passport, and a small application fee payable to the revenue office.
Despite all the would-be problems, no one can deny that Lesotho is stunning! This is where your driving license will come in handy! You will have the freedom to explore this incredible landscape as you please. Hiring a car from Mesaru is also an option.
The road quality is slowly upgrading throughout Lesotho; however, it can be a chaotic experience in the cities. For instance, when there is no traffic, cars do not halt at the traffic lights! In terms of public transport, coaches and minibuses are great means of getting about in populated cities.
The healthcare sector in Lesotho is typically below the standards of what you would be used to in most countries. Emergency, as well as ambulatory services, can be unreliable, and important medical procedures are directed to the bordering city of Bloemfontein in South Africa. Thus, it is important to make sure that you have the legal authority to seek such services. Ensure that you have a South African visa or the necessary exemptions to visit the country.
Get reputable health insurance cover that includes compensation for medical expenses and repatriation. Expatriates must also bring an adequate reserve of their prescription medicines into the country, as some might not be freely available!
Do not wear expensive jewellery, watches, designer bags etc. Pickpocketing and bag-snatching can happen! Wear a sling bag when heading out, instead of a shoulder bag.
Wandering around at nighttime is unwise. There are many reports of travellers getting mugged, so stay in places where there are plenty of people. There will be periodic shows of political unrest in Maseru; therefore, stay indoors during such times.
A true believer that the pen is a mighty weapon, ventures into reaching the minds of every reader with the earnest hope of leaving an indelible stream of thought.
A travel writer who has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world.
