Benin Statistics

Geography-Population

Capital:  Porto-Novo (capital); Cotonou (seat of government)

Area:  112,622 sq km

Climate:  tropical; hot, humid in south; semiarid in north

Population:  9,325,032 people

Languages:  French (official), Fon and Yoruba (most common vernaculars in south), tribal languages (at least six

Government-Economy

Government type: republicNational holiday: independence the 1st August 1960 (from France)Currency: CFA Franc (XOF) ; 1 XOF = 653.73EUR ; 1 USD = 461.25 XOFGDP: $14.2 billion (2010 est.)GDP - per capita (PPP): $1,600 (2010 est.)

Information for Foreign Students in Benin
Travel Advice
You will need to do some vaccinations before your arrival for diseases such as: Hepatitis A, Diphtheria, Tetanus, Typhoid and Yellow fever. Tap water is not safe for foreigners who are not used to drink it; so you should boil or sterilize some water to brush your teeth, make ice and drink. Like for the water, milk should be boiled too. Powdered or tinned milk is available and is advised. Only eat well-cooked meat, fish and vegetables.

Obtaining a Visa
You will need a visa to get there, make sure it is valid during your stay and even 6months later.
To have information regarding the diverse requirements, go on the website of Benin Embassy in your country.
A yellow fever vaccination certificate is required for all travelers over one year of age. Risk occurs in all rural areas, but especially in Atakora and Borgou.

Housing
Here is a link for hotels or flats renting: http://www.homelidays.com/FR-Locations-Vacances/bj/appar_benin_r11.asp

Health
There are some health risks because Hepatitis E is widespread, Hepatitis B is hyper endemic and Hepatitis C occurs. I addition, depending on the area and the time of year, there is also Meningococcal meningitis risk. Therefore, immunization against hepatitis B, tuberculosis and meningococcal A and C is sometimes recommended.
Medical facilities are limited, especially outside the major towns, and not all medicines are available. Doctors and hospitals often expect immediate cash payment for health services. Medical insurance is strongly recommended.

Money
American Express, Diners Club, MasterCard and Visa are accepted on a limited basis. Some banks may advance cash or visa cards. In Benin, the CFA Franc - the official currency- used is only issued by the Bank of West African States is valid; whereas CFA Franc issued by the Bank of Central African States is not. The CFA Franc is tied to the Euro.