The Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (DPRK) is almost completely unexploited by commercial tourism and rarely visited by foreigners. There is a wealth of unspoiled natural wilderness and the cultural background of the world’s only Stalinist state makes any trip here out of the ordinary.

Weather
The North Korean climate is moderate and has four distinct seasons. The hottest time is July to August, which is also the rainy season and coldest temperatures are recorded from December to January. Winters in the Far North can be much more severe. Spring and Autumn are mild and mainly dry.

Local Customs
Foreigners are always welcomed by the Korean people and are seen as guests in their country. Certainly if tourists are willing to smile and be courteous they will receive a very positive response. It is one of the last places in the world where there are virtually no visitors and tourists can have a big impact on whomsoever they meet. As when visiting any foreign country it is always polite to respect the local customs and if you can manage a few words of Korean, please, thank you etc, this will be very much appreciated. Some important No-no’s:

- Do not deface or in any way mock or mimic any picture of the Kims
- Do not use the Pyongyang Times etc to wrap bottles etc - treat it with respect
- At certain places don’t think that because the guides can’t see you that no-one is watching you
- Remember it isn’t you that will get in trouble – it is the guides
- Journalism warning
- If you are writing a web log then please advise us so that you limit the risk of causing a problem

Visas
Citizens of the United States of America, South Korea and people of South Korean origin are normally not permitted to visit North Korea. Israeli and Japanese nationals may also have difficulties to obtain a visa. Citizens of all other countries will need a visa, which will only be issued after your tour has been booked and approved by the North Korean authorities.

We can organise for your North Korean visa to be issued in Beijing for 30.00 Euro, or we can apply at the North Korea embassy in London for and the visa cost is £30.00.

Vaccinations
Nothing compulsory, but we recommend that your protection against Tetanus, Typhoid, infectious Hepatitis and Polio is up to date. Other courses or boosters usually advised are hepatitis A, typhoid, tetanus and poliomyelitis, and also occasionally diphtheria, tuberculosis, hepatitis B, Japanese B encephalitis and rabies.

Malaria precautions are essential in some Southern areas all year round (i.e. Kaesong, Kumgang Mountains) although antimalarial tablets are not usually required.

It is your responsibility to check all relevant recommendations and also to get the most up-to-date health information for the destinations being visited. You can contact your GP or any of the following organisations:

MASTA: Telephone: 0906 822 4100 www.masta.org
Live Travel Health Line: 09068 633414
www.fitfortravel.scot.nhs.uk

Flight Duration
Flight time to Pyongyang from London is 12 hours.

Accommodation and Transport
Choice of accommodation and facilities in North Korea are very limited. Hotel rooms are equipped with 2 beds but only one key is provided. You should bring all the toiletries you need, hairdryer, etc because they are not likely to be provided by the hotels. In Pyongyang, the Yanggakdo International Hotel has reliable hot water and heating/air con and electricity. Outside the capital water and electricity provision are not reliable.

You will be accompanied by your guide at all times, and the vehicle used in normally a saloon car for one to two people.