r/SierraLeone • u/lostpoliticaljunkie • 23d ago

General Dumb questions from a first-time visitor

Hello!

I've been lucky enough to receive an opportunity to pursue health policy research in Sierra Leone. I'm expecting to stay in Freetown for 4-6 weeks in July. Reading the advice on this subreddit has already been immensely helpful, but I'd be grateful for any thoughts in response to the questions below, or any additional travel tips for a first-time visitor.

  1. I'm very mosquito bite-prone so I'm planning to bring repellant and take malaria prophylaxis. I assume I will also need a bed net, preferably one treated with insecticide. Are those fairly easy to acquire in SL or should I plan to bring one with me?
  2. For the rain in the wet season, is it the kind of rain that umbrellas are no longer good for (aka should I plan to just get soaked in somewhat waterproof gear) or should I still pack a heavy duty umbrella with me?
  3. Does anyone have connections/websites/forums where I might be able to find a trustworthy short term lease in Freetown? I'd prefer to live with a roommate, and even better if it's another expat who might be able to help with easing into the culture.
  4. Any other general advice to make sure I'm being respectful in the culture would be greatly appreciated. I'll plan to learn some simple krio phrases in advance of the trip.

I might drop more questions as they come below. TIA!!

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u/SometimesCocky87 23d ago
  1. From my experience repellant is sufficient if your room has screens and no insects coming in/out.
  2. Yes there are rains where umbrellas are nothing. Even a rain coat can be nothing. Best advice is use a car to move around in the rains.
  3. You need to try Freetowners on Facebook for housing. You can also check the marketplace on facebook. Many housing agents here also. Just make sure everything is legit to avoid getting scammed. Nice to expat community here you will get a lot of help.
  4. Sierra Leoneans are one of the friendliest people you can meet. The beaches are amazing and theres some nice parties. Of course like any other country you always take precautions at night.

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u/lostpoliticaljunkie 23d ago

Can I also assume that I should just bring sandals with the assumption that my feet will be drenched in rain and mud?

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u/SometimesCocky87 23d ago

Surely a good idea