Travel to Botswana to backpack, study, intern, volunteer, work, or live as a digital nomad, expat or emigrant?

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 Botswana

Intro

Backpacking or traveling in Botswana?

  • Botswana boasts one of Africa's finest natural treasures with the game parks of the Okavango Delta! The country offers a remote, serene atmosphere that is ideal for adventurers and nature lovers. Wildlife safaris are the biggest draw here, where you get to interact with some of the world's most iconic animals.
  • It's not a very easy country to travel in if you don't have your own car, but don't let that stop you!
  • Activity spotting: going on safari in Chobe National Park; exploring the Okavango Delta; visiting the Makgadikgadi salt pans; hiking safari in Moremi Game Reserve; cultural tours to the San communities; discovering rock paintings in the Tsodilo Hills; stargazing on the salt pans; visiting Nxai Pan National Park. 
  • Animal spotting: of course that's what you go to Botswana for! It is one of the best places in the world to spot wild animals in their natural habitat. You can spot elephants, lions, leopards, buffalo, hippos, giraffes, wild dogs, hyenas, antelopes (including kudu and impala), osprey, spoonbills, pelicans, African bald eagle, Nile crocodile, yellow-throated dragon, bullfrog, among others. 
  • Food spotting: seswaa (stewed meat, usually with corn porridge), porridge (cornmeal porridge), morogo (wild spinach), fat cake (fried bread), braai (BBQ), mopane worms (delicacy for the adventurous eater ;)), gem squash (popular vegetable). 

Studying in Botswana?

  • Botswana offers solid educational opportunities, especially in environmental studies, development and medical studies. The University of Botswana in Gaborone is the largest and most prestigious university in the country. Higher education in Botswana has developed significantly, with English as the primary language of instruction.
  • Environmental science, health care, engineering and development economics are popular studies.
  • Study cities: Gaborone, Francistown, Maun. 
  • Language: English. 

Internship in Botswana?

  • There are several opportunities for internships in Botswana, especially in the fields of conservation, international development and health care. Well-known natural areas such as the Okavango Delta offer opportunities for work in ecotourism and environmental research.
  • Competencies: knowledge of conservation and sustainability, professional English, intercultural communication, working with local communities and international organizations. 

Volunteer in Botswana?

  • There are a huge number of options for volunteering in Botswana. The work often revolves around conservation and community development. Examples include working in game reserves, with wildlife, at local schools or health projects. Most options focus on endangered species conservation or helping local communities.

Working in Botswana?

  • Foreigners often find work in tourism, conservation, health care and education. There are also opportunities in the mining industry, one of the most important sectors of the economy. You can usually find work in larger cities such as Gaborone, Maun and Francistown.

Working as a digital nomad in Botswana?

  • Although Botswana is not known as a hotspot for digital nomads, there are opportunities to work remotely and combine it with many adventurous activities. Not wrong right?
  • However, reliable Internet connections are more limited outside the major cities.
  • Favorite locations: Gaborone and Maun. 

Living in Botswana?

  • Living in the land of elephants, among wildlife, with the convenience of the English language and at a friendly price. Botswana is becoming an increasingly popular expat country, and for good reason! 
  • It is also a pretty safe country, but be aware that due to the large difference between rich and poor, petty crime does occur.
  • For families with children there are international schools available, especially in Gaborone. 
  • The official language is English, but if you also want to make friends in the remote areas (or just be polite and able to communicate), make sure you know some words of Setswana as well. 
  • Climate: Botswana has a semi-arid climate with hot summers and mild winters. The dry seasons are ideal for wildlife safaris, while the rainy seasons transform the country into a green oasis.
  • Culture: The colorful culture is one of the best things about living in Botswana. As such, locals are very proud of it. Furthermore, locals are incredibly friendly and helpful. 
  • Health insurance: public health care is not always of sufficient quality in remote places. Private care and medical evacuation can be expensive, so make sure you have your own well-covered health insurance.
Botswana Country Bundle: suggestions, stories and tips

Botswana Country Bundle: suggestions, stories and tips

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Content about Botswana on WorldSupporter

Botswana: Updates & Travel

Botswana: Updates & Travel

Travel in Botswana?

  • Botswana owes its name to the people the Tswana. Bo means “land” in Setwana. So Botswana means land of the Tswana. Botswana has always been one of the least corrupt countries in Africa. Botswana is 70% desert. The beautiful Kalahari Desert is not the only natural beauty to be found in Botswana. The game parks and the Okavango Delta are also worth a visit. It is a not too cheap country, but it is enormously beautiful. By African standards, you should bring a bag of money. Then immediately, if all goes well, everything is better arranged and you can see the outstanding game parks.
  • Go shopping in Gaborone: The Mall is the central shopping area in Gaborone. Many upscale stores are located here. The African Mall is a shopping area with some less chic and more authentic stores.
  • Throughout Botswana several markets are organized. Almost all markets sell fruits and vegetables, sometimes meat as well. There are also all kinds of handmade items for sale, such as wood carvings, colorful wooden masks and stone statues. At markets and stalls, it is normal to haggle.
  • Not so long ago, Maun consisted of a number of authentic African huts. Today it is the gateway to the Okavango Delta and is also called the safari capital of Botswana. The tourist center of Maun is modern, but on the outskirts are still the traditional huts of the locals. The city has an international airport and for many travelers is the starting and ending point of a trip through Botswana.
  • Tsodillo Hills: In the Kalahari, northwest of the Okavango Delta, lie these mysterious rock formations with more than 2,500 petroglyphs of the legendary Bushmen.
  • Soccer is the national sport of Botswana. At the international level, Botswana does not count (yet), but in Gaborone there is a 20,000-seat stadium. The national team Gaborone United was founded in 1967. That same year they became national champions for the first time. Watching a match is a great experience!
  • Check the central Kalahari Game Reserve. It is a beautiful desert known for its colorful, red sand dunes and lots of different wildlife. You can participate in a bushmen-led survival trek.
  • Chobe National Park is about 11,700 km² in size. It is mostly home to many elephants. It is estimated between 50,000 to 100,000 elephants. The park is divided into four different eco-systems: Serondela, with its dense forests and lush plains; the Savuti Swamps; the Linyanti Swamps and the hot, dry area in the middle.
  • The Okavango Delta is without doubt the most fascinating area of Botswana it is a maze of rivers, canals, lagoons and islands filled with palm trees.
  • The Makgadikgadi Pans used to be a large lake, with sections more than 30 meters deep. Nowadays there are mostly salt pans, but if there is any rain it attracts rhinos, waterbucks, antelope and lions.
  • Be prepared should you rent a car in Botswana, note that you must drive on the left!

Updates Botswana

  • More about Botswana, updates and contributions, see the link below.

 

How does healthcare work in Botswana, and what travel insurance, health insurance or expat insurance do you need?

How does healthcare work in Botswana, and what travel insurance, health insurance or expat insurance do you need?

How does the healthcare system work in Botswana?

What is the quality of healthcare in Botswana?

  • The best of Botswana: elephants, diamonds and safaris. Unfortunately, healthcare is not yet included in this list. Healthcare is reasonable, but there is still room for improvement.
  • Healthcare in Botswana is improving, but is still lagging behind the EU and South Africa, for example. With the growth of the number of expats in the country, healthcare will probably also improve.
  • The majority of healthcare facilities are public (around 98%), but there are also private healthcare facilities.
  • For more than 95% of residents, there is a health centre within 8 km of their home.
  • The best healthcare can be found in urban areas, especially in Gaborone and Francistown.
  • In general, people in Botswana speak good English, but if you live in a remote area, it is useful to learn some Setswana to explain your medical problems. It is quicker than hand and foot work.
  • Call 997 in case of a medical emergency. Ambulances and air ambulances are available.

How does the public healthcare system work in Botswana?

  • Botswana has a universal healthcare system - free healthcare for all residents. This includes maternity care, HIV/AIDS treatment and vaccinations. Expats usually pay a fee for care of around 70 USD.
  • Doctors are well trained and the quality of care is improving, but challenges remain. For example, there are long waiting times and shortages of money.
  • There are also some medical clinics that exaggerate their expertise and talk about it, but not really. So always check whether your clinic has the right papers and experience.
  • Finding specialist care is difficult.

How does the private healthcare system work in Botswana?

  • Private healthcare in the big cities is much better in quality and more efficient than public healthcare. For this reason, many foreigners choose the private sector.
  • Outside the big cities there are sometimes mobile clinics, but the care is much more limited. Doctors have often completed their training abroad and can provide good care. The facilities are also relatively up-to-date.
  • Gaborone and Francistown have good private hospitals.
  • Private care is quite expensive in Botswana, so it is important to have good insurance.
  • You often have to pay cash, and sometimes you even have to prove that you have health insurance.

How is the general practitioner arranged in Botswana?

  • Certainly in Gaborone and Francistown you can find GPs, although they are not as common as in western countries.

How is the dentist arranged in Botswana?

  • Dental clinics can also be found mainly in the large cities.

How is pregnancy care arranged in Botswana?

  • Most mothers-to-be opt for pregnancy and maternity care in the private sector. The quality of care is good here, fairly comparable to western countries, and it is easy to find English-speaking doctors. In Gaborone in particular, but also in other large cities, there are good doctors who can supervise pregnancies.
  • Public healthcare often has fewer facilities and waiting times are longer.

How safe or unsafe is a trip or stay in Botswana?

What should you pay attention to in terms of safety in Botswana?

  • What should you pay attention to in terms of safety in Botswana?
  • In general, Botswana is a pleasant and safe country to live in, but crime does occur.
  • Risk areas are Gaborone, Francistown and Maun. Petty crime and house and car burglaries occur more often here.
  • Another, fairly unique, danger is wildlife. Always watch out for wild animals, especially if you are driving yourself.
  • It is safer to go to townships with someone who knows the area.

What should you look out for in terms of diseases in Botswana?

  • In parts of Botswana you run the risk of malaria. So protect yourself well against mosquitoes and discuss the risks with a vaccination doctor.
  • The country has one of the highest percentages of HIV/AIDS.
  • Are you going into the bushes? Then you can also get bitten by a tick.
  • Dogs also bite and can have rabies. If you are bitten, wash the wound well and seek medical help immediately.
  • Drink enough and use sunscreen, the last thing you want is to faint, just after you have spotted that big elephant!

What should you pay attention to when it comes to traffic in Botswana?

  • Most people prefer using their own car, or hire a driver, because public transport outside the cities is not really your thing.
  • The roads in cities are usually of good quality, but if you go outside the city, it quickly becomes worse.
  • Don't always expect predictable driving behavior! Drivers sometimes like to drive chaotically, aggressively and recklessly...
  • There are many traffic accidents. The main causes are drunk drivers and people who drive too fast.
  • Avoid driving at night, especially in areas with poor street lighting. Something or someone could jump out onto the road!
  • Keep the car doors and windows locked, especially at night!
  • Public transport is cheap and limited. You can use public buses and “combis” (shared vans).

What work and travel insurance policies are suitable for short and long stays in Botswana?

  • Is the trip to Botswana and your return sufficiently covered? Are you sufficiently covered before, during and after your activities? Which insurance best suits your trip and your activity? Read more about insurances for abroad on JoHoinsurances.org.

What emigration and expat insurance can you take out for Botswana if you are going to live there for a while?

  • To cover the high costs of private healthcare in Botswana, good international health insurance is very important. Also make sure that such insurance covers medical evacuation and repatriation.
  • Read more about insurances for abroad on Expatinsurances.org.
Botswana: Updates & Travel

Botswana: Updates & Travel

Travel in Botswana?

  • Botswana owes its name to the people the Tswana. Bo means “land” in Setwana. So Botswana means land of the Tswana. Botswana has always been one of the least corrupt countries in Africa. Botswana is 70% desert. The beautiful Kalahari Desert is not the only natural beauty to be found in Botswana. The game parks and the Okavango Delta are also worth a visit. It is a not too cheap country, but it is enormously beautiful. By African standards, you should bring a bag of money. Then immediately, if all goes well, everything is better arranged and you can see the outstanding game parks.
  • Go shopping in Gaborone: The Mall is the central shopping area in Gaborone. Many upscale stores are located here. The African Mall is a shopping area with some less chic and more authentic stores.
  • Throughout Botswana several markets are organized. Almost all markets sell fruits and vegetables, sometimes meat as well. There are also all kinds of handmade items for sale, such as wood carvings, colorful wooden masks and stone statues. At markets and stalls, it is normal to haggle.
  • Not so long ago, Maun consisted of a number of authentic African huts. Today it is the gateway to the Okavango Delta and is also called the safari capital of Botswana. The tourist center of Maun is modern, but on the outskirts are still the traditional huts of the locals. The city has an international airport and for many travelers is the starting and ending point of a trip through Botswana.
  • Tsodillo Hills: In the Kalahari, northwest of the Okavango Delta, lie these mysterious rock formations with more than 2,500 petroglyphs of the legendary Bushmen.
  • Soccer is the national sport of Botswana. At the international level, Botswana does not count (yet), but in Gaborone there is a 20,000-seat stadium. The national team Gaborone United was founded in 1967. That same year they became national champions for the first time. Watching a match is a great experience!
  • Check the central Kalahari Game Reserve. It is a beautiful desert known for its colorful, red sand dunes and lots of different wildlife. You can participate in a bushmen-led survival trek.
  • Chobe National Park is about 11,700 km² in size. It is mostly home to many elephants. It is estimated between 50,000 to 100,000 elephants. The park is divided into four different eco-systems: Serondela, with its dense forests and lush plains; the Savuti Swamps; the Linyanti Swamps and the hot, dry area in the middle.
  • The Okavango Delta is without doubt the most fascinating area of Botswana it is a maze of rivers, canals, lagoons and islands filled with palm trees.
  • The Makgadikgadi Pans used to be a large lake, with sections more than 30 meters deep. Nowadays there are mostly salt pans, but if there is any rain it attracts rhinos, waterbucks, antelope and lions.
  • Be prepared should you rent a car in Botswana, note that you must drive on the left!

Updates Botswana

  • More about Botswana, updates and contributions, see the link below.

 

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Why get specific insurance when going abroad: per activity abroad
Why should you take out specialized travel insurance for a long trip abroad?

Why should you take out specialized travel insurance for a long trip abroad?

What is round the world travel insurance or long-term travel insurance?

  • Round the world travel insurance means that you take out insurance that continues to provide coverage during all your activities abroad, and which is specifically intended for those who travel for long periods of time, such as world travelers, globetrotters, and nomads.

Why should you take out specialized travel insurance for a long trip abroad?

  • Round the world travel insurance provides coverage for a much longer trip than regular travel insurance.
  • World travel insurance is specifically intended for longer trips, whereas regular travel insurance may offer coverage on paper, but in practice handles it differently.
  • World travel insurance is suitable for many types of activities, ranging from high-altitude trekking to more risky sports.
  • World travel insurance continues to provide coverage if you start working during your trip, whether planned or unplanned. If you did not take out insurance before departure that allows you to work, there is no guarantee that you will be able to take out insurance that provides coverage while abroad.
  • Long-term travel insurance continues to provide coverage when your home country's health insurance no longer does.
  • Worldwide travel insurance also covers your medical expenses up to the actual cost, and not just for the standard costs. The costs per medical treatment vary greatly between countries.
  • Worldwide travel insurance can also continue to provide coverage if negative travel advice is issued.

What is important to insure when you are going to travel around the world?

  • That you have insurance that is valid in the countries where you are going to travel and posibly work.
  • That you are adequately insured for the sports and activities you are going to participate in during your full period abroad
  • That you are insured for emergency assistance and early return if something happens to you or your immediate family.
  • That your medical expenses are insured up to the actual cost and not just for the standard costs. The costs per medical treatment vary greatly between countries.
  • That you insure your luggage and take sufficient precautions against theft or damage.
  • That you are well insured against personal liability.
  • That you are well insured in case of accidents.
  • That you only insure yourself for legal assistance if there is an immediate reason to do so, unless coverage is already automatically included in the insurance.
  • That you pay close attention to choosing the right coverage when performing work or voluntary work during your world trip.

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Why should you take out specific insurance when you go on a trip or vacation?

Why should you take out specific insurance when you go on a trip or vacation?

What is insurance for traveling abroad?

  • Travel insurance is insurance that provides coverage for risks during a trip or vacation abroad. This mainly concerns loss of or damage to your luggage, medical assistance, or repatriation costs if you need to be transported back home urgently. In some cases, travel insurance coverage also applies on domestic trips.
  • With annual travel insurance or multi-trip travel insurance, you are insured for all your trips throughout the year.
  • With temporary travel insurance or single-trip travel insurance, you take out insurance for each trip for the duration of the trip.
  • Cancellation insurance reimburses (all or part of) the travel sum, cancellation or accommodation costs if you have to cancel or interrupt your vacation.

Why should you take out travel insurance for a short trip, vacation, or long-distance trip?

  • Travel insurance can provide coverage in the event of an accident or emergency while you are abroad.
  • Travel insurance can provide coverage for damage and accidents during the adventurous or sporting activities you plan to do.
  • Travel insurance can continue to provide coverage if your health insurance no longer provides coverage, or if the damage is only reimbursed at cost price of your home country.
  • Travel insurance can provide coverage in the event of damage, loss, or theft of your luggage.
  • Travel insurance can provide coverage if you are held liable for damage you cause to other people or their property.
  • Travel insurance can provide coverage if you have to return home early because something has happened to you or your immediate family.

What is important to insure when you are going to travel abroad?

  • That you have insurance that is valid in the country or countries that you are going to visit.
  • That you are adequately insured for the sports and activities you are going to participate in during your period abroad.
  • That you are insured for emergency assistance and early return if something happens to you or your immediate family.
  • That your medical expenses are insured up to the actual cost and not just for the standard costs. The costs per medical treatment vary greatly between countries.
  • That you insure your luggage and take sufficient precautions against theft or damage.
  • That you are well insured against personal liability.
  • That you are well insured in case of accidents.
  • That you only insure yourself for legal assistance if there is an immediate reason to do so, unless coverage is already automatically included in the insurance.
  • That you pay close attention to choosing the right coverage when performing work alongside your travels.

Check out more about international insurances

Why should you take out specialized travel insurance for working abroad?

Why should you take out specialized travel insurance for working abroad?

Why should you take out specialized travel insurance for paid work, voluntary work or an internship abroad?

  • There may be several reasons why you need separate insurance when working abroad.
  • During work, internships, or volunteer work abroad where you receive financial compensation (or, for example, food or housing), your national health insurance coverage may expire. You will then need special insurance to remain insured for illness and accidents.
  • During specific work abroad, additional requirements may apply if your work involves additional risks. Only specific insurance policies offer coverage during this type of work.
  • During your work, the risk of accidents is sometimes greater, for example because you are doing work with which you have little experience or because of the nature of the work.
  • During your work, local employers generally offer no or limited insurance that provides insufficient coverage.

What is important to insure when you are going to work abroad?

  • That you have insurance that is valid in the country or countries where you are going to travel and work.
  • That you are adequately insured for the sports and activities you are going to participate in during your period abroad
  • That you are insured for emergency assistance and early return if something happens to you or your immediate family.
  • That your medical expenses are insured up to the actual cost and not just for the standard costs. The costs per medical treatment vary greatly between countries.
  • That you insure your luggage and take sufficient precautions against theft or damage.
  • That you are well insured against personal liability.
  • That you are well insured in case of accidents.
  • That you only insure yourself for legal assistance if there is an immediate reason to do so, unless coverage is already automatically included in the insurance.
  • That you pay close attention to choosing the right coverage when performing work.

Check out more about international insurances

Why should you take out specialized travel insurance for volunteering abroad?

Why should you take out specialized travel insurance for volunteering abroad?

What is insurance for volunteering abroad?

  • Insuring volunteer work abroad means taking out insurance that continues to provide coverage while you are working as a volunteer abroad

Why should you take out specialized travel insurance for voluntary work abroad?

  • There may be several reasons why you need separate insurance when volunteering abroad.
  • During specific activities abroad, additional requirements may apply if your work involves extra risks. Only specific insurance policies offer coverage during these activities.
  • The risk of accidents is sometimes higher during your work, for example because you are doing work you have little experience with or because of the nature of the work.
  • Local projects or employers generally offer no or limited insurance that provides insufficient coverage during your work.
  • When volunteering abroad and receiving minor financial compensation (or, for example, food or housing), your home country's health insurance coverage will potentially lapse. You will then need special insurance to remain insured for illness and accidents.
  • Regular travel insurance policies generally provide coverage for trips of a limited number of days. If your trip or stay abroad exceeds the maximum number of days, this generally means that for the entire travel period, you will not be covered.
  • Regular travel insurance policies generally only provide coverage for recreational travel without voluntary work activities. If you engage in activities other than recreational activities (such as volunteer work), this generally means that for the entire travel period, you will not be covered.

What is important to insure when you are going to work as a volunteer abroad?

  • That you have insurance that is valid in the country or countries where you are going to travel and volunteer.
  • That you are adequately insured for the sports and activities you are going to participate in during your period abroad
  • That you are insured for emergency assistance and early return if something happens to you or your immediate family.
  • That your medical expenses are insured up to the actual cost and not just for the standard costs. The costs per medical treatment vary greatly between countries.
  • That you insure your luggage and take sufficient precautions against theft or damage.
  • That you are well insured against personal liability.
  • That you are well insured in case of accidents.
  • That you only insure yourself for legal assistance if there is an immediate reason to do so, unless coverage is already automatically included in the insurance.
  • That when performing work in healthcare, with wild animals, and with dangerous (agricultural) machinery, you take care to choose the right coverage.

Check out more about international insurances

Why should you take out specialized travel insurance for an internship abroad?

Why should you take out specialized travel insurance for an internship abroad?

What is insurance for an internship abroad?

  • Insuring an internship abroad means taking out insurance that continues to provide coverage during your internship abroad
  • Insurance for internships abroad are also referred to as internship insurance. This internship insurance is specifically for when you go abroad for a long period of time to work as an intern, take courses, or conduct research abroad.

Why should you take out specialized travel insurance for an internship abroad?

  • There may be several reasons why you need separate insurance for an internship abroad.
  • During internship activities abroad, additional requirements may apply as soon as you start performing work that involves additional risks. Only specific insurance policies offer coverage during these activities.
  • During your internship, the risk of accidents is sometimes greater, for example because you are doing work with which you have little experience or because of the nature of the work.
  • During your internship, local employers generally do not offer insurance, or offer limited insurance that does not provide sufficient coverage.
  • During an internship abroad where you receive financial compensation (or, for example, food or accommodation), your home country's health insurance coverage will potentially lapse. You will then need special insurance to remain insured for illness and accidents.
  • Regular travel insurance policies generally provide coverage for trips of a limited number of days. If your trip or stay abroad exceeds the maximum number of days, this generally means that for the entire travel period, you will not be covered.
  • Regular travel insurance policies generally only provide coverage for recreational trips without work activities.

What is important to insure when you are going to be an intern abroad?

  • That you have insurance that is valid in the area where you will be traveling and doing your internship.
  • That you are adequately insured for the sports and activities you will be participating in.
  • That you are insured for emergency assistance and early return in case something happens to you or your immediate family.
  • That your medical expenses are insured up to the actual cost (what it actually costs), and not just for the standard costs. The costs per medical treatment vary greatly between countries.
  • That you insure your luggage and take sufficient precautions against theft or damage.
  • That you are well insured against personal liability and, preferably, also for liability during your internship.
  • That you are well insured in case of accidents.
  • That you insure yourself for legal assistance if there is an immediate reason to do so, unless the coverage is already automatically included in the insurance.
  • Make sure you choose the right coverage for internship work in healthcare, with wild animals, or with dangerous machinery!

Check out more about international insurances

Why should you take out specialized travel insurance for studying abroad?

Why should you take out specialized travel insurance for studying abroad?

What is insurance for studying abroad?

  • Insurance for studying abroad means that you take out insurance that continues to provide coverage during your studies, your education, and your related activities abroad.
  • Insurance for studying abroad is also referred to as study insurance. This study insurance is specifically for when you go abroad for a long period of time to take courses, study, or conduct research abroad.

Why should you take out specialized travel insurance for a study abroad?

  • Study insurance is specifically designed for studying abroad, whereas regular travel insurance policies may offer coverage on paper but handle this situation differently in practice.
  • Study insurance offers coverage for longer stays than regular (vacation) travel insurance.
  • Study insurance is also suitable for many types of activities, ranging from various sports to hiking at high altitudes.
  • Study insurance continues to provide coverage if you start working during your trip, whether planned or unplanned. If you have not taken out insurance before departure that allows you to work, there is no guarantee that you will be able to take out insurance abroad that provides coverage.
  • Study insurance continues to provide coverage if your own country's health insurance no longer provides coverage.
  • Student insurance also covers your healthcare costs above the rates in your own country; with regular insurance, you have to pay the extra costs yourself.
  • Student insurance can also continue to provide coverage if (study) visa issuers impose additional requirements on how you insure yourself, for example if you are going to the US and applying for a J-1 visa.
  • Student insurance continues to provide coverage if you are staying abroad for a longer period of time and want to visit your own country in between.

What is important to insure when you are going to study abroad?

  • That you have insurance that is valid in the country or countries where you are going to travel and work.
  • That you are adequately insured for the sports and activities you are going to participate in during your period abroad
  • That you are insured for emergency assistance and early return if something happens to you or your immediate family.
  • That your medical expenses are insured up to the actual cost and not just for the standard costs. The costs per medical treatment vary greatly between countries.
  • That you insure your luggage and take sufficient precautions against theft or damage.
  • That you are well insured against personal liability.
  • That you are well insured in case of accidents.
  • That you only insure yourself for legal assistance if there is an immediate reason to do so, unless coverage is already automatically included in the insurance.
  • That you pay close attention to choosing the right coverage when performing work alongside your studies.

Check out more about international insurances

Why should you take out specialized insurance for moving abroad as an emigrant or an expat?

Why should you take out specialized insurance for moving abroad as an emigrant or an expat?

What is an emigration insurance and what is an expat insurance?

  • Emigration insurance is an insurance that continues to provide coverage if you move abroad permanently or for an indefinite period of time.
  • Emigration insurance is not only intended for emigrants, but for anyone who leaves their home country for an extended period of time and does not intend to return in the foreseeable future.
  • Expat insurance is insurance that continues to provide coverage if you go to work abroad for a local or international employer for an extended period of time.
  • Expat insurance is not only intended for expats, but for anyone who has a more permanent job abroad.

Why should you take out specialized insurance for emigration or working as an expat abroad?

  • Emigration or expat insurance not only provides coverage for acute assistance in the event of illness or accident abroad, such as travel insurance, but can also provide coverage for existing conditions and ailments or non-urgent care.
  • Emigration or expat insurance does not require you to maintain valid health insurance in your home country.
  • Emigration or expat insurance provides coverage for preventive care or costs related to pregnancy and childbirth.
  • Emigration or expat insurance also provides coverage for long-term treatments and chronic conditions without you having to return to your home country.
  • Emigration or expat insurance often has no restrictions on the duration of the insurance, unlike travel insurance.
  • Emigration or expat insurance usually maintains coverage in cases such as negative travel advice or acts of war.
  • Emigration or expat insurance offers various solutions in the areas of disability, home and household insurance, goods transport, and liability.

What is important to insure when you are going to move abroad?

  • That you have insurance that is valid in the country or countries where you are going to live and/or work.
  • That you are adequately insured for the sports and activities you are going to participate in during your period abroad
  • That you are insured for emergency assistance and early return if something happens to you or your immediate family.
  • That your medical expenses are insured up to the actual cost and not just for the standard costs. The costs per medical treatment vary greatly between countries.
  • That you are well insured against personal liability.
  • That you are well insured in case of accidents.
  • That you pay close attention to choosing the right coverage when performing work with additional health risks

Check out more about international insurances

Why should you take out travel insurance and why through the JoHo Foundation?

Why should you take out travel insurance and why through the JoHo Foundation?

Why Insurances through JoHo

  • Specialized: in emigration, work, internships, study and travel abroad.

  • Service: JoHo offers multiple travel insurances by multiple companies. Thanks to JoHo's extensive experience, it can offer support in case of problems with insurers, as well as advice and fast and personal handling.

  • Safe: JoHo is recognized as a trustworthy intermediary for insurances.

  • Social: by purchasing an insurance through JoHo you provide a talented student in The Philippines with health insurance

Why Should You Take Out A Travel Insurance?

  • The chance of getting injured or ill is generally higher than when you would have stayed at home. The medical care you will need can be very expensive, even more so if you are treated in a private clinic.

  • If you have to fly back because of family circumstances, the flights might be more expensive than your original flight because you have to fly on short notice.

  • You might have to deal with the damage, loss or theft of your luggage.

  • In case of emergency it can be difficult to figure out what to do. A good travel insurance will have an assistance team on standby for you 24/7 and will be able to tell you what steps to take.

Why Should You Specifically Take Out A Travel Insurance For A Long Trip Abroad?

  • Often regular travel or health insurances only cover trips for a maximum number of days (for example 60, 90 or 180 days).

  • Depending on your home country, your health insurance might not offer any coverage for treatment abroad.

  • During a long trip you might consider specific activities, like paid work or volunteering. Regular travel insurances often don’t cover these kind of activities. The same goes for adventurous/ hazardous sports like skydiving, scuba-diving and bungee jumping.

More on why to use JoHo

  • JoHo is one of the few organizations where you can directly purchase a comprehensive range of foreign insurances from a variety of insurers. As with our other products and services, we believe that you should be able to choose between the best, the most cost effective and the most specialized insurance.

  • JoHo offers various possibilities from combining insurances to assisting in transferring from one insurer to another.

  • When you purchase an insurance policy through JoHo, you will not pay more than if you had purchased it directly from the insurer. Sometimes (through special collective agreements) you will even pay less.

  • JoHo offers support with problems that may arise with the insurer. Sometimes disagreement with claims, cancellation notice or insurance premiums can occur. In this situation it helps if you have the assistance of an organization who has an established relationship with the insurer.

 

Read more about JoHo and JoHo Insurances

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Safety and insurances in Botswana

How does healthcare work in Botswana, and what travel insurance, health insurance or expat insurance do you need?

How does healthcare work in Botswana, and what travel insurance, health insurance or expat insurance do you need?

How does the healthcare system work in Botswana?

What is the quality of healthcare in Botswana?

  • The best of Botswana: elephants, diamonds and safaris. Unfortunately, healthcare is not yet included in this list. Healthcare is reasonable, but there is still room for improvement.
  • Healthcare in Botswana is improving, but is still lagging behind the EU and South Africa, for example. With the growth of the number of expats in the country, healthcare will probably also improve.
  • The majority of healthcare facilities are public (around 98%), but there are also private healthcare facilities.
  • For more than 95% of residents, there is a health centre within 8 km of their home.
  • The best healthcare can be found in urban areas, especially in Gaborone and Francistown.
  • In general, people in Botswana speak good English, but if you live in a remote area, it is useful to learn some Setswana to explain your medical problems. It is quicker than hand and foot work.
  • Call 997 in case of a medical emergency. Ambulances and air ambulances are available.

How does the public healthcare system work in Botswana?

  • Botswana has a universal healthcare system - free healthcare for all residents. This includes maternity care, HIV/AIDS treatment and vaccinations. Expats usually pay a fee for care of around 70 USD.
  • Doctors are well trained and the quality of care is improving, but challenges remain. For example, there are long waiting times and shortages of money.
  • There are also some medical clinics that exaggerate their expertise and talk about it, but not really. So always check whether your clinic has the right papers and experience.
  • Finding specialist care is difficult.

How does the private healthcare system work in Botswana?

  • Private healthcare in the big cities is much better in quality and more efficient than public healthcare. For this reason, many foreigners choose the private sector.
  • Outside the big cities there are sometimes mobile clinics, but the care is much more limited. Doctors have often completed their training abroad and can provide good care. The facilities are also relatively up-to-date.
  • Gaborone and Francistown have good private hospitals.
  • Private care is quite expensive in Botswana, so it is important to have good insurance.
  • You often have to pay cash, and sometimes you even have to prove that you have health insurance.

How is the general practitioner arranged in Botswana?

  • Certainly in Gaborone and Francistown you can find GPs, although they are not as common as in western countries.

How is the dentist arranged in Botswana?

  • Dental clinics can also be found mainly in the large cities.

How is pregnancy care arranged in Botswana?

  • Most mothers-to-be opt for pregnancy and maternity care in the private sector. The quality of care is good here, fairly comparable to western countries, and it is easy to find English-speaking doctors. In Gaborone in particular, but also in other large cities, there are good doctors who can supervise pregnancies.
  • Public healthcare often has fewer facilities and waiting times are longer.

How safe or unsafe is a trip or stay in Botswana?

What should you pay attention to in terms of safety in Botswana?

  • What should you pay attention to in terms of safety in Botswana?
  • In general, Botswana is a pleasant and safe country to live in, but crime does occur.
  • Risk areas are Gaborone, Francistown and Maun. Petty crime and house and car burglaries occur more often here.
  • Another, fairly unique, danger is wildlife. Always watch out for wild animals, especially if you are driving yourself.
  • It is safer to go to townships with someone who knows the area.

What should you look out for in terms of diseases in Botswana?

  • In parts of Botswana you run the risk of malaria. So protect yourself well against mosquitoes and discuss the risks with a vaccination doctor.
  • The country has one of the highest percentages of HIV/AIDS.
  • Are you going into the bushes? Then you can also get bitten by a tick.
  • Dogs also bite and can have rabies. If you are bitten, wash the wound well and seek medical help immediately.
  • Drink enough and use sunscreen, the last thing you want is to faint, just after you have spotted that big elephant!

What should you pay attention to when it comes to traffic in Botswana?

  • Most people prefer using their own car, or hire a driver, because public transport outside the cities is not really your thing.
  • The roads in cities are usually of good quality, but if you go outside the city, it quickly becomes worse.
  • Don't always expect predictable driving behavior! Drivers sometimes like to drive chaotically, aggressively and recklessly...
  • There are many traffic accidents. The main causes are drunk drivers and people who drive too fast.
  • Avoid driving at night, especially in areas with poor street lighting. Something or someone could jump out onto the road!
  • Keep the car doors and windows locked, especially at night!
  • Public transport is cheap and limited. You can use public buses and “combis” (shared vans).

What work and travel insurance policies are suitable for short and long stays in Botswana?

  • Is the trip to Botswana and your return sufficiently covered? Are you sufficiently covered before, during and after your activities? Which insurance best suits your trip and your activity? Read more about insurances for abroad on JoHoinsurances.org.

What emigration and expat insurance can you take out for Botswana if you are going to live there for a while?

  • To cover the high costs of private healthcare in Botswana, good international health insurance is very important. Also make sure that such insurance covers medical evacuation and repatriation.
  • Read more about insurances for abroad on Expatinsurances.org.

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Activities abroad: home bundle

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,,,accommodations, adventure activities, courses, internships, jobs and volunteer projects

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Activities abroad: home page

Activities abroad: home page

From language courses to gap year abroad, from work experience to volunteering abroad, from paid work to internship abroad, from mountaineering to diving and from backpacking to travel around the world

    What social activities can you do abroad?

    • Opportunities are found in the areas of helping, learning or studying. You can get involved to volunteer in a social project at a school in Africa, Asia or Latin America. You can get involved in nature, in a project with animals or cleaning the sea or beaches. Those who want to learn more can choose for example a language course in Latin America, Spain or South Africa.

    What work related activities can you do abroad?

    • If you want to gain work experience, and/or also earn money, go and work abroad. You can combine backpacking in Australia with temporary work. You can work on campsites in Europe or bush camps in Africa. You can pretty much go all over the world to work in the hospitality industry, hotels and hostels, in the healthcare sector or for example at a diving school.

    What sports activities to do abroad?

    • Have you ever thought of mountain biking, rafting (going down a wild river on a raft or rubber dinghy, climbing or canoeing), survival (which involves building rafts, climbing or canoeing), abseiling (descending a rock face while secured to ropes), zip-lining (whizzing down a cable), canyoning (starting at the top of a river and then climbing, swimming, diving down the bed) or caving (scrambling, wriggling and crawling through caves and crevices)?
    • Maybe you feel more comfortable on a bodyboard (on a half-wave surfboard, you surf the high waves lying down-with flippers), on a hang glider or while paragliding (with a parachute you float down a mountain or dune), hydrospeeding (on a bodyboard with flippers and a wetsuit on you go down a wild river via rapids) or Tiefschneeskiing (racing down through powder snow)?

    Check the pages below for more activities and inspiration and where to go and how to arrange it

      Activities abroad: for gap year, sports, travel and outdoor abroad

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      Organizations: home page
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      African Travels

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