I arrived in Pointe Noire on 2 November 2011. The usual chaos, but my luggage arrived (carried by Ethiopian Air). I had an agent from GETMA as a guide, but my bag was still searched by customs. Once out of the airport, we were accosted by touts con-men and traders, selling anything from a shoeshine, to phone cards. MTN is the only "reliable" mobile phone service in Congo. On my departure, the customs officials were still into their old habits of "checking" wallets for local currency, but they are clearly after US dollars or Euros. The restaurant in the departure lounge is a joke. No smoking allowed anywhere and the only change for $$$ is their CFA. Still light years away from civilization. The town is filthy, roads full of potholes and crawling with militia and police.

Well, I'm pleased to see things are improving (some what) now. Anything is better than it was in 2001. What seemed like a two room terminal with one dim light bulb was definitely a experience to remember. The United Nation Emergency Relief Fund would have gone a long way. I'm reading the locals are still extorting money. I got nailed with a $10,000 CFA fine. Actually, they didn't know what a fiber optic fusion splicer was except it looked expensive. Definitely make sure your agent is going to be there to greet you when you arrive other wise you may get to meet the other welcoming person, his name I later found out, was "911". He's kidding right? Nope. That's his name. Try and keep some humor. Pointe Noire has more characters than a best selling novel.

The history of comments rings true for my memory of the "old days". I am happy to say that the new terminal is a 1000% improvement and there does seem to be less of the casual money collection going on. Using a local agent makes excellent sense, as does the advice to be firm but not aggressive when dealing with local requests for money, etc. If in doubt, give in and carry some small change (dollars or euros if you don't have CFAs). You will need to have a yellow fever certificate but $20 may let you through! The tax on computers seems to have gone away. The airport area is relatively safe as is the city center but always be cautious at night.

As from the early posts, the airport in Pointe Noire has changed. It is now much much better, organised and clean. As of security, Pointe Noire is a relatively safe place. The police/military will always look for a reason to get money out of you... but hey, this happened almost anywhere else!

Just returned from the Congo. Best advise.... USE A LOCAL AGENT! We used Palapino (spelling?). They arranged everything and did a spectacular job! It appears quite safe but the risks are present. Do not use cameras or have any electronics in the open. Be careful where you go - reports of working ex pats being attacked as they walked south on the beach past Hotel Azul. Taxi rides should not cost more than 700-2000 XAF. I roughly calculated that 1000 xaf equals approx 2 US Dollars. Do not argue with the local police or militia but also play a little dumb if confronted. They may attempt to get money from you. They tend to give up if your are polite but firm.