Somalia

Kevlar vest; check. Military entourage; check. Somalia, here I come.

A traveller to Somalia is spoilt for choice in the number of things that can go wrong.

Somalia remains one of the world's most dangerous destinations. Travel is possible in the northern self-proclaimed Republic of Somaliland, with the exception of the Sool, southern and eastern Sanaag regions and Buhoodle districts. These areas are in dispute with neighbouring Puntland which remains a no-go area.

Government troops with the aid of Ethiopian forces have ousted the Union of Islamic Courts militia and gained control of southern Somalia, including Mogadishu. The security situation remains extremely volatile with attacks still taking place in the capital. The potential for conflict remains extremely high and travellers should reconsider any plans to visit Puntland or southern Somalia.