SLOVENIA

Passport and/or Visa Requirements: A valid passport is required. A visa is not required for business or tourist stays if less than 90 days. For information regarding longer stays or other regulations, contact the Embassy of Slovenia at 1525 New Hampshire Avenue, N.W., Washington, DC, 20036; telephone (202) 667-5363, or the Slovenian Consulate in New York City; telephone (212) 370-3006.

Medical Facilities: Adequate medical care is readily available. Doctors and hospitals often expect immediate payment in cash for health services. U.S. medical insurance is not always valid outside the United States, and travelers have found supplemental medical insurance with specific overseas coverage, including provisions for air evacuation, to be useful. Information about English-speaking doctors in Slovenia is available at the U.S. Embassy. Information on specific health matters is available through the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's international travelers hotline at (404) 332-4559 or by visiting CDC's Internet home page at http//www.cdc.gov.

Travel Warnings, Advisories and Areas of Instability: Slovenia has a low crime rate. Travelers should, however, take normal precautions as they are sometimes the targets of pickpockets and purse snatchers. The loss or theft of a U.S. passport abroad should be reported immediately to the local police and the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate. The Department of State's pamphlet "A Safe Trip Abroad" is available from the Superintendent of Documents, U.S. Government Printing Office, Washington, D.C. 20402. It provides useful information on travel and protecting personal security while traveling abroad.

Drug Penalties: U.S. citizens are subject to the laws of the country in which they are traveling. Penalties for possession, use, and trafficking of illegal drugs are strict, and convicted offenders can expect jail sentences and fines.

Road Conditions/Traffic Safety: Since gaining independence, the number of cars in Slovenia has increased, leading to heavy congestion on major routes on weekends and in the city during rush hours. Parking can be difficult and expensive in city centers. City drivers can be aggressive. Roads are in good condition and are safe for travel. Highways connect some major cities and are clearly sign-posted. Travelers should exercise caution on secondary and tertiary roads as they are sometimes narrow. Emergency roadside help and information may be reached by dialing 987.

Registration/Embassy Location: U.S. citizens are encouraged to register at the U.S. Embassy in Ljubljana and obtain updated information on travel and security in Slovenia. The U.S. Embassy is located at Prazakova 4, 1000, Ljubljana, tel. (386) 61-301-427 or 472, fax (386) 61-301-401.