The 'Leve-Leve' Philosophy: In Sao Tome and Principe the motto 'Leve-Leve' (slowly, calmly) is not just a phrase, but the basic social rule. Rushing, stress or impatience are considered out of place. Service in restaurants and transportation operate at a calm pace; Embracing this calm from day one is the secret to fully enjoying the trip.

Transportation, 4x4 Rental and Link between Islands: To explore Santo Tomé on your own, it is essential to rent a 4x4 all-terrain vehicle, since the secondary roads to the south and the access to the rocks and waterfalls are dirt tracks with potholes and mud. To travel between the island of Sao Tome and Principe there are regular domestic flights operated by STP Airways / Africa's Connection (about 35 minutes of flight by small plane) that must be booked well in advance.

Currency and Payments (Santo Tomense Dobra and Cash): The official currency is the Dobra (STN), which has a fixed exchange rate linked to the Euro (1 EUR ≈ 24.50 STN). The use of international credit cards is extremely restricted (they are only accepted in some luxury hotels in the capital and Príncipe). It is mandatory to travel with plenty of cash in Euros (€), which are widely accepted in restaurants, hotels and taxis, or change into Dobras upon arrival.

Health, Vaccines and Malaria Prevention: There is a risk of malaria on both islands throughout the year. It is strongly recommended to go to an international vaccination center to prescribe preventive antimalarial prophylaxis, use mosquito repellent with DEET and wear light long-sleeved clothing at dusk. An international yellow fever vaccination certificate is required if you come from an endemic country, and it is essential to always drink bottled water.