Mileage Run Discussion - [FARE GONE] TK: IST-MGQ (Mogadishu, Somalia) $263/€199 ai; 5750miles; 4,6cpm

Most dangerous mileage run ever?

TK686 ISTMGQ(via KRT) Tue/Thu IST 2215 MGQ 0700
TK687 MGQIST(via KRT) Wed/Fri MGQ 0800 IST 1505

Flights started with a promotion.

€3+Tax = €199 ai / $263
FARE BASIS : GXPC1M1 / G Class
Offer Valid till 06 Apr 2012

5750miles / 4,6cpm

Sample dates: 03/20 - 03/21

love it!

Wow. I think even with some of our bravest FTers will skip on this one. If someone does go TR please.

What's TK's policy on firearms? Does the Kalashnikov travel with you in the cabin or do you pick it up on arrival?

Free stopovers?

Sounds good to me, sign me up. :)

If we aren't able to get our Iranian visa we were thinking of going to Somalia/Yemen instead.

Sounds good to me, sign me up. :)

If we aren't able to get our Iranian visa we were thinking of going to Somalia/Yemen instead.

I've read your amazing TRs and I know that you are trying to visit every country but in all seriousness would you actually go to Mogadishu specifically? There are safer ways to visit Somalia.

I've read your amazing TRs and I know that you are trying to visit every country but in all seriousness would you actually go to Mogadishu specifically? There are safer ways to visit Somalia.

So the AK-47 is a no-go? ;)

How about just a handgun?

I've read your amazing TRs and I know that you are trying to visit every country but in all seriousness would you actually go to Mogadishu specifically? There are safer ways to visit Somalia.

I'd probably just do a touch-and-go.. if it were possible. I had gotten a Somaliland visa several years ago in Ethiopia but then wasn't able to rearrange our flights to make the trip to Hargeisa.

Mogadishu is one of the VERY FEW travel opportunities I would reject outright. I'd class it with... Baghdad, Kandahar, FATA (Pakistan) levels of silliness.

On the other hand, Somaliland is supposed to be quite nice ... but the way in is via Addis or Djibouti.

"WARNING: Mogadishu is regarded as the most lawless and dangerous city on Earth and is currently experiencing a major food and refugee crisis. It is highly dangerous for leisure or tourism."

http://wikitravel.org/en/Mogadishu#b

hmmmm.... I am in IST next week, when do flights start? :D

btw, shhhh... dont tell my mother

Didn't mean that to be a specific criticism of Hauteboy...

Most dangerous mileage run ever?

TK686 ISTMGQ(via KRT) Tue/Thu IST 2215 MGQ 0700
TK687 MGQIST(via KRT) Wed/Fri MGQ 0800 IST 1505

Flights started with a promotion.

€3+Tax = €199 ai / $263
FARE BASIS : GXPC1M1 / G Class
Offer Valid till 06 Apr 2011

5750miles / 4,6cpm

Sample dates: 03/20 - 03/21
It's valid until 2011?

It's valid until 2011?

yes, but thats the time machine fare.

yes, but thats the time machine fare.

BTW YQ is over 90% of the fare.
If you could dump this, then.....

BTW YQ is over 90% of the fare.
If you could dump this, then.....

...You'd have more money for ransom! :D

(I'll be here all week, folks!)

Spring break 2012 Mogadishu!

Spring break 2012 Mogadishu!

Loads of beach-front property! Literally there for the taking...

"WARNING: Mogadishu is regarded as the most lawless and dangerous city on Earth and is currently experiencing a major food and refugee crisis. It is highly dangerous for leisure or tourism."

http://wikitravel.org/en/Mogadishu#b

Now, now . . . let's be fair: it's been almost a year-and-a-half since the last suicide attack on the Mogadishu International Airport, which killed at least nine people. And, with any luck, the security efforts that coincided with TK's inaugural flight, "with the main roads in neighborhoods around the airport blocked by gangs of heavily armed policemen (http://www.monitor.co.ug/News/National/-/688334/1361150/-/axer9wz/-/)," will continue as a regular occurrence.

Of course, if you want to leave the relative "safety" and "serenity" of the airport, Wikitravel sounds ominous:

The safest way through Mogadishu is escorted by Ethiopian and official Somalian troops, or African Union peacekeeping forces; however, uniformed soldiers are a target for the militias and may come under attack. Independent travel is suicidal. Unpredictable armed conflicts among rival militias are prevalent in and around Mogadishu and can flare up with little or no warning. Lines of control in Mogadishu are unclear and frequently shift, making movement within the city extremely hazardous. When being escorted by armed security, it is best to be in an armored car. Infantry are highly likely to get engaged in street battles, and an armored vehicle can provide far better protection against most threats. A bullet proof vest is a must-have in Mogadishu.

[. . .]

Some reports say that to get through intersections near markets crowded with people, those wealthy enough to have vehicles fire machine guns into the air to clear a path. Safe travel through Mogadishu is only possible by convoy with heavily armed guides and guards, which actually can be hired quite easily. Even with guards, the likelihood of being injured, kidnapped, and/or killed is still very high, including potentially by said hirable guards.

I'm in for three of these; hey, miles are miles! I contacted Hertz, and they said an armored car may be available on the "Gold Choice" aisle. Not so sure where I'll pick up the machine gun to make it quickly through the intersections, however. As for the bulletproof vest? Those are for wussies. ;)

...You'd have more money for ransom! :D

(I'll be here all week, folks!)

:D:D:D^

You don't need a gun, you can hire militias right outside the airport. Not kidding.

I saw this one on the TK website with the promo. I was pretty surprised actually that they actually see a benefit of flying there. I know there are several places in the world that others can more safely go that American's can not, but I was under the impression that Mogadishu was pretty much dangerous for anyone.

It is quite interesting to see these types of mileage runs posted to the oddball cities around the world. Wish I was still US based to take advantage of some of the other ones I've seen here.

Will TK award your return trip miles posthumously? Or for your casket?

From wiki travel:

"Some reports say that to get through intersections near markets crowded with people, those wealthy enough to have vehicles fire machine guns into the air to clear a path."

From wiki travel:

"Some reports say that to get through intersections near markets crowded with people, those wealthy enough to have vehicles fire machine guns into the air to clear a path."

What does Hertz charge for that feature?

There are safer ways to visit Somalia.

Yes, you can watch Black Hawk Down for example.. :D

BTW YQ is over 90% of the fare.
If you could dump this, then.....

It's even cheaper if you book it one-way!! You never know.. :rolleyes:

So which brave soul is going to go to Somalia and help us capture some pictures?

So which brave soul is going to go to Somalia and help us capture some pictures?

Did you say pictures or pirates?

Mogadishu is one of the VERY FEW travel opportunities I would reject outright. I'd class it with... Baghdad, Kandahar, FATA (Pakistan) levels of silliness.

On the other hand, Somaliland is supposed to be quite nice ... but the way in is via Addis or Djibouti.

"WARNING: Mogadishu is regarded as the most lawless and dangerous city on Earth and is currently experiencing a major food and refugee crisis. It is highly dangerous for leisure or tourism."

http://wikitravel.org/en/Mogadishu#b

Mogadishu is far more problematic for non-VFR traffic than Baghdad, Kandahar or Pakistan's FATA.

So which brave soul is going to go to Somalia and help us capture some pictures?

Ethnic Somalis in the US, Europe and the Middle East who are members of FT do sometimes have family members to visit there.

Diplomats don't even stay in Somalia. They live in Kenya.

Great for families. Disney cruises have only one pirate night a week. Every night is pirate night in MGQ.

Just realized it only books into G. No miles on US. Rats.

The situtaiton is worse than I thought. :eek:

Seems a bit odd to me that if the situation is that dangerous, TK would begin flights there.

If you are curious where to stay: http://www.somaliareport.com/index.php/post/2788/Where_To_Stay_In_A_Warzone_

The Muna hotel was near a carbombing last month.
Cost: $10 a night
Pros: Right in the center of the action
Cons: Right in the center of the action

No hotel points though...

I hope that no one pirates our jokes.

Will the airline credit you if for some reason you have to skip the return segment?

Feh. Why go to Mogadishu when I can fly to Detroit in about an hour.

This would be an epic MR...if I was a Navy Seal or Green Beret :cool:

I wonder what is the best seat on the plane? Is it better to sit in Armed or Unarmed?

Another thought: Anyone know of a good Sushi Joint there?

Looks like the equipment is only on the ground for an hour.

That's a tight turn. I would think you'd want to do the Tuesday night outbound. At least that way if you get held up in customs it's only two days until the next flight out. For the folks landing on Friday morning, that's going to be crazy watching the wheels leave the tarmac an hour later. Five long days until the next flight.

Great for families. Disney cruises have only one pirate night a week. Every night is pirate night in MGQ.

Just realized it only books into G. No miles on US. Rats.

No miles on US means this is a no go for me. That is the only reason. Totally the only reason. Not scared at all, nope.

I had a professor in college who was a bit of a Somalia expect (has done work with the State Dept, NGOs, is the go to guy for several news networks). He was there during the worst of it in '93 and relayed to us in class one day the story of the day, while living in the U.N. compound he was tired, didn't want to wake up and shower, but did anyway...and came back to find a mortar round had exploded in his bed.

Somalia hasn't been high on my list of places to travel since that class. But, any idea what the visa requirements are?

I could care less about the CPM. I am nominating this for the greatest MR ever. Now, if it were to HGA (Hargeisa, Somaliland), I would definitely do it.

Chris

A lit bit of advice -- Get Trip interruption Insurance. Make sure your Medical Insurance is paid up and consider making pre need arrangements if you catch my drift.

Or just buy the ticket, say what the heck and then give it to someone you really dont like....

Another thought: Anyone know of a good Sushi Joint there?

Sure. Head inland and north. When you pass the Babile Elephant Sanctuary on the left you will know you are getting close. Enter Djibouti and head here: http://www.tripadvisor.com/Restaurant_Review-g293787-d1632887-Reviews-Melting_Pot-Djibouti.html

Sure. Head inland and north. When you pass the Babile Elephant Sanctuary on the left you will know you are getting close. Enter Djibuti and head here: http://www.tripadvisor.com/Restaurant_Review-g293787-d1632887-Reviews-Melting_Pot-Djibouti.html
Wow, thats what I love about FlyerTalk, ask a question and get an quick, informed answer. I just added a stop at the "Melting Pot" to my to do list!
Thanks lkar!!!!!!

Is it worth it to make a stop at the Babile Elephant Sanctuary as long as I'm going to be in the neighborhood anyway?

Be sure to check out all two things to do as rated on TA:

http://www.tripadvisor.com/Attractions-g294440-Activities-Mogadishu.html

I'd say the hotel options must be top-notch. I mean, not a single "DO NOT Stay Here!!!" or "BEWARE!!!" title in any of the reviews! Can Maui or Balii top that? Didn't think so!

http://www.tripadvisor.com/Hotels-g294440-Mogadishu-Hotels.html

I'm surprised no one had commented that the excursion would be so much more enjoyable as a red-eye. ;)

Be sure to check out all two things to do as rated on TA:

http://www.tripadvisor.com/Attractions-g294440-Activities-Mogadishu.html

I'd say the hotel options must be top-notch. I mean, not a single "DO NOT Stay Here!!!" or "BEWARE!!!" title in any of the reviews! Can Maui or Balii top that? Didn't think so!

http://www.tripadvisor.com/Hotels-g294440-Mogadishu-Hotels.html

The place is just sounding better and better.... I love the description of the market "mogadishu have defferent markets which deals with defferent goods or items, but there is a wonderfull market which they call BAKAARO MARKET bakaaro is biggest market in east africa if you visit bakaaro market first you will have a new freinds with defferent ages dont worry about language there is volantarry translaters

YOU will never miss what ever you want in bakaaro market but if you hear big gun or canon bullet sound dont worry, because there is guns and amminations forsale. in bakaaro market if someone tel you that you can be somalian within one hour beleive him/her because there is pasport and id for sale "

They say that now is actually the best time to visit since the rainy season is about to start.

http://www.puretravel.com/Guide/Africa/Eastern_Africa/Somalia

Is it worth it to make a stop at the Babile Elephant Sanctuary as long as I'm going to be in the neighborhood anyway?

How hungry will you be? Will you ever return to Ethiopa? Do you like elephants? What time are your Melting Pot reservations? So many questions. Travel is a very personal thing. Only you can answer.

I love it what an amazing thread!

How hungry will you be? Will you ever return to Ethiopa? Do you like elephants? What time are your Melting Pot reservations? So many questions. Travel is a very personal thing. Only you can answer.
Wow so many questions..... I did see dumbo as a kid so I guess i like elephants.... I think I'm going to stay at a Holiday Inn Express tonight so I'll better be able to answer your questions in the morning.....

Might the unmanned drone mistake my Mobal handset for a remote detonator?

Might the unmanned drone mistake my Mobal handset for a remote detonator?

I wouldn't worry about it at all -- the locals will probably get you well before the drones have target lock.

No miles on US means this is a no go for me. That is the only reason. Totally the only reason. Not scared at all, nope.

I had a professor in college who was a bit of a Somalia expect (has done work with the State Dept, NGOs, is the go to guy for several news networks). He was there during the worst of it in '93 and relayed to us in class one day the story of the day, while living in the U.N. compound he was tired, didn't want to wake up and shower, but did anyway...and came back to find a mortar round had exploded in his bed.

Somalia hasn't been high on my list of places to travel since that class. But, any idea what the visa requirements are?

LOL Visa requirements? There is no government.

But seriously from:
http://travel.state.gov/travel/cis_pa_tw/cis/cis_1023.html


ENTRY / EXIT REQUIREMENTS FOR U.S. CITIZENS: A passport is required for travel to Somaliland and Puntland. Both regions require a visa and issue their own at their respective ports of entry. For travel to other parts of Somalia, including Mogadishu, a passport and visa are required. Visas are issued at certain Somali embassies, including in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, and Nairobi, Kenya. Air and seaports are under the control of local authorities that make varying determinations of what is required of travelers who attempt to use these ports of entry.

Travelers may obtain the latest information on visas as well as any additional details regarding entry requirements from the Permanent Representative of the Somali Republic to the United Nations, telephone (212) 688-9410/5046; fax (212) 759-0651; email somalia@un.int, located at 425 East 61st Street, Suite 702, New York, NY 10021. Persons outside the United States may attempt to contact the nearest Somali embassy or consulate. All such establishments, where they exist, are affiliated with the TFG, whose authority is not established throughout all of Somalia.

LOL Visa requirements? There is no government.


Visa on arrival? No problem. Visa in city? No problem. Exit visa? Easy.

Just make sure you bring a lot of visa. You'll need it.

I wonder if they will make you clear security there.

Does MGQ have a *A lounge to wait in? :D

Visa on arrival? No problem. Visa in city? No problem. Exit visa? Easy.

Just make sure you bring a lot of visa. You'll need it.

lol you're on a roll. Btw I think we're all missing the most important question, can we do a free stopover in KRT?

Does MGQ have a *A lounge to wait in? :D

It's a lounge where you don't have to show your card to get in, but you have to pay (a lot!) to get out. :D

It's a lounge where you don't have to show your card to get in, but you have to pay (a lot!) to get out. :D

And this is a real 'enhancement' from the MLL.

This one is truly unbeatable in terms of insanity. I love how wikitravel describes independent travel to Mogadishu as "suicidal." And hiring your own mercenary force isn't much better:

Safe travel through Mogadishu is only possible by convoy with heavily armed guides and guards, which actually can be hired quite easily. Even with guards, the likelihood of being injured, kidnapped, and/or killed is still very high, including potentially by said hirable guards.

Oh, well. I guess I won't be able to make it to their local market to shop for anti-aircraft guns. I'll have to settle for a weekend visit to my local Costco.

This one is truly unbeatable in terms of insanity. I love how wikitravel describes independent travel to Mogadishu as "suicidal." And hiring your own mercenary force isn't much better:

Safe travel through Mogadishu is only possible by convoy with heavily armed guides and guards, which actually can be hired quite easily. Even with guards, the likelihood of being injured, kidnapped, and/or killed is still very high, including potentially by said hirable guards.

Oh, well. I guess I won't be able to make it to their local market to shop for anti-aircraft guns. I'll have to settle for a weekend visit to my local Costco.
All of which begs the Question -- Why is TK flying there? They obviously aren't going to be making much $ at 4.3cpm to justify the apparent risk. They may, in fact, lose money if the have to patch bullet holes in their aircraft with any regularity.

Most dangerous mileage run ever?

Nah, I think this was: http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/mileage-run-discussion/1233590-fare-gone-aa-gulf-houston-lahore-lhe-rt-497-i.html

Nah, I think this was: http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/mileage-run-discussion/1233590-fare-gone-aa-gulf-houston-lahore-lhe-rt-497-i.html

Not even close.

Still no complaints that CPM is too high for a MR :rolleyes:;):eek:???

I think TK is a pretty cool airline. eh flies to Mogadishu and doesnt afraid of anything.

All of which begs the Question -- Why is TK flying there? They obviously aren't going to be making much $ at 4.3cpm to justify the apparent risk. They may, in fact, lose money if the have to patch bullet holes in their aircraft with any regularity.
maybe all the new money from the pirating is burning a hole in peoples' pockets?
Back in college, I pondered whether we could invest our unspent board money (~$200) in some real estate in mogadishu... still haven't figured that one out yet :p

Nah, I think this was: http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/mileage-run-discussion/1233590-fare-gone-aa-gulf-houston-lahore-lhe-rt-497-i.html

Nah.. that wasn't so bad...
http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/trip-reports/1248180-mistake-fare-kabul-aa-gf-pk-iah-dfw-lhr-bah-lhe-isb-kbl-bah-lhr-ord-iah-y.html

Depart Thu, Mar 29 KBL to MGQ – 2 stops 20h 30m

This flight leaves on Thursday and arrives on Friday.
Turkish Airlines – Flight 707 5h 45m
Take-off Thu 12:00p KBL Kabul, Afghanistan
Landing Thu 4:15p IST Istanbul, Turkey
Coach | Airbus A320-100/200 (Narrow-body Jet) | 5h 45m
Connection IST Istanbul, Turkey
7h 00m
Turkish Airlines – Flight 686 4h 05m
Take-off Thu 11:15p IST Istanbul, Turkey
Landing Fri 3:20a KRT Khartoum, Sudan
Coach | Boeing 737-800 (Narrow-body Jet) | 4h 05m
Connection KRT Khartoum, Sudan
0h 50m
Turkish Airlines – Flight 686 2h 50m
Take-off Fri 4:10a KRT Khartoum, Sudan
Landing Fri 7:00a MGQ Muqdisho, Somalia
Coach | Boeing 737-800 (Narrow-body Jet) | 2h 50m

*
economy – $1061


Turkish Airlines - we go to all the places you want to be!

Depart Thu, Mar 29 KBL to MGQ – 2 stops 20h 30m

This flight leaves on Thursday and arrives on Friday.
Turkish Airlines – Flight 707 5h 45m
Take-off Thu 12:00p KBL Kabul, Afghanistan
Landing Thu 4:15p IST Istanbul, Turkey
Coach | Airbus A320-100/200 (Narrow-body Jet) | 5h 45m
Connection IST Istanbul, Turkey
7h 00m
Turkish Airlines – Flight 686 4h 05m
Take-off Thu 11:15p IST Istanbul, Turkey
Landing Fri 3:20a KRT Khartoum, Sudan
Coach | Boeing 737-800 (Narrow-body Jet) | 4h 05m
Connection KRT Khartoum, Sudan
0h 50m
Turkish Airlines – Flight 686 2h 50m
Take-off Fri 4:10a KRT Khartoum, Sudan
Landing Fri 7:00a MGQ Muqdisho, Somalia
Coach | Boeing 737-800 (Narrow-body Jet) | 2h 50m

*
economy – $1061


Turkish Airlines - we go to all the places you want to be!

You're really going to need all the *A baggage allowance you can get for that itinerary. Guns and ammo are heavy.

Be sure to pay attention to customs requirement, so you don't exceed your duty-free allowance upon arrival. Remember, it's no more than one rocket-propelled grenade, three automatic weapons, and five machetes, not to exceed 24 inches each.

The TK-companion fare of 1 Lira is a pretty good deal, even though it earns no miles. Bring your priest, so last rites can be administered on the spot when your private security guard grows weary of you on the drive in from the airport and decides to use you as target practice.

Better yet, wait for TK's annual Valentines fare sales, so you can bring your significant other for a proper holiday. Yeah, she might prefer the Maldives, but Mogadishu is not too shabby an alternative.

This thread is a classic, but I can't believe no one has yet to hope for a AA/DL/UA match.

Apparently flights are already started.

http://travel.usatoday.com/flights/post/2012/03/turkish-airlines-mogadishu-somalia/642332/1

Feh. Why go to Mogadishu when I can fly to Detroit in about an hour.

Oh snap! :D

All of which begs the Question -- Why is TK flying there? They obviously aren't going to be making much $ at 4.3cpm to justify the apparent risk. They may, in fact, lose money if the have to patch bullet holes in their aircraft with any regularity.

Why is TK flying there? The government told them to. The Turkish government owns somewhere around 1/2 of TK, and they have a pretty significant say in how the airline is run.

Somalia has a lot of resources available. Turkey wants those resources. That simple.

A similar question would be "Why does anyone fly to LOS?" - simple answer for that too. Oil.

...
Somalia has a lot of resources available.

I agree. Somalia has great economic promise.

In terms of the service sector, the country's shipping lines have an unrivalled ability to obtain goods and other resources (including financial resources) to import into the country at low cost...

Likewise, the building and construction sector has boundless scope for expansion.

I cannot believe we're 5 pages into this thread and no one has written that Americans think that no place is safe and that OF COURSE it's safe to travel there because Australians go all the time.

Also, the only reason I'm not going is because I won't do an overnight on a narrowbody in coach. Now, if they would upgrade this to the A330...

The last I heard, the security situation in Somalia was improving, so presumably TK see a (positive) end in sight.

With the exchange rates, I wonder if it'll make a suitable starting point for a RTW?

Why is TK flying there? The government told them to. The Turkish government owns somewhere around 1/2 of TK, and they have a pretty significant say in how the airline is run.

Somalia has a lot of resources available. Turkey wants those resources. That simple.

A similar question would be "Why does anyone fly to LOS?" - simple answer for that too. Oil.

There's obviously a political component of that, but is it actually safe enough to fly a commercial aircraft into Mogadishu? And if it's just window dressing, why is TK offering a promotional fare - and who are they hoping to attract? I assume the only people who want to go there are folks who MUST go. These folks will be happy to have the service, but they're probably not going to be motivated to travel by a sale price.

All of which begs the Question -- Why is TK flying there?

Some answers could be here.

http://www.guardian.co.uk/world/2012/mar/06/turkish-airlines-flights-somalia-mogadishu

And I have to stay that there are really good jokes here on this thread. I love reading them! :D

There's obviously a political component of that, but is it actually safe enough to fly a commercial aircraft into Mogadishu? And if it's just window dressing, why is TK offering a promotional fare - and who are they hoping to attract? I assume the only people who want to go there are folks who MUST go. These folks will be happy to have the service, but they're probably not going to be motivated to travel by a sale price.

I disagree. There is a large Somali diaspora abroad. That means that if the price is right, TK can tap a reasonably large VFR market.

I disagree. There is a large Somali diaspora abroad. That means that if the price is right, TK can tap a reasonably large VFR market.

I know quite a few in YVR.

I know quite a few in YVR.

And they're prepared to head back right now?

I mean, they left Somalia for a reason, right? I don't think their return will be motivated by a promotional fare.

I mean, they left Somalia for a reason, right? I don't think their return will be motivated by a promotional fare.

This promotional fare is ex-IST only and valid for a month.

And wouldn't you want to return to your country to visit your sick mother or to attend your father's funeral?

And they're prepared to head back right now?

I mean, they left Somalia for a reason, right? I don't think their return will be motivated by a promotional fare.

They were legitimate refugees that settled in Canada 4 yrs ago.
DL does have the good fare to IST right now.
Am in HKG now (I stayed up all night so I could sleep in the cabanas, stay awake on CX888, and crash on YVR time)

And wouldn't you want to return to your country to visit your sick mother or to attend your father's funeral?

The promotion aside...

It just got a whole lot easier to get into Somalia for families... for businesses.

You don't need a gun, you can hire militias right outside the airport. Not kidding.

In that case, I'll volunteer to host the first MGQ-do!

Lest you think I'm kidding, my trip to Somaliland (http://www.jasonaroundtheworld.com/category/countries/somalia)a couple months ago was lovely...

Besides, I've been informed you can't "count" Somaliland as going to Somalia (and technically, it does violate my rules too, because it has its own currency, border patrols, government instutitions, etc) so why now! :D

I wonder if they will make you clear security there.

Not positive, but I flew the HGA-JIB segment of MGQ-HGA-JIB in January, and they made all transit pax in HGA get off and re-clear security...I got the feeling there hadn't been much in MGQ...

I would be open to this if I was in IST, and can do an immediate turn around. I will say if there is anyone that does and brings pictures, I will buy them a drink if they are in Chicago

Someone pointed to "FARE GONE) AA/GULF : HOUSTON-LAHORE (LHE) Rt. from $497 a.i." as a more dangerous run.

This is fallacious. Western Pakistan is no paradise; a fair chunk of it is no-go; but Islamabad and Lahore are relatively secure, and life goes on. Yes, westerners have gotten kidnapped in Lahore, and there is sporadic violence, but compared to the rest of the country, it is lovely... and not in the same league as Mogadishu... we're talking high school baseball v. major leagues. And it has attractions and cultural interest to rival anything in India (of which it was once a part).

In fact, I did this run - Lahore plus India. It was fabulous; I never felt insecure.

Depart Thu, Mar 29 KBL to MGQ – 2 stops 20h 30m

This flight leaves on Thursday and arrives on Friday.
Turkish Airlines – Flight 707 5h 45m
Take-off Thu 12:00p KBL Kabul, Afghanistan
Landing Thu 4:15p IST Istanbul, Turkey
Coach | Airbus A320-100/200 (Narrow-body Jet) | 5h 45m
Connection IST Istanbul, Turkey
7h 00m
Turkish Airlines – Flight 686 4h 05m
Take-off Thu 11:15p IST Istanbul, Turkey
Landing Fri 3:20a KRT Khartoum, Sudan
Coach | Boeing 737-800 (Narrow-body Jet) | 4h 05m
Connection KRT Khartoum, Sudan
0h 50m
Turkish Airlines – Flight 686 2h 50m
Take-off Fri 4:10a KRT Khartoum, Sudan
Landing Fri 7:00a MGQ Muqdisho, Somalia
Coach | Boeing 737-800 (Narrow-body Jet) | 2h 50m

*
economy – $1061


Turkish Airlines - we go to all the places you want to be! Dude, spend some time in Khartoum. I've been there a couple of times -- it's a very pleasant city, and there are few places I've felt safer. nothing like the border provinces where the troubles are.

There are lots of Somalis in MSP. Most of the catering folks and cab drivers, it seems. Might be a good option for them.

I'm sure on the other side of the world, they are seeing IST - LAX and going "wow...anyone wanna go the most dangerous MR?" ......Im sure Mogadishu has its good and bad....like anywhere else in the world...

] it's a very pleasant city, and there are few places I've felt safer.

Oh come on.

Dude, spend some time in Khartoum. I've been there a couple of times -- it's a very pleasant city, and there are few places I've felt safer. nothing like the border provinces where the troubles are.



Certainly better than KBL or MCQ, but given the State Department warnings, I still think I'll give it a pass right now. ;)

Demonstrations occur periodically, mostly in Khartoum. You should keep a low profile, vary your time and routes of travel, exercise care while driving, and ensure that your passport and Sudanese visa are always valid and up to date.

We recommend that all U.S. citizens visiting or residing in Sudan maintain safe haven plans, as well as plans to evacuate the country on short notice should the situation warrant.

http://travel.state.gov/travel/cis_pa_tw/tw/tw_5642.html

It was more the juxtaposition of all three of these pleasant places on one PNR that made me chuckle.

Oh come on.

Haha, I got a chuckle out of that also.

I'm all for correcting stereotypes, but people have a penchant for hyperbole when doing do.

Mogadishu is one of the VERY FEW travel opportunities I would reject outright. I'd class it with... Baghdad, Kandahar, FATA (Pakistan) levels of silliness.

On the other hand, Somaliland is supposed to be quite nice ... but the way in is via Addis or Djibouti.

"WARNING: Mogadishu is regarded as the most lawless and dangerous city on Earth and is currently experiencing a major food and refugee crisis. It is highly dangerous for leisure or tourism."

http://wikitravel.org/en/Mogadishu#b


I cannot find any chain hotel there? No Hilton, no Starwood, no Hyatt... That is suspect :rolleyes:

Oh come on.

I know people who have been safe walking around part of Khartoum at night but had guns pulled on them in the Georgetown area of DC not only by criminals but also by cops, if different, at night.

I know people who have been safe walking around part of Khartoum at night but had guns pulled on them in the Georgetown area of DC not only by criminals but also by cops, if different, at night.

Exactly. I'm actually not kidding at all about Khartoum.

My employer gives me this ranting paranoid security briefing every time I go to Paris; For KRT pretty much said "do wherever you want (except take photos), no one ever has problems here."

YMMV.

This begs the question...is there any place in the world now that would otherwise be a logical destination for a global-alliance carrier but is not due to instability/unrest/political barriers, etc. It seems like MGQ was one of the last.

Kabul? Check
Baghdad? Check
Tehran? Check
Pyongyang? Check (albeit barely)
Havana? Check
Tripoli? Check
Damascus? Check (for now, at least)
Mogadishu? Check

Obviously not every national capital and/or country is served by a global-alliance carrier, but in virtually every case it's because the route would not be economically feasible, not because politics/war/unrest etc. is keeping them at bay.

EMy employer gives me this ranting paranoid security briefing every time I go to Paris; For KRT pretty much said "do wherever you want (except take photos), no one ever has problems here."

We must have different employers. I've never been to KRT, but imagine as long as you're smart it's relatively safe. That said, we have a million restrictions when there for work when and where we can go. DC? Nope, if we wanna go to Barry Farms it's all good.

I know people who have been safe walking around part of Khartoum at night but had guns pulled on them in the Georgetown area of DC not only by criminals but also by cops, if different, at night.

I don't doubt it. But "there are few places I've felt safer"? That can't be true, IMHO.

(And I agree completely about DC safety.)

Actually the AK47 is the welcome gift when you arrive @ mogadishu

Actually the AK47 is the welcome gift when you arrive @ mogadishu

And your welcome gift to FT from me is this post.
I might need to see if I trust you with an AK47 first.
I like the M16 better.

I don't doubt it. But "there are few places I've felt safer"? That can't be true, IMHO.

(And I agree completely about DC safety.)

+1 OP must not have been to Tokyo, just for one example

+1 OP must not have been to Tokyo, just for one example

Or HKG, or LHR.

+1 OP must not have been to Tokyo, just for one example

I said "few." Tokyo be one.

.....

I wonder if MGQ will be added to the route maps on in flight magazines as a *A partner/ code share city. :D

I wonder if MGQ will be added to the route maps on in flight magazines as a *A partner/ code share city. :D

Maybe this means AC will start fits to IST?

Wonder if this route is eligible for awards. RJ had some restrictions on their flights to Iraq IIRC.

This is a really funny thread.

Wonder if this route is eligible for awards. RJ had some restrictions on their flights to Iraq IIRC.

This is a really funny thread.

Has anyone bought it?
If they did, I want to know.
I know the thread is funny. That's why I post on it.

Will TK award your return trip miles posthumously? Or for your casket?

The coffin will be upgraded to J.


:D

The practice around MGQ is to bury the dead before sunset of the day of death, without a coffin on land or in sea if the death is on the waters and returning to land in time for a pre-dusk burial is not expected. I suspect more corpses will be transported on the flights to MGQ than on flights from MGQ.

Wonder if this route is eligible for awards.


It is.

Using UA miles the taxes are just $15 for the IST-MGQ one-way trip on TK 686 even in the premium cabin. 45k UA miles. Even get a 45 minute KRT groundstop in for free.

How difficult would it be to explain to CBSA that you went to MGQ for MR?

How difficult would it be to explain to CBSA that you went to MGQ for MR?

It depends. If you are in Depends visiting someone who would be in Depends if they hadn't just died of natural causes, perhaps easy. Might still get an Ag type examination, but a lot of people do have legitimate reasons for travel to/from there.

In that case, I'll volunteer to host the first MGQ-do!

Lest you think I'm kidding, my trip to Somaliland (http://www.jasonaroundtheworld.com/category/countries/somalia)a couple months ago was lovely...

Besides, I've been informed you can't "count" Somaliland as going to Somalia (and technically, it does violate my rules too, because it has its own currency, border patrols, government instutitions, etc) so why now! :D

Yes, a MGQ-DO would fit nicely !

:D

Somalia Gets a Tourist, Mogadishu Officials Are Baffled
Link Below:

Read more: http://newsfeed.time.com/2010/12/13/somalia-gets-a-tourist-mogadishu-officials-are-baffled/#ixzz1p3uvCOxE



http://newsfeed.time.com/2010/12/13/somalia-gets-a-tourist-mogadishu-officials-are-baffled/

Somalia Gets a Tourist, Mogadishu Officials Are Baffled
Link Below:

Read more: http://newsfeed.time.com/2010/12/13/somalia-gets-a-tourist-mogadishu-officials-are-baffled/#ixzz1p3uvCOxE



http://newsfeed.time.com/2010/12/13/somalia-gets-a-tourist-mogadishu-officials-are-baffled/
This was from 2 years ago.

This was from 2 years ago.

... and Somalia was a mess back then too.

Some may even argue that MGQ was worse two years ago than it is even today -- not that it really changes much when it is still is one of the world's most challenged urban environments in more than one way.

At least now there is an option to fly to/from MGQ in a way that earns miles or can use miles in the loyalty program of a major alliance airline. I anticipate there will be Americans and EU nationals on some of the TK 686 flights as there are hundreds of thousands of ethnic Somalis that have left Somalia to settle in OECD and GCC countries but still have family and/or property ties in Somalia which they may care to try to maintain.

Somalia Gets a Tourist, Mogadishu Officials Are Baffled

I thought you were posting a link to The Onion haha

Depart Thu, Mar 29 KBL to MGQ – 2 stops 20h 30m

This flight leaves on Thursday and arrives on Friday.
Turkish Airlines – Flight 707 5h 45m
Take-off Thu 12:00p KBL Kabul, Afghanistan
Landing Thu 4:15p IST Istanbul, Turkey
Coach | Airbus A320-100/200 (Narrow-body Jet) | 5h 45m
Connection IST Istanbul, Turkey
7h 00m
Turkish Airlines – Flight 686 4h 05m
Take-off Thu 11:15p IST Istanbul, Turkey
Landing Fri 3:20a KRT Khartoum, Sudan
Coach | Boeing 737-800 (Narrow-body Jet) | 4h 05m
Connection KRT Khartoum, Sudan
0h 50m
Turkish Airlines – Flight 686 2h 50m
Take-off Fri 4:10a KRT Khartoum, Sudan
Landing Fri 7:00a MGQ Muqdisho, Somalia
Coach | Boeing 737-800 (Narrow-body Jet) | 2h 50m

*
economy – $1061


Turkish Airlines - we go to all the places you want to be!

In soccer, scoring three goals is a "hat trick" - this is even better...

:cool:

This begs the question...is there any place in the world now that would otherwise be a logical destination for a global-alliance carrier but is not due to instability/unrest/political barriers, etc. It seems like MGQ was one of the last.

Havana? Check


I don't get Havana on your list? It's perfectly stable, there are no bigger unrest than say, downtown London (actually, if we take last year, much much less :p ) and there are no political barriers unless you count the blockade from that one single country who failed to invade and occupy the island several decades ago. Havana is a great city, you can walk around as freely (or even more) than in any other western city, there is zero criminality, it does have some nice accomodation (not much big hotels, but a lot of private accomodation with a great value for money) and while I don't fancy cuban food too much, there is no problem in getting your tummy filled. If there would be an error fare to Cuba/HAV any time, I would be the first to book it, while there are plenty of countries NOT on your list I wouldn't really dare to go unprepared.

I'd have to fly that one in first class ;)

I'd have to fly that one in first class ;)

It's a 2 cabin 738. Nice try.
Welcome to FT!

I don't get Havana on your list? It's perfectly stable, there are no bigger unrest than say, downtown London (actually, if we take last year, much much less :p ) and there are no political barriers unless you count the blockade from that one single country who failed to invade and occupy the island several decades ago. Havana is a great city, you can walk around as freely (or even more) than in any other western city, there is zero criminality, it does have some nice accomodation (not much big hotels, but a lot of private accomodation with a great value for money) and while I don't fancy cuban food too much, there is no problem in getting your tummy filled. If there would be an error fare to Cuba/HAV any time, I would be the first to book it, while there are plenty of countries NOT on your list I wouldn't really dare to go unprepared.

But...but...but...what about COMM-YOU-NIZZZMMM??? :rolleyes:

Agreed, Havana is a beautiful and safe city.

But...but...but...what about COMM-YOU-NIZZZMMM??? :rolleyes:

Agreed, Havana is a beautiful and safe city.

+1
I went there in 2007 and I felt very safe, and I also brought back some Havana Club.

Oh boy. Thanks to FT TalkMail bring this to my attention... This thread makes my day!

Looks like MGQ flights are wide open (guess why:D), but KBL is already packed:


01APR SUN IST/Z‡3 KBL/‡1.5
*
1TK 706 C0 D0 J0 I0 R0*ISTKBL 345A 1000A 320 M 0 XWJ DCA /E
Y1 B0 M0 K0 H0 S0 E0 Q0 T0

29MAR THU IST/Z‡3 MGQ/‡0
*
1TK 686 C9 D6 J3 I2 R0*ISTMGQ 1125P 705A‡1 738 M 1 TQ DCA /E
Y9 B9 M9 K9 H9 S9 E9 Q9 T9

Oh boy. Thanks to FT TalkMail bring this to my attention... This thread makes my day!

Would you buy it if it was still available?

Looks like MGQ flights are wide open (guess why:D), but KBL is already packed:


01APR SUN IST/Z‡3 KBL/‡1.5
*
1TK 706 C0 D0 J0 I0 R0*ISTKBL 345A 1000A 320 M 0 XWJ DCA /E
Y1 B0 M0 K0 H0 S0 E0 Q0 T0

29MAR THU IST/Z‡3 MGQ/‡0
*
1TK 686 C9 D6 J3 I2 R0*ISTMGQ 1125P 705A‡1 738 M 1 TQ DCA /E
Y9 B9 M9 K9 H9 S9 E9 Q9 T9

KBL is a much more established route with a longer TK history and a lot more established "business" demand than MGQ -- including that demand related to government/military assignment/placement. Also, Afghan VFR market participants are wealthier than Somali VFR market particpants.

The fare is alive.
Finding G space is the challenge.
Also I saw YTO-MGQ fares are loaded.
The minimum stay could be lethal: You must stay Sunday.

+1
I went there in 2007 and I felt very safe, and I also brought back some Havana Club.Yeah, I did that in 1997,
but 'they' made me pour it down the drain at IAH... :(

Yeah, I did that in 1997,
but 'they' made me pour it down the drain at IAH... :(

I declared it at YVR and they let the 3rd bottle go for free as well!

I don't get Havana on your list?

But...but...but...what about COMM-YOU-NIZZZMMM??? :rolleyes:

Agreed, Havana is a beautiful and safe city.

I never said it wasn't. And the list was not meant to be comprehensive or definitive. But your head is in a hole in the ground if you think that geo-politically, Havana is the same as, say, Rome or Bangkok. There are many airlines that are not able to offer regularly scheduled service to HAV due to political reasons, which I'm neither defending or opposing here.

This begs the question...is there any place in the world now that would otherwise be a logical destination for a global-alliance carrier but is not due to instability/unrest/political barriers, etc.

Havana? Check


I never said it wasn't. And the list was not meant to be comprehensive or definitive. But your head is in a hole in the ground if you think that geo-politically, Havana is the same as, say, Rome or Bangkok. There are many airlines that are not able to offer regularly scheduled service to HAV due to political reasons, which I'm neither defending or opposing here.

Maybe I misunderstood your first post, but it seemed like you were saying that Havana would be a logical destination for a global-alliance carrier except for the instability/unrest/political barriers, etc.

Havana is served by MANY global alliance carriers. So geo-political differences between Havana and Bangkok/Rome have very little to do with it (aside from dated USA policy on Cuba). Havana doesn't belong in the list with the other cities you mentioned.

And honestly, I've not been to Rome, but I felt much safer in Havana than Bangkok.

Maybe I misunderstood your first post, but it seemed like you were saying that Havana would be a logical destination for a global-alliance carrier except for the instability/unrest/political barriers, etc.

Havana is served by MANY global alliance carriers. So geo-political differences between Havana and Bangkok/Rome have very little to do with it (aside from dated USA policy on Cuba). Havana doesn't belong in the list with the other cities you mentioned.

And honestly, I've not been to Rome, but I felt much safer in Havana than Bangkok.

BKK Chinatown is really sketchy.

Maybe I misunderstood your first post, but it seemed like you were saying that Havana would be a logical destination for a global-alliance carrier except for the instability/unrest/political barriers, etc.

Havana is served by MANY global alliance carriers. So geo-political differences between Havana and Bangkok/Rome have very little to do with it (aside from dated USA policy on Cuba). Havana doesn't belong in the list with the other cities you mentioned.


Sorry, you did misunderstand my first post, as I did point out that Havana IS served by global alliance carriers, along with every other city on my (admittedly arbitrary) list.

My point was only to list cities that MIGHT be "not served" for various reasons, but are, in fact, served. Places like Baghdad, Tehran, Pyongyang, etc ALL have service from global alliance carriers. And now we can say that a global alliance carrier even serves Mogadishu. My point was that there is no longer any place on earth that is not served by a global alliance carrier, barring destinations that are not commercially viable. That's a good thing, IMO.

But: Havana CAN be mentioned in the same breath as cities like Tehran and Pyongyang in that not just any global alliance carrier can up and start service there. Political barriers prevent unfettered service to those 3 destinations (and likely others) but you can still get there on at least one global alliance carrier (or many, as in HAV's case.)

While the original fare basis has come & gone hence why it was moved over to MR Discussion, I have found the same price is back for dates for travel up to June. Well, that is to say travel on the outbound permitted before 6 June 2012 and this deal which is fare basis is WXPC1M1. "W" earns 100% for UA MP though none on AC AP according to each FFP website and didn't check others.

Note as per fare rules while there is no min. stay there is a max. stay of 1 month. :D

Dates at this price, which comes up as THY 1014 including taxes on TK website, I quickly found were 10-13 April. The rate winds up being approx. CAD$559 AI.

If anyone is brave enough here's your second chance!

Note as per fare rules while there is no min. stay there is a max. stay of 1 month. :D


"You'll have to let me go after 1 month: it's the max TK will let me stay."

I have found the same price is back for dates for travel up to June.
...
Dates at this price, which comes up as THY 1014 including taxes on TK website, I quickly found were 10-13 April. The rate winds up being approx. CAD$559 AI.



That's not quite the same price as the first "deal."

Would you buy it if it was still available?

Yes, I would dare, but only if I can find good fare to go to IST first. Just used up all my HKG-IST-LAX RT tickets... However

... fare basis is WXPC1M1. "W" earns 100% for UA MP though none on AC AP according to each FFP website and didn't check others.

This would be a show stopper...

BKK Chinatown is really sketchy.

Really? hummm... BKK is next trip...

One could fly in, go through immigration/customs, step outside and have someone take your picture (to say that you've been to Somalia) and then walk back in the terminal to check in for the afternon Jubba Airways flight to NBO.

That's not quite the same price as the first "deal."

True and was thinking EUR 199 was + tax, not AI. Apologies.

I am surprised with all this discussion, that there has not been one that has committed to it yet. I would imagine that even security for the outside photo shot would be expensive!!!

Of course, I will expect this destination to be a feature destination on Turkish Airlines Skylife in flight magazine shortly, explaining the wonders of this new route along with the other features (scenery perhaps). :eek:

I am surprised with all this discussion, that there has not been one that has committed to it yet. I would imagine that even security for the outside photo shot would be expensive!!!

Of course, I will expect this destination to be a feature destination on Turkish Airlines Skylife in flight magazine shortly, explaining the wonders of this new route along with the other features (scenery perhaps). :eek:

This is the most dangerous MR ever, remember that.
If anyone does this and shows me the Somalia passport stamp, a picture, and return BPs then I will buy you a drink in YVR.

This is the most dangerous MR ever, remember that.
If anyone does this and shows me the Somalia passport stamp, a picture, and return BPs then I will buy you a drink in YVR.

If you dare to do the MR together with me, I'll buy you a drink in Mogadishu

:p

I knew I should have gone on this mileage run! Missed opportunity : (

http://www.nytimes.com/2012/04/04/world/africa/somalis-embrace-hope-and-reconstruction-in-mogadishu.html

: p

I knew I should have gone on this mileage run! Missed opportunity : (

http://www.nytimes.com/2012/04/04/world/africa/somalis-embrace-hope-and-reconstruction-in-mogadishu.html

: p

The Somali shilling has been surging in value, from 33,000 shillings to the dollar six months ago to 20,000 today. Real estate prices are skyrocketing because of all the international organizations coming back to Mogadishu after a 20-year hiatus.

Back in college, I pondered whether we could invest our unspent board money (~$200) in some real estate in mogadishu... still haven't figured that one out yet :p

Darn! Day late and a Somali shilling short :D

If anyone does this and shows me the Somalia passport stamp, a picture, and return BPs then I will buy you a drink in YVR.

Jeez...you must be real fun at a do, if that's what it takes to get a drink out of you!

Darn! Day late and a Somali shilling short :D

The Somali shilling is one of those strange paper currencies where the issuing authority/state dissoved and yet the currency remained in common use in the area. The Economist magazine has an article about this in the issue released last Friday.

Investing in transition state economies returning into some semblance of normalcy can be very lucrative for those who know what they are doing.

If anyone does this and shows me the Somalia passport stamp, a picture, and return BPs then I will buy you a drink in YVR.Jeez...you must be real fun at a do, if that's what it takes to get a drink out of you!

He knows from personal experience that one can't simply take a FlyerTalker at his/her word regarding tickets booked/ticketed, much less flown! :D:D

He knows from personal experience that one can't simply take a FlyerTalker at his/her word regarding tickets booked/ticketed, much less flown! :D:D
http://i.qkme.me/3on95e.jpg

Wondering if this fare will return now that mogadishu is poised to be the next hot tourist destination: http://www.telegraph.co.uk/travel/travelnews/9447077/Somalia-does-tourism-stand-a-chance-in-Mogadishu.html

Wondering if this fare will return now that mogadishu is poised to be the next hot tourist destination: http://www.telegraph.co.uk/travel/travelnews/9447077/Somalia-does-tourism-stand-a-chance-in-Mogadishu.html

The lowest fare to get there is $1390 from SEA, so I don't see myself going there anytime soon.

1400Euros from Berlin. NO thanks, or I would do it. I regret not jumping on it back then.

1400Euros from Berlin. NO thanks, or I would do it. I regret not jumping on it back then.

And you also need to convert USD 100 to local currency on arrival, according to TIMATIC.
It also doesn't help that there's no embassy of Somalia in YOW.
BER seems to have one, though.

But looks like it is just a post box with no open hours. I know they got it back last year. Anyways, anything close to this comes up again, I'll go.