The Glorious Nations of IwakuBoard

Tourist Advisory for Calva: Important Do's and Don'ts
Welcome to Calva, a beautiful country with a deep history, vibrant culture, and diverse religious traditions. As you explore Calva, it's important to be mindful of both the country's historical scars from the Civil War and the religious customs that shape everyday life. Here are some guidelines to ensure a safe, respectful, and enjoyable visit.

Do's
Respect Historical Sites and Civil War Memorials
Many sites across Calva still bear the marks of the Civil War (1991–2001), including bullet-ridden buildings, abandoned towns, and preserved memorials.

Must-See Sites:
Stameas Plaza Ruins in Agios Górtyna: A solemn reminder of the war.
The Civil War Memorial Museum: A comprehensive exhibit detailing Calva’s journey from conflict to peace.
Do Be Respectful: Refrain from making insensitive comments about the war or taking pictures in solemn locations without permission.

Adhere to Safety Warnings in Austine and Uznia Border Regions
Landmine Warnings: The Austine/Uznia border still has some areas under de-mining operations. Stay on marked paths, as wandering off can be dangerous. Signs are posted in both Calvan and English.

Unexploded Ordnance (UXO): In abandoned or remote areas, particularly around former conflict zones, there is still the potential for unexploded bombs and shells. Avoid touching suspicious objects and report any findings to local authorities immediately.

Be Mindful of Local Religious Customs
Orthodox Christianity in Calva

Dress Modestly in Churches: When visiting Orthodox Christian churches, especially during services, dress modestly by covering your shoulders and legs. Women may be required to cover their heads in some more traditional regions.

Respect Religious Icons and Rituals: Icons, candles, and other religious items are sacred in Orthodox churches. Do not touch them unless invited by clergy, and refrain from taking photos without permission.

Islam in Austine

Dress Respectfully in Muslim Communities: Austine is predominantly Muslim, and modest clothing is appreciated, especially in mosques and religious neighborhoods. Women should wear headscarves when entering mosques, and both men and women should wear long clothing that covers arms and legs.

Observe Prayer Times: Five daily prayers are central to Islamic practice. During these times, especially on Fridays, be mindful of the increased activity around mosques and avoid interrupting prayers.

Enjoy Calva's Rich Cheese Industry and Cuisine
Explore Calva's Massive Cheese Industry: Calva is renowned for its thriving cheese industry, which is not only a cornerstone of its economy but also a delightful tourist attraction.

Cheese Tours and Tastings: Visit local dairies and cheese factories where you can witness the cheese-making process firsthand. Participate in guided tours that explain traditional methods passed down through generations.

Famous Calvan Cheeses: Don't miss trying Kalathaki (a soft, white cheese), Krasotiri (wine-soaked cheese), and Metsovone (a smoked cheese). Many regions have their own unique varieties.

Cheese Festivals: If your visit coincides with one of Calva's cheese festivals, such as the Annual Cheese Fair in Lykos, make sure to attend for an immersive cultural experience filled with food, music, and local crafts.

Traditional Calvan Cuisine: Taste local dishes like Pastitsada and fresh seafood, which often incorporate Calva's delicious cheeses.

Austine Cuisine: Austine has a distinct local cuisine with must-try dishes like Ćevapi (grilled minced meat sausages), Burek (savory pastry), and Sogan-dolma (stuffed onions). These meals offer hearty and delicious flavors, sometimes featuring local cheeses.

Be Polite and Engage with Locals: A simple greeting like “Kaliméra” (Good morning) or “Efharistó” (Thank you) will go a long way in showing respect.

Don'ts
Don’t Stray into Restricted Areas
Some of the war-torn regions, especially near the Austine/Uznia border, are off-limits due to landmines and unexploded ordnance (UXOs). Stay away from fenced-off or marked areas.

Abandoned Buildings: Calva still has many abandoned structures left from the war. Though some may seem like intriguing exploration spots, many are unsafe or may still contain dangerous remnants like UXOs. Stick to guided tours.

Don’t Take Photos at Military or Joint-Use Airports
Several airports, such as Agios Górtyna International Airport, are joint-use airports serving both military and civilian functions. Photography is strictly prohibited at these locations. Violating this rule could result in fines or arrest.
Don’t Disrespect Religious Sensibilities
Orthodox Christianity: Avoid loud conversations, casual clothing, or any disruptive behavior in or near churches, particularly during religious ceremonies.

Muslim Communities in Austine: Public displays of affection, alcohol consumption, and provocative clothing are considered disrespectful in Muslim areas. Respect these customs, especially during the holy month of Ramadan, when fasting occurs from dawn to dusk.

Do Not Engage in Political Conversations Regarding the Civil War
The Civil War (1991–2001) is still a sensitive subject for many Calvans, and open conversations about the conflict or political tensions should be avoided, especially in public places.
Additional Safety Hazards
Landmines and UXOs
The Austine/Uznia border region still has some landmine fields under clearance. Stay on marked trails and never venture into restricted areas. Red flags and fences mark dangerous zones.

Unexploded Ordnance (UXO): In some remote or abandoned parts of the country, remnants of the war may still exist. If you encounter any suspicious objects, do not approach or touch them. Report them to local authorities immediately.

Tourist Police
Calva has a specialized Tourist Police force dedicated to ensuring the safety of visitors. These officers can assist with general tourist information, address any concerns or disputes, and provide help in emergencies. Tourist Police are commonly found in major cities and tourist hotspots, and they wear distinct uniforms with light blue shirts and navy trousers. They are trained to speak multiple languages, including English, to better assist foreign visitors.

Tourist Police Emergency Number: 105
Tourist Information Centers
For further information and assistance, tourists can visit Tourist Information Centers located in major cities like Agios Górtyna, Stameas, and Lykos. These centers offer brochures, maps, local guides, and advice on transportation, accommodation, and cultural activities. Knowledgeable staff can help plan your itinerary and provide updates on current events and festivals.

Border Restrictions and Biosecurity Measures
Calva takes biosecurity very seriously to protect its local ecosystem. Certain items are restricted or prohibited from being brought into the country:

Restricted Items Due to Biosecurity Risks:
Fresh Fruits and Vegetables: To prevent the introduction of pests or diseases that could harm Calva's agriculture, the import of fresh produce is heavily restricted.

Meat and Dairy Products: Due to risks of disease transmission, travelers are not allowed to bring in meat and dairy products unless they have been processed and sealed according to international standards.

Live Plants and Seeds: The import of plants, seeds, and other agricultural products is strictly regulated to avoid introducing foreign pests and invasive species.

Soil: Soil from other countries poses a significant risk of carrying harmful pathogens, and it is prohibited from entering Calva.

Pets: Pets must have proper vaccinations and certifications to ensure they do not bring in diseases that could affect local wildlife.

Unprocessed Wood: Bringing unprocessed wood or wooden products is restricted to avoid the introduction of harmful insects or fungi.

Other Seized Items:
Undeclared Currency: There are strict regulations on the amount of currency (in Calvan Goa—Ǥ) you can bring into the country without declaring it. Failing to declare large amounts can result in fines and seizures.

Weapons and Firearms: These are strictly regulated, and bringing any form of weapon without the proper documentation is prohibited.

Drugs: Illegal drugs are banned, and possession or trafficking can lead to severe penalties, including imprisonment.

Final Safety and Etiquette Tips
Emergency Numbers:

Police: 100

Ambulance: 166

Fire Brigade: 199

Tourist Police: 105

Respect Cultural Sensitivities:

Calvans are proud of their nation’s progress, but be sensitive to topics relating to the Civil War, religion, and national identity. Avoid making insensitive remarks or gestures that may cause offense.
Enjoy your visit to Calva! Be safe, respectful, and open to the rich cultural and historical experiences the country has to offer. Don't forget to indulge in Calva's famous cheeses and immerse yourself in the local culinary delights!