Frequently Asked Questions
This part is the frequently asked questions, and it will be updated as you ask us questions. Also if you have any other questions; please don’t hesitate to contact us.
General Questions
What are the dates for the Championship?
Botswana Worlds 2011 runs from 27 December 2010 to 4 January 2011, with the first and last days set for arrivals and departures.
What will be the format of the debates?
The championship will be held in the British Parliamentary Format. In other worlds, each team is made up of 2 students, coming from the same university.
Will there be Internet access at the Championship?
Internet connection will be available for your service in the halls of residence and designated areas on campus.
What Currency does Botswana use?
Currency used in Botswana is Pula. The current exchange rates is 7 Pula to 1 USD
Where can I get money if I need to?
Exchange office at the halls of residence will be able to meet your demand through your stay. In case you will not be able to find your preferred currency, our Organization Committee will be there to help you.
How expensive is Gaborone?
Below is a short list of some items and corresponding costs. The costs are listed in the currency of Botswana (Pula) and US Dollars (USD)
- Beer at Pub : 8 BWP / 1.3 USD
- Beer at Store : 5 BWP / 0.80 USD
- Big Mac : 25 BWP / 4.20 USD
- Fine Meal : 30 BWP / 5 USD
- Safari Trip : 55 BWP / 9.10 USD
- Cab ride anywhere in the city : 30 BWP / 5 USD
- Movie Ticket : 30 BWP / 5 USD
- Souvenir T-Shirt : 50 BWP / 8.30 USD
- Large Pizza : 30 BWP / 5 USD
What type of electrical connector is used in Botswana?
Botswana uses three and two pin plugs. Nice pictures here http://www.travel-images.com/electric-plugs.html
What will the weather be like?
Temperatures in Gaborone during December and January are generally between 35 to 50 degrees Celsius. Hot and dry, quite cool at night. Debate venues will be air conditioned. It's a good idea to bring shades and sunblock.
Registration Questions
What is the registration fee?
The registration fee is 450 USD per person, both for adjudicators and debaters, whereas it is 750 USD for observers. If an adjudicator or debater would like to stay in a single room, there will be an additional fee of 200 USD.
How can I register?
Registration for Botswana Worlds will be run online through our website www.botswanaworlds.com and it will be a four step process.
When does registration open?
You can find detailed information about registration in registration page, http://botswanaworlds.com/registration
How can I pay the registration fee?
The registration fee can be paid by international wire transfer direct to our bank account. Bank information is on our registration page, http://botswanaworlds.com/registration
Do I need a visa to enter Botswana?
For the citizens of a majority of countries, a visa is either not required or is easily obtained. If you do need a visa, please contact us early so we can provide you with the necessary information/assistance. For more information and details http://www.botswanatourism.co.bw/getting_in/visas.html
Payment Options
Wire transfer only. Credit card payments incur additional fees higher than those required by wire transfers which we have to pay for, and is proving difficult to set up on our end.
Where is the link to the Online Registration Page?
The link will become available when registration opens. It will be http://register.botswanaworlds.com and will be displayed on the front page of the website. Don't go there now, it is inactive.
I need to send a photo?
We need photos at the 3rd stage of registration, when you are updating personal information. These photos will be used to create photo IDs so you don't have to carry your passports around.
What time does registration open?
We apologise for the confusion with the registration times. All phases will start at 8GMT. That is 10 AM in Southern Africa.
Food
What dietary needs will be provided for?
Following dietary requirements will be prepared for your taste.
- Vegetarian
- Vegan
- Lactose-Intolerant
- Celiac
- Nut allergy
- Ha’lal
- Kosher
- MSG free
If you have a specific dietary requirements beyond those listed above, please do not hesitate to contact us in advance and we will do our best to work something out.
Socials
What is the legal drinking age in Botswana?
The legal age for drinking alcohol in Botswana is eighteen.
Will I need to carry ID at any stage during the tournament to verify my age?
You may be required to show a passport or a driver's license to verify your age eighteen in order to be served alcohol.
Accommodation
Are you providing accommodation if I arrive a few days before the Championships or am staying a few days after?
Unfortunately, we wont be able to provide pre or post tournament accommodation on campus. We can help you make a booking at one of our sponsor hotels.
What are the standards of the rooms?
The majority of the rooms in our hostels will be double sharing with two double beds in each room. If you would like to stay in a single room, there is an additional fee of 200 USD

