I found myself in Monrovia in late 2002, near the end of the Civil War. I was there doing some research for a travel guide of Africa and the editors wanted me to cover this area. While I was there, I saw no tourists there, except for some people from neighboring African countries. My research was somewhat limited as I could not leave the city ( I was told there was a very High probablilty that I would be kidnapped or killed outside the city, then they added there was a slight probability the same could happen to me in Monrovia). Very reassuring, especially coming from the Tourism secretary. I have to say though, there was some kind of rush being in a war-torn city. It definitely is not for everyone. I would hear gunfire from time to time and several explosions while there. Needless to say, I did not venture out a whole lot by myself. I was fortunate enough to have an armed escort with me while I checked out some restaurants, hotels, and a few tourist sights.