SA Accommodation
South Africa caters for a wide spectrum of visitors - from 5-star hotels to
self-catering cottages. Guest houses and B&B's have become increasingly
popular with visitors mainly because of lower rates and excellent service.
National Parks and Game Reserves as well as the private reserves have their
own accommodation facilities.
The major hotel groups are:
Sun International
Tel +27-11-780 7800
Fax +27-11-780 7457
The Leading Hotels of SA
Tel +27-11-884 3583
Fax +27-11-884 0676
Protea Hotels
Tel. +27-11-484 1717
Fax +27-11-484 2752
Southern Sun Hotels
Tel. +27-11-482 3500
Fax +27-11-726 3019
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BANKING
Automated teller machines (ATM's) are situated in all towns and shopping
centres and are available 24-hours a day.
Budgeting
Few, if any, of South Africa's attractions are intrinsically expensive. Many
are protected in national parks, which are very reasonably priced. Private
lodges, and operators who run trips to the remote areas of the country can
be more expensive.
In all these cases you are paying for some combination of high levels of
luxury, the skills of first-class guides, and the logistics of finding
comfort in such remote places. By African standards, the prices of South
Africa's private lodges and safari operations remain reasonable. Much better
value than equivalent operations in any other African country. This is
partially because the economy is tied to the low-value South African Rand.
If you eat in restaurants, lunch will cost around R50.
Dinner, with perhaps a few beers or half a bottle of South African wine,
will be nearer R180.00 per person. National park fees are now largely
included in the accommodation and camping prices. The main additional
expense is fuel if you are driving, for which assume about R5 per liter. The
roads are usually open and easy, so expect to cruise at very economic
speeds.
How to take your money
South African Rand are essential for buying petrol and small items, whilst
most hotels, restaurants and larger shops accept credit cards. Many
travelers take most of their money as traveler's cheques (sterling or US
dollars). Smaller estbalishments in rural towns, however, prefer cash due to
the distances to towns.
Banks in the cities will cash any travelers' cheques, but American Express,
Visa, MasterCard and Diners are well recognised, and prompt replacements are
issued if cheques are stolen. Drawing money at a bank via credit cards is
easy, but it will take a few minutes longer than changing travelers'
cheques.
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CLIMATE
Generally, South Africa's climate allows for a sunny holiday at any time of
the year. In winter the temperatures can drop to minus zero Celsius,
especially in the highveld regions around Johannesburg. Snow also occurs on
the mountains in the Kwazulu Natal - Western-, Eastern- and Northern Cape
Provinces. In the Western Cape the winters are cool and wet, with winds
blowing between May and September but the temperatures remain mild. Durban
and the subtropical east coast enjoy mild weather in winter, but summers are
normally very hot. Summers in the semi-arid Karoo average high temperatures
in summer during the day and cool to cold evenings. Winters in this region
get very cold in winter during the night. The days are sunny and beautiful.
Your dress requirements may vary according to your particular destination,
so rather be prepared! If you intend spending a lot of time outdoors and
definitely in summer, bring a hat for protection against the rather
scorching sun. In the summer, lightweight cotton clothing is advised because
daytime temperatures generally hover around 25-30 degrees Celsius.
For the brief period of January until Mid-March, temperatures sometimes
reach 35 degrees. During this period, the nights might be just as hot. In
the Cape, with its Mediterranean climate, there is no rain to cool down the
air. You may or you may not want to bring a costume to swim in. There are a
few topless and nude beaches in South Africa, but generally nudity is still
frowned upon. Further inland there is often an afternoon or evening
thunderstorm. In fact, the rain may become quite heavy, so a raincoat is
advisable. In the summer evenings, the heat usually lessens and only a light
jacket is required.
In the winter months (May to October) the sun shines almost every day.
Daytime temperatures hover around 17 to 22 degrees Celsius. The evenings can
get very cold. Temperatures have been known to plummet to below zero in most
parts of the country. The greater South Africa experience semi-arid
temperatures. Hot days with cooler (summer), too very cold (winter) nights.
Many visitors, who come to view game in the parks and game farms, prefer to
visit these places in the drier winter months. With little rainfall at this
time of the year, you are more likely to see animals congregating around the
waterholes. The grass is shorter in winter, so spotting the game is easier.
But the parks are busier in the winter. The game is just as prolific, but
perhaps harder to see in summer. Summer can be unbearably hot specifically
in the most northern parts of the game parks. The vegetation in the game
parks of Natal, remain the same all year round, as does the weather
generally.
Visitors coming to enjoy the unique spring flowerings of the west coast from
September to November, usually experience very pleasant weather conditions.
The veldt is literally covered in carpets of the most beautiful, bright
flowers.
There are sharks in the seas around South Africa, even where there are
colder currents. The public beaches are well protected by shark nets, but be
alert of the unprotected beaches. Some beaches can have rather strong and
unpredictable ocean currents.
Visitors arriving in Johannesburg may feel a little drowsy at first because
of the high altitude of 1800 meters above sea level.
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CLOTHING
Most of your days you will want light, loose-fitting clothing. Cotton (or a
cotton-rich mix) is cooler and more absorbent than synthetic fibers. For
men, shorts (long ones) are usually fine, but long trousers are more
socially acceptable in towns and especially in rural settlements and
villages. For women knee-length skirts or culottes are best. South Africa
has a generally conservative dress code. Revealing or scruffy clothing isn't
respected or appreciated by most South Africans.
Light cottons, with slightly heavier cottons or light woolens for evenings.
In the evenings, especially for chilling rides in the back of safari
vehicles, you will need something warm. Nighttime temperatures in the winter
months can be very low, especially in semi-arid and Highveld areas. If
possible, dress in layers, taking along a light sweater (polar-fleeces are
ideal) and a long-sleeved jacket, or a tracksuit, and a light but waterproof
anorak. Note that some excellent cotton safari-wear is produced and sold
locally. Try the outdoor speciality shops in South Africa. Finally, don't
forget a squashable sun-hat. Cotton is perfect. Bring one for safety's sake,
even if you hate hats, as it will greatly reduce the chance of your getting
sunstroke when out walking.
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CURRENCY
The monetary unit is the Rand (R) which equals 100 cents. (International
symbol is ZAR).
Bank note denominations are R200, R100, R50, R20, and R10.
The best system is always to have some cash South African Rand whilst
conserving these by using credit cards where you can. Normal banking hours
are 08.30-15.30 weekdays and 08.30-12.00 on Saturdays, depending upon the
town. Banks will cash traveler's cheques or give cash advances on credit
cards, though the clearance required for a cash advance may take 30 minutes
or so. In the remoter areas cash is essential. Wherever you are, petrol
stations always require cash, since it does not accept credit cards. Banks
issue petrol cards, but it is only available to their clients.
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CUSTOMS
Duty-free allowances:
Cigarettes 400
Tobacco - 250g
Alcoholic beverages: - 1 liter of spirits, 2 liters of wine
Cigars 50
Perfume 50ml
Eau de Toilette - 250ml
Gifts, souvenirs and all other goods - R500
Green Channel
No commercial or restricted goods and within Duty-free allowance.
Customs Charges
Pay duty (an average of 20%) on items over allowed limit before leaving
Customs hall.
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DRIVING AND PUBLIC ROADS
are well developed and well sign-posted with driving done on the left.
Drivers must have an international driver's license and a minimum of 5
years' experience. It is wise to drive defensively as standards vary. This
is probably the best way to see the country.
Maps and navigation
South Africa has an excellent range of detailed 'Ordnance Survey'- type
maps available cheaply in South Africa at most book stores and news
agencies. Petrol station usually stock some good maps as well. If you are
planning a 4WD expedition, then you may need to buy some of these before you
head out into the bush.
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GPS systems
If you are heading into the more remote parts in your own vehicle, then
consider investing in a small GPS: a Global Positioning System.
International driver's license
An international driver's license is appropriate.
FACILITIES FOR THE DISABLED
All the airports, major hotels, most rest camps in the Kruger National Park
and lately built shopping centers provide facilities for the disabled. The
larger car hire companies can provide vehicles with hand controls. In
general, however, facilities are still lacking.
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TRAVEL ETIQUETTE IN SOUTH
AFRICA
South Africans are friendly people. Some guidelines might make your stay
more relaxed.
Greetings:
African societies are rarely as rushed as Western ones. You should
always greet the person first before making enquiries. Friendly handshakes
are expected in the more rural areas.
Etiquette in Clothing:
Your clothing is an area that can easily give offence. Skimpy, revealing
clothing is frowned upon by most South African cultures, especially when
worn by women. Shorts are fine for the bush or the beach, but dress
conservatively and avoid short shorts, especially in the more rural areas.
Respectable locals will wear long trousers (men) or long skirts (women).
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HEALTH TIPS WHEN
YOU TRAVEL TO SOUTH AFRICA
PREPARATION
No immunization is needed when entering the country except when entering
it within six days after leaving a yellow-fever infected area.
Malaria risks in the northeastern parts of the Northern Province, eastern
Mphumalanga and northern Kwazulu Natal is high ( F. Falciparum strain).
Consult any chemist (drugstore) for details. For a more comprehensive
discussion of health requirements, the following website is recommended:
http://www.cdc.gov/travel/safrica.htm
The risk during summer months is high for malaria but for visitors visiting
the northern areas of the country it is recommended that preventative
measures should be taken throughout the year. Rabbis is present and if you
are bitten by an animal you must seek medical assistance immediately.
Vaccination against rabies is unnecessary for most visitors, but would be
wise for those who travel for extended periods, or stay in rural areas.
The Mpumalanga Lowveld, Kruger National Park and Zululand in Natal, are all
malarial areas. If you should go into these areas, it is probably best to
leave as little of the body exposed when the mosquitoes are active after
sunset. You are advised to use mosquito nets and vapour repellents too.
Unless you are specifically told by authorities that the water is safe to
drink, bilharzia can still be found in most of the malaria invested areas
where there are lakes, lagoons, dams and stagnant water. Don't just drink
any water and be careful about swimming in such places. The water is safe to
drink in all main towns, but it is best to drink bottled water in rural
areas.The Cape Provinces are generally safer.
An emergency kit is a must if you're going to stay and spend some time on
foot in rural areas. There are scorpions, snakes and spiders, but if you
leave them undisturbed, they usually shy away from you. Don't turn over
rocks. It is best to wear long pants and boots to prevent possible bites,
when out in the veld. Check yourself for ticks at the end of an outing.
Visit the SATOUR, or British Airways sites to ensure the correct information
on health requirements.
There are excellent travel clinics in almost all countries.
British Airways Travel Clinic and Immunisation Service:
136 Regent St. London WI, tel. 020 7439 9384
There are three BA clinics in South Africa as well
MASTA( Medical Advisory Service for Travellers Abroad) Keppel street,
London. WCI.
South African Airways Netcare Travel Clinic in Port Elizabeth
19 Westbourne road, Central Tel 041 374 7471
USA:
Center for Diseases Control: 1600 Clifton Raod, Atlants, GA 30333.
http:.www.cdc.gov/travel/
This organisation also publishes the Health Information for International
Travel every summer. It is a comprehensive study and can be obtained from
their division of Quarentine.
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AVAILABLE MEDICAL SERVICES IN
SOUTH AFRICA.
For visitors with health insurance, there are several first-class
private hospitals and an efficient company, MediRescue, which provides
emergency air evacuations from the rural areas.
Visitors to South Africa should always take out a comprehensive medical
insurance policy to cover them for emergencies, including the cost of
evacuation to bigger cities and towns within the region. Such policies come
with an emergency number (often on a reverse-charge/call collect basis). You
would be wise to memorise this, or indelibly tattoo it in as many places as
possible on your baggage.
Personal effects insurance is also a sensible precaution, but check the
policy's fine print before you leave home. Often, in even the best policies,
you will find a limit per item, or per claim - which can be well below the
cost of a replacement. If you need to list your valuables separately, then
do so comprehensively. Check that receipts are not required for claims if
you do not have them, also that the excess, which you have to pay on a claim
is reasonable.
Annual travel policies can be excellent value if you travel a lot, and some
of the larger credit-card companies offer excellent policies. However, it
can often be better to get your valuables named and insured for travel using
your home contents insurance. These year-round policies will try harder to
settle your claim fairly as they want your business in the long term.
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MEDICAL EMERGENCY KIT
Pharmacies in the main towns in South Africa generally have very good
supplies of medicines, but away from these you will find very little. If
you're venturing deep into the wilds, then you should take with you anything
that you expect to need.
If you are on an organised trip, an overlanding truck, or staying at hotels,
lodges or safari camps, then you will not need much, as these establishments
normally have comprehensive emergency kits.
In that case, just a small personal medical kit should include:
* Antihistamine tablets
* Antiseptic
* Aspirins or paracetamol
* Condoms and contraceptive pills
* Lip-salve (ideally containing a sunscreen)
* Malaria prophylaxis
* Insect repellent
* Micropore tape (for closing small cuts - and invaluable for blisters)
* Moisturising cream
* Sticking plaster (a roll is more versatile than pre-shaped plasters)
* Sunscreen with a high protection level
However, if you are likely to end up in very remote situations, then you
should also consider taking the following:
* Burn dressings (burns are a common problem for campers)
* Injection swabs, sterile needles and syringes
* Lint
* Sterile bandage and safety pins
* Oral rehydration sachets
* Steristrips or butterfly closures
* Strong painkiller (codeine phosphate - also use for bad diarrhoea)
* Tweezers (perhaps those on a Swiss army knife)
* Water purification equipment (2% tincture of iodine and dropper is ideal)
* Several different malaria treatment courses and broad-spectrum antibiotics
* Plus a good medical manual.
If you wear glasses, bring a spare pair. Similarly those who wear contact
lenses should bring spare ones, also a pair of glasses in case the dust
proves too much for the lenses.
If you take regular medication (including contraceptive pills) then bring a
large supply with you - much easier than hunting for your usual brand in
South Africa.
Equally, it's worth having a dental check-up before you go, as you could be
several painful days from the nearest dentist.
STAYING HEALTHY
South Africa is probably the healthiest country in sub-Saharan Africa
for visitors. It has a generally low population density and a very dry
climate, which means there are comparatively few problems likely to affect
visitors. The risks are further minimised if you are staying in good hotels,
lodges, camps and guest farms, where standards of hygiene are generally at
least as good as you will find at home. The major dangers in South Africa
are car accidents caused by driving too fast on gravel roads, and sunburn.
Both can also be very serious, yet both are within the power of the visitor
to avoid.
The following is general advice, applicable to traveling anywhere, including
South Africa:
HEALTH: Food and storage.
Throughout the world, most health problems encountered by travelers are
contracted by eating contaminated food or drinking unclean water. If you are
staying in safari camps or lodges, or eating in restaurants, then you are
unlikely to have problems in South Africa. However, South Africa's water
supplies are generally the healthiest in Africa.
If you are backpacking and cooking for yourself, or relying on local food,
then you need to take more care. Tins, packets, and fresh green vegetables
and fruit are least likely to cause problems - provided that clean water has
been used in preparing the meal. In South Africa's hot climate, keeping meat
or animal products unrefrigerated for more than a few hours is asking for
trouble, especially in summer.
HEALTH: Water and purification
Tap water in South Africa's major towns and borehole water used in many more
remote locations is perfectly safe to drink. However, even the mildest of
the local microbes may cause slight upset stomachs for an overseas visitor.
Two-liter bottles of mineral water are available from most supermarkets;
Tablets sold for purification are based on either chlorine, iodine or
silver, and normally adequate.
HEALTH: Heat and sun
Heat stroke, heat exhaustion and sunburn are often problems for travelers to
Africa, despite being easy to prevent. To avoid them, you need to remember
that your body is under stress and make allowances for it. First, take
things gently; you are on holiday, after all. Next, keep your fluid and salt
levels high: lots of water and soft drinks, but go easy on the caffeine and
alcohol. Thirdly, dress to keep cool with loose-fitting, thin garments -
preferably of cotton, linen or silk. Finally, beware of the sun. Hats and
long-sleeved shirts are essential. If you must expose your skin to the sun,
then use sun blocks and high factor sunscreens (the sun is so strong that
you will still get a tan).
HEALTH: Avoiding insect bites
The most dangerous biting insects in Africa are mosquitoes, because they
can transmit malaria, yellow fever, and a host of other diseases. Research
has shown that using a mosquito net over your bed, and covering up exposed
skin (by wearing long-sleeved shirts, and tucking trousers into socks) in
the evening, are the most effective steps towards preventing bites. Bed-net
treatment kits are available from travel clinics; these prevent mosquitoes
biting through a net if you roll against it in your sleep, and also make old
and holy nets protective. Mosquito coils and chemical insect repellents will
help, and sleeping in a stream of moving air, such as under a fan, or in an
air conditioned room, will help to reduce your chances of being bitten.
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SOUTH AFRICAN LANGUAGES
There are 11 official languages.
The two major Black languages are Zulu and Xhosa.
English is the official language and is taught throughout the education
system, though Afrikaans is still the lingua franca amongst many of the
people. The main ethnic languages fall into the Bantu and Khoisan
language groups. Most black South Africans will also speak one or
more African languages, whilst many white South Africans (especially
those in the commercial farming communities) regard Afrikaans their first
language.
The English speaking tourist will experience no difficulties,
neither the Dutch nor Flemish speakers. Most of the larger
institutions and operators cater for German, French and Japanese groups.
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NEWS MEDIA IN SOUTH AFRICA
There is an abundance of newspapers, magazines, radio stations as well as
four television services in various languages. DSTV - a satellite privately
owned service provide 24-hour coverage from CNN, BBC and other European
broadcasts.
Follow these links to some of the South African media sites:
News24
Mail and Guardian
South African Newspapers
PHOTOGRAPHY
For photography, South Africa is a stunning country in any month. The light
is gorgeous, the people interesting and the scenery breathtaking! Even with
the simplest of camera equipment you can get truly spectacular results. My
favorite time for photography is April to June. Then the dust have been
washed out of the air by the rains, the vegetation is still green, and yet
the sky is clear blue with only a few wispy white clouds. Most South
Africans will be only too happy to be photographed - provided you ask their
permission first.
POLICE SERVICES
You'll find a Police station in every town.
The South African Police are listed under
Government Departments at the back of the
telephone directory as "SA Police Service".
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POSTAL SERVICES
Opening hours is:
Weekdays - 08:30 to 16:30
Saturday - 08:00 to 12:00
Speed services offer 24-hour deliveries.
PUBLIC HOLIDAYS
During South African's public holidays the towns shut down, though the
national parks and other attractions just carry on regardless. Banks and big
businesses are closed as well then.
| January 1 | - New Year's Day |
| March 21- | - Humans Right's Day |
| April 27 | - Freedom Day |
| May 1 | - Worker's Day |
| June 16 | - Youth Day |
| August 9 | - Women's Day |
| September 25 | - Heritage Day |
| December 16 | - Reconciliation Day |
| December 25 | - Christmas Day |
| December 26 | - Day of Goodwill |
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SECURITY IN SOUTH AFRICA
Crime is prevalent in the big cities. Don't walk in deserted areas or alone
at night. Follow the advice of the security staff of the hotels you are
staying at. Don't carry large sums of money or expensive cameras in city
centers. Use the hotel safe deposit box for valuables.
* Jewellery attracks the handbag snatchers.
* Make sure your car is in good condition.
* Police emergency number is in any given area. 10111
* A mobile/cell phone should be considered.
* Always let people know about your destination.
* Try not to look like a tourist.
South Africa has similar problems as the rest of the world as far as crime
is concerned.
Be prepared.
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SALES TAX
Tourists can have their sales tax (Value Added Tax or VAT) refunded at the
port of exit provided the value of purchases exceeds R250. However, the
necessary forms must be completed by the shop to enable the traveler to get
the VAT reimbursed.
VAT ( value added sales tax ) is currently 14% and levied on most items.
TELECOMMUNICATION IN SOUTH
AFRICA
The facilities are of high standard, widely available and offer
international dialing, telex, telefax,
electronic mail and cellular phone options.
IDD is available.
Country code: 027 ( incoming ) 00 (outgoing)
Timezone: GMT +2
South Africa is 2 hours ahead of GMT, one hour ahead of Central European
wintertime and 7 hours ahead of Eastern Standard wintertime (USA).
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TRADING HOURS
Weekdays: 09:00 to 17:30
Saturdays: 08:30 to 15:00
Sundays: 09:00 to 13:00 (metropolitan areas only)
TRANSPORT IN SOUTH AFRICA
South Africa does not have a well-developed road- or rail public
transport system (like Europe or Japan). Major cities have bus services and
inter- city bus transport is readily available. Taxis are available on call.
The air transport system is well developed with a large number of local
carriers. More than 60 international airlines operate to and from South
Africa. Car hire services are available in all cities and most of the larger
towns. Drivers must have an international driver's license and a minimum of
5 years' experience. Cars can be hired from airports or arranged through
travel agents.
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USEFUL ITEMS TO PACK IN
* Sunblock and lipsalve for vital protection from the sun
* Sunglasses - essential - ideally dark with a high U-V absorption.
* Insect repellent, especially if traveling to the north or during the rains
* A 'Leatherman' multi-purpose tool. Never go into the bush without one of
these amazing assistants
* Electrical insulating tape - remarkably useful for general repairs
* Camera, film and long lenses (see Photography section)
* Basic sewing kit, with at least some really strong thread for repairs
* Cheap waterproof watch (leave expensive ones, and jewellery, at home)
* Couple of paperback novels
* Large plastic 'bin-liner' (garbage) bags, for protecting your luggage from
dust
* A simple medical kit
* A magnifying glass, for looking at some of the smaller attractions
* And for backpackers, useful extras might include:
* Concentrated, biodegradable washing powder
* Long-life candles
* Nylon Para cord (20m) for emergencies and washing lines
* Good compass and a whistle
* More comprehensive medical kit
* Universal plug
* Film can be more expensive in South Africa, but print films are readily
available in main towns, as are the
more common slide films.
* Buying one polystyrene coolbox just for films is a great investment.
Protection from sun and heat is essential.
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VISA Documents
All visitors must have a passport, which is valid for at least six months
after they are due to leave, and an
onward ticket of some sort. In practice, the second requirement is rarely
even considered if you look neat,
respectable and fairly affluent.
Most passport holders need visas, including those from Commonwealth
countries. Visas are not issued on arrival and should be acquired before
departure in your country. Contact the nearest South African Embassy, or
Highcommisioner in your country.
Apply for multiple entry visas should you wish to visit neighboring
countries.
WHEN TO BOOK
South Africa is never crowded. It becomes busier around Easter and from
late July to early September. Then advanced bookings are essential. Many of
the lodges and rest camps in and around the National Parks are fully booked
for the holiday seasons. Book in advance to ensure a relaxing stay.
is nie 'n politieke foefie nie, maar eerder 'n poging om die kerk te
beveilig sodat dit sy kultuurhistoriese waardes behou."
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