Climate:
As the country lies in the southern hemisphere, the seasons in South Africa are the reverse of those in the northern hemisphere. December and January are the main summer holiday months, and people flock to the beaches in droves. In May and June, Autumn brings warm days and cool nights. The climate is at its best at this time in most parts of the country. Autumn and Spring are the best seasons for hiking. From the beginning of July to the end of September, you can expect cold conditions in most of the country, and rain in the Western Cape. Snow sometimes falls on the Natal Drakensburg and the Cape mountains in winter.
Health:
The Western and Eastern Cape Provinces are NOT in a Malaria zone. If you travel to other parts of the country check with your health authority and ensure that you take Malaria prophylaxsis when necessary.Tap Water in all cities is of a high standard and is drinkable. However mineral water ( still or sparkling ) is freely available.
Medical facilities are of a very high standard in private hospitals. It is advisable to purchase medical cover before you travel.
Visas:
Passport holders from more than 80 countries, including the USA, Canada, Japan and the European Union countries can visit South Africa without visas. For further information contact your local office of the diplomatic or consular representative of the South African Government.
Safety:
The Cape Town central city area is generally safe to walk around as is the Waterfront precinct as they have a very high security presence. The countryside is also not a problem. As a tourist please take the same precautions you would take travelling in the cities in your own country. Stay away from obviously dubious areas and ask the advice of your hotel concierge or tour guide.Whether you travel with me or not I am happy to give you advice if you phone me on my cellphone 0823951224
Tax:
A Value Added Tax ( VAT ) is applied to all purchases. As a foreign visitor you can claim back tax on your purchases by providing the tax invoices for inspection at the Waterfront or the airport. Before departing from the airport all the goods you have purchased together with the tax invoices or certificate received at the Waterfront must be declared at the VAT counter in International Departures. Total purchases must be more than R250 to qualify. At the moment VAT is 14%
Shopping and Business Hours:
Most shops in the city are open from 9h00 to 17h00 or 17h30 weekdays and 9h00 to 12h00 Saturdays. The Waterfront and other shopping malls have extended hours.
Wining and Dining:
South Africa is acclaimed for its top quality fresh produce and culinary excellence. In most cities and towns, menu's feature French, Italian, Japanese, Chinese, Greek, Mexican, Cape Malay and every other type of cuisine imaginable. the standard ranges from the unexceptional to the sublime. this country is also internationally renowned for its fine wines. Many estates have been producing world-class wines for years - and they're improving all the time. Most unlicensed restaurants invite patrons to bring their own wine. Restaurant guides are available from publicity associations in major cities. Capetonians normally lunch from 12h30 - 14h00 and dine from about 7h30 - 10h00.
Money:
The currency is South African Rand expressed with an R e.g R100 is One Hundred Rand. Foreign exchange facilities are available throughout the city, the Waterfront, most shopping malls and at banks in country towns. ATM's will accept many international bank and credit cards.Major credit cards are accepted throughout South Africa at most outlets the exception being markets and some private traders.
Currency and Foreign Exchange:
The currency is Rands and Cents. One Rand ( R ) is equal to 100 cents ( c ).Notes are issued in the following denominations: R200, R100, R50, R20 and R10. Coins: R5, R2, R1, 50c, 20c, 10c, 5c, 2c and 1c. Foreign currency may be exchanged at any commercial bank, American Express, Thomas Cook, Rennies Foreign Exchange or Dinners Club International office or Bureaux de Change can be found in the larger centres. Credit cards: South Africa has a modern banking & commercial system and most shops & hotels will accept credit cards.
Banking Hours:
Most banks are open between 09:00 and 15:00 daily, and Saturdays between 08:30 and 11:00, although some are open from 08:30 to 16:30. Small town branches often close between 13:00 and 14:00.
Postal Facilities:
The hours of business are generally from 08:30 to 16:30 on weekends from 08:00 to 12:00 on Saturdays. Many smaller Post Offices close between 13:00 and 14:00. Mail may be addressed " Poste Restante" to any Post Office. Phonograms may be phoned in on 1028 or sent from any post office. Telephones are fully automatic with direct dialing to most countries.
Electrical Appliances:
South Africa operates a 220-240 Volt a/c system. If you use 110 Volt DC you will need a converter. Our plugs are 3 pin round and adaptors are available in most hotels, electrical stores, and airport stores.
Eating Out:
Cape Town is a very cosmopolitan city and visitors are spoilt for choice. It's not a matter of deciding what to eat (we have it all) but which restaurant to go to. Do try some of our African cuisine as well as Cape Malay dishes unique to this area.
Capetonians normally lunch from 12h30 - 14h00 and dine from about 7h30 - 10h00.
Lanuage:
We have 11 official languages in South Africa but English is spoken or understood throughout the country. If you are Dutch or Flemish have fun trying to speak Afrikaans!
Taxis:
Taxis come in two types - the metered variety which is normally a sedan car with an identifying light box on its roof. Their rates are about R8-00 per Km and they can be found in Taxi ranks or called by phone. The other variety is a mini-bus which travels a set route for a set fee, normally crowded, sometimes unsafe and in my opinion only for the adventurous tourist. They can be hailed on their route.
Accommodation:
There is an abundance of accommodation in Cape Town ranging from hotels that have been voted the best in the world, Guest houses, Bed and Breakfasts and Backpackers lodges. In the country area the same applies with the accent on Guest houses. During the peak season ( November to February ) finding suitable accommodation can be a problem so it is advisable to book well in advance. I am able to recommend, assist and make reservations for you if you wish.
Rules of the Road:
An excellent road network links the largest metropolitan areas with the smallest villages. South Africa drives on the left. The speed limit in urban areas is usually 60 km per hour, and on freeways 120 km per hour unless otherwise indicated. Wearing seat belts is compulsory; driving under the influence of alcohol is a serious offence and traffic laws are strictly enforced.
A valid driver's licence, provided the photograph is an integral part of the document, and provided it is printed in English, is accepted. If your licence does not comply with these requirements, you should obtain an International Driving Permit before your departure for South Africa.
Religions:
Most denominations are represented. Churches, Mosques, Temples and Synagogues are located in most major cities.
