useful information...
Climate
Many call it 'Sunny South Africa', for good reason. Warm temperate conditions are typical of South Africa, making it a popular destination for sunshine-seekers.
South Africa is renowned for almost seven months of sunshine (give or take a few chilly spells). From May to August temperatures drop. However, April and May are generally the most temperate months.
The wide expanses of ocean on three sides of South Africa have a moderating influence on its climate.
The People
According to a statistics census taken in 2001 (Census ’01), South Africa’s population was recorded as 44,8 million people.
The results across the population groups were as follows:
African: 79,0%
White: 9,6%
Coloured: 8,9%
Indian/Asian: 2,5%
Diverse Cultures
The South African population consists of the following groups:
• The Nguni people (including the Zulu, Xhosa and Swazi), who account for two-thirds of the population.
• The Sotho-Tswana people, who include the Southern, Northern and Western Sotho (Tswana)
• The Tsonga
• The Venda
• Afrikaners (of Dutch origin)
• English
• Coloureds
• Indians
• Khoi and San people
• Other: the remainder consist of people who have immigrated to South Africa from the rest of Africa, Europe and Asia and who maintain a strong cultural identity.
Security
Although Southern Africa is a safe destination for international travellers, it is wise to take certain standard security precautions. No country can claim to be 100% safe. However, following basic advice can avoid most potential problems. It is advised that you carry a record of the numbers of your passport, airline tickets and travellers cheques. These should be kept in a safe place. Please note expensive jewellery should not be taken on safari.
Do not flash lots of money, an expensive camera or jewellery. Take note of onlookers and keep your possessions in sight at all times to avoid opportunistic theft. Make use of your hotel safety deposit box for expensive items. Never leave baggage or personal items unattended, especially at airports. We would not recommend wandering around the streets of Downtown after dark. The Waterfront however is quite safe after dark.
Credit Cards
Visa, American Express, Diners Club and MasterCard are accepted by most restaurants, stores, hotels, car rental firms and other points of sale and service. Proof of identity may be requested in some instances and it is therefore useful to carry a passport or some form of photo identification at all times.
Electricity
Voltage in South Africa is 230 to 240 volts, 50Hz. Normally you will need an adaptor at the hotels.
Souvenirs and VAT (Value Added Tax)
A range of African souvenirs from handicrafts to animal skins are available. As you would expect from a country rich in gold and diamonds there is an excellent selection of jewellery and the opportunity to watch goldsmiths in action. Golfing equipment, including clothing, is reasonably priced. Overseas visitors taking goods out of South Africa will be able to reclaim VAT, which they paid on those goods. When purchasing products, visitors should inform the shop attendant that they are visitors to South Africa and request a tax invoice. The shop’s VAT number must appear on this invoice. Upon checking in at the airport ready to depart from South Africa, visitors must approach the customs official who will compare their invoices with the goods purchased. Once the customs official has approved and stamped the invoiced, the VAT Reclaim Office will refund the appropriate amount. VAT Reclaim Offices are found at the airport in Cape Town and Johannesburg.
Tipping
It is customary to tip 10 to 15 % of the bill at hotels and restaurants and 10 % of the fare to taxi drivers.
Water
The tap water in South Africa is safe to drink. If you prefer, bottled water is available at the hotels or in shops.
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