I'm thinking about taking a vacation there. Is it safe for white Americans since there are so many whites there?
2007-01-20 14:59:48 · 20 answers · asked by Tim 1 in Travel ➔ Africa & Middle East ➔ South Africa
Of course it is man! Every place has it's dangers and it does not mean you will be exposed to them! South Africa is a great country and I love it here! I have been living here for the full 21 years of my life and I have not yet once even thought of living somewhere else! I am currently working in the South African Police Service and I have seen what the crime is like, but not everyone is a victim and it is not something that a person should be scared of! What counts is that you always remain alert and aware. As far as being white, that is not a problem at all and there will be no more racial discrimination towards you anymore than in your own country! I hope you make the right decision and decide to visit this beautiful country! Be well bro! :-)
2007-01-21 18:24:42 · answer #1 · answered by Motti _Shish 6 · 0⤊ 1⤋
Hi Tim.
South Africa is as safe as you make it. If you are careless, the chances of something crime related happening to you are increased. Use common sense when traveling. The fact that you are American has no significant impact on your travels to South Africa. Many call South Africa "the world in one country". You will find people from Europe, Asia, Australia, New Zea land, the far East, middle East and yes, many Americans, not only from the U.S, but from Canada, Mexico, Peru, Chile, Brazil, just to name a few.
I assure you, if you think safe, you´ll be safe....
Please go to South Africa, you´ll have the time of your life. Guaranteed!!!!
And "Alf" my boy. You are really being annoying with your stupid cracks at South Africa. Have you ever been there? I suppose not? Try keeping your mind occupied with something more productive. Instead of hi-lighting and criticizing the problems in S.A, why not think of solutions?
2007-01-21 05:38:27 · answer #2 · answered by Gouwsie 1 · 2⤊ 0⤋
Just like anywhere in the world you have to be prudent. You wouldn't go walking around some places in the US at night or leave your car doors unlocked in some neighborhoods so this is no different. Don't let some of these people fool you, South Africa is not a picnic by any means but the fact that you are an "American" has no bearing at all. If you make intelligent decisions and just be aware of your surroundings I am sure you will be fine.
2007-01-20 15:55:22 · answer #3 · answered by Thirst Quencher 3 · 2⤊ 0⤋
Trust me, I have visited for the 14th time this February. The crime rate is appalling. I ride a pedal cycle around a circuit of about 8 miles from my relatives. I do not carry any money with me when I do so. If I were to get into trouble, they can have the bike ! I do not wear my watch etc. You are talking about a whole different ball game. You will have your belongings on your back and regardless of any past experience, you cannot argue with a hand gun or rifle, if one is pointed at you, there is every chance it will be used. There are other countries in the South of Africa which are a whole lot safer, in fact all of them except Zimbabwe.
2016-05-24 03:19:41 · answer #4 · answered by ? 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Papeverso your ignorance astounds me, South Africa is as safe as you make it, i have traveled in many countries where there is a alert to all American travelers not to go and yet had no problems, just be care full and avoid red light districts and big city centers at night, that goes for any country.
2007-01-21 13:50:44 · answer #5 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
South Africa has great people and emaculate scenery.
Yes, statistics show that unfortunately SA has the highest rates of violent crime in the world by quite a margin. If I deny that I would be lying to you. And being white will save your skin (no pun intended) no more than being black will. Nonetheless, if you catch local tips on safety and use them, it should be a great travel experience.
Do visit SA and enjoy!
2007-01-22 01:50:03 · answer #6 · answered by Vango 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Yes, it is safe for travelers. I've been to most main tourist attractions in Cape Town and you feel really safe. The fact that you're white doesn't mean anything with regard to crime really.
2007-01-20 16:59:29 · answer #7 · answered by Malan 3 · 2⤊ 0⤋
Here is a pretty good site with a lot of information about staying safe in South Africa.
http://gosouthamerica.about.com/od/safetyissues/a/Safetravel.htm
2007-01-20 15:09:58 · answer #8 · answered by Baer B 1 · 0⤊ 0⤋
It is never safe enough for Americans to travel anywhere outside paradise.
2007-01-22 11:25:58 · answer #9 · answered by jbmmer 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
I dont understand why you would think its unsafe as there are alot of whites here, yes there are whites, coloureds and blacks here, some indians, asians , europeans.
Just rent a car, get a road map book and get on with it, and if you spot a southafrican white, you roll down your window and shout, hoesit my maat!
2007-01-22 22:33:23 · answer #10 · answered by cindz_jess 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋