What do I need to know before taking a trip to South Africa for the first time?

Answer 1

Do not get involved with political discussions with the locals, SA is going through a transition period and a lot of things are still sensitive.
Remember that people drive on the left-hand side of the road.
Ask your doctor if you need any inoculations.
Do not have unprotected sex, HIV and AIDS is a big problem in SA.
Public transport is not very reliable, so be prepared to rent a car, but the roads and ifrastructure is very good.
Take extra care of personal safety, crime is a problem.
If you go for a short period of time then it is maybe a good idea to plan an itinerary or limit your visit to a select few places, the country is relatively big and there is so much to see and do.
Most locals speak English, although their accent might be a bit unfamiliar.
A "braai" is a barbecue and if invited, go. South Africans makes arguably the best barbecues in the world.
South Africans are passionate about sport.
Cell phone coverage is good.
You will be able to use your credit card almost everywhere.
Tipping is around 10% of your bill in restaurants.Other places it is up to you.
Enjoy your trip.

Answer 2

I live in Richards Bay on the East Coast of SA and we took a road trip to Capetown 3 years ago (1900 km). It was extremely exhausting as we decided to do the whole 1900km in one go. We were 3 drivers and did shifts of about 2-3 hours each. Our planned time of departure was to be at 5 a.m. the morning, but on the night before the planned departure no one could sleep out of excitement and we hit the road at 11 pm 6 hours before schedule. The trip through Kwazulu Natal hap pend during the night hours so basically the stars were the only piece of scenery we got to appreciate. We reached Bloemfontein in the morning hours (about 10 am) and headed onwards towards Colesberg. I missed most of the Karoo scenery since I was fast asleep due to a long driving shift. I woke however about 30 km from Uniondale and ironically the Anton Goosen song about the ghost of uniondale were playing on the radio. I remember wishing that we went past there during the night. It was unfortunately a very uneventful part of the journey, since no ghost made it's appearance.

Answer 3

Darth Vadar pretty much said it all......

I would like to add that under no circumstances get into a minibus taxi!!!!! Phone taxi company that sends a car & a driver. Also, most South Africans are friendly & willing to help, but just watch out for the chancers. And keep an eye on your stuff all the time, don't leave your bag unattended for a second.

Other than that, have a great time! Hope you enjoy it - SA is a beautiful country with a lot to offer, despite it's problems.

Answer 4

Cool!!! I've never been there, but I went to school with a friend from there, when I lived in Washington state. I'm a fan of "Lonely planet" here are some links that might help....

http://www.lonelyplanet.com/worldguide/destinations/africa/south-africa/

http://www.southafrica.net/

Answer 5

Where are you going in South Africa? If you are going to J'Burg, it is just like an American city... McDonald's, KFC and all. My biggest thing was remembering that the flow of traffic is different.... I almost got run down a few times before really getting it... Finally, if you like meat Carnivore restaurant is a must. and for tours Lonely Planet is great for tours....

Answer 6

Darth got most of it, i can only add that you should be extra careful on our roads. Our roads are probably the most dangerous in the world; theres next to no respect for rules, signs & road markings, indication and other drivers.

But, relax! Theres not much else in this country as bad as that!
Have a blast!

Edt: I just wanna add: find some of our local bands! Look out for Parlotones, Prime Circle, Niemand, Springbok Nude Girls, Freshlyground, Jamali & more!

Answer 7

1) Culture- learn about their culture from the correct sources

2) Language- It would be great if you can get someone to accompany you as a tour guide

3) Religion- learn about their believes so you would not do or say any thing offensive

4) Clothes- Study their forecast and lands’ geography to find what you may need to take with you.

5) Vaccinations- Some African counties have endemics and you may need to get some vaccinations before you travel

6) Look at pictures of the country you intend to visit so you wont be surprised of what you might see, and don’t forget your camera to show us some pictures when you come back.

Answer 8

You are going for holiday or work?

1) VERY IMPT ! their culture & customs. (always do alittle research on this wherever you need to travel, so that you wouldn't offend anybody unknowingly)
2) how are their things priced (you need to estimate the amt of $$ you need to bring)
3) check their level of corruption in the country and bring xtra $$ ($$ makes the world go round, this is esp impt if you are going for business purposes)
4) learn the few impt words in their language (ie. thank you/ please/where, etc)
5) research on some of the main places of interests (if you are going for holiday)

i think the above are the more impt ones.
Enjoy ! (^.^)

Answer 9

I think evryone else covered it pretty well but just one more thing. When you start to think the locals are actually quite nice or helpfull turn around and run, hez either trying to rob you or rape you.
Seriously i know, iv lived here my whole life

Answer 10

Be prepared to be forever changed. If you return and want to help some of the needy children you will see, visit www.thepencilproject.com

Be safe and enjoy yourself. It's breathtaking...