General Info

CLIMATE - AVERAGES

Most of Southern & East Africa experiences summer rainfall (Nov to Feb), often in the form of spectacular electric thunderstorms. Days are usually sunny throughout the year, with low temperatures at night. The only exception is Cape Town, which has a Mediterranean climate (rainfall May - Sept).

Examples of South African cities:

CURRENCY

The monetary unit in South Africa is the South African Rand (R). Bank notes are R10, R20, R50, R100 & R200. USD is normally accepted or changeable in most African countries. Clients should avoid changing money except at recognized financial institutions.

FINANCIAL INSTITUTIONS

All international transactions can be performed in South African banks, distribute throughout the country. Banking times: Monday - Friday: 09h00 - 15h30 Saturday: 08h30 - 11h00 Automatic teller machines (ATM's) are located in most town & cities & offer 24 hour service. Commercial banking services at ieports are available two hours before & after arrival & departure times of international flights on a 24-hour basis. Exchange rates are almost always better at banks & bureaux-de-change, it is advisible to avoid changing money at hotels.

DRESS

Africans tend to dress casually for most occasions. Smart-casual is suitable for theatres & restaurants & warm clothes for game drives & cool evenings.

RESTAURANTS

There is a wonderful variety of food in Southern Afruica. International standard cuisine is served in most hotels, while smaller bistros are found throughout the sub-continent. Restaurants include French, Italian, Mexican, Indian, Thai, Chinese, Japanese, Eastern Europe, Seafood & Traditional South African. In many restaurants Halaal & Kosher foods are available on request.

TIPPING

This is standard practice in South Africa. A good guideline is a 10% gratuity depending on service & satisfaction.

SAFETY

Standard precautionsare the only necessities for an enjoyable & safe holiday for international tourists in Southern Africa. There is considerable unemployment & tourists are advised to be aware of the potensial threat posed by beggars, street children, etc. particularly in downtown areas after normal working hours.

VALUE-ADDED-TAX (VAT)

This applies in most countries (14% is added to the price in South Africa). South African VAT can be claimed back at the airport. Purchase value should be higher than R250. Requirements: your passport, the original tax invoice & the item purchased.

ELECTRICITY

The standard power source in South Africa is 200/230 volts AC. There are exceptions & it is advisable to purchase an adaptor or transformer for foreign appliances.