Owing to the disparate cultural backgrounds of the various peoples of the country, there is no uniform or coherent South African culture as such. South African artists of all population groups are active locally as well as overseas in all fields. The differences in cultural background between black and white are most marked in the artistic expressions of the various groups. The styles and traditions of whites are generally European in origin and those of the blacks, African. In music, literature, architecture, drama, fine and graphic arts many South Africans achieve success with the symbioses of European and African elements.

More than 75% of the South African population belongs to Christian churches. Other major religious groups are the Hindus, Muslims and Jews.

Major South African centers are linked by reliable air, rail and road transport services. Public transport services within towns and cities are irregular though. Taxis are extremely expensive and most South Africans therefore have to depend on their own means of transport.

South Africans drive on the left-hand side of the road. Generally the speed limits range from 60km/h in residential areas to a maximum of 120km/h on national highways. Pay attention to the signs in this regard.

Rental vehicles are available in all major South African Centres.

GENERAL INFORMATION

Climate averages

 Cape Town:
The weather in the Western Cape is typically made up of warm, dry summers and cool, wet winters.

Durban:
Enjoy a mostly subtropical & sunny climate all year round in this region with high humidity in summer.                                                                                                                                         

Johannesburg:
This region enjoys hot summers with occasional thunder showers in the afternoons and cold winters with plenty frost.                                                                                                                        

Currency

The monetary unit is the South African Rand ® and is divided into 100cents. Coins are issued in denominations of 1c, 2c, 5c, 10c, 20c, 50, R1, R2, & R5, while bank notes are R200, R100, R50, R20, R10.

Financial Institutions

All international transactions can be performed in South African banks. These are distributed throughout the country.

Banking times:   Monday – Friday                09h00 – 15h30
Saturday                          08h30 – 11h00
Automatic teller machines (ATM’s) are located in most towns and cities and offer 24-hour service. Commercial banking services at airports are available two hours before and after the respective arrival & departure times of international flights, on a 24-hour basis.
Exchange Rates are most always better at banks and bureau-de-change, and it is advisable to avoid changing money at hotels.

Dress

South Africans tend to dress casually for most occasions and smart-casual dress code is usually suitable for theatres and restaurants. The most comfortable clothing option would be light weight cotton clothing as well as suitable clothing for areas of rainfall. It is advisable to inquire prior to arrival on what dress is acceptable.

Restaurants

The range in gourmet varies greatly in South Africa. International standard cuisine is served in most hotels, while smaller bistros are found throughout the country – these include French, Italian, Mexican, Indian, Chinese and Japanese Restaurants as well as traditional South African Food. In many restaurants Halaal and Kosher foods are available on request.

Tipping

This is a standard practice in South Africa. A good guideline is a 10% gratuity depending on service and satisfaction. Generally all tips are welcomed and appreciated.

Safety

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

1. Value Added Tax (VAT)

A tax of 14% is added to the price of most items and services. VAT can be claimed back for items purchased with a value higher than R 250. This can be done at the airport on departure, various harbors and customs offices. Requirements: the original tax invoice, the VAT refund control sheet, your passport and the item purchased.

Electricity

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

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