South Africa is an incredible country, with so much to offer and plenty to see and do it is no surprise it is such a popular holiday and traveller destination. A visit to the wonderful region is sure to be one you will never forget, but before you jet off on your adventures, there are a few things you should know. To make sure your trip to South Africa goes smoothly, read on for our top tips and expert advice:
1. Stay Safe And Be Sensible
One of the most common concerns that travellers to South Africa have is whether or not it is a safe place to visit. As long as you are sensible and stay well aware of your surroundings, you will be perfectly safe in South Africa. If you are exploring at night, particularly in Cape Town and Johannesburg, then always take an Uber instead of walking. If you are unsure about the safety of an area you are staying in, then be cautious and ask a local if the area is safe before heading out alone.
2. Know Your Tipping Etiquette
Every country has its own etiquette when it comes to tipping, and South Africa is no different. In restaurants, a tip of 10-15% is common practice, and at bars, it is custom to leave any small change from the bill. It is also common to leave a small tip to taxi drivers and hotel staff.
3. Drink The Tap Water
South Africa actually has some of the cleanest tap water across the globe. There is no need to purchase pricey bottles of water while you are away, instead just bring a reusable bottle and fill it up during your day.
4. Don’t Be Flashy
If you want to show off your new expensive camera or fancy jewellery, then South Africa is not the place for it. Keep it simple and don’t bring your finest things. If you are showing off flashy and expensive items, then expect to receive unwanted attention. If you are renting a car during your trip, then rent a basic car as car theft is unfortunately common across the country.
