A visit to South Africa is a dream come true for many people. However, when travelling to Mzansi, there are a few things you should be aware of in terms of housekeeping and other matters.
See Africa highlights the dos and don’ts when on a visit to South Africa.
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Please Pronounce Zebra Correctly
Locals have a lot of beef with the way the term “Zebra” is pronounced. Be careful when pronouncing it, because it’s likely to be corrected by a nature enthusiast.
It should be ‘Zee-bra’. It is a huge part of the culture visit to South Africa.
Enjoy Your Visit to South Africa. Photo/The World Pursuit
Plan Ahead For Your Trip
South Africa is a large country, and it’s not something that can be done on the spur of the moment. Especially if you’re going on a road trip, plan your vacation in advance.
There are many things that could go wrong if you plan your South African trip in a hurry.
Keep Your Expectations in Check
If you go to South Africa, don’t expect to see lions prowling the streets. Instead, go for a wildlife safari.
Ideally, national parks are the finest place to see animals, but there are exceptions. However, a visit to South Africa, especially to the parks gives you an opportune moment to enjoy wildlife views.
Be Aware of the Tip Culture
Please note that it is customary to leave a gratuity of at least 10% of the total bill. Factor this during your visit to South Africa.
Restaurants, cafes, and even bars are subject to this restriction. It’s also acceptable to leave a gratuity for salon services, car wash or any other.
It is not in any law of the land, but it is nearly a cultural thing.
If You’re Flashy, Take a Step Back
Make sure that you don’t show off your costly cameras or jewellery, and don’t leave any of your belongings unattended while you’re on the road. Don’t leave valuables on the seats of a rented automobile for anybody to view, even if it’s secured.
As is with any place in the world, thieves have a penchant for fine things. It doesn’t matter if you are a tourist or not; they will steal it from you nevertheless.
So, on your visit to South Africa, keep your flashy nature to yourself.
Wild Animals are Not Fed
A visit to South Africa means you get a chance to visit game reserves and national parks. You can’t miss a trip to a national park because a visit to South Africa is not complete without it.
Be aware that the animals you see are wild and should not be fed or otherwise interacted with. Regardless of how adorable or innocent they appear, always keep away from them.
Tip Fuel Attendants
A visit to Africa exposes you to
Drivers don’t fill their own tanks; instead, they pay a gasoline attendant to do it. These attendants will wash your windshield and assist you in finding your way about.
Make sure to leave a tip in the end.
Traffic is a Nightmare
Afrocentric time zones? It’s real, and it’s readily apparent when on a visit to South Africa.
Service delivery in Cape Town is notoriously delayed, despite the carefree driving style of its residents. It’s okay to let go and enjoy the journey.
Cape Town Traffic. Photo/News24
The Sun is Unbearable
Even for locals, the sun in South Africa can be brutal. Even if you’re not going to the beach or trekking the country’s gorgeous trails, make sure to pack sunscreen and a hat.
Visit as Many Places as Possible
Because of all the hoopla surrounding Cape Town and Johannesburg, it’s easy to get swept up in the excitement.
However, South Africa is home to a slew of magical places waiting to be discovered. And there is no better way to explore all this than during a visit to South Africa.
English is Widespread
The majority of the population in South Africa can communicate in English, making it a multicultural melting pot.
Even though it is one of the country’s 11 official languages, visitors shouldn’t encounter any difficulties communicating in it. With this, a visit to South Africa becomes so realistic for you.
