Health :
Water: Tap water is generally safe to drink, but it is always a good idea to boil it first. Bottled water is available.
Malaria:
South Africa is MALARIA FREE except for the extreme northern areas where precautions must be taken - see the map below.
For more information about this disease, its prevention and treatment follow this link http://www.doh.gov.za/issues/malaria-f.html
Food: Supermarkets, reputable food stores of all descriptions, delicatessens, restaurants and fast food outlets abound.
Traditional African food is often sold by street vendors and need to be treated with circumspection.
Medical Care: Every city and town has a clinic or HOSPITAL, either government or private.
Medical practitioners and Pharmacies (drug stores) are available throughout the country
Ambulance and emergency services are available country wide. Mobile phone service providers are a good source of information in this regard.
ENSURE THAT YOU HAVE ADEQUATE MEDICAL INSURANCE BEFORE LEAVING ON YOUR TRIP!
and from a purely pragmatic point of view.. keep the policy details to hand at all times
Safety:
The South African Police Service (SAPS) is at your service. The general emergency telephone number is 10111
You are as safe here as anywhere else in the world! Do not make yourself a target by carrying expensive jewellery,
cameras and equipment etc. Be aware of your surroundings and stay away from dubious places. Ask the locals, a travel agent,
the local Tourist Information Bureau or the SAPS before visiting an area.
Transport:
South Africa has an extensive road, rail and air transport system on a par with the best in the world.
An underground rail system and fast service bus system is currently being developed and should be in operation in time for the 2010 FIFA WORLD CUP
Detailed maps are available from most bookstores and petrol (gas) stations.
Public Transport:
Rail: There is both a mainline and Metro system.
When using the mainline (inter-city) trains it is advisable to book first class as the rolling stock is often antiquated and not well maintained.
There are companies offering FIVE STAR quality such as the world famous 'Blue Train'.
The Metro system is unfortunately quite risky and not reliable.
Road: Public road transport is with the exception of a small number of specialised companies of a low standard. Consult a travel agency in this regard.
A prolific Minibus TAXI service is in operation mainly for commuters. This is not recommended for the tourist. Consult a travel agent
` or enquire at the local Tourist Information Bureau for a list of reputable operators.
Air: Besides the national carrier, South Africa boasts the services of a number of low cost airlines which very effectively service the main cities
and most important tourist regions and towns. Consult a travel agent or use an internet cafe or Wi Fi hotspot or simply visit the local airport.
Languages:
South Africa has ELEVEN OFFICIAL LANGUAGES.
English is however the lingua franca that will be understood almost everywhere and by everyone.
Business Hours:
Office and shop hours are usually 08:00 - 13:00 and 14:00 - 16:30 Mondays to Fridays.
Weekends 09:00 - 13;00 is the rule of thumb although some malls will stay open until evening (18:00)
Bank hours are usually 09:00 - 16:00 weekdays and 08:30 - 11:00 on Saturdays.
Post Office 08:30 - 16:00 weekdays and 08:30 - 13:00 on Saturdays. This may vary from place to place.
Time Zone:
South Africa is in the time zone GMT (=UTC) + 2 hours.
Public Holidays:
New Year's Day 1 January National Women's Day 9 August
Human Rights Day 21 March Heritage Day 24 September
Good Friday 10 april Day of Reconciliation 16 December
Family Day 13 April Christmas Day 25 December
Freedom Day 27 April Day of Goodwill 26 December
Workers Day 1 May
Youth Day 16 June