...More Helpfull hints for tourists
Religions
Most denominations are represented. Churches, mosques, temples and synagogues are located in most major cities. Consult your hotel reception desk.
Security
Crime is prevalent in the big cities. Don't walk in deserted areas alone at night and don't carry large sums of money or expensive cameras in city centers. Use the hotel safe deposit box for valuables. Police have advised visitors to take the following elementary precautions for their own safety.
Always consult your host/guide/hotel keeper before going exploring. Travel in company when you can.
Don't walk alone after dark in suspicious places like the Johannesburg CBD.
Don't wear jewelry or flaunt expensive cameras and high-tech equipment when sightseeing.
Be on the alert for petty thieves and pickpockets in busy places.
Drive with the car windows closed and doors locked at all times. You are at your most vulnerable at traffic lights and drive ways. Don't leave any valuable possessions visible inside the car. Rather lock it in the car trunk or take it out with you, so that criminals won't see there is something to steal.
If confronted by an armed assailant, don't try to be a hero. Your life is worth more that your possessions.
Remember that the vast majority of South Africans are well disposed and friendly, and will be happy to help you. J
Shopping
Local manufacturers set a high premium on workmanship, and at the current Rand value visitors can afford to be extravagant. Shopping hours are generally from 08:00 to 17:00 on weekdays, and from 08:00 to 13:00 on Saturdays. Some shops in the major cities are also open on Sundays.
Taxis
Telephone for a taxi or go to a local taxi rank, as local taxis don't cruise. If the taxi don't have a meter, negotiate a fare in advance. Beware of sharp operators. Visitors should note that cab standards do not always conform to international standards, and car hire is a much better alternative.
Telephones
A direct dialing service connects all centers except for the villages in more remote rural areas. The international telephone service links South Africa with countries around the world. Calls from hotels usually carry a surcharge and most hotels are also equipped with fax machines. The international dialing code for dialing South Africa is 27 followed by the area code (minus the first zero) and the subscriber's number. Telephone cards can be used at any "green" public phones, and these phone cards are available in post offices and airports.
Time Differences
Throughout the year Standard Time in South Africa is two (2) hours ahead of Greenwich Mean Time, one hour ahead of Central European Winter Time, and seven hours ahead of Eastern Standard Winter Time in the US.
Tipping
In restaurants, 10% of the bill usually applies, depending on the standard of service received. Restaurants do not usually include the tip in the bill. Taxi drivers should also receive 10% of the amount charged.
Train Travel
Good trains, with first and second class sleeping accommodation, link South Africa's major cities. The internationally famous five-star blue train runs between Pretoria and Cape Town with stops in Johannesburg.
VAT (Value Added Tax)
Currently set at 14%, VAT is included in the price of most goods and services. Foreign visitors are not exempt from paying tax on purchased goods. They may however, claim back VAT paid on items taken out of the country when the value exceeds R250. The refund may be claimed at airport departures, various harbours, and at customs offices. The following documentation is required: original tax invoice, VAT refund control sheet and foreign passport.
Visas
Visitors need a valid passport. Visa requirements have recently been relaxed and visas are not so generally required. Visitors should also have a return a ticket and show that they are able to sustain themselves there
Water
Tap water is very safe to drink throughout South Africa and it's usualy not necessary to buy fresh water.
Wining and Dining
South Africa is acclaimed for its quality fresh produce and culinary excellence. In the main cities, menus feature Italian, French, Japanese, Chinese, Greek, Mexican, Cape Malay. And many other types of cuisine. The standard ranges from the excellent to the sublime. The country is also internationally renowned for its fine wines. Restaurant guides are available from the publicity associations in major cities.
