In spite of some media reports to the contrary, Cape Town is as safe as any other major world city. Logical thinking and avoidance of moving in dubvious areas should keep you safe from harm. Our families have lived here all their lives and have never experienced anything bad. South Africa is a beautiful country and many people just like you live here, so it is not so bad. Don’t let crime spoil your vacation, but don’t let negligence ruin it. Stay alert and be aware. If you take care, you should enjoy your holiday with no problems. For more advice ask your concierge or tour guide.

  



 

 

 

  
   

The local currency in South Africa is the RAND. Prices are quoted as an example - R1000.00 (one thousand rands).

Facilities to change currency are available throughout the city including shopping malls and banks.

Most major credit cards are acceptable and there is a good network of ATM’s 		 
         
 

Medical facilities are of an exceptionally high standard at any private hospital. Private insurance cover should be obtained prior to traveling.

Pharmaceuticals are readily available. Both local and overseas brands. These are available at pharmacies throughout the country. You do not need to bring your own supply of non scheduled medicines.

South Africa is one of the few countries in the world where it is safe to drink tap water, however mineral water, both sparkling and still is available.

Malaria is not a problem in the Western and Eastern Cape. If you are traveling to other part of the country, check with your health authorities. 		   
 














 		  

A value added tax which is currently applied at 14% to all purchases. This tax is refundable to foreign visitors provided that your invoices are in excess of R250.00 . This is claimable by producing your invoices as well as your purchases at the airport prior to departure. 		 
 

It is customary to tip caddies, taxi drivers, waiters and people employed in mast service industries. Tips are seldom included in the price in South Africa.
An accepted average is between 10% to 15%.
Porters in hotels and airports receive between R5 to R10 per piece of luggage.
 		  

 		  
 

 		  

South Africa operates on 220-240 volts 50 Hz alternating current. Our plugs are of the round three pin variety. If you use 110 volts, a converter is required. Adaptors are available in most hotels and electrical stores. 		 
 

Cape Town has a fine choice of restaurants. Being a cosmopolitan city the choices are unlimited. Amongst your choices are typical African cuisine as well. 		 

 		  
 



 






 

  

South Africa has 11 official languages. English is used predominantly, especially for business and is spoken throughout the country. 		 
 

Public telephones are well distributed throughout the city. They operate on coins or a phone card may be purchased. Telephones are fully automatic with direct dialing to most parts of the world. To phone internationally dial 00, which is the South African international access code, followed by the country code, area code of the city and then the required number. If you are to receive calls in South Africa the prefix is +27 followed by 21 for Cape Town.

Internet facilities and facsimile are available at many hotels as well as internet cafes spread throughout Cape Town
 		  

 		  
 
 

An abundance of top hotels are available. It is suggested that you book well in advance especially during peak season which is from November to April.