South Africa / Practical Information
South Africa >> General - Fast facts - Practical Information - Health - Safety - South Africa IQ
Visas
Visitors from Western Europe (including the Netherlands) do not need a visa to enter South Africa. Up to 90 days you will be issued with a free entry permit on arrival instead. Visitors for Lesotho coming from Western Europe (including the Netherlands) are granted a free entry permit at the border. The standard permitted stay is two weeks, although if you ask for longer it’s often granted.
Time Differences
South Africa operates two hours ahead of Greenwich Mean Time throughout the year (GMT+2hours), making it an hour ahead of Central European Winter Time.
Electricity
South Africa's electricity supply: 220/230 volts AC 50 Hz
Most plugs have three round pins but some plugs with two smaller pins are also found on appliances.
Banks and Money
The currency unit is the Rand, denoted by the symbol R, with 100 cents making up one Rand. Foreign currency can be exchanged at local banks and Bureaux de Changes. Most major international credit cards such as American Express, Diners Club, MasterCard, Visa and their affiliates are widely accepted. Automatic teller machines (ATMs) are situated outside banks in most towns and cities and offer a 24-hour service.
Tipping
Waiters, hotel porters, stewards, chambermaids and tour guides should be tipped 10-15% according to their service. When leaving tips, make sure it goes to the intended person, as there is no guarantee that money collected in a kitty will be distributed fairly to everyone. Parking and petrol station attendants should be given whatever small change you have available. This is always appreciated, even though it may seem a small amount.
Driving In South Africa
Drive on the left and give way to traffic approaching from the right. The general speed limit is 120km/h on open roads and 60km/h in urban areas.
Student travellers
Anyone in full-time education is entitled to an International Student Identity Card (ISIC). These are issued by student travel offices and travel agencies across the world and offer special rates on all forms of transport and other concessions and services. Visit www.isic.org for up-to-date information on cards and local contact details.
For information on backpacker hostels visit www.hihostels.com and the South African Youth Hostel Association, www.hisa.org.za.
Based on:
- Lonely Planet: South Africa, Lesotho & Swaziland (2006)
- Footprint: South Africa (2006)
