Traveling Through South Africa
South Africa: a dreamland full of wildlife safaris, mile-long beaches, deserts, vineyards, and a magnificent climate year-round. Despite suffering under apartheid for many years, South Africa is now a cultural melting pot: indigenous and European cultures both have a hand in shaping South African society. Driving through South Africa is always an adventure: one moment you may be in a European-style town, the next moment an African town, the next an Indian town. (Yes, even Indian culture has played a large part in South African society!)
Best time to visit South Africa: Normally, anybody can visit South Africa year round, as the climate is pleasant and warm. The climate is exactly the opposite of the climate in North America or Europe. South Africa enjoys winter during the month of July.
If what you're after is a safari, the winter season of June to September is the best time to go. This being the dry season, the animals flock to predictable watering holes and can be observed at a close range from reservations. The days are quite warm, while the nights are somewhat chill. The summers on the eastern coast also tend to the warmer side, with the Indian ocean helping give a steamy temperature all the year. Their summer, December to mid-March, can often give uncomfortably high temperatures, mitigated somewhat by the inland lack of humidity. The eastern coast's summers can be hot, but autumn, by contrast, is usually very enjoyably mild with just a little rainfall.
Spring's heavier rainfall combined with softer temperatures makes for a great time for any fans of blossoms. Most South Africans consider Christmas to be the primary time of vacation and travel. During Christmas, as well as Easter, tourism spots are congested and prices take a steep hike upwards due to the increase in demand. But fortunately, outside of this season, you can count on prices being much lower.
Travel in a group rather than alone, especially in Johannesburg, Pretoria, and all shopping centers, and leave all cash and valuables in the hotel safe. Also remember to stop at Reception and inquire about security before you leave the hotel for the day, and always follow their advice. Take taxis at night and early in the morning rather than walk, and make sure to drive with your doors locked and windows rolled up if you've rented a car. Especially in Johannesburg, there is some danger that you may be attacked while waiting at a red light. If someone attempts this, drive away immediately.
While special inoculations aren't necessary, if you're visiting during the rainier season, you should acquire a malaria shot. Don't underestimate the mosquitoes; pack long-sleeved shirts and mosquito nets. The hospitals are quite competent and the pharmacies have a wide variety of medicines, but you must pay for these things locally, so you'll want to get health insurance before you travel.
Customs Allowances: Each person may bring a liter of liquor, two liters of wine, 2 packs of cigarettes and 250 grams of tobacco as well as 50ml of perfume. The unit of currency is the South African Rand. As exchange rates vary, you will need to check the rate when you are booking hotels or making travel arrangements. The major, international credit cards are accepted in all states. With your own credit card and pin number you can get cash at many cash machines problem-free. The FIFA Football World Cup takes place in South Africa in 2010.
Best time to visit South Africa: Normally, anybody can visit South Africa year round, as the climate is pleasant and warm. The climate is exactly the opposite of the climate in North America or Europe. South Africa enjoys winter during the month of July.
If what you're after is a safari, the winter season of June to September is the best time to go. This being the dry season, the animals flock to predictable watering holes and can be observed at a close range from reservations. The days are quite warm, while the nights are somewhat chill. The summers on the eastern coast also tend to the warmer side, with the Indian ocean helping give a steamy temperature all the year. Their summer, December to mid-March, can often give uncomfortably high temperatures, mitigated somewhat by the inland lack of humidity. The eastern coast's summers can be hot, but autumn, by contrast, is usually very enjoyably mild with just a little rainfall.
Spring's heavier rainfall combined with softer temperatures makes for a great time for any fans of blossoms. Most South Africans consider Christmas to be the primary time of vacation and travel. During Christmas, as well as Easter, tourism spots are congested and prices take a steep hike upwards due to the increase in demand. But fortunately, outside of this season, you can count on prices being much lower.
Travel in a group rather than alone, especially in Johannesburg, Pretoria, and all shopping centers, and leave all cash and valuables in the hotel safe. Also remember to stop at Reception and inquire about security before you leave the hotel for the day, and always follow their advice. Take taxis at night and early in the morning rather than walk, and make sure to drive with your doors locked and windows rolled up if you've rented a car. Especially in Johannesburg, there is some danger that you may be attacked while waiting at a red light. If someone attempts this, drive away immediately.
While special inoculations aren't necessary, if you're visiting during the rainier season, you should acquire a malaria shot. Don't underestimate the mosquitoes; pack long-sleeved shirts and mosquito nets. The hospitals are quite competent and the pharmacies have a wide variety of medicines, but you must pay for these things locally, so you'll want to get health insurance before you travel.
Customs Allowances: Each person may bring a liter of liquor, two liters of wine, 2 packs of cigarettes and 250 grams of tobacco as well as 50ml of perfume. The unit of currency is the South African Rand. As exchange rates vary, you will need to check the rate when you are booking hotels or making travel arrangements. The major, international credit cards are accepted in all states. With your own credit card and pin number you can get cash at many cash machines problem-free. The FIFA Football World Cup takes place in South Africa in 2010.
About the Author:
Graham McKenzie is the content syndication coordinator for a leading South African Flight Comparison portal, to book a flight, simply visit our website at: http://www.saflights.co.za
You like it? Share it!
posted by SolveItQuick at
12:36
0 Comments:
Post a Comment
<< Home