Climate:
As the country lies in the southern hemisphere, the seasons in South Africa are the reverse of those in the northern hemisphere. December and January are the main summer holiday months, and people flock to the beaches in droves. In May and June, Autumn brings warm days and cool nights. Autumn and Spring are the best seasons for hiking. From the beginning of July to the end of September, you can expect cold and rain in the Western Cape. Snow sometimes falls on the Cape mountains in winter.

Communication Services:
A direct dialling service connects all centres and the international telephone service links south Africa with countries around the world. Cellular phones can be hired on a daily, weekly or monthly basis. Internet access is available in all but the most remote areas and broadband (ADSL) is available in the major urban areas.

Credit Cards:
Major international credit cards such as American Express, Diners Club, MasterCard, Visa and their affiliates are accepted in South Africa

Currency:
The currency unit is the Rand, denoted by the symbol R1. R1 = 100 cents. Foreign currency can be exchanged at commercial banks, American Express and Rennies Travel. Notes issued R200, R100, R50, R20, R10; coins R5, R2, R1, 50c 20c, 10c and 5c. Currency exchange rates are available at banks and published daily in the press.

Electricity:
220/230 volts AC at 50 cycles per second. Three pronged plugs are universal, so take an adapter. Most hotel rooms have 110-volt outlets for electric shavers and small appliances.

Health Hazards:
The western and eastern Cape are free of both Malaria and Bilharzia (present in streams, rivers, lakes and dams in some of the northern and eastern parts of the country) although for visitors planning to venture further north we recommend preventative medication which is obtainable at all South African pharmacies. It's important to consult a pharmacist for advice on the best drug or drug combination you should take.

Sun Protection:
The South African sun is strong with a high ultraviolet rating, so screening products with sun protection factors of 15 and over are recommended.

Visas:
Passport holders from more than 80 countries, including the USA, Canada, Japan and the European Union countries can visit South Africa without visas. For further information contact your local office of the diplomatic or consular representative of the South African Government. If you intend travelling to South Africa's neighbouring countries and back into South Africa you are advised to apply for multiple entry visas. Tourists must satisfy immigration officers that they have the means to support themselves during their stay, and that they are in possession of return or onward air tickets.

A law has been passed stipulating that all visitors to South Africa are required to have a minimum of two blank pages in their passport to enable the entry visa to be issued. If there is insufficient space in the passport entry will be denied and the person is likely to be detained pending return to their country of origin.

Water:
In the major cities and towns and most game reserves, tap water is purified and 100% safe to drink.

Time Differences:
Throughout the year, Standard Time in South Africa is two hours ahead of Greenwich Mean time, one hour ahead of Central European Winter Time, and seven hours in advance of Eastern Standard Winter Time.

Immunisation:
People arriving in South Africa from a Yellow Fever zone, must have a valid international yellow fever inoculation certificate. Infants under the age of one year are exempt. Immunisation against cholera and smallpox is not required.

Languages:
South Africa currently has 11 official languages. English is spoken throughout the country. French, Italian and German are spoken by staff members in many of the larger hotels and shops that cater to the tourist markets.

Medical Services:
South Africa has no national health scheme. It's advisable to purchase travel insurance which covers medical expenses during the period of your stay.

Shopping:
South African manufacturers set a high premium on workmanship, and a favourable exchange rate against the major currencies means that you can afford to be a bit extravagant. Shopping hours are generally 08:00 to 17:00 on weekdays, and 08:00 to 13:00 on Saturdays. Many shops in cities and big shopping malls are open Sundays.

Driving:
An excellent road network links the largest metropolitan areas with the smallest villages. The speed limit in urban areas is usually 60 km per hour, and on freeways 120 km per hour unless otherwise indicated. Wearing seat belts is compulsory; driving under the influence of alcohol is a serious offence and traffic laws are strictly enforced. A valid driver's license, provided the photograph is an integral part of the document, and provided it is printed in English, is accepted. If your licence does not comply with these requirements, you should obtain an International Driving Permit before your departure for South Africa. Drive on the left and give way to traffic approaching from the right.

VAT (Value Added Tax):
Currently set at 14%, VAT is included in the marked/quoted price of most goods and services. Foreign visitors are not exempt from paying VAT on purchased goods. They may, however, claim back VAT paid on items taken out of the country when the total value exceeds R 250.00.

Traveller's Cheques:
Most international traveller's checks are accepted provided they are in an acceptable currency and may be cashed at most banks. Many hotels and shops also provide this service.

Health Requirements:
No Vaccinations are required for cholera, smallpox or malaria. If arriving from a yellow fever zone, you must have a valid international yellow fever inoculation certificate. Due to the threat of malaria contamination, prevention medication is necessary for the northern parts of South Africa and obtainable from all pharmacies in South Africa.

Reasons to meet in Cape Town:

1. Language: While French and German are becoming increasingly common with immigration from Europe and west and Central Africa, the business language of Cape Town and Western Cape is English
2. A centre for knowledge: Cape Town and Western Cape is an intellectual magnet, with four world class universities and other research institutions in fields as diverse as astronomy, science, medicine and social politics. It is also the legislative capital of South Africa. The destination is a fertile ground for intellectual dialogue and exchange of ideas
3. Easy access:There are a host of world-class multi-purpose venues to choose from, including the Cape Town International Convention Centre, an impressive, architecturally striking city landmark. The destination also has excellent support systems for hosting any event, from the largest convention to innovative themed events.
4. An excellent business infrastructure: Cape Town International Airport is served by 20 international airlines on a weekly basis, linking the destination to global hubs like Frankfurt, Amsterdam, Atlanta and London. On arrival, access to ground transport is simple and convenient with taxi and coaches the most obvious options. The airport is situated 20km from the city business hub; a 20min drive in non-peak traffic could easily become an hour in peak-hour.
5. Value for money:The destination is recognised internationally as one of the most affordable business and incentive destinations in the world.
6. Room for everyone:Cape Town and the Western Cape has an extensive selection of first class hotels that promise guests pleasurable experiences; from 5-star hotels to excellent bed and breakfast establishments. The region boasts more than 20 000 rooms.
7. Variety is the spice of life:Cape Town and the Western Cape is a cosmopolitan destination, where cultural diversity is welcomed. Immigration from Europe and Africa have lent the city in particular a welcome, exciting vibrancy, adding to its creativity. A wealth of artistic and musical talent, opera, ballet, and comedy are always on offer.
8. First class wining and dining:The region is one of the wine capitals of the world, and the renowned Cape Winelands is both within the city and on it’s doorstep. The destination’s many restaurants serve traditional or contemporary Cape and international cuisine.
9. The sheer beauty of it all:One of the reasons Africa gets under the skin. The region offers honestly unparalleled natural wonders, from the magnificent Table Mountain to pristine beaches, the big skies of semi-desert and most diverse of the world’s six botanical kingdoms.

FACTS AT YOUR FINGERTIPS

Population: Cape Town and Western Cape has a population of 4.6 million.

Water: Cape Town and Western Cape tap water is among the best in the world, with well-developed water supply infrastructure.

Climate: The Cape is a year-round destination with warm summers and mild to cool and often wet winters. The climate is described as Mediterranean, with summer temperatures ranging between 15 C and 27 C, while winters see the mercury dropping to a mild 7 C at night and rising to a comfortable 18 C by day.

Currency: The South African currency is the Rand, which is made up of 100 cents. Foreign currency can be exchanged at commercial banks and at various Bureaux de Change.

Taxes: Value Added Tax (VAT) of 14% is levied on purchases and services. Foreign visitors are able to reclaim their VAT on purchase if they have spent more than R250

South African time is set at GMT+2. There are no time-zone differences within South Africa and there is no daylight saving system in summer.

Driving: An international drivers license is requires when driving in South Africa. Driving is on the left-hand side of the road and the speed limit is calibrated in kilometres. Cash or petro; card are required to pay for fuel.

Visas: Visas are issued by South African missions abroad and must be affixed to the applicant’s passport before departing for South Africa. Visas are not issued on arrival at South African ports of entry. In order to gain a visa you are required to have two unused pages in your passport. www.home-affairs.gov.za

Customs: Personal effects (used) are admitted duty free. The allowance for visitors to South Africa is as follows:

1 litre of spirits
2 litres of wine
400 cigarettes
50 cigars
50 ml perfume
250 ml eau de toilette
Gifts and souvenirs to the value R3000



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