Travel in South Africa

Time:GMT +2.
Electricity:230 volts, 50Hz.
Language:South Africa has 11 official languages, including Afrikaans, English, Xhosa, Zulu and Sotho. English is widely spoken.
Health:Travellers arriving in South Africa from infected areas require a yellow fever vaccination certificate, otherwise no vaccinations are required. There is a high prevalence of HIV/AIDS. Medical facilities in South Africa are good, but medical insurance is strongly advised as private hospitals expect cash upfront and public hospitals are best avoided.
Tipping:Usually 10% if a service charge is not included in the bill.
Business:Business hours are generally 9am to 5pm Monday to Friday.
Communications:The international access code for South Africa is +27. The outgoing code is 00 followed by the relevant country code (e.g. 0044 for the United Kingdom). As of 8 January 2007, South Africa has changed to 10-digit dialling (so city codes must be included e.g. 021 for Cape Town) and international dialling has changed from 09 to 00. International phone cards cannot be used in South Africa. The country is served by three GSM mobile phone networks. Mobile service providers offer very cheap ‘pay-as-you-go’ Sim cards, which are a good option for visitors staying for some time. Internet cafes are widespread. Card and coin operated pay phones are also widespread.
Duty Free:Travellers to South Africa do not have to pay duty on 200 cigarettes, 50 cigars and 250g of tobacco; 2 litres wine and 1 litre spirits; perfume up to 50ml and 250ml eau de toilette; and other goods to the value of R3,000. Prohibited items include meat and dairy products, all medication except for personal consumption, flick knives, ammunition, explosives and pornography containing minors and bestiality.
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