Thanks to the global financial situation, South Africa is one of the most affordable destinations to visit. Today’s Exchange rate is US$1 = ZAR9.8. You will get a lot for your money here. But do take time and go to a local grocery shop on your first day. I have taken a few things from the Pick ‘n Pay online shopping list to give you an idea of what things cost. Pick ‘n Pay is a good quality food market. Some outlets have clothing and home wear as well as toys and outdoor and DIY products.
1 Kg Steak – R70 (you can pay up to R100 for a steak in a restaurant – and if you stay at an expensive hotel you will pay even R300!!)
Cigarettes (Camel 20s) – R20.80
Jumbo eggs (6) – R8.99
1 Kg Apples – R12.99
Even though South African eat relatively healthy, we are slowly but surely following the USA to obesity. People prefer fast foods due to our hectic life styles. If you do visit South Africa, try our fresh foods, but if you do need some comfort from home, here is what you will pay:
Big Mac – R15.50
Coke – R4.29 (330 ml/can)
If you like a drink every now and again, local beers and wines are very well priced. But do look out for LOCAL beers and wines. You will pay a little more in bars, and a lot more in hotel bars. Have the locals tell you about bars in the vicinity!
Millar – R5.69 (330 ml/bottle)
Windhoek Lager (from Namibia but surely one of the best – R5.29 (340ml/bottle)
Jack Daniels – R149.99 (750 ml bottle)
You also need to shop around for accommodation. Don’t go to the very famous names like Hilton and Holiday Inn. Have a look at these websites:
http://www.threecities.co.za/
http://www.legacyhotels.co.za/NeedFlash.htm
http://www.premierhotels.co.za/
And if you budget is tight, search online for guesthouses. They are affordable and the food is always good.
It is rather safe to rent a car but be aware that we drive on the left side of the road; our speed limit is in kilometers and our taxis don’t follow the rules of the road. Also, don’t leave anything in your car. While you are driving, put handbags/cameras/laptops etc under you seat, or in the boot. “Smash and Grab” is very common at intersections.
You can enjoy loads of activities and most info is available online. You just need to know where to look!
We hope to see you here!
Resources:
https://www.pnponline.co.za/default.aspx
3 comments:
When travelers talk about S.A., they talk about safety. How safe is it?
Sorry for the late reply - South Africa closes down over December. Hard to beleive but nearly the whole country goes on holiday for almost a month:)
safety is a relative term. I say this because normally the tourist areas are okey. The usual safety tips apply (dont flash cash; try to carry one camera; dont leave stuff on a car seat even while driving; look around you for suspicious suspects etc) The real scary stuff happen when people are stupid. Dont go looking for trouble. Stay away from city centres especially after dark. Try to blend in (dont wear a safari outfit). Don't leave your stuff lying around. Even in your hotel; lock valuables away.
In my opinion, tourist sites are safe. Its when you live here that you may be a target. Owning an expensive car or house makes you a target.
I hope this helps a bit. Where are you from?
I'm in St. Louis, Missouri, in the United States
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