South Africa: Frequently Asked Questions

We are often asked questions about South Africa. Here are some of the questions we are asked most often. 

Is it safe?
This is a question we are asked frequently. The news stories on South Africa unfortunately focus on the negative aspects of this stunning country. It is true that crime rates in South Africa are higher than other places, but these crimes rarely involve tourists. Much of the crime occurs in parts of the country that you are not likely to visit. As with any populous area, there will be opportunistic low level crime that with a few sensible precautions, shouldn’t affect you. Make sure you keep your phone and valuables hidden. Take a taxi back to your hotel at night - Uber is very easy to use in South Africa. Lock your doors whilst you drive in a car. Park in well lit public car parks with car park attendants. It is common to tip the attendants for looking after your car, so keep some small change accessible for this reason. As with any bustling city, awareness and preparation go a long way.

Is it family friendly?
Yes, yes and yes again! South Africa is incredibly welcoming to families and children. South Africa is a country rich in culture, heritage and experiences. Families can enjoy activities in South Africa that simply do not exist elsewhere in the world. From swimming with penguins, to taking a boat ride with hippos and learning to do a traditional Zulu dance, what is not to love?!

We have to highlight the wineries of South Africa. These are some of the most family friendly places you could wish to visit. That may come as a surprise! Whilst you enjoy wine and cheese tasting, your children can enjoy grape juice and chocolate tasting. Families are encouraged to travel by the winery tram in Franschoek - a fantastic way to visit multiple wineries in one day, without needing to think about transport options. Most wineries have family friendly restaurants, parks, play areas and different attractions to keep the children entertained. 

Is it expensive?
If you are travelling from the UK, South Africa is a great destination for making your money stretch a bit further. Avoid purchasing items that have been imported and stick to locally made and produced items- this is where the real value lies. Eating out is very affordable, and from street food markets to high end Michelin star restaurants, South Africa has an abundance of enticing food options to explore. In 2024 Cape Town was voted by Conde Nast as the World’s Best Food City. Affordable, award-winning food experiences - the gastronomy in South Africa is world-beating. 

How do I travel around the country? 

South Africa is five times as large as the UK. A country that size needs a well thought-out travel plan - that’s where we come in! If you want to experience a variety of the rich experiences that South Africa has to offer, knowing where to go, how to get there and tailoring your trip to make sure it is right for you, is essential. Internal flights are plentiful. Travel by rail is growing, but the rail network is not as expansive as in Europe. Car hire or taxis are an easy way to cover ground and as driving is also on the left, this makes the country very accessible to the UK traveller. Speak to us about your travel needs and we will ensure your personalised holiday is right for you.  

What language is spoken in South Africa?
There are 11 official languages in South Africa, plus sign language, but wherever you travel English will be spoken.

There are a few local phrases to learn. Here’s the Wine Travel Experts guide to some commonly used words:
Just now = A non-specific timeframe. 
Now now = Soon
NOW! = Immediately 
Lekker! = Good! 
Braai = is similar to a BBQ, but don’t tell a South African that it’s a BBQ! Braais are sociable gatherings around a fire (never a gas BBQ!) where delicious meats are cooked and served. 
Thongs or Plakkies  = Flip flops
Robots = Traffic lights
Circles = Roundabouts  

If you have any questions about South Africa, we really are the experts and are more than happy to talk to you about our favourite destination.

Get in touch with Wine Travel Experts today and spend time talking about this special country. 

Wine Travel Experts. Travel Beyond Expectation.