Travel tips for South Africa

Tax
Value-added-tax (VAT) of 14% is charged on most items. Refunds are available on bought items exceeding ZAR 250.00 provided receipts are produced. It is advisable keep these purchases in your hand luggage.

Business Hours
Banking hours: 09h00-15h30, Mondays to Fridays; and Saturdays 08h30 -11h00.
Shopping hours: 08h30 - 17h00 weekdays. Most shopping complexes are open every day: 09h00 - 21h00. Supermarkets are open daily 08h30 - 17h00. In smaller towns and rural areas shops are usually closed on a Sunday, and hours may vary from province to province.

Telephones
Time GMT + 2
International Dialing Code: (00 27)
Area codes: Cape Town (021) - Johannesburg (011) - Durban (031) - Port Elizabeth (041)
Local information directory: 1023 - International Directory: 0903 -Collect Calls: 0023

Postal Services
Times: 08h30 - 16h30 Mondays to Fridays and 08h00 - 12h00 Saturdays. Stamps are sold at post offices, news agencies and hotel reception.

Language
There are 11 official languages. English is the most commonly used and is spoken in most cities, towns and all tourist destinations.

Electricity
220/230 Volts AC 50 Hz. Plugs are three-or two-prong with round pins. International adapters are available at travel shops and selected hotels. US-made appliances will need a transformer.

Water and food
Tap water is safe to drink in urban areas. In hotels and restaurants the standards of hygiene and food preparation rate extremely high. Milk is pasteurised and dairy products are safe for consumption.

Photography
All camera, video & digital equipment, as well as developing can be found in all the major centres and select resorts in Southern Africa.

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