 Security - Security is
often the main concern of people contemplating South Africa for
a holiday. The main problem areas, as with any country in the world,
are the big cities. Outside of these there is a vast, safe territory
to be explored. Yes common sense precautions have to be taken, as
you would in any holiday destination. The rewards of South Africa
far outweigh any risks.
Eating Out -
Eating out in South Africa is very good value with food to suit all
tastes. Cape Town and the coast are the places to sample the
delicacies of the sea. For those that appreciate wine, you will not
be disappointed. Most wines are good with the higher quality wines
rating amongst the best in the world.
The Garden Route
- Along the Garden Route you have everything, lovely beaches
and some ‘holiday’ towns such as Plettenberg or Knysna for the more
active water sports holiday and for children. Plettenburg is a
lovely but quieter town than Knysna with a fantastic bay. All
along this coast is very scenic and from August to November the
whales come to calve. Dolphins can be seen all year round.
Whale watching can be done by boat trip
or from the shore and at Plettenburg bay there is the
Lookout, a beachside  pub/restaurant with gorgeous
sunsets and views of the whales from the rooftop. For
those that like a challenging walk, a short trip round the bay to
the Robberg peninsula is a must. There are three levels of
difficulty, and time, from beginner for about an hour to more
challenging walks of about 2-3 hours. Along the way there is
outstanding scenery and a chance to see a colony of seals.
Inland of the Garden Route coast there are game
parks, ostrich farms, forest walks and not forgetting the wild
flowers which the garden route is named after. As everybody’s
taste varies, with your own car, there is the freedom to stop
wherever takes your fancy and explore. The sites inland are
generally only a couple of hours drive from the coast and the drive
from Cape Town to Port Elizabeth can be done casually in a week but
longer is recommended.
Wine - For any wine
buffs, the Cape wine region is not to be missed. There are the
Paarl, Stellensbosch and Franschoek  regions. All are within easy
reach of Cape Town so the option is to stay at a vineyard and drive
into Cape Town or vice versa. Franschoek is a must. An old town
nestled in a valley with a single route in and out. The valley home
of the Robertson and Bellingham vineyards plus many other smaller
but just as good vineyards. Most, if not all, do wine tasting on a
drop-in basis but some do need to be pre-booked. There are also a
couple of very good restaurants in Franschoek, so after a hard days
wine tasting what better than a relaxed evening meal with more local
wine.
Safari - Think of South Africa
and you'll no doubt think about a safari and seeing the Big Five
lion, leopard, buffalo, elephant and rhinoceros.There are many
National Parks and Nature Reserves in South Africa with a wide range
of animal life - both big and small. The Addo Elephant Park and the
Tsitsikamma National Park are located on the
beautiful Garden Route.
Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden in Cape
Town is world-renowned for the beauty and diversity of the flora it
displays and for its magnificent setting against the eastern slopes
of Table Mountain and there are many more botanical gardens to
explore.
 Sport - From cricket to diving you'll find
a whole host of sports activities available in the sport mad country
of South Africa. Whether you want to join in or are just a spectator
there really is something for everyone. South Africa is famous for
its walking trails or try scuba diving in some of the most popular
diving spots in the world. Choose from rugby, football, polo or
wander the trails on horseback. South Africa is a country to be
enjoyed in the outdoors.
Driving - Car Hire is cheaper if
you book if booked before you arrive in South Africa. Petrol is
still reasonably priced and most garages offer personal rather than
self-service.
Tips - Tipping is expected -
around 10 to 15% is acceptable. | |