What currency is used in South Africa?           

The rand is the currency of South Africa. It has the symbol "R" and is subdivided into 100 cents (c). Foreign currency can be exchanged at local banks and Bureaux de Changes. Most major international credit cards such as American Express, Diners Club, MasterCard, Visa and their affiliates are widely accepted.

Can you drink the tap water in South Africa?

Tap waterin SouthAfrica is perfectly drinkable in all urban areas, and most rural ones too.

What is the weather like in South Africa, especially around the time that the World Cup will take place?
The 2010 World Cup will be taking place during the Southern Hemisphere’s winter. Winters in Cape Town are mild and often wet while Johannesburg, Pretoria, Rustenburg, Polokwane and Nelspruit are usually dry during winter with mild to cold temperatures. Port Elizabeth has a pleasant year-round climate and June and July temperatures will be an ideal 19-20°C. Durban experiences mild to warm winters, perfect for playing soccer.

What is the time zone in South Africa?

South Africa operates two hours ahead of Greenwich Mean Time throughout the year, making it an hour ahead of Central European Winter Time, seven hours ahead of Eastern Standard Winter Time and seven hours behind Australian Central Time.

Do you need to take any vaccinations/medication before travelling to South Africa?

Visitors who are entering South Africa from a yellow fever zone must have a valid international yellow fever inoculation certificate. Only infants under the age of one year are exempt. Immunisation against cholera and small pox are not required.

Malaria is found only in the Lowveld of Mpumalanga and Limpopo and on the coast of KwaZulu-Natal. Malaria is not much of a risk in the winter months, however it would be best to take adequate precautions if you choose to visit these areas. The cheapest, safest and most effective measures against malaria are physical barriers such as a mosquito net, and the use of a good insect repellent. If you decide to take malaria prophylaxis, it is essential that you take the drugs according to the directions on the package insert.

What electricity outlets are used in most hotels and accommodation in South Africa?

The electricity supply is 220-240 volts, 50 Hz. The connection for appliances is a round three-pin plug. The wall plugs are not comparable with Europe, US and the East therefore you will find special adapters available in most airport duty free shops.

What is the official language of South Africa?

Actually there are 11 official languages spoken in South Africa. English is generally understood across the country, as it is the language of business, politics and the media. Other languages spoken in South Africa include Afrikaans, Ndebele, Xhosa, Zulu, North Sotho, Sotho, Tswana, Swati, Venda and Tsonga.

What kinds of food can you expect in South Africa?

As a multi-cultural country, South Africa offers many different traditional foods and drink. While there are some restaurants that specialize in traditional South African dishes, restaurants featuring other cuisines including Italian, Japanese, Thai, Chinese, Mexican, Indian etc. can be found in all of the major cities and many of the larger towns. In addition, there are also a large number of homegrown chain restaurants and international fast food franchises.

What can you expect when you are planning to drive in South Africa?

South Africans drive on the left side of the road and all cars are right-hand drive vehicles.  All road signs are in English and distances and speed limits are marked in Kilometres (km). Wearing seatbelts are compulsory and hands-free kits must be used when you are using a mobile phone while driving.

Any valid driver’s licence is accepted provided it bears the photograph and signature of the holder and is printed in English.