South Africa can be classified as a few parts.
The Veld—This is in the north and central parts. It is extremely dry in the winter (summer in the northern hemisphere) and very wet in the summer (winter in the northern hemisphere). It is mostly rural, but there are some urban centers such as Pretoria and Johannesburg. The people there are very conservative, and are mostly “do it yourselfers’. I suggest making friends there, because not many people will stop to help you there, because they have their own matters to worry about.
The eastern provinces—I don’t know much about this area, but from the car ride, it was beautiful. Kruger Park is located here, and if you can, go there for about 5–7 days. It is an amazing experience. Bring a camera. Don’t go during national holidays because it is usually packed then. It’s cheap for people who use American currency—120–240 Rand / night or 15 – 35 American dollars plus an entry and exit fee.
The cape and western provinces—This is the more touristy area. It is very urban, and there are beaches galore. It is very liberal and is more free to more possibilities. It is very partyish there.
The south—This is mainly farmland where tourists go. The Rhineland are here and the wine is amazing. I haven’t been to this area, but it was recommended.
If you are American, you are in a bit of a rut. South Africans don’t really like Americans, so put a Canadian flag on your bag. I’m a Canadian, and I pasted flags all over my stuff. There are many muggings of Americans in particular.
Urban areas can be dangerous, but as long as you don’t make a fool out of yourself or stand out too much, or flaunt your wealth, not much bad will happen. I went into a little tavern in downtown Pretoria where there were these huge bald bikers who were playing pool, and I’m really small and weak. I ordered a drink (really inexpensive beer, 3×40 oz for 30 Rand or 7 dollars) and challenged them at pool. They are really nice and we talked a lot about everyday things. Sometimes looks can be deceiving.
Moneywise—It is 7 Rand to the American dollar. Alcohol is EXTREMELY cheap in South Africa. Try it. Tipping isn’t required at some restaurants, but at petrol stations (gas stations), give them 5–10 Rand. Maid or bellhop gets 10–15 Rand.
Petrol—Everything is metric there. Petrol costs around 300 Rand for a full tank (Winter 2008).
South Africa has been prepping for 2010 for quite some time now. All the roads are being repaved and new buildings are being built, especially in rural areas. Go to the rural areas to experience some of the culture.
I hope this helped. I bought a great travel guide called Fodor’s See It South Africa. BUY THIS BOOK. It is amazing. It will teach you everything you have to know, and read it before you go. All of the information is extremely useful.
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