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5 Things You Should Know Before Traveling to South Africa

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South Africa is a beautiful place, from the beaches to the food and the people. There is so much to see and do, and you won’t want to miss anything. Stray from the beaten path to uncover amazing scenery and restaurants, local art and culture and amazing people and food. Before you start on your vacation, however, there are a few things you will need to keep in mind when traveling to such a unique and culturally diverse location.

5 Things You Should Know Before Traveling to South Africa

1 Be Mindful of the Beauty of Your Surroundings

South Africa is a beautiful country with lots to see and do, and most people are perfectly safe while visiting. As always, when traveling to a new destination, be mindful of what is going on around you. If you see a mob of people or an angry protest, it’s best just to stay out of the way.

It’s also a good idea to do a bit of research, so you know where you need to go, and how far you need to travel. If you wish to visit various small towns in South Africa without wastings days driving, consider flying between the counties. Researching on local carriers, like mango airlines, that can ferry you between cities quickly and easily is a good idea so you don’t miss a thing.

2. Become a Local

While in South Africa, you’re going to want to see and do what the locals are doing, they will have the best insight into which places are best to visit, and where to eat the best food. Find a coffee shop, sit down and listen to some of the conversations, see where everyone is going and go there. Trade in your camera and bring a small point and shoot to take amazing photos of your adventures.

3. Stay Connected

While in South Africa, it’s best if you allow yourself to stay connected to the rest of the world. Wifi is widely available and not expensive to use, you’re going to want your maps when you head off exploring! Unlock your mobile device and pay for wifi while you roam about. Turn on your notifications to ensure you are informed of anything happening in your surroundings, plus, it’s great to be able to have maps to navigate your journey.

4. Rent a Vehicle to Get Around

Rent a car to get around so you do not need to rely on public transportation or taxis. When going to the rental agency, ask for something local and compact, as a flashy convertible will set you apart as a tourist. It’s great to be able to have your own vehicle to get around and visit at your own pace, beaches, parks, and scenery is best enjoyed when you’re not rushing around. Before driving around, ensure you have brushed up on the local laws and customs so you don’t end up with a traffic offense.

5. Keep an Open Mind

South Africa is very different than the western world. While traveling about, keep an open mind about the local customs, people, and food. Take the time to go off the beaten path and explore your surroundings, try things you would never have the opportunity to try at home and most of all, have a fantastic time with amazing people and culture.

While traveling in South Africa, take a relaxed approach so you can enjoy the amazing beauty that is this country. You’re going to want to see the beaches and spend the day surfing like a local. Enjoy the amazing beauty of the scenery that surrounds you and spend the time taking in all there is to see. Get off the beaten path and check out some out-of-the-way coffee shops and galleries that won’t want to be missed.

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