Are the rural areas of South Africa safe to be traveled?

Generally yes, but make sure you go with a tour guide or a local. If really want go on your own, make sure you know exactly where you are going and get as much information as you can about that area beforehand.

Most locals are always helpful, so don’t hesitate and ask them.

How can I protect my house in South Africa?

If you own a house in South Africa, local security services are your best choice. Ask locals which one is the best in your area, and find out about neighbourhood crime watch in the area.

Local security services offer a range of skills from digital security equipment to installing an alarm system in your house. Fences and burglar bars in front of the windows are normally included when buying a house.

Other than that, a big dog and a sign on the front porch saying “Beware of the dog” will definitely leave an effect on potential burglars.

Is it safe to pay with credit card in South Africa?

Yes, it is safe. There is of course fraud like in every other country in the world. Though, you will find that they check your ID and signature more strictly in South Africa than any other European countries.

There is no problem whatsoever paying with your credit card for your new pair of shoes or the restaurant bill.

How can I protect myself in South Africa?

The best you can do to protect yourself is to stay out of trouble. You do that best by using common sense and exercising basic safety precautions.

Avoid isolated areas, especially at night. Don’t go out alone if you don’t have to. When you are alone or in pairs, avoid groups of young men, especially in the dark, just change the side of the road as subtly as you can. If you walk alone in the dark think of your destination and getting there quickly, preferably in a car.

If ever anybody tries to mug you, let them! Give them everything and try to stay calm. Credit cards, ID and phones can be replaced, your life cannot.

What about big city safety (e.g. Cape Town and Johannesburg)?

Big cities tend to have more police presence but also can, as with most worldwide big cities attract more of the criminals.

Common sense and general safety precautions should always apply such as avoiding unfamiliar places at night or walking alone, using a car, meter taxi or public transport when possible.

Always try to avoid isolated areas and empty streets, public places are always more safe.

What is the ‘Black Economic Empowerment’?

The “Black Economic Empowerment” or BEE is a new governmental policy to create awareness of the discrepancies in employment between races and to allow employment opportunities for formerly underprivileged South Africans. BEE measures were first implemented in 2003.

Broad-Based Black Economic Empowerment (B-BBEE) was introduced in 2007 to create equal work opportunities for the entire black population, namely Africans, Coloureds, Indians, and South African Chinese.

B-BBEE aims to strengthen economic growth and broaden the employment base in South Africa. To find out more information visithttps://www.thedti.gov.za/economic_empowerment/bee.jsp