Rainbow Nation, South Africa is one of the most popular destinations across the globe, such that the country ranks high on the travel itinerary of thousands of holidaymakers from across the globe. A fair share of Britons also contributes to the huge tourist influx in the country, every year. But like other exotic hotspots across the globe, this nation also has its fair share of quirks in terms of local laws and social conventions. For first-time visitors, it is important to get well acquainted with certain tips concerning to flights, best time to visit, social conventions, health and local laws before booking air tickets for holidays to South Africa. Read on to know about some such tips.
Flights Tips
- Country's national carrier, South African Airways remains one of the preferred choices of airlines for scheduled direct/indirect flights to the country from the key airports in the UK. Being a destination based airline, it remains a popular choice for relatively cheap flights bound for South Africa.
- Other renowned airlines that rank high on the popularity polls amongst tickets seekers from the key airports in the UK are Emirates, Lufthansa, British Airways, Turkish Airlines, Egyptair, Virgin Atlantic, Etihad Airways, American Airlines and Swiss Airlines.
Best Time to Visit
- South Africa is a year-round destination. But for game watchers, the winter months of June to September make for the best time to book air tickets to the country. The vegetation is sparse and big games are spotted frequenting waterholes very easily.
- Summer months of November, December and January make for the best time for beachgoers to hop aboard scheduled flights to the country. But cheap airfare deals are in scanty during this time and it makes sense to book well in advance.
- The spring and autumn months remain the best time to book tickets on scheduled flights for hiking adventures in South Africa.
Social Conventions
- South Africa is one of the most multicultural countries in the world. But the visitors must remain mindful of not hurting local sentiments.
- It makes sense to avoid being overly amorous in public, especially visitors with homosexual orientation must completely avoid public act of affection. Though the country is liberal, this may catch attract unwanted attention.
Health Tips
- It is advisable to contact GP around 8 weeks and get vaccinated, if required. The standard of medical facilities is average in the country but can be fairly expensive. It makes sense to take out comprehensive travel insurance that covers any overseas medical costs.
- HIV/AIDS is of particular concern in South Africa. Hence, visitors hopping aboard flights must exercise normal precautions to avoid exposure to HIV/AIDS.
Local Laws
- Drug consumption and smuggling/trafficking are illegal in South Africa and calls for severe penalties.
- Visitors on flights bound for South Africa Always must carry their identity documentation or a copy of their at all time as they may be asked to produce valid identification on request by South African officials.
Martin Wynn
