4. Smile.
When I told people I was heading to South Africa, I was told many times to look over my shoulder and be extra careful because it’s very dangerous there. Traveling to Cape Town alone, I made sure I was cautious. I questioned drivers trying to help me and I stayed in the hostel on my first night there although I was already dying to see the city. But then, after spending some time in Cape Town, I realized that I was too paranoid. There was no moment that I felt threatened when I was wandering by myself. It is good to always be cautious and aware of your surroundings, but when locals are nice to you, smile back. South Africans are one of the most welcoming and friendly people I’ve encountered so you shouldn’t think too much about what you see in the news.
Unfortunately, things can still happen while travelling that can cause stress, but always try to turn that frown upside down, no matter what. Here are some good tips from Vince Golangco, so you can always keep that smile on your face: When in Manila, Smile.
our supervisor Ronel
3. Visit Wineries.
South Africa is on the list of top 10 wine producing countries and seeing the vineyards and tasting the goods will make you understand why. South African wines are delicious and reasonably priced and it’s always nice to do a trip out of the city to see the gorgeous wine country.
wine country in Cape Town
tasting that delicious, world-renowned South African wine
2. Go for Some Braai.
You can’t get any more South African than enjoying some braai, beer, and football. Braai is the South African style barbecue that goes beyond firing up a grill and throwing in some meat. There’s a whole culture behind braai as it brings people together. The meat is flavoured with exotic spices and is not limited to chicken, pork, lamb, and beef. Instead, you can also have ostrich, goat, zebra, crocodile, impala, springbok, kudu, warthog… such a smorgasbord of choices.
chicken braai with peri-peri sauce
prawn braai on a bed of rice with lemon and chili sauce
1. Practice your Haggling Skills .
Visiting the markets in South Africa is a must since you can purchase various unique items from local artisans that are perfect for pasalubong and souvenirs. However, this requires good haggling skills. Many vendors already know how they can milk the tourists dry with their travel money, so you have to step your game up. It’s easy to get tempted when they offer you what sounds like a great deal; but in reality, they are overcharging. Don’t be an impulsive shopper and don’t believe their stories. I heard the line: “I am different from the other vendors because I’m the artist.” 3 times in 15 minutes. We all know that, when stepping foot in places where price tags can be discussed, you have to take your time, shop around, and haggle, haggle, haggle.
South African market finds
So, what are you waiting for? Save some money, pack your bags, jet to the Rainbow Nation and prepare to be awed. Just a warning, though: you might not want to go home afterwards.