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South Africa

This is a country located at the southern tip of the African continent. It borders the countries of Namibia, Botswana, Zimbabwe?, Mozambique, and Swaziland.

KNOW BEFORE YOU GO

South Africa is a beautiful place with exotic foods and gorgeous views. It enjoys a past that differs largely from other parts of Africa as South Africa is largely composed of immigrants that came from Europe during the 1600s. As such, it is very ethnically diverse, although Black South Africans make up a large percentage of the population and apartheid has cast a scoff on the nation's history and has scarred many members of the community.

English is widely spoken, but locals have various different dialects, many of which based in French, Portuguese and other European languages. The country is largely westernized, but many of the local inhabitants live impoverished lives.

Often called the "Rainbow Nation," South Africa is known for it's beauty in miles of coastline that span across two oceans, the Atlantic and the Indian that surround the country on three sides. It is comprised of stunning countryside and many large cities, most notably Cape Town, Pretoria and Bloemfontein, all of which are the country's capital.

Of the three, Cape Town is the largest, recognized for its industrial and economic worldwide impact as well as a hotspot for tourists attracted to a vibrant culture.

The temperature in South Africa is consistent, but varies depending on what part of the country you are in. The northwest and inner parts of the country are largely desert and have temperatures that can quickly spike, and quickly fall, whereas the east coastlines enjoy tropical weather. Make sure to check the weather in correlation to what area you are traveling in before visiting South Africa.

Words of caution: Although South Africa is a beautiful place to visit, crime here is populous and drugs are a problem. It was once rated number two for assault, murder and rape on a United Nations survey, which has led to the creation of many gated communities, as well as local houses that have barbed wire or electric fencing surrounding them. If you're traveling to South Africa, it's important to make sure you get vaccinated before you leave, as tuberculosis. malaria and other diseases are a concern. HIV/AIDS, too, is damaging the country. South Africa has an often violent past surrounding issues of race and the Apartheid, which has led to a community steeped in racial fault lines that have left many bitter.

Despite this, the county is still a large tourist destination that has spawned the creation of many travel agencies dedicated to making sure you have a safe, and enjoyable South African experience. Here, a little bit of common sense and an open mind will go a long way.

Capital: Pretoria, Cape Town, Bloemfontein

Major City: Cape Town.

Languages: Afrikaans, English, Ndebele, Pedi, Sotho and a whole myriad of various tribal languages

Power: 220/230V, 50 Hz

Time Zone: UTC+2

Currency: South African Rand

Climate: South Africas climate is hot and dry though it will cool off in the wet season