South Africa Overview

Overview
by Suzie Jones

South Africa is famous for its rainbow nation - diversity is the name of the game. Speaking of game – all five big game animals can be found here with relative ease. If that is not impressive enough they also inhabit a country that boasts extraordinary biological diversity (including the Fynbos Biome – the smallest of the world’s six floral kingdoms), almost 3000 km of coast lining two oceans and enough heritage and culture to keep any history buff on their toes!

The climate is mild to tropical and although there are pockets of cold in winter most visitors will find an excuse to return home with a bit of colour!

Certain areas of South Africa do fall within a malaria zone and it is necessary to keep the rising crime rates in mind. Always take advice on what to do, how to get there and where to stay from a reputable source.

Various adrenaline activities, world class lodgings and fabulous food can all be had throughout the country. You only have to scratch the surface lightly to find the colourful and complicated history of the southern tip of Africa. The Malay, Dutch and French Huguenot influence can clearly be seen in the cuisine and architecture of the Cape. The KwaZulu Natal coastline still bears evidence of Portuguese and Indian traders and the commercial atmosphere of Gauteng is a left over from the Gold rush of the 19th century.

Don’t go home without...

The tourist friendly South African Rand will guarantee that the extra space in your suitcase will quickly be filled. Local industries produce a large array of products from edibles to art and fashion and of course not forgetting your very own African diamond.

If South Africa is your only stop feel free to indulge in African curios – but be warned they will be even cheaper once you cross a border. The great weather also lends itself to various open air weekend Craft Markets where traders from the entire Africa display their wares.

30 March 2008