HOST DESTINATION

Population: There are approximately 55 million people in South Africa and 6.2 million people in the Western Cape.

Language: English is the main business and academic language; although  here are 11 official languages in South Africa. The main local languages spoken are English, Afrikaans and Xhosa. With large numbers of foreign residents, Cape Town also has significant German, Dutch, French, Chinese and Spanish communities with the available language skills to assist during an international  business event.

Visas: Visas are issued by the South African missions abroad and must be affixed in the applicant’s passport before departing for South Africa. Visas are not issued on arrival at South African ports on entry. Many nationalities do not require a visa to enter South Africa, it is best to check with the South African mission or travel agents if this is required. For further information, please visit: www.services.gov.za/services/content/Home/ServicesforForeignNationalsTemporaryresidence/Applicationforavisa/en_ZA

Climate: Cape Town enjoys a typical Mediterranean climate with a dry, hot summer (max temperature 27° C) and a wet, mild winter (min temperature 7° C).

Health: There are 2 private emergency units within 5 minutes of CTICC and 9 emergency centres, 2 trauma centres and 4 ambulance services in the City. Cape Town is not a malaria region and there are no tropical diseases to be aware of and no vaccine requirements for visitors although visitors are requested to have the relevant yellow fever injections should they have travelled from or visited an affected area prior to entering South Africa.

Water: It is safe to drink the tap water in South Africa although bottled water is readily available as well.

Driving: In South Africa, motorists drive on the left. An international driver’s license will be required if a visitor wishes to drive while in South Africa.

Tax: The majority of goods sold in South Africa are subject to a 15% Value Added Tax (VAT). Visitors are not exempt from paying VAT although they can claim  back if the value of the goods bought exceeds R250. To claim the VAT, the  goods must be taken out of the country within 90 days from the date of purchase.

Visitors who wish to claim VAT should go to the VAT refund administration office  or customs official at the port of exit. For more information, please visit: http://www.taxrefunds.co.za/

Connectivity: South Africa offers a sophisticated internet network and Wi-Fi is readily available throughout the City. There are a number of mobile networks available and Sim cards can be bought at airports and shopping centres. The electric current is 240 volts AC so visitors should bring a plug adaptor for three-pin sockets for small appliances.

Time & Measurement: South African Time is GMT +2. There are no time differences within South Africa and no daylight saving. Shopping hours vary but shops are typically open from Monday to Sunday, 9am – 5.30pm. The V & A Waterfront and Canal Walk shopping centres are open until 9pm. Distances are measured in kilometres and metres. Weight is indicated by grams and kilograms. Temperature is mainly measured in degrees Celsius.

Currency: The Rand is the official currency in South Africa and foreign currency can be exchanged at the Cape Town International airport, at commercial banks and at Bureaux de Change. The exchange rate is extremely favourable for visitors:

US$ 16.70 € 19.07 £ 21.09

Currency exchange as per August 2020.