 |
|
In summer, the weather in the north-west is hot by day, warm by night; in winter it is warm by day and cool by night. A few extra layers won’t go amiss any time of year and if you’re going on safari in the nearby malaria-free areas they’re essential – those morning game drives in open vehicles are cold.
Few places have strict dress codes but, unless you’re an extroverted showgirl, a conservative smart-casual will get you through any door.
|
|
|
Unless you are from one of the far flung outer perimeter galaxies with which South Africa shares a frosty relationship, three-month holiday visas are issued at the door. If you are in any doubt, we will gladly advise and comprehensive visa information is available from www.safrica.info
No vaccinations or inoculations necessary but don’t bring any animal produce into the country. Neighbouring countries have different regulations so if you’re going on a multi-country tour, check the requirements for each country with your consultant.
|
|
|
Sun City Resort is a metropolis of shops, restaurants, bars, clubs and casinos. Take the same precautions you would in any large and popular resort – keep your personal belongings with you at all times and lock away valuables. The lodges and hotels all offer safes – either personal or at the front desk.
The good news is the whole area is malaria-free so you don’t have to worry about hallucinogenic prophylaxis; there are mosquitoes though so you’ll still need to take repellent and wear long-sleeved tops at night to avoid the irritating bite.
HIV is prevalent in southern Africa and you should be wary at all times, regardless of where you are or who you’re with, and always take the necessary precautions.
Doctors and hospitals are of a high standard if you can afford to go private so ensure your travel insurance covers medical emergencies. Sun City Resort has a small health facility; rangers are trained in first aid and – with Joburg a short flight away - all the lodges have emergency evacuation procedures in place.
|
|
|
The South African Rand (ZAR) has stabilised against all currencies to approximately R7.00 to US$1 with minor daily fluctuations – our prices are converted at the current exchange rate.
Foreign exchange services are available at the airport and Sun City Resort; you need your passport and airline ticket to exchange money. We recommend obtaining Traveller’s Cheques before departure; a bank or your hotel will be able to cash them for you.
Credit and debit cards are accepted in most outlets, banks, and cash machines but South African bank charges are staggering. Car hire companies require an imprint of your credit card but you don’t have to pay with it.
Keep your receipts for anything you want to take home as you can claim a 14% Tax Refund on the total. You can claim your refund at the airport if you have time and most of the large shopping precincts will have a green VAT Refund booth.
|
|
|
Sun City Resort is a year-round destination as well with plenty to do indoors and out; the water activities are limited in winter but so are the crowds.
|
|
|
|
Coffee – $1.50
Men’s Health – US$5
Heineken – US$2.50
Car Hire – US$45/day |
|
South Africa Standard Time is 2 hours ahead of Greenwich Mean Time (GMT+2). This is ideal for European clients as the time difference is minimal. South Africa does not operate Daylight-Saving Time. International Dialling Code for South Africa is 0027.
|
|
You can add a malaria-free safari to your Sun City holiday – Pilanesberg and Madikwe are stunning ‘big five’ game reserves within easy reach of the resort.
|
|
The Valley of Waves generates swells up to eight feet high
The resort is set in 25 hectares of spectacular botanical gardens
Artists Against Apartheid, including the likes of Bob Dylan, Ringo Starr, Bono, Bruce Springsteen, performed a song called ‘Sun City’ in which the singers vowed they would never perform there – bookings went through the roof.
|
|
|
|
