General Information
The date is formatted: day / month / year
The country code (for cell phones) is +27
Driving is on the left hand side of the road, and “robot” is the word also known as a “traffic light”.
There are a lot of measurement shifts - convert temperature (oven and air) to celsius, miles to km when figuring out distance and all sorts when cooking
There are no daylight saving time changes in South Africa; the clock remains the same throughout the year
Cape Town is in the “Western Cape” - that is the name of the province (equivalent to a “State”)
Banking
Banking centers are open Mon - Fri 9 am - 3:30 pm, Sat 9-11 am, and the closest to you will likely be the V&A Mall
There are foreign exchange bureaus at the mall and of course, foreign currency can be exchanged at the airport on arrival. The easiest way to access cash is to bring an ATM card with you. There are many Automatic Teller Machines (ATMs) which can take Maestro, Plus or Cirrus. Visa, MasterCard, and Amex are widely accepted at stores and restaurants. The banks will not cash personal cheques unless you have a South African bank account.
Based on your personal bank, you will want to look into what fees they charge for ATM’s (to withdraw money from an international ATM) and transaction fees (for use of any cards internationally). It may be worth looking into what is the best option for this in your home country, and potentially transferring to that bank, as these fees add up quickly. Alternatively, you can set up a local bank account, and transfer fees to that account and withdraw money locally.
Note: TransferWise has worked best for many of us as it gives lower fees for transferring money
What we use :
Chase Sapphire Reserve which is a credit card that has the best benefits for travel - there are no transaction fees.
Charles Schwab we have a debit card and as they don’t technically charge for ATM withdraws (they refund you at the end of the month for any withdrawals you get charged for) - we use this just for ATMs.
You shouldn’t need to send any “EFT’s” other than for your accommodation - but if you do, just ask us and we can help explain what options exist for you!
Health Insurance
I assume you’re not yet 26 so hopefully you’re still under your parents insurance. If you aren’t, health care & insurance is actually quite affordable in South Africa — if you have further questions we can chat more!
Communication
CELL SERVICE :
First off, your go to app is going to be : WhatsApp
No one texts unless its spam and rarely should you have to use airtime
Purchasing a SIM card - you can purchase a SIM card at the airport or at the local grocery store with a proof of residence letter from your accommodation. You will need to make sure your phone is unlocked to accept the foreign SIM card.
Cell C is the cheapest, (buy it in bulk for the year at 100gb, and it will last you or there is a service specifically for streaming as well). To get a SIM card your phone will need to be unlocked, and you will need to bring your passport and proof of address (which you can ask your accommodation for).
Alternatively (and what we would suggest) - get an e-sim card. This is a bit more complex but ultimately will allow you to keep your US number so that is ideal. You’ll want to go to your US carrier and request to get an e-sim card, and port your current US number to it. Then when you get to South Africa, just ask for an e-sim card from whatever carrier you choose and you can just add your number in. No SIM card switching, and you can use your US number over wifi!
You can purchase additional data or airtime by dialing Dial *135# and a menu will come up
WIFI :
Hopefully your accommodation has wifi - Sea Point should have fiber
If you don’t, here a few options - many coffee shops in your area should have wifi, or buying a cell phone plan that you can just use the data from.
Climate
In South Africa, summer is from December to February; autumn from March to May; winter from June to August; and spring from September to November.
Although there are no extremes of temperature, bring warm clothing because it is often cool inside buildings. Also be aware Cape Town frequently experiences gale force wind- warm clothing is a good idea for windy days.
Voltage
The electric current is 240 volts, 50Hz AC. Plugs have three round pins. South African adapters can be purchased here at the stores like Checkers. If you bring any 110 volt 60Hz (American) appliances you will need to bring a voltage converter unless your power cord adapts. Laptops, phone chargers and some other electronics will say on the power cord “100-240V” if it can convert the voltage itself.
We just grabbed a few adaptors off Amazon - worst case scenario - they sell them at the airport once you land in Cape Town
Electricity
Wherever you stay, it is likely that you will need to purchase electricity as there is a pay as you go meters tied to all buildings. You can purchase electricity at most gas stations, supermarkets, pharmacies, service stations, at major banks and ATMs. Or through one of this website or using Snapscan. You will need to know the code on your electric box (often it can be found in your kitchen), to be able to purchase electricity (if going to a physical store), and then you plug in the code that you will receive into the electricity box.
If your have issues with the electricity box, call the 24 Hour Electrical Faults Council +27 086 010 3089, or SMS 31220 or email power@capetown.gov.za
The other consideration around electricity is Loadshedding :
Load shedding, or load reduction, is done countrywide as a controlled option to respond to unplanned events to protect the electricity power system from a total blackout. Tips:
Invest in a lantern or headlamp so you can have light
Download the EskomPush app, and check the schedule to know when the power will be out. If needed- just drive to a nearby city that won’t be loadshedding (often times Claremont and Cavendish aren’t load shedding, so you can go to see a movie at the mall for the duration of load shedding in your city)
Plan meals appropriately-- often it seems to happen during dinner prep, so keep a little food around that doesn’t require electricity to prepare— if you learn how to braai you can always cook, or check if your stovetop is gas. You should be able to light your stovetop with a lighter if its gas
Charge up your electronic devices in advance
Stock up on candles
Premake a hot drink and put it in a thermos - I actually like to warm up the full kettle as well just incase
Wifi / cell service typically goes down, so prepare accordingly
As an option, you can invest in a UPS (which is basically a large backup battery) to run your internet / charge your devices
Often local coffee shops in the area that have a generator so that is an option if you still need access to wifi
Safety is of added concern during loadshedding
Gas
Many stove tops use gas as well as the most affordable heating system (long term) uses gas, and therefore the cylinder will need to be refilled— since you’re in a short term rental - this shouldn’t have to be something you cover the cost for so make sure to clarify with your landlord that the gas tank is already full before you move in
Geyser Usage
Geyers are the water heating systems found in most buildings in South Africa— which can be around 40-60% of your electricity bill to keep heated if left on all the time (so it is the norm for people to turn off your geyser when it is not in use). Some homes have automatic geyser timers which turns off your geyser during “off peak hours” which is helpful— other homes you have to manually turn your geyser on and off. This is helpful information to know to prevent having unwanted cold showers :) So make sure to ask your landlord how it works where you are staying
Dishwasher Usage
They are a luxury, but if you use a dishwasher here, often times an issue that comes up is that the hard water we have will make dishwashers less efficient, fortunately there’s an easy solution— dishwasher salt! This type of salt is specially formulated to soften hard water, which can cause dishes to appear dirty or be covered by a thin layer of minerals, even after washing. You can pick this up at any grocery store. Dishwashers should come with a built-compartment where your salt goes. Using it is a matter of checking to see if this compartment needs more salt and then refilling it as necessary.
Clothes Dryers
They are a luxury but the reality of living by the ocean is that clothes and towels are very difficult to get dry- and if they stay damp, they easily can grow mold. So if you happen to be able to afford a clothes dryer— keep in mind that many of them are actually Condensers— which work a bit different from Tumble Dryers in that it sucks out the moisture, and will need to be emptied.
You will quickly discover how difficult it is to keep anything dry due to the ocean air there— keep an eye on your clothes, linens and plants from getting moldy.
A good option may be to have your clothes laundered as they will have access to dryers - it looks like there are quite a few around Sea Point - typically they take a day or two to get a load done so that’s something to factor in - especially if there is loadshedding
Clothing
For those wondering how to dress for this context, it may be helpful to know that Cape Town is a very modern city - Capetonians are very stylish! This means that most of our staff wear “western clothing”.
Bikini’s on the beach are normal as well - whatever you feel comfortable in!
Vehicles
Uber - this has become a normal way of transport in Cape Town area. It is fairly safe to book an Uber, but follow safety protocols. Download the Uber app and you are good to go.
For all information about renting, buying, selling, etc.
Safety
Unfortunately crime is a reality in South Africa as it is a developing nation, and it is vital to be “street smart”, so here are some tips written by a South African :
Avoid walking alone, especially after dark, but also during dusk or sunrise.
Avoid visiting informal settlement areas (townships) unless you are with someone familiar with the area.
Make sure that if you carry a purse, that it is small, hung across your body and zipped close. Never have your phone out when you’re walking or in your pocket - always in your purse
At the Airport: Make sure your bags and luggage have locks and name tags. Do not allow people to tamper with your bags. When seeking directions, proceed to marked information counters only.
At Your Accommodation: Never leave your luggage unattended unless it is locked away in your room. Store valuables in the safety deposit box. Keep your room locked. If someone knocks, check who it is before opening the door— don’t open unless you know then or recognize them. Look for locations to stay that have burglar bars and gates for safety - this is the norm in South Africa and anything less would not be safe.
In Your Vehicle: Plan your route in advance. Keep the doors locked and wind the windows up at all times. Do not leave your mobile phone or other valuables where they are visible from outside the vehicle - this includes purses and backpacks while you drive as “smash and grabs” do happen throughout Cape Town. Lock valuable items, purses, backpacks, etc. in the boot (trunk) before your departure. At night, park in well-lit areas. Never pick up strangers or hitchhikers.
Car Guards:
When parking in the suburbs you will come across “car guards”- the common practice is to tip them when you return to your car. Tipping a coin or two for this service allows these individuals to work.
More into Cape Town city centre there are city-employed car guards (they wear blue vests) who come to your car when you park, you tell them how long you’ll be there and pre-pay for that amount of time (though you can estimate the lowest likely time, and then just pay extra when you return if you go over time), and they have a receipt for you. These are different from the individuals who you tip a coin or two when you return. For most of the main streets in the city centre, in business hours, there are the official ones.
On the Street: Avoid an ostentatious display of expensive jewellery, cameras, mobile phones and other valuables. Keep your handbag with you, keep it closed or zipped, and do not leave it or your phone unattended (not in a shopping cart, at a coffee shop, etc). Don’t use a large purse or backpack. Do not carry large sums of money with you. Carry your wallet and phone in an inside pocket – never in the rear pocket of your trousers. Credit card transactions must be processed in your presence. It is always better to explore in groups and to stick to well-lit, busy streets. Plan your route beforehand and, as far as possible, do not ask directions from strangers.
On Hiking Trails: In the interest of personal safety and having assistance in the case of a physical or medical emergency, it is advisable to explore trails in groups. Steer away from isolated areas unless accompanied by a guide. Safe trails for evening walks and runs in the Mother City
Time
There is something called “South African Time” - what that can look like :
Most places close around 5 (or whenever it starts to get dark) - or may just close if the surf is good, or its school holidays or they feel like it…
Similarly on Sunday - there are much more limited hours when shops are open and sometimes they may just be closed with no explanation
Typically the best option for the most up to date information on open hours is to check their instagram
The word “now” is a relative term, it could mean :
Emergency Numbers
Incase of an emergency or a protest (which happen often)- know that you are in a very safe part of town - so if there are protests, its unlikely that they will protest in Sea Point, the impact would primarily be that workers wouldn’t be able to come to the shops or to clean homes. The US Embassy will notify of any major concerns by enrolingl in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
Emergency — 112
Police Station — 10111
Fire / Accidents / Natural Disasters — 112
Fire Brigade Control Centre — +27 021 590 1971 / Emergencies +27 021 480 7700
Groceries
You are in the heart of the city - there are so many amazing food options nearby that you can get to go (called “take away”) or that can be delivered using UberEats!
But if you want to cook :
Cape Town is shifting away from plastic bags— reusable bags can be bought from most supermarkets.
Woolworths - I would equate this to Whole Foods as far as healthy options - but a fraction of the price. This was my go to place to shop when I was just cooking for one!
For a farmers market you are by the Oranjezicht Market!
For more affordable options - Checkers and Pick and Pay
Grocery Delivery — PicknPay, Checkers, Takealot and Woolworths
UCook (comparable to Blue Apron)- packages come complete with prepped (chopped and washed) ingredients and a recipe. All you do is follow the basic instructions of the recipe for a delicious meal in no time.
Water
Although the water often tests as being clean, people routinely have gotten sick from drinking the local tap water. So here are some tips— order some charcoal filters from Faithful to Nature or you can also just buy a Brita filter. Alternatively, you can buy jugs of water from most supermarkets.
Another consideration is that our water here is very hard, meaning that there is a high mineral content— so some ways that this affects daily life- often you’ll find that glasses won’t get a clear after you wash them, your hands may still feel slimy after washing, and it will affect your skin and hair as you shower- for example, you’ll get more buildup in your hair when you shower (just get a clarifying shampoo).
Recycling
Recycling services are sporadic in Cape Town and depending on where you live, much is still reliant upon your initiative, but please join us in caring for our planet and this country’s resources if possible!
Most local municipalities have recycling pick up— your leasing agent should know that information.
If you are really passionate about recycling, check out these iniatives by Greenpop
For other Zero Waste options - Nude Foods (Downtown)
To be honest - nothing that would be mailed to you is likely to get to you in the two months you’re visiting
But if you want to send mail - Postnet or The Courier Guy are you best bet for it to get to the US!
Working Out
Virgin Active - you can get a month to month contract, and honestly its so affordable and a really nice gym - would highly recommend
You’ll also easily be able to find any sort of exercise classes - yoga, kraal maga, etc. - let me know if you’re looking for something and I may already know of a place !
Safe trails for evening walks and runs in the Mother City
If you exercise in public (ie. a park) - don’t wear headphones or take your phone with you (unless it is a burner phone)
Ordering at a Restaurant
Water will be offered as still or sparkling.
It is customary that the server won't bring you your bill until you ask - you may even have to track them down to ask for the bill - when you do ask “can I get the bill and a card machine?” - that will save a lot of time
They must also bring a card machine as payments are done at the table— do not let a server take your card out of your presence.
If you are in a group, the bill will not be split by the server, you simply let the server know how much your portion was that you are paying, plus tip which is 10-15% (tax is included).
If you have any leftovers, ask for a “box for takeaway”.
Public Holidays
There are several South African public holidays to celebrate, click on each to learn more:
January 1: New Year’s Day
March 21: Human Rights Day
April 19: Good Friday
April 22: Family Day
April 27: Freedom Day
May 1: Workers Day
June 16: Youth Day
August 9: National Women’s Day
September 24: Heritage Day
December 16: Day of Reconciliation
December 25: Christmas Day
December 26: Day of Goodwill
Note: the Christmas season is a very big deal in Cape Town, so the city is packed as soon as schools let out for about a month. From around December 12 through the end of January, prepare for ministry to be limited and many shops to be closed or services to be limited
Christmas Celebrations to Know About:
Viewing Christmas Lights - The Adderley Street Festival of Lights or in neighborhoods like Brackenfell
More of what to expect can be found HERE
School Holidays : even if you are not a parent - school holidays affects everyone because the whole city gets hectic with traffic, kids running around or parents trying to take their kids out
First term break: 25 March – 11 April 2023
Second term break: 24 June – 18 July 2023
Third term break: 30 September – 10 October 2023
Fourth term break: 14 December 2023 – 17 January 2024
NGO’s
As you travel around the city or as you navigate friendships in Cape Town, you may have some questions about what resources are avaliable, or what are the “best practices” for caring for South Africans. Fortunately, Cape Town is home to 196 non-profit organizations — many of whom are led by South Africans who can speak to the complexities of this context and here are some of the amazing programs that exist :
U-Turn - for our unhoused brothers and sisters, U-Turn supports a journey out of homelessness by providing basic needs, Drug & Alcohol Rehabilitation Support and a learnership program
Arise Families - provides holistic support, as well as adoption support services, to parents, and mental health support to kids
Dignity & Dare Campaign - focuses on making menstrual and sex education and resources accessible to kids in the townships so girls can stay in school!
S-Cape - refuge, restoration and reintegration for survivors of human trafficking
If there are other questions that come up, or other causes that you are passionate about - just reach out! We would love to connect you with what’s happening in the city!