Monday, 16 February 2015

South African Travel Safety Tips

Safety is an important issue throughout the world, you need to know what to do and what not to do. Fortunately the Tourism Safety Task Group of South Africa has compiled the following helpful tips for tourists and migrants who come to the country…


At a hotel:
  Ø  Never leave your luggage unattended
  Ø  Store all your valuables in the hotels safety deposit box
  Ø  Keep your room locked at all times, whether you are inside or not
  Ø  Always check who is at the door before you open it
  Ø  Leave your room keys at the reception desk when leaving the hotel

In the street:
  Ø  Avoid over-the-top displays of expensive jewelry, cameras and other valuables
  Ø  NEVER carry around large sums of money around (a better option is to use URCard)
  Ø  Steer clear of dark, isolated areas at night
  Ø  It is better to travel around with a group of people and stick to well-lit, busy streets
  Ø  Plan out your route beforehand so you know where you are going
  Ø  A police officer or traffic officer will be glad to help if you are lost
  Ø  If you ever need to call a taxi, your hotel or a tourism information office can help you out

In a car:
  Ø  Plan your route in advance
  Ø  Keep your car doors locked and wind the windows up if you are in an unsafe area
  Ø  Lock all your valuable items in the boot of the car
  Ø  At night, always park in a well-lit area
  Ø  NEVER pick up strangers
  Ø  If you are in doubt about the safety of an area, phone a police station for advice

In general it would be advisable to always carry a reliable map with you. Plus you should keep a certified copy of passports and other important documentation, like flight tickets in a safe place such as a bank or the hotel’s safety deposit box.


Always leave your valuables at home. There is a chance your luggage may be opened and your valuables stolen when you are at the check out area.

  §  Do not wear expensive jewelry
  §  Never allow yourself to be separated from your hand luggage
  §  Always remember that laptops, phones and handbags are targeted items
  §  Do not allow yourself to be distracted by one person while another runs off with your possessions

South Africa is not the only country where the above list applies; it applies to majority of destinations around the world. Tourists are often caught up in unpleasant situations because they are not vigilant and wise because they are “on holiday” and in a carefree mood.

For affordable accommodation, contact 808 Cartwright. Do you need a reliable shuttle service to and from Cape Town International Airport? Give Airport Shuttle a call today!


Written By: Christine Romans

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