FAQ South Africa

Soccer or Football?

There is often confusion about which is the correct term to use. What is the difference between the two? There is no difference. The game is largely known as football in Europe, where as in former British colonies such as South Africa and Australia, it is called soccer. The word soccer emerged from the short slang for British Football Association, known for the FA Cup.

Soccer Stadiums’ Locations

There are 10 soccer stadium venues. Five new stadiums were built especially for the 2010 event. Fans will be able to watch their favourite teams battle for the World Cup on some of the planet’s most extraordinary soccer fields. The ten soccer stadiums are ideally located all across South Africa.

South Africa’s Top Attractions

Standard Time

South Africa is ideally located. There are no time zone differences within the country, with standard time being constant throughout the year. South African standard Time is two hours ahead of Greenwich Mean Time (GMT +2), one hour ahead of central European winter time, and seven hours ahead of United States Eastern standard Time.

Theft

Immediately report theft at the nearest police station in order to make your insurance claim. It is always a good idea to be cautious when travelling. Do not display valuable jewelry and travel documents. All Siyabona Africa Fan Camps are equipped with security lockers to store your valuables.
Police Emergency Number: 10111

Tipping / Gratuities

Tipping is customary. The standard tipping rate varies from 10% upward depending on your own discretion. Most hospitality and taxi employees are reliant on gratuities for their income.

Townships

South Africa’s townships are vibrant with a very strong sense of community. Life in a township is not easy, with minimal or no infrastructural facilities, suffering greatly from poverty. South Africa’s largest township, Soweto, has grown and developed to gain city status, boasting with Soccer City, the official host venue of the 2010 Soccer World Cup. Other well-known townships include Alexandra, Guguletu, Kayalitcha and Galeshewe Townships. Book yourself on a reputable township tour for a life changing experience. Please note it is not advisable to visit any of the townships without a tour guide from a reputable tour operator.

Vat (Value-Added Tax)

VAT is included and displayed on most retail goods and services. The current VAT is set at 14%. VAT refund administration offices are found at all major international departure points, harbours and customs offices. The original VAT invoice document is required to claim VAT. Take note that goods consumed or services rendered in South Africa do not qualify for a VAT refund. Items taken out of the country with a value exceeding R250 are subject to VAT refunds.

Visa

Some countries are exempt from requiring a visa when visiting South Africa. To find out and apply for a visa, visit the South African diplomatic or consular representative in the country of residence, and where the applicant holds a valid passport. Processing time for a South African visa is usually up to 10 days, at a cost of R425 or US $47. Take note that visas cannot be applied for at South Africa’s ports of entry.

Water

Rest assured tap water in South Africa is perfect for consumption throughout the country. The country’s standards are well approved by the World Health Organization. Bottled water is also available in all supermarkets and restaurants.