South African trained doctors are sought after all over the world. There is a large network of public and private hospitals countrywide, offering excellent service. However, you must have adequate health insurance to cover the fees private hospitals charge.
Internet usage in South Africa is widespread and there is an extensive network of internet cafes. Most international hotels will offer internet access often via wireless. Ensure your email can be accessed via a browser such as Internet Explorer (webmail). A good tip is to keep copies of important documents (e.g. passport) in a secure webmail account as attachments to emails.
Contact your UK mobile network provider to ensure your mobile phone is enabled for international roaming and the network is supported in South Africa. Do this well in advance of your departure date, as it can take up to 14 days to modify your network options, and you cannot do it from overseas. Check that your existing handset will work in the country you are travelling to – South Africa shouldn’t be a problem. If you will be making a lot of calls, consider hiring a phone or buying a local sim card.
South Africa does have a high crime rate but tourist areas are highly policed and generally safe. The best advice is to use common sense: pay attention to your surroundings and report suspicious circumstances to a security guard or a South African Police officer (SAP). Policemen wear blue uniforms and use white cars with blue markings.
Non-residents are permitted to drive with a driving license issued and valid in their own country, provided it bears the photograph and signature of the holder and is in English. If your drivers licence does not meet these requirements, an international driver’s license is required. You drive on the left and the wearing of seatbelts is compulsory.