Let’s Talk About Travel Safety in South Africa for Interns
Your friends and family have probably brought it up many times. They want to know, “Is South Africa safe to travel to”? They want to know if you’ll be safe. And there are plenty of posts and ideas going around online about what you should or shouldn’t do when going to South Africa.
But, before we get into all of that, let me first introduce myself. I’m Laura, the current Communications intern of Roots Interns, and in this post, I’ll let you in on my experiences. I’ll also give you some tips and advice on how to prepare for your internship in South Africa, including how to mentally prepare.
What Are the Safety Issues in South Africa?
I’ve been in Cape Town for six weeks now. So, first I’ll just let you in on my experiences so far. Disclaimer, they’re actually pretty good! The thing I had to get used to the most was not being able to walk the streets at night. Well, you can, of course. But, it’s just not recommended. Coming from the Netherlands, this took me a while to get used to! However, taking an Uber here is really cheap. Besides, it is a great mind challenge to figure out how fast you should walk to get home before it is dark.
TAKE A LOOK AT OUR AVAILABLE INTERNSHIPS
Tips & Advice About Safety in South Africa
Is it safe to travel to South Africa? If you’re concerned about safety in South Africa, this might not be the first blog you’ve read about the topic. Maybe you’ve already read a few internship testimonials too. Just to make it clear, there are many different blog posts and intern alumni reviews out there. Some of them are very relaxed about it and say you shouldn’t worry, others say you should avoid a lot of things because it would not be safe. I’ll just play it safe this time and say my experience is somewhere in the middle. While my experiences so far have been pretty good, I’ll let you in on a few tips to always keep in mind.
1. Be Mindful of the Culture You’re in
You may be used to certain standards of safety in your home country (like I was in the Netherlands). Unfortunately, that doesn’t mean the same standards would apply here. We’re here to learn and explore a new culture. For your own safety, I would recommend just accepting that this is the new ‘normal’ while you’re here.
2. Be Aware of What is Going on Around You
That doesn’t mean memorizing all the street signs and shops near you (although, bravo if you can!). I would say to be aware of your approximate location, of who is around you, etc. Also, it’s always good to identify areas known to be safe for tourists or locals. You can often find this information in travel guides, forums, or local advice.
So, how is it safe to travel to South Africa if you have to do all these things? By being mindful of these aspects, you can significantly enhance your safety and ensure a more secure travel experience.
3. Opt for Uber When it’s Getting a Bit Late
I would highly recommend this! Even when you don’t always keep someone updated, at least they know that you’re doing well and kind of know where you’re located in case something does happen.
As a precaution, familiarize yourself with the local area and identify safe routes and locations. Use reputable transportation services, such as licensed taxis or Uber, especially when traveling at night. If possible, avoid walking around after dark and stay in well-lit, populated areas. By taking these precautions, you can enjoy your trip to South Africa while minimizing potential risks.
4. Try to Be Even More Cautious and Streetwise
You’re probably looking at this heading, and it’s raised even more questions for you. So, is it safe to travel to South Africa? Of course it is. All I mean by this heading is that when visiting South Africa, it’s important to be even more cautious and streetwise to ensure your safety.
And this is because understanding and respecting South Africa’s local customs, traditions, and social norms can enhance your travel experience and help you avoid misunderstandings or offending locals.
In summary, being cautious and streetwise in South Africa involves not only minimizing the visibility of your valuables but also adopting a proactive mindset. By staying aware, prepared, and informed, you can reduce risks and enjoy your travels with greater peace of mind.
5. Remember to Always Have Fun!
South Africa is a beautiful country with so much to explore, so enjoy experiencing this while you have the time. You can learn about the country’s rich history and cultural heritage by visiting museums, historical sites, and local markets. Engage with the friendly locals, savor the delicious cuisine, and explore the bustling cities and serene coastal towns.
So, while it’s important to stay safe and be aware of your surroundings, don’t let worries overshadow the joy of your journey. Embrace the unique experiences, make lasting memories, and appreciate the beauty and diversity that South Africa has to offer.
So, is South Africa a safe place to travel?
You’ll always need to do your research about a country before traveling there, because there’s just so much to be aware of. These tips and experiences are based on my own experiences as a non-local. I truly enjoyed my time in South Africa, and there was so much that I got to see and explore while there. My intention is only to encourage you to be conscious of your surroundings while enjoying the beautiful cultures and scenery.
If you also want to experience only the best in South Africa, just like I did, then you can find out more about how the Roots application process works. All in all, your experiences may differ, and your safety is still your own responsibility. So, I’ll leave by saying safe travels and enjoy!
