If you are on your first visit to South Africa, get ready for the best kind of culture shock. Let’s start with ‘Mzansi’ - that’s South Africa’s affectionate nickname, and you will instantly impress locals when you use it. Here are four more things every first-time visitor should know about our rainbow nation:
- Table Mountain doesn’t quite look like a table
It may have a flat(ish) top, but Table Mountain doesn’t exactly resemble a traditional table. Still, it is a must-see landmark when visiting the Mother City, which is what we call Cape Town. The mountain is rich with local lore, and there is more than one way to reach the top. You can take the cable car for unbeatable views or hike up for a free, exhilarating challenge. If you want easy access to this natural wonder, City Lodge Hotel V&A Waterfront is the perfect place to stay. - Bunny Chows don’t contain bunnies
Despite the name, Bunny Chows are 100% bunny-free. When in Durban in KwaZulu-Natal, trying one is a must. It is essentially a hollowed-out half loaf of bread filled with a hearty curry - choose between chicken, beef, mutton, or a vegetarian option and if you are unsure of your tolerance for heat, opt for the mild version. When looking for safe, comfortable, and affordable accommodation in Durban, check out our City Lodge Hotel Durban or nearby Road Lodge Durban. - The word ‘now’ doesn’t mean what you think
In South Africa, the word 'now' has a time frame all its own. Here’s a quick guide:
- Right now: Immediate or currently happening
- Now: Could be within 10 minutes, but might take a little longer
- Now now: It’ll happen soon, within 30 minutes
- Just now: Expect it anywhere from 30 minutes to a few hours
- A braai is definitely NOT just a barbeque
Don’t confuse a braai with a regular barbeque. South Africans take their braais very seriously, usually opting for wood and charcoal instead of gas and ensuring there are at least two salads and garlic bread alongside a variety of meat. Plus, boerewors (our signature sausage) is a must. If you are visiting Gqeberha, one of the braai capitals of South Africa, consider staying at Courtyard Hotel Gqeberha for a true local experience.
