Tips for Journalists at the World Cup South Africa 2010

Travel and Accommodation
If you have not made accommodation arrangements in advance, it is useful to do some research on the areas you would like to stay in before you leave your home country.

Typically, hotels and guesthouses are located in respectable areas, but they might be a far distance from stadia or other World Cup locations. It is advised to either hire a car (remember to drive on the left), or use a private metered taxi or shuttle company to and from your destination. Avoid ‘minibus taxis’ - while these are cheap and convenient, the vehicles are often not roadworthy, the drivers can be reckless and they are usually crammed over capacity. Public buses are limited and often in poor condition, however the newly created Bus Rapid Transport (BRT) system linking important sites within Cape Town, Johannesburg and Port Elizabeth should be efficient and in excellent condition.

Safety and Security
The simplest way to avoid being a victim of crime is to ensure you do not travel to unsafe areas at ANY time (ask locals in your area or hotel service staff if you are unsure). Do not travel alone if possible, especially not in quiet, unlit areas; and make sure your doors of your room and car are locked.

Theft and pick pocketing are major problems: always keep hold of your belongings and make sure your bags and pockets are closed or secure. It is advised to wear a money belt for important items like your passport and cash. Be especially watchful of expensive equipment such as cameras, phones and other broadcasting equipment.

Lastly, be aware of the character of the individuals around you, and be cautious of your surroundings. Street children and beggars at red lights can be suspicious – rather buy them some food or drink instead of giving them money and, again, watch your belongings closely.

Interviews and language
South Africans are very friendly and talkative people. It is not unusual to strike up a conversation with a stranger, or to be invited by an acquaintance for a drink or even a meal. South Africans are also generally happy to be interviewed and speak freely to the media.

Although there are 11 official languages, English is widely spoken. However, if you are asking complicated questions or are confused by the accent of a non-first language English speaker (or require translation), it might be useful to organise an assistant or ‘fixer’ in advance of leaving your home country.

Money
The currency in South Africa is the Rand (R). Practically all major credit and debit cards are accepted in stores and restaurants, however cash will be needed for informal traders, bars (usually you have to make a minimum purchase when using a card at the bar), taxis, or smaller cafes. However, it is not advised to carry large amounts of cash on your person.

As service staff usually make most of their money off tips, gratuity is almost mandatory at 10-15% of the total bill. VAT (14%) is included in the price of goods. It is also customary to tip taxi/shuttle drivers, tour guides and baggage carriers.

Beware when paying by card at a restaurant – always request the waiter bring you a portable card machine, or go with the waiter and watch them swipe your card – there have been cases of credit card fraud in the last few years. Also ensure that no one sees you typing in your pin code at a cash machine and if you suspect the machine has been tampered with or in any way feel uncomfortable, move to another cash machine location.

If you are driving a car, you may come into contact with ‘car guards’ who attempt to help you in and out of parking spaces and look after your car while you are away. They are usually friendly and harmless, and are designated by a yellow reflective vest. It is customary to tip them anything between R2-R5 when you return to your vehicle.

Useful Contacts

Emergency services – 10111 (free), 112 (mobile phones, also free)
Emergency medical - 10177
South African Tourism
SA Venues (Accommodation, Tours, Car Hire)
Currency exchange 
Weather 
Maps and general info from the Department of Tourism