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When it comes to safety, South Africa doesn't have the best reputation. That's worth knowing – but it doesn't mean you can't thoroughly enjoy this fascinating country. Yes, South Africa is among the 10 countries with the highest crime rates in the world, and the statistics don't lie. This comes down to several factors, such as high levels of poverty, inequality, unemployment and social exclusion. As in many countries, tourists in South Africa are mostly affected by petty crime.
South Africa is so much more than just dangerous – sadly, that's often the first thing that comes to mind. This article isn't trying to talk you into visiting a country you feel unsure about. Instead, I want to give you honest, practical advice on what to do, and what not to do, on a trip to South Africa. As a European woman who has lived in several African countries over the past five years, I've had to adapt – and I've learned a lot about how to look after my own safety.
Here are some useful tips that will hopefully help you prepare as well as possible for a trip to this wonderful country.
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Source – Canva
As in any country, staying aware of your surroundings is especially important in busy places with lots of tourists. Because pickpocketing can happen, avoid carrying visible or easily accessible valuables. Be aware, too, that some people may try to distract or deceive you.
So stay alert and trust your gut if something feels off.
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It's also really important to listen to your instincts. If you feel unsafe somewhere, turn around and head back, or go to a place where there are more people. As you walk, keep your head up and stay aware of your surroundings to signal that you're alert and not easily caught off guard.
For example, you might be walking down a quiet street and feel as though someone is staring at you. In Europe, I learned to pretend – as a woman in those situations – to be on the phone to my partner, saying something like “I'll be home soon.” In South Africa, though, I wouldn't take my phone out. Instead I'd signal to that person that I'm aware of their unwelcome attention by making eye contact and greeting them, then head into a shop or a busier place where I feel safe.
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Source: Canva
In dangerous situations such as a mugging, never resist. If someone threatens you and demands your phone, for example, hand it over as calmly as possible. Yes, they're valuables – but that's exactly what your travel insurance is for. Some people are tempted to try to save their belongings, or even to confront the offenders, but it's never worth it. Don't take any unnecessary risks and don't make the situation worse than it needs to be.
If there are valuables that are absolutely irreplaceable to you, you could carry a decoy wallet with a little cash and some old bank cards to hand to robbers. You could hide your “real” card in your shoe or under your clothing, for instance.
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Drive only during the day, not at night, and always lock the car doors while driving, to be safe. At traffic lights especially, it's important that the doors are locked and the windows closed, as this is where valuables are most often stolen from cars. You should also keep valuables out of sight and, ideally, locked away in the boot.
Always look for a safe car park and don't park on dark streets. Don't leave anything visible in the car (such as coins, clothing or cables), as this only invites unnecessary break-ins. When parking on the street, there's usually a “car guard” who helps you park and keeps an eye on your car while you're away. If so, give the guard a small tip as you leave (about the equivalent of fifty pence in the local currency).
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Source: Canva
Of course, you can stop at petrol stations or supermarkets along the way. Always be aware of your surroundings and trust your instincts. In unusual situations – such as an animal beside the road, or someone asking for help – don't stop. It may feel wrong, but sadly these can be a trap to get you to pull over. The same applies if other cars signal you to stop.
In that case, drive on to the nearest petrol station or police station, where you can check your vehicle. As you'll often be travelling in unfamiliar areas, it's always a good idea to check with your accommodation whether there are particular neighbourhoods or routes to avoid – because of roadworks or poor roads, say. And when driving somewhere new, you can always ask the locals for the best route.
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Source: Canva
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