LOCAL CULTURE
DRINKING WATER
South Africa's tap water is regarded as one of the ten best purified waters in the world so it's clean, safe and drinkable.
SAFETY
As in any other big city in the world, it is not advisable to carry large amounts of cash around or wear ostentatious fine jewellery. Be discreet when carrying cameras, video equipment and mobile phones.
Giving a tip
Tipping is at your discretion. Ten per cent is customary. Taxi drivers are not tipped as most are self-employed.
TRANSPORT
We do not recommend using local transport such as buses and minibus taxis. Book the hotel's limousine service or accredited taxis through the Concierge desk.
DID YOU KNOW ?
Cullinan Pretoria
In 1905, the world's largest diamond at 3,106 carats was discovered in Cullinan, north-east of Pretoria.
Gauteng
Gauteng is the smallest province (18,810sq km) in South Africa, yet it boasts the greatest wealth and contributes 33.3% to the GDP.
Kwaito
Soweto street musicians invented their own genre of music called kwaito, characterised by deep basslines and African percussion.
Mrs Ples
In 1947, archaeologists found the most complete skull of an Australopithecus Africanus, nicknamed Mrs Ples, in the Sterkfontein cave of what is now the Cradle of Humankind World Heritage Site. The skull, which is thought to be 2.15 million years old, is the missing link between humans and apes.
WHAT TO PACK
Anti-malaria medication
If you are going on safari, check whether the reserve is in a malaria area. If so, see your doctor for prescription medicines before you leave.
Clothing
Although our summers are quite warm, it's always advisable to bring a sweater or jacket with you for the evenings. Jackets and gloves are recommended for winter.
Money
Exchange some currency into South African rands before you leave − just enough for airport incidentals and transportation to the hotel. The hotel also offers quick local currency conversions to pay for your taxi to the hotel.
Safari kit
Safari-goers should bring a pair of binoculars, dark coloured clothing, a hat and sunscreen and of course their camera.