The importance of consultation to the process of decision-making cannot be overestimated in the business world of South Africa. Not only is it part and parcel of a cautious approach to business, but it’s often required by law. Any...

Companies entering the country for the first time or those trying to expand their contacts are likely to find managers in South African companies receptive to meeting. South Africans tend to be formal at first in their meeting etiquette....

South Africa is facing acute, primarily financial, problems in delivering high-quality healthcare. Public-sector hospitals, subsidized by the state, serve 80 percent of the population, while the private hospitals serve only 20 percent....

With the country’s natural beauty and temperate climate, it’s obvious why most people in South Africa enjoy the outdoors. Magnificent beaches span the entire eastern coast and the Western Cape, providing a focal point for much of the...

A veritable fruit and vegetable basket, South Africa grows an amazing variety of produce on its farms and in its orchards. In addition, the country’s farmers raise cattle, sheep, and other livestock of excellent quality. The deep coastal...

South Africa’s liberal constitution grants all people equal status, regardless of their gender, race, religion, sexual orientation, or other characteristics. In practice, though, a large segment of the society is committed to preserving...

The Drakensberg range and the region’s ocean currents contribute to the varied climates found across South Africa. The interior is temperate, with sunny days and cool nights. A subtropical band extends along the east coast, while a much...

Durban’s subtropical climate makes it a popular tourist center. With a population of more than 3 million, Durban is the country’s busiest port and its second-largest city. It is also home to the country’s largest concentration of...

With the signing of its constitution in 1993, South Africa was divided into nine provinces, each with its own capital, legislature, and unique characteristics. The four provinces of the greatest economic importance and with the highest...

Crime is the overriding concern of anyone who lives in a South African city. Review safety precautions and tips for managing personal safety in Johannesburg, including home security options.

South Africa has a sophisticated financial services sector that resembles that of many other countries when it comes to checking, savings, insurance, and other products. ATMs are widely available, and online and telephone banking are...

South Africa is a visual feast, one of the most diverse countries in the world. South Africa's business environment is equally vibrant. The country's economy is one of the most dynamic in Africa, and it's the wealthiest on the continent,...

Workers in South Africa follow a very similar schedule to workers in Western Europe and North America. Employees in South Africa hold closing time dear. Unless there’s a special reason to do so, they’re not likely to work past quitting...

Generally speaking, physical greetings in South Africa are straightforward and follow Western traditions. At meetings as well as social events, it’s customary to shake hands. This applies to both men and women. Make sure you have a...

Since the end of apartheid, corporate life in South Africa has changed dramatically, and the business scene is now evolving at a fast pace. The government is committed to liberalizing the country’s economy in fundamental ways, and...

South Africa offers a variety of well-stocked stores and malls in the urban centers, which are filled with a wide range of goods from around the world. South Africa has a growing mall culture including places like Sandton City outside of...

The complexity and diversity that characterize South Africa’s cultural and ethnic landscape translate into a wide range of customs and values. You’ll see them exposed in virtually all aspects of daily life and interpersonal...

Initially a refueling station for Dutch sailors traveling to the East, South Africa gradually developed an agricultural sector, based on fruit, wine, and livestock production, along the coast of the Cape of Good Hope. All of this changed...

South Africans tend to be rather formal when you first meet them. But as long as you stick to the norms of behavior accepted in most places, interacting and living with them should be relatively easy. Cultural norms differ from one...

Entertaining at home is an extremely important part of the social life of South Africa. To participate fully, you need to be comfortable visiting people in their homes and adept at reciprocating. In keeping with the country’s generally...

Traditionally, men have dominated in the South African workforce while women stayed home to look after the house and children. The reality is very different for many women today. More black and colored women work, mostly in part-time...

South Africa has a serious crime problem, so ensuring your safety, and that of everyone you’re traveling with, will need to be a high priority while you’re in the country. At the same time, there’s no need to be paranoid. As in most...

South Africa offers a variety of housing options that differ between the major urban centers. Explore neighborhoods and review tips on hiring an estate agent and renting a home.

Cape Town, Johannesburg, and Durban dominate the cultural and business life of South Africa. Explore the main cities as well as the legislative and industrial centers that make South Africa the most vibrant economy in Africa. Learn more...