New ReviewFrance's free public education system boasts high standards, and literacy is nearly universal. Learn more about the schooling options available; children can attend nursery school starting at the age of three before attending elementary...

New ReviewThe French believe strongly in the separation of church and state, and the constitution notes the secular foundation of the country’s principles. French secular attitudes permeate many aspects of daily life. In fact, in an effort to...

New ReviewExplore the nuances of the German education system. Though not compulsory, kindergartens provide the first entry into German education. Children then attend the Grund Schule elementary school, which aims to teach basic skills along with...

New ReviewSouth 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...

New ReviewEntertaining 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...

New ReviewPursue due diligence in negotiating with South African concerns. This isn’t to say that there are lots of traps awaiting the unwary. In fact, there are relatively few. However, there are considerable differences within the business...

New ReviewCompany structures vary significantly from industry to industry in South Africa and from small companies to multinationals, but roles and titles tend to be the same overall. The relationship between managers and workers tends to be...

New ReviewThe 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...

New ReviewCompanies 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....

New ReviewTraditionally, 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...

New ReviewWorkers 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...

New ReviewGenerally 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...

New ReviewSince 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...

New ReviewSouth 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...

New ReviewSouth 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.

New ReviewCape 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...

New ReviewThe 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...

New ReviewSouth Africa’s diverse ethnic makeup is a defining feature of the country. Though more than three-quarters of the population are of African descent, this group is extremely varied culturally and linguistically. Zulus make up the largest...

New ReviewOfficially designated a middle-income country, South Africa ranks alongside Argentina, Brazil, Malaysia, Mexico, Poland, and Turkey in average per capita income. While the country is by far the richest in Africa, the economic statistics...

New ReviewInitially 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...

New ReviewAlong with Pretoria, Johannesburg is a commercial and financial center located in the Gauteng province. With more than 7 million people, it’s the largest city in South Africa. After gold was discovered in the area in 1886, immigrants...

New ReviewDurban’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...

New ReviewWith 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...

New ReviewCrime 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.