South Africa has the most advanced economy in Africa - its GDP is nearly four times that of Egypt, its nearest competitor on the continent. But there is high unemployment and only 14 per cent of South Africans enjoy a standard of living equivalent to that of North Americans.
It has an abundant supply of resources and well-developed financial, legal, communications, energy and transportation sectors.
South Africa's climate and energy attract many would-be residents but it is beset with social problems - high unemployment being the worst and the main cause of others. But blessed with scenery that is truly like paradise on earth, many consider themselves lucky to live here.
Private medicine is a much better choice than state. The standards are high and the costs are rather lower than in many western countries. Around 18 per cent of South Africa’s population are members of medical schemes that give them access to private healthcare and the number of private hospitals is growing. Two of the largest private healthcare providers are Netcare, and Mediclinic. Your insurance should include cover for private ‘rapid response’ emergency services, the private equivalent of ambulances.
Ask your friends, neighbours or colleagues for their recommendations. You must be at least 18 and provide proof of identity your address in South Africa - a passport and utility bill usually suffice. Before choosing a bank, it’s wise to compare the fees charged for international money transfers and other services, which can be high. A bank’s website usually has details of charges.
Properties for rent are advertised in South African newspapers and magazines, including expatriate publications. You can also start your property search before you’ve left your home country. The best newspapers in the UK, for example, are the Sunday Times, Sunday Telegraph and Observer, all of which contain classifieds from British homeowners in South Africa.
In South Africa they drive on the left and the speed limit is 120km/h. Any valid driver’s licence is accepted provided it bears the photograph and signature of the holder. South African petrol stations are not self-help: an attendant will fill the car, check oil, water and tire pressure and, if necessary, clean the windscreen. Tipping is mandatory. Do not stop to feed wild animals.
There are scheduled bus services between Cape Town, Johannesburg, Durban and other cities, as well as connections to neighbouring countries. The main bus companies are: Greyhound, Intercape Mainliner, Translux and SA Roadlink, with bookings done via Computicket.
Spoornet is the national rail operator, offering budget passenger services, known as Shosholoza Meyl and first class services between Johannesburg and Cape Town. To book tickets, phone Central Reservations; you can pick up and pay for the tickets later at any train station.
There are also commuter trains in larger cities – Johannesburg, Pretoria, Cape Town, Durban, Port Elizabeth and East London. These are run by Metrorail.
The currency is the South African Rand. The cost of living in the popular (with expatriates) parts of South Africa’s major cities is much the same as in cities in Australia, France, Germany, the UK and the US.
Luxury products are equivalent, but wine and spirits are relatively inexpensive, as is dining out. Food costs slightly less as does accommodation. Going to the beach, enjoying the view and hiking up mountains is mostly free.
