| Full country name: |
The Republic of South Africa |
| Area: |
1,221,037 sq km |
| Population: |
43.1 million |
| Capitals: |
Pretoria (administrative); Bloemfontein (judicial)
and Cape Town (legislative) |
| People: |
77% black, 10% white (60% of whites are of
Afrikaner descent, most of the rest are of British descent), 8%
mixed race, 2.5% of Indian or Asian descent |
| Languages: |
Zulu, Xhosa, Afrikaans, Pedi, English, Tswana,
Sotho, Tsonga, Swati, Venda, Ndebele |
| Religion: |
Christian, Muslim, Hindu, Jewish and traditional
religions |
| Government: |
Republic
and independent member of the British Commonwealth |
| President: |
Jacob Zuma |
| Currency : |
rand |
| Visas: |
Entry permits are issued free on arrival to visitors on holiday from
many Commonwealth and most Western European countries, as well as Japan
and the USA. If you aren't entitled to an entry permit, you'll need to
get a visa (also free) before you arrive. |
| Health Risks: |
No international immunisation is needed when entering South Africa. The only inoculation requirement is a yellow fever vaccination certificate from traveller’s entering South Africa within 6 days of leaving an infected area. Port Elizabeth is Malaria Free. Some areas in Zululand are subject to malaria. Before entering these areas, persons are advised to consult a doctor or pharmacist to obtain necessary medication. |
| Time: |
GMT/UTC plus two hours |
| Electricity : |
220/230V, 50Hz |
| What seasons to come to the Port Elizabeth: |
Temperatures are moderate all year round with rain scattered throughout the year. The summers are warm with a very temperate humidity level. Winters are mild and pleasant, and it is significant that water sports, even surfing, boardsailing and diving, are practised year-round. In all, the visitor soon discovers that the climate is one major contributor to the reputation of the area as offering an outstanding quality of life. |
| Geography: |
For the tourist wanting a total South African experience, Port Elizabeth is the perfect complement to the Port Elizabeth, Settler Hinterland, Sunshine Coast and Cape. Located on the South Eastern coast of Africa, this major sea port and tourist destination is set along the beautiful shores of Algoa Bay, and is fondly referred to as the Friendly Eco-City. The city is the second largest city in terms of area and the fifth largest in terms of population in South Africa (1.1 million). The city is also an important centre for the South African motor industry.
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| Safety on the Port Elizabeth: |
The Port Elizabeth is generally a safe area, although it is strongly advised that safety precautions be taken. Due to poverty in certain areas, crime and theft can be a problem. Try not to carry large amounts of cash and be discreet with expensive cameras, jewellery etc. Do not walk in deserted areas, especially after dark and always park in designated, well-lit areas. When driving, keep your doors locked and while parked lock your belongings in the boot rather than leave them in the open. Ask locals or your hosts to advise you on areas that should be avoided. |
Read more about the history of Port Elizabeth, interesing tourist attractions in Port Elizabeth and adventures in and around Port Elizabeth
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