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An update from Evaneos
South Africa

Manners and customs in South Africa

South Africans are generally welcoming and good-natured. The pace of life is quite relaxed. So it is easy to communicate with them.

South African customs and traditions 

You need to speak English to make yourself understood in South Africa. It will be very useful to greet people appropriately as, apart from a handshake or a friendly tap on the shoulder, greetings include a "How are you?".

Tipping is a common practice in South Africa. In bars and restaurants, tips are generally 10%.

Car parks (in towns and supermarkets) and parking areas at the roadside are usually supervised by watchmen or guards. They will often ask you if you want them to keep an eye on your car while you are away. Of course you accept the offer. Give them a 2R tip or more depending on length of stay.

When you stop in a service station, the pump attendants will fill the tank, check oil and water levels and tyre pressure and clean your windscreen. This typically South African service will cost your 2R or more.

Tips for porters in airports is around 5R per bag. It is the same thing if you take a bus.

All these "little jobs" are the reflection of a society with a high level of poverty.

Anne Ribes