REPUBLIC OF SOUTH AFRICA

Today everybody knows South Africa thanks to FIFA world cup. If you are planning to visit South Africa in near future here are some use full tips about the country. It is situated at the southern tip of the continent. It is known for diversity in cultures and languages, there are 11, constitutionally recognized languages among them Afrikaans and English are main languages.

 It is one of the founder members of African Union and has the largest economy. It is also founder member of UN is member of several treaties and organizations. About 80% of the population is black and rest is whites and other mixed.

 Historically it is old country, Portuguese came in 1487 at the southernmost point "Cape of good hope", Cape Town was established in 1652 and it became refreshment station. Several wars were fought for the possession of the country.

Discovery of diamonds and gold in 19th century resulted in two Boer wars and finally it became British colony. Policy of apartheid was followed and local as well as international community resented, locals protested and sanctions were imposed. On May 1961it became republic and separated from common wealth. Political movements started and Nelson Mandela and reverend Desmond tutu were the top leaders. In 1994 ANC won elections and formed govt. Several teething problems arise and caused immense inconveniences.

 RSA is 1220000 sq.kms and population is about 50million, currency is Rand. It has three capitals Cape Town, Pretoria and Bloemfontein. There are 9 provinces; it is 25th largest country in the world. RSA is classified as semi aired and there are considerable variations in the climate as well as topography.

RSA is rich in flora and fauna, it is sixth mega divers country, there are about 20thousand different plants which are 10% of the words known plants. Numerous mammals are preserved in the national parks and reserves.

 RSA is middle income country with abundant supply of resources, with well developed financial, legal, communication, energy and transport sectors. SA STOCK EXCHANGE is 20th in the world in GDP. A modern infrastructure supports an efficient distribution system. SA is 25th in the world in GDP. SA large is major energy producer and major tourist destinations which provide large income to the national exchequer, several countries including US, Germany, China, Japan, UK, and Spain are major trade partners.

SA exports agriculture produce beside minerals, wool, machinery, diamonds and gold. Science and technology sector is well developed and has produced many renowned personalities. Dr Christian Bernard has performed first heart transplant, Mark shuttle worth is first African in space. Culture and society is divers and diversity in food and cuisine is enjoyed by everybody.

Music is also famous, English and Afrikaans were the main languages but KWAITO has taken over radio and TV. 80% of the population is Christian of all faiths and rest includes other religions.

Sports --popular sports are football, cricket, basket ball and surfing and rugby, white population likes cricket and rugby while black population likes football. Many famous sports activities have taken place in the past, currently world famous FIFA (2010) world cup matches are being played here which watched by billions of fans all over the world, many hundred thousand people are visiting the country and bringing large amount of foreign currency. These matches are held first time in Africa.SA is proud host.

Education system is improving. There are several universities and institutions giving good education. But still there are many social problems including rapes and AIDS, unemployment is one of the major problems.

As tourism is one of the major industries SA operates a number of offices in Australia, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, USA, and Netherlands. SA is divided in 9 zones, which are famous tourist destinations and are famous for different activities. There are parks, falls, deserts, world heritage sites, VREDEFORTDOME, GAME RESERVES, etc. Blyde river canyon is third largest in the world. There are several other UNESCO world heritage sites.

Pre- arrange your VISA and Passport and check with proper authorities to avoid any in convenience. You can enter the country by flights, there are about 10 international airports, and you can come by trains, cars, buses and by boats, whichever is convenient. But beware of traffic and take all necessary precautions for your safety. Internal transport system is also well developed and all the types are available to suite every pocket.

Similarly boarding and lodging facilities are available to suite all sorts of economy. There are many hotels are available. Local wines, food, tea, many local dishes are very famous, coffee, beer, and fast foods are available.

Respect the local population, they are helpful but local guide is always recommended while visiting towns and unknown places. Communication is most modern and all sorts are available. Do some home work before starting your journey. You will enjoy your trip.