2010 WORLD CUP SOCCER - TRAVEL & ACCOMMODATION

Today, it is exactly 364 days to go to the next soccer world cup to be hosted in South Africa. There is a lot of excitement as we lead up to this historic moment, but unfortunately there are, as always, profits of doom with negative and incorrect reporting. I want to assure all people traveling to South Africa that it is safe and affordable.

Why South Africa
This is the economic powerhouse on the African continent; an investment in South Africa provides a further antidote to poverty and underdevelopment, and reduces the amount of future aid required. You visit Africa to explore its scenic beauty, wildlife and cultural diversity that is rivaled by very few around the globe. The exchange rate is around R8 to the US Dollar and accommodation, food and travel is cheap compared to the rest of the world. Prices will be higher during June and July as the world cup is a peak season event, but there are good deals if you get in early. Do some homework on this [see accommodation and travel below].

Infrastructure
I have been overseas on numerous occasions and have not really found better roads, sports stadiums or accommodation venues. Sure, our national rail network is not the best in terms of equipment and service, but there are luxury trains - Premier Classe ; Rovos Rail and the Blue Train. These trains run between Johannesburg , Cape Town, Durban and Port Elizabeth. The new bus rapid transport systems will be rolled out to be operational in Johannesburg and Cape Town. There are also a host of private operators who will be involved with transport. Johannesburg will also have the 1st leg of the Gautrain link operating from the International airport to the financial district in Sandton. The new stadiums are very close to completion and a number of them are upgraded already.

Safety
This is a very contentious issue, and depending on the person behind the pen, can differ widely. People often overreact to any situation. South Africa has more crime than any other developed country. It is when you analyze this information that you find how it is skewed - the developed area of South Africa is close to International standards, and this is where 99.9% of the people with GPS will find themselves; a much bigger than normal police contingent will be deployed in all major areas. I mention GPS for those who are going to drive themselves around South Africa to ensure they do not end up in rural South Africa where it is underdeveloped. The chance of running into problems is higher in these areas. If you are not sure travel with organized groups. You can be mugged in any large International city if you find yourself in the wrong area, so why do it here! You should have someone help you with the preparation and route if you are not familiar with the country. There are many specialists in South Africa who can do this for you. They know conditions better than any person overseas.


Travel & Accommodation
There are thousands of Guest houses and furnished apartments (condos) in South Africa; this is the most cost effective method for accommodation as hotels have all sold their inventory to FIFA and affiliated hospitality companies. This article is meant to provide information for smaller groups traveling to South Africa. Once your have your tickets secured (match & flights) it is important to find the right people to help you. Unfortunately there are establishments in South Africa who are trying to charge R6000 per room for a 4 star guesthouse (Cycad Lodge in Polekwane) ; there is no need to overpay as there are lots of places charging R2000-R2500 per room on a B & B basis for 2 people. That is less than US$160 per person including breakfast. Furnished apartments are cheaper and sleep up to 6 people generally. The average price for a 4 bed apartment is R900 per day ; 6 bed apartments are from R1350-R2000 depending on locations and level of luxury. Renting of apartments should be directly from the owner or manager; try to avoid intermediates if you can to ensure that what you buy is what you get!

Rent a car and drive yourself between Cape Town, Johannesburg, Pretoria, Rustenburg, Nelspruit, Durban, Port Elizabeth and Polekwane. Our freeways are very good and easy to navigate.

The final bit of information I wish to share is that it pays to be contrarian - do not use the high density, or popular, areas for the bulk of your stay. The town next door is often well geared to receive people and do not overcharge. Use this event as your annual vacation for a Safari and beach holiday in South Africa. This is when you will find best value.

There are many of us who want to make this event an African success!


Tertius - info@newfusion.co.za