Benoni Travel Tips. Money, Safety, Culture

Local SIM Cards

South Africa has several major mobile network providers: Vodacom, MTN, Cell C, and Telkom. All cover urban areas like Benoni.

Important Information

Purchase at O.R. Tambo International Airport or major malls.
RICA registration using your passport and proof of address.
Pre-paid SIM cards deliver cost-effective options for visitors.

Internet Access

Wi-Fi is widely available in Benoni. Most hotels, guesthouses, restaurants, and shopping malls offer free Wi-Fi access.

Connectivity Options

Mobile data coverage is good in urban areas.
Cafes may offer Wi-Fi, sometimes with a small purchase.
Airalo for eSIM: Airalo eSIM. Solis Wi-Fi for portable devices: Solis Wi-Fi.

Language & Translation

South Africa has 11 official languages. English serves as the main language of business and is widely spoken in urban areas.

Navigating Languages

Most individuals in hospitality and retail speak English.
Translation apps like Google Translate are handy.
Learning basic phrases shows respect.

Phrases

A few important expressions to assist you.

Common Greetings

Hello: Sawubona (Zulu) / Molo (Xhosa) / Hallo (Afrikaans).
Thank you: Ngiyabonga (Zulu) / Enkosi (Xhosa) / Dankie (Afrikaans).
Please: Ngicela (Zulu) / Khawundincede (Xhosa) / Asseblief (Afrikaans).

Postal Services

South African Post Office SAPO

Branches available in Benoni.
Service might not be reliable for international shipping.
Delays and occasional lost items occur.
Rosetta Stone for language learning: Rosetta Stone.

Private Couriers

DHL, FedEx, or Aramex.
More reliable and speedyer international shipping options.
Higher cost involved.
Recommended for significant documents or valuable parcels.

RICA Registration

When purchasing a SIM card, allocate ample time for the RICA registration process. It can sometimes be slow.

Daily Operations & Customs

Plan your activities around typical business hours and local etiquette.

Business Hours

Stores in Malls: 9:00 AM - 7:00 PM (Mon-Sat), 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM (Sun).

Dining Hours

Lunch: 12:00 PM - 2:00/3:00 PM. Dinner: 6:00 PM - 9:00/10:00 PM. Some cafes open earlier.

Banking & ATMs

Banks: 9:00 AM - 3:30 PM (weekdays), 8:30 AM - 11:00 AM (Saturdays). ATMs available 24/7.

Public Holidays

South Africa observes 12 public holidays annually. On these days, banks, government offices, and many businesses will be closed.

Holiday Schedules

Retail stores and hospitality operate reduced hours.
Some smaller businesses may have reduced hours in Dec/Jan.
Check the public holiday calendar when planning.

Local Etiquette

A firm, direct handshake is a common greeting. Greet verbally before engaging in conversation. Direct eye contact is generally respectful.

Cultural Norms

Dress is generally casual; smart casual for upscale restaurants.
Modest dress (shoulders, knees covered) appreciated at religious sites.
10-15% tip is customary for good service in restaurants.

Important Considerations

Photography & Privacy

Always ask for permission before photographing individuals.
Respect any requests not to be photographed.
Avoid photographing government or military sites.

Sensitive Topics

Refrain from talking about that are overtly political or sensitive.
Do not make assumptions about individuals.
Engage in respectful dialogue.

Plan Ahead

Always check the current year's public holiday calendar when organizing your trip, as some dates shift annually.

Accessibility & Inclusion

Information for travelers with mobility challenges and other needs.

Infrastructure

Accessibility infrastructure is generally limited, especially in older buildings and local public transport.

Modern Facilities

Newer shopping malls (e.g., Lakeside Mall), contemporary hotels.
The Gautrain system often delivers accessibility.
Includes ramps, lifts, and accessible restrooms.

Accessible Attractions

The Gautrain is designed to be wheelchair-friendly. Major shopping malls typically have ramps and lifts.

Important

Call attractions ahead of time to confirm features.
Many older historical sites may have limited access.
Limited specialized services for the visually or hearing impaired.

LGBTQ+ & Gender

South Africa has one of the world's most liberal constitutions, protecting LGBTQ+ rights, including same-sex marriage.

Societal Attitudes

Generally accepted in urban areas like Benoni.
Attitudes differ in more conservative or rural areas.
Gender equality is constitutionally enshrined.

Resources

Websites like "Accessing South Africa" or disability advocacy groups may offer current information.

Direct Contact

Contact accommodation and attractions directly.
Confirm accessibility before your trip.
This secures a smoother experience.

Important Note

Confirm Access

Always confirm accessibility directly with your accommodation.
Confirm with whatever attractions you plan to visit.
Avoid unexpected challenges.

Emergency Planning

Travel insurance is always a good idea.
Keep emergency contacts handy.
Use compensair for flight compensation compensation: Compensair.

Airport Lounge Access

Priority Pass

Offers frequent travelers independent airport lounge access.
Available at airports around the world.
A way to travel in comfort.

Benefits

Enjoy Wi-Fi, refreshments, and a quiet space.
Escape the airport crowds.
Learn more about Priority Pass.

Important Tip

Always confirm accessibility directly with your accommodation and any attractions you plan to visit. This prevents unexpected difficulties and secures a smoother experience.

Responsible Practices

Travel with consciousness and make a positive impact.

Environmental Awareness

Protect Benoni's natural spaces and information. Your actions support broader national conservation efforts.

Conservation

Supports broader national conservation efforts.
Respect local dams and lakes by not littering.
Dispose of all waste responsibly.

Waste & Water

Reduce your environmental footprint during your visit.

Sustainable Choices

Recycling services at shopping centers.
Minimize waste with reusable bottles, cups, bags.
South Africa is a water-scarce country, use water mindfully.

Eco-Travel Options

Choose sustainable accommodation and tours.

Green Choices

Research accommodation establishments with environmental practices.
Inquire about operators prioritizing sustainable practices.
Ecobnb for eco-friendly accommodation: Ecobnb.

Ethical Shopping

Support local artisans and businesses.

Conscious Purchases

Purchase locally produced goods and crafts.
Look for fair trade certifications.
Avoid items produced unethically or involving endangered species.

Make a Difference

Consider contributing to reputable carbon offset programs for your flights. Terrapass is a carbon offset provider: Terrapass.

Benoni Travel Tips