Three British students that died in a South African bus crash have brought to life just how important it is to know the risks of travelling outside of the country.
Nelspruit authorities in the location of the accident stated that the bus driver had lost control of the bus along a winding road that is notorious to the area. With thousands of English fans excepted to travel to South Africa over the course of the World Cup, here is a guide to the top risks that visitors need to be aware of.
The first major problem is crime which is rampant throughout the entire country, but most violent offences take place in isolated areas and townships outside of the tourist spots. With this in mind, passports in particular need to be watched, especially at travel terminals.
Over the last few years an increasing amount of cases have been noted in which criminals followed tourists via vehicle from the Johannesburg airport to their destination, which has prompted authorities to remind tourists to be careful while leaving the airport.
The next concern is driving since like the bus crash, South African driving results in many fatal accidents. Tourists should know that the country is quite large so all trips should be properly planned beforehand.
On highways tourists should be vigilant of the fact that overtaking occurs on all lanes including the shoulder and at four way stops the first driver to arrive has the right to move.
The general roads of South Africa are decent quality in cities but in remote cities there are many potholes and sticking to the speed limit is a most.
Health care while abroad is also a concern with high standard care in developed areas that is costly and basic care in rural areas. Visitors should be aware that rabies, TB, cholera, and malaria are all very common to South Africa and that they should seek care immediately if side effects such as diarrhoea are present.