Useful travel advice for Bloemfontein

Keep in mind this useful travel advice for Bloemfontein. 

General Information

Bloemfontein, the City of Roses, is the judicial capital of South Africa. Its situated right in the middle of the South Africa map in the Free State, a province characterised by fields of maize, sunflowers and regular windmill sightings. The population of the city is around half a million and the population density is low, which makes driving in Bloem (Bloemfontein) a breeze compared to normal city driving!

Driving

South Africa has an excellent road system (particularly the national roads) and Bloem is relatively easy to navigate. A GPS (such as a Garmin) or a reputable map is a good idea for getting around the city hassle-free. There may be road maintenance taking place in various areas, so be prepared to wait every now and then. As in most cities around the world, its wise to be attentive and careful when driving in town. Some valuable travel advice for Bloemfontein is: Be aware when returning to or leaving your car. Get in and leave immediately; dont wait around in parking lots. Lock car doors and keep windows up. Dont stop for hitchhikers or to help stranded motorists. Hijackers and robbers use this as a ploy to prey on kind people who stop to help. Drive on main roads that are well lit, and avoid the city centre at night. If driving in a quiet area at night, do not stop completely at red robots (traffic lights). Slow down well before the robot and keep moving at a slow speed. If there are people loitering nearby or someone walks towards your car, drive through the red light. Rather pay a fine than chance a bad experience. Using common sense will give you a good opportunity for a pleasant driving experience in Bloem.

Languages

There are 11 official languages in South Africa, but most business, services and tourism is conducted in English.

Electricity

South African electricity is 220/230 volts AC at 50 cycles/second. Plugs are specialised round three or two pin plugs; so you may want to bring an adapter or buy one locally.

Safety and Security

As in most cities, avoid wearing your expensive jewellery and keep valuables such as laptops and cameras as much out of sight as possible (whether on your person, in a car, or at your place of accommodation). Walk around in groups and dont spend time in isolated areas, especially at night.

Tipping and Gratuities

Another useful piece of travel advice for Bloemfontein is knowing how, when and who to tip. Waiting on tables is often a livelihood in South Africa. If a gratuity is not included on your bill, a tip of 10% or more (according to the service youve received) is common practice. You will often find car guards watching over parking lots or street parking. Reputable guards are of adult age and wear a jacket or shirt identifying them as official car guards, usually yellow. If you are unsure as to whether the brightly vested person near your car is in fact a car guard or a chancer; ask a nearby security guard or shop owner. When you are returning to your vehicle it is customary to tip the car guard for watching your car. In Bloem, R2-R5 is an average tip.

Remember this travel advice for Bloemfontein for a safe and happy holiday.