Bank Hours: Banks operate 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. weekdays and 8:30 to 11 a.m. Saturday.

Automated teller machines (ATMs) are found in towns, shopping malls, gas stations, some major hotels, city streets, and some food retail outlets, countrywide; many international banks have branches in major cities.

The Suth African Rand, the name of the national currency, is divided into 100cents.

Safety Tips: As with travel to anywhere in the world, it’s always sensible to be cautious. Be observant, and avoid displaying expensive cameras or cash.

Deposit valuables in your hotel’s safety deposit box. Do not leave your baggage or hotel key unattended.

Check out with local hosts the areas that are best avoided walking in after dark.

When returning to your hotel late in the evening, use the main entrance. Lock car doors and keep windows closed at traffic lights.

 Keep personal items and luggage unseen in the trunk. Plan your route in advance and use maps.

Park in well-lit areas and do not pick up strangers.

I offer foreign currency services, so you can prepurchase South African Rand before your departure.

Information credit to South African Tourism.