Anyone been to South Africa?

[pinotguy]

Yes - I spent three weeks there back in 2000. Managed to see quite a bit of the country. Started in Jo-'burg and, fortunately, did not spend a lot of time there. Just went through customs at the airport and rented cars. Drove north into the Free State and stayed for a week on a game preserve. Then drove to Durban in KZN for a few days. Flew from Durban to Cape Town and spent the remaining time in the wine country, just north of the city. It is a stunning country. Certainly it pays to be aware and cautious as a tourist. RSA does have its fair share of crime but to be honest, I'd feel less safe in Mexico these days than I would in most of Southern Africa.

Another country you might consider visiting, as an alternative, is Namibia. I was fortunate enough to go there last fall on a hunting safari. A lot less people and equally as beautiful.

Not sure when you're thinking about going, but I'd try and avoid July and August of this year because of the World Cup. Airfare, accommodation, car rental, etc. are sky-high right now.

PM me if you'd like to talk more. I love Africa and spend most of my waking moments thinking about getting back.