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Did the Nca Save South Africa From a Fate Similar to the Us?


Publisher: Sean Wheller
Date: 2007-10-18
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Sean Wheller

Many members of the Property Investor Network have expressed their concern with the newspaper headlines surrounding the NCA and also the fact that several banks seems to have suffered as a result.

To better understand the effect and bigger picture, let's look briefly at the situations in other leading property markets, such as the US and UK. This will help put a perspective on the South African market.

Clearly, in the mature mortgage markets, led by the UK and USA, as the property markets have become more and more highly leveraged, banks have had to constantly look at the terms and conditions on which they lend – and like any business they are under pressure to increase sales.

This has led to self certified bonds, buy to let bonds with just 100% and even at times no rental Coverage requirements, and bonds based on 6-8 times people’s salaries or over 30+ years; in other words stretching lending criteria to the limits in certain areas of the market.

As long as house prices rise this is fine, as repossessions will save the money lent by the banks in the even of problems. Buyers who are unable to service bonds are not a cause for concern because, in an up market, banks can be assured of repossession and the ability to sell the property at value greater than the outstanding Bond amount.

However, as the US property market wobbles, some market areas have experienced falls in property values of up to 15-20% - (primarily in the speculative markets). This obviously results in bankd repossessions where the bankers sit with properties that are valued at less than the bonds taken out on them. Not a very good situation to be in.

It is said that in the US the areas that have suffered the most were the sub prime markets where lenders looking to increase their business had lent too easily. It appears that extensive credit was given to people with already poor credit histories. Another, known factor is that in the US the banks do lend to people with poor credit history.

Will this happen in South Africa?

There has already been panic about the state of the property market due to the NCA and increase of interest Rates.

Though selling credit in South Africa has become a trend so dangerous that the NCA had to be instated. The mortgage lending business in South Africa still conducts itself in a very conservative manner. Mortgages have never been liberally provided to just anyone at any house price without evaluation. Prior to the NCA, bankers regularly declined to give people mortgages based on factors such as affordability or poor credit history or simple because the asking price was much greater than the value of the property.

he South African mortgage market is not as mature as that of the US and the UK markets. As a result there is much scope for growth in the industry and much elasticity remaining in many household disposable income. So the market is not as saturated, mature or over exposed as the US and UK.

The NCA may have caused many problems in the credit market. It may take a few years for us to fully understand and see the impacts thereof. However, the additional responsibilities and regulation placed on lenders, may also have put in place the checks to saved South Africa from a similar fate as the US in the property market in the long term.

With the lending being at all time high in South Africa, if the NCA did not exist or come into affect when it did, who knows, maybe South Africa would have ended up in the same boat as the US, with over extended buyers and mortgage bonds FAR above property values. The verdict is still out on whether or not the NCA has been a good or bad thing for the country.


 

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Traveling in South Africa: Johannesburg, Cape Town and Durban

Michael Thomson 2007-09-17
Title: Traveling in South Africa: Johannesburg, Cape Town and Durban

Johannesburg
Jo'burg, as it's known, is the largest city in South Africa, its busy bustling streets lack real beauty. But you'll be rewarded with wonderful experiences of the real South Africa and the climate is glorious.

Transport: how to get there and around
There is an international airport in Johannesburg which serves domestic as well as international destinations. There is also a bus service that connects with nearby countries.

Weather
The climate in South Africa has great regional variations. Generally hot though it depends on altitude. Summer tends to be very hot in the low lands; upper lands are pleasantly warm but subject to rain and mist. Winters are mild all over the country except at the highest altitudes which are subject to frosts and occasional snowfalls.

Accommodation: Luxury to budget stays
The internet can offer some of the best information on the cost, range and location of hotels in Johannesburg .

Attractions & Events
*To experience the rich cultures of South Africa that were oppressed for so long, be in Johannesburg throughout September and October for the Arts Alive Festival.

*In April the National Exhibition Centre holds the Rand Easter Show.

*September brings the Jazz Festival and also the Gay Pride march is on the last Saturday of the month.
Cape Town
Cape Town is relaxed and laid back, especially in comparison to Johannesburg. The stunning Table Mountain overlooks the city of beautiful landscapes and beaches. It's a welcoming place, too, with a vibrant cultural life especially for music.

Transport: how to get there and around
Cape Town International airport has many direct flights from around the world. The city has a main train station where you can board both trains and buses. For help getting around town, ‘Rikki’ transporters, Taxis and buses are available.

Weather
The best time to visit is during the summer months December to March. It can be around 26 C in the city but this is cooled off a by the Cape Doctor – also known as the wind!

Accommodation: Luxury to budget stays
The internet can offer some of the best information on the cost, range and location of hotels in Cape Town .

Attractions & Events
*The Cape Town Arts Festival is an outdoor event during the summer month of January.

*The Good Food and Wine Festival is held in June.

*There are a few events taking place in December. In the Company’s Garden you can experience Carols by Candlelight. A more flamboyant event with outrageous costumes is the Cape Town Queer Event.

Durban
Durban is a modern city with a lively night scene and plenty to keep you entertained from taverns, discos, theatres and clubs. The proud Zulu culture can be felt throughout Durban which boasts tropical beaches and jungle.

Transport: how to get there and around
International and domestic flights are served by Durban International Airport. You can reach the main South African cities with by train such as Cape Town and Johannesburg. Rickshaws, Taxi’s and minibuses will get you around the city itself.

Weather
Overall the climate is fairly mild all year round. During May and October there is more chance of rain and the winters bring an evening chill.

Accommodation: Luxury to budget stays
The internet can offer some of the best information on the cost, range and location of hotels in Durban.

Attractions & Events
*Durban has a literature festival in March at the University of KwaZulu-Natal.

*Natal holds a Marathon in June which goes through the valley of a thousand hills.

*The Centre for Creative Arts holds the International Film Festival in June.


 

South Africa Places To Visit - Attractions and Destinations

Gokhan Ozbal 2008-03-11
Title: South Africa Places To Visit - Attractions and Destinations

It is said that the written history of South Africa begins with the arrival of the Portuguese. Because of the early immigration from Europe, South Africa has experienced a different history and there is no one culture existing in the country. In other words, it has ethnic diversity. South Africa is located at the southernmost region of Africa and owns a long coastline. As you can watch South Africa videos existing in travelovideo.com, great natural wealth and breathtaking landscapes, kinds of activities and various opportunities call people all around the world for a different experience.

All over the South Africa, there are travel attractions and destinations for travelers to visit. Pretoria is the capital city of the country which is also an important industrial center. The National Zoological Gardens of South Africa is the national zoo of South Africa situated in the city of Pretoria. Among other major travel cities, there are Durban, Cape Town, Johannesburg, Port Elizabeth, Bloemfontein.

Cape Town’s beaches are very popular. Cape Town's Table Mountain is among the best places to see in South Africa. It provides breathtaking views over the city and its beaches. Forests, lakes, lagoons, waterways and rivers of Garden Route is like a natural theme park and an uniquely scenic place. The Cape Winelands with cheese and wine tasting tours will make the trips more delicious. In this place, some of the best wines in the world are produced.

Johannesburg is known to be the most popular city in South Africa. The city is a transit point for connecting flights. Historical and art museums of the city attract visitors. Durban is a major holiday resort which also has a number of attractions and reserves to visit such as Beachwood Mangroves Nature Reserve, Burman Bush Nature Reserve. Its seaside attracts people who can also enjoy kinds of sport facilities. Port Elizabeth known for its sunshine, sandy beaches, and thriving nightlife is also visited for its parks and reserves around.Sowete owns a number of historical sights.

Sun City as one of the South African Travel Attractions offers its guests entertainment, relaxation. multitude of attractions and activities. At Sun City, visitors enjoy a day trip at the Pilanesberg National Park. Here balloon safaris are traditional. Moreover, one can experience elephant back riding and quad biking.

South Africa's most popular nature reserve is the Kruger National Park. Due to its numerous habitats and diversity of animal species, the park is an enormous wildlife reserve. It is regarded as one of Africa's top three safari destinations. It offers African travellers a taste of safari experience. It is also South Africa's best bird-watching location. Here you have the chance to meet the Big Five (elephant, lion, leopard, rhino and buffalo)

Hermanus is famous for its being the world's top land-based whale watching destination. It hosts a very popular Whale Festival. The Drakensberg (Dragon Mountains) is a perfect place for nature photography.

There are numerous natural and game reserves, national parks, historical places, charming landscapes in South Africa. And such a variety results in many opportunities to get involved in. Moreover, luxurious hotels make one’s holiday as comfortable as possible.

In other words, South Africa offers excellent safaris, beautiful beaches, vibrant cities, different cultures, and for sure world class wines.

South Africa is completely an adventurous place for travelers. It serves you wild life with its reality. Be sure that you have your armed guy with you and enjoy being together with creatures that you have known by books till that time. We have talked about some places but there are more places to be seen and more adventure to experience in South Africa. Also, Travelovideo will show you what waits in South Africa by its video archieve.

- Copyright © 2008 Travelovideo.com: Online Travel Videos -

Not: Feel free to use this article on your website or ezine with the information about author/website info & links is included. (URLs in should be set as hyperlinks)

About the Author:

Gokhan Ozbal is the content developer for Travelovideo.com - the place to watch travel videos online for free. Visit Travelovideo.com to view South African safari video and places to visit in South Africa.


 

10 Reasons to visit South Africa

James Burrows 2007-09-20
Title: 10 Reasons to visit South Africa
It certainly is South Africa, if you want to see “world in one country”. South Africa is really a vast country with widely varying landscapes, and ethnically diverse communities speaking different languages. Located at the southern tip of Africa, South Africa is the country full of breathtaking beauties and exciting activities.

South Africa is one of most unique and exciting tourist destinations. It is known for its envious climate, natural wonders, beautiful coastline, numerous unspoiled beaches and incredibly diverse marine life. You can surely find numerous reasons to visit South Africa, but here are top 10 reasons for you. Kruger National Park (Reason No. 1), one of the top 10 attractions of SA, is the largest game reserve in South Africa. Kruger Park, covering 18,989 square km (7,332 sq mi) and extending 350 km (217 mi) from north to south and 60 km (37 mi) from east to west, shelters over 517 species of birds, and 147 species of mammals. You can find Big Five game animals here. You can self-drive, or enjoy guided tours to explore Kruger.

Cape Town (Reason No. 2) is the most popular tourist destination in South African. Cape Town is often regarded as one of the world's most beautiful cities because of its geographical exquisiteness. It is famous for its harbor and its natural setting in the Cape floral kingdom, including some of the well-known attractions, such as Cape Point, Table Mountain, Table Mountain National Park, Boulders Beach, Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens showcasing South Africa's fabulous floral heritage. You can also enjoy whale watching in Cape Town.

Durban (Reason No. 3) is a popular tourist centre famous for warm subtropical climate and beaches. You can really have great time at Florida Road, which is definitely the most vibrant street full of restaurants, bars, cafes, boutiques, and shopping centers. Other attractions of Durban include City Hall, Berea, Umhlanga Rocks, Victoria Street Market, Essenwood Craft Market, Durban Botanical Gardens, and The Golden Mile beach.

Garden Route (Reason No. 4) is a popular and scenic stretch of the southern coast of South Africa. Featuring dramatic river cut gorges, beautiful beaches, rocky headlands and deep tangled forests, the Garden Route stretches from Mossel Bay in the Western Cape to the Storms River that is crossed along the N2 coastal highway over the Paul Sauer Bridge in the extreme eastern reach of the Western Cape. It includes towns such as Mossel Bay, George, Knysna, Oudtshoorn, Plettenberg Bay and Nature's Valley.

Drakensberg (Reason No. 5) or Dragons Mountain (Afrikaans) is a mesmerizing mountain range that is cloaked in emerald green in summer and donned with golden and snow cap in winter. Located in the eastern part of South Africa, the dramatic mountain range of Drakensberg is an awesome scenic destination with beautiful rock art, some great places for staying, fly fishing, golfing, etc.

Namaqualand (Reason No. 6), an arid region of South Africa, extending along the west coast over 600 miles and covering a total area of 170,000 square miles/440,000 km², is one of the major attractions of South Africa. It is very popular with both local and international tourists during early springtime flowering season, when for a short period a normally arid area turns valley of bright colored, dainty flowers, such as daisies.

Port Elizabeth (Reason No. 7) is a popular city in the Eastern Cape on the Indian Ocean coast half-way between Cape Town and Durban. Located at the end of the picturesque Garden Route, Port Elizabeth is one of South Africa's major tourist destinations. The city is the destination known for wonderful beaches, and excellent diving, surfing, kitesurfing and windsurfing sites. Some of the attractions of Port Elizabeth are – Nelson Mandela Metropolitan Art Museum, Wezandla African Arts and Crafts Gallery, No 7 Castle Hill Museum, Alexandria Dune Fields, and Bayworld, Donkin Reserve.

Cape Winelands (Reason No. 8), the region of the Western Cape Province, offers you one of the most fantastic sites in South Africa. Constantia, Stellenbosch, Franschhoek, Paarl, Robertson and Wellington are the most popular wine regions. You are guaranteed to taste some of the finest foods and wines, here.

African Culture (Reason No. 9) is one of the major tourist attractions of South Africa. South Africa offers you wonderful visual feast of tribal costumes, bare-breasted dancing girls and animal-skin-clad warriors brandishing stabbing spears and singing rousing war songs. It lets you know the living ways of several tribal or aboriginal people of the land.

South African Beaches (Reason No. 10) are one of the top rated beaches in the world. You can find beaches for every season and every reason, including beautiful beaches, long beaches, lonely beaches, crowded beaches, sexy beaches, etc. Some of the top rated South African beaches include Cape Vidal, Durban beaches, Umhlanga, Willard Beach (Ballito), Marina Beach, Margate Beach, Ramsgate Beach, Humewood Beach (Port Elizabeth), Mdumbe Beach, Lookout Beach (Plettenberg Bay), Strand Beach (False Bay), Grotto Beach, Sandy Bay, Camps Bay, Clifton Beaches, and Elands Bay.

Author writes for Holiday Velvet, a website providing listings for hotels, apartments, and Garden Route Villas for your South Africa holiday.


 

A Warning For America From South Africa

David Ben-Ariel 2006-07-28
Title: A Warning For America From South Africa
January 2005 A Warning For America From South Africa

By Gemma Meyer (Gemma Meyer is the pseudonym of a South African journalist. She and her husband, a former conservative member of parliament, still reside in South Africa.)

People used to say that South Africa was 20 years behind the rest of the Western world. Television, for example, came late to South Africa (but so did pornography and the gay rights movement).

Today, however, South Africa may be the grim model of the future Western world, for events in America reveal trends chillingly similar to those that destroyed our country.

America's structures are Western. Your Congress, your lobbying groups, your free speech, and the way ordinary Americans either get involved or ignore politics are peculiarly Western, not the way most of the world operates. But the fact that only about a third of Americans deem it important to vote is horrifying in light of how close you are to losing your Western character.

Writing letters to the press, manning stands at county fairs, hosting fund-raising dinners, attending rallies, setting up conferences, writing your Congressman - that is what you know, and what you are comfortable with. Those are the political methods you've created for yourselves to keep your country on track and to ensure political accountability.

But woe to you if - or more likely, when - the rules change. White Americans may soon find themselves unable or unwilling to stand up to challenge the new political methods that will be the inevitable result of the ethnic metamorphosis now taking place in America. Unable to cope with the new rules of the game - violence, mob riots, intimidation through accusations of racism, demands for proportionality based on racial numbers, and all the other social and political weapons used by the have-nots to bludgeon treasure and power from the haves - Americans, like others before them, will no doubt cave in. They will compromise away their independence and ultimately their way of life.

That is exactly what happened in South Africa. I know, because I was there and I saw it happen.

Faced with revolution in the streets, strikes, civil unrest and the sheer terror and murder practiced by Nelson Mandela's African National Congress (ANC), the white government simply capitulated in order to achieve "peace."

Westerners need peace. They need order and stability. They are builders and planners. But what we got was the peace of the grave for our society.

The Third World is different - different peoples with different pasts and different cultures. Yet Westerners continue to mistake the psychology of the Third World and its peoples. Sierra Leone and Zimbabwe are perfect examples of those mistakes. Sierra Leone is in perpetual civil war, and Zimbabwe - once the thriving, stable Rhodesia - is looting the very people (the white men) who feed the country. Yet Westerners do not admit that the same kind of savagery could come to America when enough immigrants of the right type assert themselves. The fact is, Americans are sitting ducks for Third World exploitation of the Western conscience of compassion.

Those in the West who forced South Africa to surrender to the ANC and its leaders did not consider Africa to be the dangerous, corrupt, and savage place it is now in Zimbabwe and South Africa. Those Western politicians now have a similar problem looming on their own doorsteps: the demand for power and treasure from the non-Western peoples inside the realm.

It is already too late for South Africa, but not for America if enough people strengthen their spine and take on the race terrorists, the armies of the "politically correct" and, most dangerous of all, the craven politicians who believe "compassionate conservatism" will buy them a few more votes, a few more days of peace.

White South Africans, you should remember, have been in that part of Africa for the same amount of time whites have inhabited North America; yet ultimately South Africans voted for their own suicide. We are not so very different from you.

We lost our country through skillful propaganda, pressure from abroad (not least from the U.S.A.), unrelenting charges of "oppression" and "racism," and the shrewd assessment by African tyrants that the white man has many Achilles' heels, the most significant of which are his compassion, his belief in the "equality of man," and his "love your neighbor" philosophy - none of which are part of the Third World's history.

The mainline churches played a big role in the demise of Western influence throughout Africa, too; especially in South Africa. Today's tyrants were yesterday's mission-school proteges. Many dictators in Africa were men of the cloth. They knew their clerical collars would deflect criticism and obfuscate their real aims, which had nothing whatever to do with the "brotherhood of man."

Other tyrants, like the infamous Idi Amin, were trained and schooled by the whites themselves, at Oxford, Cambridge, and Harvard. After receiving the best from the West, they unleashed a resentful bloodlust against their benefactors.

From what I have seen and read thus far, I fear Americans will capitulate just as we did. Americans are, generally, a soft lot. They don't want to quarrel or obstruct the claims of those who believe they were wronged. They like peace and quiet, and they want to compromise and be nice.

A television program that aired in South Africa showed a town meeting somewhere in Southern California where people met to complain about falling standards in the schools. Whites who politely spoke at the meeting clearly resented the influx of Mexican immigrants into their community. When a handful of Chicanos at the back of the hall shouted and waved their hands at them, the whites simply shrunk back into their seats rather than tell the noisemakers to shut up. They didn't want to quarrel.

In America, the courts are still the final arbiters of society's laws. But what will happen when your future majority refuses to abide by court rulings - as in Zimbabwe. What will happen when the new majority says the judges are racists, and that they refuse to acknowledge "white man's justice"? What will happen when the courts are filled with their people, or their sympathizers? In California, Proposition 187 has already been overturned.

What will you do when the future non-white majority decides to change the names of streets and cities? What will you do when they no longer want to use money that carries the portraits of old, dead white "racists" and slave owners? Will you cave in, like you did on flying the Confederate flag? What about the national anthem? Your official language?

Don't laugh. When the "majority" took over in South Africa, the first targets were our national symbols.

In another generation, America may well face what Africa is now experiencing - invasions of private land by the "have-nots;" the decline in health care quality; roads and buildings in disrepair; the banishment of your history from the education of the young; the revolutionization of your justice system.

In South Africa today, only 9 percent of murderers end up in jail. Court dockets are regularly purchased and simply disappear. Magistrates can be bribed as can the prison authorities, making escapes commonplace. Vehicle and airplane licenses are regularly purchased, and forged school and university certificates are routine.

What would you think of the ritual slaughter of animals in your neighbor's backyard? How do you clean up the blood and entrails that litter your suburban streets? How do you feel about the practice of witchcraft, in which the parts of young girls and boys are needed for "medicinal" purposes? How do you react to the burning of witches?

Don't laugh. All that is quite common in South Africa today.

Don't imagine that government officials caught with their fingers in the till will be punished. Excuses - like the need to overcome generations of white racism - will be found to exonerate the guilty.

In fact, known criminals will be voted into office because of a racial solidarity among the majority that doesn't exist among the whites. When Ian Smith of the old Rhodesia tried to stand up to the world, white South African politicians were among the Westerners pressuring him to surrender.

When Robert Mugabe of Zimbabwe murders his political opponents, ignores unfavorable court decisions, terrorizes the population and siphons off millions from the state treasury for himself and his friends, South Africa's new President Thabo Mbeki holds his hand and declares his support. That just happened a few weeks ago.

Your tax dollars will go to those who don't earn and don't pay. In South Africa, organizations that used to have access to state funds such as old age homes, the arts, and veterans' services, are simply abandoned.

What will happen is that Western structures in America will be either destroyed from without, or transformed from within, used to suit the goals of the new rulers. And they will reign either through terror, as in Zimbabwe today, or exert other corrupt pressures to obtain, or buy votes. Once power is in the hands of aliens, don't expect loyalty or devotion to principle from those whose jobs are at stake. One of the most surprising and tragic components of the disaster in South Africa is how many previously anti-ANC whites simply moved to the other side.

Once you lose social, cultural, and political dominance, there is no getting it back again.

Unfortunately, your habits and values work against you. You cannot fight terror and street mobs with letters to your Congressmen. You cannot fight accusations of racism with prayer meetings. You cannot appeal to the goodness of your fellow man when the fellow man despises you for your weaknesses and hacks off the arms and legs of his political opponents.

To survive, Americans must never lose the power they now enjoy to people from alien cultures. Above all, don't put yourselves to the test of fighting only when your backs are against the wall. You will probably fail.

Millions around the world want your good life. But make no mistake: They care not for the high-minded ideals of Thomas Jefferson and George Washington, and your Constitution. What they want are your posessions, your power, and your status.

And they already know that their allies among you, the "human rights activists," the skillful lawyers and the left-wing politicians will fight for them, and not for you. They will exploit your compassion and your Christian charity, and your good will.

They have studied you, Mr. and Mrs. America, and they know your weaknesses well.

They know what to do.

Do you?

**************************

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David Ben-Ariel is a Christian-Zionist writer and author of Beyond Babylon: Europe's Rise and Fall. With a focus on the Middle East and Jerusalem, his analytical articles help others improve their understanding of that troubled region. Check out the Beyond Babylon blog.


 

Traveling in South Africa: Johannesburg, Cape Town and Durban

Alistair White 2007-09-17
Title: Traveling in South Africa: Johannesburg, Cape Town and Durban
Johannesburg
Jo'burg, as it's known, is the largest city in South Africa, its busy bustling streets lack real beauty. But you'll be rewarded with wonderful experiences of the real South Africa and the climate is glorious.

Transport: how to get there and around
There is an international airport in Johannesburg which serves domestic as well as international destinations. There is also a bus service that connects with nearby countries.

Weather
The climate in South Africa has great regional variations. Generally hot though it depends on altitude. Summer tends to be very hot in the low lands; upper lands are pleasantly warm but subject to rain and mist. Winters are mild all over the country except at the highest altitudes which are subject to frosts and occasional snowfalls.

Accommodation: Luxury to budget stays
The internet can offer some of the best information on the cost, range and location of hotels in Johannesburg .

Attractions & Events
*To experience the rich cultures of South Africa that were oppressed for so long, be in Johannesburg throughout September and October for the Arts Alive Festival.

*In April the National Exhibition Centre holds the Rand Easter Show.

*September brings the Jazz Festival and also the Gay Pride march is on the last Saturday of the month.
Cape Town
Cape Town is relaxed and laid back, especially in comparison to Johannesburg. The stunning Table Mountain overlooks the city of beautiful landscapes and beaches. It's a welcoming place, too, with a vibrant cultural life especially for music.

Transport: how to get there and around
Cape Town International airport has many direct flights from around the world. The city has a main train station where you can board both trains and buses. For help getting around town, ‘Rikki’ transporters, Taxis and buses are available.

Weather
The best time to visit is during the summer months December to March. It can be around 26 C in the city but this is cooled off a by the Cape Doctor – also known as the wind!

Accommodation: Luxury to budget stays
The internet can offer some of the best information on the cost, range and location of hotels in Cape Town .

Attractions & Events
*The Cape Town Arts Festival is an outdoor event during the summer month of January.

*The Good Food and Wine Festival is held in June.

*There are a few events taking place in December. In the Company’s Garden you can experience Carols by Candlelight. A more flamboyant event with outrageous costumes is the Cape Town Queer Event.

Durban
Durban is a modern city with a lively night scene and plenty to keep you entertained from taverns, discos, theatres and clubs. The proud Zulu culture can be felt throughout Durban which boasts tropical beaches and jungle.

Transport: how to get there and around
International and domestic flights are served by Durban International Airport. You can reach the main South African cities with by train such as Cape Town and Johannesburg. Rickshaws, Taxi’s and minibuses will get you around the city itself.

Weather
Overall the climate is fairly mild all year round. During May and October there is more chance of rain and the winters bring an evening chill.

Accommodation: Luxury to budget stays
The internet can offer some of the best information on the cost, range and location of hotels in Durban.

Attractions & Events
*Durban has a literature festival in March at the University of KwaZulu-Natal.

*Natal holds a Marathon in June which goes through the valley of a thousand hills.

*The Centre for Creative Arts holds the International Film Festival in June.

 

Safari In South Africa

G. Chadwick 2007-04-14
Title: Safari In South Africa
When it comes to travel in South Africa, there are many things for you to see and do. The first thing however that you should keep in mind is that South Africa is a nation in which you might run into a lot of problems. Like any African country, you should check with your own home country to make sure that there aren’t any tourist restrictions on South Africa or on you from South Africa. Once you have checked with your home country, and everything is set to go, there are several things that you should know before you continue to travel to South Africa.

First of all the most important place for you to see is the biggest city, Johannesburg. While it isn’t the capital, it is a place that is full of much cultural diversity and many beautiful and historical sites. You are going to want to spend most of your time there, because this is where you can truly learn about South Africa and talk to people who know the history surrounding this beautiful country.

In Johannesburg, which is nicknamed Egoli, you can visit the capital of the province. You can see the mine dumps, which stand from South Africa’s richest past, and also look at the modern Architecture. In Sandton, you can visit a business, commercial and residential district. This is known as the richest square mile in all of Africa, so it is the financial hub of South Africa. About 50 KM north of Johannesburg you can visit Pretoria, where you will find that City of Tshwane Metropolitan Municipality, which began in December of 2002. This is of great interest because it is a newly formed group of townships, an experiment that you can witness taking place. Don’t forget to visit Dinokeng, which is north east of Joburg and Tshwane. This is a region that has natural, cultural and historical attractions that you can visit.

There are other things that you are going to want to take in while you are in South Africa. You should definitely take in some of the local festivals. South Africa has one of the largest numbers of cultural festivals per capita, cause of the fact that they are a nation hugely seeped in cultures and diversity. These festivals, however, are not very well known. The best thing to do, if you are interested in witnessing one of the festivals, is to contact a local person who would know when and where they are going to be going on.

 

Property in South Africa - Guide to Buying Property in South Africa

Les Calvert 2007-11-20
Title: Property in South Africa - Guide to Buying Property in South Africa

There are no restrictions on foreign nationals investing or buying real estate in South Africa. Indeed, for generations, foreign nationals have been very active in the real estate market in South Africa.

As will be discussed more fully later, real estate in South Africa actually is known as or termed immovable property

Investment Property in South Africa

The investment real estate market in South Africa has been profitable for foreign nationals for years. There were some tentative times directly after the end of Apartheid in that country. However, as time has marched on from the period of transition, foreign nationals have carried forth in their investment in South African real estate -- immovable property -- on many fronts.

By way of example, foreign nationals play a significant role in the ownership of real estate or immovable property in the commercial sector. Foreign nationals own everything from office buildings to hotels and resorts.

There are no restrictions on the types of real estate that a foreign national can invest in within South Africa

Residential Real Estate in South Africa - Single Family Properties

Many foreign nationals have taken to purchasing some fairly high cost properties in South Africa. These men and woman have purchased these costly residences to be used as second homes and for holiday or vacation purposes. Many people -- including a significant number of Europeans -- regularly take extended holidays in South Africa. Since the end of Apartheid, a greater number of people from across the globe are taking to spending extended holidays in South Africa. This includes an ever growing number of North Americans, Canadians and U.S. citizens alike.

The single family dwelling market is fast moving and brisk in many different areas of the country. Not only can foreign nationals be found investing in these types of residences in the more urban centers in the country, but they are making purchase of these types of property in rural areas as well. As will be discussed, many foreign nationals enjoy making an extended holiday stay in South Africa (and have done so for many years). Thus, many of these foreign nationals have been interested and continue to be interested in buying single family residences -- and at times very substantial properties -- in urban and in rural regions of the country where they can live for a portion of the year.

Residential Real Estate in South Africa - Apartments

Because of the high rate of foreign investment in all sectors of the South African economy, many foreign nationals regularly can be found purchasing apartments in the major urban centers in that country. These foreign nationals find themselves in country for more extended periods of time. These men and women find the purchase of apartments to be an economical manner in which they can provide themselves housing during their time in South Africa on business.

There has also been a brisk business in the buying of apartments in resort communities by foreign nationals. Many foreign nationals are taking a two-pronged approach to buying apartments in resort venues. First, they are using these properties for their own holiday purposes. Second, they are letting out these premises to other foreign nationals when they are not personally using the property. Many foreign nationals have found that they can make a tidy sum by renting or leasing an apartment in a resort locale during that part of the year when they are not personally in residence in the resort community apartment.

Holiday Property in South Africa

For generations, Europeans and men and women from other countries the world over have made South Africa a holiday destination. Indeed, the history of people from Europe and elsewhere around the world making long and extended holiday stays within South Africa is long and legendary. As a consequence, the market in vacation or holiday real estate in South Africa is well established.

For the foreign national interested in purchasing vacation or holiday property in South Africa, the options and opportunities in regard to such property is extensive and varied. A foreign national has the ability to purchase anything from a high priced villa in a trendy resort community to a snug and tidy apartment in a sprawling urban setting to a lovely chateau in a rural area in the country.

A number of foreign nationals have taken to investing in different holiday and resort properties. Indeed, foreign nationals have been active in the development of hotels, apartments and free standing dwellings that are leased or rented to people who have traveled to South Africa on holiday. Overall, this type of investment has proven to be very lucrative for many foreign nationals from different countries the world over.

Specific steps to buying real estate property in South Africa

In South Africa, the laws governing the buying and selling of real estate actually are called laws governing the buying and selling of immovable property or land. At the present time, there are no restrictions on a foreign national buying and owning real estate in South Africa. Indeed, foreign nationals have bought and owned real estate -- immovable property -- in South Africa for generations.

Generally speaking, the buying and selling of immovable property or real estate in South Africa is governed by decisions of the courts of that country. The one area in which statutory law does play a role when it comes to buying and selling real estate/immovable property in South Africa is in the area of the ownership of mineral rights. When it comes to mineral interests that might be underneath the surface of a particular piece of property, that interest as a general rule belongs to the "people of South Africa." In other words, even though a foreign national may be able to buy real estate in that country, more often than not a foreign national will not be able to easily purchase a right to extract minerals from that real estate. (Of course, a contract can be entered into with the government that will grant an individual of business the right and the ability to withdraw minerals from underneath the surface of land.)

Because there are some tribes that exercise some degree of local autonomy in South Africa, some foreign nationals wonder what impact these more or less autonomous governing authorities might have on their ability to purchase real estate. Historically, local, tribal or customary law had little impact on the buying and selling of real estate in South Africa. However, in recent years, the national government has given some recognition to parallel lines of authority within the country. Therefore, if a foreign national is interested in buying immovable property in an area that is included within an autonomous, that foreign national will need to make certain that he or she understands the particular regulations in that area that might have an impact on the purchase of real estate in that area. Because there are so many different local variants that might come into play depending on what region of the country a person is considering investing in real estate in, it is impossible to detail them all in this limited space. Therefore, a foreign national who is interested in purchasing real estate in South Africa will want to make certain that he or she has access to very capable legal representation.

The underlying real estate purchasing process in South Africa is simple when all is said and done. A tentative or preliminary contract is entered into between the buyer and seller. As in many other countries around the world, a deposit is made upon the property by the purchaser. The amount of the deposit is negotiated between the parties. Additionally, the terms of under what conditions a deposit might be returned are also negotiated between the parties to the agreement.

Following the execution of this preliminary contract, the buyer will embark on his or her efforts to find appropriate financing for the real estate. There are many different mortgage lenders within South Africa that deal regularly with a foreign clientele. With that said, it is also perfectly permissible for a foreign national to obtain mortgage financing from a firm located in that person's country of origin. The government of South Africa is flexible as to where a person obtains his or her financing to fund a real estate or immovable property purchase in that country.

Once all of the requirements of the initial agreement have been satisfied, a final agreement of sale and transfer of immovable property is executed between the parties. It is at this juncture, when this agreement is duly executed, that ownership of the immovable property is transferred from the seller to the buyer. With this conveyance, a new title to the real estate is registered immediately with governmental authorities.

Again, it is important to keep in mind that there might be some slight variances in this procedure in some of the more autonomous regions of the country. However, with the assistance of capable legal counsel, a foreign purchaser of immovable property or real estate in South Africa will be able to maneuver through the legal requirements.

Property Abroad always recommends using a Solicitor or Lawyer.


 

Hopping Around South Africa for Family Vacation

Gary Terrazas 2007-10-03
Title: Hopping Around South Africa for Family Vacation

South Africa is a vast land where you and your family can spend bonding time and moments. South Africa is a great place for a family vacation.

Acquaint and be with nature's beauty and gift is what South Africa is renowned for.

South Africa's best asset is its beautiful and rich surroundings. Be one with nature, Africa is a land bestowed and blessed with magnificent environment. Hop around the national parks like Kruger National Park and Pilanesberg National Park. Take a peak to Africa's World Heritage Sites. See how rich they are in terms of wide variety of luscious green plants and attracting flowers.

For your kids, bring your family to Hermanus. This is a known place for whale watching. Let them enjoy the whales while swimming around the blue waters. Watch as they do moves under water. Learn to appreciate these gentle creatures. After that, visit Robben Island, famed because of Nelson Mandela's imprisonment and a site for a diverse species of mammals and birds. See how the interaction. Learn the diverse ecosystem of the island and realize how these numerous species live in a small community.

After satisfying your kid's eyes with the beautiful creatures, do not fail to acquaint them with the local indigenous communities. Let them be changed by a lot of different experiences in terms of values and views about South Africa's ancestors. Learn and appreciate the culture of the people. See their traditional dress, experience their food and see their beliefs.

Visit the Cradle of Human Kind, where one of the first humanoid fossils were found - Lucy. The caves were these ancient bones were found can be visited and explored with an expert guide.

If you already gone tired of walking around in those trips, take a cable mountain car. See the panoramic view of the rich land from Table Mountain, the best vantage point in Cape Town.

Take also a snow ski in Tiffindell Ski Resort. It is one of the few places in the entire Africa where snow skiing is available and a must in your list. Take the extreme actions you can do with your ski boards. Take the never cracking ups and downs of the sloppy snow ranges.

When your kids are already tired, let them rest on a native style eco-lodges or camp around a bush fire where you can enjoy a local barbecue called braai.

Truly, you South Africa family vacation will be nature-acquainted experience! Your South Africa family vacation will be a precious memory to keep.

Come and join us in this land of splendor.


 

Traveling in South Africa: Johannesburg, Cape Town and Durban

Alistair White 2007-09-17
Title: Traveling in South Africa: Johannesburg, Cape Town and Durban

Johannesburg
Jo'burg, as it's known, is the largest city in South Africa, its busy bustling streets lack real beauty. But you'll be rewarded with wonderful experiences of the real South Africa and the climate is glorious.

Transport: how to get there and around
There is an international airport in Johannesburg which serves domestic as well as international destinations. There is also a bus service that connects with nearby countries.

Weather
The climate in South Africa has great regional variations. Generally hot though it depends on altitude. Summer tends to be very hot in the low lands; upper lands are pleasantly warm but subject to rain and mist. Winters are mild all over the country except at the highest altitudes which are subject to frosts and occasional snowfalls.

Accommodation: Luxury to budget stays
The internet can offer some of the best information on the cost, range and location of hotels in Johannesburg .

Attractions & Events
*To experience the rich cultures of South Africa that were oppressed for so long, be in Johannesburg throughout September and October for the Arts Alive Festival.

*In April the National Exhibition Centre holds the Rand Easter Show.

*September brings the Jazz Festival and also the Gay Pride march is on the last Saturday of the month.
Cape Town
Cape Town is relaxed and laid back, especially in comparison to Johannesburg. The stunning Table Mountain overlooks the city of beautiful landscapes and beaches. It's a welcoming place, too, with a vibrant cultural life especially for music.

Transport: how to get there and around
Cape Town International airport has many direct flights from around the world. The city has a main train station where you can board both trains and buses. For help getting around town, ‘Rikki’ transporters, Taxis and buses are available.

Weather
The best time to visit is during the summer months December to March. It can be around 26 C in the city but this is cooled off a by the Cape Doctor – also known as the wind!

Accommodation: Luxury to budget stays
The internet can offer some of the best information on the cost, range and location of hotels in Cape Town .

Attractions & Events
*The Cape Town Arts Festival is an outdoor event during the summer month of January.

*The Good Food and Wine Festival is held in June.

*There are a few events taking place in December. In the Company’s Garden you can experience Carols by Candlelight. A more flamboyant event with outrageous costumes is the Cape Town Queer Event.

Durban
Durban is a modern city with a lively night scene and plenty to keep you entertained from taverns, discos, theatres and clubs. The proud Zulu culture can be felt throughout Durban which boasts tropical beaches and jungle.

Transport: how to get there and around
International and domestic flights are served by Durban International Airport. You can reach the main South African cities with by train such as Cape Town and Johannesburg. Rickshaws, Taxi’s and minibuses will get you around the city itself.

Weather
Overall the climate is fairly mild all year round. During May and October there is more chance of rain and the winters bring an evening chill.

Accommodation: Luxury to budget stays
The internet can offer some of the best information on the cost, range and location of hotels in Durban.

Attractions & Events
*Durban has a literature festival in March at the University of KwaZulu-Natal.

*Natal holds a Marathon in June which goes through the valley of a thousand hills.

*The Centre for Creative Arts holds the International Film Festival in June.


 

Safari In South Africa

G. Chadwick 2007-04-14
Title: Safari In South Africa

When it comes to travel in South Africa, there are many things for you to see and do. The first thing however that you should keep in mind is that South Africa is a nation in which you might run into a lot of problems. Like any African country, you should check with your own home country to make sure that there aren't any tourist restrictions on South Africa or on you from South Africa. Once you have checked with your home country, and everything is set to go, there are several things that you should know before you continue to travel to South Africa.

First of all the most important place for you to see is the biggest city, Johannesburg. While it isn't the capital, it is a place that is full of much cultural diversity and many beautiful and historical sites. You are going to want to spend most of your time there, because this is where you can truly learn about South Africa and talk to people who know the history surrounding this beautiful country.

In Johannesburg, which is nicknamed Egoli, you can visit the capital of the province. You can see the mine dumps, which stand from South Africa's richest past, and also look at the modern Architecture. In Sandton, you can visit a business, commercial and residential district. This is known as the richest square mile in all of Africa, so it is the financial hub of South Africa. About 50 KM north of Johannesburg you can visit Pretoria, where you will find that City of Tshwane Metropolitan Municipality, which began in December of 2002. This is of great interest because it is a newly formed group of townships, an experiment that you can witness taking place. Don't forget to visit Dinokeng, which is north east of Joburg and Tshwane. This is a region that has natural, cultural and historical attractions that you can visit.

There are other things that you are going to want to take in while you are in South Africa. You should definitely take in some of the local festivals. South Africa has one of the largest numbers of cultural festivals per capita, cause of the fact that they are a nation hugely seeped in cultures and diversity. These festivals, however, are not very well known. The best thing to do, if you are interested in witnessing one of the festivals, is to contact a local person who would know when and where they are going to be going on.



 
 

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