SOUTH AFRICA
Language - There are 11 official languages in South Africa. English is the language of administration and is widely spoken.
Weather - South Africa's seasons are the reverse of those in the UK, with midwinter in June and July and midsummer in December and January.  In general the country enjoys a sunny climate all year round. Cape Town and the southernmost part of Western Cape has a Mediterranean-type climate, with mild changeable winters, when most of the rainfall occurs, and a warm to hot summer. Durban and the KwaZulu-Natal coast enjoys a sub-tropical climate, with plenty of sunshine year round. The winters in the interior are dry and warm, although it may get chilly at night. Summers are hot with more frequent rain.
Shopping times - Banks open from 09.00 - 15.30, Mondays to Fridays; from 08.30-11h00 on Saturdays. Shops open from 08.00-16.30 Mondays to Fridays and from 08.30-12.30 on Saturdays, although in the main centres, opening hours are likely to be longer. Hours may vary from province to province.
Currency - The currency is the Rand, which is divided into 100 cents. Exchange rate (September 2004) approx $1 = ZAR 6.50. All currency must be declared on entry.
Clothing - In the South Africa summer, lightweight clothing is the norm; in the winter a jacket, jumper or coat may be needed, particularly in the evenings. While some establishments require jacket and tie, or cocktail dresses for the evening, many stipulate "smart casual", a collared-shirt and slacks or a blouse and skirt. On the beach, topless sunbathing is becoming more accepted. At game reserves, neutral colours, such as browns, beiges, khakis are preferred on game drives. Bright colours or white may disturb the animals. Pack a sweater, it can be chilly in the early morning and after dusk. Wear a hat to avoid sunstroke and don't forget the swimsuits for sitting around the pool during the day. Take sensible shoes - there may be the opportunity to go on a walking safari.
Photography - The sunny weather of South Africa makes it a photographer's paradise. Batteries and film are generally available in main centres, but it is a good idea to stock up before going into more remote areas and into the game parks, although some private reserves have well-stocked shops.
Game Viewing - Before going into the reserves take a can of insect repellant to ward off mosquitoes. Binoculars will considerably improve the game viewing, while a torch is a good idea for seeing the way around the camp after dark.
General - No matter where you travel, you should always keep a note of the numbers of your travellers' cheques, your passport details and air ticket numbers separately from the original documents. Having a record of these details saves time if you need to replace any of them. We recommend that you lock valuables in a hotel safety deposit box and remind you to check the access time as these facilities often open at odd times, which may not be convenient for you.
Medical - No vaccination certificates are required from visitors coming from the UK. However it is strongly recommended that all visitors to the eastern lowveld of Mpumalanga and Northern Province, the Kruger National Park and game reserves in KwaZulu-Natal take a course of anti-malaria tablets from a doctor or chemist. For up-to-date information and advice, consult your doctor well before departure. It is safe to drink the tap water throughout South Africa, and health regulations control the hygiene of street vendors. While South Africa boasts excellent medical facilities, visitors should ensure they take out insurance to cover the cost of treatment, should the need arise.
Arts and crafts - Traditional South African craft work, such as bowls, clay pots, beadwork, carvings, tapestries and paintings are good value and make interesting souvenirs. Jewellery is also worth looking out for - after all, South Africa is the home of gold and diamonds. Clothing, brightly coloured ethnic wear, safari suits for both men and women, and t-shirts with African designs, provide practical reminders of a memorable holiday. Because of the advantageous exchange rate, all clothing and footwear is comparatively inexpensive.
GMT + 2 hours
Current - 220/240 volts at 50 cycles per second. A three-point round-pin adapter plugs should be brought for razors and hairdryers.

ZIMBABWE
Climate - temperate weather, with summer lasting 8 months of the year. In winter (May to August) days are dry and sunny, with temperatures ranging from 15-20 degrees Celsius. The rainy season is from November to March.
Visas - Not required by South African passport holders. Foreign visitors may require a visa. Please check these formalities before you travel.
GMT - Zimbabwe is on the same time zone as South Africa (GMT+2).
Official Language - English is Zimbabwe's official language.
Currency - The local currency is the Zimbabwe Dollar. Please refer to your itinerary for important information on the current currency policy in Zimbabwe.
Border Posts - All the Border Posts listed below are open on public holidays.
Zimbabwe to South Africa:
Beitbridge 05:30 to 20:30 daily
Plumtree 06:00 to 18:00 daily
Zimbabwe to Zambia:
Chirundu 06:00 to 18:00 daily
Victoria Falls 06:00 to 22:00 daily
Victoria Falls details - Thompsons Zimbabwe, are able to book optional excursions, car hire and provide any assistance you may require during your stay in Zimbabwe.
They are located at:
366 Gibson Road
Victoria Falls
Zimbabwe
Tel:  09263 13 43371/2/3
Fax:  09263 13 45942
To ensure safety and high standards at all times, we suggest that you use only Thompsons Zimbabwe.
Shopping - Good buys include coffee, tea, soapstone carvings, sculptures, mazoe orange juice and cashew nuts. Shop hours are Monday to Friday 08h00 to 17h00 and Saturdays from 08h30 to 12h00. Sales tax is charged on everything except basic items. Don't forget to bargain for your wares!.Most internationally recognised credit cards are accepted.
Tipping - Many restaurants include a service charge on the bill. However, if you wish to tip, 10% is acceptable.
Electricity - The electricity supply in Zimbabwe is 220/240 volts at 50 cycles.
Travellers cheques - Keep a note of your travellers' cheques, passport and air ticket numbers in a separate place, in case you should lose them. Having a record of these numbers saves time if you need replacement documents. Always carry these on your person and beware of pickpockets while in crowded places. Most hotels have safe deposit boxes in the bedrooms, making it easier to access your monies or documents. Thompsons highly recommends the use of the hotel safe (extra charge is minimal) to ensure your belongings are secure. A good idea is to photostat the pages of your passport and keep these details separately.
Medical - Malaria prophylactics are essential. Please check with your pharmacist for the correct prophylactics. Mosquito repellents and lotions are strongly recommended. When in Zimbabwe you are advised not to use water in the country's dams and rivers for swimming and drinking as it may be infected with Bilharzia, it is advisable to drink only bottled water. It's advisable to be vaccinated against Tetanus.
Clothing - Light tropical clothing and a sun hat are recommended. You need to bring a raincoat for the wet s