* Stay clear of the center of major cities at night and should you wish to go somewhere, please get the accommodation to get a taxi.

* Do not tour the Wild Coast of Transkei on your own.

* Talk to the local people before venturing into those unknown areas on your own.

* There is a great deal of goodwill to foreigner visitors.

The following hints to make your stay enjoyable and safe.

There are a few basic precautions you should take to ensure that your stay is as pleasant and safe as possible.

You could reduce the possibility of becoming a victim of crime.

Taking the following precautions:

At The Hotel:

* Never leave your luggage unattended.

* Hand the keys in at the desk whenever you depart the hotel.

* Carry a certified copy of your passport and travel documents with you at all times.

* Keep your room locked.

* Check who it is before opening the door in the hotel.

* Store all valuables in the hotel’s safety deposit box, including cash, jewellery and cameras.

* Be observant when entering parking or unlit areas.

In The Street:

* Carry your camera in a shoulder bag.

* It’s definitely not advisable to carry large amounts of money around.

* Whenever possible, do not walk alone.

* Explore our country in groups and stay in well-lit, busy streets.

* At night, steer clear of dark, isolated areas.

* A police or traffic officer will gladly direct you if you get lost.

* If you want to call a taxi, your hotel can recommend a good reliable service.

* When walking in the street be observant and guard against snatchers, pick-pockets.

* Carry your bag close to your body.

* Keep your change in your wallet, and credit cards and notes in an inside pocket.

In The Car:

* Keep the car doors locked at all times and wind the windows up.

* Plan your route in advance, and be sure of sufficient fuel.

* Make sure your vehicle is in good mechanical order.

* Use maps, and when in doubt as to the safety of specific areas, or which route to take, ask the police.

* Do not leave packages or personal items on the seats of the car.

* Park in well-lit areas at night.

* Never pick up any hitchhiker.

General:

* Keep a list of emergency numbers close at hand in case of an emergency.

* Be alert at all times.

* When using an elevator, always make sure that you are at ease with fellow users before entering.

* Avoid displays of expensive jewellery.

* Do not show large amounts of money.

* Should you possess a firearm, hand it in at your bank for safe keeping, unless you plan on carrying it on your person the whole time.

If you see any suspect activity, or experience an emergency please call the South African police emergency number: 10111

By: Gerald Crawford