south africa - BEA Institute

Transcription

YOUR STUDENT GUIDE
TO SOUTH AFRICA
CONTENTS
WELCOME . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
SOUTH AFRICA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Where is South Africa . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
What is South Africa’s culture . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
What is Apartheid . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
WHY BEA INSTITUTE AND GO TOUCH DOWN TRAVEL & TOURS . . . . . .
Core Values . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
TIPS FOR TRAVEL TO SOUTH AFRICA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Baggage Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Voltage Requirements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Currency . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Weather in South Africa . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
What to Wear . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
YOUR TRAVELS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
How You Will Travel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Where You Travel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Cape Town . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Songimvelo Game Reserve . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Kruger National Park . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Dullstroom . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Johannesburg . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Where You Are Staying . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Burgundy Luxury Apartments . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Songimvelo Education Center . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Dunkeld Estate . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Seasons Sport and Spa . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Day by Day Itinerary . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
FAQs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
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©2015 BEA South Africa Summit
BEA South Africa Study Abroad Program
WELCOME!
We are delighted that you have chosen the BEA Institute as your trusted hosts for your South
Africa study abroad experience! Our staff and our partner, Go Touch Down Travel & Tours, will
tend to your every need… from helping you plan and prepare for your journey, to providing
flexible assistance and ensuring your safety during your visit. Our mission is to make this an
invaluable experience and a trip of a lifetime.
Although South Africa is not typically on everyone’s bucket list, it should be and here’s why!
To explore South Africa is to discover a world of diversity and culture like you’ve never
experienced before. Prior to traveling, you may want to know more about South Africa and
what makes this country so unique.
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SOUTH AFRICA
Where is South Africa?
South Africa is located on the southernmost
tip of Africa bordering the South of
Namibia, Botswana, Zimbabwe and
Mozambique. South Africa has two coasts:
the Northern and Western Cape along the
South Atlantic Ocean and the Eastern Cape
and Natal along the Indian Ocean. Located
in the Southern Hemisphere, South Africa’s
seasons happen opposite to continents in
the Northern Hemisphere such as North
America and Europe. So while you are
traveling during your summer, make sure
you pack for a mild winter!
What is South Africa’s culture?
South Africa is the only country in the world
that is both a first world and third world
country. What does that mean? South Africa
can be regarded as a third world country
due to its colonial past, rife poverty within
its rural communities, and vast nonindustrialized countryside. In the late 19th
century, South Africa’s mining opportunities
transformed the nation into one of the
largest gold and diamond producers in the
world. During the Diamond and Gold Rush,
every week hundreds and hundreds of
people poured into various mining towns
throughout South Africa, creating the need
for infrastructure, labor, and development, resulting in substantial wealth for many. However, many
rural areas and townships remain the same… an undeveloped third world with limited opportunities
for its people. You will experience the two extreme worlds as you travel throughout the country.
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In South Africa’s first world, you will notice the
luxury cars and the only high speed train in
Africa, the Gautrain, that runs underground
connecting Johannesburg and Sandton. In the
third world you will see the overfilled taxis, run
down buses and homes with no driveways. In the
first world you will see the overnight mining
billionaire’s mansions in Clifton and Sandhurst
and the impressive multi-billion dollar FIFA world
cup stadiums. In the third world you will see the
infinite shacks of the unemployed and township
elementary schools with broken windows. Not
only is 25% of the population unemployed
entirely, but the minimum wage is less than 1 US
dollar an hour.
These extremes make up a first world country with a surviving third world heritage, worlds within
worlds. Fortunately, from travelers like you, our studying abroad brings the first and third worlds
together. Every person, including you, provides on average seven job opportunities to South Africa!
One common cultural aspect is that there are eleven official languages of South Africa, with English
understood throughout the entire country. With such a diverse and rich culture, South Africa is sure
to amaze. A significant change in culture occurred through the turmoil of Apartheid regime. This is a
subject of recent history that is not often explored deeply in textbooks but you will learn firsthand
while in abroad in South Africa.
What is Apartheid?
Apartheid is one of South Africa’s defining eras of recent history. In 1948 the National Party gained
power of South Africa and began enforcing policies of racial segregation under a legislative system
called ‘apartheid’, or, directly translated from Afrikaans, ‘separateness’. This governmental system
included laws that banned marriages between whites and those of other races, enforced public
amenity segregation, and enforced Land Acts that relocated families, sometimes splitting them up, to
designated areas of the country.
Although other countries of the world were enduring their own segregation era, no other country had
formalized segregation through the law. In the 60’s and 70’s, racially segregated countries emerged
with activists like Nelson Mandela and Martin Luther King, Jr. who led segregation opposition in their
country. Nelson Mandela was sentenced to prison for life for committing sabotage against apartheid
government in 1964 (the same year MLK Jr. received a Nobel Peace Prize for combatting racial
inequality through nonviolence). It wasn’t until 1990 (26 years later) that Mandela was released from
prison, followed by his South African Presidency just four years later.
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The fall of apartheid is in part due to heroic activists such
as Nelson Mandela, but also from external pressures and
change of world politics.
South Africa is one of the last democratic countries to end
forced segregation and is still in its rebuilding stage. On
your trip you will experience firsthand the damages of
apartheid and learn about how South Africa is coming to
terms with its past and working towards a prosperous
future.
In Cape Town you will visit Nelson Mandela’s prison cell
on Robben Island and tour the grounds with a past
political prisoner. In Johannesburg you will visit
Southwestern Township (Soweto), a township formed for
the non-whites during apartheid where the student
uprisings occurred and where Nelson Mandela lived prior
to his arrest.
You will tour Mandela’s home and walk his neighborhood streets. Also in Johannesburg, you will have
the opportunity to visit the Apartheid Museum. The museum illustrates the rise and fall of apartheid
through a series of 22 individual exhibition areas. The exhibit’s film footage, photographs, artifacts
and text panels create an emotional journey that helps visitors understand and experience what
apartheid was really like.
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WHY BEA INSTITUTE AND GO TOUCH DOWN TRAVEL & TOURS?
The programs that BEA Institute offers are uniquely designed for students who are looking to either
supplement their resumes, explore deeper their field of study or to simply experience a trip of a
lifetime. Our programs offer travel-based learning focused on international leadership, cultural
awareness and personal development. Established in 2012, BEA Institute has been successfully
holding study abroad summer programs in multiple countries - including South Africa, Ireland and
Costa Rica.
The BEA South Africa experience will spring you to the top of the job market making you highly
desirable and a well-rounded candidate for employment. After a BEA program you will have an
arsenal of stories to use in interviews that will really make you stand out.
 Affordable: We want students to be able to afford the program. As a result, we offer a book
now pay later payment plan. All payment plans have zero interest and can be customized to fit
your needs. We also offer early bird discounts to make your travel dreams come true!
 Worldwide network: You meet extraordinary people in extraordinary places. With a history of
enrolling students from over 50 countries in the BEA institute programs, you are guaranteed to
meet amazing people and build your personal network. We believe this cultural exchange
between students is a critical step in solving many arising problems around the world.
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 It’s all about experience: The institute has developed relationships with trusted companies in
South Africa to provide the best housing, meals, guides, vehicles and education for your
program. Years of research have gone in to creating a winning formula for an experience that is
fun-filled, mind enhancing, horizon broadening experience that will catapult you the top of
your potential. We believe in order to survive and compete in the global job market,
experience is everything.
Go Touch Down Travel & Tours is an affiliate of Touch Corporation, a holding company for a large
collection of internationally based partnering companies, with more than 25 years of experience in
the hospitality industry. Their award-winning group has made a significant impression on the leisure
market, and has achieved the ultimate recognition of being named the Top Marketing Company for
18 consecutive years in one of Africa’s leading tourism sectors.
Because Go Touch Down Travel & Tours is linked to Go
Touch Down Resorts in South Africa, the company owns,
operates, manages, and develops their own resorts. So the
quality and outcome of your South African experience is in
their hands 24/7.
Among the unique benefits that Go Touch Down Travel &
Tours provides is the personal cell phone that each traveler
receives upon their arrival in South Africa. This makes it
easy and convenient to keep in contact with your driver,
your guide, and your new and old friends. The phone can
receive international calls, so family and friends, can keep
in touch.
As the one of the larger providers of guided tours to South Africa, the company has traveled
thousands of clients from North America to South Africa and consistently receives five-star reviews.
CORE VALUES
As partners, BEA Institute and Go Touch Down Travel & Tours share the following core values:
 Honesty: We care about our reputation and doing the right thing. We promise we will always
give you accurate and transparent information that every person in our employ can put their
name behind.
 Respect: If you aren’t happy, we aren’t happy. We believe in treating our students like our own
personal guests. If we can do it, we will. To promote trust, we promise to respond to your
inquiries within 48 business hours.
 Dedication: We work hard for you. We go above and beyond to pay attention to every detail,
no matter how small to make sure your learning experience is maximized. We believe the
secret to going from good to great is all in the details.
 Development: We believe in continual personal growth. We promise to help you reach your
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potential. BEA goes beyond just a summer program, it is a catalyst to helping you realize what
you are truly capable of achieving.
 Inspiration: To inspire you must be inspiring. We promise you will find our company’s mission,
goals and people performing at the best of our abilities to inspire and motivate you.
TIPS FOR TRAVEL TO SOUTH AFRICA
The following sections contain tips for traveling to South Africa and what to expect when you arrive.
There is also more in-depth information on what parts of South Africa you will be traveling to and why
we’ve carefully selected these special places for our students.
Baggage Information
For carry-on bags your bag must:
 Not exceed 45 inches (length + width + height), or 115 cm.
 Fit easily in our SizeCheck® unit (approximately 22"x14"x9", or 56 x 36 x 23 cm).
 Fit in an overhead bin or underneath the seat in front of you.
 If your carry-on bag doesn't meet these size restrictions it must be checked, and all checked
baggage rules will apply.
 To avoid extra charges for oversize or overweight baggage, your checked bag must:
 Weigh 50 pounds (23 kg) or less.
 Not exceed 62 inches (157 cm) when you total length + width + height.
 Special Items: Each special item you're checking counts as one bag. When checking in online,
you don't have to tell us what the special item is—only that you have one. An agent will
determine any possible charges for your special item when you bring it to the baggage drop.
Special Items Include:
o Overweight bags - bags over 50 lbs.
o Oversize bags - bags over 62 inches
o (when you total the length + width + height)
o Infant and children items - stroller, child restraint seats
o Assistive devices - wheelchair
o Sports equipment - bicycle, bowling, fishing or ski equipment, parachute, surfboard,
windsurf board, scuba tank
o Musical instruments
o Fragile/bulky items - saddle, antlers, Hawaiian pineapples, military duffle
Voltage Requirements
Voltage: 220/240 V; Plug M.
You will need a voltage converter, and plug adapter in order to use U.S. appliances. We recommend
getting a universal adapter and converter kit. They cost between $12 and $30 dollars and can be
found in many hardware stores, travel shops and online retailers. Virtually all laptop computers and
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some electric razors take universal voltages. Always be sure to check with the manufacturer of the
appliance for proper use and conversion.
Currency
The currency of South Africa is the Rand (Zar). The
exchange rate between the Rand and the US Dollar is
approximately 13.6:1.
We recommend that you exchange your dollars for
rand upon your arrival at airport in Johannesburg.
Should you need to exchange more during your trip,
your guide will suggest the best place to do so.
Weather in South Africa
South Africa has a climate like Southern California or the Mediterranean. It is beautiful year-round.
Summer Months:
South Africa summer months are from the end of August to April with the hottest period from
October to February. Average day temperatures in summer range from a minimum of 15 °C (59 °F) to
a maximum of 28 °C (82.4 °F), although temperatures can get as high as 36 °C (96.8 °F) in some areas.
One should expect rain storms or drizzle on any of these days. It hardly ever rains throughout the day
and generally the rain storms last for only an hour or so.
Winter Months:
If you are traveling during your summer break, you will be traveling during South Africa’s winter!
Winter is from May to July with the coldest period being towards the end of June and July. In winter,
early morning temperatures can drop below 5°C (41°F) and well below zero at night in some places.
Maximum average day temperatures in winter are a respectable 19 °C (66.2 °F to 23 °C (73.4 °F). A
subtropical location and a high interior plateau are responsible for South Africa's temperate
conditions so appreciated by visitors.
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What to Wear
South Africans are generally laid back when it comes to clothing.
The winters are generally mild, comparing favorably with European summers. But South Africa does
get some days when temperatures dive, especially in high-lying areas such as the Dullstroom, so be
prepared with jerseys and jackets. Cape Town gets its rain during the winter season so it’s advisable
to bring rain gear along as well.
o Always bring a hat, sunglasses and sunblock as the sun can be strong even in the winter
months.
o Walking shoes are a good idea all year-round, with warm socks in the winter.
o For game viewing, neutral-toned items are advised, but there's no need to go overboard. A
good pair of walking shoes is also advisable.
o For the evening, smart-casual attire is recommended.
o Leave some room in your suitcase for South African clothing. Information on local designers
can be found on the internet. Look out for local labels like Hip Hop, Stoned Cherrie, Maya
Prass, Eboka and more.
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YOUR TRAVELS
How You Will Travel
Aside from our students having the best time of their life, our number one focus is safety. That is why
instead of jam-packed coach buses, we travel in smaller groups of seven (one director per seven
students) and max the programs at 21 total students. Our directors, provided by Go Touch Down
Travel & Tours, are well-seasoned professional tour directors that have lived in South Africa their
entire lives. They will greet you at the airport, carry your luggage, chat around the fire, answer all your
questions and drive you home after nights on Long Street. Your directors are there to be your driver,
supervisor, guide, safety and friend.
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Where You Will Travel
Cape Town
Affectionately referred to as ‘The Mother City’. Cape Town, the oldest city in the nation, is an area
regarded as one of the most beautiful regions in the world. The city is a rare cultural gem with a
colorful history spanning over 300 years. Cape Town, praised for its minimal ecological footprint, lies
at the feet of an African wonder. Table Mountain towers 3,500 feet above sea level with breathtaking
views of Cape Point, the romantic meeting place of the Atlantic and Indian Ocean.
Famed for its unique botanic kingdom, Cape Town boasts white sandy beaches, magnificent
seascapes and panoramic vistas. Here you will discover the first world South Africa with high-speed
internet cafés, shops prime real estate, the 2010 FIFA World Cup stadium and Long Street night life.
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Songimvelo
While South Africa holds hundreds of
game reserves scattered throughout
the country, there are very few like
Songimvelo. We believe in providing
the most unique experiences and that
includes your experience on safari.
Here at Songimvelo you will spend
quality time on an uncommercialized
game reserve, an opportunity very
few people in the entire world have to
experience: The wild and true South
Africa.
The Songimvelo reserve is 80,000
hectares (60,000 of which are fenced). Less than 2,000 visitors enjoy the intimate Songimvelo reserve
each year, compared to Kruger National Park’s one million visitors. In fact, if every visitor were on the
Songimvelo reserve at once, they would each have a sprawling 40 hectares to themselves. If the same
were to occur at Kruger, each visitor would have just one hectare.
The Songimvelo game reserve is located along the Barberton Mountain Lands, south of Kruger and
just west of Swaziland. This area is not only unique in that it’s practically untouched but it is also a
world-class heritage site in an unsurpassed state of preservation.
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Scientific research from the Barberton Mountain Lands has provided the earliest records of how the
earth’s crust was formed. It is currently in the process of redefining the date for the first occurrence
of life on earth – an astonishing one billion years earlier than previously estimated. Here evidence has
been found of one of the first massive meteorite impacts possibly related to the formation of our
moon.
Tidal traces billions of years old are so precisely recorded they allow for calculation of changes in the
distance between the earth and the moon. The Barberton Mountain Lands is the only place on earth
where the development of the early earth crust and evolution of life itself can be studied.
This is truly the place where life began.
In Songimvelo you can expect game viewing to include rhinos, elephants, zebras, giraffe, Eland (not in
Kruger), leopards, hippos, bless buck, water buck, and more.
You will be staying in the education center located within the Songimvelo Game Reserve of the
Mountain Lands. This area is a very special place that we are excited to share with our students!
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Kruger National Park:
Although Songimvelo is an experience of a lifetime, a trip to South Africa wouldn’t be complete
without visiting the world-renowned Kruger National Park. The Kruger National Park is ranked one of
the best national parks in all of Africa because of its unrivaled wildlife experience. Kruger was
established in 1898 as South Africa’s first national park and holds an impressive number of species
within its nearly two million hectare (almost five million acres) game reserve. The National Park is not
only the largest game reserve in South Africa, but it also is larger than the country of Israel. You will
experience a full day safari within the Kruger to experience a more up close interaction with the wild
side of South Africa.
You will be visiting the Southern Region of the park. Bounded by the Crocodile River in the south and
the Sabie River in the north, the southern region is also host to the jagged ridge of the Lebombo
Mountains along the border with Mozambique. The highest point in the park, Khandzalive, lies in the
southwestern corner - almost in counterpoint to Pretoriuskop that lies in the west of the southern
region of the Kruger National Park. The valleys are home to trees rarely found in other parts of the
Kruger park, such as the Cape chestnut, coral tree and lavender fever-berry; and granite lies beneath
most of the region, producing distinctive smoothed koppies at irregular intervals, which are typically
surrounded by rock figs and form ideal locations for rock dassies or hyrax, baboon and klipspringer,
not to mention the leopard. Here you’re almost sure of seeing a rare white rhino as most of them
occur here, particularly around Pretoriuskop, Mbyamiti River and south of lower Sabie.
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On the whole, there is more game purported to exist in the southern part of the park, so if you don’t
make it to the northern reaches of the Kruger National Park, you won’t miss out. This part of the
Kruger Park is to some extent shrouded in history. Around Pretoriuskop, known for its profusion of
trees, is Ship Mountain, its hull-shape the site of an old wagon trail that crosses a stream marking the
birthplace of Jock of the Bushveld. The combretum woodlands, also part of this region, attract
reasonable herds of kudu, impala, giraffe, buffalo, zebra, white rhino and elephant.
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Dullstroom:
The village of Dullstroom, situated at 2,100m above sea level in the Steenkampsberg range, dates
back to the early 1880's when Dutch settlers came to the area. The town derives its name from one
Wolterus Dull, chairman of the Dutch immigrants. The "stroom" (stream) refers to the abundance of
water in the area, notably the Crocodile River. This river, which runs through the Kruger National
Park, has its origin in Dullstroom. Other major tributaries, like the Lunsklip, Klip River, Steelpoort and
Elands River, do not only feed important rivers and marshlands, but also have become synonymous
with some of the best trout fishing in the country.
The area, known for its cool, sub-alpine climate and misty atmosphere is reminiscent of the Scottish
Highlands. Dullstroom is one of the highest and coldest towns in the entire country. The area of
Dullstroom boasts the spectacular Panorama Route offering magnificent views of remarkable
landscapes featuring many breathtaking highlights, including Blyde River Canyon, Echo Caves and
Pilgrims Rest. It is also known as a habitat for the three endangered species of cranes, a vast variety of
wild flowers and rare species of mammals - a true paradise for the nature lover. Dullstroom and its
surrounding area are primarily known as a haven for outdoor fun, fly fishing and fresh country air.
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Johannesburg:
South Africa’s largest city, Johannesburg is the financial and commercial heart of the country and also
home to the wealthy suburbs of Sandton, Hyde Park, Rosebank, Marble Arch and Fourways. With
exclusive boutiques, swanky cafés and large entertainment complexes, Johannesburg epitomizes firstworld affluence. Founded in 1886, Johannesburg is one of the world’s youngest major cities. Within a
century, the city has been rebuilt four times: from a tented camp it evolved into a town of tin
shanties, followed by four-story Edwardian brick buildings before morphing into a city of modern
skyscrapers. Paradoxically, the city’s profusion of trees – approximately 6 million, make it the largest
manmade forest in the world.
The area you will be staying in, of North Johannesburg, is situated on the northern slopes of the
Magaliesberg Mountains and close to the Hartbeespoort Dam also known as Harties (officially the
Hartbeespoort Dam Reservoir). You will be in the region of a World Heritage Site, the Cradle of
Mankind. This site was discovered in 1924 when scientists discovered a fossil that challenged the view
of a human Eurasian homeland. The 2.3 million year old fossil was discovered at the Sterkfontein
Cave, a mere 30 miles from where you will be staying.
In Johannesburg you will also be visiting one of South Africa’s oldest campuses, the University of
Witswatersrand or “Wits”. Wits was originally established in 1896 as a South African School of Mines.
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The University has since grown by acquiring additional property, including the Sterkfontien site, a
World Heritage Site with world-famous limestone caves and rich archaeological material. Today, Wits
enrolls over 30,000 students and is a world-class research university in Africa.
Where You Are Staying
Burgundy Luxury Apartments
The 4-star Burgundy Luxury Apartments are
situated in the mixed use Burgundy Estate,
bordering the vineyards of the sought after
Durbanville wine area and the Historic De
Grendel wine farm, home of Sir DeVilliers
Graaf.
Burgundy Luxury Apartments are about
25km from Cape Town’s city centre, 20km
from the airport and 30km from
Stellenbosch. Built on one of the last
remaining valuable pockets of land bordering
the Tygerberg, Blauuwberg and Parow Urban
Edges, architectural guidelines ensure an
aesthetically pleasing environment making
Burgundy Estate both beautiful and
ecologically sound.
The 41 self-catering luxury Apartments are
contemporary and modern in their design
and layout. Each has 2 bedrooms, 2
bathrooms, an open plan lounge, kitchen and
dining area leading onto a patio with braai
facilities.
Songimvelo Reserve Education Center
You will be staying on the reserve in the Education Center dormitory. The dormitory will have rooms,
beds and bathrooms but bring warm clothes to sleep in for this portion of your stay! Staying on an uncommercialized reserve gives you the opportunity to experience the real and true South Africa.
You will wake up to the red sun rising over the bushveld and will fall asleep under the bright stars and
Milky Way of the African night sky.
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Dunkeld Country Estate
Dunkeld is halfway between the Greater Kruger
National Park and Johannesburg. This is an elegant
English colonial estate nestled in a pine forest.
The combination of untouched beauty, high
standards, true South African hospitality, excellent
personal service and professional staff members,
makes Dunkeld Country Estate a truly remarkable
place.
Game viewing includes blesbok, rooihartebeest,
duiker, oRibi, black wildebeest and zebra. You can
also enjoy seeing the fine thoroughbreds roaming
about at Dunkeld’s world class equestrian center.
Seasons Sport and Spa
Seasons Sport and Spa is located in the Seasons Eco
Golf Estate. Set in 300 acres of natural indigenous
bushveld on the northern slopes of the Magaliesberg
Mountains, the resort is situated a mere 45 minutes
from Sandton and Pretoria and within an hour’s drive
of Sun City, The Pilanesberg National Park and
Hartbeespoort Dam.
The luxurious self-catering units are spacious and
offer contemporary accommodation at its best.
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Day by Day Itinerary
Two Week BEA South Africa Study Abroad
Days 1-2: Embark On a Trip of a Lifetime!
Fly to the southernmost tip of Africa where you’ll be greeted by your Cape Town tour director and
new friends. Relax after your long journey and enjoy free time and a home-cooked South African
dinner.
Day 3: Learn & Explore the “Mother City”
Cape Town
After breakfast you and your colleagues will head to a conference center for a morning lecture by a
local distinguished professor. Take a guided tour of well-known Cape Town areas such as Clifton,
Lion’s Head and the world cup stadium. Spend the afternoon at Camps Bay beach and the palm-tree
promenade. Camps Bay has one of the most beautiful beaches in Cape Town and is also one of the
trendiest suburbs. Stroll Victoria Road and enjoy a sundowner at a beachfront restaurant.
Day 4: South Africa Monuments & Landmarks
Cape Town
All aboard! Disembark on a ferry at Murray’s Bay harbor to the World Heritage Site, Robben Island.
The symbolic history of Robben Island comes from the late 20 th century when the prison was used as
maximum security for political prisoners such as Nelson Mandela. Learn about South Africa’s
apartheid history firsthand with stories of real life experiences on a guided tour with a former political
prisoner. Enjoy a lunch and learn at the Warf with a professor from a local university. Take the
cableway beyond the clouds to the top of Table Mountain. Table Mountain is the most iconic
landmark of South Africa and is the most photographed attraction in the country. Watch the sun set
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over Cape Town from Lion’s Head. Enjoy authentic South African cuisine at the world famous Momma
Africa and discover the bohemian nightlife of Long Street.
Day 5: Explore or Adventure
Cape Town
Choose either a day of exploration and sightseeing or a day of extreme adventure!
For the explorers:
You will discover Africa’s southwestern most point,
the Cape of Good Hope peninsula. Located within the
Table Mountain National Park, you will have the
opportunity to see abundant wildlife including
baboons, ostrich, antelope and if you’re lucky,
whales!
The Cape Peninsula is one of the richest floral
kingdoms with a number of unique endemic plants
like the Sandstone Fynbos. Hike to the top for one of
the most spectacular views in all of Cape Town.
Visit the wild penguins at Boulder Beach followed by a
fresh fish and chips lunch in Simon’s Town.
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For the adrenaline junkies:
Are you looking for a once in a lifetime adventure? If you love shark week and crave thrilling
excitement, this is the adventure you’ve been looking for. Take a boat off the coast to the chummed
shark infested waters where the experienced crew will drop your dive cage. See great whites up close
and personal, and don’t forget to snap a selfie! (Optional $175)
No matter which day you choose, you and your colleagues will enjoy your last night in Cape Town
together listening to live music and meeting the locals on Long Street.
Day 6: Experience Different
Songimvelo Reserve
Say bye to Cape Town and hello
Johannesburg! Touch down in Joberg
and head straight to the Songimvelo
reserve.
The Songimvelo Reserve is very special
in that it is one of very few
uncommercialized game reserves in
the entire country. Here, you will
experience the real South Africa.
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Upon arrival to the reserve you will be greeted by your safari guide and given a short introduction to
the reserve over lunch. After lunch embark on your first safari! At Songimvelo you can see any game
except the lion, so keep an eye out for antelope, zebras, buffalo, hippos, elephants, leopards, giraffe
and if you’re lucky, the endangered rhinos. Upon sunset, enjoy an authentic bush dinner with your
colleagues and gaze at the stars like you’ve never seen them before.
Day 7: Discover and Learn
Songimvelo Reserve
Start your day with an early morning game drive. The wildlife is at one of its most active peaks in the
early mornings, which increases your chances of spotting some amazing action. Return for an
educational lecture on the reserve and the geology of the local area by a game ranger. Learn how the
Songimvelo reserve mountain range contains 5 billion year-old rocks and is in the process of
becoming a UNESCA World Heritage site. As the sun begins to set, you will depart on an evening game
drive. Evenings are also a peak activity time for wildlife and you may be lucky enough to spot the
leopard as he heads out for his night time hunt (remember to look for them in the trees!).
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Day 8: Make a Difference
Songimvelo Reserve
After the morning game drive, you and your colleagues will depart the reserve to head into the
neighboring township, Emanzana of the Mpumalanga district. This will be your day of service so
remember to wear clothes that can get dirty! The Emanzana township, like many South Africa
townships, suffers from high poverty and starvation. The BEA Institute has partnered with a local
community garden that provides seeds for families to plant and grow produce to then sell as an
income to feed their own families.
The BEA Institute South Africa Summer students have the unique opportunity to help these families
by working a half day in the garden. This can include tilling, digging, planting, watering, and/or
harvesting. Enjoy some down time before an early evening game drive. Return for a very special
interactive cultural dance and performance with local Swazi Dancers. Ceremonial dancing is most
traditional in The Kingdom of Swaziland, a South African sovereign state. Watch the colorful
ceremony and then learn the moves yourself!
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Day 9: Kruger National Park
South Kruger
Early departure for a full-day trip to the world-renowned Kruger National Park! The Kruger National
Park is ranked as one of the best national parks in all of Africa because of its unrivaled wildlife
experience. Kruger was established in 1898 as South Africa’s first national park and holds an
impressive number of species within its nearly two million hectare game reserve. Take a safari within
the Kruger to experience a more up close interaction with the wild side of Africa. Return to
Songimvelo for your last bush dinner with friends.
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Day 10: The Panorama Route
Dullstroom
Sit back, relax and enjoy the views! Depart
Songimvelo and head to the mountains of
Dullstroom along the most scenic route in
the country, the Panorama Route.
Scattered along the route are numerous
breathtaking views and scenic landmarks
such as God’s Window and the Three
Rondavels.
Go back in time to the abandoned gold rush town of Pilgrim’s Rest and then walk the bridges over the
Bourke’s Luck Potholes of the Blyde River Canyon. Remember to charge your camera but most
importantly remember to soak it all in while you’re there!
Arrive at the Dunkeld Equestrian Estate of Dullstroom for a different kind of Africa. Mountains, cliffs,
pine trees, horses, and streams… you never knew this side of the country existed! Enjoy dinner and a
fun cultural activity in the estate restaurant with your colleagues.
Day 11: Leisure or Adventure & Become a Local Student
Dullstroom
Choose between a half-day of leisure or adventure!
Leisurers, explore the estate grounds and choose an activity: horse-riding, bird watching, walk a
scenic trail, indoor heated pool or you may even choose to do nothing at all.
Adventurers, this is a morning you won’t want to sleep through. The BEA Institute has partnered with
Breathe Adventures to bring you an adventure of a lifetime. ***Breath Adventures activity***
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Leave Dunkeld for a late afternoon campus tour and lecture at the University of the Witswatersrand.
At the University you will have a campus tour and one on one access to a local professor. Your visit to
Wits is followed by a dinner and night out in Santon. Stay the night at nearby Seasons Sport & Spa.
Day 12: Learn First Hand in Soweto
& Apartheid Museum
Johannesburg
Today you will discover even more about Nelson
Mandela and learn firsthand about apartheid. Begin
your day visiting Soweto (South Western Township),
South Africa’s most populous township. Soweto is
rich with history; you can feel the struggle of
apartheid just walking down the streets. Take a
guided tour of Nelson Mandela’s house, located
within Soweto. Have lunch with the locals at a
Soweto favorite and feel the vibe and history of the
area.
Now that you’ve been introduced to apartheid and have walked the same streets as Nelson Mandela,
it’s time to really understand and experience what apartheid South Africa was really like; at the
Apartheid Museum. The museum offers a self-guided journey through history that illustrates the rise
and fall of this turbulent era. **Night Activity TBD
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Day 13: DEPARTURE DAY
Johannesburg
Day 13 is departure day where you must say goodbye to South Africa… for now. But we have so much
more to show you! So, If possible, arrange your flights in the evening so you don’t miss Chameleon
Village. Shop the village’s African market for keepsakes and then head over to the Chameleon Village
Lion Park. Here you will have the opportunity to interact and play with lion cubs. The perfect sendoff
back home!
For those who would rather just relax before their departure, enjoy some “me time” in the heated
pools and spa of the resort. (Remember to book your spa service prior to ensure availability. Spa
services are not included with the trip.)
Day 14: ARRIVE HOME
Arrive home safely!
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FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
What’s included in my student trip?
We take care of everything from the moment you meet your tour director at the airport. This includes
your housing accommodations, three meals per day (including a soft drink), dedicated drivers and
vehicles, flights between Cape Town and Johannesburg, itinerary excursions and museums (unless
otherwise stated as optional), lecturers and speakers and a local cell phone. The only items our
students are responsible for once the program begins are keepsakes, any alcohol, food outside of the
provided three meals per day and any optional excursions.
Why are international flights not included?
We do not include International flights in the price of our trip for the benefit of the student. Not only
do we want our students to have a choice when booking their flights, we want them to have the
flexibility as well. With airfare not included you have the freedom and flexibility to arrive or leave
whenever you choose. Maybe you’d like to stay an extra month in South Africa? Also, our students
sometimes fly in from all over the world. Airfare costs vary based on time of booking and departure
airport. A student traveling from London might have a much less expensive flight than a student
traveling from California. When the flight is included in the price it can result in a student paying more
for the flight than what he or she might actually have to. You wouldn’t want to pay the same than
someone traveling twice as far as you, would you?
We do, however, have travel agents on staff that can assist you with the arrangements of your travel
to ensure you’re arriving at the right times, etc.. (traveling in different time zones can get confusing!).
This includes assistance with booking your flights and, if needed, pre- and post-trip hotel
accommodations. Take advantage of our local knowledge. If you arrive before or are staying past the
program dates, even though you are not under our director’s watch, we’d like to ensure your comfort.
Our student’s safety is always our number one concern.
What temperatures can I expect in South Africa?
A subtropical location and a high interior plateau are responsible for South Africa's temperate
conditions so appreciated by visitors. South African temperatures, which are measured in centigrade,
average at highs of 28°C to average lows of 8°C in the summer months while winter temperatures
range from 1°C at night to around 18°C in the day. Average annual rainfall is on the low side at less
than 500mm a year, making the country somewhat dry. Much of the rain falls in the Western Cape in
the winter, differing from the rest of the country, which experiences summer rainfall.
On the plus side, the South African climate boasts more than its fair share of sunshine, recording an
average of 8.5 hours a day. South Africa's climatic conditions generally range from Mediterranean in
the southwestern corner of the country to temperate in the interior plateau, and subtropical in the
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northeast. South Africa’s relatively mild and short winters do not justify the expense of central
heating in many buildings and homes, which may lead visitors to think the winter is colder than it
actually is. The answer to this is dressing in layers.
What should I pack?
Please note that these are just suggestions. Warmer clothes are required for travelling in
June/July/August. People often ask us to recommend things that we think they should bring with
them when coming on safari. Through our own and previous students’ experiences we have compiled
a list of those items we have found to be useful and necessary:











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1-2 pair(s) of smart/casual trousers
2-3 pairs of shorts
4 Shirts/ T-shirts (any combination)
1 light cotton sundress for the ladies
1 pair of walking/running shoes
1 pair of sandals/Crocs, etc.
1 swimsuit
1 sun hat
Sunscreen
Water bottlew
Mosquito repellent (With DEET if possible). Otherwise, you can purchase at the resort.
Light jacket/cardigan for the evenings (depending on the season of travel)
South Africa’s winter is from May to July with the coldest period being late June through late July.
Additional Packing Guidelines
• It may at times be very cold during the early morning and during the evening safari.
A warm fleece jacket, a fleece scarf and a warm hat will be needed. A warm pair of gloves may also be
an added advantage. You may also want to bring a warm track suit to wear instead of a dress or light
trousers.
• Try to keep the colors of your clothing as neutral as possible. Very bright colors tend to attract
mosquitos and other unwanted insects.
• Bring a comfortable pair of walking shoes for bush walks and game drives, and a pair of sandals or
flip-flops to wear around the lodge or resort.
• Meal times are generally informal, so it is not necessary to dress up in formal clothing for dinners.
• If you wear prescription eye glasses or contact lenses bring a spare pair if you can. Also ensure that
you have sufficient lens cleaning solution as the outdoor environment may at times become
extremely dusty.
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• South Africa’s electricity works on a 220 volt alternating current system. Wall plug units take a
round pin 15 Amp plug. Bring a converter to charge your devices and/or to use your electric
appliances.
• You should also bring a video or digital camera, a good pair of binoculars, enough memory cards for
your camera (or film for those who still prefer to use film) and your plug and charger for the camera
equipment.
• Should you want to send emails or photos home to friends or family you should bring your Laptop
or personal computer. There are wireless internet spots at some of the lodges.
• Cellular phones work most places in the country and also in the game reserve although it is not
permissible to take them on safari as they are considered an intrusion during the safari. It is possible
to buy cellular phone cards at most South African international airports for use in your personal
cellular phones.
• Please travel with minimal luggage. We suggest using only ONE suitcase if possible as inter-land
airlines baggage restrictions are less weight than international flights.
• Although malaria is not a risk in the areas you are traveling to, if you are concerned remember to
bring your malaria prophylaxis medication with you.
**Please speak with your local travel clinic for all updated information on malaria medication.
What are the baggage requirements for my connecting flight between Cape Town and
Johannesburg?
Kulula Airlines Hand Baggage Allowance: Only one bag per person will be allowed onboard the
aircraft. It must be lighter than 7kg (15lbs) and be smaller than 55x40x20cm - so most ladies'
handbags can be taken onboard.
Kulula Airlines Checked Baggage Allowance: You're allowed one free checked bag weighing up to a
maximum of 20kg (44lbs). Any excess weight will cost an additional R25 per kilo at the airport. Excess
baggage fees may be paid at reduced rates (up to 50% discount) during the time of booking or up to
24 hours prior to departure via the Kulula website or Contact Centre. No one bag may weigh more
than 32kg (70lbs).
Who do I contact in case of an emergency?
A dedicated director accompanies our students during any and all excursions and nights out. In a
situation where you are not with your director such as in your resort or lodge room, contact the
emergency number provided or the front desk. If you're out and about, dial 10111 from a landline for
Page 33 of 36
the police or 112 from your mobile phone for emergency assistance.
Does South Africa accommodate international roaming for mobile phones?
South Africa's mobile phone operators utilize the GSM system. If your phone is GSM compatible, set
up international roaming with your service provider before you leave home. Alternatively, you can
rent a mobile phone at the airport on arrival in South Africa, and purchase pre-paid airtime at retail
outlets during your stay.
What traditional food is served in South Africa?
South Africa boasts excellent fresh produce, meat, fruit, fish and seafood and is renowned for its
wines. Types of dishes served include sosaties (a type of kebab), bobotie (curried mince), crayfish,
biltong (seasoned dried meat), and potjiekos (a casserole cooked for hours in a three-legged iron pot).
Also try some traditional African and Afro-fusion dishes. South African local beers, Cape wines,
brandies and liqueurs are renowned the world over. The traditional beer - umqombothi - is a
homebrewed sorghum beer sold in many African townships.
How can I access medical services quickly in an emergency?
ER24 EMS is a private, national, emergency medical care service, committed to providing South
Africans with efficient, effective emergency response and pre-hospital care.
Call 084 124.
 Netcare 911 (dial 082 911) offers 24-hour emergency medical assistance.
 For ambulance services, dial 10177
Is it safe to travel to South Africa?
Safety precautions are not unlike those recommended when travelling to other countries and major
cities. More common sense than hard and fast measures, safety precautions in South Africa mostly
require vigilance and sound travel preparation.
Important South African safety advice includes avoiding deserted areas at night, securing valuables
such as photographic equipment and wallets on your person and leaving expensive, flashy jewelry in
your hotel safe while out and about.
Other safety precautions you may want to consider include:
1. Do not use a taxi, uber or any public form of transportation. If you need to go to the store or
any other location, our directors are there to drive you.
2. Lock valuables and luggage away in the car trunk while travelling (never leave handbags or
cameras on car seats).
3. Be vigilant of your luggage and other belongings (never leave them unattended).
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4. Store valuables in your hotel safe.
5. Limit the amount of money you carry on your person. Also, don't accept offers of assistance at
ATMs and keep your pin numbers secure.
6. When using a credit card in restaurants, ask the waiter to bring a portable credit card machine
to your table. Report stolen or lost cards immediately.
7. Be mindful of your consumption of alcohol. Do not over drink or drink to the point you cannot
make sound decisions.
8. Always use the buddy system. Whether going to a public restroom or a local shop, we
encourage our students to always take a friend.
Remember, our students have a dedicated director with them at all times, affording great peace of
mind!
Food and Health in South Africa
Standards of hygiene in relation to food health and safety in South Africa are generally high in hotels,
restaurants, pubs and nightspots. It is safe to eat fresh fruit, vegetables and salads, and to put ice in
your drinks. South Africa’s fish, meat and chicken are of excellent quality, so there is no need to limit
yourself when enjoying the local cuisine.
Restaurants are subject to South Africa's food safety control legislation, which is implemented by local
government. Regulations include certification and regular inspections by health inspectors to ensure
hygienic standards are maintained. Street food is not as common in South Africa as it is in other
countries, although vendors selling traditional snacks and meals can be found in city centers and
townships. Food safety in such instances cannot always be guaranteed.
At markets and public events, fast-food chains operate mobile outlets or coffee stands, which are safe
to patronize. Here you'll also often find individuals selling take-away eats like boerewors rolls,
pancakes, samoosas and other South African foods - generally safe to eat. In such instances - as with
fresh food preparation at establishments across the country - servers should handle the food with
utensils or, if by hand, with gloves.
Is it safe to drink tap water?
South Africa is one of 12 countries in the world where drinking tap water is perfectly
safe!
Do I need vaccinations to travel to South Africa?
USA and Canadian travelers do not require vaccinations. The malaria tablet is recommended when
visiting the Kruger Park area. Very often (particularly in the winter after periods of low rainfall), the
malaria risk in Kruger is very low. Many people decide not to take prophylactics and rather try to
avoid getting bitten.
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Should you be entering South Africa via any countries mentioned below, proof of Yellow Fever
Vaccination would be required upon entry into South Africa:
Angola, Argentina, Benin, Bolivia, Brazil, Burkina Faso, Burundi, Cameroon,
Central African Republic, Chad, Colombia, Guinea-Bissau, Congo, Côte d’Ivoire,
Democratic Republic of the Congo, Ecuador, Equatorial Guinea, Ethiopia,
French Guyana, Gabon, Gambia, Ghana, Guinea, Guyana, Kenya, Liberia, Mali,
Mauritania, Niger, Nigeria, Panama, Paraguay, Peru, Rwanda, Sao Tome and
Principe, Senegal, Sierra Leone, Somalia, Sudan, Suriname, Togo, Trinidad and
Tobago, Uganda, United Republic of Tanzania, Venezuela, and Zambia.
The units of measurement used in South Africa are metric.
Road distances are measured in kilometers, petrol in liters and solid food in grams.
South Africa is in the Central Africa Time Zone (CAT).
In fall and winter it is 7 hours ahead of Eastern Standard Time and spring and summer 6 hours ahead.
Where are South Africa's World Heritage Sites located?
There are 8 UNESCO World Heritage Sites in South Africa:
1. iSimangaliso Wetland Park (KwaZulu-Natal: cultural heritage)
2. Robben Island (Western Cape: cultural heritage)
3. Cradle of Humankind (Gauteng: cultural heritage)
4. uKhahlamba Drakensberg Park (KwaZulu-Natal: mixed heritage)
5. Mapungubwe Cultural Landscape (Limpopo: cultural heritage)
6. Cape Floral Region (Western and Eastern Cape: natural heritage)
7. Vredefort Dome (Free State: natural heritage)
8. Richtersveld Cultural and Botanical Landscape (Northern Cape: cultural heritage)
Page 36 of 36

south africa - BEA Institute

Transcription

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