5 Tips for World Cup 2010 Visitors in South Africa

As the South African Nation prepares for World Cup 2010, an estimated of 500,000 soccer fans from around the world are looking for World Cup Accommodation in the nine different cities that are hosting World Cup Matches. A majority of which are visiting South Africa for the first time. And like many visitors to foreign countries, there are many safety precautions one should take before and during their visit. It's well known that the crime rate is relatively high in South Africa . But this shouldn't dissuade you from visiting a beautiful country that is both rich in culture and wildlife. Common sense and a little preparation will ensure a safe and fun filled trip. So for the weary traveler, I present to you 5 tips for visiting South Africa for the World Cup. This list is in no particular order.

1. Do your research

Before you arrive to your city destination, you should do some research of the surrounding area for your place of accommodation. Research nearby restaurants, parks, stores, bus routes etc. and their locations so you are able to plan out your daily activities and how to get to them. Also, you should speak to the people you will be staying with about where the safer areas of the neighborhood are. This way, you aren't spending your days aimlessly venturing out in an unfamiliar city, putting yourself at risk of getting lost or ending up in a bad neighborhood.

2. Travel in groups

Avoid traveling alone. It is less likely that you will be become a victim to a crime if you are traveling with another person or in a group. If you must travel alone, make sure you are visiting areas of the city that have a lot of foot traffic.

3. Keep photocopies of important documentation

You should make sure you have photocopies of your passports, ID, and credit cards. This will speed the process of getting documents replaced should they go missing.

4. Try staying in a locals home

If you really want a sense for life in South Africa and want the inside scoop for where to go and what to do, stay with a local. There are a few websites that give you a great selection of places to stay, like iStopOver.

5. Don't feed the animals

South Africa is known for their wild life and abundance of game reserves.  If you are planning to venture out of urban areas, you are bound to come across some wild life. Although it's hard to resist the temptation of getting up close and personal with them, it would be strongly advised to keep a safe distance as South Africa contains a lot of dangerous wildlife. Lion cubs may look cute and cuddly but there is surely a hungry mother looking for lunch not far away.

This list is by no means exhaustive and definitely not limited to these 5 tips. So I strongly suggest readers to post their own suggestions!