Moving to South Africa

Expats choose to move to South Africa for its outdoor lifestyle, high standard of living and a business environment with plenty of opportunity. Retirees are drawn by the wonderful climate, relatively cheap cost of living and access to beachfront homes for affordable prices. The most popular cities for expats moving to South Africa are Cape Town and Johannesburg.

The economy is fairly stable and the policies of the left-leaning ANC-led government are tempered by a Constitution that enshrines minority rights and private property rights. Crime is perceived as a major problem affecting both private citizens and businesses. Private security is therefore essential and can easily be contracted for affordable rates.

Moving to South Africa gives many advantages to the expat. Within its borders there is considerable diversity and splendid natural beauty. From the 24-hour bustle of Johannesburg’s business centre, to the beach and mountain framed vistas of lovely Cape Town, South Africa offers the prospect of space, clean air, and abundant opportunities for business and leisure activities. You have an idiosyncratic combination of first and third world elements here that many find exciting, despite the problems that such a mixture presents.

One such drawback is that with so many cultures competing for resources, against an historical background of Apartheid, tensions do result and true national reconciliation is some way off yet. For expats though, adapting to the culture is relatively easy, and enjoying the new lifestyle absolutely effortless.

Detailed travel guide to South Africa from Word Travels