Africa and especially South Africa is becoming a frequent tourism destination, so business travel to it is also becoming a regular practice for many companies because it is growing into a very powerful economy. Additionally, European companies can benefit from the Free Trade Agreement signed by South Africa and the European Union.If we ask you right now if you know someone who has been to Africa, surely someone will come to mind quickly. Although it is not a very common destination, in recent years, tourism has increased. And it is a good place for a safari on the African continent. But not only pleasure brings travelers to South Africa. So does business.
Africa is a very popular tourist destination, a sector that provides a substantial part of the country’s income. However, mining has been the main reason why the continent is within the major world economies. It is currently the second-largest gold producer in the world. Also, the Johannesburg Stock Exchange is the largest stock exchange in Africa and also has a good position in the ranking of the largest stock markets in the world.
Furthermore, Africa is a market with great development potential for European companies, since they can take advantage of the Free Trade Agreement signed by South Africa and the European Union. Africa’s main international trading partners include Germany, the United States, China, Japan, the United Kingdom, and Spain. With all this, Africa is increasingly a business travel destination for professionals from European companies in different fields. In fact, Africa already hosts important international conventions, especially in the scientific and medical fields.
And it is that South Africa is a claim for the organizers of congresses, conventions, meetings, incentive trips and fairs since it offers a unique nature and adventure offer, which not only attracts the traveler during the days of the meeting but also encourages extending the stay a few days for b-leisure, the trend so fashionable at the moment.
Thus, in the last two years, the South African government has launched aid amounting to 6 million euros to boost even more strongly the holding of large congresses of associations, meetings, incentives and fairs in the country in the next three years. With this program, the government aims to increase both the number of corporate events.
If you have a business trip to Africa or if you travel to the country to attend a meeting, keep these tips in mind:
Security
Regarding security, most Foreign Ministries clarifies that, although most tourists that travel to Africa do not suffer major incidents and the authorities strive to ensure their protection, it must be borne in mind that there is a very high degree of crime, sometimes violent. In this sense, the embassy advises making photocopies of the travel documentation separate from the originals. Do not leave with too much cash and avoid showing off valuables. Be cautious when using ATMs to avoid theft or fraud with card data. Avoid strolling through city centers and beaches after dark, nor do it alone. Get informed at the hotel of which places to avoid, as well as the safe itineraries and the means of transport to use, especially taxis and trains.
Tips: If you want to feel safe during your trip, consider checking with Enjoy and comparing car hire.
Economic deals
For economic transactions, although the official currency is different, it is best to carry US dollars or euros in cash, in addition to a credit card. Also remember that tips are taken for granted, especially in the most tourist areas, and represent between 10 and 15 percent of the total amount.
Communication
As for telecommunications, keep in mind that mobile phone coverage is good in major urban areas and major roads. Regarding WiFi, the connection is good, not only in places like hotels but also in call centers and internet cafes. And remember to bring a plug adapter. In Africa, the common voltage is 230 V and the frequency is 50 Hz. The plugs and sockets are D and M type, with three wide legs.
After all this, we hope that if you are going on a business trip to Africa, this article will be very useful for you. Take our tips into account and enjoy all that the country has to offer, as it is a unique place.
