There are no special restrictions imposed on families accompanying foreign personnel working in South Africa. The deposit will be refunded upon removal of goods or if the owner becomes a permanent South African resident. Rates are considered modest depending on the type of accommodations. Reservations should be made in advance, particularly in resort areas during the peak summer months of December and January. Eating customs and menus are similar to those in Western Europe.
Drinking water is both ample and safe.
Tipping is lower than in Europe or the United States and ten percent is the typical rate. It is customary to tip porters, taxi drivers, waiters, and stewards. As the new Civil Aviation Agreement currently allows up to 16 direct flights from the U.S. per week, it is expected that other U.S. carriers will begin direct service in the near future. Over fifty foreign air carriers serve South Africa, including most European, Asian, and African airlines. U.S. Government offices in South Africa are closed on American legal holidays.