Culture Shock in South Africa
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A typical South African braaiIt is entirely natural for expats to feel a degree of culture shock in South Africa given the country's complex society and eclectic nature. With its sweeping geographic variations, 11 official languages and various cultures in close co-existence, the Rainbow Nation can be an easy place to blend in, but also presents expats with unique challenges.
Some expats will be relieved to know that there is no wildlife roaming the streets; that while crime is a reality, it is often sensationalised by the media; and that public infrastructure is generally good.
Inequality in South Africa
Expats moving to South Africa from the West are often the most taken aback by the country's glaring wealth disparity. It’s not uncommon to see the newest Mercedes Benz model parked next to someone rummaging through a garbage bin. Guilty can overwhelm new arrivals, but expats should be careful about indulging beggars or opening their home to those in need. The best way to make a positive difference is to donate to registered charities.
Safety in South Africa
Expats moving to Johannesburg will especially encounter an obsession with personal safety. Homes are surrounded by electrified fences walls and guarded by private security firms while, for many, walking outside in parks is unheard of. The role that crime plays in many people's lives may be the most unfamiliar and disconcerting feature of integrating into South African society.
The good news is that there has been a push towards urban renewal, with an increased emphasis on reducing crime. More and more people are enjoying Johannesburg's outdoor spaces and trendy inner-city areas. At the same time, walking around the streets, beaches and parks in Cape Town is much more common.
Time in South Africa
The concept of African time can be an adjustment for expats settling into their new life. Foreigners especially find the local concept of time strange. South Africans often measure moments in 'now', 'just now' and 'now now' – respectively meaning 'anytime between the next 20 minutes and tomorrow', 'anytime within the day', and 'anytime within the hour'. For many South Africans, there is no rush if it can be done later.
This is not true in the South African corporate world which upholds very Western standards of punctuality and decorum. It functions relatively efficiently, although social engagements and government enterprise often function on African time. Expats should not take problems with punctuality or light-hearted rescheduling personally – this is a cultural norm.