South Africa Expat Forum

Port Elizabeth Neighborhoods

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dek8ce

6/19/2012 14:57 EST

My wife, soon to be new daughter, and I are moving to Port Elizabeth, South Africa, in late 2012. We're beginning to look at neighborhoods and are a bit overwhelmed. We're looking for a safe place to live in a good area. We'd like a secure yard and a pool.

We're also looking at cars. I've done some reading and see that car jackings are pretty common. What is a nice car that won't stick out too much? We'd prefer all wheel drive/4WD and be big enough for a car seat for our new born baby.

Thanks in advance for the help!
-David

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RodP

6/22/2012 08:05 EST

Hi David

They Port Elizabeth (universally known as PE) the friendly city, so I am sure that you will enjoy your stay there. Are you on assignment with your employer? If so will they be providing you with relocation assistance? I would recommend that you ask them to. Finding suitable secure accommodation can be tricky if you don't know what you are doing.
As to cars - they are a little more expensive than in Europe and quite a lot more than The States. As an expatriate, financing the purchase of a car can also be difficult, so you may need to bring in funds for that purpose. There are no restrictions as to how much money you can bring in at the start, and take out at the end of your contract.
The selection of cars that are available, both new and used in South Africa is a wide one, although few American models. Large SUVs are expensive. Check out www.carfind.co.za to get some idea of availability and new and used car prices.

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dek8ce

6/22/2012 08:24 EST

Thanks so much. Yes I'll be on assignment with my company. Relocation will be provided and they'll purchase a car for me and my family. Just curious what style of car to get. Although I currently drive a full size truck in the US, I'm leaning towards a smaller SUV style such as a Kia Sportage or Sorento.

Are there any particular neighborhoods you recommend or are a good place to start looking?

Thanks again for all the help!

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RodP

6/29/2012 09:05 EST

The best suburbs are Humewood, Walmer and Summerstrand. The last is near the sea (a bit windy) and has many apartments and townhouses.
As to cars - indeed the Kia small SUVs are very popular, as are the Hyundai, Toyota and Honda. Volkswagen & GM have factories in PE, so their cars are also popular there.

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