South Africa
What do expats find most challenging?
We asked expats and digital nomads what they find the most challenging about the local culture in South Africa. They wrote...
"Expats in South Africa often find the local culture to be quite different from what they are used to. Many find the pace of life to be slower than what they are accustomed to, and the lack of punctuality can be a challenge. Additionally, the language barrier can be difficult to overcome, as English is not the primary language in South Africa. Expats may also find the local customs and etiquette to be unfamiliar, and the cost of living can be higher than expected," said another expat in South Africa.
Other Questions:
- What do I need to know before retiring in South Africa?
- How do I meet people in South Africa?
- What is life like in South Africa?
- Is there a lot of crime in South Africa?
- Is there a lot of diversity? Are people in South Africa accepting of differences?
- What are the schools in South Africa like?
- Is the cost of living in South Africa high?
- What advice do you have for expats having a baby in South Africa?
- What are healthcare services like in South Africa?
- Is the cost of living in South Africa high?
- What type of recreational facilities are in South Africa?
- What is the weather like in South Africa?
- Are there good restaurants in South Africa?
- Where will I buy groceries and do other shopping in South Africa?
- What are the visa & residency requirements in South Africa?
- Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in South Africa?
- What do I need to know when buying property in South Africa?
- Are foreigners allowed to own property in South Africa?
- What appliances are typically included in a rental?
What do expats find most challenging?
If you live in South Africa, newcomers to South Africa would love to hear your answer to this question.
About the Author
Betsy Burlingame is the Founder and President of Expat Exchange and is one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. She launched Expat Exchange in 1997 as her Master's thesis project at NYU. Prior to Expat Exchange, Betsy worked at AT&T in International
and Mass Market Marketing. She graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University
with a BA in International Business and German.
Some of Betsy's articles include 12 Best Places to Live in Portugal, 7 Best Places to Live in Panama and 12 Things to Know Before Moving to the Dominican Republic. Betsy loves to travel and spend time with her family. Connect with Betsy on LinkedIn.
