Robots & Taxi Drivers from out of space
Cape Town's a stunning city to visit and explore and the best way to do that is to hire a car! But beware! South Africa's accident rate is horrendous and one of the worst in the world!!
Remember in South Africa you drive on the Left hand side of the road......(unless your a taxi driver from Jo'burg!!!!).
It's compulsory to carry an international driving permit that's written in English.
Make sure you keep to the speed limits (speed cameras are commonplace) and obey basic driving rules. It's illegal to use any cellphone while driving unless it's a hands free. Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs is a serious offence!! If you decide to indulge yourself then arrange for a driver or taxi service.
Always have the phone number of the destinations you are visiting in case you get lost.
Never pick up hitch hikers and keep your doors locked. Never leave valuables lying around the car, keep them out of sight. Any time you feel unsure or threatened make your way to the nearest Police Station and when there sound your horn till someone comes out to help you.
Don't get worried when South Africans refer to Robots,there not on the latest drug, they just mean traffic lights!!.......(unless they are taxi driver from Jo'burg, in which case they probably are on the latest drug!!!!).
The freeways and city roads are well maintained and well signposted with several 24 hr. petrol stations in most suburbs. In the countryside it's another story with many gravel roads and petrol stations few and far between. Don't totally rely on what guidebooks say about Petrol stations or you could end up stuck dry in the middle of nowhere.
Above all take it easy and arrive alive!!