Homeleigh Halt Guest House

Archive for the ‘Currency’ Category

South Africans are proud of their banknotes: not only are they politically neutral, but they also give fair representation to all 11 official languages.  The design of the banknotes, issued by the South African Reserve Bank, drew inspiration from the wildlife of southern Africa, the main motifs across the series being the Big Five – a distinctly South African theme.  Highly regarded internationally as both beautiful and secure, the banknotes carry some of the world’s most advanced security features.

• Main Motif: As a design feature, each note contains one of the Big Five, with a smaller grouping of the same animal to the left.  (Spotting the Big Five : Rhinoceros, elephant, lion, buffalo and leopard)
• Watermark: A security feature, when held up to the light, the banknote reveals a shadow picture of the main motif and the denomination numeral.
• Geometric Shape: An aid for the partially blind, each banknote contains a different geometric shape.
• Diamond Shapes: A feature for the blind, each banknote contains diamond shapes in raised printing. 1 diamond equals R10; 2 diamonds equal R20; 3 diamonds equal R50; 4 diamonds equal R100; and 5 diamonds equal R200.
• Intaglio Printing (raised printing): A security feature, the ink in the main and secondary motifs, the diamond shapes and the words “South African Reserve Bank” stand proud of the paper, giving the banknote a rough feel.

Accommodation: Bed & Breakfast, Port Elizabeth, South Africa: Homeleigh Halt Guest House

The local currency is the South African rand, comprising 100 cents. Coin denominations of  5c, 10c, 20c, 50c, R1, R2, and R5 are available, as are note denominations of R10, R20, R50, R100 and R200.

 Tourists will generally experience a favourable rate of exchange when visiting South Africa. However, South Africa has very strict currency exchange laws and currency can therefore only be exchanged at banks and official bureaux de changes. 

South Africa’s banking system is said to be one of the most advanced in the world. 

Bank branches and ATMs are widely available countrywide.

 All major credit cards are accepted in South Africa, which includes  American Express, Diners Club , MasterCard and Visa.

It is essential however to carry a small amount of cash, as there are certain places where credit cards are not accepted.

Local street vendors selling beautiful African curios do not have card facilities so it is important that you have cash to make that all important memorable purchase!

VAT ( Value Added Tax ) is 14% and this is levied on most goods and services.  VAT can, however, be reclaimed at point of international departure.

If you would like any additional information please do not hesitate to contact Lynn at Homeleigh Halt Guest House (Bed & Breakfast style).