In one corner are those who hate the vuvuzela, and expect it to blight the World Cup.  Poster-boy for the anti-vuvuzela movement is Spanish midfielder Xabi Alonso, who believes the instrument does nothing for the atmosphere and should be banned. He is supported by numerous mostly European fans who have been venting on online forums across the internet:

These things make among the more annoying noises on the planet. There’s no room for rhythm or beat or anything like it, it’s just the same nails-on-the-chalkboard monotone honk, over and over from all sides with absolutely no regard for what’s going on in the game or with other people using the same instrument. Maybe South Africans find that appealing. Nobody else does and it absolutely does detract from the viewing or game experience.

In the other corner are the majority of South Africans, and anyone else who may feel a bit annoyed by the arrogance of a call to ban the instrument. For the moment Sepp Blatter seems to be in this camp, but enough international pressure may force him to reconsider.

To be fair, the vuvuzela is an extremely abrasive sound, especially if you haven’t grown up knowing it as the sound of soccer. For this reason, most South Africans would probably be happy to make some compromises regarding their use of the vuvuzela, if engaged in a respectful manner. But vitriol and demands from vuvuzela-haters is unlikely to result in a satisfactory result.

Lets hope whatever FIFA decides, regarding the fate of the vuvuzela, that it does so with an eye on compromise. It may be that many foreigners are showing a precious, parochial streak towards this issue, but if they are really that unhappy about it, it may be wise to humour them. It would be disappointing for the World Cup to be ruined by their sulking.

Then again, maybe an encounter with a few thousand vuvuzelas will force the world, and soccer, to actually adopt some of the ideals of “ tolerance, respect, etc. “ that it constantly preaches.

 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).