Cape Town is the second most populous metropolis after Johannesburg in South Africa and is a popular expat destination. As a coastal city, Cape Town has most – visited destination V&A Waterfront, one of the New Seven Wonders of the world – Table Mountain and a UNESCO World Heritage Site – Robben Island. Therefore, Cape Town is also a popular tourist destination attracting millions of international visitors around the world. Cape Town ranked top three of Africa‘s main economic centre. Industries such as wood product manufacturing, financial services and clothing have a better comparative advantage in Cape Town.
Cape Town Expat Guide:
1. Dining
One of the must-try traditional snack foods in Cape Town is Biltong, which is a flavored dried meat. Another unique dish in Cape Town is Waterblommetjie Bredie, which is a wildflower. South African people cook the wildflower with potato and some meat. During weekends, hosting a barbecue party is popular in Cape Town. Cape Town expats will enjoy a wide variety of dining choices in the city.
2. Shopping
Expats and visitors will find Cape Town’s shopping experience very pleasant. There are markets with jewellery, clothing and crafts. No matter you are looking for international boutique brands, or local design, Cape Town has much to offer.
3. Healthcare
Like Johannesburg, Cape Town’s healthcare facilities are considered of a high standard in Africa. However, the public medical facilities aim to serve local communities, often understaffed with long queues. Expats moving to Cape Town will want to use the private healthcare system. This is not only because the private medical care system provides more comfortable medical services, but also the privacy many westerners require. Expats living in Johannesburg should obtain adequate international health insurance coverage if want to use private medical facilities.
4. Vaccinations
Expats moving to Cape Town should check their vaccination status before leaving. Some recommendations include Diphtheria, Tetanus, Pertussis, Polio, Hepatitis A and C, etc. It is critical for expats to consult a medical professional about vaccination requirements before departure.
5. Safety & Security
According to the Government of Canada, though there is no nationwide advisory for South Africa, expats and visitors should avoid taking commuter trains in Cape Town due to the increasingly violent attacks in recent years. Expats and visitors should also avoid large gatherings and political demonstrations, as they have the potential to turn violent.
6. Insurance for Expatriates in Cape Town
Most expatriates will want to obtain international medical coverage if residing in Cape Town. Medical evacuation is recommended along with a plan that provided global medical treatment and care. A plan that will provide reimbursement for medical expenses via a large network of hospitals is recommended and some insurers have access to all the large medical clinics and hospitals in the city. Many expats should also obtain global life and disability insurance coverage when living in an African city such as Cape Town.
Here is a list of different types of insurance coverage you will want if you are planning to become an expatriate in Cape Town:
- International Health Insurance
- Expat Life and Disability Insurance
- Travel Insurance
- Evacuation Coverage
- Group Expat Insurance Plans
If you require a quote for insurance coverage for expats reside in Cape Town, contact Expat Financial today for a quote and to discuss your expatriate insurance requirements.
