Giuseppe Segneri (nickname Polix), a windsurfer from Rome, went to South Africa in January 2018, and he was completely conquered by this windsurfing (and not only) paradise. In this first article, he provides many valuable information on the organization of the trip, both for those who want to go there for windsurfing, but also for those who simply want to go and visit a fantastic country.
Windsurf spot reviews: South Africa, tips for the journey
The departure
My journey begins on January 16th between a thousand expectations and many curiosities. Me and my friends start from Rome Aerport with Emirates airlines, which allows you to load in the hold 2 baggages, for a total weight of 30 kg, and a substantial carry-on baggage trolley. Excellent Airline, the journey is long and stops in Dubai; during the trip you can watch movies and the food served is good enough.
Editor's note: Many people fly with Emirates taking advantage of its generous policy, regarding hold baggage. In fact, Emirates in addition to the maximum weight of hold baggage that can reach 30 kgs, tolerates rather abundant dimensions. The total sum of the dimensions of the baggage is 300 cms, and, as mentioned, the permissible weight (economy saver class) is 30 kgs. Respecting these limits, the boarding of the equipment is free in place, however, of hold baggage (otherwise, they are at least 160 dollars more - prices 2018). A bag for windsurfing equipment (240 x 60 x 40 cm), exceeds the total limit of 300 cm. They tend not to control, and many risk (the checks seem to be approximate) .... To avoid to pay for the second baggage in hold, you have to put almost all the clothes in the carry-on bag .....
An excellent alternative is to fly with Turkish Airlines, making a stopover in Istanbul. Prices are reasonable and 1 hold baggage of 20 kg is allowed. The transport of windsurfing equipment costs 90 euros for each route, from Europe to South Africa (180 euros A / R), with dimensions of 240 x 60 x 40 cm and weight of 32 kg.
The Europe-South Africa route is also served by KLM and Lufthansa, which, however, have prices, in general, less convenient and more inconvenient times.
To enter South Africa, you need an electronic passport (see photo below). Local authorities are more and more severe in denying access to foreigners who do not have a document with these characteristics. The visa is necessary for stays longer than 90 days. Up to 90 days, the tourist visa is issued directly upon arrival at the border. For stays longer than 90 days it is necessary to apply for an entry visa to the diplomatic-consular network of South Africa in your country. The driving license is accepted according to the model of the European Union, but to rent a vehicle it is necessary the international driving license. However, contact the car rental company in advance, because some still accept the license of your country. For detailed information, we always invite you to consult the website of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of your country.
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