Travel Note
We’re so excited that you’re traveling to South Africa to celebrate with us! Here are a few things to keep in mind as you start planning your trip: First of all, make sure you have all the vaccinations and immunizations required for SA - please check the CDC website (https://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/destinations/traveler/none/south-africa) and speak to your doctor about what you need/what is optional. If you intend to go on safari or travel elsewhere in Africa, chances are you may also need Malaria medication . Late August is early Spring in SA, so it may be a bit cooler than many visitors expect. In Johannesburg, temperatures range from the low 40s at night to the 70s during the day (~8 - 21 degrees, for you Celsius folks.) So pack appropriately! Lastly, note that South Africa's time zone is UTC+02:00 (6 hours ahead of New York/Boston in August) - keep it in mind if you are prone to jet lag.
Travel Note
We have reserved blocks of rooms at two hotels (both Marriott) in an area called Melrose Arch, about a minute apart from each other. Details for group booking rates are below. Johannesburg is a huge, sprawling city, so if you want to stay somewhere else, we suggest making sure it’s nearby. If you're concerned about safety, note that Melrose Arch is a secure complex with lots of restaurants, shops, hairdressers, cafes, etc. all within easy walking distance. There will be shuttles running between the hotels and the venue on wedding day. However, if you'd prefer to stay closer to the venue that night, we've also listed some options below.
Flight
August is still the low season for tourism in South Africa, so demand for flights is not particularly high. There are a few direct flights to Johannesburg from the US, and tons of options with a connection in Europe or the Middle East. Jess and Dan have routinely connected through Amsterdam, Paris, and Dubai – all are perfectly fine. Within South Africa: Johannesburg is the hub for domestic air travel in South Africa. The domestic airlines are generally inexpensive and safe. As you plan your pre- or post-wedding adventures, you may want to look at these airlines: 1) South African Airways 2) British Airways 3) Kulula 4) Mango 5) SAfair
Hotel
(1) The African Pride Hotel - R2,460 / room / night (2) Protea Fire & Ice - R2,160 / room / night Please contact the designated booking agents at each (below) and ask for the discounted rate for the Benjamin/Rabb wedding: (1) African Pride: Morne Visser at morne.visser@africanpridehotels.com (2) Protea Fire & Ice: Ephia Dikgale at ephia.dikgale@proteahotels.com Accommodation in Muldersdrift (near the wedding venue): Kloofzicht - http://kloofzicht.co.za/ Riverstone - http://www.riverstonelodge.co.za/ Kenjara Lodge - https://www.kenjara.co.za/