FAQs
Question
Is there a dress code?
Answer
Smart casual - a step above Spoons but below the Ritz. Think elevated garden party.
Question
When do I need to RSVP by?
Answer
We would be super appreciative it if you could RSVP as soon as possible, so that the chronically unorganised bride doesn't stress out (despite barely being involved in the planning) and the project planner (aka the Groom) can actually organise the day. If we haven't heard from you two months before the wedding, we will assume you aren't coming. As a heads up, it's a long way to fly to be turned away at the door...
Question
How do I tell you about allergies and food preferences?
Answer
Please include these in the RSVP. We know about quite a few, but would be grateful for the updated list when you respond. Please note the menu has been designed to capture both vegan and vegetarian options for those that require them.
Question
Are there any other events that I should know about around the wedding?
Answer
We are hosting wine tasting at Boschendal the day before and we would love for you all to join us. We are also hosting a recovery picnic the day after for those hardcore people who can hack it (we are quite scared that we can't hack it and you'll all be sitting on the grass without us)...
Question
Can I bring a plus one?
Answer
Bold question given the 12 hour flight. Simple answer, this should have been included in your invite. We would be grateful if you could RSVP for both you and your plus one when responding (including confirming whether you are bringing them). If you genuinely think we've forgotten someone on your invite (a new child, a change of significant other or an emotional support pet), or things have changed since sending your RSVP, send one of us a message and we will sort it.
Question
Where is Franschhoek?
Answer
Google maps will reliably inform you that Franschhoek is about an hours drive away from Cape Town International Airport. Ubers and taxis between the airport and Franschhoek are plentiful and can take you from one location to the other. Alternatively car rental is also an option. IF RENTING A CAR PLEASE NOTE THE FOLLOWING There have been recent attacks and violent crime on secondary roads to and from Cape Town airport. You should: stay on the M3 and N2 avoid the R300 stay on ‘airport approach road’ (exit 16 on the N2) and avoid Borcherd’s Quarry Road leading to Nyanga avoid following GPS navigation routes that take you away from main roads
Question
How safe is Franschhoek? How safe is South Africa generally?
Answer
Franschhoek is a pretty safe area, but maybe don't walk around pissed at night? As for South Africa generally, it's all a bit mixed, but the travel guidance tends to be please don't walk around at night by yourself. Also, please be cautious when using GPS if driving yourself, there have been previous incidents of tourists driving into townships with unsavory consequences. The UK Foreign Office has more detail which can be found here: https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/south-africa/safety-and-security
Question
What about load shedding?
Answer
For those not in the know, load shedding is that fun couple hours in the day when Eskom turns off the power in certain regions and has been a regular star in South African life since 2007. South Africans like to talk about it like Brits talk about the weather. However in a stroke of luck for us and a great win for South Africa, it seems to have stopped? We're as confused as you are on this one... However, everywhere we have recommended to stay has generator or back up power options, as does Boschendal. If Eskom decides it's necessary again, we'll link to the handy little app that tells you when the power is out so you can charge devices and maybe avoid driving (the traffic lights don't work during outages).
Question
Adapters, mobile phones and the little things?
Answer
So, if you don't know anything about this, the airport guys are going to love you... South Africa decided to look at an English plug and look at a European plug and go "huh, we just can't choose, we'll go with a bit of everything". Buy a 3pin adapter - some European adapters will work in 2 prong plugs, but rooms may not always have these Sim cards are available at the airport for a reasonable price. 10GB data cost me £20 at the airport. E-sims are also an option. During the pandemic South Africa went cashless for the most part, so don't get a load of rand. As much as it makes you feel like a millionare throwing 100 rand notes about, they'll pretty much be useless to you. If you can get some small notes and coins they're useful for the cultural phenomenon of "Car Guards" (only relevant to those hiring a car).