So, for the past 2 months I have been working in the stunning country of South Africa on a project for one of our amazing clients here at Love Luxury Events. It has been quite challenging facing the things that everyone in SA takes for granted, we may both speak English but it’s a different ball game all together when you work in such a rich and diverse cultural country.

Here I dive into some of the funny experiences I have faced working in the Eastern Cape, so grab your cuppa or your braai tongs, and let’s dive in!

Load Shedding

First up, let’s talk about load shedding. Now, coming from the Northern Hemisphere and thinking that I had experienced power cuts, well you haven’t truly lived until you’ve experienced load shedding in South Africa. Picture this: you’re in the middle of working, the sun is scorching, and suddenly, poof! The power goes out. But fear not, South Africans are pros at rolling with the punches. They whip out the candles, light up the braai, and carry on as if nothing happened. It’s all part of the adventure!

Now Now?

Now, let’s tackle the concept of time. In England, “now” means, well, now. In South Africa, “now now” is a whole different story. It’s a vague, elastic concept that could mean anything from a few minutes to a few hours. Then you maybe told ‘’just now’’ Realistically it’s an unknown amount of time… could refer to a few minutes, tomorrow or never. So, when a South African tells you they will be ready now, now now, or just now I look at them totally perplexed. It makes finalising timings and details to projects somewhat challenging!

Braai vs BBQ

The beloved braai. South Africa’s answer to the barbecue. It’s not just a way of cooking food; it’s a way of life. You haven’t truly experienced South African culture until you’ve spent a sunny afternoon gathered around the braai with friends, sipping on a cold one, and indulging in some lekker (that’s “delicious” in South African slang) grilled meats. Just don’t forget the boerewors (sausage) and the pap (maize meal) and when I say meat, they literally cook enough to feed an army. The meat is delicious but my goodness if you wanted some salad with half a cow served, best you bring your own!

Sauna on Wheels!

Now, let’s talk about the weather. England may have its fair share of rain and gloom, but nothing compares to the scorching heat of a South African summer. It’s so hot, you could fry an egg on the pavement. And don’t even get me started on trying to drive with the windows down. It’s like sitting in a sauna on wheels! I thought I was doing ok but when the locals tell you, wait until you experience February and the heat it never fills me with confidence. I can certainly confirm its hot baby!

The Frogger ™ Experience

Speaking of driving, let’s address the chaotic dance that is South African traffic. Forget about orderly queues and polite drivers. In South Africa, it’s every man for himself. From mini-bus taxis darting in and out of lanes to pedestrians playing real-life Frogger™ on the streets, potholes the size of paddling pools navigating South African roads is not for the faint of heart. But hey, it’s all part of the adventure, right? It’s like the rule book got thrown out, it’s South Africa so let’s do it anyway.

The Language Melting Pot

Last but not least, let’s talk languages. While English may be the common language in both England and South Africa, the similarities end there. South Africa is a melting pot of cultures and languages, with 11 official languages spoken across the country. From isiZulu to Afrikaans to Xhosa, it’s a linguistic tapestry that adds flavour to everyday conversations. So don’t be surprised if you find yourself picking up a few new words and phrases along the way.

Whether it’s navigating load shedding, mastering the art of the braai, or surviving the sweltering heat, one thing’s for sure: life is never dull on the other side of the equator. Cheers to embracing our differences and finding humour in the quirks that make each culture unique! The country is a diverse melting pot that welcomes visitors and really makes you feel that no matter what language you speak we can all laugh at our little idiosyncrasies.

Whilst enjoying all that South Africa has offered in the last 2 months, Love Luxury Events have had an absolute ball working with new clients and planning some unique and memorable events for 2024.