Seasoned traveller offers tips to avoid the pitfalls

Travelling in Africa is not for the faint-hearted – and it’s all about preparation, say the experts. Jackie Tong, director at Ernst & Young with responsibility for managing the HR function for 23 African countries, says it is important to research the destination. Having travelled to many African countries deemed “dangerous”, Tong says it is about being prepared. “I follow some very basic rules that include knowing exactly what the do’s and don’ts are of the country I am visiting. I know exactly where I am staying and who is picking me up from the airport while I also have contact numbers of people I can call immediately should anything go wrong.” She says it is also advisable to always travel with small denominations of US currency in Africa. “Also do not assume that international roaming for your phone will automatically work and that credit cards will be readily accepted. Researching the social conventions of the country being visited is often helpful,” says Tong