FAQ's

In Cape Town, you can expect temperatures to range from 15–27°C (59–81°F), with occasional windy days. Rainfall is minimal, and it's a great time to explore the outdoors. March in South Africa is a great time for the Americans and Brits to escape seasonal depression from the long winter.

Americans do not need a visa for stays of up to 90 days in South Africa for tourism. However, your passport must be valid for at least 30 days beyond your intended stay and have at least two blank pages for entry stamps. Always check the latest requirements before you travel.

The South African Rand (ZAR) is the currency used. If you're from the UK or USA, get ready to splurge because it is usually 18+ ZAR to the Dollar.

Yes, international phones will work in Cape Town, but we suggest speaking to your provider about the best package or rates before leaving. You are also able to purchase a South African sim card and we would recommend choosing MTN or Vodacom as the provider.

South Africa operates on 230V and 50Hz, which is higher than the 120V used in the US and Canada. This means that some devices—like your hair dryer, curling iron, or straightener—won’t work unless they are dual voltage. If you need styling tools, check the label for “110-240V” or just plan to use the hotel’s hair dryer instead. Most modern phones, tablets, and laptops are dual voltage, so they’ll work fine with just a plug adapter (not a full voltage converter). But always check your device label—if it says 100-240V, 50/60Hz, you’re good to go! (Both Matt and I are able to charge our phones and laptops.)

We recommend this power adapter & converter that works for US devices in South Africa: Universal Travel Adapter & Voltage Converter

Yes. His name is Brian Smith and he is a groomsman.

No, citizens of the US, UK, and EU do not need a visa to visit South Africa for up to 90 days. However, you must have at least one blank page in your passport to enter the country.

We're not going to sugarcoat it—Cape Town isn't within walking distance! The best option is to fly United or Delta directly. It's about 14 hours from Newark, Washington Dulles, or Atlanta International Airports. The return flight is a bit longer at 16.5 hours. If you're worried about it, just reach out to Saskia — she's got all the insider tips on surviving long flights! Trust us, once you experience South Africa, you'll agree it was totally worth it. We also recommend booking your flights in advance since it's prime summer in Cape Town during this period, and prices tend to go up closer to the date.

You would fly into Cape Town International Airport. However, you are also able to fly into OR Tambo International Airport in Johannesburg and then connect to Cape Town International Airport. Please note that we do not recommend spending anytime in Johannesburg itself.

Cape Town offers Uber, and we recommend using Uber Black if you can. Alternatively, hiring a car is a great way to explore the city. Keep in mind that driving is on the left side of the road, which is different from in the USA. But don't worry—if Saskia can do it, so can you! 😉

Please do not use Cape Town's public transport.

The safest areas to stay in Cape Town are Camps Bay, Clifton, V&A Waterfront, Green Point, Sea Point and Oranjezicht. These neighborhoods are secure, well-located, and offer great dining, scenery, and amenities. Please contact Saskia if you're not sure of a particular area.

Like any major city (e.g. Chicago), Cape Town has areas where extra caution is needed. Avoid displaying valuables (including your car), stay aware of your surroundings, and avoid certain areas at night.

It's best to avoid township tours, walking down Long Street, walking alone around the CBD at night and hiking without a group. Always stay in well-populated areas.

Cape Town is an amazing destination, but we highly recommend leaving valuable jewelry—like engagement rings—at home and just bringing your wedding bands. This helps avoid any stress over loss, theft, or damage while traveling. If you do bring it, here’s how to keep it safe: ✅ Wear it discreetly or opt for a simple travel band. ✅ Keep it in your carry-on—never in checked luggage. ✅ Make sure it’s insured under a travel policy that covers jewelry. ✅ Be extra mindful in public places and hotel safes (e.g., turn your ring around to hide the stone).

No special vaccinations are required for Cape Town, but it's a good idea to be up-to-date on routine vaccines. However, we're not medical experts so check in with your Dr if you're concerned.

Yes, tap water in Cape Town is generally safe to drink, and Saskia has been drinking it her whole life. However, when traveling to any new country, it is sometimes recommended to drink bottled water as an extra precaution.

The wedding venue is situated in the Cape Winelands, approximately a 1.5-hour drive from Cape Town. We recommend finding accommodation in Franschhoek for the wedding events.

Formal / Black Tie Optional: Men: Suit or tuxedo but we are not requesting ties or bow ties unless you would like to. Women: Long evening dress, dressy cocktail dress, or a formal jumpsuit.

Yes, there will be parking available at the venue.

While we would love to include everyone, we kindly ask that you respect our request for an adults-only celebration. Should you need childcare, please contact Saskia; depending on the number of requests, we may arrange a babysitter on the premises. Please RSVP only for those listed on your invitation. Thank you for your understanding.

We kindly ask that you refrain from wearing sneakers. Unless it's 11pm at night and you're enjoying Bowenpalooza. (Lollapalooza is a large music festival that takes place annually in Chicago)