Hello South Africa

[gicknib]

Hello, my name is Nick and I am moving to SA from America on October 28th.  I am moving to the Stellenbosch area with my fiance and am super excited, thrilled, nervous, and fairly scared.  I thought it might be a good idea to post on here in hopes of gaining some knowledge and expertise from you all.  Any tips/ suggestions would be greatly appreciated.  

I am moving from Colorado where I have spent the last decade working my way up in the ski/ resort industry.  I do not have a job lined up yet in SA, and am pretty nervous considering I hear a lot of rumors that I will have a difficult time finding employment (not to mention I am not rich).  Nonetheless, I welcome a challenge and am excited.  My fiance is from SA originally and we will luckily have her family for a support system.  I have visited SA once two years ago and thought it was an amazing place.  As I am super bummed that I this will be the first year in 20 years not snowboarding, I am excited about taking up surfing and mountain biking new zones.  I am an intermediate rider, and love riding fast flowy singletrack (berms, rollers, small jumps). I love mountain biking, and have learned that the Western Cape has some amazing trails.

Some of my questions:

• Is it really going to be that hard for me to find a job?  I have a meeting with a company when I get there, but I honestly don't know much about the economics of SA.  I am college educated and currently have a legit career in the ski/ resort/ management industry.
• Should I stock up on miscellaneous parts before I leave? brake pads, tires, Stan's No Tubes, gloves, riding gear, etc
• Are bike thefts a huge thing?  Do I need a legit lock on my bike?  Should I get one before I leave? If I get a bike rack for my car can I leave it on the rack if grabbing some food or a drink?
• Am I in danger of being robbed if riding solo?  Pardon my ignorance, but I live in a resort town where there is virtually no crime.  I am not an idiot, and am very street smart, but am I asking for trouble by riding by myself?  There is a Youtube video of a dude getting robbed at gunpoint in Somerset West that had me pretty freaked.
• Are there some trails you recommend?  And are there trails I should avoid?
• Is there a legit bike shop you recommend?

 

Sorry if I sound like such a Jerry, but I don't really know anyone is SA besides my fiance's family and none of them like to shred.  I am going in to this move with an open mind and willingness to learn.  I am excited to be joining your culture and getting to know SA better.  Thanks for your time and recommendations.

[kosmonooit]

Greeting! Colorado is one state I would like to live in. Where are from there? With all those mountains  I am sure you feel at home in Stellies.

 

I am from the big smoke. Joburg, the city Capies love to hate but I will just chuck in my 2c here. I am sure you might find work there, possibly tourism, hospitality sector?. CT is quite cosmopolitan, Stellies less so. 

 

Have you checked out the legal work permit situation though? Make sure you have all that lined up, they have gotten serous anal about this. I think you will need to come in on a Temp Residents permit, not sure that includes the right to work.

 

Bike theft: yes its a big problem. When you hit the trails it will be okay, on the roads cyclists have been mugged around Stellies, even in groups.  And theft in general, you might find that will take a bit of adjusting. But really the biggest dangers are here on the roads, the level and standard of driving in general is appalling, for a motorist and even worse for a cyclist, you really have to be on your guard with 360 vision.

[gicknib]

Greeting! Colorado is one state I would like to live in. Where are from there? With all those mountains  I am sure you feel at home in Stellies.

 

I am from the big smoke. Joburg, the city Capies love to hate but I will just chuck in my 2c here. I am sure you might find work there, possibly tourism, hospitality sector?. CT is quite cosmopolitan, Stellies less so. 

 

Have you checked out the legal work permit situation though? Make sure you have all that lined up, they have gotten serous anal about this. I think you will need to come in on a Temp Residents permit, not sure that includes the right to work.

 

Bike theft: yes its a big problem. When you hit the trails it will be okay, on the roads cyclists have been mugged around Stellies, even in groups.  And theft in general, you might find that will take a bit of adjusting. But really the biggest dangers are here on the roads, the level and standard of driving in general is appalling, for a motorist and even worse for a cyclist, you really have to be on your guard with 360 vision.

Thanks for your insights.  I am from Vail, Colorado.  I have been blessed with an amazing network of trails here, and very long descents.  You definitely earn your turns.  I live at 8150 ft which is roughly 2,500 meters (I think).  Having singletrack out my back door and the ability to ride from my home has been great.  While my fiance would like to live in Cape Town, I am def more of a small town dude and dont enjoy city life, but I have heard CT is a cool vibe that doesnt feel like a big city.  Either way where we live will ultimately depend on where we get jobs.

 As far as the work permit, I should be good.  I am entering the country on a tourist visa, and have worked through an immigration attorney to get a Spousal Visa.  This visa will allow me to work once I receive a job offer from an employer.  To my understanding, this does not put any additional obligations on any potential employer.  It was a hell of a process to get all my paperwork ready, and I have been working on it all summer long (well, my summer). 

Thanks for the insights on the bike theft.  I dont road bike and certainly will not be picking it up in SA since you guys drive on the wrong side of the road.  Ill have a hard enough time just learning to drive a car on the other side!  haha

Thanks again

[popcorn_skollie]

Hey gicknib. Its bedtime in SA. We're 8 hours ahead of you. But by the time you hit the sack tonight replies will come pouring in. By the time you wake up it will be the end of our working day and there should be a bunch for you to read through.

 

There is no shortage of amazing trails in Stellenbosch and surrounding areas. Your safety concerns on and off the bike are valid ones. Its something that concerns me too. But once your tyres hit the dirt you're pretty safe. Especially at places where an entry fee or membership is required to ride. Like Jonkershoek or Helderberg. There are trails with free access in Stellenbosch as well. Like G-spot and Eden. I always feel safe there. Even when I ride alone. 

 

Don't worry about spares unless you ride a boutique brand bike which has no local support here. So if you have a Saracen, Norco, Mondraker or something like that. Or if you have Marzocchi, Manitou, BOS or Ohlins suspension stuff it might be worth bringing a spare seal kit and/or some pivot bearings. Other than that we're pretty sorted with all the other the major brands in cycling down here. Guess it depends on what you have. 

 

I wouldn't be too concerned about job hunting. You'd be surprised how impressed some people down here can be by a big smile and a thick american accent. Let us know when you're here there's lots of like minded people waiting to show you the trails. Good Luck.

[gicknib]

Hey gicknib. Its bedtime in SA. We're 8 hours ahead of you. But by the time you hit the sack tonight replies will come pouring in. By the time you wake up it will be the end of our working day and there should be a bunch for you to read through.

 

There is no shortage of amazing trails in Stellenbosch and surrounding areas. Your safety concerns on and off the bike are valid ones. Its something that concerns me too. But once your tyres hit the dirt you're pretty safe. Especially at places where an entry fee or membership is required to ride. Like Jonkershoek or Helderberg. There are trails with free access in Stellenbosch as well. Like G-spot and Eden. I always feel safe there. Even when I ride alone. 

 

Don't worry about spares unless you ride a boutique brand bike which has no local support here. So if you have a Saracen, Norco, Mondraker or something like that. Or if you have Marzocchi, Manitou, BOS or Ohlins suspension stuff it might be worth bringing a spare seal kit and/or some pivot bearings. Other than that we're pretty sorted with all the other the major brands in cycling down here. Guess it depends on what you have. 

 

I wouldn't be too concerned about job hunting. You'd be surprised how impressed some people down here can be by a big smile and a thick american accent. Let us know when you're here there's lots of like minded people waiting to show you the trails. Good Luck.

popcorn_skollie Thanks so much.  I appreciate the insights.  Good call on the time difference.  You mentioned membership and fees associated with certain areas.  How does that work?  Day pass?  Season/year pass?  In Colorado so many of the trails are built on BLM land (public use land) that they are open to whomever during the riding season.  

Also, per your comment sounds like I should be good on not having to worry about bringing over a bunch of extra parts.  All my components are major brands (SRAM, Shimano, Fox). Thanks again for the welcome and info.  Take care.

[Tony datoy]

The only thing you need to worry about is crime, the possibility of being bike jacked or you bike stolen when unattended.

 

South Africa is not as backward as perceived by most living abroad.

 

We have large cycle related cycle shops that will open your eyes fully stocked with some of the top brands in the world. Besides you can import parts from Evans Cycles, CRC and the likes and the stuff arrives within days.

 

Just come and enjoy, you'll be amazed what this beautiful country has to offer.

 

T

[Lurch the stalker]

I live up in Johannesburg, but was asking questions around living in Cape Town a little while back that you may find of some use.

 

The area you'll be living in is definitely right up there amongst some of the most beautiful places in the country, and the fact there's a lot of cycling will just make it even better. Once you hit the trails, I think your concerns about finding a job will disappear quite quickly. haha

 

Have a look at this thread. It's just a general list of job seekers and job offers. People around here really do look out for their own.

 

Good luck, you're going to love it here.

[T-Bob]

Hey buddy, I moved from Sydney to CT a few years ago. Had a lot of the same questions and I haven't looked back. You'll get a huge amount of negativity about the crime, state of the country and more from a lot of people but it has to be taken in context and don't let it weigh you down because the reality (or my reality) is nothing like the endless horror stories people like to trot out. It's a great country with great people if you're open to what it is. It's not London, it's not Sydney, it's not LA and each one of those aren't like each other. 

 

Try to talk to others who have moved here if you can as they give a different (not right or wrong) perspective than locals. Who, in fairness, haven't tried to get a job as a foreign national here. It's not hard but it can be frustrating. I'd look about and think 'what can I bring from here as an idea' and start our own thing. 

 

There is so much in your Q's that can be gone through and I'd be happy to chat about them if you want to message me. Also when you arrive give me a shout if you want and we'll grab beer or go for a ride. It's a great place to be. 

I've also got all my snow gear here. The boards don't come in handy but the jackets work a treat when the rains come through in winter! Maybe swap out the snow for the surf as there are great waves to be had as well. 

 

Maybe bring a car! They are pretty expensive this side compared to else where. I'm not joking, loads of people coming back do and it's worth considering.

[kosmonooit]

Eish that is some altitude! Joburg is 4800 feet and the highest peak here is around 11300 ft  in the Drakensburg. There is winter snow resort of sorts in the South Drakensburg. Be prepared for hot dry windy summers and cold wet windy winters down there. The Cape Doctor as its fondly known. Most of the country is experiencing drought and has wet summers and dry winters.

 

I am not sure you can change from a Visitors Visa to  Temp Res whilst you are here, last time I looked you have to get the Temp Res before you come, that is the former 'spousal visa". Home Affairs has 'reorganised' this a few years ago, they went on mission and missed the target as usual.

[T-Bob]

Oh... if you are shipping stuff over then you might get a few requests. Got space for a frame or a fork?

[Bloukrans]

Welcome as long as you don't bring Donald Trump with  

[DJR]

Welcome as long as you don't bring Donald Trump with  

Or Hillary!  

[Tubehunter]

Almost welcome to SA gicknib!

 

The transition could be a challenge but just from the way you write I think you'll fit right in dude! Yep, do some homework, as it's always better to be informed, but you're likely to find many of your tribe out here! It's a seriously outdoor lifestyle focused part of the world and there's plenty of adventure to be had!

 

The surfing scene is really good, but you will need some decent wetsuit gear when you're here as the water temps are particularly COLD. Nothing that good rubber can't sort out though! You'll likely end up in Strand while you're beginning, which is slightly warmer and progressively start moving around Koeel and Betty's Bay as you get more into it! It'll take about 6 months to really get some ocean knowledge and these can be the most frustrating times, but then it suddenly gels and you're styling!

 

Plenty of biking options for you based out of Stellies. It's where all the main pros globally set up training camps in their off season in case you're wondering about the attraction of the place! You'll get more than enough info regarding that from the rest of the crew in the run up to your move. Quick question. Are you more downhill or enduro in your biking?

 

We do get snow down south, but it's nothing like the snow you are accustomed too. But if you desperately need a fix there are ways. Here's a link that may give you some ideas...

http://www.getaway.co.za/travel-ideas/6-places-snow-south-africa/

Obviously you will need a little time to figure out the geography of the place so that you know what is easily within a short travel and what needs to be a more planned longer trip in chasing after the fun times! (Matroosberg is not that far from Stellies... . Day trips!)

 

The whole greater Cape Town scene is HUGE with tourism. Out the Stellenbosch side are the wine routes! You should be able to make a few enquiries that will be hungry for the skillset you have in the tourism\hospitality sector! Check this link for some ideas as to what is going on in that sector

http://www.careerjet.co.za/jobs-tourism-travel-hospitality/stellenbosch-221761.html

 

As a side note, there's plenty of genuine, super helpful peeps on these threads who are actually quite decent when you catch up for a brewski irl!

 

Cheers for now

Jay

[lerouc]

Oh... if you are shipping stuff over then you might get a few requests. Got space for a frame or a fork?

 

I was just going to ask for a few things... 

 

But back to the topic, welcome in sunny SA. Firstly with our stuffup with our finance minister your $1 after converted to ZAR should last you atleast 6 months here. (just kidding, not there yet)

 

I live in Somerset West (your neighbour) and we often go cycling in stellies, used to go party there in my younger years as well. Thats the right place for MTBing - the surfing not so much. but its nice central.

 

Theft is quite a big thing in stellies atm, honestly a lock is not going to save you, you must just be aware of your surroundings and dont leave your bike unattended even in your own back yard. As for bike jackings its becoming more and more of a reality, 2 weeks ago there was a panga attack on our local trails in somerset west.

 

But also can be avoided but not riding alone etc.

[nonky]

Remember your bear spray, as it works on lions, hyenas, leopards & cheetahs but not on rhinos or elephant.

[pista]

 

• Is it really going to be that hard for me to find a job?  I have a meeting with a company when I get there, but I honestly don't know much about the economics of SA.  I am college educated and currently have a legit career in the ski/ resort/ management industry.

• http://www.abc.net.au/news/2016-08-01/white-south-africans-complain-of-a-reverse-apartheid/7676764
•  
•  
• Are bike thefts a huge thing?  Do I need a legit lock on my bike?  Should I get one before I leave? If I get a bike rack for my car can I leave it on the rack if grabbing some food or a drink?

https://www.bikehub.co.za/stolenbikes/

• Am I in danger of being robbed if riding solo?  Pardon my ignorance, but I live in a resort town where there is virtually no crime.  I am not an idiot, and am very street smart, but am I asking for trouble by riding by myself?  There is a Youtube video of a dude getting robbed at gunpoint in Somerset West that had me pretty freaked.

https://www.bikehub.co.za/f/29-cycling-safety/