What Americans Find Weird in South Africa: A Cultural Journey

When Americans step into South Africa, their initial shock often stems from the fact that the country drives on the left-hand side of the road, a stark contrast to the right-hand side driving culture in the United States. It’s a small detail that quickly adjusts, but it leaves an immediate impression upon arriving at the airport.

Yet, many more peculiarities await:

South Africa: A Unique Blend of American and African Influences

In truth, South Africa stands out as one of the most American countries on the African continent. The shared history of racial injustices, coupled with a climate reminiscent of California, creates a unique environment where America feels almost at home. However, the flora, fauna, and non-European languages are often viewed with a sense of exoticism.

But it’s when you step beyond the veneer of familiarity that the peculiarities begin to emerge. One day, you might find yourself gazing at penguins on the beach, a sight that has become a unique and unexpected sight in South Africa, but one that’s as fascinating as it is puzzling to an American visitor.

For many Americans, the strange customs that await are part of the adventure that South Africa promises.

Unique Local Terms and Phrases

Car Guards

One such oddity is the service known as car guards. They’re individuals stationed near your parked car who watch over it while you go about your business. Paying them a few rands when you return is not only expected but welcomed. It’s a symbol of trust in a bustling city that often challenges the norms of security.

Most Americans will also experience a phenomenon known as “African Time,” a term that refers to the flexible and relaxed approach to punctuality. Arriving ‘just now’ might mean anywhere from a few minutes to several hours, a factor that can be both amusing and exasperating in daily routines.

Speaking of which, there’s the South African walk, where not a single pedestrian conforms to a sense of urgency. From the person who stands directly in front of your car to the individual mulling over their shopping list at the mall, everyone sashays through life at their leisure. If this sounds familiar, welcome to the world of “African Time.”

Car Terminology

Language barriers can be fun. Words like “boot” instead of “trunk,” and “bonnet” for what Americans call the “hood” of a car, can lead to a series of confused looks and laughter. The term “now now” is as evasive as it is playful, often promising future actions that seem perpetually in the offing. And then there’s “just now,” which can convey a sense of immediacy or delay depending on the context.

Of course, no South African experience is complete without a braai, a term that encompasses barbecues and more. This is more than a casual gathering but a cultural moment, sometimes akin to a sport, with its unique flavor and spirit.

Intriguing Slang and Greetings

Sometimes, an exclamation like “eish” captures the essence of a situation, whether happy or sad. In South Africa, it’s a versatile word used for numerous expressions of surprise, pain, or dismay. Meanwhile, “howzit” serves as a friendly greeting, a term that easily slides into the conversation, inviting the listener to share their thoughts.

The phrase “ja no” can have a myriad of meanings, often implying agreement or disagreement, but it’s also used as a filler or placeholder. It’s a tongue-twisting phrase that’s as common as it is confusing to new visitors.

A Bit of Humor

To illustrate the unique nature of South African interactions, there’s a classic story that involves a friend stating they were “on the way” to a meeting. In transit, it was “around the corner,” which when translated, could mean anything from a block away to a block or two, or even a whole suburb or town away. The conversation then delves into a taxi breaking down or mechanical issues, leading to further confusion and amusement. This anecdote is a perfect encapsulation of the unique and often humorous aspects of South African interactions.

Conclusion

South Africa, while familiar in some aspects, is a land rich with peculiarities that make it a delightful, if slightly bewildering, destination. These quirky customs and phrases may initially baffle, but they soon become a source of joy and laughter, embodying the diverse and vibrant culture that South Africa is known for.