The Western Cape and Overberg are not malarial areas – however if you are visiting the Kruger Park for instance in the summer – then you must take the appropriate medication. Should you feel under the weather on your return see your G.P. and advise him where you’ve been travelling. For further information visit www.doh.gov.uk/traveladvice or www.travelclinic.co.za

If you take regular medication then make sure you have an adequate supply with you and that you take this in your on-board luggage.

Standards of medical care in South Africa are generally high. If you need to see a doctor TheCoachman or your hotel will arrange this for you. There is no National Health Service so you will have to pay, but fees are far lower than in the UK. Pharmacists are helpful and can be a useful first port of call.

Flying while Pregnant

If you’re over 28 weeks at the time of return travel some airlines may refuse to carry you, so it’s worth checking with the airline/travel agent. It is also a good idea to get a doctor’s note declaring you fit to travel.

Deep VeinThrombosis

DVT is very rare for air travellers. However that doesn’t mean it never strikes! Most at risk are people with a history of thrombosis, pregnant women, or those on oral contraceptives, smokers, the obese, sufferers from congestive heart failure. Dehydration and lack of exercise can exacerbate the problem. So it’s a good idea to exercise your feet, take a walk where feasible and drink plenty of non-alcoholic beverages. Also helpful, though not at all sexy-looking, are pressure stockings or socks. They certainly minimise swollen feet and ankles! Here again if you are at risk it is advisable to take medical advice prior to travel.

Minor Ailments

Local water is safe to drink in South Africa, and bottled water widely available. However changes in diet may occasionally cause stomach upsets so it’s a good idea not to go overboard on local dishes – at least initially. Insects known in South Africa as “goggas” love hot weather! And some of them may bite so it’s a good idea to take along insect repellant. At The Coachman we provide “mozzi-mats” in summer in the bedrooms though mosquitoes are not usually troublesome.

Midday Sun

Not just to be avoided by “Mad Dogs and Englishmen” but everyone else, especially children. You should wear sun block suited to your skin, re-apply it regularly and wear a hat. Avoid sun bathing between midday and 4 p.m. To prevent dehydration drink plenty of liquids but beware the risky combination of too much alcohol and too much sun!