When two Airlink jets buzzed over DHL Stadium during a Springbok match, international viewers got a front-row seat to South Africa’s unique flair.
For first-time visitors, Mzansi offers a masterclass in unexpected cultural norms, from flyovers that spark mild panic to vibrant "after tears" celebrations that turn grief into a party.
Travellers quickly learn that South Africa operates on its own wavelength. Beyond the famous scenery of Cape Town and Johannesburg lies a country defined by deep-rooted warmth, dark humour in tough times, and a strict social rule: always say "hello" before asking for directions.
Every country has its own way of doing things, from greetings and social customs to how people celebrate life and death.
As the proverbial saying goes: “When in Rome, do as the Romans do.”
For travellers, encountering unfamiliar customs can either be part of the excitement of exploring a new destination or result in what is commonly known as culture shock.
Culture shock is the feeling of confusion, anxiety or disorientation that can occur when someone visits or moves to a place with a very different culture, social environment or way of life.
It often happens when travellers encounter customs and behaviours they are unfamiliar with and are not prepared for.
With South Africa welcoming increasing numbers of international visitors, more foreigners are sharing their experiences of navigating the country’s unique culture.
From greeting strangers and celebrating funerals to South Africa’s famous sense of humour and the concept of Ubuntu, there are plenty of cultural differences that can surprise first-time visitors.
Popular content creator and film producer George Washington III recently shared some of the biggest culture shocks he experienced while exploring South Africa.
Greeting people is a big deal in South Africa
One of Washington’s first culture shocks happened during an otherwise ordinary interaction.
He recalled approaching a South African while looking for help finding a grocery store. Instead of immediately asking for directions, he went straight into his question.
The response he received taught him an important lesson about South African etiquette.
The person greeted him and asked how he was before continuing with the conversation.
“That’s when I realised my rudeness preceded me,” Washington said.
For many South Africans, greeting someone before asking a question is an important part of everyday social interaction.
A simple “hello” or “how are you?” can be considered basic courtesy rather than an optional pleasantry.
For visitors, understanding this small cultural difference can make navigating everyday interactions much easier.
South African funerals can be a celebration of life
Another major culture shock for Washington was the way South Africans approach death and funerals.
He said that, in America, death is often viewed primarily as a time to mourn. His experience of South African funerals showed him another perspective - one in which grief and celebration can exist alongside each other.
“After Tears showed me that sometimes death can also be a time to celebrate life,” he said.
The experience gave him a different understanding of how South Africans navigate difficult moments.
“It showed me that even in the worst times, South Africans will always find time to enjoy life.”
South Africans can find humour in almost anything
Another thing that stood out to Washington was the country’s sense of humour.
“South Africans will make a joke out of the worst-case scenario,” he said.
For visitors, South African humour can sometimes take some getting used to. Sarcasm, teasing and finding something funny even during difficult circumstances are common features of everyday interactions.
What might initially seem surprising to an international visitor can simply be South Africans finding a way to lighten the mood.
The Ubuntu spirit surprised him
Mzansi’s concept of Ubuntu also left an impression on Washington.
He described the country as one of the safest countries he has visited for tourism and said visitors could experience the spirit of Ubuntu - a philosophy centred around humanity, community and interconnectedness.
“Anyone who visits their country can expect to be treated like an honoured guest,” he said.
Washington also believes that international perceptions of South Africa can sometimes be shaped by negative coverage, potentially discouraging people from experiencing the country for themselves.
“Compared to what I heard and experienced online, South Africa is one of the countries that will be missed out on because of negative propaganda,” he said.
South Africa’s immigration laws can be misunderstood
One area Washington believes international visitors sometimes misunderstand is immigration.
He argued that visitors should familiarise themselves with South African laws rather than relying solely on opinions or online discussions when trying to understand the country’s immigration system.
“One thing I think international visitors misunderstand is the complexity of immigration,” he said.
“I believe sometimes people are more focused on the morals behind things instead of the law.”
For travellers planning a trip to South Africa, understanding the country’s entry requirements and immigration regulations before travelling can help avoid unnecessary confusion.
Look beyond Cape Town and Johannesburg
Washington’s advice to people considering a trip to South Africa is simple: don’t limit your experience to the country’s biggest cities.
He encouraged visitors to explore some of the smaller and lesser-known destinations that may not receive as much attention online.
Among the places he highlighted were KuGumpo City (East London), Port Shepstone, George and Port Alfred, describing them as destinations with beautiful people, rich culture, breathtaking nature and history.
For visitors willing to venture beyond the well-known tourist routes, these destinations can offer a different perspective of South Africa - one that goes beyond the country’s major cities and traditional attractions.
Ultimately, culture shock is part of what makes international travel so interesting. The customs that initially confuse visitors can become some of the most memorable parts of their journey.
And for travellers visiting South Africa, the best approach may be to arrive with an open mind, learn the local customs, greet people properly and embrace the differences that make the country unique.
zamandosi.cele@nationalmg.co.za