Durban, a vibrant coastal city in South Africa, offers an exciting and culturally rich experience for students. As a Berea College student embarking on this journey, ensuring your safety is of paramount importance, be it via personal interactions, online activities, or exploring the city’s scenic beauty, these safety tips will help you enjoy your time to the fullest in the warmest city in South Africa.
Stay Aware of Your Surroundings
Always be conscious of your environment. Whether you are on campus, or enjoying the beachfront, stay alert to what is happening around you. Avoid distractions like excessive use of headphones or your phone, which can make you less aware of potential risks. Most importantly limit your interaction with strangers in the Central Business District, a common strategy nowadays that criminals use is to speak to random people as a distraction while being pickpocketed
Travel in Groups
Try to move around with friends as a group, specifically at night. Group travel not only deters potential threats but also ensures that someone is there to assist if you encounter any issues.
Secure Your Belongings
Keep your valuables out of sight. Use bags with zippers and wear them across your body to prevent snatching. If you are carrying important documents or larger sums of money, consider using a money belt.
Use Reliable Transportation
Opt for reputable transportation options. Services like the secure People Movers transport administered by the eThekwini Municipality, or the efficient South Beach and North Beach taxis which have drastically improved their security. After numerous complaints about taxi conductors colliding with amaphara( Durban Slang for street criminals) safety measures were put in place to avert this. “ the commuters are the reason why we are able to provide for our families” Muzi Ndaba who is one of the rank managers said they decided to do away with conductors and placed rank managers in hotspots where commuters were most targeted. If you are using public transport, familiarise yourself with the routes and schedules to avoid waiting at stops for long periods.
Learn Basic Local Phrases
While English is widely spoken, learning a few basic phrases in isiZulu can be helpful. It shows respect for the local culture and can assist you in navigating certain situations more smoothly and is a big plus for street cred.
Protect Your Personal Information
Be cautious about what you share online. Avoid posting personal details like your location, travel plans, or specific daily routines on social media. Use privacy settings to control who can see your posts.
Beware of Scams and Phishing
Stay vigilant against online scams. Be skeptical of unsolicited messages asking for personal information or financial details. Verify the authenticity of websites before making purchases or entering sensitive information.
Secure Your Devices
Keep your devices secure with updated antivirus software and regular software updates. Avoid using public Wi-Fi for sensitive transactions, and if necessary, use a virtual private network (VPN) to enhance your security.
Exploring the City
Respect Local Customs
Durban is a culturally diverse city with various customs and traditions. Show respect by dressing appropriately and being mindful of local norms. Understanding and respecting these customs can also help you avoid misunderstandings or conflicts. Appreciate the multi-pluralism of the city and appreciation of culture deeply rooted in respect, an example is it is still considered good manners in Durban to greet if you enter a taxi, shop, or bus.
Durban is a fantastic place to broaden your horizons, meet new people, and experience a unique culture. By following these safety tips, you can enjoy all that the city has to offer while staying secure. Remember, your well-being is crucial to making the most of your experience in Durban. Stay safe, stay smart, and have an incredible experience in Durban!