The initial objective was clear: to dispatch and help install the hotel’s fixtures, furniture and equipment (FF&E). But construction delays, caused by social and political challenges, meant installation had to begin before the building was complete, with multitudes of subcontractors still working on site.

A series of logistical and operational hurdles

Access and handling complications

Another project partner had been assigned to unload the FF&E shipment, which arrived in 50 40-foot shipping containers. But when they unexpectedly withdrew, AGS was asked to complete the job.

The team gladly took on the task to keep the dispatch process moving. However, the absence of fully functional elevators, which were often too small for the larger items, made delivering goods to the staging areas a challenge.

As a workaround, they used the external lifts put in place by the construction crew. But as the building neared completion, these were moved off site, and the team were left to rely on their own strength and endurance to get the job done. This required manoeuvring unwieldy equipment up multiple flights of stairs, with as many as 16 team members assisting with the dispatch of particularly heavy items.

Complex inventory management and coordination

The team then had to move the dispatched inventory multiple times as construction progressed, and work needed to be completed in the staging areas previously assigned.

Damage to the inventory already installed was also a constant concern, and the AGS team diligently applied protective materials wherever and whenever required.

Innovative solutions and operational adaptation

Human resources flexibility

Faced with these exceptional constraints, AGS’s scope of work evolved considerably and as the project progressed.

The team’s original responsibilities had been limited to:

• Dispatch from containers to staging area and onward dispatch to the installation sites of the hotel and office building
• Inventory Management into and out of staging areas
• Installation support
• Basic assembly of office furniture and equipment

Their expanded duties included:

• Unloading of containers and unpacking of shipment
• Handling heavy kitchen and cold room equipment
• Keeping dispatched items secure in a series of staging areas
• Supporting the installation of ceilings and finishing work

Creative and cost-effective solutions

Bringing this project to a successful conclusion required creative and pragmatic solutions.

• To adapt to the additional workload, the AGS project manager immediately made more staff available. Drawing on her strong local relationships, she more than doubled the size of the crew, from 15 people to 35 people on site every day.
• To limit the client’s costs, the AGS team reused as much of the original packaging material as possible, including polystyrene protectors, nylon sheets, corner protectors, to protect already-installed furniture.
• To ensure that installation was completed without a hitch, they implemented a system of double checks to track inventory distribution.

The client was impressed by AGS’s flexibility and the quality of the work provided, acknowledging the team’s exceptional ability to adapt to the challenging circumstances in writing.

This recognition paved the way for a new, similar project in Harare, Zimbabwe with 119 rooms, demonstrating the client’s confidence in AGS’s capabilities.

Entrust your complex hotel projects to our proven expertise. Get your personalised quote today

The first step was to define the project scope. “To guarantee high-quality service, we needed to inventory the works and document their medias and dimensions to understand how best to transport them,” explains Stanislas.

Extraordinary dimensions

The works included numerous paintings, but also sculptures of various sizes. One was particularly impressive, standing two meters tall. “Some of the works didn’t fit in our trucks, so we had to find larger vehicles to transport them safely,” Stanislas points out.

Due to the humidity of the DRC’s climate, the paintings could also not be packed in tissue paper, as is usually the case. “The moisture causes the tissue paper to stick to the surface of the paint, and the risk of damage was too great,” explains the deputy branch manager. The decision was therefore made to use bubble wrap and foam paper, which are more suitable.

A dozen highly trained packers then packed each piece, secured them in crates, loaded them into containers, and cleared them through customs before they were transported by sea to their final destination. “We brought the shipping containers to the customer’s premises for loading,” explains Stanislas. In total, eight shipping crates and three 40-foot containers were needed to transport this extraordinary collection.

Finding the right equipment

“We had to find crates that were suitable for the works,” emphasises Stanislas. “For the largest statue, we devised a system of base reinforcement and straps to keep it stable during transport in the container.” This is the kind of personalised service that AGS strives to provide for each customer.

The teams also used refrigerated containers to maintain stable humidity and temperature levels and thus protect the works during their journey to South Africa.

“This was a first for our branch,” emphasises Stanislas. “We often transport works of art, but never in such large numbers and as a collection. It was a great opportunity to showcase our expertise in this specialised service.”

 
Give your artwork the care it deserves. Get your free quote today.

APTERS has been committed to improving access to mobility equipment for Zambian children with disabilities for over 30 years. The nongovernmental organisation (NGO) began as collaboration between three skilled Zambians with physical disabilities and a British physiotherapist. Together, they aimed to create affordable mobility aids such as special chairs and standing frames, as well as splints, wedges, and walkers.

How to make mobility aids from recycled materials

“It can be difficult to find this type of equipment in Zambia,” explained AGS Zambia Deputy Branch Manager, Helene Guidez, “so they build it themselves.” The specialised equipment is made from as many reusable materials as possible, including paper, cardboard, and maize, which acts as a glue.

Three cardboard pieces are glued together for reinforcement, creating a sturdy material that is cut into the frames designed by physiotherapists. To ensure they are water resistant, they are then covered with oil-based paint, and cushions are sewn for added comfort.

This method not only reduces cardboard and paper waste, but also makes the devices cheaper to create. Their cost is then subsidised further through donations and the sale of hand-made toys. This makes the aids more accessible to those who could not otherwise afford them.

“APTERS shares a premises with University Teaching Hospital and works hand-in-hand with hospital staff,” explained AGS Zambia Imports Manager, Bridget Zulu. “When children go to the hospital for physiotherapy, and the doctors see there is a need for special equipment, they contact APTERS.”

The organisation produces between 1200-1500 aids each year. It also provides employment for those with disabilities. Having a disability can lead to disadvantages when looking for work, and many differently abled Zambians work in the APTERS production department.

AGS Zambia re-uses cardboard responsibly

As a removals company, AGS Zambia is a perfect partner for APTERS, so far delivering more than 10m³ of used moving boxes to create equipment. The AGS team is already committed to recycling and reducing waste, always re-using cardboard boxes in their local moves where possible. When they are no longer usable, APTERS can now repurpose the material for an important cause.

At AGS Movers, we believe in making a positive impact beyond just relocation. Support sustainable solutions for a brighter future – request your moving quote today.

The mode of transport

Household goods can be moved by road, air, or sea. When it’s available, road is the best choice if you’re looking for a balance of speed and affordability.

Air transport is faster but more expensive, while sea freight is cheaper but slower. Another consideration when opting for sea freight? Single or shared containers. Shared containers – where shipments from multiple clients are grouped into a single container – are the most economical and environmentally friendly option but also the slowest, as the containers need to fill up before they leave port.

Established movers like AGS also offer flexible transport solutions, including shipping larger items like furniture by road or sea and sending items for immediate use by air. This approach ensures that your employees can settle in quickly and comfortably at their new location.

Insurance coverage

Despite best efforts, belongings do sometimes get damaged in transit. As such moving companies will always advise you to take out insurance to cover your employees’ shipments. But here, too, there are multiple considerations that will influence the final rate.

In addition to standard all-risk insurance, there are optional add-ons:

• Sets-and-pairs coverage replaces entire sets – like dishes or a multi-part coffee machine – if a single part breaks.
• Non-visible damage covers electronic and mechanical equipment that no longer works after transit even though it has suffered no visible damage.
• Mould insurance covers damage from prolonged exposure to moisture, which can happen on moves to or from humid climates.

Whichever insurance you opt for, it’s important to know that it will only be valid if the moving company packs your employees’ belongings, thereby ensuring professional and safe packing.

Moving companies like AGS will handle most of the communication with your employees regarding packing and insurance. But as the employer you should clearly communicate any limits on move value or insurance to avoid confusion.

To make the most of their insurance coverage, it’s important that your employees create detailed inventory lists of the items they are insuring. This is where it pays to be specific, because just a few extra words can make all the difference in case of loss or damage.

It’s also advisable to use the current market value of items in the destination country, as insurers will use this to calculate compensation. Because of the cost implications, there is a temptation to undervalue items to save on fees, but this can backfire if something gets damaged or is lost.

Customs and Tax

Depending on the destination country, it’s likely your employees will be charged customs duties on their shipment of household goods, although certain countries do offer a customs exemption for corporate moves. Your moving company should be able to advise you which costs to anticipate. These can vary widely depending on the contents of the shipment.

To ensure smooth customs clearance and therefore avoid incurring extra customs storage costs, they will also prepare all relevant documents, like copies of inventory lists and passports, on your behalf. This will smooth the way for clearing your employees’ shipments through customs as quickly as possible.

Based on your priorities and budget, your moving company will advise you in detail on each of the cost considerations mentioned in this article. They will also be up to date on any current events, local or international, that could affect move costs, like container shortages or port congestion. With their input, you will be able to form a realistic idea of where to set your employees’ move allowance value.

Ready to send your employees overseas? Contact us today for a free moving quote!

“Since opening our doors in Dubai in 2011, our objective has been to establish a robust presence in the Gulf peninsula, and we eagerly anticipate fostering enduring partnerships within the Kuwaiti business community in the years to come,” commented Mobilitas CEO Cedric Castro.

Leading operations for AGS Kuwait is seasoned removals expert Suman Prasai, who brings over 15 years of industry experience gained in Kuwait and Qatar, ensuring a seamless customer experience tailored to the region’s unique needs.

Alongside mobility services, Mobilitas aims to utilise its presence to help conserve Kuwait’s many cultural and architectural treasures. “Kuwait possesses a rich and tangible heritage spanning millennia. It would be a privilege for us to help conserve this legacy for future generations through our heritage solutions,” Castro said.

The country joins Abu Dhabi, Bahrain, Oman, and Qatar as the sixth Gulf nation and the 103^rd country worldwide to welcome the Mobilitas Group. Plans are underway to launch operations in Saudi Arabia in 2025.

About Mobilitas

Founded in 1974 and now managed by the third generation of the Taïeb and Castro families, the MOBILITAS Group is a mid-sized company specialising in the removal and relocation services, physical and digital records management, and the digital preservation of heritage.

The group, which is present in 103 countries and employs more than 5,500 people, relies on its own network on the one hand and its exclusive agents on the other hand to offer its customers unparalleled service in all its sectors of activity.

The group’s long-term vision reflects its philosophy and culture that guide its major entrepreneurial and investment decisions. Decisions that regularly shape and strengthen the group leading it towards new processes, new businesses, new horizons.

Press Contact
MOBILITAS Group
press@mobilitas.org

Spearheaded by AGS Kenya and Bamburi Cement, the initiative had the partners meet at Haller Park on the outskirts of the bustling metro of Mombasa, Kenya’s second-largest city. An old limestone quarry from the 1950s, the park is a product of Bamburi Cement’s efforts, since 1971, to convert their disused pits into vibrant and diverse ecosystems of forest, grasslands and ponds.

The day began with informative presentations on the importance of environmental conservation, sustainable practices, and corporate citizenship. The group then moved outside for the main event. But with Seedballs Kenya as their partner, they weren’t about to start digging holes in the ground.

The AGS and eManage Africa teams had a go at ‘seed bombing’, launching seedballs into hard-to-reach areas of the park with nothing less than handheld catapaults.

The science of seedballs

At the heart of each seedball is a seed coated with ‘biochar’ – charcoal dust mixed with nutritious binders. This coating protects the seed from birds, rodents, and insects, as well as from extreme temperatures, so it is safe and ready for when rains arrive. Once they do, the ball is soaked and can retain the moisture for a prolonged period, encouraging germination.

Seedballs Kenya provided 50,000 balls for the event. These included an array of indigenous species such as Sesbania sesban, Acacia nilotica, Acacia polyacantha, and a mix of grasses.

This novel method of tree planting, developed by Seedballs Kenya, enables the large-scale reintroduction of trees and grass species in degraded areas. It is also cost effective, as biochar is made predominantly from charcoal waste, a resource that is abundant in a country where charcoal and firewood have been the primary energy sources for centuries. This results in a circular economy which not only helps restore deforested areas but also re-uses leftover waste from wood-intensive industries.

Rehabilitating forests worldwide

Thibault Malezieux, Managing Director of AGS Kenya and eManage Africa, emphasised his teams’ dedication to integrating environmental, social, and governance (ESG) principles into their operations: “As part of the Mobilitas Group, we have long supported reforestation efforts through the international NGO Planète Urgence, but since we are part of the Kenyan community, it is only natural for us to want to extend these efforts to our own backyard. What better way to do so than with an approach pioneered in Kenya.”

“There aren’t many customers who own a boat and decide to move it to the French overseas departments and territories, so this was an exceptional assignment,” explains Wilfrid Montagnac, Deputy Director in charge of operations.

The branch, which has a joinery on site, adapts to each customer and can transport all types of vehicles, from quad bikes to motorbikes, cars and rickshaws.

A tailor-made joinery support structure

“In this case, we were looking at a length of 5.4m for the boat and its trailer,” says Wilfrid Montagnac. So he called on his team’s joiner to make a structure called a cleat for loading the boat into the container. This operation takes between 40 minutes and two hours, depending on the requirements.

For this type of operation, we opt for made-to-measure,” he points out. “In this case we needed a bulkhead to load the container, but on other occasions we make bespoke mezzanines depending on the type of vehicle to be transported“.

Efficient boat transportation solutions

Customers bring their boats and trailers to the depot, and the AGS team takes care of everything. They are responsible for ancillary operations, such as securing the engine, which must be chocked and locked to prevent any damage during handling and transport, and preparing the battery: “We have to disconnect the battery and check that nothing can switch the battery on during transport”, says Wilfrid Montagnac.

AGS Rhône Alpes can also transport boats to destinations other than the French overseas territories. In these cases, the vessel’s owner must supply a navigation permit and, sometimes, the vehicle registration document for the trailer.

It is thanks to this in-house expertise and its on-site carpentry workshop that the branch is one of the few able to carry out this type of operation, and word is spreading!

Are you looking to move exceptional vehicles abroad? Contact us today!

According to Numbeo, the average net salary in Switzerland (after tax) is almost 2.5 times higher than the average Dutch salary (CHF 6,301.85, which is approximately €6,680.96, compared to €2,784.94 in the Netherlands in 2024).

This sounds fantastic, until you realise that the cost of living in Switzerland is significantly higher too. Here are some key areas where you will notice the difference:

The higher-than-average salaries in Switzerland will offset some of the increased costs, of course, but the impact on your finances will depend on your personal situation and lifestyle.

Look Into Job Opportunities in Switzerland for Your Profession

Thanks to its diverse economy which includes banking and finance, pharmaceuticals, technology, and hospitality, Switzerland is home to almost every profession. This is especially true in its largest cities, Zurich and Geneva.

One of the most effective methods to find a job in your sector is to conduct an online search, as many companies advertise their vacancies on internet platforms. Websites like Work.swiss, the public employment service provider in the country, and jobs.ch, Switzerland’s leading online job portal, can be invaluable resources.

Your prospects can be significantly improved if your role appears on the Swiss Government’s occupation list. This list contains professions considered to be in high demand in Switzerland, and Swiss employers are more likely to hire foreign workers for roles they struggle to fill with local talent.

As a Dutch citizen, you are entitled to work in Switzerland due to the agreement on the Free Movement of Persons between the European Union and Switzerland. However, you will still need a work permit, which is usually initiated by your prospective employer once you have an employment contract.

Familiarise Yourself With the Healthcare System in Switzerland

The level of medical care available in Switzerland is arguably one of the highest in the world, but there are some key points to know before accessing Swiss health services:

1. Mandatory Health Insurance: Health insurance is compulsory for all persons residing in Switzerland (within three months of taking up residence or being born in the country). This is known as the L’Assurance Maladie (LAMal) system, which ensures that everyone has access to medical care when they need it.
2. Private Insurance Companies: The mandatory health insurance can be purchased from around 60 different private insurance companies (public health insurance is not available). Each company must offer a basic package and cannot refuse applications for this package based on age or health conditions.
3. Premiums, Deductibles, and Co-Pays: The cost of insurance premiums varies by insurance company, the individual’s age, and the region where they live. In addition to monthly premiums, there are annual deductibles and co-pays. Deductibles are the amount you pay out-of-pocket before your insurance starts to cover costs, and co-pays are the percentage of the costs you cover after meeting the deductible.
4. Choice of Healthcare Providers: Switzerland operates on a free choice of healthcare providers. This means you can choose your own doctors and specialists. This is different to the Netherlands, where you usually need a referral from a general practitioner before you can see a specialist.
5. Supplemental Insurance: For more coverage beyond the basic package, such as private or semi-private hospital rooms, alternative therapies, dental care, etc., individuals can choose to purchase supplemental insurance.
6. Emergency services are available to everyone, regardless of their insurance status of ability to pay.

For more information, visit the Federal Office of Public Health’s (FOPH) English-language website or the website of a Swiss health insurance company.

Research the Housing Market, Including Rental Prices, and Owning a Home

In Switzerland, owning a home is less common. In fact, the homeownership rate is between 36% and 47%, far below the European Union average, with most Swiss opting to rent for the duration of their lives.

Rental prices can vary greatly depending on the location and amenities on offer. Some cities may have a higher cost of living overall, while others may have a more competitive rental market.

If you do decide to take the plunge into homeownership, remember that there are some limitations in place for non-Swiss citizens buying property, unless you hold a residence permit of type B or C and are a citizen of the EU.

Top International Schools in Switzerland

Well-known for its high-quality education system, there are several top international schools that cater to expatriate families moving to Switzerland:

International School of Geneva (ISG)

About: One of the oldest and most prestigious international schools in Switzerland, offering a multicultural environment and comprehensive education.
Location: Multiple campuses in Geneva, Switzerland.
Languages: Instruction is primarily in English, with additional language support available.
Curriculum: Offers the International Baccalaureate (IB) program from primary through to high school, focusing on academic rigor and holistic development.
Facilities: Modern facilities, extensive extracurricular activities, and resources for students’ overall growth and development.

Institut Le Rosey:

About: Renowned as one of the world’s most exclusive and prestigious boarding schools.
Location: Rolle, Switzerland, on the shores of Lake Geneva.
Language: Bilingual instruction in English and French, with additional language options available.
Curriculum: Offers a meticulous academic program, including the IB curriculum, with a strong emphasis on arts, sports, and cultural enrichment.
Facilities: Historic campus, state-of-the-art facilities, and extensive amenities.

Zurich International School (ZIS):

About: One of the largest and most diverse international schools in Switzerland, offering a dynamic learning environment in the vibrant city of Zurich.
Location: Zurich, Switzerland.
Language: Instruction primarily in English, with additional language support and language programs available.
Curriculum: Offers the International Baccalaureate (IB) program, along with Advanced Placement (AP) courses and the Swiss Matura program for Swiss students.
Facilities: Modern campus facilities, extensive sports and extracurricular activities, and innovative learning resources.

Transport Options in Switzerland: How to Get Around Efficiently

Did you know? It’s possible – and often preferable – to get around Switzerland using public transportation exclusively.

Switzerland is known for its efficient public transportation system, which includes buses, bikes, trains, and trams, and the website of the Swiss Federal Railways offers various passes that allow unlimited use of public transport throughout the country.

There are numerous car rental companies available if you prefer to drive. Just keep in mind that Switzerland has strict traffic laws and access requirements, and parking can be expensive.

Whatever your transportation preference, getting around Switzerland is convenient, safe and enjoyable.

Learn About Swiss Culture, Including Customs, Language, and Etiquette

Swiss culture is a fascinating world full of customs and language that are unique to the people of Switzerland.

When it comes to etiquette handshaking and kissing on the cheeks are the norm, and it’s important to greet someone correctly. Punctuality is crucial, so make sure you arrive on time for appointments and meetings. Additionally, it’s important to have good table manners when dining.

Swiss German is the most widely spoken language, but French, Italian, and Romansh are also spoken in different regions of the country. For example, French is the primary language in Geneva and Lausanne.

To enhance collaboration with your colleagues and increase your likelihood of employment, it is recommended, if not required, to be proficient in English.

By learning Swiss customs, language, and etiquette, you’ll be able to make the most out of your experience in this beautiful country.

Move to Switzerland with AGS Netherlands

From a robust job market to a high standard of healthcare, and from efficient public transportation to a unique housing market, Switzerland offers a lifestyle that you’ll find distinct yet comfortable. However, the process of moving abroad can be complex and requires careful planning.

As a moving company based in the Netherlands, we understand the intricacies of international relocations. Our team is here to simplify your move to Switzerland, handling everything from packing your belongings safely to ensuring they arrive at your new Swiss home on time.

We’re also more than happy to advise you on any aspect of your move, including immigration and settling in, using our extensive knowledge and experience to help make your transition as smooth as possible.

Remember, moving to a new country is not just about transporting your belongings from one place to another. It’s about starting a new chapter in your life. And we’re here to help you turn the page. Get in touch with us today for your free quote.

Following the initiative of the French Ambassador to Kenya, Arnaud Suquet, French companies are taking action through the Chamber of Commerce; to support a borehole improvement operation led by the French NGO ACTED. This comprehensive solution aims at improving the living conditions of inhabitants in several villages by providing water, sanitation and hygiene services.

A contribution from AGS

Thanks to its longstanding and strong presence in Africa, AGS is fully committed to this operation and contributed financially to rehabilitate a borehole in the village of Goda Korma.

In total, this facility supplies water to some 200 households, or approximately 1,200 people. The borehole is diesel-powered, so maintenance costs are high.

ACTED proposes converting the pumping station to run on solar energy. And for good reason: northern Kenya receives eight hours of sunshine daily, a real opportunity to reduce operating and maintenance costs and adopt a long-term solution for the surrounding communities. This will also make the borehole more environmentally friendly.

However, ACTED will ensure that the system remains hybrid, so that it can switch between solar and an alternative energy source, such as a diesel generator or the electricity grid, in the event of unfavourable weather. The association will also monitor consumption using water meters.

Improved hygiene in Kenya

The project will improve the safety of the drilling equipment. The rehabilitation of this borehole also has a direct impact on community hygiene by reducing the risk of water-borne diseases and improving the quality of drinking water. Thanks to this installation, ACTED aims to guarantee access to drinking water within a distance of 0.5 to 1 km (compared to 5.5 to 15 km today).

The project is the result of a joint study carried out in December 2022 by ACTED, the water services and the target communities in the counties of Isiolo, Samburu and Marsabit.

A technical assessment identified strategic boreholes which had dried up due to drought or damage. In all, five water resources were identified and selected for repair. 1,350 people are expected to directly benefit from improved access to drinking water and hygiene practices.

As a member of the UN Global Compact, AGS supports local communities around the world. To find out more about the work we do, find out more about the work we do, see our latest Communication on Progress.

South African Residency Requirements

South Africa has a variety of visa options, so it’s crucial to figure out which one suits you best. Whether it’s a work, study, or family visa, make sure to start the application process well in advance as the residency applications can be time-consuming.

The Department of Home Affairs is your go-to for all things visa-related. You can visit their website to familiarise yourself with the different forms and understand their specific requirements for your chosen permit. AGS Global Solutions can advise and support you throughout the visa process.

Handling Finances

Financial landscapes vary significantly between the Netherlands and South Africa, reflecting differences in economic development, currency strength, and overall fiscal structures. In the Netherlands, the cost of living is relatively high, with expenses such as housing, healthcare, and education contributing to this. However, high incomes and a robust social support system help balance the cost.

South Africa’s cost of living is generally lower compared to many European countries, making it an attractive destination for expatriates. However, there can be significant disparities in living costs between urban and rural areas.

If you’re switching from euros to South African rands, keep an eye on the exchange rates to maximise your currency conversion and consider opening a local bank account. It’s not just about currency conversion; it’s about making your financial transition smoother. Also, don’t forget to inform your Dutch bank about the move to avoid any unexpected hiccups.

Navigating the Healthcare System in South Africa

Health is wealth, they say. And while South Africa does have a public healthcare system, investing in comprehensive health insurance is highly recommended. This ensures you have access to private medical facilities and specialists, giving you peace of mind in case of emergencies or routine medical needs.

South Africa prides itself on having the most advanced healthcare standards on the African continent. With over 200 private hospitals nationwide, if you opt for private health insurance you can expect healthcare services on par with those offered in the Netherlands.

There are a multitude of options to choose from when shopping for health insurance, referred to locally as “medical aid”. Whether you’re looking for a bare bones solution that only covers emergency hospital visits or one that comes with all the bells and whistles and full dental care, read the documentation carefully as many policies only pay out up to a predefined limit and costs incurred over that will be for your account. To get around this, many South Africans also pay for “gap cover” – an additional policy designed to cover any financial shortfall in your health insurance.

South African Housing Hacks

Compared to many European countries, South Africa offers a more affordable housing market. Rental prices and property values vary significantly between urban and rural areas, providing expatriates with flexibility in choosing accommodation that suits their budget. Whether you’re considering the bustling city life of Johannesburg or the coastal charm of Cape Town, start your search early. Websites like Property24 and Private Property are your new best friends.

Tip: In South Africa, particularly in urban areas, security is a crucial factor to consider when selecting accommodation. Gated communities and secure complexes are popular choices, offering added peace of mind for residents.

Transportation Tips

Public transportation varies across cities, with the local options being buses, trains and taxis. Taxis are the most affordable and fastest for navigating the cities. However, public transport of any kind is not recommended for tourists and expats, making a car a necessity (Uber is a convenient and less expensive short-term option). Understand the road rules, get your local driver’s license, and consider the practicality of owning a vehicle.

Tip: Get an international driver’s license before you leave the Netherlands. It’s valid for six months in South Africa, allowing you to drive while you are getting your local license sorted (which could take up to a few months, depending on the city).

South Africans drive on the left, so think twice about importing your car from the Netherlands as you will have extremely limited visibility when driving.

Embracing Diversity in South Africa

South Africa is a blend of culture and traditions, and you can expect to hear a variety of dialects, especially since there are 11 official languages. Take time to research and understand the local customs and etiquette. Learning a bit of Afrikaans or isiZulu won’t hurt either, even though English is spoken everywhere. Being culturally aware not only eases your integration but also enriches your experience in your new home.

As an expat in South Africa, you’ll meet people from many different cultures and nationalities. The most popular cities among expats in South Africa include Cape Town, Durban, and Johannesburg. Each city is different and it’s important to know what each one offers before deciding where to settle.

Cape Town often ranks as one of the most beautiful cities in the world and comes with a complex history of indigenous people, as well as Dutch, British and French settlers. The city offers leafy suburbs, colourful Cape Dutch architecture, an abundance of cafes and restaurants and bustling nightclubs. Its proximity to world-class white sandy beaches, internationally renowned winelands and a plethora of outdoor activities make it a top destination for travellers from around the world, resulting in a cosmopolitan and relaxed vibe.

In Durban, you can enjoy a subtropical climate, hot and humid summers, followed by mild and dry winters. The city is home to a significant Indian population which has influenced its traditions and cuisine. A popular local dish is “bunny chow” – a spicy and aromatic Durban curry served in a hollowed out half-loaf of bread. Like Cape Town, Durban is an outdoor-lover’s paradise, where you can enjoy a multitude of adventures on land and sea.

Johannesburg, also known as Joburg or Jozi, is the largest city and serves as the economic and financial hub of the country. In this city, you’ll find a wide range of high-end shops, restaurants, and entertainment options. The cityscape is characterised by modern skyscrapers and trendy urban areas with plenty of street art. Jozi is a mix of economic vitality and cultural heritage – offering visitors a unique and multifaceted experience.

Staying Secure in South Africa

Even as you drink in South Africa’s vast natural beauty, it’s important to be aware of your surroundings. The country boasts stunning landscapes and a rich cultural diversity, but understanding the risks to your safety is crucial for a positive and secure experience. When looking for a place to stay, research the safety in the area before making your final decision. Once you’re all moved in, take common-sense precautions, and connect with locals for advice on staying secure.

A few tips for staying safe in South Africa are:

• Don’t leave valuable items (i.e., handbags, electronic devices) unattended and keep them out of sight as much as possible.
• Avoid carrying large amounts of cash, and card transactions should be processed in your presence.
• Avoid walking around alone after dark.

Wrapping It Up

Moving from the Netherlands to South Africa is an exciting journey filled with new experiences and opportunities. By diving into the details of visas, finances, healthcare, housing, culture, transportation, and safety, you’re well on your way to a smooth transition. Remember, each move comes with its unique challenges, but with the right mindset and preparation, you’ll be embracing your South African adventure in no time.

Get in touch with AGS Global Solutions Netherlands for your big move to South Africa.