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The currency of South Africa is the Rand, with one Rand equalling 100 cents. Notes come in denominations of R200, 100, 50, 20 and 10. Coins are in denominations of R5, 2 and 1, and 50, 20, 10, 5, 2 and 1 cent. Currency is easy to exchange in most hotels, banks and bureau de changes, as well as in some shops and restaurants and automated machines in the street. Traveller’s cheques are accepted widely, though it is advisable to take them in US Dollars or Pounds Sterling to avoid additional conversion charges. ATMs are widely available, and major international credit and debit cards are accepted. See: Visa: http://www.visa.com/atms/ MasterCard: http://www.mastercard.com/cardholderservices/atm/ The import of domestic currency is limited to R5,000 cash, and the export is limited to R500 cash. The import and export of foreign currency is unlimited provided it is declared on entry and exit. Business General banking hours in most areas are from 0830 to 1530 Mondays to Fridays, and from 0800 to 1130 on Saturdays. Shopping hours vary, but are generally from 0900 to 1700 Mondays to Fridays, and from 0900 to 1400 on Saturdays – popular tourist areas have vastly differing opening hours. Usual customs should be observed when in South Africa, and even with the plethora of different official languages, English is generally used to conduct business. Formal wear is expected of business encounters, and a handshake is the normal greeting. Tipping is usually around ten to fifteen percent for most services, and service charges are not included on hotel bills by law.
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