World Cup South Africa 2010

For the past two years South Africa has been the most popular country for people participating in a structured gap year programme with a member of Year Out Group.  2010 promises to be no exception not least because of the added interest of the World Cup.  Several Year Out Group member organisations have prepared voluntary work and other programmes that can be fitted round the World Cup programme.

Whatever your reason for travelling to South Africa in 2010, research and careful planning will be essential to ensure that your trip goes smoothly.  The Foreign & Commonwealth Office (FCO) is advising anybody travelling to South Africa for the football world cup next year to familiarise themselves with the country before they go.

The draw for the World Cup took place early in December and many travelling fans, including those on a gap year, are expected to start planning and booking their trips to South Africa over the Christmas holiday period.

This is the first time that the World Cup has been held in an African country and most fans will be unfamiliar with its culture and topography.  That is why the FCO is urging England fans to familiarise themselves with South Africa, from its culture to its weather, by researching their destination and visiting the newly launched website 'World Cup South Africa 2010'.

Loaded with information including the number of blank passport pages you need on arrival in South Africa, or how to avoid local scams, 'World Cup South Africa 2010' will provide many more top tips for fans wanting to get the most out of their trips to South Africa.

FCO's Top Ten World Cup Checklist:

1. Book your accommodation before travelling
2. Get travel insurance
3. Check out the transport options in South Africa before you travel
4. Get to know the different rules of the road
5. Visit your GP and get necessary vaccinations and medications before flying
6. Ensure your passport is valid for at least 30 days from your return travel date, and that it has at least two blank pages
7. Don't get caught out by buying a fake or invalid ticket
8. Be aware of South Africa's law and customs
9. Register your travel plans online with LOCATE before travelling
10. Make arrangements to arrive early at the stadium on match days

Chris Bryant , FCO Minister, said: "South Africa is a wonderfully diverse country and promises our fans a great experience next summer. However, it is crucial that those planning to travel to the region are aware of what measures they should take to stay safe.

Visiting the FCO website to research the destination, as well as taking out appropriate travel insurance in case something does go wrong can make all the difference between an experience to remember and one to forget."

( Last Updated: 23-12-2009)