Hello I really want to study abroad in South Africa because South Africa has intrigued me since I was a little kid and I wanted to know which is a better destination for either a semester or summer/winter abroad Johannesburg or Cape Town
Johannesburg is the seat of politics (i.e. near Pretoria), a big rather violent city. It has plenty of culture and would be the better place to see how the country works. Cape Town is an amazingly beautiful city. It would be a nicer place to live, you won’t get as clear a picture of the country. U Cape Town is also very good. Both cities have vast townships that have their own political cultures and activities, with many supporting NGOs and progressive groups. It’s a really fascinating place, great people, wonderful food.
I was there 15 years ago on a reporting gig (HIV/Aids crisis). I love the place, very positive energy. At that time, the malls were not at all globalized, so were full of unique shops with quirky offerings.
Thanks for the feedback
In johannesburg is there a lot of stuff to see like in Cape Town and is it safe enough that I won’t have any problems while I am there
johannesburg is not that safe and there is much less to see than in Cape Town.
South Africa is not safe, period, you will need to keep your wits about you at all times and listen to locals, especially if you are a woman. Cape Town is probably somewhat safer than Joburg, and more touristy and beautiful, Joburg more culturally interesting, as Alcibiade says. Both would surely be an amazing experience, though, no one is meaning to put you off! Pick your city depending on your prevailing interest, then research carefully what to do to ensure best possible safety during your stay. Good luck.
I’d go with Cape Town because Johannesburg isn’t very safe overall. You’ll have to be careful, if you’re a girl avoid travelling alone, etc. But both are wonderful cities and the country is very interesting.
BTW, have you read Malla Nunn?
I’ve spent quite a bit of time in Joburg, and less time in Cape Town but still enough to get a vibe for it. Joburg is a terrible student city - there isn’t much to do there at all and you can’t really go out at night. There’s no city centre or anything like that, mostly just shopping complexes with restaurants and bars. Cape Town on the other hand, while there is still crime, has beautiful beaches and a lot more atmosphere. There is so much more to do, including hiking, beach, road trips, bars and clubs and just a much better general vibe.
Thanks for the feedback this will help a lot with my decision and no I have not read malla nunn