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Making Friends in South Africa


A smile, handshake and a beer will soon welcome you into a circle of newly found friends. South Africans are very easy going, friendly and welcoming.  
Try out a few of these local phrases, in some of South Africa’s official languages:
 

Hello

Howzit!  Hello, widely used throughout South Africa 
Molo!   Hello in Xhosa
Sawubona!  Hello in Zulu
Dumela! Hello in Sotho

 

Thank You

Dankie! Thank you in Afrikaans
Enkosi!   Thank you in Xhosa
Siyabonga!    Thank you in Zulu
Ke a le boga!  Thank you in Sotho

 

Good Bye

Cheers!
This may mean Thank You in some countries, but in South Africa, it’s the casual greeting for goodbye and when toasting a few drinks with friends

Tot siens!  Goodbye in Afrikaans
In Africa, goodbyes are regarded as permanent and often reserved for the deceased.
“See you again” is preffered when parting. Here are some phrases to try out:

Xhosa
If you’re going - Sala Kak’hle, meaning stay well
If you’re staying - Hamba Kak’hle, meaning go well

Zulu
If you’re going - Sala Kahle, meaning stay well
If you’re staying - Hamba Kahle, meaning go well

Sotho
If you’re going - Sala hantle, meaning stay well
If you’re staying - Tsamaya hantle, meaning go well

 

Journeys2Africa Travel Tip: Learn the authentic South African handshake and teach your friends back home!

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