FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
1. What is the weather like in Port Alfred?
Summer lasts from mid-October to mid-February and is characterized by hot, sunny weather and thunderstorms that clear quickly. The only exception is the Western Cape where due to the Mediterranean climate, the rain falls during winter.
Autumn lasts from mid-February to April and is characterized by little rain and warm weather, ideal for travelling and sightseeing. Winter lasts from May to July and is characterized by cold, crisp days and cold nights in the plateau region. Spring lasts from August to mid-October and the weather starts to get warmer.
2. What clothing should I bring?
A warm coat for winter is vital and closed boots/shoes, especially if you want to do some hiking. The days in winter tend to warm up into the 20’s but are cool in the evenings. The Spring/Summer days and evenings are very warm and light clothing is suggested. Remember, the African will cause your clothes to fade.
3. Is it necessary to have a malaria injection before I arrive in South Africa?
No, it is not necessary to have the tablets or injection prior to arrival in South Africa. It is suggested to have it done when you arrival as the latest strain is available. You only need the injection if you plan to go to the Kruger National Park.
4. Am I going to be picked up at the airport in Port Elizabeth?
Students who have indicated that they wish to be picked up at the Airport, through the Grand Tour Office Port Alfred, will be collected on either the Friday, Saturday or Sunday (the weekend directly before the module starts) between 12:00 and 15:00. You will be met by a member of staff holding a Stenden South Africa sign and be taken to your accommodation in either Port Alfred or Alicedale.
5. What is the safety and security like in Port Alfred?
It is advised that students walk in pairs during the day and in groups at night. As is the case in any country, this is more a precautionary measure. Port Alfred tends to have petty theft and students should put valuables in cupboards or out of sight to prevent temptation.
6. If I need to contact someone from Stenden South Africa urgently, prior to my arrival, who should I contact?
Tamlyn Paterson of the Grand Tour Office should be your first point of contact. If it is an emergency, you should contact either Wouter Hensens (Academic Dean) or Nigel Bottell (Business Development Manager).
7. What will be provided for me in the accommodation?
Most students will be accommodated off campus but within walking distance. This accommodation will be sharing and some rooms have en-suite. Moreover, all rooms are spacious. The rooms will be cleaned for you (if tidy) and fresh linen and towels will be supplied weekly. A laundry facility is provided on the campus.
8. I am bringing a surf board/windsurfing equipment. Is it possible to have the campus transport assist in bringing it to Port Alfred?
Students bringing over-sized luggage need to contact Tamlyn Paterson from the Grand Tour Office in Port Alfred to arrange transport prior to arrival in South Africa.
9. What age do you need to be in order to rent a car?
Students should be 23 years of age in order to rent a car. Stenden, however, has an arrangement with the car rental company, Avis, and students who are 18 years of age and are in possession of an international drivers license, can rent a car from the Grahamstown, Port Elizabeth or Port Alfred branches.
10. Can I open a bank account in South Africa?
It is now possible for foreign students to open a bank account in South Africa. This is convenient for students who need to have money deposited from home. All that is required is your passport and a letter from Stenden South Africa confirming that you are enrolled as a student and reside on campus.
11. Is there a shopping mall in Port Alfred?
There are two shopping malls in Port Alfred. In these malls you will find several clothing stores, pharmacies, surf shops, and a supermarket. These malls have either a “Super Spar” or a “Pick and Pay.” You can purchase a variety of western brands, for example L’Oreal, Dove and Nivea, so it is not necessary to bring these products from the Netherlands.
Contact Grand Tour: grandtour@stenden.co.za