(CNN) — I love helping others plan a trip to South Africa. Not only does it give me a sense of home-turf pride, it’s a beautiful country to visit that’s great at looking after tourists.
First, let’s get a common misconception out of the way: Yes, there is a significant crime rate in some parts of the country, and you will need to be vigilant. But, the same can be said for almost any country worldwide.
On to the good stuff. South Africa is a beautifully diverse country, racially and geographically. That being said, it’s important to have a travel plan before you go. My ideal South African vacation would include a lengthy stop in Cape Town (my home town), a drive up the Garden Route and a safari. That way you get a bit of all the country has to offer.