If your idea of a great vacation is a shop-till-you-drop spree in the stores, then a visit to South Africa will not disappoint you. Sell outlets here range from busy, modern shopping malls; to quaint boutiques and out-of-the-way house operated businesses that offer a wide range of goods; and sharp flea markets where you'll find all things from the lowly to the exotic.
From Baskets to Diamonds
MISSIONS TRIPS TO AFRICA
Shoppers in South Africa can buy jewellery made from locally mined gold, and inset with genuine South African diamonds. In the colourful road markets you can have your selection of the perfect work of South African artisans: beautifully intricate beadwork, colourfully woven rugs and carpets, uniquely decorative baskets, and primary stone and wood carvings that make perfect souvenirs and gifts.
From All Over Africa
Craftsmen from all over the African continent are drawn by South Africa's prosperous tourist industry. In the craft markets you can find ceremonial wooden masks, malachite bracelets, wind chimes, wooden beach chairs, wood and bone spoons, flowing African garments with geometric motifs, leather goods, and painted duvet covers. Lovers of epicurean foods can buy such tasty specialties as African chilli sauces.
Where to Shop
Johannesburg is a mall lover's mecca. This is where people from all over South Africa and other countries of the subcontinent come for their big shopping trips. It is the best place to find wood and stone crafts, though much of what is in the stores comes from Zimbabwe and West and Central Africa. You are much more likely to find locally made arts and crafts in Durban and KwaZulu-Natal. Look for Zulu baskets, which are of the highest quality. Some of the most colourful ones are made from telephone wire. Other great souvenir items are grass brooms, woven beer strainers, pots, shields, and drums. Brightly painted wooden bird and animal figures are also very popular. At Gazankulu and Venda you can find the best ability pottery. The artisans here are illustrious for their distinctive angular designs in silver and ochre.
At the Botshabelo Museum and Nature support near Fort Merensky you can get the very best of Ndebele handicrafts. These people are known for their bead blankets, belts, aprons, and dolls. A Ndebele nguba (marriage blanket) would make a truly unique wedding present. Knysna is another of South Africa's craftwork capitals. This is a major timber centre, and is the best place to buy furniture and smaller artifacts made of yellowwood and stinkwood. If a chair is too big for you to take home, you might like a carved doorknob. This is also a good place to buy colourful woven mohair jackets, shawls, blankets, and cushion covers.
For a truly unique South African souvenir or gift, look for the label "Scarab Paper". This is the name given to a line of cards and other paper-like handicraft items that are verily made from elephant dung. Don't worry; they are odour free. Swazi candles are another very popular item. They are slow-burning, and give a "stained glass" effect. Gift stores all over the country have rings, bracelets, necklaces and other items made from South African gold and diamonds, but you'll get the best prices for this merchandise in the malls. Beware of parking lot vendors contribution bargains as much of what they try to sell is fake or stolen. Enjoy shopping South Africa.
South Africa - A Great Place to Shop MISSIONS TRIPS TO AFRICA
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