business trip please help

[Unregistered]

I work for a multinational company and i have been offered the chance to go on a business trip to their location in south africa . I know the company is located in Midrand and or Waitloo, But I am thinking of cancelling I know it sounds lame but I am terrified as a female due to a lot of negative comments I have read and heard. I have travelled and lived in a lot of countries so I am pretty well travelled but I am just nervous about this trip
Can anyone reassure me do you know these places are they ok? surroundings ok?

[Unregistered]

Midrand is a safe town in Johannesburg, its half way from Pretoria(Capital) and Johannesburg city, the surroundings are safe. Haven't heard of Waitloo, do you know if its the right spelling. Give a shout, if you need any more info. You'll enjoy SA.

[Unregistered]

I would think Midrand is about as safe as the better parts of London is in the UK - and there are very good and inexpensive hotel accommodations in Midrand as well. My advice -you will be sorry if you dont visit SA. Just ask if you need more info - names of hotels, contact numbers etc.

RELAX and ENJOY the trip!
KEITH-SA

[Unregistered]

Midrand is good and safe as any other city in the world. Waltloo I have no idea so it could be in the sticks making it not too nice a place from which to travel?

[Unregistered]

Midrand is the new industrial area for Johannesburg and Pretoria, it's located midway between the two and consists of lush office parks and new factories owned by multinationals. There's very little chance you will walk around anwhere in Midrand (or anywhere in Johannesburg) except from the hotel to the car and from the carpark to the office. The incidents of crime I have read about in this area consist of bogus delivery guys or repairmen that enter offices and steal cellphones and laptops. Never heard of Waltloo.

[Unregistered]

25 years ago I drove through Waltloo daily on the way to work at the then biggest car factory in South Africa (Sigma; producing Mazda, Ford, Mitsubishi, Peugot). It is an industrial estate, not a tourist attraction, so I don't know what more to say about it.

[Unregistered]

I have worked in Midrand before for 2 years and I think its relatively safe. I never had any problems there and even went out clubbing there at some of the clubs and I have`nt seen anything to be terrified of. I really think you should come and check it out.

[Unregistered]

You will most propably stay in a hotel in Sandton or Pretoria. I never doubt what Gerald says but I had to check for myself. I've never heard of this Waltloo place. I doubt if you will stay in that area. So that will only be for meetings etc.
Don't miss the change to see a bit of SA.

[thatch22]

I only see this post today.

Midrand is safe no problem, it is an area between Joburg and Pretoria. I live in Kyalami, also Midrand and we live in the green belt. Here around are a lot of nice guesthouse, where the business ladies/man can stay. And close to everything.

Regards from Midrand

[benneth]

You'll obviously need clothing (probably spanning several seasons), makeup, jewelry, personal things (computer, photos, music, etc.). Be sure to take your medicines (and prescriptions). You'll also need to have your present place secured (do you have neighbors who can water your plants, etc.?)

You're going to need a place to stay (hopefully, you'll find a furnished one!). Bring contact information so you can keep in touch with your family and friends, too.

I can't think of anything else right now, but you probably already know what you need and use every day! Good luck with this!