Load Shedding Hacks Every Expat Must Know (Podcast Episode Follow-up)
Load Shedding Survival Guide: Essential hacks every expat needs to minimize disruption and maximize comfort during outages.
As we wrap up our four-part series on living as an expat in Johannesburg, South Africa, I can't help but reflect on the journey. From the challenges to the triumphs, each experience has shaped my understanding of this vibrant city.
In yesterday’s finale episode of this mini-series, I shared how to balance cultural immersion with self-care while navigating the unique aspects of life in JoBurg, including the infamous load shedding and the importance of managing your visa status.
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Celebrating Life’s Milestones Abroad
One of the most memorable experiences during my time in Johannesburg was discovering the gender of our baby boy.
As an expat, my husband and I have had quite the adventure—conceiving in Zimbabwe, finding out about the pregnancy in Zambia, and preparing for parenthood in a foreign land.
Embracing Cultural Differences
Transitioning to life in Johannesburg from a different culture can be daunting. After living in China for five years, I was accustomed to a different set of norms and practices.
Every day brought new discoveries and occasional challenges, from deciphering local customs to grappling with the emotional toll of preparing for motherhood so far from my family and everything familiar.
This journey taught me that embracing a new culture goes far beyond language and food; it seeps into every aspect of daily life, especially during such a pivotal personal transition.
Navigating the Challenges of Load Shedding
Load shedding is a norm in Johannesburg, and it can be a significant hurdle for digital nomads and expats. Here are some tips to survive this challenge:
Tips for Surviving Load Shedding
Backup Power Source: Invest in a UPS, generator, or solar power bank to keep your devices charged.
Schedule Strategically: If you’re teaching or working online, plan your meetings around load shedding schedules, if you’re unable to use a backup power source. You can use apps like ESP
Cafes with Backup Generators: Find local cafes that have generators. They usually provide a reliable power source and Wi-Fi, allowing you to work while enjoying a cup of coffee.
Exploring the Culinary Delights of Johannesburg
Food became a source of comfort during my time in Johannesburg. Here are some of our favorite spots:
RocoMamas: Known for its delicious burgers and wings, this was a go-to for us.
I craved Rocomamas at least once a week but we tried to budget responsibly so we ate here at least 2-3 times a month. Debonairs: Their pizza was a regular treat.
Eating pizza was a weekly regular - mind you, I still cooked every day 😂 Cinnabon: This American favorite brought nostalgia and comfort! I introduced it to my husband and he fell in love. 🤭
Spur Steakhouse: A great place for a hearty meal.
This was another newfound fave of ours. Their food is really satisfying! Kung Fu Kitchen: A fantastic Chinese restaurant that satisfied our cravings.
Food not only nourished us but also provided a sense of normalcy and joy amidst the periodic chaos of adjusting to a new environment.
The Consequences of Overstaying Your Visa
In yesterday’s episode, I share our experiences of what happens when you overstay your visa in South Africa. In some countries, you can simply pay a fee to cover the lapsed period, but not in South Africa.
Understanding visa regulations is extremely important. If you overstay your visa in South Africa:
Less than 30 Days: You will be banned from re-entering for 12 months and marked as undesirable.
More than 30 Days: The ban extends to five years.
My husband and I faced this challenge, and it's a stark reminder to always be aware of your visa status to avoid complications.
I thought I took a photo of the document but I guess I deleted or else I would post it here.
Conclusion: Embracing the Journey
Overall, my time in Johannesburg has been filled with ups and downs, but it has also been a journey of personal growth and cultural appreciation.
Each experience has taught me the importance of self-care abroad, community, and embracing the beauty of cultural diversity.
Did you enjoy this mini-series? I’d love to hear your thoughts!
Please leave a comment and let me know what you think.
Don’t forget to subscribe to the Beyond Borders podcast for more insights into cultural experiences and travel tips.
Dr. CK 💋