Manners in South Africa

Greetings

Strict business culture coexists with flexible community culture regarding time.
Polite to address elders and superiors with "Ma'am" or "Sir."
Avoid directly bringing up religion or race topics with strangers during first meetings.
Always maintain eye contact and smile during greetings.
Gifts are generally not opened immediately; opening them later is proper etiquette.
Obtain permission for photography in public places.
Handing things with only the left hand may be considered rude.
At meals, do not begin eating until the host gives the signal.
10-15% tip is customary at restaurants.
Smoking areas are strictly designated in urban areas.
On safaris, absolutely follow driver instructions as a safety rule.
In business, prompt email response is valued.
Driving manners are easily evaluated in this car-oriented society.