WHAT IS A 'SAFFA'?
The word SAFFA (colloquial slang for South African) , originated from the influx of South Africans that moved to the UK over their gap year on a working holiday visa. Particularly London. The word SAFFA is mostly used by the British, Aussies and Kiwis, and nowadays it has become quite a well known term in and around Hong Kong too. Typically the word SAFFA was mostly used at an antipodean bar called the WalkaBout, by the Aussie & Kiwi expatriates that hung out there.
WHAT IS A 'BRAAI'?
A BRAAI, (or also known as a 'BBQ' in native English countries), is a social gathering where Saffa's get together to eat, drink and socialise around the fire. It is the first thing you will be invited to when you visit South Africa. A Braai will take place whatever the weather! So you will have to go even if it’s raining like mad. At a braai you will be introduced to substances known as "mieliepap" and "boerewors." Click on the following for more info about a 'BRAAI'.
WHAT IS A POTJIE'?
A POTJIE is a cast iron pot, and is generally used to make a variety of dishes in the form of a stew. South Africans have over the years used this deeply rooted method to make the most amazing dishes. If you have not yet had potjiekos (food made from a cast iron pot) then here is an opportunity to do so!
TYPICAL SAFFA WORDS/SAYINGS THAT WOULD GET YOU THROUGH THE DAY
1. Lekker - Nice / Properly / Good
2. Kuier / Jol - Party
3. Izit? or Sho? - Is that so?
4. Ja, Nee - Yes, No...maybe
5. Babelaas - Hangover
6. Just now - An unkown amount of time
7. Howzit? - Hello (informal greeting)
8. Bru - My friend
9. Kif - Great
10. Now-now - Reference to something that will happen soon.... or possibly never.
11. Chisa Nyama - braai (cooking food over fire)
DO NOT BE OVERWHELMED BY THESE UNFAMILIAR TERMS... BRING ALONG A LEKKER ATTITUDE AND A BIG APPETITE AND YOU WILL HAVE A GREAT TIME!
