When I tell people I spend time in South Africa the first thing they normally refer to is the crime rate. Yes, there is a problem but it's not as bad as people think or are led to believe by certain media outlets.

Danny Jordaan, CEO of the Local Organising Committee, has also defended his country this week to confirm the safety of everyone visiting South Africa for the World Cup in 2010.

He told the gaggle "There is no question that this country has the capability to safeguard every person that comes here for the World Cup,"

"We will safeguard places where the players will stay, the routes, hotels, etc. The country has demonstrated its ability to manage other world cups with no incidence of crime."

I've travelled quite a bit of South Africa and spent nights in places where I ought to be concerned but I've never had a problem. That's not to say there isn't a problem but a lot of it is common sense.

If you see an alley and it's late at night, don't walk down it unless you see 5,000 other supporters walking down it. If one of the many local guides or tourist offices tell you not to get on a certain bus or train, don't.

A general rule for anyone travelling to South Africa in 2010 will be to go where everyone else is and only use authorised or organised tours.

It will be a lot of fun but and you have to go to South Africa with an open mind, but always be careful, as you would in any foreign land.