Latest news with #AntoinetteTurner
IOL News
10 hours ago
- IOL News
Transforming layovers into mini-vacations: Tips for savvy South African travellers
A traveller at the airport waiting for a connecting flight during a layover, but there are other options. Image: Pexels More travellers are looking for ways they can 'double dip' on their trips, and as a result, a growing number of savvy South African travellers have transformed their long-haul layovers from mere waiting periods into exciting opportunities for unexpected adventures. A stopover is a break in a journey, usually lasting longer than 24 hours (or more than four hours in some cases), where you stay at a place between the start and end of your trip to visit the place or take a break. With a bit of planning, what was once seen as idle time can become a delightful mini-vacation, breaking the monotony of lengthy flights. According to a recent travel survey by Flight Centre, only 49% of South Africans prefer direct flights, suggesting that a remarkable 51% are eager to explore stopovers that enhance their travel experiences. For those eager to turn their layover into a mini-vacation, Antoinette Turner, General Manager at Flight Centre South Africa, offers some tips. Plan like a pro Not all layovers are created equal; some can be plagued by overpriced coffee and frustrating internet issues, while others can lead to game-changing experiences. Selecting your stopover city deserves the same level of consideration as choosing your final destination. Look for locations that offer visa-free entry for South African passport holders, quick airport-to-city transfers, and enticing extras like complimentary tours or hotel deals. Before finalising your plans, check the visa regulations for your chosen country, as even brief exits may require paperwork. Additionally, avoid overcommitting by allowing buffer time for potential queues, unexpected traffic, or that unfortunate friend who always seems to be selected for additional security checks. Some airlines are also known for providing enticing stopover packages that include bundled hotel stays or city tours at appealing prices, enhancing the allure of your excursion. Make your rest stops feel like holidays Sometimes, the most blissful moments during extensive travels come from sinking into a comfortable bed instead of enduring an uncomfortable flight. The travel survey also notes that a staggering 87% of South African travellers express a desire for 'quiet travel' experiences. As a result, stopovers represent a chance for restful recovery disguised as luxury. Instead of cramming back-to-back long-hauls, consider incorporating time for relaxation. Book an airport tour Destinations such as Incheon (Seoul), Changi (Singapore), and Schiphol (Amsterdam) offer complimentary or low-cost transit tours specifically designed for busy travellers on layovers. These tours are stress-free, allowing you to board a tour bus and explore the city without worry. Plan a DIY day trip If you're confident in your navigation skills and have checked your bags through to your final destination, consider embarking on a solo adventure. Hop on an express train or airport shuttle to discover local treasures, but remember to set an alarm - missing your next flight is definitely not the vibe. Go on a taste adventure If time constraints leave little opportunity for sightseeing, focus instead on the culinary delights that await you. For instance, no visit to Istanbul is complete without sampling Turkish tea, while ramen in Tokyo is a must-try, and kaya toast at Singapore's bustling airport hawker stalls offer a delectable experience. One exciting meal can serve as a cultural deep dive, enriching your layover.
IOL News
4 days ago
- IOL News
Why South Africans are trading crowds for calm: the rise of off-season travel
A traveller visiting a popular attraction without the crowds during off-peak season. Image: Pexels For many South African travellers, the ideal holiday once meant booking flights or accommodation during the peak season, navigating crowded tourist traps, and breaking the bank to experience the very best a destination has to offer. However, a new trend is emerging among local explorers: off-season travel, proving to be an appealing option for those looking to maximise their holiday experience while protecting their wallets. 'As it turns out, travelling at the 'wrong' time of year may actually be the smartest way to go,' notes Antoinette Turner, general manager of Flight Centre South Africa. This new approach is resonating with those keen to save between 20% and 50% on peak season prices while also seeking more authentic experiences less influenced by the rush of tourist crowds. With skyrocketing living costs, many South Africans are reconsidering their travel styles, opting for affordability that doesn't compromise on enjoyment. 'Watching your pennies while being bumped and elbowed is hardly a relaxing way to spend a hard-earned holiday,' Turner adds. 'But more than that, low-season travel often offers richer experiences when iconic places quieten down, and lesser-known destinations really come into their own.' Turner unpacks the travel trend and how travellers can save costs when travelling. Video Player is loading. Play Video Play Unmute Current Time 0:00 / Duration -:- Loaded : 0% Stream Type LIVE Seek to live, currently behind live LIVE Remaining Time - 0:00 This is a modal window. Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window. Text Color White Black Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Background Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Transparent Window Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Transparent Semi-Transparent Opaque Font Size 50% 75% 100% 125% 150% 175% 200% 300% 400% Text Edge Style None Raised Depressed Uniform Dropshadow Font Family Proportional Sans-Serif Monospace Sans-Serif Proportional Serif Monospace Serif Casual Script Small Caps Reset restore all settings to the default values Done Close Modal Dialog End of dialog window. Advertisement Next Stay Close ✕ Ad Loading Why travel off-peak? One of the most enticing advantages of off-peak travel is the significant reduction in prices associated with airfares, accommodation, and activities. 'The quieter months of the year often deliver tempting deals and irresistible upgrades,' Turner explains. 'The 'wrong season' is actually the perfect time to enjoy five-star luxe at three-star prices.' She highlights that some destinations go the extra mile to entice visitors during off-season periods. Dubai exemplifies this through its 'Dubai Summer Surprises' event from June to September, featuring massive sales across notable malls and exceptional hotel rates, as well as initiatives like 'Kids Go Free' to further engage families. Additionally, dining out becomes a more enjoyable affair, with fewer patrons resulting in relaxed restaurant reservations and attentive service. 'Fewer diners equal easier restaurant reservations, and service staff aren't spinning from table to table, compromising on service,' Turner emphasises. Shoulder seasons offer sweet savings Despite the occasional risk of less-than-ideal weather conditions, smart travellers can circumvent this pitfall through proper planning. 'Many South Africans are timing their holidays just right to avoid extreme conditions,' Turner notes, highlighting the growing popularity of shoulder seasons - periods between high and low travel seasons. These intervals can provide access to the best of both worlds. Japan is cited as an excellent example, with its shoulder seasons from early April to mid-June and mid-September to early December gaining traction among South African travellers. With the Yen's recent dip, budgets expand further, allowing for memorable experiences that circumvent the bustling cherry blossom season. Equally, tropical destinations showcase their allure during the rainy season, attracting travellers with unique experiences, as is the case with Hanifaru Bay in the Maldives, where manta rays perform breathtaking acrobatics between May and November. 'And when it comes to cruising, the weather becomes less of a concern,' Turner adds, acknowledging that onboard activities still thrive, whatever the weather may be.
IOL News
21-05-2025
- IOL News
Safe, Stylish, and Solo: How Hotels Are Rethinking Travel for Women
Hotels are re-examining every touchpoint to ensure female travellers feel safe, welcome, and able to embrace the freedom of solo travel. Image: Supplied In hotels, lodges, hilltop retreats, and urban centres around the world, a quiet revolution is playing out as solo women flex their travel muscle – and impressive annual spend – to become one of the fastest growing markets in the world. 'Once seen as a niche corner of tourism, solo female travellers now represent a powerful and rapidly growing segment, with a projected global annual spend of over $125 billion,' says Antoinette Turner, General Manager Flight Centre South Africa. According to research by Condor Ferries, 84% of all solo travellers are women, the average age of a solo female traveller is 47 (but ranging in age from 18 to 80), and 83% of women travel solo to escape routine, stress and responsibilities. Turner agrees. 'Our research shows that women are more likely to say that travel is extremely important for mental health, and they're looking for authentic, enriching and community-driven adventures. But importantly, they're also more likely to prioritise safety and peace of mind.' And hotels are responding. Not only have some hotels incorporated women-only floors, but they're also re-examining every touchpoint to ensure female travellers feel safe, welcome, and able to embrace the freedom of solo travel. Safety and comfort: top priorities for solo female travellers. Image: Supplied Video Player is loading. Play Video Play Unmute Current Time 0:00 / Duration -:- Loaded : 0% Stream Type LIVE Seek to live, currently behind live LIVE Remaining Time - 0:00 This is a modal window. Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window. Text Color White Black Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Background Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Transparent Window Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Transparent Semi-Transparent Opaque Font Size 50% 75% 100% 125% 150% 175% 200% 300% 400% Text Edge Style None Raised Depressed Uniform Dropshadow Font Family Proportional Sans-Serif Monospace Sans-Serif Proportional Serif Monospace Serif Casual Script Small Caps Reset restore all settings to the default values Done Close Modal Dialog End of dialog window. Advertisement Video Player is loading. Play Video Play Unmute Current Time 0:00 / Duration -:- Loaded : 0% Stream Type LIVE Seek to live, currently behind live LIVE Remaining Time - 0:00 This is a modal window. Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window. Text Color White Black Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Background Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Transparent Window Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Transparent Semi-Transparent Opaque Font Size 50% 75% 100% 125% 150% 175% 200% 300% 400% Text Edge Style None Raised Depressed Uniform Dropshadow Font Family Proportional Sans-Serif Monospace Sans-Serif Proportional Serif Monospace Serif Casual Script Small Caps Reset restore all settings to the default values Done Close Modal Dialog End of dialog window. Next Stay Close ✕ What women want From the moment a woman walks out of the airport, solo travel presents invisible vulnerabilities: getting from A to B, navigating public transport in an unfamiliar language, trusting e-hailing services, and arriving late at one's hotel or accommodation. In response, hotels and hospitality brands are starting to shift the paradigm. Many now offer pre-approved, monitored ground transport, including vetted drivers, in-car dashcams, real-time tracking, and the option to select female drivers. As Turner explains, features like well-lit entrances, female-only floors, biometric key access, and 24/7 concierge services are becoming standard at many urban and boutique properties worldwide. 'Women often request certain hotels, even certain floors and particular rooms to feel safe,' says Turner. 'But we're also seeing hotels relook their entire offering, including city guides, group tours and group activities where women can connect with like-minded individuals and immerse themselves in local life without ever comprising on safety or security.' Hilton Hotels and Resorts go a step further, by tailoring their dining options for solo travellers, including incorporating elements like an odd number of bar stools, a variety of table types, and personalised tasting options. It's all about identifying and catering to solo travellers' needs – making sure they feel 100% comfortable and at home. Tailored experiences for women are becoming the norm, offering richer and safer travel options than ever before. Image: Supplied Planning a solo trip For those setting out on their first solo journey – or their fiftieth – the balance between safety and freedom is key. Turner shares her top tips here: 1. Prioritise pre-trip planning. Research your destination's safety, cultural norms, and neighbourhoods. Choose centrally located accommodation with positive reviews from solo female travellers. 2. Focus on your first night. Book safe transport ahead of time or opt for properties offering custom transfers. Many smart hotels partner with reliable car services with safety features like live vehicle tracking and designated female drivers. Above all, says Turner, you don't want to be arriving in a new destination after dark, with no plans in place. 3. Trust your intuition. If a situation makes you uncomfortable, listen to your gut. Empowerment includes changing plans or walking away. 4. Share your itinerary. Friends or family should know where you're meant to be, where you're going and how to get in touch. 5. Look after your valuables, travel documents and personal information. Make good use of the hotel safe, consider using a bumbag to conceal your wallet and phone when out and about, and always have digital copies of your travel documents securely saved (but easily accessible). Of course, as Turner explains, going solo doesn't mean travelling in solitude (unless, of course, you want to). 'Social travel can be the biggest adventure,' says Turner. 'Especially if you tap into local events, join group tours or activities, and research some really different experiences.' The future of female travel Today's solo female traveller isn't just a backpacker on a gap year – she's a professional, a mother, a retiree, an adventurer. And she's setting new standards for hotels and operators. With the hospitality world taking notice, tailored experiences for women are becoming the norm, not the exception. From hi-tech features to heartfelt human connection, new travel models are offering something richer – and safer – than ever before. Ready to plan your next getaway? Contact your expert travel advisor at Flight Centre today.
Mail & Guardian
16-05-2025
- Mail & Guardian
Solo Female Travellers Set Their Sights on Africa
There's no doubt about it; solo female travel is on the rise. Global travel brand, Virtuoso, reports that women now make up 71% of solo travellers. In the US, Google searches for 'solo female travel' went up 131% last year alone (compared to 2023), and even the briefest look at social media reveals a wealth of Instagram accounts, Facebook groups, and Reddit communities all centred around women's solo adventures. While Europe (Italy, Spain and Portugal) remains the top choice for solo travellers, Latin America (Peru, Costa Rica and Ecuador) and Asia (India, Japan, Thailand and Vietnam) are also in demand. Meanwhile, Africa might just be emerging as the next frontier for solo female adventurers, with women-led safaris transforming the traditional Big 5 experience into something more authentic, immersive and sustainable. As Antoinette Turner, General Manager of Flight Centre South Africa, explains, Tanzania, Zambia, Botswana and 'Africa is becoming more sought after amongst solo women travellers because it offers wide open spaces and authentic experiences untouched by mass tourism,' says Turner. 'Unlike overcrowded tourist hotspots, the continent provides room to breathe, reflect, learn and, ultimately, have fun – without the unrelenting pressure of work or home life.' Kgomotso Ramothea, CEO of ATTA® (The African Travel & Tourism Association) agrees: 'ATTA® has just published a whitepaper on Africa's untapped tourism niches, and women-only safaris features prominently.' 'Importantly, it's not about avoiding men, feeling 'safer' in women-only groups, wanting to feel 'empowered' or even setting off on a journey of self-discovery,' says Ramothea. 'Instead, it's quite simple. Women are increasingly looking for flexibility – and the opportunity to experience Africa on their own terms, and at their own pace.' Safari ideas Every woman is different, and operators or accommodation suppliers that can customise diverse experiences will lead the market, says Turner. 'This means blending adventure with cultural immersion, traditional sightseeing and moments of rest and tranquillity, rather than assuming all women want wall-to-wall spa treatments – unless that's genuinely their preference.' Turner believes there's tremendous potential to develop safe, flexible itineraries that go beyond the traditional Big 5 safari. Some possibilities for South African travellers include: Zanzibar for a spice farm, Stone Town and Prison Island tour, night markets, local cooking classes, dhow cruises and plenty of beach time! Botswana for an unforgettable trip that takes in both the elephants of Chobe and the waterways of the Okavango Delta. Think game drives, river safaris and sunset cruises (even quad biking in the Makgadikgadi if you're feeling adventurous!). Zambia for a stay at the iconic Royal Livingstone Hotel, adrenaline-fuelled activities at Victoria Falls (including a dip in Devil's Pool), a walking safari in South Luangwa National Park and the museums, galleries and restaurants of Lusaka. Uganda for gorilla trekking in the Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, swimming, canoeing, bird watching and nature walks at Lake Bunyonyi ('place of many little birds') or seeking out matoke , the national dish of Uganda. Rwanda for a tour of the country's vibrant capital, Kigali (which is widely considered one of Africa's safest cities for solo travellers), a visit to the Kigali Genocide Memorial, a women-led coffee farm tour and a private game drive in Akagera National Park. What women want According to Flight Centre's latest Global Travel Survey – conducted in January 2025 – women travellers are more likely to: Place higher priority on safety, peace of mind and stress-free travel planning. Value travel agents for their expertise and convenience. Consider travel extremely important for mental health. Prefer alcohol-free holidays. Identify lost luggage and flight delays as their top travel frustrations. 'It's no different to solo travel,' says Turner. 'Ultimately, safety and preparedness remain paramount, followed by freedom, flexibility and 'time to just be'.' Top tips for solo travel For Turner, research, preparation and finding the right travel partners is key. 'Hop onto the solo travel message boards, research your destination, take note of travel tips and packing advice and ensure you deal with partners with a strong track record in solo travel – after all, you want to get the most out of your trip,' she says. In addition, Turner emphasises the following: Be mindful of single supplements. Have the discussion up front and negotiate where possible. Alternatively, explore travelling in low season or shoulder season for better rates. Plan your first night well (in other words, avoid arriving in a new destination after dark without trusted transport and accommodation in place). Book group activities. It's a great way to meet like-minded women, expand your circle and even make life-long friends. Connect with locals and enjoy authentic experiences. Plan rest days and give yourself plenty of space to be spontaneous. Invest in comprehensive travel insurance. Take care of your valuables (for example, use the hotel safe and consider wearing a money belt when out and about) and protect your personal information. Make both hard copies and digital copies of your important travel documents and store them securely. Check-in with family and friends back home so that people always know where you are and where you're headed. 'Female travel – whether solo or with friends – is booming,' says Turner. 'Studies show travel companies dedicated exclusively to women have surged by a staggering 230% in recent years. It's fantastic to see more women of all ages embracing African adventures – and operators designing itineraries that meet the demand for eco-friendly, sustainable, flexible, interesting and enriching experiences that resonate with female travellers,' she concludes.
IOL News
07-05-2025
- IOL News
The JOMO revolution: how modern travellers are finding bliss in missing out
A traveller enjoys an immersive experience disconnected from the world in the Namib Desert. Image: Supplied The allure of world-famous destinations is gradually fading as thoughtful travel frameworks gain traction among contemporary explorers. In an era marked by the phenomenon of 'the joy of missing out', or JOMO, a significant shift in travel philosophy is emerging. No longer do tourists clamber for the perfect selfie in front of the Eiffel Tower or jostle for prime viewing spots at Santorini's idyllic sunsets. A revealing 2025 survey has shown that over 75% of travellers are voicing genuine concerns about overtourism, signalling a broader call for the industry to evolve. According to an analysis by McKinsey & Company, an astonishing 80% of tourists flock to a mere 10% of the world's iconic attractions. This staggering statistic not only illustrates the challenge of overcrowding but also suggests a detrimental impact on both travel experiences and the sustainability of local ecosystems and communities. Travel experts, including Antoinette Turner, general manager of Flight Centre South Africa, have observed a paradigm shift in customer mindsets. She notes that travellers now seek opportunities for deeper, more meaningful engagements rather than superficial checklists of destinations. 'Today's travellers are increasingly moving away from merely ticking destinations off a list - they crave immersive experiences that resonate on an emotional level,' says Turner. 'The rise of JOMO places emphasis on enjoying fewer activities with greater significance.' Here are some insights on the emerging travel trend, according to the expert: Changing travellers' mindsets A fundamental shift in traveller psychology has emerged in the wake of prolonged lockdowns, prompting a collective reassessment of what constitutes a fulfilling getaway. Instead of racing through packed itineraries filled with "must-sees," today's adventurers prioritise quality over quantity: taking the time to savour every moment without the pressure to capture social media stunners. Long stays or slow travel experiences, such as residing in a Tuscan farmhouse for a month or taking a scenic train journey through the Scottish Highlands, are fast becoming the preferred method of exploration as travellers immerse themselves in local culture. Moreover, the digital detox imperative reflects how today's journeys are evolving. In an era where experiences can easily dissolve into online content, more travellers are opting to disconnect from their devices to fully engage with their surroundings. 'People are not only reconsidering their travel destinations, but also transforming how they experience travel overall,' Turner adds. 'There's a longing for reconnection, whether it's to nature, culture, or even oneself.' A couple with a baby crossing a river during a hike and avoiding tourists traps while enjoying the benefits of slow travel. Image: Supplied Video Player is loading. Play Video Play Unmute Current Time 0:00 / Duration -:- Loaded : 0% Stream Type LIVE Seek to live, currently behind live LIVE Remaining Time - 0:00 This is a modal window. Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window. Text Color White Black Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Background Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Transparent Window Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Transparent Semi-Transparent Opaque Font Size 50% 75% 100% 125% 150% 175% 200% 300% 400% Text Edge Style None Raised Depressed Uniform Dropshadow Font Family Proportional Sans-Serif Monospace Sans-Serif Proportional Serif Monospace Serif Casual Script Small Caps Reset restore all settings to the default values Done Close Modal Dialog End of dialog window. Advertisement Next Stay Close ✕
