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The Independent
3 days ago
- General
- The Independent
We're travel experts — these are our top tips for getting around the six busiest airports in the US
They're the six busiest airports in the US — and massive, too, with the largest one three-fourths as big as Washington, DC. And that means navigating them can be daunting, even for frequent fliers. Luckily, help has touched down. Here, travel experts who know these airports like the back of their neck pillows dispense their top tips for getting around the hubs and reveal the best places to relax before a flight. There are the zen-like walkable tunnels at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta, the crucial train to take at Dallas airport, the location of the "shockingly underused" fire pit patio at Denver, the amazing yoga room at Chicago O'Hare, the VIP terminal at LAX and the incredible hotel pool with runway views at JFK. Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport — 108 million passengers annually Getting around Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta (ATL) is "like Grand Central on steroids", according to Georgia Fowkes, a travel advisor for Altezza Travel. "It's the busiest airport in the world and you feel it the second you land," she continues. "Everything is moving, people are rushing, and you're just dropped in the epicenter. "Delta runs the show here and something like 80 percent of passengers are connecting through ATL, which makes it a constant stream of movement." With this in mind, it's best to arrive in good time. Scarlett Martin, Assistant Manager of Flight Centre UK's Horsham Store, tells The Independent: "Security lines at ATL can take a while, so I'd always err on the side of caution and arrive three hours before your flight." ATL is laid out in a fishbone shape with two terminals as the head and tail, a domestic terminal and the Maynard H. Jackson Jr. International Terminal, seven concourses denoted by the letters A, B, C, D, E, F and T; and 193 gates. International flights are served by concourses E, F and, to a lesser extent, T. Georgia, from Pittsburgh, notes that "navigation is straightforward, with the terminals all lined up", and adds that the Plane Train "connects them fast". But she warns that it's "always packed". "I've got a love-hate thing with it," she tells The Independent. "I only use it if I have a heavy bag or I'm late. "Otherwise, I walk the tunnels. They're quiet, with soft lights and art installations. Honestly, it feels like airport therapy. It might seem like a hassle, but after 14 hours of travel, the quiet and motion are exactly what I need." Where to relax Scarlett says that travelers might find Concourse T, which is closest to the main entrance, too crowded. Instead, she suggests heading to Concourse D and the brand-new soccer-pitch-sized Delta Sky Club (if you have eligibility), the eighth in Delta's lounge portfolio at Atlanta. She reveals: "This spacious lounge offers seating for over 500 guests, with panoramic airfield views. The buffet-style food is excellent, offering both hot and cold options and clearly labelled allergens — something I took great comfort in as I suffer from a peanut allergy. "The coffee from the machine is surprisingly good too — not like the typical sludge-like liquid that you can expect from airports." For Claire Baker, Head of Customer Experience at luxury travel concierge company Winged Boots, it's Concourse B that offers the best spot to relax. She says: "I always recommend booking a private pod at Minute Suites in Concourse B. "It's perfect for a pre-flight nap or a quiet space to work or relax." Georgia's go-to quiet zone is near Atlanta Chophouse in the food court before Concourse A. She reveals: "There are wall-side tables and outlets. When I've got work calls, I go there." Where to eat One Flew South on Concourse E is Claire's top spot for a bite to eat. She says: "One Flew South is an absolute must for upscale sushi and southern fusion cuisine." Getting out The best exit strategy? Georgia has a tip up her sleeve for those with carry-on luggage only. She reveals: "If I'm traveling with just a carry-on, I exit through Concourse F. It's cleaner, emptier, and my Uber arrives in three minutes flat. One catch: you can't do this if you've checked a bag." Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport — 87 million annual passengers Getting around Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport (DFW) is a behemoth measuring 27 square miles – that's larger than the land area of Manhattan and five-and-a-half times as big as London Heathrow, Europe's busiest hub. So pay close attention to Georgia's tips for navigating it. She tells The Independent: "DFW is a literal city. One of the largest airports in the US by area, with five terminals [A, B, C, D, and E] arranged like flower petals. "It's easy to get lost if you're not paying attention. "Skylink is the internal lifeline — a train that loops inside security. It's fast and honestly a lifesaver. "Terminal Link is its less helpful cousin — the outside bus. It's for folks who haven't cleared security or who've exited already. It's slow, confusing, and I avoid it." Are you always running late? Then you'll need to up your punctuality game at DFW because tardiness is a risky business there. Georgia explains: "You absolutely need extra time to get between terminals. DFW looks compact on the map, but you might spend 15 minutes just riding Skylink. "Even if the gate looks close, I don't risk it. I always buffer time. It cuts down my panic level by at least 80 percent." Georgia also urges fliers to use the official DFW app to help with orientation and to find useful features. She reveals: "It shows wait times, terminal maps, even where the bathrooms are. Sounds small, but it helps more than you'd think." Where to relax Georgia reveals that when she's got time to kill, she'll drift over to Terminal D. She explains: "It's quieter, more spacious, nice food and shops. Even if I'm flying out of B, I'll sometimes head to D just to relax or get work done." Gilbert Ott, frequent flier and Founder of travel site recommends the Capital One lounge in Terminal D. He tells The Independent: "The Capital One lounge here basically invented lounge grab and go, so even if you're pressed for time, cardmembers can get a nice latte and some quality snacks for the flight." Claire, on the other hand, reveals that her top pick for relaxation is the Centurion Lounge by Amex. She says: "[It's] a great spot to freshen up before your flight and serves fantastic Tex-Mex food. Finally, if you've got time, I'd recommend visiting the Founder's Plaza, an open-air observation area just outside the airport." Denver International Airport — 82 million annual passengers Getting around You'll need your wits about you at Denver International Airport (DIA), which is the biggest airport in the US at 54 square miles. Or three-fourths as big as Washington, DC. Denver-based frequent flyer Angela Berardino from The Brouhaha Collective travel PR firm flies out of DIA about 30 times a year, and points out that the airport has been undergoing a major renovation for the past two years, "with more to come". The result? Navigation is even trickier for the uninitiated. She says: "If you are an infrequent flyer, plan ahead because signage and construction is confusing." Georgia agrees, saying: "It's beautiful, but chaotic. From the outside, you've got those iconic mountain-peak roofs. Inside — a confusing experience. Navigation isn't intuitive." Your first step? Check DIA's website for security wait times, advises Angela, who adds that they're shown in real time. "I check every time," she says. Then, ensure you arrive at the correct part of the airport for the security lane you'll be using. Angela explains: "In most airports, the lines for regular TSA, TSA Pre-Check, and CLEAR [a biometric ID verification service] are adjacent, but at DIA, they're in different locations, and the airport is massive, so if you get dropped off at the wrong place, you may need to walk 10 to 15 minutes to find your line. The airport's explanation for how it works is here - It's best, says Angela, to use the "DEN Reserve" system and pre-book a free security slot in the dedicated lane at West Security (5am-5pm). Angela says: "Pick a time online up to three days out, show the QR code, glide through." And if you don't book a slot? "The only stress-free strategy is to show up earlier than feels reasonable," says Georgia. "Seriously. No exceptions. Security is the real villain here." Once you're through, the only way to reach your concourse is via the AGTS (Automated Guideway Transit System) train. "It runs every two minutes and gets you to your concourse with minimal drama," says Georgia. But she walks when possible, adding: "There's also a pedestrian bridge to Concourse A — the only part of the airport you can walk to. "I take it when I can. It's calm, you can see the Rockies, and it gives me a second to breathe before boarding." Where to relax Angela recommends the new outdoor decks with fire pits at Concourse B. She says: "They are shockingly underused. Grab a beverage, charge your phone in the sunshine, and watch the jets with actual Colorado air in your lungs." Another of her picks is in Concourse C. She says: "Duck past the seated diners to the rear bar at Root Down. Order food and craft cocktails to go — no wait list, no up‑charge. They do Denver farm‑to‑gate goodness in a compostable box." And while she's not tried it yet, the newly opened Williams & Graham speakeasy near gate A38 "is getting rave reviews". Chicago O'Hare International Airport — 80 million annual passengers Getting around "A layover marathon." That's how Georgia describes Chicago O'Hare, which has four active terminals with nine concourses. But she has a few tips to make getting around it less of a slog. She says: "The terminals are numbered 1, 2, 3, and 5. Yes, there's no 4. There was a temporary terminal 4, but it was shut down after terminal 5 was built, and this terminal was not renumbered to avoid breaking airport systems. "Terminals 1 through 3 are connected, so that part is easy. "A whole different game is T5, for international flights. "To get there, you'll need to leave security, hop on the ATS train, and hope you've got time." Claire Baker tells The Independent that at O'Hare, it's "worth reserving a fast lane pass in Terminal 5 to speed through security and avoid the long queues". Where to relax Claire recommends decompressing in the yoga room on the mezzanine level of Terminal 3's rotunda. She says: "Here, travelers can take guided yoga sessions, perfect for unwinding and escaping the airport rush ahead of flying." There are also "Mother's Rooms" and "Mamava pods" throughout the terminals that provide calming environments for nursing parents, the airport itself points out. These spaces include comfortable seating, changing tables, sinks, electrical outlets, and soft lighting. The airport continues: "Travelers who appreciate good views while they wait should explore the breezeway seating across from the American Airlines Flagship Lounge in Terminal 3, or stop by the bridge between Concourses G and H to watch aircraft taxi and take off from the American Airlines ramp. "Another excellent vantage point can be found at Gate E1 in Terminal 2, right by the family lounge, which offers a sweeping view of the United Airlines fleet and runway operations." Where to eat The airport tells The Independent that the L Stinger — consisting of the eight gates at the far end of Concourse L —is home to the Burger Federation, "which offers top-ranked burgers". The airport continues: "For those who prefer to slow down with a sit-down meal before a flight, O'Hare has a few reliable go-to spots. Berghoff Café in Concourse C, Tuscany in Concourse B, and Romano's Macaroni Grill near the H and K gates are all popular with frequent travelers, and all offer full-service dining in comfortable settings. Terminal 5 travelers can also enjoy well-regarded local restaurants like Bar Siena and The Hampton Social." The airport reveals that you can also order meals ahead of time using the Grab app and the Farmer's Fridge app. And for those in need of a convenient coffee, the airport brewed up this hack: "Order your coffee from a vendor past the TSA checkpoint before you go through security, where it will be ready for pickup on the other side once you clear screening. Additionally, all O'Hare Starbucks locations offer mobile ordering through the Starbucks app, making it especially easy to time your caffeine fix just right." Los Angeles International Airport — 76 million passengers Getting around Georgia remarks that "Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) and 'stress-free' don't belong in the same sentence". "But I've got a few moves," she says. "It's old, bloated, always under construction. Nine terminals shaped like a horseshoe, with constant detours and endless people. But the biggest pain is not inside. It's outside. Getting in and out is the real quest. "LAX-it — the Uber/Lyft pickup zone — is in a completely separate area. You have to take a shuttle. Don't try to walk there with luggage, even if it seems close. Trust me, it turns into a sweaty, three-stage odyssey real fast." So, how best to move between terminals? Georgia says: "If I need to move between terminals, I use the free Route A shuttle. But if you exit security, you'll have to go through TSA again. "That's why I always check which terminals are connected inside the secure zone. It saves both time and sanity. For example, Terminals 4 and 5 have an internal walkway —no need to exit. Small thing, huge difference." Where to relax Gilbert Ott suggests setting your sights on the new Delta One check-in, "which has private security and leads directly into the lounge, offering one of the best departure experiences in the US". He continues: "The Sky Club —Delta lounge — has amazing tarmac views with an outdoor terrace, too. People forget that you can walk between most terminals at LAX, so it's easy to lounge hop around." Claire recommends "indulging pre-flight at Petrossian Caviar & Champagne Bar" and for an "ultra-exclusive experience", book PS (The Private Suite), located in a private terminal". This, she notes, offers travelers access to luxury spaces, private TSA and customs clearance, and a white-glove escort straight to their flight. John F. Kennedy International Airport — 38 million annual passengers Getting around Claire Baker stresses that to avoid stress at JFK "be sure to download the MyTSA and JFK Airport apps for important real-time updates and terminal maps". She adds: "They're a huge lifesaver at such a busy airport." Gilbert adds: "Don't forget that TSA PreCheck officially closes after 8pm on most days, so if you have a late-night flight, factor that in." Want to leave in style? Gilbert suggests the Blade helicopter transfer service, which offers rides into NYC from $195 (down to $150pp) with a promo code, "so you can get from Manhattan to the airport, or vice versa, in seven minutes". The bucket list place to relax is the TWA Hotel, which is unique. Claire describes it as "a must", and no wonder. The rooftop infinity pool offers those splashing around a view of the ever-busy Runway 4 Left/22 Right and Jamaica Bay beyond. Not fussed about plane-spotting? You'll surely admire the TWA logo mosaic on the bottom of the pool.
IOL News
5 days ago
- IOL News
Savvy senior explorers: how to make your travel dreams a reality on a budget
A senior couple travelling together and enjoying views of the ocean. South Africans are closely following this trend, with 32% indicating similar intentions. According to Flight Centre's recent Global PR Survey, which surveyed participants from South Africa , Canada, the US, the UK, Australia, and New Zealand, one in three travellers aged 60 and above plan to use a portion of their retirement savings to fund holidays in 2025. Travellers, both young and old, are always seeking ways to budget and save for their journeys. After decades of hard work, raising families, and navigating life's challenges, mature travellers are eager to fulfil their once-in-a-lifetime travel dreams. However, there are numerous ways pensioners can travel without dipping into their retirement savings or overspending on experiences. 'Travel shouldn't come with guilt,' says Sue Garrett, general manager of Supply, Pricing & Marketing at Flight Centre South Africa. She highlights that today's over-60s are embracing the present while still recognising the importance of planning for the future. With careful planning and a thoughtful approach, seniors can discover the world while safeguarding their finances. Garrett shares a few tips on how over-60s can fulfil their travel dreams without breaking the bank. Budgeting for travel dreams 'If travel is a non-negotiable part of your retirement lifestyle, then treat it as such,' Garrett advises. Understanding that travel is part of the 'wants' category of retirement budgeting is crucial; many retirees are wisely earmarking 5–10% of their annual budget specifically for travel. Garrett recommends constructing your travel goals into a monthly plan, allowing your wanderlust to be part of your fiscal strategy. Creating memories, not financial guilt Surprisingly, nearly one in ten seniors are contemplating using their children's or grandchildren's inheritance to fund their travel dreams. Yet, South Africans appear more prudent, with only 3% embracing this idea. Instead, 25% of respondents welcome the idea of multi-generational vacations funded by their families, embracing travel as a means of connection and joy rather than a financial burden. Bundling for savings One of the key strategies to enjoy travel without splurging is bundling. By grouping flights, tours, and accommodation, travellers can unlock remarkable savings. Garrett emphasises that this approach simplifies the planning process while eliminating hidden costs, ultimately providing better value. 'It's a better value across the board,' she explains. Flexibility is your ally Flexibility can be a game-changer. Travelling during shoulder or off-peak seasons not only lowers costs but also offers a more enjoyable experience without the crowds. As Garrett notes, 'Flexibility is one of the biggest financial advantages retirees possess.' With fewer restrictions tied to working schedules, seniors can seize the opportunity to find better deals.
Travel Weekly
21-05-2025
- Business
- Travel Weekly
Flight Centre rebrands Liberty Travel as Envoyage to unify U.S. leisure operations
Flight Centre Travel Group is rebranding Liberty Travel as Envoyage, consolidating its U.S. leisure operations under a single global brand. Liberty Travel will now be integrated into Envoyage, a brand that Flight Centre launched last year to unify roughly 1,400 independent contractors from Independent by Liberty Travel, Independent by Flight Centre, Travel Managers, Travel Associates at Home, Flight Centre Independent and Travel Partners. According to Flight Centre, the Envoyage network has since grown to 2,500 members across the U.S., Canada, Australia, New Zealand and South Africa. In the U.S., Envoyage said it has nearly doubled membership numbers and sales volume since its February 2024 debut. At the time of the network's launch, Envoyage executive vice president and general manager Christina Pedroni said the Envoyage model is designed for experienced advisors selling more than $250,000 a year. Both its IC and agency tiers carry monthly fees, with commission splits ranging from 70% to 90% for ICs and accredited agencies receiving 100% commission. "Through extensive market research conducted in the U.S. and across our global markets, the message from consumers and the industry alike is clear: Envoyage is a desirable, aspirational brand," said Danielle Galloway, global managing director of luxury and independent brands at Flight Centre Travel Group. With the rebranding, Flight Centre said it plans to leverage Liberty Travel's extensive customer database and digital assets to extend Envoyage's reach beyond Liberty Travel's traditional Northeastern U.S. stronghold. Flight Centre added that Envoyage advisors will benefit from an integrated consumer marketing campaign and lead-generation service. Liberty Travel closed most of its storefronts during the pandemic. Today, most Liberty Travel advisors work remotely. According to Liberty's website, some advisors work in Flight Centre's U.S. corporate headquarters in Montvale, N.J. The Liberty Travel rebranding comes amid Flight Centre's decision to ramp up its focus on luxury travel and independent contractors, which the company has identified as high-growth sectors. Early last year, Flight Centre shuttered its Gogo Vacations wholesaler business, which it acquired alongside Liberty Travel in 2007. The closure came as Flight Centre said the wholesale model had been "struggling in recent years" with "high costs of maintaining this brand" becoming increasingly difficult to justify, said Charlene Leiss, Flight Centre president of the Americas. The company has also expanded the U.S. leadership team for high-end tour operator Scott Dunn, which it acquired in 2023. Scott Dunn opened its first New York City office last year.
NZ Herald
19-05-2025
- NZ Herald
Top 5 travel deals: Fiji eco resort, European tour, luxury cruises
Discover ancient cultures and history Experience Portugal, Spain and Morocco with Cosmos. Highlights of this 16-day tour include Avila, with its ancient, fortified towers and walls, on the way to Portugal. Cross the Strait of Gibraltar to Morocco on the African continent to step back in time in Rabat, and explore Medina, a colourful maze of streets with the lively bazaar and exotic palaces dating back to the 13th-14th centuries. Book with Flight Centre to save up to $500 per person. From $4555 pp, this deal is on sale until June 1, 2025. Departs Madrid November 15, 2025. Airfares and transfers are additional. Booking fee applies. Book now at or call 0800 427 555. Time for a staycation Make the most of King's Birthday weekend and treat yourself to a Sherwood Suite. A one-bedroom apartment with a queen bed and optional two single day beds in a refurbished room with a kitchenette, 'the woods' all-natural bathroom amenities, limited edition artworks, and fast wifi. It's the perfect spot for a romantic getaway or family adventure. Fill your days with daily yoga classes, book a massage, or relax in the sauna, and take a restorative break without leaving the hotel. Even better, time your stay to attend the Autumn Fireside Feast with Chefs Chris Scott and Michael Meredith on Friday, May 30, for a one-night-only pop-up event celebrating the best seasonal flavours. Use the code ROYAL25 for 25% off the Best Flexible Rate for Sherwood Suite bookings May 28 to June 5. The code is valid until May 30 via Terms and conditions apply. Hop on a month-long cruise Need a break? Hop aboard the Crown Princess for 35 days on a round trip from Auckland. Enjoy the first leg of your cruise in Australia with visits to Sydney and Brisbane. Experience the tropical charm of Fiji and Western Samoa with call-ins to Suva and Apia. Swim to your heart's content with five full days in Hawaii visiting Honolulu, Kauai, Kahului, Hilo, and Kona. Conclude your trip by exploring the natural beauties of French Polynesia with stops in Tahiti and Moorea. Snorkel, surf, swim, and relax on the seaside with Princess Cruises. Priced from $7,693 per person, share twin for a Princess Standard fare, which includes standard dining, accommodation, and entertainment. Flights are additional. Cruise departs Auckland, New Zealand, on Saturday, August 29, 2026. Prices are subject to change. Visit or call 0800 780 717 to book and for up-to-date pricing. Up to 50% savings on Regent Seven Seas Cruises Regent Seven Seas Cruises is offering 30% to 50% off select voyages booked by June 30, 2025. The mid-season savings promotion includes up to 75 sailings in 2025 and 2026, featuring culinary and wine-themed journeys and close-to-home options. One highlight is the Spotlight on Cuisine sailing with Michelin-starred Chef Alain Roux, where the Culinary Arts Kitchen becomes his private cooking school. This 12-night voyage on Seven Seas Splendor departs from Athens to Barcelona on August 11, 2025 and includes up to 75 shore excursions. The Deluxe Veranda Suite is now $11,935 pp, saving over $5,000 pp. Book before June 30, 2025, via
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.
