Latest news with #FlightCentreSouthAfrica
IOL News
27-05-2025
- 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.
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.
IOL News
16-05-2025
- IOL News
Visa woes no more: an essential guide to smooth travels for South Africans
A South African passport, also called the Green Mamba, is an important document folr travellers applying for visas to travel. Recent statistics from the US International Trade Administration further underline this anxiety, revealing a nearly 10% decline in international air visitors to the States in March alone, compared to last year. With diplomatic relations between the US and South Africa currently under strain, even valid visa holders are questioning their welcome in America. As South Africans eye international travel, particularly to the United States, apprehensions about visa-related issues are mounting. This cultural and economic shift has put traveller confidence in a precarious position, as having a visa does not guarantee entry. Lynette Machiri, customer experience leader at Flight Centre South Africa, emphasises that 'Customs and Border Protection officers make the final call at the airport.' Machiri says this assertion rings true not only for the US but for every global destination. She notes that the onus is on travellers to ensure that they meticulously prepare their documentation and understand travel requirements. Here are essential dos and don'ts to navigate visa travel, according to Machiri. Dos of visa travel Double-check personal information and ensure consistency across all documents. Select the right visa type and tailor the visa application to your purpose of travel to avoid complications. Prepare detailed documentation and have a clear record of your travel plans, including confirmed accommodation and return tickets when required. Provide proof of funds while being ready to show evidence of finances to support your stay. Allocate time for visa processing, including preparing ahead, taking into account varying processing times. Disclose previous visa refusals as transparency in your visa application may prevent future complications. Consider flexible travel fares and book flexible or unrestricted flights, accommodating potential visa delays. Invest in comprehensive travel insurance and make sure the policy covers various contingencies; read the terms carefully. Seek professional advice so a knowledgeable travel advisor can streamline the process and provide targeted support. Be prepared to explain your travel purpose, as providing clear and consistent communication with border officials is crucial. Keep hard and digital copies of documents and ensure easy access to important papers during travel. Don'ts of visa travel Don't apply for the wrong visa type, and avoid tourist visas if your visit involves work, study, or other business-related activities. Don't assume a transit visa is unnecessary. Check if a visa is required, even for airport layovers. Avoid travelling with near-expiring documents. Ensure your passport has at least six months' validity beyond your departure date. Do not provide vague answers. Be specific and consistent in your explanations to border control. Don't rush the visa application process. Patience can prevent errors that lead to denial. Don't believe a visa guarantees entry. It only authorises you to apply for entry; the final decision rests with immigration officials. Don't neglect the fine print of insurance. Understand what your travel insurance covers and excludes. Avoid last-minute visa appointments and plan accordingly to secure timely application submissions. Don't travel without hard copies. Always have printed versions of relevant documents readily accessible. Lastly, Machiri notes that being informed and prepared are essential steps to ensuring a smooth passage through immigration. "The majority of international travellers navigate the process without incident, with the right precautions and diligent preparation playing pivotal roles," she says.
IOL News
08-05-2025
- IOL News
Golden Years to Gap Years: Every Age Deserves Travel Time
Retirement, for millions of South Africans, doesn't mean slowing down. Rather, it means finally going everywhere they didn't have time for. If you think retirement is all about slippers, Sudoku, and staying home with a cup of rooibos, it's time for a total rethink. Retirement, for millions of South Africans, doesn't mean slowing down. Rather, it means finally going everywhere they didn't have time for. Globally, around 37% of all travellers in 2024 were aged 60+, with retirees spending between 5% to 10% of their annual budgets on travel. Retirees are now one of the most powerful segments transforming the tourism industry as we know it. 'Today's over-50s are seasoned, self-assured, and often very well-travelled,' says Lynette Machiri, Customer Experience Leader at Flight Centre South Africa. 'They're not chasing checklists of tourist spots. They want soul-filling journeys. They're savvier about their time, money and energy – and travel is something they're deeply intentional about.' Retirees have the upper hand. Think about it: You're no longer at the mercy of school schedules or limited leave days. You might have built-up savings or rental income. Your time, finally, is your own. According to Machiri, many of Flight Centre's most seasoned travellers are those who've recently retired or downsized their careers. 'They're free to travel midweek, book shoulder-season specials, and take longer trips. That flexibility makes a huge difference in both cost and experience.' But there's more to it than logistics. The emotional and mental benefits of travel at this stage of life are deeply valuable: It reignites your sense of identity and adventure post-career. It provides precious opportunities for connection – whether it's couples rediscovering intimacy or grandparents travelling with grandchildren. It keeps your brain agile, your senses stimulated, and your spirit young. Machiri adds: 'We're seeing more multigenerational trips than ever before. Families want to create memories while they can. A trip to Mauritius can be more bonding than a dozen Sunday lunches. That kind of time is priceless.'
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 ✕
