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Travel News South Africa

5 reasons why now is the best time to travel

After another whirlwind year has left us juggling work, social distancing and staying sane, everyone deserves a holiday. We have spent the majority of the year under strict lockdown regulations, but the country is slowly starting to open up again. With the vaccination drive gaining more momentum as registrations opened for 18 - 35-year olds, a sense of optimism is in the air. Still looking for a reason to book that well-deserved holiday? Read on for five reasons why you should be dusting off your passport.

Affordable travel is on the rise 

The rise of the budget-conscious traveller has opened up the door to very interesting experiences as you explore. Gone are the days where you need to spend exorbitant amounts of money just to travel beyond your city. Whether it’s a staycation, a beach getaway, or a long-haul trip you’ve been wanting to do for ages, travel has become more accessible with tools to help you find a holiday fit for your budget.

Image: Supplied
Image: Supplied

Local destinations are becoming more accessible

Kruger Shalati: The Train on the Bridge, is one of SA’s most luxurious hotels. And they often run a number of specials for local travellers. It’s a bucket-list type of destination and definitely one to book if you’re keen on going big for that year-end getaway. If going all the way to the Kruger National Park seems a bit far for you, then look into local hotel specials. Radisson RED Rosebank recently opened its doors in Johannesburg and they have some room specials at the moment. If a family break is more your thing, then Radisson Blu Hotel Waterfront is worth a look. This ocean-side hotel is perfect for the young and young-at-heart with a host of activities for the whole family.

Image: Supplied
Image: Supplied

Booking ahead can save you money 

Even though some airlines do flash sales from time to time, it’s best to bet on booking in advance. You are more likely to find affordable prices by checking your flights and accommodation ahead of time. With many hotels, you could even score free cancellation or other specials if you confirm ahead of time. Still not sure you want to commit too early? Use websites like Cheapflights to track flights. You will be able to see when there are lower fares available for your preferred destination.

Image: Supplied
Image: Supplied

An increase in travel demand means flights should be booked in advance 

As regulations around travel start lifting more, demand will increase. The added assurance of vaccinations will also have people more confident and likely to start planning getaways. Some may start booking flights for holidays in the new year. It’s always been a good idea to plan your trip well in advance, but even more so with people itching to dust off their passports again. As soon as you are able to, make sure to book your flight!

Image: Supplied
Image: Supplied

International travel is slowly opening up again 

With the borders opening up to South Africans, there may be a large increase in demand to book flights ahead of the holiday season. Over the last month, countries like Germany, Mauritius and Dubai announced varying degrees of reopening to South Africans. Other destinations like the Maldives are even offering vaccination holidays, where visitors can get ‘jabbed’ while on their island holiday. Some are opening their borders to vaccinated South Africans, and some are increasing their flight capacity between countries. What this may mean is that people will start booking their holidays well in advance.

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