Johannesburg – If you want to know where South African business is being done in 2026, just take a look at Corporate Traveller’s booking data. One of South Africa’s leading travel management companies (TMCs) for small- to medium-sized businesses, their top four international destinations have remained the same for the past three years: Zambia, Tanzania, Kenya and the United Kingdom.

And although there’s been some jostling for position, they’ve consistently dominated the top of the table. Three African neighbours and one long-haul anchor – each with compelling reasons to stay a little longer.

Bleisure still firmly on the agenda

Yes, flights will cost you more this year. Middle East airspace disruption is in partial recovery – Emirates announced on 4 May that it had restored 96% of its global network – but the knock-on effects remain. Rerouted long-haul flights are running between two and five hours longer than pre-crisis on many routes, and the price of jet fuel has more than doubled over the past month.

The cumulative effect is simple. Getting your people to a meeting in Lusaka or London now costs much more – be it in money, hours or traveller fatigue – than it did a few weeks ago. Which is precisely why bleisure is about to look a lot more attractive to South African business travellers, and a lot more sensible to the people approving their trips.

As Herman Heunes, GM of Corporate Traveller, explains, the smart play is to make every flight count for more.

“We’re seeing clients batch their meetings, sequence their itineraries more carefully and build in incentive opportunities, where you combine business and leisure,” says Heunes. “If you’ve already paid for the flight, the carbon and the time away, you may as well get more out of being there.”

That “more” is increasingly bleisure – the practice of tacking a few personal leisure days onto a business trip – and the data shows it has crossed firmly from perk into policy.

The Global Business Travel Association’s Industry Outlook poll, published in October last year, found that 43% of corporate travel programmes now have defined bleisure policies, with 71% of buyers citing improved employee satisfaction. Research from Skift puts the figure even higher: 60% of business travellers took a blended trip in 2024.

There’s a retention story underneath those numbers too. International research consistently shows that employees who travel for work are more likely to stay with their employer, with the figure climbing to over 75% among Gen Z. For SMEs that can’t match multinational salaries, a thoughtful bleisure policy is one of the highest-leverage, lowest-cost levers available, even in the face of cost pressures.

Planning a trip?

Zambia, which has held Corporate Traveller’s number-one spot for three years running, is at its most spectacular right now. Victoria Falls is at near-peak flow following the rains, and the Lower Zambezi and South Luangwa camps are reopening for the dry season. A Lusaka meeting could extend into a Livingstone weekend, and May to June is a shoulder window with rates noticeably softer than the July-to-September peak. For seriously memorable incentives consider a Victoria Falls sunset cruise, a private bush walk or a game drive in Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park.

Short on time? Lusaka itself rewards a single free day: a guided tour through the Kabwata Cultural Village for handwoven crafts and traditional Nyama Choma, the Lusaka National Museum for a feel for the country’s history, and a short drive out to the Lilayi Elephant Nursery to watch orphaned calves at feeding time.

Tanzania is similarly well-timed. The Great Migration is moving through the central and western Serengeti, with herds heading towards the Grumeti River crossings in June – a less-photographed but equally dramatic counterpart to the Mara crossings later in the year. Travellers in Dar es Salaam or Arusha can extend into a three-night Serengeti add-on, or build in a Zanzibar weekend if the calendar, commitments and budget allow.

A day to spare? Catch a boat from Dar’s famous Slipway to Bongoyo or Mbudya Island for white sand and snorkelling or stay on the mainland for the colourful chaos of Kariakoo Market, grilled octopus and live music on Coco Beach, and an evening of Swahili seafood somewhere on the waterfront.

Kenya is in a similar rhythm. The long rains are tapering, and the Maasai Mara is in its build-up to the river crossings that begin in earnest in July. The Great Migration remains a bucket-list trip for many – and incentive or reward like no other.

A gap in your itinerary?

Nairobi rewards the time generously. A half-day safari in Nairobi National Park puts lions and rhino within sight of the city skyline, while the Giraffe Centre and Karen Blixen Museum make for an easy afternoon in the leafy Karen suburb. For those with a free weekend, a 4×4 transfer down the Rift Valley delivers cycling and boating at Hell’s Gate and Lake Naivasha – or, with a single short flight from Wilson, the Maasai Mara itself.

And then there’s the United Kingdom, which offers what is arguably the most obvious bleisure or incentive opportunity: Wimbledon, running 29 June to 12 July. For travellers with London meetings in late June or early July, it’s the easiest extension on the calendar. The public ballot has closed, but hospitality routes and Debenture options remain available, and the queue system still allows same-day ground passes for those happy to queue (and soak up the atmosphere). Beyond the tennis, London in the summer is hard to beat: think long days, Thames cruises, pub lunches, Kew Gardens, shopping and more.

With flight costs and traveller fatigue both climbing, a smart bleisure or incentive add-on is one of the easiest ways to stretch the value of a trip your team is already taking: a thank-you that doubles as a productivity boost, and a chance for your people to see Africa and London in a light no boardroom ever offers. It pays, though, to do it properly. Heunes says a good TMC will help you design itineraries that work, negotiate the right rates and, importantly, build in the duty-of-care considerations required. “The trip is already happening,” says Heunes. “Chat to your TMC about making it an unforgettable one, even in the current climate.”

I sat on a panel at WTM Africa this week titled “Skills 2030: The Tourism Jobs That Don’t Exist Yet But Should.” It is a provocative title and it sparked a conversation I want to be honest about, because I don’t think we say it loudly enough in this industry. We are not ready.

South Africa’s tourism sector contributes nine percent to GDP. Two million jobs directly and indirectly. Eleven million arrivals in 2025. Seventy five percent of those from the African continent itself. By any measure this is a sector of enormous consequence to this country. Yet when I look at how we are preparing our people for the next four years I find myself genuinely concerned.

Three weeks ago I was at ITB in Berlin. I stayed at a full service, deluxe, 220 bedroom Courtyard by Marriott in the heart of the city. I asked how many permanent staff they employed. Eleven. Eleven permanent people running that entire property. They outsource maintenance. They outsource aspects of housekeeping. They have had absolutely no choice but to completely reimagine what a hotel operation looks like because Europe is in the grip of an acute staffing shortage that forces their hand every single day.

Now come back to South Africa. We have a steady labour supply. Relatively low minimum wages. A hospitality industry that frankly remains pretty poor paying in proportion to other sectors. Because of all of that we have not been forced to adapt the way our European counterparts have been forced to adapt. We have been comfortable. That comfort is building a skills crisis beneath the surface that is going to catch a lot of us off guard.

Our hotel schools, learnerships and many accredited institutions are doing what they have done for the last twenty years. Producing a steady supply of waiters, receptionists and barmen. I am not dismissing those roles. For 2030 we need something different though. We need people who are hybrid, technical and human simultaneously. People with soft skills, genuine commercial understanding and leadership capability. As an industry we are guilty. Guilty of not adopting, not training and not investing nearly enough in the futures of the young people coming through our ranks.

So what does 2030 actually look like in terms of the roles we need to prepare for in hospitality?

I don’t believe every hotel needs a permanent AI specialist sitting on their payroll. What I do believe is that AI consultancies are going to do very well indeed contracting with hotels, independents and BnBs, coming in and conducting proper AI audits. Taking honest stock of where a business actually is versus where it thinks it is. Most of us would be quite frightened by what that audit reveals.

The second role I think is coming whether we are ready for it or not is the sustainability manager at hotel level, or at least on a nodal level. The EU compliance requirements are already knocking on the door of any operator who wants the big European tour operators sending business their way. Dedicated sustainability roles embedded in our properties are coming. People working across community engagement, water and electricity management, feeding back into the grid, bridging the gap between the business and the environment it operates in. That is a real job and a critically important job. Right now we are training nobody for it.

Here is the thing I feel most strongly about though. We have created a generation of office jockey General Managers. Our GMs are drowning in data that needs to be engineered, analysed, compiled and sent upward through layers of corporate reporting. It is keeping brilliant, passionate, hospitality-born people trapped behind desks when they should be out on the floor.

“Management by Walking Around”, which should be the most fundamental instinct of any hotelier, has been slowly strangled by administrative burden that technology should already be handling for us. By 2030 there will be no excuse. The data engineering, the reporting, the analysis is by and large automated. When that happens our General Managers get to go back to doing what they came into this industry to do.

That is what 2030 looks like to me. Not robots replacing people. A General Manager back in the lobby where they belong.

Guy Stehlik is the Founder and CEO of BON Hotels and spoke on the panel “Skills 2030: The Tourism Jobs That Don’t Exist Yet But Should” at the WTM Africa 2026 Future Stage in Cape Town.

“In an industry where seasonal and informal employment remain the norm, this commitment reflects my long-held conviction that tourism businesses have a responsibility to provide employees with dignity and a sustainable livelihood,” commented Baba.

Ilios Safaris, registered by Baba in 2018 and retained under his sole ownership, launching on 1 May 2026 as an affordable private touring and transfer specialist, serving FIT travellers and small groups across five key South African destinations:

• Cape Town
• Johannesburg
• Kruger National Park
• Durban
• Port Elizabeth

The company launches with a staff complement of 35 and a fleet of SUVs and minivans. Additionally, Baba has established trade partnerships with Destination Management Companies servicing tour operators across the United Kingdom, Europe, Australia, and India.

Baba wishes to be unambiguous about the standing of this entity. Ilios Safaris Pty Ltd is a separate legal entity, registered by and continuously owned by Mohamed Baba since 2018. It has no operational, financial, or structural connection to any other business operating under a similar name within the sector.

A Deliberately Structured Three-Brand Group

The launch of Ilios Safaris completes a carefully considered portfolio of three distinct tourism brands, each serving a different tier of the inbound travel market:

• Travel Black: A five-star luxury chauffeured touring and transfer specialist. SATSA-accredited and operational from January 2026.
• AURUM Africa: A four-star premium, employee-owned touring company operational since July 2025, founded on the principle that the people who deliver unforgettable travel experiences should also share in the rewards of those experiences.
• Ilios Safaris: A three-star affordable private touring and transfer specialist, operational from 1 May 2026, built for the adventurous FIT traveller and small group seeking genuine, professionally delivered experiences at an accessible price point.

A Resource for the Industry

Alongside this announcement, Baba releases a free, downloadable publication for the South African tourism industry. It is a founder’s survival manual disguised as a business memoir, which draws on hard-won experience to offer practical guidance on deal structuring, asset protection, governance, and the importance of preparing for crisis before it arrives. It is offered free of charge to any industry peer who may benefit from it.

“I have learned difficult lessons over the course of my career. If sharing those lessons honestly can protect even one founder from going through what I went through, then offering this freely is the least I can do for this industry,” Baba concluded.

The publication will be available shortly. Industry peers wishing to be notified upon release are invited to contact Mohamed Baba directly at mohamed.baba@aurumafrica.co.za

For more information about Ilios Safaris contact clinton@iliossafaris.com

Qantas yesterday launched a new direct service between Johannesburg and Perth, operating three times weekly on Tuesdays, Fridays and Sundays. The new route reduces travel time to just 9 hours and 55 minutes – providing the quickest way for South Africans to reach Western Australia and beyond. 

The route, operated by a Qantas A330 aircraft, also offers convenient onward connections to Melbourne, Sydney, Brisbane, Adelaide and other destinations across Qantas’ extensive domestic network. Passengers travelling to New Zealand will also benefit from the airline’s new Perth-Auckland service, meaning South Africans can now reach family and friends in New Zealand with just one stop in Perth. 

Data from the Australian Bureau of Statistics’ latest census shows there are almost 45,000 people living in Western Australia who were born in South Africa – ranking South Africa as the fourth most common country of birth for Western Australians (after England, New Zealand and India). The significant South African diaspora, combined with strong business and trade ties between the two regions, reinforces the demand for direct connectivity. 

Qantas International CEO Cam Wallace says the new route is about strengthening ties between the two countries: 

“Today marks an important milestone as our inaugural direct service from Johannesburg to Perth takes to the skies, strengthening connectivity between South Africa and Western Australia.

“We’ve seen a really positive response since announcing the route in May, with the inaugural flight almost full and strong forward bookings.

“The new flights also make it easier for South Africans to visit Western Australia, reconnect with family and friends, or continue on to destinations across Australia through seamless connections to our domestic network.

“And with the launch of our new Perth – Auckland service, customers travelling from Johannesburg now have more options to reach New Zealand with just one stop.”

• Cam Wallace, CEO Qantas International 

“With these flights from Johannesburg and Auckland bringing an estimated 80,000 additional seats to our State each year, our aviation industry continues to supercharge Western Australia’s visitor economy, supporting local jobs and local businesses as part of our government’s economic diversification strategy,” says Western Australia Tourism Minister, The Hon. Reece Whitby MLA.

According to South Africa’s Minister of Tourism, Patricia de Lille, the launch of the new route demonstrates what is possible when government and industry work together, guided by a shared strategy:

“The Johannesburg–Perth direct service deepens our connectivity with the Oceania region and will play an important role in growing inbound business events traffic.

“As we prepare for Meetings Africa 2026 in February and Africa’s Travel Indaba in May, this route creates an easier, faster and more attractive pathway for delegates, exhibitors and buyers from across Australia and New Zealand.

“For leisure travellers, this flight opens South Africa’s full range of offerings, from bush to beach, from culture to cuisine, and from adventure to relaxation, across all nine of our diverse provinces.”

• Patricia de Lille, South Africa’s Minister of Tourism 

The new route complements Qantas’ existing Johannesburg-Sydney route, with both seeing strong demand from South Africans ahead of the upcoming peak holiday season. 

Key Information 

• Fares are available on Qantas.com. 
• The route will be operated by a Qantas A330 aircraft, featuring 27 Business Class suites in a 1-2-1 configuration. Each suite offers direct aisle access and converts into a lie-flat bed. The aircraft has 224 Economy seats. 
• With the launch of the new route, Qantas now has up to 292,000 seats between Australia and South Africa each year: 
• Up to 212,430 seats per year between Johannesburg and Sydney. 
• Up to 79,650 seats per year between Johannesburg and Perth
• With the newly launched Perth-Auckland route, customers travelling from Johannesburg can now reach New Zealand with just one stop. 
• Qantas has also announced a codeshare agreement with Airlink – meaning Australian travellers have easier access to 15 countries and 45 destinations across Africa (including Madagascar and St Helena Island.) 

For images and inspiration, visit the Qantas Johannesburg-Perth Media Site

Visit the official Qantas website here

The term popped up in the 1990s and hit its stride in the 2000s, when gap-year adventurers set out with a backpack full of dreams and a clean T-shirt. You wouldn’t be wrong for picturing “hippie-type” solo travellers, content with beach huts and a diet of budget noodles.

But those free-spirited 2000s travellers are parents now. Instead of just swapping stories from Southeast Asia, they’re teaching their kids the value of responsible travel. And boom, family voluntourism is born.

It looks a little different these days. Less ‘Survivor’ chic, more practical and purposeful. If you’re dreaming of a family holiday that builds memories and contributes to real, sustainable change, here’s what you need to know.

The Benefits

Studies, including research led by the University of Texas, link youth volunteering with lower anxiety and depressive symptoms and fewer behavioural issues in adolescence and young adulthood. It builds empathy, perspective and self-esteem beyond the confines of a standard educational environment.

Family trips already bond us. Volunteering adds purpose to that connection. Throw travel into the mix, and suddenly your child is learning in the world’s biggest classroom, with “global citizen” as their unofficial job title.

So where does a family actually start in their quest for an out-of-the-ordinary holiday to remember? That’s where the magic of professionally arranged volunteer travel comes in. Those original voluntourists may have had time to figure things out on the road, but today’s families can rely on expert guidance instead.

“Our Travel Experts match families with responsible, well-run programmes through trusted partners,” says Antoinette Turner, GM of Flight Centre South Africa. “This makes it easy to add purpose to a holiday, at the comfort level that suits you.”

Turner adds that booking through a trusted advisor gives families total peace of mind.

“We vet our partners carefully, so travellers know their time and efforts are genuinely contributing to local communities and conservation projects, not just ticking a box.”

Travel Kind: The Do No Harm Checklist

Voluntourism works best when it genuinely helps, not harms. Before adding any give back experience to your family itinerary, run a quick ethics check.

What to look for

• Local-led or community-owned projects that reinvest in the area
• Transparent use of volunteer fees
• Strong child-safeguarding policies when little ones are involved

What to avoid

• Any wildlife handling or performances
• Visits to residential care facilities (orphanages/children’s homes) as global child‑safeguarding guidance discourages these
• Pay-to-play photo opportunities
• Activities that replace local jobs

International Highlights

1. Mauritius – Puppy Cuddles and Purpose

Join the Protection of Animals Welfare Society (PAWS) for a morning of walking, bathing and caring for rescue dogs. It is a heartwarming experience squeezed neatly between snorkelling sessions.

At a glance: Half day experience | Year-round | Light activity | Accessible from most resorts | All ages with guardian | Under staff supervision

2. Cambodia – Elephant Sanctuary

The Cambodia Wildlife Sanctuary protects forests and their wild residents after decades of illegal logging. Families can join weekly volunteer programmes focused on forest restoration and animal care. Observation only, no riding, feeding or bathing.

At a glance: Three to five days | Year-round | Moderate walking on rough paths | Minimum age ten with guardian

3. Seychelles – Coral Gardeners in Training

The WiseOceans Marine Discovery Programme within the five-star Kempinski Seychelles Resort on Mahé offers something very special indeed. Not only can youngsters experience

Seychelles’ ocean life through tailored excursions (and under the wing of the resort’s marine biologist), including beach exploration, guided snorkelling and a host of kids’ club activities, but guests can become active participants in coral conservation too.

As Christine Vel, Director at Seychelles Tourism, explains, it is an unforgettable opportunity for budding marine biologists.

“Guests can choose their level of involvement, including getting hands-on by learning how to attach coral fragments, monitor their growth, and then following their journey back to the reef,” explains Vel. “Coral sponsors even receive certificates, photographs of their coral ‘babies’ and regular updates on their growth and progress.”

At a glance: Year-round | Activities differ according to age, weather and interest

4. Costa Rica – Hatchlings and Hope

Along Costa Rica’s Pacific coast, local NGOs guide families during turtle nesting and hatching season. Watching a hatchling waddle toward the surf might be the most memorable empathy lesson on earth.

At a glance: Night patrols one to two hours | Peak June to November depending on coast | Moderate beach walking | Red light torches only | Eight plus with guardian

Local Legends

1. Cape Town – Penguin Rescue Mornings At SANCCOB

Help prepare feeds and care for rescued seabirds under expert supervision, with no direct wildlife handling unless trained.

At a glance: Half day | Year-round with peak May to August | Indoor and outdoor tasks | Ten plus with guardian

2. The Garden Route – Tree Planting with Greenpop

Roll up your sleeves, plant indigenous trees, learn about reforestation and enjoy a little music, laughter and maybe some compost in your hair.

At a glance: Half or full day | Seasonal August to November | Outdoor activity | Family friendly with guardian for minors

3. Kruger Region – Citizen Conservation

Partner lodges near Kruger and Addo collaborate with SANParks Honorary Rangers to include practical conservation experiences, from removing invasive plants to monitoring wildlife. Equal parts rewarding and wild.

At a glance: Half to multi day | Year-round | Heat exposure and light hiking | Activities vary by lodge such as invasive plant removal

4. Namibia – Ocean Conservation Days

Join Ocean Conservation Namibia volunteers to support trained teams during seal rescues, with no direct handling, or take part in high-impact coastal cleanups. Sustainability with a side of sea breeze.

At a glance: Half day | April to October | Windy conditions, moderate stamina helpful | Twelve plus with guardian

Big Memories, Bigger Impact

“The new generation of travellers is moving beyond ‘leave no trace’ – they want to leave a positive impact,” says Turner. “Families are leading that charge, with parents recognising how travel can shape children’s values in the best possible way.”

Whether you help penguins find their feet or corals find new life, you will come home with more than souvenirs. You’ll return with empathy, perspective and a very good story for Monday’s school drop-off.

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JOHANNESBURG – Travellers, travel managers, bookers (and those holding the purse strings) face a mixed picture in 2026, with significant cost variations depending on where they’re heading.

The latest FCM data reveals some surprises: global airfares are down, certain hotels are more affordable than last year, but flying within Africa isn’t getting any easier. Here’s what to watch for – and how to make your company’s travel budget go further.

Africa: Flight constraints, accommodation relief

If your work takes you around Africa, you’ll still face crowded flights and limited options. Many airlines haven’t restored full schedules post-pandemic, so even as demand returns, it can be tough to find a seat when you need one. Mummy Mafojane, General Manager for FCM South Africa, notes, “If you’re not booking early and keeping an eye on route capacity, you could end up paying a premium or missing out on the flights you want.”

But there’s good news on the hotel front – especially in South Africa itself. Compared to early 2025, Cape Town hotel rates are down 19%, and Johannesburg hotels are 13% cheaper. Hotel rates in key African hubs such as Nairobi and Lagos are also considerably down, while Cairo is holding steady too. This is, in part, due to a development boom in Africa with a surge in hotel construction across the continent – leading to increased competition and more rooms (at cheaper prices).

“It’s a welcome change for travellers who’ve been squeezed by rising accommodation costs for years,” says Mafojane.

Global routes: broad-based savings

Here’s another welcome surprise: international travel is getting cheaper. Business class fares are down 4% and even economy tickets are 3% lower than last year. The reason? Although lower fuel costs have played a role, Mafojane explains that demand has actually fallen short of original forecasts, and airlines have had to adjust their pricing strategies to stimulate demand.

And it’s not just the price of the ticket, but ancillaries too (think seat selection, Wi-Fi and extra legroom). Seat selection fees are down 2%, Wi-Fi charges have fallen as much as 7%, and extra legroom is 3-5% cheaper.

“The decline in these add-on costs means you can often travel more comfortably without busting your budget,” says Mafojane.

If you’re heading to Asia-Pacific, you’ll find even more value. Hotels average $170 a night, and the typical business trip costs just $972, far below the global average of $1,600. Europe’s a mixed bag: hotels are up on average, but there are more flight options, thanks to a 4.3% increase in flights and 5% more seats in early 2025.

Regional hotel variations and the bleisure opportunity

Globally, hotel rates are up 10% to an average of $201, but there are big regional swings. While Europe and the US have seen price hikes, the Middle East offers deals (Dubai is down 18%, Doha down 13%), and Asia-Pacific and Australia/New Zealand are more affordable, often with perks like free Wi-Fi and breakfast.

These trends are making “bleisure” – tacking a few personal days onto a business trip – more attractive. “We’re seeing more travellers extend their stays, especially in affordable destinations,” says Mafojane. “Combining business and leisure can actually stretch your travel budget further and improve your overall travel experience, as long as you stick to company policy.”

Smart traveller strategies for 2026

Whether you’re booking for yourself or working with your company’s travel team, these tips will help you get more value:

• Don’t default to one airline (unless your airline of choice is stepping up in terms of loyalty benefits or serious corporate savings). Check for the “best fare of the day”—you could save more than you think.
• Book 2-3 weeks in advance. FCM’s data shows this is when the best deals are available.
• Keep changes to a minimum. If your change fees start to creep up, rethink your booking habits.
• Pick your destination with care. Some regions offer far better value than others, especially for meetings, events and incentives.
• Look for hotels that include extras like breakfast and Wi-Fi; these add up quickly.

The bottom line

2026’s travel landscape is anything but predictable, but the data shows clear opportunities for savvy South African travellers. As Mafojane puts it: “If you know where to look and plan ahead, it’s possible to travel better for less, even when the market is volatile. Be flexible, ask questions, and use the tools at your disposal. That’s how you’ll get the most from your business travel this year.”

“We’re seeing that the most successful business travellers today are those who understand the cost landscape and work collaboratively with their travel teams,” agrees Juan Antonio Iglesias, Head of FCM Consulting, EMEA. “It’s about being informed and making smart choices that benefit both the traveller and the company.”

With the right approach, you can turn global shifts and local quirks into cost savings, extra comfort, and maybe even a little more time to enjoy the journey.

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Stellenbosch – One of South Africa’s most captivating garden lifestyle celebrations, Garden Town Stellenbosch, returns from 31 October to 9 November 2025, promising to dazzle garden lovers, green-fingered enthusiasts and families alike. Organised by Visit Stellenbosch, this flagship event features the expanded Stellenbosch Garden Show & Market; a vibrant, must-see highlight of the botanical celebration.

Set against the striking backdrop of Stellenbosch’s historic Town Hall, the 2025 Garden Market will once again delight visitors with a tranquil tea garden and a curated selection of plants, gardening treasures, décor, and inspiration. As the lively heart of Garden Town Stellenbosch, the Market anchors a celebration that comes to life across the town’s gardens, venues, and open spaces. This year’s event ups the ante with immersive displays, hands-on workshops, and a jampacked programme that celebrates the joy and beauty of gardening in all its forms.

The Garden Market: A Botanical Treasure Trove

A paradise for plant lovers and taste makers (or inspiration hunters), the Garden Market brings together over 60 curated stalls offering:

• A wide selection of indoor and outdoor plants
• Rare and indigenous plant species
• Art, botanical home decor and crafts
• Tasty culinary treats and artisanal food products

Complete your Garden Show experience with a cup of tea and cake at the charming tea garden, set among the display installations at the Town Hall.

Award-winning Display Gardens

Visitors can explore immersive gardens by some of South Africa’s most celebrated landscape designers, including:

• Life Green Group, recipient of the South African Landscapers’ Institute (SALI) Double Gold Award and 2025 Trophy for Best Interior Plant scaping Project in South Africa, bring sophisticated and sustainable design to life inside Town Hall.
• Alan Dawson Gardens, multiple 2025 SALI Gold winners and Overall Winner of the SALI Awards of Excellence, will showcase the acclaimed “House Venn Coniston” project that merges luxury with ecological sensitivity.

Rooted in Knowledge: Events & Workshops

At the heart of this year’s Garden Show programme, the Town Hall series brings together leading voices in sustainable gardening, food systems and rewilding. Experts Loubie Rusch, Nikki Brighton and Sue Buckland share practical insights on indigenous edibles, foraging and climate‑resilient gardening – inspiring visitors to grow and live more lightly on the land.

Beyond the Town Hall, Garden Town extends throughout Stellenbosch with guided walks, creative workshops and unique experiences across farms, vineyards and gardens.

Highlights include:

• Peace of Me Mosaic Birdfeeder Workshop – create a beautiful mosaic birdfeeder with Kim Schwerdtfeger on 1 November.
• Birding with Jacques Gilliomee – a serene morning of birding at Weltevreden Estate, led by expert birder Jacques Gilliomee.
• Guided walks with Diane Harper – experience the beauty of the Dylan Lewis Sculpture Garden (usually open by private appointment only) with knowledgeable guide Diane Harper.
• Garden Town Vineyard Run on 8 November – a scenic trail run through the Bottelary Hills Vineyards and Renosterveld from Neethlingshof Wine Estate.
• Zevenwacht 4×4 Wine Adventures – exhilarating 4×4 tours through critically endangered Swartland Granite Renosterveld, followed by wine tasting and a charcuterie platter.
• Spier Food Garden Self-Harvesting – harvest your own produce from the food garden on Tuesday to Saturday mornings between 9-11am.

Don’t Miss: The Iconic Flower Parade on 4 November

A bloom-filled highlight, the annual Flower Parade will start at Die Braak on 4 November 2025 from 6.15pm to 7pm. Bring your family, wear your most whimsical flower crown, decorate your bike or pram, and join the joyful pageant of petals parading through the town centre. This free event invites everyone to celebrate the power and beauty of nature, Stellenbosch style!

This year’s parade is made even more special as the winners and participants of the annual Mayoral Gardening Competition will once again be announced and celebrated at the end of the parade, inspiring us all to nurture our own green spaces.

Exclusive Garden Visits

Explore both private and public gardens throughout Stellenbosch offering insights into design, sustainability and indigenous planting techniques.

Garden Town Stellenbosch 2025 is more than a garden show; it’s a vibrant community movement celebrating the harmony between people and plants, creativity and conservation. Whether you’re a horticulturist, a home gardener, or simply hungry for a breath of fresh air and flowers, this is an event not to be missed.

“Our vision for Garden Town is to create a space where sustainability, culture, wellness and beauty meet,” says Annemie Liebenberg, CEO of Visit Stellenbosch. “Whether you’re an avid gardener or simply someone who delights in nature, this celebration belongs to you.”

Stay tuned for more updates, full programme, ticketing and workshops at http://gardentown.visitstellenbosch.org

Johannesburg – South African business travellers have long faced barriers when venturing abroad – from increased visa requirements to frustrating delays. For the country’s SMEs, these challenges can be more than just an administrative hurdle; they can represent missed opportunities, delayed deals and disrupted travel plans.

Now, a major reform is underway. South Africa’s Department of Home Affairs has officially begun overhauling its passport system in an effort to restore global trust in the country’s travel documents and ultimately win back visa-free access to key markets.

Home Affairs Minister Leon Schreiber, speaking at the 2025 Tourism Business Council of South Africa (TBCSA) Leadership Conference, confirmed several measures designed to close security gaps, modernise passport issuance and improve South Africa’s international standing.

“This reform is long overdue, and it’s a step in the right direction,” says Herman Heunes, General Manager at Corporate Traveller South Africa. “For our SME clients, whose travel budgets leave little room for inefficiency or error, a more credible and secure passport will go a long way toward restoring confidence.”

Here’s what business travellers – and the teams booking and managing their trips – need to know right now.

Shrinking the Gap: What Triggered the Overhaul

The tipping point came in 2024 when Ireland – previously a visa-free destination for South Africans – suddenly imposed visa requirements. This move led to application backlogs of up to 14 weeks, frustrating travellers and business leaders alike.

Minister Schreiber acknowledged that the loss of visa exemptions isn’t political. “Our systems have not been modernised to secure and ensure the legitimacy of the South African passport. It’s on us. We need to work,” he said, admitting that gaps in authentication had created risks other countries could no longer ignore.

The key flaw? While fingerprints and facial scans were collected during passport applications, the actual photograph used was not matched to biometric data. This enabled potential impersonation or duplication – a weakness incompatible with increasingly digitised global border controls.

That loophole has now been closed. “The passport will not be issued if your face doesn’t match your record on the population register,” Schreiber confirmed.

Passport 2.0: Smarter Systems, Safer Documents

The reforms go further than fixing photographs. A complete redesign of South Africa’s identity infrastructure is underway.

The central population register, which underpins identification systems in the country, is being upgraded into what Schreiber calls an “intelligent population register.” This new system will improve interoperability between state agencies and private-sector users, including airlines, banks and international governments, making identity verification more secure and consistent.

South Africans will also receive a new e-passport, embedded with a biometric chip containing their facial and fingerprint data. This aligns South Africa with global standards, placing its passport on par with those used by countries that offer smoother international entry processes and e-gates.

“Incorporating international best practice into our documents makes compliance easier,” notes Heunes. “Security upgrades like biometric chips are no longer just ‘nice to have’, they’re an expectation from many border agencies abroad.”

Regaining Visa-Free Access: What It Will Take

While the passport improvements have been welcomed, Schreiber has made it clear that restoring visa exemptions won’t happen overnight.

“This isn’t a quick fix. Once we’ve modernised our systems, we’ll invite other governments to assess them for themselves. Only when they are confident in the integrity of our processes can we begin negotiating the return of visa-free access,” he said.

The goal? To give South Africa’s passport a clean bill of health, strengthen its credibility and, in time, bring down the number of visa requirements placed on South African travellers.

Until then, the visa burden on South African passport holders will remain, especially for popular business and trade destinations in Europe, North America, and Australia.

Pain Points That Persist

Despite the promising news, many SMEs continue to grapple with legacy challenges. Long visa lead times, varying embassy requirements and high costs take their toll. Delayed travel not only affects meetings and project timelines – it also introduces opportunity cost.

“We’ve had clients postpone international launches or move meetings online simply because they couldn’t get visa approval in time,” says Heunes. “The current environment forces SMEs to plan business travel more conservatively and much further in advance than before.”

For travel programme managers, the responsibility is equally heavy. Staying up to date with shifting entry requirements, submission timeframes and destination-specific protocols can be overwhelming, especially for lean teams.

What SMEs Should Do Now

While the passport overhaul is underway, practical steps can help SMEs minimise disruption to their travel plans:

• Apply early and plan ahead. Even domestic passport applications can face delays. Anticipate visa timelines and set realistic lead times for key trips.
• Monitor destination requirements. Many embassies have updated their application processes. A reputable travel partner can assist in navigating changes.
• Keep documentation updated. Ensure travellers’ passports are valid for at least 6 months beyond their return date, and that all business invitation letters and supporting documents meet current requirements.
• Lean on expert support. TMCs like Corporate Traveller provide real-time information, visa assistance and proactive travel advice customised for you and your team.

The Long Game: Building for Tomorrow

South Africa’s passport overhaul signals a renewed government commitment to facilitating travel and improving global mobility. For local businesses – particularly growth-focused SMEs eyeing expansion – this matters.

“International mobility is critical for our clients,” says Heunes. “Whether it’s securing funding, exploring new markets or attending trade expos, every delayed visa or slow border checkpoint has a knock-on effect. This reform gives us reason to be hopeful.”

As the new systems roll out and e-passports are delivered, business travellers can look forward to smoother journeys in the future and hopefully a return to more visa-free doors opening once again.

Envoyage, Flight Centre Travel Group’s global network for independent travel advisors, will welcome 400+ attendees from five countries – more than double the inaugural event – including over 260 advisors: 92 from Australia, 18 from Canada, 30 from New Zealand, 43 from the United States, and 80 from South Africa, alongside industry partners and suppliers.

“Hosting our second-ever Worldwide in Africa is a powerful statement about where travel is heading,” said Chantal Gouws, General Manager, Envoyage South Africa. “Bring more than 400 travel entrepreneurs and partners to Sun City during Tourism Month shines a spotlight on South Africa’s world-class experiences and MICE capability, from the Pilanesberg to our coastlines and cities. Our objective is simple: turn inspiration into itineraries, relationships into repeat business, and first-time visitors into lifelong ambassadors for destination South Africa.”

Why South Africa; why now?

With its scenic beauty, cultural appeal, and wildlife, South Africa emerged as the preferred host amongst Envoyage’s international membership. The choice underscores the country’s growing allure for both leisure and business events, and the trade’s appetite for product knowledge that converts to bookings.

“Beyond four days in Sun City, delegates will disperse on curated pre- and post-FAM trips, showcasing diverse regions and suppliers. We’re working closely with local partners to ensure the event leaves a positive legacy, including sessions that champion regenerative and accessible tourism,” said Gouws.

What’s on the agenda?

Worldwide 2025 will deliver high-impact learning combined with networking and signature celebrations. Friday sets the scene with arrivals and a Safari Celebrations welcome dinner, while Saturday and Sunday deliver mainstage content and a buzzing Partner Showcase, with curated Partner Connects that match advisors and suppliers for deep-dive product conversations and deal-making.

Sunday adds Worldwide Connect and Lions’ Lair – Envoyage’s Shark Tank-style pitch-off where advisors compete for a $5,000 AUD investment to bring a game-changing idea to life. Throughout the event, delegates earn WW Dollars for engaged participation; on Monday, those dollars become bidding power in a high-energy live auction of supplier-donated prizes, rounding out the final conference sessions and closing ceremony. The weekend also features the Africa Waves farewell on Sunday evening.

“A centrepiece of the weekend is the return of The Envys, Envoyage’s global awards recognising standout performance and impact across the network,” Gouws commented. 2025 categories include Customer Service Excellence, Leadership in Regenerative & Accessible Tourism, and Envoyage Member of the Year (one honouree per region), to name just a few.

“This moment is bigger than a conference; it’s a catalyst,” commented Gouws. “With top-producing advisors and partners from five countries on the ground, we’ll share South Africa’s extraordinary product, spark partnerships that accelerate inbound demand, and champion responsible, inclusive travel that benefits our communities. We cannot wait to welcome the world to Sun City and send them home with sales-ready itineraries and a renewed belief in Africa’s power to inspire,” she concluded.

The trip has been made possible through the unwavering support of Airlink, who have fully sponsored the team’s flights. As both a valued Titans partner and the only airline connecting St Helena to the world, Airlink has played a central role in making this remarkable camp a reality.

St Helena, a remote island with deep cricketing roots, offers the perfect blend of isolation and inspiration for a high-performance squad. “St Helena offers an environment that is increasingly rare in professional sport,” said Sebastian Stent, Senior Marketing Manager at the Communications Hub of St Helena Government. “The island’s seclusion allows teams to focus completely on their preparations without distraction, while also enjoying the natural beauty, cultural heritage, and genuine hospitality of our community.”

Momentum Multiply Titans Head Coach, Rivash Gobind, expressed his excitement ahead of the camp: “This preseason trip to St Helena is an incredible opportunity for us as a team. The environment will allow us to focus on our cricket, strengthen our bonds as a squad, and challenge ourselves in new ways. We are extremely grateful to Airlink and all the partners involved for making this unique experience possible.”

The initiative was born out of the strong partnership between Titans Cricket and Airlink, with St Helena’s cricketing history providing a natural link. “Cricket is rumoured to be the first sport played on the island as far back as 1844,” added Stent. “With support from Mantis St Helena and Sure St Helena, the camp quickly became a venture with incredible potential for everyone involved.”

“Airlink has a proud association with the Momentum Multiply Titans franchise. We share the common values of reliability, professionalism and dedication, along with the quest to provide memorable and happy experiences for our growing communities of fans and customers,” said Airlink’s CEO, de Villiers Engelbrecht. “Through this partnership, the Titans’ cricket teams benefit from Airlink’s consistently punctual service, seamless travel coordination, and logistics across our comprehensive route network,” he added.

While the primary focus will be on intense training, the players and staff will also have opportunities to immerse themselves in the island’s unique experiences – from marine safaris and fishing excursions to the famous 699-step Jacob’s Ladder challenge. These activities promise to strengthen team spirit while giving the squad a once-in-a-lifetime adventure.

For the Titans, this camp marks an opportunity to prepare for the season in an environment that fosters focus, growth, and cohesion.

For St Helena, hosting the team highlights the island’s ability to welcome high-profile groups while showcasing its extraordinary natural and cultural assets to a global audience.

The Momentum Multiply Titans thank Airlink for their commitment and vision in helping create a preseason unlike any other.

Momentum Multiply Squad traveling to St Helena: Neil Brand, Letsolo Selemela, Jorich Schalkwyk, David De Villiers, Janco Smit, Roelof van der Merwe, Lethabo Phahlamohlaka, Lesego Kokohlabana, Keegan Petersen, Duan Jansen, Sibonelo Makhanya, Keagan Lion-Cachet, Andile Phehlukwayo, Junior Dala, Dayaan Galiem.

Support Staff: Rivash Gobind (Head Coach), Albie Morkel (Assistant Coach), Karen Smithies (Team Manager), Mojalefa Sebetlela (Physiotherapist), Stuart Fortuin (Stadium Manager), Ramano Ramoo (Data Analyst).

Media: Derek Alberts & Dylan O’Leary.