For households with home loans, vehicle finance, or other variable-rate debt, the increase means monthly repayments are likely to edge higher, leaving a little less room for non-essential spending.

So, does this mean the holiday of your dreams needs to go back onto the “maybe one day” list?

Not necessarily. Analysts and trade union officials still expect headline inflation to average 4.4% this year, according to the latest survey commissioned by the South African Reserve Bank. Forecasts for 2027 and 2028 have also improved slightly, falling to 4% and 3.8%, respectively.

Stable inflation expectations don’t mean prices are falling, and the interest-rate increase may place additional pressure on household budgets. However, greater predictability can still make it easier to set a realistic savings target and understand how long it might take to reach it.

“An interest-rate increase is never welcome news for indebted households, and travellers should reassess what they can comfortably put aside once their essential expenses and repayments have been covered,” says Antoinette Turner, General Manager of Flight Centre South Africa. “But that doesn’t necessarily mean abandoning the idea of a holiday. It may mean adjusting the destination, extending the savings period, or starting with a smaller amount. The important thing is to plan around the budget you actually have.”

A separate consumer confidence survey found that South African sentiment improved during the third quarter. While households are still expected to prioritise essentials and approach festive-season spending thoughtfully, the shift suggests that Saffas are beginning to feel a little more hopeful about their finances.

So, what does a holiday actually cost?

Based on current pricing, a couple could enjoy a short local break for less than R4,000*, while longer regional and international escapes become possible with a bigger budget and a longer savings runway. After all, a trip that feels impossible as one large expense can look very different when it’s broken into manageable monthly amounts.

“Affordability is personal, which is why holiday planning shouldn’t begin with a destination pulled from someone else’s bucket list,” says Turner. “Start with an amount you can save comfortably and consistently after covering your essential expenses, updated debt repayments, and emergency provision. If that amount is R500 a month, don’t dismiss it as ‘too little’. Over a year, it becomes R6,000 – enough to cover certain short local breaks for two at today’s prices. Start with the number that works for your household, give it time to grow, and then choose the holiday that fits.”

A current holiday price ladder for two

The examples below are based on selected Flight Centre package prices available at the time of writing.

It’s important to remember that the lowest headline price isn’t automatically the most affordable holiday. Turner cautions:

“Travellers need to compare what their money actually covers. A package that includes flights, transfers, and meals may offer greater cost certainty than a cheaper option that leaves most expenses to be settled in foreign currency. The rand can be volatile, so knowing that a large portion of the trip has already been paid upfront can make the final cost easier to predict and protect your budget from unwelcome surprises.”

There’s also one more important catch: current travel offers have specific booking deadlines and travel periods. A package available today may expire long before someone following a 12-month savings plan is ready to travel.

The figures above should therefore be treated as an indication of what different holiday categories cost now, not a guarantee that the identical package will be available at the same price in future.

The best holiday is one you can afford to enjoy

“There’s no single amount that makes someone ‘able to afford travel’,” Turner concludes. “For one household, success might be a R4,000 road trip. For another, it might mean saving for 18 months towards an international holiday. The win is being honest about the numbers, allowing enough time, and choosing an experience that leaves you with good memories – not months of financial stress.”

Stabilising inflation may not put cheaper holidays on the departures board immediately. But if it brings a little more predictability to household budgets, it could help many South Africans replace “maybe one day” with a date, a monthly target, and a holiday that truly fits.

*Based on Flight Centre holiday packages as of 21 October 2026

FLIGHT CENTRE TRAVEL GROUP SOUTH AFRICA

Flight Centre Travel Group (FCTG) SA is part of Flight Centre Travel Group, an Australia-based international travel company listed on the Australian Stock Exchange, with a market cap of AU$2,31 billion and a current share price of AU$11.42 as of 22 October, 2026. FCTG with three leading brands: Flight Centre, Corporate Traveller and FCM, of which Corporate Traveller and FCM are proud level 1 BBBEE Contributors. FCTG SA is wholly owned and has been recognised as one of Deloitte’s Best Companies to Work for in South Africa for over a decade.

Dubai is that stopover.

Flight Centre South Africa’s booking data shows uninterrupted month-on-month recovery since the March low caused by the US-Iran conflict, with bookings growing at roughly 40% per month across the recovery window.

The momentum is real, it is sustained, and it is accelerating.

“Emirates’ network is largely restored, access from South Africa has never been better, and Dubai has used its quieter period to reinvent itself,” says Euan McNeil, MD of Flight Centre Travel Group South Africa.

For travellers already planning long-haul journeys through Dubai, the case for turning that layover into something deliberate has never been stronger. But how much time do you have, and what should you be doing with it?

First, the practical bit: Visas and the Dubai Connect advantage

South Africans need a pre-approved UAE visa before flying. “The good news” says McNeil, “is it’s one of the more straightforward visa processes available to South Africans. The document requirements are minimal – a clear passport scan and a recent photograph – and standard processing takes just three to four working days, with urgent options available in 24 to 48 hours if you need it faster. A 96-hour transit visa, purpose-built for layover travellers, is available for US$49, allowing you to explore the city before continuing your journey.”

Emirates’ Dubai Connect programme offers eligible transit passengers with longer connection times complimentary hotel accommodation, meals, airport transfers, and visa support. If you’re booked on Emirates and your connection time is between eight and 26 hours, and no earlier connection is available on your itinerary, you may qualify. Book it at least 12 hours before your incoming flight, and Emirates will take care of the rest.

“Check your eligibility before you book. For travellers on longer itineraries, it transforms a long layover from a logistical inconvenience into a complimentary night in one of the world’s most extraordinary cities,” McNeil says.

Getting the timing right

Getting through immigration and out of Dubai International (DXB) typically takes 45 to 60 minutes. Getting back to your gate requires you to be at the airport at least 90 to 120 minutes before your onward flight. Factor in 15 to 25 minutes each way to Downtown Dubai by taxi, or around 25 minutes on the Dubai Metro Red Line.

A note on traffic: the drive to central Dubai takes 15 to 25 minutes in normal conditions, but during morning rush hour (7:30 to 9:30am) and evening rush hour (5:00 to 8:30pm) along Sheikh Zayed Road, that can double. “Take the Metro during peak hours – it never gets stuck in traffic, and a single journey costs between AED 3 and AED 8.50. A one-day unlimited pass costs AED 22,” advises McNeil.

8 hours: The downtown run

This is the sweet spot for a first-time Dubai layover. Head straight to Downtown Dubai via the Metro Red Line or a taxi and keep it focused.

The Burj Khalifa is the obvious anchor. Stretching 828 metres, it remains the tallest building on earth, and the views from the observation deck are as arresting as every photograph suggests. Book your tickets online in advance to skip the queues.

Immediately below it, the Dubai Fountain puts on choreographed shows every 30 minutes from 6pm, set to a rotating programme of music that ranges from classical Arabic to contemporary pop. It’s free, it’s spectacular, and it takes about 15 minutes.

The Dubai Mall surrounds you on all sides: 1,200 stores, an indoor ice rink, a 10-million-litre aquarium, and enough food options to constitute a destination in their own right. Don’t try to see all of it. Pick a direction, walk, eat something good, and get back to the airport with time to spare.

One night: Old Dubai meets new

With a full evening and morning at your disposal, you can do something the 8-hour layover can’t: contrast.

Start in Old Dubai. A 10 to 15-minute taxi ride from the airport brings you to the Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood, known for its wind-tower houses and narrow lanes. From there, take an abra (a traditional wooden boat) across Dubai Creek for AED 1, landing you in Deira’s Gold Souk and Spice Souk. The Gold Souk alone contains over 300 retailers and an estimated 10 tonnes of gold on display at any given time. From Old Dubai, head south to Downtown for the evening.

The next morning, consider visiting the Museum of the Future, a stunning torus-shaped building near the Burj Khalifa, widely regarded as one of the most beautiful buildings on earth. It offers immersive exhibits about the coming decades that are worth the two hours they take. Book in advance.

Two nights: The full Dubai

Two nights transform the layover into a short break.

Add a desert safari to the itinerary above for an afternoon spent on the golden dunes, dune bashing in a 4×4, camel riding, and a traditional Bedouin-style dinner under the stars. Arabian Adventures runs excellent evening safaris that can be booked as a half-day, leaving your morning free for the city.

Dubai Marina deserves an evening. The waterfront is lined with restaurants at every price point, delivering views of the illuminated skyscrapers reflecting off the water, while a sunset dhow cruise along the canal gives you a different perspective of the city.

And then there’s what’s new. Khor Al Mamzar’s 500-million-dirham redevelopment has transformed the beloved beach destination into a 24-hour lifestyle hub, complete with a 300-metre night beach open around the clock, the region’s first floating walkway, a 3.6-kilometre swimming shoreline, and 19 food and beverage outlets.

If you’re staying in the airport

Not every layover allows for a city excursion, and if yours doesn’t, DXB is arguably the best airport in the world to be stuck in.

Terminal 3 alone contains a dedicated gaming lounge with PC and PlayStation consoles, a Fortnum & Mason store offering complimentary tea samples, a Dyson store offering complimentary hair styling, indoor Zen Gardens near Gates B7 and B11, and a Garrett Popcorn stand giving away samples of their gourmet popcorn.

The bottom line

Emirates is flying. Dubai has upgraded itself.

The gate change you’ve been sleeping through for years is ready to become the highlight of your trip. The only thing left to decide is how long to stay.

Quarter 4 was always going to be tricky. October through December is traditionally a busy stretch of the corporate travel calendar, with the year’s final stakeholder meetings, conferences and year-end events all squeezed in before the annual slowdown. At the same time, holidaymakers and international arrivals are competing for the same seats and rooms. For SMEs used to booking as and when they need to, record fuel prices on top of peak-season demand is a costly combination.

“Smaller businesses tend to have a smaller booking window when compared to larger corporates,” says Herman Heunes, GM at Corporate Traveller. “Multi-nationals, for example, typically require flights to be booked 21 days in advance, while SMEs are far more flexible and reactive. And they need to be, but in Q4 it can get expensive, especially against a backdrop of rising fuel prices.”

So how do you keep Q4 on track without the costs running away with you? Heunes has the following advice:

Book the trips you can already predict

Look at last year’s calendar. If your team went to Cape Town in November or Durban in December, they’ll probably go again. The message is simple: lock in fares now, before the best options – and flight times – sell out.

Of course, booking is often cash flow dependent, and Heunes says partnering with a strong travel management company (TMC) can make all the difference.

“SMEs don’t have the travel volume to negotiate good rates on their own,” he says. “A TMC does. Partnering with one gives you access to its buying power, so you benefit from negotiated rates with airlines, hotels and car rental companies that you wouldn’t get booking direct. On top of that, Corporate Traveller offers clients a credit facility, so you can book now and pay later, protecting your cash flow.”

Adopt a Total Trip Cost (TTC) mindset

The instinct when prices spike is to cut costs wherever possible: book the cheapest flight, cap hotel spend and push for budget stays. But the ticket price is only part of the picture. TTC adds in the ground transport, the lost working hours and the toll on the traveller (which is particularly important if your team’s already had a long year).

Take the classic Q4 compromise: a cheaper flight with a longer layover, paired with a hotel further from the city centre. The saving looks good on paper, but it often means a tired traveller, a taxi fare to and from an outlying hotel, and maybe a lounge visit to make the layover bearable. By the time you add it all up, the “cheaper” option often costs more, in money and morale.

“Always look at TTC rather than just ticket price,” says Heunes. “Paying slightly more for a flight or a hotel near a client’s office can deliver more in the long run. You avoid extra ground costs, and your team arrives on time and ready to work.”

Pay for flexibility where it counts

December work is inherently reactive. Stakeholder meetings run long, end-of-year event schedules can shift at the last minute, and unpredictable weather can easily disrupt itineraries. In fact, research shows that both travel managers and bookers consistently cite trip instability and the financial risk of non-refundable bookings as top concerns during peak seasons.

If a client meeting moves, even by a couple of hours, a “cheap” fare instantly loses its value, forcing you to buy a brand-new ticket at peak, last-minute prices. A flexible corporate fare costs a little more upfront but acts as an insurance policy, protecting the budget when plans inevitably change in Q4.

Book the car with the flight

Ground transport should never be an afterthought, yet it is often left to the last minute. In Q4, corporate demand coincides directly with the holiday rush and, interestingly, there are a few categories that sell out first, including minivans and 7+ seaters (important to note, if you’re transporting your team to an event), automatics (across all categories) and SUVs/4X4s. Get in quick, and ensure your travellers are enrolled in ‘fast-track’ or ‘skip-the-queue’ programmes, as any time saved during Q4 is a massive win.

Look after your people

Year-end fatigue is real, and it directly affects how travellers perform when they arrive.

“Put someone on a 06:00 flight with a long layover to save a few hundred rand, and they’ll just arrive feeling flat and exhausted,” says Heunes. “But it’s important to look at ground-level friction too. Negotiate early check-ins or late check-outs wherever possible and enquire about complimentary hotel shuttles. These ‘soft perks’ are incredibly difficult to secure on your own during peak season, but ask your TMC to work their magic.”

What to do now

“Most Q4 savings come from decisions made before the rush,” says Heunes. “An hour of planning this week will make a massive difference come December.”

Here are three things you can do immediately:

• Audit your ticket credits. Cancelled meetings throughout the year leave unused ticket credits sitting forgotten in inboxes until they expire. Check what’s there before you book anything new. A good TMC will track and apply these automatically, so check in with your travel manager to confirm.
• Pull your bookings from last year. If you have recurring meetings or events, lock in flights and rooms this week.
• If you have partnered with a TMC, let them do the heavy lifting. Be proactive, make travel decisions as soon as possible so they can leverage their buying power and supplier relationships to secure the best corporate fares and rates available – alongside perks like early check-in and room upgrades.

Here are the non-negotiables for 2026 holiday travel:

1. Buy comprehensive travel insurance. Then actually read the Ts&Cs. “Honestly, it’s the best booking decision you’ll make,” says Zay Ferguson-Nair, Customer Experience Leader at Flight Centre South Africa. “Unspecified event cover is often included if you purchase cover within 24-72 hours of your trip being booked. Talk to your travel advisor about the right cover for your trip at the point of booking, and don’t leave it for later. It shouldn’t be an afterthought.”
2. Lock in your fare now, even if you’re travelling next year. “Our advice at the moment is simple: Book early, pay now, stay flexible,” says Ferguson-Nair. “You can book today’s prices for travel up to 12 months out, which means you can snap up the deals Middle Eastern carriers are offering right now and worry about packing later.”
3. Ask about an airline’s date-change policy. Change fees and flexibility can shift, and in some cases paying a once-off change fee works out cheaper than booking a fully flexible fare from the start. Always ask – and compare – before you book.
4. Always compare the total ticket cost, not the headline price. Fuel surcharges, flexibility and ancillaries can quietly pile up, so always compare apples with apples, says Ferguson-Nair. “In the current climate, we recommend paying a little more for flexibility. It can save you money in the long run.”
5. Quote and ticket on the same day. Fares are moving really quickly right now, and a quote held overnight can vanish by breakfast, so if you’re happy with the price, secure it.
6. Check your passport before you do anything else. Most destinations require at least six months’ validity (from your return date) and two blank pages, so check your passport first, then book. Ditto for visa requirements.
7. Travel “carry-on only” wherever possible. With some airlines raising checked baggage fees to offset rising fuel costs, a cabin-ready wheelie bag at your side saves money, time at the carousel, and a great deal of stress if your flight is suddenly delayed or rerouted. And if you do find yourself sprinting to a service desk to sort out a grounded flight, at least your bag is coming with you.
8. Pack light. Really light. Sudoku, packing cubes, or military rolls – pick your weapon. We all know we’ll be wearing the same two outfits on rotation, so why are we pretending otherwise?
9. Wear your bulkiest items onto the plane. Boots, puffers, and your heaviest jersey all count as free luggage when they’re on your body, and the cabin gets cold enough that you’ll thank yourself later.
10. Remember an in-flight essentials kit. A spare pair of undies, a toothbrush, contact lens solution, phone charger, a change of top, and any prescription medication should always travel on your person, not in the hold.
11. Bring an empty, refillable water bottle. Fill it past security at any refill station and you’ll skip the airport mark-up entirely, plus you’ll stay properly hydrated on the flight.
12. Download the airline app before you leave home. If your flight is delayed or cancelled, the app will keep you up to speed and in the know.
13. Better still: save your Travel Expert’s 24-hour support number to your phone. If things go awry, you want a friendly, efficient human on the other end of the line. Same goes for your travel insurance and your hotel.
14. Know the new power bank rules before you fly. Since 27 March 2026, ICAO rules limit passengers to two power banks in the cabin and ban charging them during the flight, with some carriers (Emirates among them) capping it at one. Never put a power bank in checked luggage or the overhead bin. These devices belong under the seat in front of you, where cabin crew can reach them fast if needed.
15. Ignore “airport theory” no matter how convincing the TikTok. The trend that challenges travellers to get from the airport entrance to the departure gate in 15 minutes or less is a great way to miss your flight, especially with current security wait times.

A bit of homework at the booking stage, a sense of humour at the airport, and a wheelie bag you can actually lift, and festive season travel is yours for the taking!

AI can spit out itineraries, give you quick-hit travel tips, and help narrow down where to go when. It’s like a very enthusiastic intern who’s read every blog post ever written – but still needs a manager to check their work. This is probably why the same survey reported that a staggering 97% of Saffas see some sort of value in using a travel agent to help plan their next trip.

In short, AI lays a solid foundation, but it’s up to a travel expert to fill in the gaps.

“When travellers come to us after trying AI, they’re often surprised by what they didn’t know,” says Sue Garrett, GM of Supply, Pricing & Marketing at Flight Centre South Africa. “We know which ferry routes actually run in October, which hotels have been fully renovated, and which ‘must-see’ attractions are genuinely worth the visit. Local intelligence and practical, hard-earned experience is what turns a theoretical itinerary into a trip that actually works.”

So, if you’re dreaming up travel ideas for 2026, here’s how to use AI to plan your trip – and when you need to call in the experts.

Use AI to brainstorm, not book

AI has imagination, we’ll give it that. The problem? That “tailored” Greek itinerary might include ferry routes that don’t exist, hotels that closed in 2019, and a wine tour that’s actually a goat farm.

Most AI chatbots also rely on data that’s over a year old, which can lead to outdated information like incorrect opening hours, ongoing construction, or whether a place is only open during certain seasons.

“AI is good at synthesising research and helping us work faster,” says Garrett. “But travellers can’t rely on it for detail. Accuracy, reliability, and tailoring a trip to personal needs still comes from working with an experienced advisor.”

AI requires very specific prompting

If you’ve ever asked ChatGPT to plan a trip, you know it’s a bit like making a wish to a genie – the magic only works if you word it just right. The catch? Most travellers have no clue what to wish for.

What’s more, AI doesn’t understand your specific needs and preferences: that you hate long layovers, your sister has severe motion sickness, and you once had a small breakdown over an Airbnb with no curtains.

A traveller advisor will ask the right questions and factor in your specific needs, including travel insurance, visas, layovers, luggage, dietary requirements and even medical needs (for example, travelling with insulin).

Real world problems need real world people

Here’s where things get serious. Your flight’s been cancelled. You’re stuck at OR Tambo at 5am with no plan B and no idea when the next flight out is. An AI chatbot can suggest alternatives, but it can’t make the calls, pull the strings, or know which airline owes you a favour.

When it all hits the fan – whether that’s sudden illness, lost passports or surprise strikes – your AI travel assistant will provide information, but it won’t provide solutions.

Travel advisors, on the other hand, answer their phones. They’ve got local contacts, real-time updates, and enough muscle memory to rebook your trip while you’re still trying to find a power plug.

“A crisis is where human judgement matters most,” says Garrett. “AI can’t provide reassurance, make fast calls, or think emotionally. It doesn’t know when a client needs calming down or rerouting.”

AI doesn’t know what “4-star” means to a Saffa

A European “4-star” hotel can sometimes feel more basic than many South Africans expect – smaller rooms, minimal breakfast options, compact bathrooms. South Africans are accustomed to generous space, full breakfast spreads, and higher service standards at comparable star ratings.

“AI doesn’t understand the nuances,” says Garrett. “A 4-star hotel in Europe can feel smaller and more basic than a 3-star in Joburg. That’s important context for South Africans who’ve been spoiled by space and service.”

You can’t negotiate with ChatGPT

One of the most persistent myths about chatbots is that AI can find you the best deals.

It’ll give you rough estimates scraped from booking platforms. But it won’t know who to talk to for a room upgrade or honour your price if the exchange rate dips.

“People forget travel advisors still get you a lot of extras,” says Garrett. “We’re not just booking a hotel – we’re adding value. And we know which rooms are worth the rate.”

So how should you use AI?

Think of AI like enjoying a coffee with a mildly helpful friend. It’ll throw out suggestions – but it probably won’t nail the final plan.

Use AI tools to:

• Get a basic idea of where to go
• Research activities or general visa info (but always confirm latest visa requirements directly with the embassy or your travel advisor)
• Calculate distances and travel times
• Structure your wishlist into a bare bones draft itinerary

Don’t use AI to:

• Book accommodation or flights
• Plan travel logistics like transfers and ferry schedules
• Navigate special needs or real-time emergencies
• Compare the actual value of a deal, not just price
• Discover the off-the-radar experiences that make a trip unforgettable

The bottom line?

AI is useful for generating ideas, yes. It can introduce you to destinations you might never have thought of (hello, underrated Slovenia). But the moment you try to turn those ideas into real-world plans? You need an actual person, not 17 tabs’ worth of “maybe”.

There’s no substitute for local insight, human backup, and on-the-ground experience. Let AI help you brainstorm. Then run your shortlist by someone who’s been there, booked that – and still has the WhatsApp number of that hotel GM in Positano.

As Sue Garrett puts it: “AI is here to help, not replace. Use it to level up your trip but never forget the value of real-life expertise.”

SATSA, the voice of inbound tourism, encourages clear, reliable, and factual communication as parts of the Garden Route continue to experience water shortages and increased fire activity in the height of summer in South Africa

While these conditions are not uncommon at this time of year, the current situation requires heightened vigilance and coordinated response from both authorities and the tourism sector. Local authorities are actively managing water restrictions and fire preparedness measures to protect communities, visitors and essential services.

 Level 4 water restrictions are now in place in the Greater Knysna area, with contingency planning underway should conditions require further escalation. The Western Cape government has reported regional dam levels lower than at the same time last year and has expressed that early proactive measures are far more effective than emergency restrictions.

At the same time, emergency services remain vigilant as hot, dry, and windy weather continues to drive fire risk across the country. The Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality confirms that whilst fire incidents have increased since December, teams are successfully containing outbreaks and maintaining a high level of readiness.

Firefighting efforts continue in Mossel Bay and the municipality has urged the public to remain alert and avoid affected areas, allowing emergency services to operate safely.

Despite these pressures, tourism businesses across these regions remain open and operational. Industry-wide conservation measures, including water-saving protocols and guest education initiatives, have been adopted to ensure responsible resource use. The sector draws on extensive experience managing similar seasonal challenges in the past and is committed to maintaining high service standards whilst safeguarding the wellbeing of visitors and local communities.

What travellers should expect

Visitors may notice practical water conservation efforts – shorter showers, towel reuse programmes, and occasional low pressure. In areas affected by active fires, certain outdoor activities or routes may be temporarily restricted in line with official safety advisories. Route changes could also impact travel time.

Practical advice for visitors

• Contact your booking consultant or accommodation provider directly to understand current conditions and any adjustments
• Be mindful of water use in impacted areas and follow on-site conservation guidelines
• Pack with water conservation in mind – fewer outfit changes, quick showers
• Stay flexible with outdoor plans and monitor local emergency advisories
• Avoid areas where authorities advise against travel due to fire risk
• Continue supporting local businesses where it is safe and appropriate to do so

Useful contacts

Relevant municipal fire and water updates are available via official local authority channels. Some key contacts are listed below. We also recommend following local authorities on their social media channels to revise real-time updates.

Knysna Municipality – knysna.gov.za
George Municipality – george.gov.za
City of Cape Town – capetown.gov.za
Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality – nelsonmandelabay.gov.za

Mossel Bay Tourism – visitmosselbay.co.za By working directly with local authorities and maintaining credible information, we can safeguard local economies and ensure that visitors continue to have a positive and safe experience.

It’s currently winter, and South Africa is deep into its flu season, which, according to travel risk experts Global Rescue, is a key factor in increased health risks while travelling. While respiratory infections are present across the globe, the likelihood of catching something spikes in places with poor air quality and during peak flu periods. And peak flu periods change depending on where you’re going.

In the Southern Hemisphere, including South Africa, flu season typically runs from April to September. In the Northern Hemisphere, it’s most active between October and March, while in tropical regions, influenza can circulate all year long. So, if you’re jetting off to attend meetings in London, visit clients in Nairobi or attend a summit in New York, it’s worth checking what flu activity is like at your destination.

Travel itself already places a strain on the body. Long hours, less sleep, high stress levels, packed itineraries and prolonged exposure in crowded environments (like airports, airplanes and business venues) create the perfect storm for respiratory illnesses to spread. It’s no wonder why so many people find themselves under the weather halfway through a trip, and in a worst-case scenario, seriously ill while far from home.

Herman Heunes, GM of Corporate Traveller, believes this is a conversation companies need to prioritise with staff before they leave. “It’s important to check in with travellers about their current health, whether they’ve had their seasonal flu vaccination and if they have any pre-existing conditions that might put them at higher risk,” he says. According to the Journal of Travel Medicine, individuals at increased risk of influenza include those at the extremes of age and those who are immunocompromised.

He also emphasises the importance of having proper travel health insurance. “We’ve seen how unpredictable international travel can be, especially when health is involved. Ensuring your employees have the right insurance in place is just step one. Encouraging open dialogue about their wellbeing is just as critical,” he explains.

It’s also worth noting that flu vaccinations can provide significant protection – not just for the traveller, but for everyone they come into contact with abroad and back home. Health experts recommend getting vaccinated at least two weeks before departure to give the body time to build immunity. For those travelling to the Northern Hemisphere later in the year, a second flu jab aligned to that region’s seasonal strains might even be necessary.

When employees get sick mid-trip, the ripple effects can be costly, from cancelled or postponed meetings to extended accommodation and return delays. Companies who depend on their teams to represent them globally can’t afford to overlook these very real risks.

“There’s a human side to business travel that we must not forget,” Heunes adds. “Your traveller’s health isn’t a personal matter alone; it’s part of your duty of care responsibility to them.”

Pullman Cape Town has appointed Melissa Stevens as its new Executive Chef – a move that reinforces the hotel’s growing reputation as one of the city’s most food-forward hospitality brands.

With years of experience in some of South Africa’s most notable kitchens, including at Morgenster Estate, Stevens will step into her new role leading all culinary operations across the Pullman Cape Town property, from curated events to everyday dining experiences.

“My cooking has always been about comfort and connection,” says Stevens. “This role is an opportunity to bring that philosophy into an iconic space, with menus that evolve with seasonality while staying rooted in both simplicity and bold flavour.”

Her arrival comes at a pivotal moment for Pullman Cape Town’s food & beverage identity, which has continued to evolve since its inception in 2023. For example, the hotel recently opened Konnichiwa (a Japanese-style sushi bar already drawing local regulars) and participated in Restaurant Week South Africa.

Pullman Cape Town currently employs more women than men across its team – including several heads of department – making it well-positioned to support Accor’s Global commitment to gender equity through initiatives like #SheLeads. The programme celebrates inclusive leadership across Africa and the Middle East by spotlighting diverse voices shaping tomorrow’s hospitality landscape.

“As Cape Town grows its reputation on the global stage, we’re evolving with it – not just through design or service, but through who leads our spaces,” added Damons. “Our vision is rooted in inclusion. We believe diverse teams create richer experiences for everyone who walks through our doors.”

With brand-new menus being rolled out under Stevens’ guidance this season, guests won’t have to wait long to get a taste of what she brings to the table.

From elevated all-day dining at Stratus Room to handcrafted cocktails at Ghibli Bar & Rooftop Terrace and sushi-forward plates at Konnichiwa Lounge, Pullman Cape Town continues to strengthen its position as one of the city’s most dynamic hospitality and culinary destinations. The hotel also offers seven fully flexible meeting and event spaces, making it a preferred choice for those looking to balance business with lifestyle in the heart of Cape Town. Reservations for Stratus Room can be made via Dineplan. The restaurant is open from 06h30 – 22h00 daily.

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JOHANNESBURG – Social media is full of seemingly genius travel hacks. With a few swipes through #TravelTok, you’ll find how-tos on scoring business class seats for economy prices, sneaky ways to bypass baggage fees and “little-known” booking tricks that promise to save hundreds.

But while some of these tips might work for casual travellers or gap year backpackers, experts say tapping into TikTok’s travel advice can be risky.

“Social media has dramatically changed how people approach travel, but not all content is created with business needs in mind,” explains Herman Heunes, GM at Corporate Traveller. We reviewed some of TikTok’s most viral travel trends and asked Heunes whether they’re viable for business travellers.

The “Airport Theory”: Just Arrive 15 Minutes Before Departure

Originally intended as a poetic commentary on goodbyes, “Airport Theory” has taken on a life of its own. The revised trend advises arriving at the airport as close as possible to your flight departure to avoid lingering and “wasting time”.

In reality, cutting it that close introduces stress and the very real possibility of missing your flight – particularly if you’re travelling through busy hubs or unfamiliar airports.

“This strategy may appeal emotionally, but practically, it puts business travellers at risk,” says Heunes. “Even a minor disruption – traffic, a long security queue, or a gate change – can completely unwind your entire itinerary. Building in buffer time doesn’t waste your day, it protects it,” Heunes explains.

What to do instead:

• For domestic flights, arrive at least 90 minutes before departure. For international routes, allow 2 to 3 hours.
• Use airport time to prepare for meetings, review documents, or respond to emails.

Skiplagging: Exit at the Layover to Save Money

Skiplagging – booking a connecting flight but exiting during the first layover – has been praised by TikTok users as a loophole for accessing cheaper fares. But using this method as a business traveller could lead to cancelled remainder tickets, lost loyalty points, or even being banned by major carriers.

“Skiplagging violates airline terms and introduces unpredictability,” says Heunes. “On top of risking invalidated returns, it compromises your duty-of-care if your company needs to locate or reschedule your travel.”

What to do instead:

• If lower fares are a goal, use a trusted travel management company (TMC) to identify savings.
• Consider loyalty programmes and corporate fare agreements that offer long-term value.

Buying Points to Save on Business Class

TikTokers often point out that you can buy airline miles outright. In the right circumstances, that could mean scoring business seats for half the equivalent worth of points. Heunes agrees there is some truth here, but only for travellers who know how to navigate route-based pricing models and loyalty programme fine print.

“This approach requires research and timing, and is not always consistent across airlines,” he says. “But when done right, it can certainly reduce costs for travellers.”

What to do:

• Sign up for airline loyalty schemes and air miles credit cards where relevant.
• Monitor deal forums and official airline promotions for discounts on points.

Hiding Extra Baggage in a Pillowcase

Some TikTok users suggest disguising clothing in pillowcases or shopping bags to bypass strict carry-on policies, especially on low-cost airlines. Others recommend techniques like faking a shopping spree at duty-free stores to avoid charges. While it may technically work in some cases, Heunes argues it’s not a viable solution for professionals.

“This method can create awkward interactions at the gate,” he says. “It’s not worth saving a few rands if it risks creating logistical problems.”

What to do:

• Maximise your existing baggage allowance with smart packing and compression tools.
• Check if your corporate policy includes waivers or added benefits with preferred airlines.

Booking Flights on Tuesdays at Midnight

One of the most persistent myths is that airline fares drop significantly on Tuesday nights or Wednesday mornings. While flight prices do fluctuate, the impact of booking on a specific day tends to vary depending on route, seasonality and airline behaviour.

“There’s no universal rule, but there is merit to timing your bookings strategically,” Heunes explains.

What to do:

• Aim to book flights 4 to 6 weeks in advance to secure consistent pricing.
• Use fare alert tools, or work with a travel advisor who can flag discounts as they appear.

“Some of these strategies are harmless; others can completely derail a work trip,” says Heunes. “The most valuable travel hack of all? Planning ahead and relying on real-world travel expertise.

At Pullman Cape Town City Centre, Table Mountain views and world-class hospitality now come with an added layer of assurance – certification as one of the safest hotels in the world. The hotel has achieved Safehotels Premium Certification, placing it among the world’s most secure and well-prepared properties, where exceptional safety protocols meet uncompromising attention to guest wellbeing.

Safehotels conducts independent audits to certify hotels that meet the highest security standards, work with leading international hotel chains and are recognised by corporate travellers and hotel buyers worldwide. Through partnerships with International SOS, a global leader in Health & Security Risk Management, and endorsements from organisations such as the United Nations Office for Disaster Risk Reduction (UNISDR) and the International Congress and Convention Association (ICCA), the certification is widely trusted as a benchmark for safety and preparedness.

Safehotels operates in 71 countries across 203 cities and is trusted by some of the world’s biggest hotel brands. Their Global Hotel Security Standard evaluates over 230 criteria on-site – including water quality testing, food hygiene protocols, fire prevention systems, emergency response plans, and staff training – to ensure internationally recognised safety standards.

“What sets Safehotels certification apart is its holistic approach. From the moment guests step into Pullman Cape Town, they’re wrapped in an invisible blanket of care that extends far beyond the usual hospitality touchpoints. While they might not see the measures that make their stay safer, they’ll feel the difference – whether they’re here for an adventure-packed holiday, a cruise stopover, or a business trip that needs to run like clockwork,” says Jaco Bekker, Security Manager at Pullman Cape Town City Centre.

“Achieving Safehotels Premium Certification demonstrates our commitment to going the extra mile regarding guest safety and wellbeing,” adds Bekker. “For corporate clients needing to demonstrate they are fulfilling duty-of-care obligations when sending employees abroad, as well as families simply seeking a relaxing holiday, this Safehotels certification provides a globally recognised standard of assurance regarding guest wellbeing.”

Safehotels certification aligns with Accor’s commitment to redefining hospitality across Africa. With ten more Accor properties set to achieve certification by 2025, Pullman Cape Town is helping set new global standards for guest wellbeing.

“As the first Pullman brand in South Africa by the Accor Group, we achieved Premium status within a year of opening. But Safehotels is about more than just compliance – it’s about our passion for hospitality and ensuring that every guest feels secure and comfortable from the moment they arrive,” explains Willie Williams, Area Director of Sales & Marketing at Accor – Pullman Cape Town.

“Our guests are here to enjoy Cape Town at its best. They should be able to focus on making memories rather than worrying about safety or health concerns. This certification reflects our dedication to providing peace of mind so guests can fully enjoy everything this incredible city offers,” he adds.

“When a guest stays with us, they can rest assured that everything – from water quality and hotel dining to the rooftop pool and food hygiene in our four restaurants and bars – meets the highest international standards of fire, life, and safety,” concludes Williams.