The expanded schedule marks a significant boost to the destination’s air connectivity, enhancing travel options and supporting continued growth in visitor arrivals from key international markets.

The additional service will operate as part of the airline’s winter schedule, with the second daily flight arriving at Seychelles International Airport at 4:20 p.m. and departing for Addis Ababa at 5:50 p.m. The route will be served by a Boeing 737 aircraft, configured with 16 Business Class seats and 138 Economy Class seats, adding more than 1,000 seats per week to the market.

Ethiopian Airlines currently operates a daily non-stop service between Addis Ababa and Mahé.

Flights depart Addis Ababa Bole International Airport at 9:30 a.m. local time and land in Seychelles at 2.20 p.m., after a flight of approximately three hours and 50 minutes. The return flight bound for Addis leaves at 5.15p.m. Passengers are able to enjoy the airline’s full range of onboard services, including meals, in-flight entertainment and the ShebaMiles frequent flyer programme.

Welcoming the announcement, Chief Executive Officer of the Seychelles Tourism Board, Vesna Rakic, described the additional service as a significant milestone in strengthening the destination’s international air connectivity.

“Ethiopian Airlines has become an important partner in Seychelles’ efforts to diversify its source markets, and the introduction of more than 1,000 additional seats per week will provide a welcome boost to the destination,” she said.

“The additional capacity, particularly during the festive season, will offer travellers greater flexibility and more options when planning their holidays. It aligns perfectly with our market diversification strategy and our objective of improving accessibility to Seychelles.”

– Ends –

About Tourism Seychelles

Tourism Seychelles is the official destination marketing organisation for the Seychelles Islands. Committed to showcasing the islands’ unique natural beauty, cultural heritage, and luxurious experiences, Tourism Seychelles plays a pivotal role in promoting Seychelles as a premier travel destination worldwide.

“Listening to our guests and delivering exceptional experiences across our fleet is at the heart of what we do,” said Marc Kazlauskas, president of Norwegian Cruise Line. “These recent transformations bring some of our most beloved amenities to Norwegian Jade and Norwegian Gem, creating greater consistency across our fleet while giving guests more ways to personalise their vacation — from adults-only outdoor spaces to serene relaxation areas designed to help them unwind at sea.”

Expanded Thermal Suite Experiences at Mandara Spa & Salon

Redesigned with guest feedback in mind, the refreshed Thermal Suite aboard Norwegian Jade and Norwegian Gem now feature three times as many of the popular hot tile loungers, a more centralised layout with an upgraded reception area, updated steam rooms and saunas, and new relaxing and reinvigorating experiences, including:

• A Charcoal Sauna thatutilises a radiant heat system with an outer charcoal layer with potential benefits of boosting circulation and releasing toxins from the body. Its warming properties reduce muscle stiffness and tension.
• An Ice Room with cold air invigorates the respiratory tract.
• The Salt Room benefitsskin health and induces deep relaxation.
• An IV Lounge, which has become an increasingly popular treatment to quickly deliver essential nutrients to the body.
• Four-Senses Loungers providethe ultimate sensory experience for deep relaxation and tranquility.

Additionally, Norwegian Jade offers brand-new Experiential Showers, featuring multiple water jets and lighting effects to help invigorate the body, as well as a Plunge Pool for brief cold-water immersion to accelerate muscle recovery, boost circulation and leave guests feeling refreshed and revitalised.  Norwegian Gem provides an updated hot tub and Thalassotherapy pool which uses massage jets, bubble loungers and countercurrents to detoxify the body and soothe joint pain.

Debut of Popular Adults-Only Vibe Beach Club & Starbucks

Both Norwegian Jade and Norwegian Gem now provide an adults-only respite with the guest-favourite Vibe Beach Club, repurposing the existing sundeck on deck 14. This exclusive outdoor oasis offers expansive ocean views, a private full-service bar, an additional hot tub, over 50 premium lounge chairs and seven new private cabanas for guests to unwind in style.

As the first in the cruise industry to offer the world’s most recognised coffee brand – Starbucks^® – across its entire fleet and private destinations, NCL adds an all-new licensed store aboard Norwegian Jade, making it easy for guests to enjoy the same favourite hot and cold handcrafted beverages, seasonal blends and sweet and savory food items as they do at their neighborhood store.   

Summer Escapes to Europe and Alaska

Now through late summer 2026, Norwegian Jade offers a series of seven-day sailings from Vancouver, British Columbia and Whittier (Anchorage), Alaska with scenic cruising through the Inside Passage and glacier regions, as well as visits to Ketchikan, Juneau, Skagway and Icy Strait Point, Alaska. Meanwhile, aboard Norwegian Gem, guests can dive into the rich history and vibrant culture of the Mediterranean and Greek Isles on a variety of voyages departing from Rome (Civitavecchia) or Venice (Ravenna), Italy while visiting ports such as Cannes, France; Florence/Pisa (Livorno), Italy; Split and Dubrovnik, Croatia; and some of the most sought-after islands in Greece. As the year progresses into late 2026, Norwegian Gem offers fun-in-sun cruises to the Caribbean and Bahamas from Tampa, Fla., while Norwegian Jade returns to Asia for immersive, bucket-list worthy voyages.

For more information about the Company’s award-winning fleet and worldwide itineraries, or to book a cruise, please contact a travel professional, call +27 087 550 3914 or visit www.ncl.com.

Despite fares rising by between 10% and 50% on many routes, only 10% of South African travellers have cancelled their holiday plans, according to a survey conducted by the Association of Southern African Travel Agents and Advisors (ASATA). That says everything about the South African traveller’s relationship with travel. But absorbing a crisis and navigating it intelligently are two very different things.

“The fuel crisis is real, and, in some cases, the cost increases are significant, but South Africans are still travelling,” says Sue Garrett, GM Supply, Pricing & Marketing at Flight Centre South Africa. “Our job is to help them do it smartly.”

Here’s what you actually need to know before your next booking decision.

What’s driving the price increases?

Jet fuel more than doubled in price between late February and early April 2026, following the closure of the Strait of Hormuz, a critical artery for global oil supply. The Middle East accounts for roughly 41% of European aviation fuel imports, and that supply has been severely disrupted.

The knock-on effects have been significant: 13,000 flights cut globally in May alone, nearly two million seats removed from the market, and Lufthansa announcing 20,000 cancellations through October. Closer to home, jet fuel at South African inland airports jumped 115% month-on-month as of 1 April, with coastal airports up 145%, and FlySafair’s temporary fuel surcharges rose nearly 400% in March.

A recent dip in global oil prices followed ceasefire talks, but experts are clear: even if the Strait fully reopens, it will take months for pricing to normalise. The fuel arriving at South African ports today was purchased at higher prices, so relief, when it comes, will be slow.

Should you wait, or book now?

Book now – and here’s why.

Capacity is being removed from the market while South African demand remains high. Less supply plus sustained demand points in one direction only: higher fares. The travellers waiting for clarity are, in most cases, waiting for prices to rise.

The good news? You can lock in today’s fares for travel up to 12 months out. For peak-season travel (school holidays and long weekends), Garrett says that booking four to six months in advance is advisable, as seats fill quickly.

“From a currency perspective, the rand is currently sitting at around R16.34* to the dollar, which is meaningfully stronger than the R17–R18 range South Africans were navigating for much of the past two years. That makes now a relatively favourable moment to lock in international fares. Waiting for a better rate is a gamble, and fare increases could easily outpace any rand strengthening,” Garrett explains.

One important note from Flight Centre’s Travel Experts: quote and ticket on the same day, particularly on international routes. Fares can shift between quote and purchase, and in the current environment, that gap can be costly.

Where is the value right now?

Surprisingly, some of the most competitive fares currently available are on routes that travellers might be avoiding out of lingering uncertainty.

Emirates has confirmed that 96% of its global network has been restored, and Qatar Airways is targeting more than 150 destinations from mid-June. Both carriers are currently offering fares that, on certain routes, are lower than pre-conflict February levels – in some cases, over 60% cheaper than non-Gulf alternatives on the same routes.

According to Garrett, for long-haul travel, Asia is currently the most competitively priced destination, with fares ranging from approximately R11,000 to R15,000 per person return, making countries like Thailand and India consistent value picks despite the broader disruption.

“Carrier selection has become one of the most important conversations we’re having with clients right now,” she says. “South African travellers who are still defaulting to non-Gulf alternatives out of lingering uncertainty are, in many cases, paying a significant premium for a risk that has materially diminished.”

The surcharge conversation nobody is having

When you see an advertised fare, it rarely tells the full story. Fuel surcharges appear on your ticket as YQ (fuel surcharge) or YR (carrier-imposed charges), and on some international routes, these charges alone exceed the base fare.

Surcharges are proportionally higher on longer flights, which means domestic and regional African travel is currently meaningfully more affordable relative to long-haul, simply because the surcharge component is smaller.

“The critical thing to know is that surcharges are fixed at the date of ticketing, not the date of travel. If you book today, you are protected against any future surcharge increases – unless you change your ticket – another compelling reason not to wait,” Garrett comments.

“Always compare the total ticket cost, not the advertised price. What looks like a cheap fare can carry a surcharge that significantly changes the picture,” she adds.

Flexible fares: worth it or not?

With 57% of South African travellers worried about losing money on non-refundable bookings, the flexible fare question is front of mind, and rightly so.

A flexible fare will typically cost R3,000–R8,000 more than the cheapest standard economy fare on the same route, depending on the airline and season. Whether that premium is worth it depends on your circumstances, but in an environment where airlines are cutting flights and adjusting schedules, the cost of inflexibility has rarely been more visible.

There is, however, a middle path worth knowing about. Emirates and Qatar Airways are currently offering complimentary date-change options on new bookings – a direct response to the uncertainty of the current environment. In practice, this typically means one or two permitted changes, with restrictions around ticketing and travel dates, and you would still pay any fare difference if the new fare were higher. The specifics vary and are changing frequently, so confirm the exact terms at the time of booking.

Travel insurance: the detail that matters most

Approximately 20% of South African travellers are now actively opting for “Cancel for Any Reason” (CFAR) insurance, even at a premium. If you’re considering it, there’s one rule that overrides everything else, according to Flight Centre’s Travel Experts:

Buy your travel insurance on the same day you pay your first deposit.

Pre-existing condition waivers and CFAR cover typically expire within 14 to 21 days of deposit. Miss that window and you may find yourself with a standard policy that doesn’t cover the scenarios you’re most concerned about.

“CFAR is an add-on to a comprehensive travel insurance policy, not a standalone product. It allows you to cancel for any reason and receive a partial reimbursement – typically 50–75% of pre-paid, non-refundable trip costs, which significantly reduces your exposure,” Garrett explains.

The case for not going it alone

“Travellers no longer want to navigate the current landscape alone,” says Otto de Vries, CEO of ASATA. “They want a professional in their corner who can guarantee flexibility and provide a safety net. No app or online booking platform can call an airline at midnight, fight for a refund, or redesign an itinerary in real time.”

Flight Centre’s own research, conducted before the conflict began, found that 97% of South African travel intenders see value in using a travel agent – the highest proportion of any market surveyed globally. In a Middle East crisis that has doubled jet fuel prices and made the cost of a wrong booking decision more consequential than ever, that instinct is well-founded.

South Africans haven’t stopped travelling, but the gap between travelling smart and travelling blind has rarely been wider.

*Based on ZAR/USD exchange rates on 25 May 2026.

The return of these services, beginning this week with Qatar Airways on 16 June and Turkish Airlines on 17 June, significantly enhances global connectivity and visitor access during the traditionally quieter summer months.

Qatar Airways is the first of the three carriers to resume operations to Seychelles this summer, with its return to Seychelles International Airport at Pointe Larue marking the start of an expanded summer schedule. From 16 June 2026, the airline will operate four weekly flights on Tuesdays, Thursdays, Saturdays, and Sundays, further strengthening Seychelles’ links through Doha and providing convenient connections to more than 150 destinations worldwide.

Adding to the positive momentum, Turkish Airlines has resumed flights to Seychelles, marking its first summer operation to the destination in three years. Previously, the airline served Seychelles seasonally between late October and March before suspending services during the summer period. The carrier will operate three weekly flights using an Airbus A330-300, connecting Seychelles to Istanbul; one of the world’s largest aviation hubs and a key gateway to Europe, Asia, the Middle East, and North America.

As Turkish Airlines reintroduces its summer programme, the airline has implemented minor schedule adjustments during the initial launch period for commercial reasons. Until the week commencing 6 July, flights will operate twice weekly on Wednesdays and Sundays. Thereafter, the airline will increase operations with an additional weekly flight on Fridays, bringing the total to three flights per week.

The Russian market will also receive a welcome boost with Aeroflot scheduled to resume services on 8 July 2026. The airline will operate two weekly flights on Wednesdays and Saturdays, restoring additional seat capacity from one of Seychelles’ important source markets and providing greater travel options for Russian visitors seeking direct access to the islands. Commenting on the enhanced connectivity, Seychelles Tourism Board Chief Executive Officer, Ms Vesna Rakic, said:

“At a time of intense global competition for travellers, the decision by Qatar Airways, Turkish Airlines and Aeroflot to expand their presence in Seychelles is a strong endorsement of our destination. Improved air connectivity is key to tourism growth, giving travellers more choice while strengthening access from Europe, the Middle East, Asia and Russia.”

She further added; “We sincerely thank our airline partners for their continued confidence in Seychelles. Their support is essential to maintaining strong international links and driving the success of our tourism industry. We are also encouraged by ongoing discussions within the aviation sector, with the potential for further positive developments in connectivity. While official confirmations are still pending, the outlook is highly promising. Together with our airline and trade partners, we remain focused on driving demand and supporting the long-term success of air services to Seychelles. “

With increased summer capacity from key international gateways, Seychelles is reinforcing its position as one of the most accessible island destinations in the Indian Ocean. Improved air access remains a critical factor in driving visitor arrivals, and the additional capacity provided by these airlines will support demand from multiple markets while offering greater flexibility and convenience for travellers choosing Seychelles.

Beginning today, all guests sailing to Great Stirrup Cay on or after Sept. 4, 2026 can purchase day passes* to Great Tides Waterpark and personalise their ideal island day with seamless, advance booking. Elevating the experience even further, guests can reserve private cabanas for up to six guests, which includes admission into the waterpark and offers shaded comfort just steps from the park’s signature Tidal Tower featuring jaw-dropping slides, perfect for relaxing between thrills. Additionally, the waterpark experience extends beyond the 19 exhilarating slides with three all-new food trucks serving a dynamic lineup of dining.

“Great Stirrup Cay continues to evolve as the premier private island destination in the Bahamas, and we’re excited to officially open Great Tides Waterpark on Sept. 4, 2026,” said Marc Kazlauskas, president of Norwegian Cruise Line. “With the best activities for families and for every type of traveller—from high-energy slides to laid-back lagoon experiences—guests can now purchase their day passes ahead and lock in an unforgettable day on the most spectacular private island in the Caribbean.”

Spanning nearly six acres, Great Tides Waterpark will deliver a bold, family-friendly adventure across immersive attractions for all ages. At its center will stand the 170-foot Tidal Tower, featuring the Breakwater Blasters—industry-first water coasters with downhill drops and uphill blasts within an inner tube—alongside the Whitewater Dash with two body slides; Rapid Mat Racers featuring two mat slides; and a selection of tube slides, Tropic Storm and Tropic Spiral, with spirals and spins for an adrenaline rush.

Additional highlights will include Cliffside Cove, home to the industry’s first and highest cliff jumps; The Great Slide, the Caribbean’s only four-person body slide; Fearless Falls racing slides; and the hidden Grotto Bar tucked beneath the action for prime viewing. Younger guests will be able to splash through Splash Cay, a 9,000-square-foot kids’ zone, while adventure seekers can float along the Wandering River, an over 800-foot, high-energy take on the classic lazy river. The waterpark builds on the recent transformation of Great Stirrup Cay, which includes the expansive Great Life Lagoon, featuring a beach-style entry pool, swim-up bars and ample space to unwind with ocean views. Guests can also elevate their day at the adults-only Vibe Shore Club, enjoy family-friendly offerings like Splash Harbor and explore the island with ease with the island’s latest tram system.

Travellers can visit Great Stirrup Cay year-round, with voyages sailing seasonally from convenient homeports including New York and Philadelphia as well as Florida ports in Jacksonville, Tampa, Orlando (Port Canaveral) and Miami.

Guests wanting to celebrate the grand opening of the waterpark can embark on Norwegian Luna’s seven-day Caribbean sailing from Miami on Aug. 29, 2026. Norwegian Luna offers itineraries through November 2026 with visits to Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic; St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands; and Tortola, British Virgin Islands as well as Great Stirrup Cay — perfectly pairing the latest ship innovation with NCL’s newest island experience. For shorter sailings from Miami, Norwegian Getaway offers three- and four-night voyages to the Bahamas through October 2026.

Guests may purchase a pass to Great Tides Waterpark by logging into their myNCL account after completing their cruise reservation.

For more information about the Company’s award-winning fleet and worldwide itineraries, or to book a cruise, please contact a travel professional, call +27 087 550 3914 or visit www.ncl.com.

*Tickets and pricing will vary based on seasonality and availability.  For additional information on pricing and age requirements, visit www.ncl.com

What happened next depended almost entirely on one decision that had been made weeks or months earlier, in a moment when everything still felt certain: how these travellers had booked their trip.

Had they booked through a travel agent – someone they could call immediately for support and damage control – or had they decided to go it alone?

What the airlines did right

Emirates and Qatar Airways, whose hubs in Dubai and Doha were most directly affected by the Middle East airspace closures, responded with speed, transparency, and genuine passenger care that set a very high standard. According to Sue Garrett, GM Supply, Pricing and Marketing at Flight Centre South Africa, the airlines communicated full refunds by 10am on the same morning the airspace closed, and they extended rebooking windows repeatedly as the situation remained uncertain. Furthermore, contact centres operated 24/7 throughout, including during Ramadan, when extended hours would not normally apply.

“Emirates ran open-forum webinars for travel agents the same afternoon policies were issued, and Qatar’s country manager in South Africa was communicating directly with Flight Centre via WhatsApp, ensuring agents had accurate, current information to pass on to clients,” comments Garrett.

This exceptional response during times of crisis matters. Because what follows is not an argument that the airlines failed, but about something more precise and more important.

The gap between communication and guidance

Good airline communication tells you what has happened. But it’s your travel agent who tells you what to do next.

When an airline notifies you that your flight has been cancelled, it can offer you two options: a refund or rebooking on the next available service. What it cannot tell you is which of those options is right for your specific situation – whether your onward connection can be salvaged or your hotel booking is recoverable, whether your travel insurance covers the additional night’s accommodation, or whether an alternative carrier has availability on your routing that would get you home faster than waiting for the airline’s next service.

“When a journey has already commenced and disruption strikes, the airline is the right first call. They’re best placed to manage the immediate flight situation,” explains Zay Ferguson-Nair, Customer Experience Leader at Flight Centre South Africa. “But the moment that’s resolved, the travel agent steps in to manage everything else, including the hotel extension, the car hire, the onward connection, and the insurance claim. Those are the moving parts that fall through the cracks when there’s no one coordinating them.”

That coordination happened automatically for travellers who had booked through a travel agent. For those who had booked directly, whether with the airline or through an online platform, the coordination was their responsibility – in an unfamiliar city, exhausted and stressed, with a phone full of conflicting information and a queue stretching the length of the terminal.

The moment that made it real

Among the thousands of South Africans navigating the disruption, one case stayed with Garrett.

A South African passenger had been stranded mid-route in Singapore. It was Sunday and she needed to be home by Tuesday for dialysis.

“I was trying to reach Emirates’ contact centre,” Garrett recalls. “When I finally got through, a supervisor called me back personally. We explained the situation, and without hesitation, they worked with us to confirm a seat on an alternative carrier, getting the client home in time for her treatment.”

What made that outcome possible was the combination of an airline supervisor willing to exercise human judgment, and a travel agent who knew who to call and how to make the case. Remove either element and the outcome changes.

What South Africans already know, and the data that proves it

Flight Centre’s Global PR Survey found that 97% of South African travel intenders see value in using a travel agent – the highest endorsement of any market surveyed globally. 66% cite expertise and knowledge as the primary value, 62% cite peace of mind if things change or go wrong, as well as reduced stress by having someone taking care of everything, and 54% value assistance with complex or multi-destination itineraries.

South African travel intenders are also the most likely of any market globally to trust travel experts as a source of travel advice – ahead of social media and significantly ahead of AI tools. Rather than blind loyalty, that trust is the accumulated evidence of what expert guidance actually delivers both in normal times and in moments of crisis.

“South Africans have always understood instinctively that having someone in your corner makes a difference. What the past few months have done is provide the clearest possible demonstration of what that difference actually looks like in practice,” says Garrett.

What’s ahead?

The Middle East crisis will resolve. Its timeline remains uncertain, but its eventual conclusion is not. When it does, the travel environment South Africans return to will be more complex than the one they left, with more routing options, carriers, variables to navigate, and AI tools promising to simplify what they often complicate.

The question of what human expertise actually delivers has never been more relevant.

So, book with someone who knows what to do when things go wrong. Because, as recent events have proven, things go wrong.

The event, titled “Unlocking Regional Connectivity: Rethinking How Southern Africa Moves Its Visitors,” will take place on 13 May 2026 at the Inkosi Albert Luthuli ICC Complex in Durban, South Africa. Supported by the Department of Tourism, Republic of South Africa, and co-funded by the German Government and the European Union (EU), the dialogue is implemented by the SADC Secretariat through the Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ) GmbH.

Southern Africa’s tourism potential is vast and compelling, offering diverse experiences across its 16 Member States. Yet fragmented travel, limited air routes, varying visa requirements, and border inefficiencies have slowed progress. The SADC Tourism Programme 2020–2030 identifies connectivity as the foundation for growth, and this event is designed to move beyond reporting progress into dynamic, solution-driven dialogue. By uniting policymakers and private sector leaders, the session will focus on practical strategies to position Southern Africa as a seamless, multi-country destination that is easy to explore and attractive to global travellers.

The two-hour programme will open with a structured update on the SADC Tourism Programme, highlighting progress on the Univisa assessment, regional air access studies, Transfrontier Conservation Area development, and border efficiency initiatives. A government panel of Directors General and senior officials will then explore visa policy, air services agreements, and border management frameworks. This will be followed by a private sector panel where industry leaders will challenge assumptions and propose commercially viable solutions. Confirmed panellists include Mr Aaron Munetsi, CEO of the Airlines Association of Southern Africa; Ms Dimakatso Malwela of Women of Value Southern Africa (WOVSA); Ms Jillian Blackbeard of Africa’s Eden; Mr Tshifhiwa Tshivhengwa, CEO of the Tourism Business Council of South Africa (TBCSA) and Chair of the Southern Africa Tourism Alliance. Audience members will be able to participate in real time through a digital platform. Both panels will be moderated by Ms Natalia Rosa of the Southern Africa Tourism Alliance.

Ms Angele Makombo N’tumba, Deputy Executive Secretary for Regional Integration at the SADC Secretariat, emphasised: “Regional connectivity is the foundation on which the entire SADC Tourism Programme rests. This side event provides an important platform for government and private sector to engage directly on the realities of moving visitors across our region, and to identify where we can accelerate progress together.”

Ms Natalia Rosa of the Southern Africa Tourism Alliance added: “The private sector experiences the consequences of connectivity gaps every day, in lost bookings, itineraries that cannot be built, and visitors who choose other regions because Southern Africa is too complicated to navigate. This event is our opportunity to bring that commercial reality into direct conversation with policymakers. We are not here to report on progress. We are here to challenge each other on pace.”

The event is open to private sector CEOs and senior executives, national tourism association leaders, SADC Secretariat officials, Tourism Working Group members, airline and aviation stakeholders, civil aviation authorities, border management and immigration officials, development finance and investment representatives, development partners and tourism media.

For more information contact:
Ms Barbara Lopi, Head of Communication and Public Relations, SADC Secretariat – Email: blopi@sadc.int and cc: prinfo@sadc.int  or Ms Marygoreth Mushi, Programme Officer for Policy and Market Development – Email: mmushi@sadc.int  and cc: prinfo@sadc.int or Ms Natalia Rosa, Project Lead, Southern Africa Tourism Alliance – Tel: (+27) 83 449 4334, Email: natalia.rosa@thenbf.co.za

Issued by the SADC Secretariat, 7 May 2026

Conducted between 20 and 28 April 2026, the survey captured responses from travel agencies across South Africa, providing a detailed snapshot of conditions on the ground during one of the most operationally complex periods the industry has faced since COVID-19.

As global flight schedules fluctuate and capacity tightens, the cost of travel has risen sharply, driven by rising oil prices, limited availability and the need to reroute away from affected airspace. A combined 75% of travel agencies report their clients are facing price increases of between 10% and 50%.

Despite this financial pressure, outright cancellations remain low at just 10%. Instead, travellers are choosing to absorb the costs, reroute, or postpone their journeys.

To navigate this chaos and mitigate financial risk, travellers are abandoning DIY online bookings and leaning heavily on professional travel advisors. With 57% of clients worried about losing money on non-refundable bookings, the demand for flexibility has surged. Travellers are relying on the expertise of travel advisors to decode complex airline policies, secure highly flexible tickets, and ensure their investments are protected when schedules change.

“Booking behaviour has shifted significantly in response to the current uncertainty,” says Otto de Vries, CEO of ASATA. “We are seeing 36% of clients delaying their bookings until the very last minute to avoid sudden disruptions, while another 29% are booking much further in advance to secure scarce inventory. But what stands out most is that travellers no longer want to navigate this alone. They want a professional in their corner who can guarantee flexibility and provide a safety net.”

Key survey findings reveal a shift in consumer priorities:

• Cautious Optimism: 55% of travel advisors describe their clients as ‘cautiously optimistic’, with the majority still intending to travel for the upcoming holiday seasons.
• June/July Holiday Outlook: While 42% of agencies report that their clients still intend to travel this mid-year break, actual booking volumes are currently taking a hit. A third of agencies (33%) are seeing year-on-year booking declines, largely because 22% of clients are adopting a ‘wait-and-see’ approach before committing financially.
• Top Traveller Concerns: Clients are primarily worried about flight delays (79%), increased costs (77%), and losing money on non-refundable bookings (57%).
• Demand for Flexibility: Driven by these fears, 20% of clients are now actively demanding highly flexible fares or ‘Cancel for Any Reason’ insurance policies, regardless of the premium.

Recognising their critical role in this climate, 70% of South African travel agencies have updated or are actively reviewing their crisis communication and duty of care procedures to better protect their clients.

“No app or online booking platform can call an airline at midnight, fight for a refund, or redesign an itinerary in real time,” says De Vries. “Our members have been doing exactly that for weeks. This crisis has made one thing abundantly clear: in an uncertain world, the expertise and human judgement of a professional travel advisor is irreplaceable. With 57% worried about losing money on non-refundable bookings and prices up by as much as 50%, the stakes are too high to go it alone.” 

– Set to Debut in May 2027, Norwegian Aura Will Deliver Elevated, Multi-Generational Experiences from the All‑New Ocean Heights™ Activity Complex to Expanded Pool Decks and Dedicated Family‑Friendly Outdoor Spaces –

Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL), the innovator in global cruise travel, together with its longtime shipbuilding partner Fincantieri S.p.A, celebrated the float out of Norwegian Aura™, marking a construction milestone for the cruise company’s largest and most illuminating vessel to date.

The float out, which took place at Fincantieri’s shipyard in Monfalcone, Italy, marks the first time Norwegian Aura touched water, signifying the completion of the ship’s external hull construction. Following this milestone, the ship’s interior development will continue progressing to the next phase ahead of her debut in the spring of 2027. To commemorate the occasion and honour maritime tradition, two ceremonial coins were welded into Norwegian Aura’s hull during a traditional coin ceremony, symbolising good fortune and safe passage for the ship, her crew and future guests.

“Norwegian Aura’s float out is a proud and meaningful moment for our entire team,” said Marc Kazlauskas, president of Norwegian Cruise Line. “She builds on the legacy of our award-winning Prima Class while taking our commitment to thoughtfully designed guest‑first experiences even further. Created in close partnership with Fincantieri, the ship is purposefully constructed to deliver an elevated, multi‑generational vacation experience, with expansive outdoor spaces like Ocean Heights™, that brings families and friends together for fun-filled days. With her flexible, open‑air design, Norwegian Aura is exceptionally well suited for Caribbean itineraries, offering the perfect balance of high‑energy fun, relaxation and an effortless escape for guests of all ages.”

When she enters service, Norwegian Aura will set a new benchmark for NCL. Nearly 1,130 feet long and approximately 170,000 gross tons, the ship is 10% larger than her predecessors, Norwegian Aqua® and Norwegian Luna™. She will feature over 1,970 well-appointed staterooms accommodating approximately 3,880 guests at double occupancy.

At the heart of Norwegian Aura’s onboard experience will be Ocean Heights, an all-new open-air activities complex designed as a true multi-generational hub. Guests can enjoy the most slides of any NCL ship, including Eclipse Racers, the Company’s first dueling waterslides; Aura Free Fall, a drop-in body waterslide that plunges guests down exhilarating twists and turns; and The Wave, a pendulum-style raft slide designed to accommodate up to four guests. Nearby, guests will discover the 82-foot Aura Ropes Course, a 25-foot rock-climbing wall, and Aura Midway, which offers easygoing fun with carnival-style games. At night, the activity zone will transform into a visual spectacle with immersive lighting and LED projections for a more relaxed, social atmosphere.

Norwegian Aura will introduce an expanded pool deck more than 20% larger than her predecessors, with additional seating, an extra hot tub, open lounge areas and a nearby Kids’ Aqua Park, creating more space for families to relax and play together. Adults seeking a quieter escape can retreat to the ever-popular Vibe Beach Club, the exclusive adults-only outdoor lounge. An enhanced Ocean Boulevard, extended by 11%, will wrap around the ship’s hull on deck eight with new hot tubs, seating and social spaces.  Debuting family‑friendly hubs ensure flexible ways for guests of every generation to enjoy time together or apart with Adventure Alley for kids aged six to 10, Little Explorer’s Cove for the youngest sailors and a dedicated purpose‑built Teen Hangout.  

“Norwegian Aura’s float out marks a highly symbolic and operationally significant milestone in our shared journey with Norwegian Cruise Line,” said Luigi Matarazzo, general manager of Fincantieri’s Merchant Ships Division. “This vessel reflects the strength of a long-standing partnership and our ability to turn design vision and innovation into tangible solutions, helping to redefine onboard experience for future generations of guests.”

Norwegian Aura will set sail on her maiden voyage on May 21, 2027, with a seven-day Mediterranean voyage departing from Trieste, Italy and calling to iconic ports in Italy and Malta, before embarking on a 14-day transatlantic crossing to the United States. Beginning June 10, 2027, she will homeport in Miami and offer a variety of seven-day voyages to the Eastern Caribbean and Western Caribbean with visits to the Company’s resort-style island destinations Great Stirrup Cay in the Bahamas and Harvest Caye in Belize through March 2028.

When Norwegian Aura calls to Great Stirrup Cay for the first time in June 2027, guests will step ashore to a fully enhanced and more accessible private island experience, supported by a new multi-ship pier, a welcome plaza, and a tram service that makes moving from ship-to-shore and around the island easier than ever. Highlights available on Great Stirrup Cay include the Great Life Lagoon, a resort-style pool area with two swim-up bars, cabanas and lounge chairs, alongside the nearby Splash Harbor, offering aquatic fun for kids.  It also features the adults-only Vibe Shore Club, a private beachfront retreat with premium seating and cabanas; and the soon-to-debut Great Tides Waterpark, a nearly six-acre attraction featuring 19 waterslides, cliffside jumps, a kids’ splash zone and an immersive river experience—ensuring a seamless, flexible island day for guests of all ages, from arrival to departure.

For more information about the Company’s award-winning fleet and worldwide itineraries, or to book a cruise, please contact a travel professional, call +27 087 550 3914 or visit www.ncl.com.

Preferred Hotels & Resorts, the world’s largest independent hotel brand representing more than 625 luxury hotels, resorts, and residences across 80 countries, is strengthening its presence across Africa with continued strategic expansion. The announcement comes against a backdrop of significant regional momentum, with the brand recording a 32% increase in bookings, a 55% rise in room nights, 73% growth in revenue, and a 12% increase in average daily rate across its African portfolio year-on-year. 

The brand’s regional portfolio now spans 37 member properties across nine countries – South Africa, Kenya, Morocco, Egypt, Equatorial Guinea, Tanzania, Mauritius, Madagascar, and Ghana. 

“Africa remains a priority growth market for our brand, and the numbers reflect that,” said Saurabh Rai, Executive Vice President, South Asia, Middle East & Africa at Preferred Hotels & Resorts. “We are seeing sustained, meaningful demand across key African destinations, driven by international travellers seeking longer, more experience-led stays. Our continued expansion is a direct response to that demand, and we are committed to deepening our footprint through partnerships that champion the very best of independent African luxury.”

Building on strong momentum from 2025, Preferred Hotels & Resorts has expanded its African portfolio with the addition of 11 new properties between Q4 2025 and Q1 2026. That includes two new hotel launches in Zanzibar and South Africa and five luxury Nile River cruise experiences in Egypt, representing the largest single period of portfolio growth the brand has seen in Africa in many years. 

Growth in the region is being seen across various destinations, with South Africa, particularly Cape Town and Kruger National Park, continuing to see strong demand from international leisure and luxury travellers alongside a steady recovery in the MICE segment. East Africa is recording growth in safari and experiential travel, with increased interest from European and North American markets, while the Indian Ocean Islands continue to see consistent demand for luxury beach extensions, frequently combined with safari itineraries. 

Expansion of Preferred Hotels & Resorts’ prestigious Legend Collection also remains central to this strategy, with five standout properties across the continent, including Kasbah Tamadot in Morocco, Finch Hattons Luxury Safari Camp and Mahali Mzuri in Kenya, and Mont Rochelle and Ulusaba in South Africa. 

“We are proud to showcase Africa’s diversity through an exceptional portfolio of independent hotels,” added Celeste Vogel, Account Director for Africa at Preferred Hotels & Resorts. “Each new member brings a distinctive perspective on luxury, deeply rooted in local culture and authentic experiences. For travel agents across the region, this expanded portfolio, backed by dedicated on-the-ground support, competitive commission structures, and the full weight of Preferred’s global sales and marketing network, represents a genuine opportunity to offer their clients something truly differentiated.”

New Member Additions Across Africa (Q4 2025 – Q1 2026):

• ENVI Paje (Zanzibar, Tanzania) – Lifestyle Collection: Set to open in June on Zanzibar’s serene southeast coast, ENVI Paje is a design-forward eco-lodge blending barefoot luxury with holistic wellbeing. Centred on vitality, stillness, and connection, the retreat offers 22 nature-immersed villas, ocean-led dining, and a spa rooted in ancient and modern practices.  
• Lion in the Sun Boutique Hotel & Spa (Malindi, Kenya) – Lifestyle Collection: Nestled along Kenya’s Indian Ocean coastline, this boutique retreat offers just 16 rooms and suites, delivering a highly personalised, slow-living experience centred on wellness and connection with Swahili charm. Guests can unwind at the spa, enjoy locally inspired dining, or explore curated experiences from beachside relaxation to safaris and cultural excursions. 
• Last Word Makanyane (Madikwe, South Africa) – Lifestyle Collection: Located within Madikwe Game Reserve, this exclusive new lodge will open on 1 July. Featuring eight luxury river-facing suites, guests can enjoy exceptional game viewing, including the Big Five, with twice-daily drives. Blending traditional South African design with modern comfort, the lodge offers gourmet dining and immersive nature encounters. The property joins five additional Last Word properties within the Preferred Hotels & Resorts portfolio across South Africa.
• Owloon Manor House (Paarl, South Africa) – Residences Collection: Situated in the heart of the Cape Winelands, Owloon Manor House offers a refined private residence experience designed for unhurried immersive stays. This exclusive-use estate comprises an eight-bedroom en-suite manor house and a separate two-bedroom heritage cottage, where timeless architecture meets contemporary comfort. Set amongst vineyards and orchards, the estate offers curated experiences such as private chef dining, bespoke wellness treatments, and outdoor pursuits including tennis, swimming, walking, and cycling, creating a deeply private and tailored escape in one of South Africa’s most evocative landscapes. 
• Yellowwood Cottage (Langebaan, South Africa) – Residences Collection: Set within the protected landscape of the West Coast National Park overlooking the lagoon, Yellowwood Cottage offers a rare off-grid coastal escape in the quiet hamlet of Churchhaven. This exclusive use-home features three en-suite bedrooms, along with a dedicated bunk-bedded children’s room with separate bathroom. Open-plan spaces and indoor–outdoor living frame uninterrupted views, with days shaped by immersion in the surrounding landscape – wildlife and birdwatching, paddleboarding, and stargazing. Personalised services are available on request, supporting a private retreat defined by seclusion, connection, and understated coastal beauty.
• Coral Sea Holiday Resort, Encora Collection (Sharm El Sheikh, Egypt) – Lifestyle Collection: A vibrant Red Sea beachfront resort, Coral Sea Holiday Resort combines upscale comfort with family-friendly energy. With 484 rooms, including swim-up options, it caters to all travel styles. Highlights include a lively aqua park, diverse international dining, and a full-service wellness centre. Guests can enjoy activities ranging from sports and entertainment to kids’ programs, making it a dynamic destination for both relaxation and adventure.
• Encora Collection Cruises (Egypt) – Lifestyle Collection: This collection introduces five exceptional Nile cruise experiences, blending Red Sea resort elegance with immersive river journeys. Guests can choose between the contemporary Mazaj MS Tamr and Mazaj MS Tulip, or the more intimate dahabiyas, Mazaj Sia, Mazaj Seba, and Mazaj Meroot, each offering personalised service, refined dining, spa facilities, and curated itineraries between Luxor and Aswan. 

Preferred Hotels & Resorts’ commitment to the African market extends beyond its growing portfolio. The brand’s Africa-based team, including Celeste Vogel, Account Director for Africa; Kimon de Zeeuw, Manager of Hotel Revenue Optimisation; and Francois Joubert, Senior Manager of Sales for Africa, provides dedicated on-the-ground support for both hotel partners and travel agents across the region. This includes training, sales support, assistance with client requests and conversions, and access to Preferred’s global sales and centralised reservation channels. Agent partners also benefit from inclusion in regional campaigns, roadshows, trade activations, and global initiatives designed to drive visibility and demand, with the brand maintaining an active presence at key industry events across the continent throughout 2026, including Africa’s Travel Indaba in May, a Southern Africa Roadshow across Namibia, Botswana, and Zimbabwe in June, and a West Africa Showcase in Lagos in September.