The property has grown from four bedrooms to five, with capacity now at a maximum of 10 adults and two children under 16. The new, east-facing fifth bedroom features air conditioning, a private terrace, and an outdoor shower. The existing lounge has been extended to include a dedicated TV room and library, anchored by a dramatic 2.4-metre Farooo lamp by celebrated Dutch designer Marcel Wanders for Moooi, a striking centrepiece that sets the tone for the refreshed interior throughout. The current kids’ room now features two proper single beds, and a second rooftop terrace on the west side of the upstairs bar offers dedicated sunset views.

Commissioned to reimagine the interiors were Guus and Fenny Koevoets of Vervoort Living, a Netherlands-based studio with an international portfolio spanning hotels and restaurants worldwide. Rooted in a hospitality-focused background, their overarching design philosophy holds that hospitality sits at the core of all human environments – a belief that translates instinctively into spaces that feel as considered as they are beautiful. Their design direction for Morukuru Ocean House introduces a more Scandinavian minimalistic style in soft beige and blue tones – a palette drawn directly from De Hoop Nature Reserve’s beaches, ocean, and fynbos landscape. Layered textures and tonal depth bring warmth to the spaces, while selected works by South African artist Lionel Smith are positioned throughout the house, deepening the sense of place across all five bedrooms, as well as the living and dining areas.

“Morukuru Ocean House has always been somewhere special. A place where families come to truly exhale. This refurbishment is about honouring that feeling while elevating every detail of the experience. We can’t wait for our guests to discover it,” said Ed Zeeman, Co-founder and Co-owner of Morukuru Family.

Co-founder and Co-owner Anka Zeeman added: “Working with Guus and Fenny has been a joy. They understand intuitively how a space should feel, not just how it should look and they moved to a calmer and more minimalistic, kind of Scandinavian design style, which deeply connects with its surroundings and emphasises the extraordinary location of this special off grid house.”

Morukuru Ocean House remains exclusive use only. Rates are unchanged despite the additional bedroom and wider enhancements. Trade partners should note that the minimum stay requirement at Morukuru Family De Hoop during peak season 2027 has been revised to three nights.

For bookings, prospective guests can contact their preferred travel advisor or get in touch with Morukuru Family directly via reservations@morukuru.com. Ts & Cs apply.

At the heart of the restructure is the consolidation of sales and marketing under unified regional leadership. For travel agents across the MEA region, it means a single, aligned team working in step to help them sell NCL more effectively and grow their cruise business with confidence.

Leading that charge in MEA is Gary Anslow, appointed as the region’s new VP. Anslow brings considerable experience to the role, which will serve alongside his position of VP and Head of UK and Ireland, one of NCL’s most established and high-performing markets. He takes over from Kevin Bubolz, who spearheaded NCL’s growth across MEA. Bubolz will now assume full oversight of NCL’s Continental European business. Both report into Jason Krimmel, NCL’s Chief International Sales and Marketing Officer.

Commenting on the transition, Bubolz said: “I have thoroughly enjoyed my time leading our strategy in MEA. The engagement and support we have had from our partners in the region has been exceptional. I know Gary and the team will continue to build on very solid foundations.”

Anslow added: “MEA is a region with tremendous energy and real appetite for cruise travel, and I am committed to making sure our trade partners have everything they need to capitalise on that. I am looking forward to deepening our relationships across the region and to ensuring that agents feel the full benefit of a more integrated sales and marketing approach.”

The announcement comes at a particularly compelling moment for travel trade partners to be selling NCL. Great Stirrup Cay, the cruise line’s iconic private island in The Bahamas, is set to launch the new Great Tides Waterpark on 4 September – a significant enhancement, with 19 waterslides, unique cliff jumps, and a Tidal Tower standing over 50m tall, that adds fresh appeal for families and gives agents a powerful new conversation-starter with clients.

An impressive portfolio of 2027 Europe itineraries, including expanded Mediterranean and Northern Europe sailings, offers strong options for the well-travelled South African market, while a pipeline of innovative new ships continues to grow one of the industry’s most modern fleets.

“The investment is real, the support is growing, and the opportunities for agents who lean into cruise have never been greater,” Anslow concluded.

Home to South Africa’s largest concentration of award-winning restaurants, celebrated wine estates, visionary chefs and artisan producers, Stellenbosch once again invites visitors to experience why it is recognised as the country’s leading food and wine destination.

Some destinations are known for great restaurants. Stellenbosch is something else entirely.

Here, award-winning chefs, passionate winemakers, artisan producers, farmers and welcoming hosts come together to create a destination where every meal tells a story. Whether it is an intimate chef’s table, a long table feast among the vines, an innovative tasting menu or a leisurely brunch that turns into an afternoon, food is not simply something you enjoy. It is how you experience Stellenbosch.

It is this extraordinary concentration of chefs, winemakers, farmers, cheesemakers, bakers, distillers, olive producers and hospitality experiences, all within minutes of one another, that makes Stellenbosch unlike anywhere else in South Africa. Every meal begins long before it reaches the table, rooted in exceptional local produce, generations of craftsmanship and a culture that celebrates creativity, collaboration and genuine hospitality.

Recognised by the Eat Out Awards, Gourmet Guide and the World’s 101 Best Steak Restaurants, Stellenbosch continues to set the benchmark for culinary excellence in South Africa. Home to some of the country’s most celebrated restaurants and wine estates, the destination has earned a reputation for delivering world-class food and wine experiences that are authentic, innovative and deeply connected to place.

“Taste Stellenbosch is more than a celebration of exceptional food and wine. It is a celebration of the people, passion and craftsmanship that have shaped Stellenbosch into South Africa’s leading food and wine destination,” says Annemie Liebenberg, CEO of Visit Stellenbosch.

“Every chef, winemaker, farmer, artisan producer and host contributes to a culinary story that is uniquely Stellenbosch. Here, remarkable experiences begin with extraordinary ingredients, are brought to life by talented people and shared around tables that inspire conversation, connection and discovery. Taste Stellenbosch invites visitors to slow down, savour every moment and experience a destination where every meal becomes a lasting memory. We hope every visitor leaves inspired, already planning their return, because the very best way to discover Stellenbosch is one unforgettable meal at a time.”

This year’s programme celebrates the remarkable breadth and diversity of Stellenbosch’s culinary landscape. From intimate chef collaborations and immersive food and wine pairings to vineyard feasts, long table gatherings, heritage dining experiences and menus created exclusively for the season, every experience has been thoughtfully curated to showcase the creativity, generosity and unmistakable sense of place that define South Africa’s leading food and wine destination.

“Taste Stellenbosch is an invitation to experience the extraordinary diversity of our destination,” says Daniel Kriel, Chairman of Taste Stellenbosch.

“Whether it is an intimate chef’s table, a vineyard feast, a long lunch with friends or discovering a hidden culinary gem for the first time, every experience has been thoughtfully created by passionate people who love sharing Stellenbosch. Visitors won’t simply enjoy exceptional food and wine. They’ll discover the warmth, creativity and generosity that make this destination so memorable and leave with every reason to return.”

Highlights of Taste Stellenbosch 2026 include:

• De Warenmarkt’s interactive Test Kitchen and Pinotage & Venison Winemakers’ Dinner with Beyerskloof.

• 96 Winery Road Restaurant’s nostalgic four-course celebration of 30 years of Good Food, Good Wine and Good Times.

• HŌSEKI at Delaire Graff Estate’s Nihon Jūdan, an elegant culinary journey through regional Japanese flavours.

• Muratie Farm Kitchen’s Story Room Experience, where exceptional wines, slow-cooked cuisine and heritage storytelling come together.

• Pink Valley Restaurant’s Pink Drinks & Petite Plates experience, pairing rosé wines with beautifully crafted tasting plates.

• Warwick Wine Estate’s signature gourmet slider and wine pairing.

• Lanzerac’s guided Taste Lanzerac experience and Family Style Sundays.

• Klein Joostenberg Bistro’s spectacular long table farm brunch celebrating seasonal produce, artisan charcuterie, oysters and sparkling wine.

But Taste Stellenbosch doesn’t end at the table.

Some places deserve more than a day

Exceptional seasonal accommodation experiences at boutique guesthouses, luxury hotels, vineyard estates and countryside retreats invite visitors to slow down and stay a little longer. Wake up among the vineyards, linger over another breakfast, discover another cellar, book another table and give yourself the greatest luxury of all: another day to experience the flavours, people and unexpected moments that make Stellenbosch unforgettable.

Because the best meals are never rushed. Neither is Stellenbosch.

Taste Stellenbosch accommodation highlights include:

• 10 Alexander B&B: Stay for two nights and savour a third night free at the #1-rated Tripadvisor B&B in Stellenbosch.

• Rozenburg Guesthouse: Stay within walking distance of Stellenbosch’s historic village centre, top restaurants and wineries, and enjoy 30% off your accommodation.

• Spier Wine Farm: Book two nights or more and receive R1,600 credit to indulge across dining, wine and spa experiences.

Discover the full range of participating accommodation at: taste.visitstellenbosch.org/accommodation/

Come hungry. Leave inspired. Return soon.

Taste Stellenbosch runs from 1 August to 20 September 2026.

Discover the full programme of dining experiences, accommodation packages and seasonal inspiration at: taste.visitstellenbosch.org

About Visit Stellenbosch

Visit Stellenbosch is the official destination marketing organisation for Stellenbosch, working in partnership with tourism businesses, local government and industry stakeholders to position Stellenbosch as one of South Africa’s leading year-round leisure, lifestyle and business events destinations. Through strategic destination marketing, visitor services and industry collaboration, Visit Stellenbosch inspires travellers to discover the region’s exceptional wine, award-winning culinary experiences, rich heritage, vibrant culture and breathtaking natural landscapes.

Pangolin.Africa announced a coordinated campaign to achieve the approval of a pangolin emoji with the Unicode Consortium, marking a renewed effort following a rejection of an application in 2019. 

The Unicode Consortium, the non-profit organisation responsible for approving new emojis, requires specific, quantifiable evidence of public interest. Petitions and social media campaigns are explicitly not accepted. Instead, Unicode evaluates:

• Google Search volume and trends
• Google Video Search metrics
• Website traffic data
• Comparative analysis with approved animal emojis

“Unicode’s requirements are rigorous, and rightfully so,” notes Toby Jermyn, Director of Pangolin.Africa. “They need proof that people will actually use a pangolin emoji. Our campaign is designed to build exactly that proof – transparently, measurably, and in accordance with their documented standards.”

The campaign launches on World Pangolin Day (21^st February 2026) with a call for global audiences to search for “Pangolin” on Google and alternative search engines to build the quantifiable public interest metrics that Unicode requires for emoji approval.

“A pangolin emoji was proposed to Unicode in 2019 and was summarily declined,” says Emma Bracher, Programme Director at Pangolin.Africa. “Then COVID-19 hit, and suddenly everyone was searching for pangolins because of the virus’s suspected origins. Search traffic spiked dramatically. But we can’t rely on a global pandemic to generate awareness. We need sustained, organic interest—and we’re building that now.”

The Case for Pangolin Representation

Pangolins occupy a unique position among endangered species: they are simultaneously real animals facing extinction and creatures of almost mythical quality in popular imagination. Their distinctive scales, long tongues, and solitary nature make them unlike any other mammal on Earth.

Yet while dragons, unicorns, and other mythical creatures have emoji representation, pangolins do not. Even extinct animals like the dodo and dinosaurs are represented in emoji keyboards worldwide.

“There is a genuine incomprehension as to why pangolins don’t have an emoji,” explains Jermyn. “They’re visually distinctive. They’re culturally significant across Africa and Asia. They’re critically endangered and need awareness. And they have all the characteristics that make for compelling emoji use. The only thing missing has been demonstrated public interest.”

Emoji Design Competition

Following the awareness campaign, Pangolin.Africa will launch a design competition open to anyone who has completed the Pangolin Guardians Course. Participants will create Unicode-compliant emoji designs (curled-up and walking poses) for submission.

Pangolin.Africa will open submissions for design entries from 15 March 2026. A full design brief with details of the Unicode specifications, is available on the Pangolin.Africa website. 

The winning designer receives international recognition and the distinction of creating the first pangolin emojis, with designs submitted to Unicode during May 2026.

The Conservation Context

Pangolins are the world’s most illegally trafficked mammals, with over one million individuals stolen from the wild in the past decade. All eight pangolin species – four in Africa and four in Asia – are threatened with extinction due to poaching for their scales (used in traditional medicine despite having no medicinal value) and meat.

Despite this critical conservation status, pangolins remain largely unknown to the general public. Digital representation through emojis would provide a tool for everyday conservation conversations, much as elephant 🐘, rhinoceros 🦏, and gorilla 🦍 emojis have done for those species.

“When people can text about pangolins as easily as they can text about elephants, pangolins become part of our cultural conversation,” says Bracher. “That visibility drives awareness. Awareness drives action. Action drives conservation outcomes.”

The COVID-19 Precedent

In early 2020, search interest in pangolins surged dramatically as scientists investigated the virus’s origins and potential wildlife reservoirs. Google Trends data showed a spike in “pangolin” searches that persisted for several months.

“That spike proved people were interested. But it was driven by a global health crisis, not by genuine conservation engagement,” explains Jermyn. “What we’re building now is sustainable, education-based interest. People aren’t searching because they’re afraid. They’re searching because they want to learn, understand, and help.”

Call to Action

Individuals worldwide are encouraged to:

1. Search “pangolin” on Google (web search, image search, video search)
2. Visit Pangolin.Africa to learn about the species and conservation efforts
3. Complete the FREE 15-minute Pangolin Guardians Educational Course

Media organisations can support the campaign by:

• Covering pangolin conservation and the emoji campaign
• Including pangolin imagery in World Pangolin Day coverage
• Linking to Pangolin.Africa educational resources
• Explaining the trafficking crisis and conservation needs

For more information about the campaign, to access educational resources and imagery, or to complete the Pangolin Guardians Course, visit pangolin.africa

View video by Toby Jermyn here on the Pangolin Emoji Campaign.

Media Contact

Nikki Evans
Marketing Manager, Pangolin.Africa
Email: nikki@pangolin.africa
Phone: +27 082 578 3602
Website: www.pangolin.africa

About Pangolin.Africa

Pangolin.Africa is a South African based registered non-profit organisation (Reg. No. 2018/380634/08) dedicated to the survival of the most highly trafficked wildlife species on Earth – the African pangolin. Through Pangolin.Africa’s three-pronged approach of publicity, participation, and protection, its projects enable global partners in tourism, conservation, and business to contribute to research, protection, and rehabilitation of this vulnerable species.

The decision to host the 2026 edition in Zanzibar aligns with growing global interest in the island, which recorded a 10% increase in international tourist arrivals in December 2025. As a tropical island just a short flight from popular safari circuits and adventure hubs, Zanzibar offers international buyers the opportunity to explore how Africa’s varied tourism experiences can be woven into seamless, multi-stop itineraries.

“After working closely with the Diamonds team in Malindi to deliver an exceptional experience in 2025, we’re excited to see this collaboration evolve into a true strategic alliance and to extend the growth of Essence of Africa across the continent,” says Amanda Margison, Co-Founder of Essence of Africa.  “The launch of their new property in Zanzibar provides a perfect setting for another distinctive destination for our international buyer forum, and their investment in their people and products reflects a shared commitment that delivers real value for both buyers and African exhibitors.”

“Essence of Africa is designed to move across the continent, and bringing the forum to Zanzibar reflects both the rotational nature of the show and the growing importance of Africa’s island and coastal destinations,” says Chris Mears, Co-founder of Essence of Africa. “Zanzibar offers a unique contrast to traditional safari experiences, combining natural beauty, culture and a strong sense of place in a way that resonates deeply with international buyers. By hosting Essence of Africa here, we’re giving the global travel trade the opportunity to experience first-hand how destinations like Zanzibar elevate and enrich African itineraries.”

Essence of Africa 2026 builds on the success of the previous year’s edition in Malindi, where 158 international buyers from 39 countries met with 150 African exhibitors in over 5,600 pre-scheduled meetings.

Curated by On Show Solutions and ATTA® Group Events, the forum continues to focus on facilitating commercially meaningful connections between buyers and Africa’s tourism suppliers, supported by immersive destination experiences and in-depth content sessions.

Registration for exhibitors opens 16 February with favourable early bird rates available. Interested buyers can review information and apply on the website https://essenceofafrica.travel/

This enhancement is not a limited-time initiative, but a permanent shift designed to simplify and clarify commission structures, making NCL the easiest cruise line to work with. It reflects NCL’s ongoing commitment to partnership, transparency, and the long-term success of travel professionals.

“Removing NCFs is a meaningful commitment to strengthening our partnership and ensuring travel agents are fully rewarded for the value they bring to their clients and to NCL,” says Nirosha Sidat, NCL Country Manager, Africa. “With 21 ships and voyages to more than 350 destinations worldwide on sale, including Europe, the Caribbean, Alaska and Asia, there is no better moment to plan and book an effortless escape with NCL.”

Beyond simplifying commission structures, this change delivers tangible advantages for travel partners. First, higher commission earnings: the full cruise fare (excluding taxes and fees) is now commissionable, delivering more revenue with every booking. Second, a simplified and transparent structure: the streamlined fare model enables advisors to understand their earning potential upfront, present NCL confidently, and focus on selling the experience. Finally, a partnership that puts partners first: NCL recognises the critical role travel advisors play in delivering exceptional holidays worldwide, and this enhancement represents a direct investment in their business success.

To learn more about NCL’s new commission structure, travel advisors are encouraged to visit Norwegian Central.

For more information about the Company’s award-winning 20-ship fleet and worldwide itineraries, or to book a cruise, please contact a travel professional or visit www.ncl.com

The 1970s-inspired drinking and dining destination introduces a new concept to Johannesburg’s Rosebank precinct, combining precision mixology with reimagined comfort food in an intimate, after-hours setting.

Johannesburg, South Africa – 17 December 2025: Nine Lives, a hidden speakeasy tucked between the HYDE Johannesburg Hotel’s fourth and fifth floors, has officially opened, marking the first venue of its kind in the city’s hospitality scene.

The 1970s-inspired drinking and dining destination introduces a new concept to Johannesburg’s Rosebank precinct, combining precision mixology with reimagined comfort food in an intimate, after-hours setting.

Key features:

• Hidden location between hotel floors creates an exclusive atmosphere.
• Menu features fusion dishes like smoky bonito risotto, tuna tostada, and pork dumplings.
• Curated back bar stocks rare international labels unavailable elsewhere in South Africa.
• Signature carbonated martinis and clarified classics headline a contemporary cocktail programme.

“What excites us most is creating a space the city hasn’t seen before: a one-of-a-kind, after-dark hideaway built on mood and intention. We called it Nine Lives for its feline spirit – curious and adaptable. A place where people can comfortably slip into their ‘other’ selves. The after- work self, the night-self, the version that wants sound, smoke, and an air of mystery,” said HYDE Johannesburg General Manager Jessica Redinger.

The venue represents HYDE Johannesburg’s expansion beyond traditional hotel dining,targeting both guests and local clientele seeking distinctive nightlife experiences.

Behind the vision, two culinary forces bring Nine Lives to life

Chef Marc Robert, Group Executive Chef at Colada Hospitality, who also helmed the award- winning Proud Mary, explains the vision of ‘accessible luxury’ on the menu at Nine Lives. “It brings a new and exciting culinary energy to Johannesburg, offering elevated dining without the intimidation. Our dishes blend global influences, and our signature plates showcase this contemporary cuisine philosophy.”

The bar matches the kitchen’s energy at Nine Lives. “We set out to redefine the bar experience with an unmatched spirits selection and a striking back bar. Our drinks echo Nine Lives’ 70s- inspired spirit, reimagined with contemporary twists,” adds Martin Strobos, Group Bar Beverage Manager at Colada Hospitality.

The opening forms part of HYDE’s broader culinary strategy, complementing the award-winning Proud Mary Restaurant and Proud Coffee on the ground floor of the HYDE Johannesburg hotel.

Nine Lives is open Monday – Saturday from 16h00, accepting reservations through dineplan and walk-ins at HYDE Johannesburg, Rosebank.

OPEN NOW

24 Cradock Ave, Rosebank

@ninelives.sa | Bookings | mytable@ninelives.co.za

But before you grab your suitcase, a quick heads-up: year-end travel doesn’t always go according to plan. Airports are crowded, airlines are under pressure, and small mistakes – like forgetting to renew your passport or skipping travel insurance – can cost thousands.

Don’t panic. We’ve made it easy. Here’s your festive travel checklist, complete with a few stern-but-loving reminders that could save your holiday (and your bank balance).

1. The six-month passport rule (yes, it’s real and it will ruin your holiday)

Honestly, this one stings.

Every December someone gets turned away at check-in because their passport expires too soon. Not expired – just not valid long enough. Most countries require at least six months of validity on your passport (from the date you depart their country after your holiday), and they’re deadly serious about it.

“It’s heartbreaking. But completely avoidable,” says Zay Ferguson-Nair, Customer Experience Leader at Flight Centre Travel Group. “Before booking any international trip, check the expiration date on your passport carefully.”

Why does this rule even exist?

Ferguson-Nair explains that immigration authorities use the six-month buffer as a safety net. If your travel plans change – flights get delayed, you fall ill, or you extend your stay – they want reassurance you won’t overstay on an expired document.  

“It’s also about consistency,” says Ferguson-Nair. “Rather than every country setting different validity periods, the six-month rule has become a global standard. There are exceptions, but it’s a common requirement.”

Why South African travellers need to be extra careful

Unfortunately, travelling on a South African passport isn’t exactly a golden ticket. Many countries scrutinise our passports more closely, and enforcement of validity rules tends to be stricter. Add in the fact that South African passport renewals can take weeks (especially over busy periods), and you’ve got a recipe for disaster if you leave it too late.

Oh, and don’t forget: many countries also require two blank pages facing each other in your passport. This is to accommodate both a full-page visa sticker (if required) and separate entry/exit stamps. It can be confusing. Ferguson-Nair recommends chatting to your travel advisor if you have any questions or concerns.

Checklist tip:

• Check your passport expiration date now, not the day before your flight.
• Count forward six months from your proposed return date – that’s your expiry deadline.
• Make sure you have at least two blank visa pages (facing each other).
• If renewal is needed, start the process immediately – peak season delays are real.

2. Visas & transit visas

“Visa requirements can vary wildly depending on your nationality, your destination, and even your length of stay,” says Ferguson-Nair. “And over the festive season, embassies often close or work reduced hours, which makes last-minute applications nearly impossible.”

Not all visas are created equal

Some countries offer visa-on-arrival, others require e-visas in advance, and many still demand that you physically submit your passport to an embassy – which means you’re passport-less for days or even weeks. Not ideal when you’re trying to juggle multiple trips or need your passport for something else.

South African passport holders also face stricter requirements in many destinations. What’s a quick online form for an EU citizen might be a full consular interview for us. It’s frustrating, but it’s reality.

And, as Ferguson-Nair explains, transit visas can surprise even the most seasoned of travellers.

“It is important to check that you hold the required visas for all your travel – not only for the final destination, but also for all transits (even airside), stopovers, port entries and border crossings,” says Ferguson-Nair.

Checklist tip:

• Check visa requirements as soon as you book – don’t wait until the week before.
• Apply early, especially if embassies need your physical passport.
• Double-check processing times and factor in festive season closures.
• Keep copies of all visa documents (digital and printed) – you’ll need them at check-in and immigration.
• If using e-visas, make sure they’re approved before you head to the airport.
• Always check if you need a transit visa too.

3. Flexi fares

Because plans change. And that promo ticket doesn’t care.

Whether it’s a delayed passport, unexpected health hiccup, or just that your boss changed your leave dates again, a flexi ticket can mean the difference between rebooking with a few clicks… or paying for an entirely new flight.

“Flexibility used to be something you considered just in case,” says Ferguson-Nair. “Now, it’s a must. Delays, plan changes, life – these things happen. Building flexibility into your booking can save you thousands and a whole lot of stress.”

Checklist tip:

• Always ask if your flight dates can be changed – and what costs are involved.
• Know the rules: not all “flexi” (or changeable) tickets are created equal. Some only allow one change, others more. Always make sure you’re clear on what changes (and how many) the airline will allow.

4. Travel Insurance 

Ah, travel insurance – the thing you only remember when things go sideways. Lost luggage. Cancelled flights. Medical emergencies in countries where a plaster costs R500? Suddenly, that travel insurance policy looks like the best deal of the year. 

“It’s like wearing a safety belt,” says Ferguson-Nair. “You hope you won’t need it – but when you do, it can save your life. Or at least your bank balance.” 

And don’t assume your medical aid or credit card has you covered overseas. 

“Most medical schemes and banks require members to notify them in advance to activate international cover. If you forget, you could be fully liable for medical costs abroad,” Ferguson-Nair adds. 

Checklist tip: 

• Get travel insurance at the same time as booking flights. It protects your deposit too. 
• Notify your medical aid and credit card provider before you travel. 
• Read the fine print (or ask your travel agent to connect you with their recommended provider to get the low down in plain English). 

5. Airline baggage rules (aka Christmas shopping roulette)

’Tis the season… for overweight bag fees. Whether it’s gifts or winter gear, those extras start to add up – fast.

“Airlines are enforcing baggage rules more strictly than ever in December,” says Ferguson-Nair. “We see people scrambling at check-in to repack bags or pay steep excess charges.”

And it’s not just checked baggage. Many international and local carriers have cracked down on cabin bag dimensions and weight. That cute little carry-on you always get away with? Not anymore, friend.

Checklist tip:

• Weigh your bags before you leave home. Step on the scale if you must.
• Compare your airline’s hand luggage and checked bag rules – some are stingier than others.
• Don’t count on pooling bags between travel companions. Airlines can, and do, enforce individual limits.
• Shopped a little too hard? Prepay your extra luggage and save yourself some rands – and repacking drama!

Another tip? Keep all your valuables in your carry-on luggage. Perfume, jewellery and cameras don’t belong in your checked luggage. It’s not worth the risk.

6. Falling for AI travel scams or cyber-fraud

“Alexa, fix my booking”. Just kidding. PLEASE DON’T.

Scammers love peak season, and they’re not just sitting in dark rooms guessing passwords. These days, they’re using AI tools to create full-blown fake travel websites – complete with polished copy, stolen logos, and bogus reviews.

“We’re seeing much more sophisticated scams, especially around high-demand markets,” warns Ferguson-Nair. “Just because a website looks real doesn’t mean it is. Check the URL. Check the provider. Or better yet, book through a professional.”

Does that deal look too good to be true? It probably is.

Checklist tip:

• Only book through reputable sites or recognised travel brands.
• Be super wary of “limited-time” deals and suspiciously low airfares.
• Don’t click on random flight change emails; check directly with your airline.
• Enable 2-factor authentication and never send private info over WhatsApp groups.

One dodgy link can cost you your holiday, your bank account password, and your faith in humanity.

One Last Thing: Don’t Forget to Breathe

Festive travel doesn’t have to be a full-contact sport. Double-check your documents. Don’t skip the insurance. Build in flexibility. And save your future self from stress overload.

And if it all feels like too much, there’s no shame in phoning a travel expert. They’ll remember the tiny details, so you don’t have to – and flag that your five-year-old’s passport expired back when Peppa Pig was still a household name.

Here’s to a drama-free December. Bon voyage!

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 collaboration connects ATTA®’s extensive B2B network – representing accommodation providers, tour operators, and destination marketing specialists – with The Long Run’s internationally recognised 4Cs sustainability model (Conservation, Community, Culture, Commerce). 

“This partnership marks a pivotal moment for Africa’s tourism story. By combining ATTA®’s reach with The Long Run’s proven 4Cs model, we’re empowering our members with the knowledge, tools, and networks to embed regeneration into the core of their operations,” said Kgomotso Ramothea, CEO, ATTA®. 

“Africa holds one‑quarter of the world’s biodiversity; protecting it is both our responsibility and our competitive advantage. Through this collaboration, we’re redefining growth to mean prosperity that also safeguards our heritage and people,” she added. 

This partnership comes as Africa’s travel economy continues to rebound strongly. The World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) estimates the sector now contributes over US$168 billion to the continent’s GDP. Simultaneously, Booking.com has reported that, as of 2025, over 80% of global travellers want to travel more sustainably, demonstrating momentum for meaningful industry transformation.

How the partnership works

Under the new MoU:

• ATTA® will act as a global ambassador for The Long Run and its 4Cs approach, sharing related resources, case studies, and training opportunities with its members.
• The Long Run will provide ATTA® members access to sustainability tools, frameworks, and select peer‑learning events, and offer discounted membership to eligible operators.
• The two organisations will collaborate on awareness‑building initiatives, joint events, and content that promote measurable sustainability improvements across ATTA’s membership base.

The road ahead

Going forward, the partnership will roll out a series of joint initiatives, including webinars, case‑study exchanges, and workshops for tourism businesses seeking to measure and improve their sustainability performance.

“We’re delighted to partner with ATTA® to accelerate practical action on sustainability in Africa’s tourism sector,” said Dr Anne-Kathrin Zschiegner, Executive Director of The Long Run.

“Our members have proven that long-term success depends on ecosystems and communities in balance. By combining our 4Cs framework with ATTA®’s reach, we hope to support more tourism operators to turn good intentions into measurable impact – strengthening Africa’s role as a global leader in regenerative tourism,” she concluded.

-ENDS-

Please contact Kgomotso Ramothea on info@atta.travel should you need further information | The ATTA® team is available at WTM London 4-6 November at Stand S15-300.