TPConnects’ Iris platform enables travel agencies to access NDC content alongside traditional EDIFACT, LCC, and aggregator content through a single, unified interface. This comprehensive solution ensures seamless shopping and servicing of air content, enabling travel sellers to offer the best available fares and products to their clients.

The integration announcement marks a significant milestone as Flight Centre Travel Group implements Iris for FlySafair bookings for its corporate & leisure business.

Key features of the FlySafair integration include: 

1. Access to FlySafair’s full range of fare products and services 
2. Real-time pricing and availability
3. Seamless booking and servicing capabilities 

“This partnership with TPConnects represents a significant step forward in our distribution strategy,” said Kirby Gordon, Chief Marketing Officer, FlySafair. “By making our content available through the Iris platform, we’re expanding our reach in the corporate and Leisure travel sector while ensuring our products are easily accessible to travel partners worldwide.”

“The integration of FlySafair into our Iris platform marks a significant milestone in our ongoing commitment to provide the best available content to our customers.” commented Eric Dumas, CEO, TPConnects Technologies. “By bringing FlySafair’s network and competitive fares onto Iris, we’re not only expanding low-cost carrier distribution in South Africa but also enabling seamless access for travel businesses across both corporate and leisure sectors.

Sue Garrett, GM Supply and Distribution, Flight Centre Travel Group, added, “This integration enhances our ability to serve our corporate and leisure customers with a wider range of travel options. The addition of FlySafair’s content to the Iris platform strengthens our offering in the important South African market and demonstrates our commitment to providing comprehensive travel solutions to our customers.”

The Iris platform continues to expand its global presence, incorporating NDC and LCC content from leading carriers worldwide. This growth enables TPConnects to better serve travel sellers across North America, Europe, the Middle East, and Asia, offering enhanced retailing capabilities, rich content access, and comprehensive end-to-end servicing options. 

The brand will provide a true heart and home for independent travel agents and agencies with a polished new visual identity that reflects the Group’s experienced global community, industry leading technology and comprehensive product marketplace.

The name Envoyage combines the notion of connection through envoy and travel through voyage. The“bridge” in the logo represents the growth journey our travel agents and agencies can experience and the incredible travel journeys their customers can go on with us.

Flight Centre Travel Group Global Leisure CEO James Kavanagh said a new global brand will allow the company to continue nurturing the huge potential they see in the independent travel space.

“Independent travel has been one of the fastest growing divisions for us in recent years and the investment in our new brand signals the significant role we expect the network to play in our future business model.

“It’s our ambition that Envoyage will become a global powerhouse – the most comprehensive, trusted and recognised independent travel brand in market.”

Chantal Gouws, General Manager of Envoyage South Africa said Envoyage is the culmination of extensive market research, industry consultation and in-depth design.

“The new brand proposition is compelling, memorable and versatile. Our research tells us Envoyage conjures up an air of prestige, a feeling of security and an immediate association with travel and personalisation, so it truly embodies everything our independent division is about.

“Being part of Envoyage will offer agents the best of both worlds – the freedom of running their own business their way, coupled with the power of a truly global brand and community.

“We look forward to welcoming our existing network of incredible independent agents and agencies alongside newcomers into the Envoyage family.”

About Envoyage: 
Envoyage is a global network of independent travel entrepreneurs, dedicated to shaping the future of travel through collaboration, innovation, and excellence. With a commitment to empowering its members, Envoyage offers cutting-edge solutions and comprehensive business support to drive success in an ever-evolving landscape. Visit join.envoyage.com to learn more.

Media contact:

Tracy Porter 

Phone: +27 (0)82 891 4353  Email: tracy.porter@envoyagegroup.co.za

“These ratings don’t come as a surprise, especially since Australia is a strong VFR (Visiting Friends and Relatives) market. And with South African Airways’ recently resumed direct Johannesburg – Perth route – and Qantas set to relaunch the same non-stop route in 2025 – it’s more convenient than ever for South Africans to make the trip,” said Sue Garrett, General Manager Supply, Pricing & Marketing at Flight Centre Travel Group.   

Based on more than 170,000 customer responses over the past year, the data* compared the likelihood of Flight Centre customers to recommend their recent travel destinations as great places to visit.

Globally, when it came to cities, Perth’s satisfaction rating of 96 per cent was closely followed by Brisbane and Queenstown, both at 94 per cent. Regarding countries, Portugal earned first place at 94 per cent, with the Cook Islands and Australia not far behind at 93 and 92 per cent, respectively.

Flight Centre Global Managing Director Andrew Stark said the findings show a mix of travel preferences across the travel agency’s extensive network of destinations.

“There were some surprising results that go to show it’s not always the traditionally popular destinations that have something special to offer travellers. Portugal, renowned for its historic architecture and charming culture, came out on top of the best country list, with the Cook Islands a close second, likely due to its beaches and friendly locals. Australia also performed remarkably well as the third most recommended country, with three of its cities listed in the top ten – Perth, Brisbane, and Melbourne. New Zealand was another favourite, with Queenstown and Christchurch claiming two of the spots in the top 10 cities list,” commented Stark.

Cape Town also made an appearance, with the United Kingdom crowning South Africa’s Mother City as its highest-rated city to visit, with a satisfaction rating of 98 per cent. 

Flight Centre’s data also revealed the airlines that South Africans prefer flying with.

The top three domestic airlines were Airlink, SAA, and FlySafair, with satisfaction ratings of 89, 87, and 86 per cent, respectively. Internationally, Singapore Airlines won gold with 86 per cent, followed by Emirates and Airlink, both with 85 per cent.

“It’s incredibly pleasing to see such positive customer feedback across the board. These results are a testament to the unwavering commitment to traveller satisfaction that defines the global travel and tourism industry,” Garrett concluded.

DESTINATION PREFERENCES BY MARKET

*Results are based on global Flight Centre customer survey responses from FY24 spanning Flight Centre’s five markets; Australia, New Zealand, South Africa, Canada, and The UK. Total sample size is >170k, destination must have >=500 responses to be listed.

-Ends

—————–

Global results

Media Contact

Kim Taylor, Big Ambitions +27 768 255 508
kim@bigambitions.co.za

_______________

About Flight Centre Travel Group

The Flight Centre Travel Group (FCTG) is one of the world’s largest travel retailers and corporate travel managers.  

The company, which is headquartered in Brisbane, employs about 15,000 people globally and has company-owned leisure and/or corporate travel business in 25 countries, spanning Australia/New Zealand (ANZ), the Americas, Europe, Middle East and Africa (EMEA) and Asia.  

The company opened its first leisure travel shop in Sydney (Australia) in 1982 and listed on the Australian Securities Exchange in 1995. Today, it has a market capitalisation in the order of $AU4.5 billion.

Flagship leisure travel brands include Flight Centre, Travel Associates, Scott Dunn, Travel Money, Ignite (MyHolidays), Cruiseabout, BYOjet, Aunt Betty and StudentUniverse. 

As the world’s spotlight turns to Paris for the 2024 Summer Olympics, South African travellers have a unique opportunity to witness this global spectacle firsthand. Whether you’re travelling to experience this exciting event or heading to Paris for other reasons, here’s how you can work around the increased pricing and accommodation situation. From potential Airbnb cancellations to evolving regulations, the Olympics presents unique travel challenges that require an expert eye.

Where to sleep in the City of lights?

From 26 July to 11 August 2024, the City of Lights is set to host an Olympic Games like no other. Paris officials have embraced a sustainable and eco-friendly approach, transforming iconic landmarks around the city into competition sites. Equestrian events will take place in the historic chateau of Versailles, while beach volleyball matches will unfold under the iconic Eiffel Tower. In a groundbreaking move, the Seine River, which has been off-limits for bathing for over a century due to pollution, will host diving and swimming events.

“The Paris Olympics have allowed us to accelerate the city’s transformation and respond to environmental challenges,” said the Mayor of Paris Anne Hidalgo on 2 May 2024. “We have new tram lines, thanks to the Games, and all the trees and flower beds that go with that. The cycle paths have accelerated. We have 1,400 km of cycle lanes today.”

With events scattered across the city, Lynette Machiri, Flight Centre Customer Experience Leader, advises travellers to carefully consider their accommodation options. “Choose a location that allows for easy access to the venues you wish to attend, either via public transportation or by taking advantage of Paris’s extensive cycle lanes,” Machiri recommends. “Striking a balance between budget and convenience will be key. However, if you don’t mind a longer transit time to get to venues, then staying further from the city centre will present more budget friendly options.”

How much for a bed?

As Paris gears up for an influx of over 15 million visitors, accommodation prices continue to be way above the ‘norm’ – and fluctuate without warning. Some hotels in Paris were forecasted to increase their rates by an average of 9% during the Olympics, with some brands like Hyatt Regency, Hilton, and Marriott predicted to skyrocket by nearly 73%, according to the real estate database CoStar.

However, an article in French publication Le Monde suggested that hotel prices were no longer soaring, as an influx of Airbnb listings had led to an increase in overall accommodation supply, causing hotel prices to stabilise. The article noted that the average rate for one night in Greater Paris during the Olympics period had dropped from a concerning €759 (R14 989) in September to a more reasonable €522 (R10 308) in early February. And according to insurance firm Réassurez-moi, the price of a one-night stay in the capital stood at €436 (R8 612) in April, indicating a further drop in hotel pricing due to an excess of supply.

Airbnb, initially seen as a more affordable alternative, is also facing challenges. Numerous stories have emerged on South African travel groups of late, as well as on Reddit and TripAdvisor from last year, detailing instances of confirmed Airbnb bookings being cancelled as hosts seek to capitalise on higher demand. Furthermore, regulations surrounding houseboat stays (a popular – and romantic – self-catering option) and other alternative accommodation options are evolving. For example, the French government is reportedly set to impose sanctions and further taxation structures on Airbnb owners, adding another layer of complexity to the accommodation planning process.

Expert Guidance: Key Tips for a Successful Olympic Adventure

To navigate these challenges, South African travellers should consider the following expert advice:

• Secure Accommodation

South African travellers are advised to secure reputable accommodation for their Paris Olympic adventure. Reputable accommodation suppliers offer reliability, security, and peace of mind – essential factors when navigating a major event like the Olympics. By booking through trusted travel experts and tour operators, you can ensure your accommodation is confirmed and less susceptible to last-minute cancellations or changes.

Antoinette Turner, General Manager of Flight Centre South Africa, emphasises the importance of securing hotel accommodation early. “While prices may have initially seemed prohibitive, the recent decline in rates presents a window of opportunity for South African travellers. However, availability will continue to dwindle as the Olympics approach, so it’s crucial to book your hotel stays as soon as possible.”

• Work with Reputable Travel Experts

During major events like the Olympics, having a knowledgeable travel expert on your side can make all the difference,” says Turner. “They can help you navigate changing regulations, find alternative accommodation options, and provide guidance every step of the way.”

• Secure Comprehensive Travel Insurance

Investing in comprehensive travel insurance is crucial, especially during a major event like the Olympics. Unforeseen circumstances, such as cancellations or medical emergencies, can be mitigated with the right coverage. Ensure that you understand the policy inclusions for your chosen cover.

• Be Flexible

With high demand and limited availability, it’s essential to book all travel elements well in advance. However, flexibility is equally important. Consider alternative airports, smaller cities connected by Europe’s excellent rail networks, or travelling slightly off-season in late August and September to catch the tail-end of summer.

• Monitor Regulations and Advisories

Stay updated on the latest regulations and advisories from official sources, such as the South African Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) and the French authorities. These guidelines can help you plan accordingly and avoid potential complications during your trip.

By following these expert tips and staying informed, South African travellers can navigate the Paris 2024 Olympics with confidence. Bring on the Olympics in the most romantic city on earth!

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$4.38 billion and a current share price of AU$19.94 as of 26 June 2024. FCTG comprises 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.

Media Contact

Kim Taylor, Big Ambitions +27 768 255 508
kim@bigambitions.co.za

Overall, 45% of Zillennials across all five countries say a holiday is the perfect place to find love, with more men (53%) claiming they’ve experienced romance abroad compared to women (42%).

“This passion for finding love across borders may stem from South Africans’ sense of adventure and openness to new experiences. The diversity of cultures and landscapes across the globe offer the perfect backdrop for making meaningful connections,” says Euan McNeil, MD Flight Centre Travel Group South Africa.

Flight Centre travel agents have experienced travel romance first-hand: “I was working at the Canal Walk branch early 2020 when Chase walked in to book a flight with me. So he started out as a client. From there we chatted throughout lockdown and finally met up when restrictions lifted. We were inseparable and a beautiful love story followed. Chase eventually joined Flight Centre as a novice in 2022. Yes, I am his boss at work but definitely not at home!” says Karen Ackhurst, Garden Route Team Leader.

Chantal Boonzaaier from FCI Operational Finance also shared: “I met my now-husband while on holiday in South Africa during my 8 years working on cruise ships. We dated long distance for 2 years before getting married. Now we’ve been married for 8 years and have a beautiful 4 year old boy.”

On the flip side, solo travel is also becoming increasingly popular as people embrace the opportunity to connect with themselves while experiencing new destinations.

The majority of Zillenials from the five countries said they were very or somewhat likely to travel solo (or wanderlone) at 60 percent. Men were more likely than women to say they’d be very or somewhat likely to do so (64 per cent compared to 56 per cent).

Among Zillennials in the countries surveyed who’d be very or somewhat likely to wanderlone, the most popular type of solo travel was a soul-searching journey focused on self-discovery (54 per cent), a reflective journey that allows contemplation and builds self-awareness (54 per cent) and a cultural journey that fosters a deeper connection (49 per cent).

FCTG Global CEO James Kavanagh said” “Our research shows that people are seeking and finding love abroad – with each other, and with themselves.

“With Valentine’s Day around the corner, the pressure is on for couples to find the perfect gift for one another, and travel is the perfect option.

“No matter your preferred style of travel, our experts can help you find the right trip, at the right price and take the stress out of the booking process.”

• Travel as a couple – https://www.flightcentre.co.za/holidays/types/romantic-honeymoon

• Travel without the kids – https://www.flightcentre.co.za/holidays/types/adults-only

*All figures, unless otherwise stated, are from YouGov Plc. Total sample size was 4,050 adults (822 from Australia, 801 from New Zealand, 801 from the UK, 823 from South Africa and 803 from Canada). Fieldwork was undertaken between 12th – 20th December 2023. The survey was carried out online and commissioned by FCTG. The figures have been weighted and are representative of all Gen Z and Millennials (aged 18-42) in Australia, New Zealand, the UK, South Africa and Canada.

About 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$4.69 billion and a current share price of AU$21.37 as of 14 February 2024. 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.

Please feel free to reach out to Kim Taylor at kim@bigambitions.co.za for any media queries or should you require any additional assets.

This strategic expansion in air access is anticipated to significantly stimulate tourism, capitalising on South Africa’s diverse attractions that range from stunning beaches and cosmopolitan urban centres to wildlife-rich savannahs and fruitful vineyards. The new route promises a more streamlined and time-efficient travel experience and positions South Africa as a more attractive destination for a broader range of travellers eager to explore the multifaceted beauty of the rainbow nation in a single journey.

“FlySafair’s new Cape Town to Kruger route is a blessing for inbound tourism in South Africa. With Cape Town’s international two-way passenger figures soaring to 1.4 million in the first half of 2023 alone, surpassing pre-pandemic levels, and the Kruger Park attracting around 4 million visitors last year, it’s clear that these destinations hold a special place on the global travel map,” comments David Frost, SATSA CEO.

Euan McNeil, MD of Flight Centre Travel Group South Africa, agrees and anticipates the positive impact of this exciting new introduction:

“Until now, connectivity between these two popular locations has been limited. The introduction of FlySafair’s new route will draw more travellers to both regions, as well as the nearby Cape Winelands. The route is especially good news for multigenerational travellers, offering access to various encounters catering to different ages and preferences. The industry is bridging gaps not just geographically but across generations, too.”

The route offers convenience and enriches the travel narrative by linking the contrasting experiences of urban sophistication and natural wilderness – a rare and highly valued combination in the world of travel.

“This new flight route is a game-changer and a fantastic addition to FlySafair’s already impressive network. It seamlessly connects two of the most coveted travel experiences in South Africa. Visitors no longer have to choose between the urban charm of Cape Town or the raw wilderness of the Kruger Park – they can effortlessly enjoy both. The route significantly contributes to creating an interconnected South African travel experience and is certain to escalate our position in the global tourism arena,” says Murray Gardiner, GILTEDGE CEO.

The inaugural flight for this route will make use of FlySafair’s Boeing 737-800. Tickets will start at R1851 one way, with flights leaving Cape Town at 09h00 every Tuesday and Saturday and landing at the Kruger Park around 11h30. The aircraft will then be turned around, taking off from Kruger Mpumalanga International Airport at 12h05 and landing back in Cape Town at approximately 14h50.

“In addition to enhancing accessibility to the Kruger National Park for residents of the Western Cape, this new route by FlySafair promotes inter-provincial exploration, encouraging tourists to discover a plethora of hidden gems and world-class experiences across South Africa. It’s about inspiring travellers to linger longer and indulge in varied combo travel experiences combining the unique offerings of various provinces,” says Frost.

“Furthermore, this initiative underscores our emphasis on inclusive growth in the tourism sector. We’re committed to ensuring the benefits of increased tourism are spread across communities, particularly focusing on empowering local businesses and historically marginalised groups to partake in the tourism value chain. This route is more than a convenience; it’s a strategic step towards a more interconnected and inclusive South African travel experience,” Frost concludes.

As South Africa continues to emerge as a leading travel destination, the introduction of routes such as this is a testament to the country’s growing appeal and the tourism sector’s resilience and innovation. Watch this space – the journey is just beginning.

Please feel free to reach out to Kim Taylor at kim@bigambitions.co.za for any media queries or should you require any additional assets.

“We understand the inconvenience and stress caused by this sudden change and will be supporting our customers to ensure minimal disruption,” says Euan McNeil, MD of Flight Centre Travel Group South Africa.  

Although Flight Centre has been unable to reach Air Belgium for rebooking options, the group has decided to offer a credit to the value of the original Air Belgium booking, towards new travel bookings for impacted customers, regardless of how they made their flight booking with FCTG. “This ensures that our customers can continue to travel as planned,” says McNeil.

 For customers who are currently in their destination and are affected by this event, FCTG is extending its full support. “We are doing everything we can to assist our customers who are in destination. Our team is ready to provide immediate assistance,” McNeil adds. 

Customers affected by the cessation of Air Belgium’s passenger flights are encouraged to contact their Travel Expert or Travel Manager directly for support and rebooking options. For bookings made on Flight Centre’s website, contact 0877 40 51 05.

 “Flight Centre Travel Group appreciates our customers’ patience and understanding as our team works to assist impacted travellers as smoothly as possible,” McNeil concludes. 

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$4.36 billion and a current share price of AU$19.94 as of 19 September 2023. 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.

Media Contact

Kim Taylor, Big Ambitions

+27 768 255 508

kim@bigambitions.co.za

Singapore Tourism Board and Flight Centre Travel Group Limited join forces in a global partnershipThe three-year Memorandum of Understanding encompasses Flight Centre Travel Group brands in Australia, New Zealand, United Kingdom, USA, Canada and South Africa.

Singapore Tourism Board (STB) and Flight Centre Travel Group Limited (FCTG) have today inked a three-year multi-million-dollar Memorandum of Understanding (MOU), teaming up to drive increased visitation to Singapore via FCTG’s global network.

This is FCTG’s first global agreement with a destination partner since the pandemic, and the first time STB has entered into an MOU with a travel company, which will result in joint marketing efforts to promote the Lion City

Singapore has long been a firm favourite with the South African market due to its traditional stopover status on the way to final destinations in Asia and Australasia. The agreement between FCTG and STB will focus on enticing visitors to stay longer and experience Singapore before continuing their long-haul journey.

Aside from joint marketing campaigns, the partnership will also set aside support for FCTG Travel Experts to develop knowledge about Singapore through training and FAM trip experiences. This will equip agents with the latest destination information and allow them to become advocates of Singapore, sharing their experience and knowledge with prospective travellers around the globe.

Overall, the partnership will allow both FCTG and STB to further efforts in driving tourism recovery as the world continues its return to normality following the pandemic.

The announcement was formalised today with the signing of the MOU between FCTG’s Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Graham Turner, and STB’s Chief Executive, Mr. Keith Tan in FCTG’s head office in Brisbane.

Mr Graham Turner said, “This MOU underscores just how much FCTG values Singapore as a major player in the Asia-Pacific travel market. Now that more of the

region’s carriers have resumed routes through Singapore, FCTG is excited to work with STB to cast the limelight back on the city and remind the world just what a spectacular travel destination Singapore is.”

Mr. Keith Tan said, “As we look towards 2024, Singapore’s international visitation numbers are on track to meet pre-pandemic levels, and this partnership with FCTG will play an integral role in supporting those tourism recovery efforts. We look forward to showcasing the wide range of new experiences, attractions, infrastructure and events in Singapore to travellers around the world, via FCTG’s global network, and we can’t wait to welcome them back to the Lion City.”

As an evolving destination that constantly presents new products for visitors, the city has welcomed a raft of new attractions and openings in the past 12-18 months. Most notably, this includes multiple attractions on Sentosa island, including the Central Beach Bazaar, Skyhelix and Scentopia, in addition to a selection of new openings on the mainland, such as Mr Bucket Chocolaterie, and cultural spaces like the Children’s Museum Singapore.

For media queries, please contact:

Adhesive PR on behalf of STB

Emma Rogerson

Email: emma.rogerson@adhesivepr.com.au

Mobile: +61 434 213 894

Locally Issued By:

Big Ambitions on behalf of Flight Centre Travel Group South Africa

Kim Taylor

Email: kim@bigambitions.co.za

Mobile +27 768 255 508

About the Singapore Tourism Board

The Singapore Tourism Board (STB) is the lead development agency for tourism, one of Singapore’s key economic sectors. Together with industry partners and the community, we shape a dynamic Singapore tourism landscape. We bring the Passion Made Possible brand to life by differentiating Singapore as a vibrant destination that inspires people to share and deepen their passions.

More: www.stb.gov.sg or www.visitsingapore.com | Follow us: facebook.com/STBsingapore or linkedin.com/company/singapore-tourism-board

About Flight Centre Travel Group

After starting with one shop in the early 1980s, Flight Centre Travel Group (FCTG) has enjoyed remarkable growth to become one of the largest businesses of its kind in the world. FCTG has company-owned operations in 23 countries and a corporate travel management network that spans more than 90 countries. Key leisure and corporate travel brands in Australia include Flight Centre, Travel Associates, Travel Partners, Travel Money, BYOjet, Corporate Traveller and FCM.

The Flight Centre Travel Group (FCTG)’s Black Friday specials have landed, with South Africans able to save up to 50% on their 2023 travel to top-selling destinations.

“This is the first Black Friday we have had to look forward to in a couple of years,” said Sue Garrett, General Manager Supply, Pricing and Marketing at the Flight Centre Travel Group. “Last year, we pulled all of our Black Friday deals after it was announced that South Africa had been put back on the dreaded red list, leaving many travellers stranded and devastated as their long-awaited holiday was cancelled or postponed. Now, it’s all systems go! We can travel freely, unmasked, and most of the restrictions from COVID -19 have been lifted,” said Garrett.

“Like the rest of the world, South Africa is still suffering from limited air capacity, although we are encouraged that more and more airlines are increasing their frequencies and routes in and out of the country. The best tip for travellers is to book early. Due to reduced flight frequencies, there is still a limited supply of seats, and an immense pent-up demand, so if you book too late, you may be disappointed or pay significantly more. For example, bookings for the December peak season are almost at capacity, so if you want a last-minute holiday to popular destinations, such as Mauritius, the UK and Europe, you’d better book quickly.”

“Flight Centre’s Black Friday deals for 2022 are geared toward travel in 2023, so you can book now, save and secure your trip,” said Garrett.

Deals are released every day from 21 November until Friday 25 November.

South Africans can look forward to the following specials:

• Save up to 50% on touring
• Save up to 50% on cruising
• Save up to R19 500 on island holidays
• Save up to R4 660 on Middle East & Asia holidays
• Save up to R1 320 on local holidays
• 2023 School holidays – Save up to R17 450
  
  

Top tips for snagging a Black Friday deal

Research – do your research in advance. What factors do you need to consider with your chosen holiday? Think about visas, health jabs and other entry information. Visit fctgtravelnews.com for information.

• Create a wish list – research what holidays you would like to have and include nice-to-haves-but-not-essentials. This way, you can quickly make a call if it’s the right holiday for you.
• Up-size your holiday – Now is the time to upgrade and save.
• Know the average price of packages for your chosen destination/s and your preferred dates.
• Have the 2023 school and public holiday calendar handy.
• Read the Terms & Conditions.
• Have your passport information ready.

“We encourage all our customers to shop safely and responsibly this Black Friday,” said Garrett. “Our customers can choose how they wish to shop this year – virtually on our website or face-to-face with a Travel Expert in-store.

Shop Flight Centre Black Friday specials here.

If you need help deciding where to go first, here are just 5 award winning travel experiences to consider for 2023.

A fresh take on safaris

Why not take in the majesty of the bush from a new perspective, such as on a river cruise onboard a comfortable houseboat? You’ll drift along one of Africa’s best-known rivers, while admiring the wildlife on the riverbanks as the animals stop to savour a drink – right in front of you.

According to Kate Powell, General Manager Marketing, Sales and Reservations for the Zambezi Queen Collection, Africa’s leading river cruise company:

“The Zambezi Queen Collection offers two unique water safari experiences to travellers looking for a fresh take on an African safari. Both gliding along the Chobe River, our Zambezi Queen is a larger floating hotel, while our Chobe Princess houseboats are smaller, offering a more intimate and private experience.

Bucketlist Africa

Before the pandemic hit, many people may not have considered bucket-list adventures just a hop, skip and jump across the border. It wasn’t until their freedom to travel was snatched away that they realised that there’s no better time to travel than ‘right now!’ As such, experts predicted that travellers would start planning bigger, more luxurious immersive trips – to explore the magnificent beauty on our doorstep.  

Giltedge, South Africa’s Leading Luxury Tour Operator and South Africa’s Leading Destination Management Company, recommends bucket-list African holidays, such as exploring Namibia’s Skeleton Coast by private flying safari and the Okavango Delta. Other must-sees are the classic Southern Africa highlights and combos such as Victoria Falls and the Chobe River, a Winelands and Sabi Sands safari, Kruger and Botswana, a bush and beach break in Mozambique and trendy Zambia – fast becoming a favourite, ‘undiscovered’ safari destination (think incredible walking safaris in the South Luangwa National Park and North Luangwa National Park).

All-inclusive holidays and cruises

With the ROE doing South Africans no favours, inflation and oil prices, savvy travellers are doing the maths and realising that all-inclusive holidays can offer more value than going DIY or self catering.

“All-inclusive holiday packages, whether on land or cruising, provide holidaymakers with great value for money and remove the stress associated with concerns about how much a getaway is going to end up costing them in the long run,” says Sue Garrett, General Manager Supply, Pricing and Marketing at the Flight Centre Travel Group, recently voted Africa’s leading travel agency and South Africa’s leading travel agency in the World Travel Awards 2022.

“Of course, the added benefit to choosing an all-inclusive package is that it also saves time. There’s no need to spend hours comparing accommodation providers or planning meals. The package provider has done all of the research on your behalf,”adds Garrett.

Over the seas (or continent)

Those who want to travel overseas will find that there are plenty of destinations to add to their wish lists.  

According to Garrett, “Just a few international destinations on our radar are Mauritius, Dubai, Bali, Seychelles and Istanbul, all of which are family-friendly.”

Parenting young kids and not keen to attempt a long-haul flight just yet? Then a beach holiday in Mozambique could be on the cards.

“Most flights from South Africa to Mozambique are less than two and a half hours long, depending on which airport you’re flying from. Once there, the kids and adults alike will enjoy the blissful beaches, warm weather, water sports and marine life. Be sure to look out for accommodation providers offering child-friendly facilities or kids’ clubs for the chance to put your feet up while the children entertain themselves!” says Natalie Tenzer-Silva, Director of Dana Tours in Maputo, who scooped up the award for Mozambique’s leading tour operator for 2022.

Other notable destination suggestions include:

Indian Ocean Islands Leading Destination – Maldives

Africa’s Leading City Destination – Cape Town

Africa’s Leading Destination – Kenya

Indian Ocean’s Leading Wedding Destination – Mauritius

Indian Ocean’s Leading Honeymoon Destination – Seychelles

Africa’s Leading Festival and Event Destination – Durban

Whatever award winning holiday you’ve got on the cards, ensure you book early to avoid disappointment. With travel demand at an all time high, the trend of last minute bookings is fast disappearing.