Tips to have a great summer in Cape Town

If you’re coming to Cape Town this summer and you’re not sure what to expect, we have an easy, handy guide to make sure you can enjoy your holiday without any hiccups. From getting around without any snags to predicting the weather, we want you to leave wanting to come back for more!

WEATHER
Over the summer months Cape Town can be very warm and dry, the days are a lengthy 11 hours long and there can be some strong winds! Your best bet is to check out windguru in the morning so you can plan your day properly. If the wind is going to be gusting rather stay away from the beaches and Table Mountain and hit an indoor activity, like a bar or restaurant at the V&A Waterfront.

MONEY & SAFETY
The local currency in South Africa is the Rand and Foreign Exchange is available around the city. It’s pretty obvious that when you use an ATM you should never ask strangers for help and don’t flash your cash around. The same goes for expensive jewelry, using cellphones and tablets.

Stash, don’t flash! Be aware of suspicious people and try to avoid walking alone at night, especially if you do not know your way around the city. I would also encourage you to never give money to homeless people, rather donate the money!

NIGHTLIFE
When the sun goes down in Cape Town, the city comes to life! There are so many amazing restaurants, bars and clubs to visit. If you plan on hitting the clubs just make sure you go with a local or get your hotel to organise you a guide to avoid getting into trouble. Another obvious note is to never leave your drinks unattended!

GETTING AROUND
Firstly if you’re from another country, here in Cape Town we drive on the left side of the road! With that out of the way, there are plenty of ways for you to get around the beautiful Mother City:
- Shuttle service: If you need a fast, reliable shuttle service too or from Cape Town International Airport make sure to give Airport Shuttle a call!
- Cab or taxi: There are a large number of metered taxis and the average rate is R10/km.
- On foot, bus or bicycle: There are a growing number of tours available by run, bicycle, bus or foot in the city! The City Sightseeing bus is an amazing way to see the city at your own pace. The MyCiTi bus is another quick and easy way to get around the city and surrounds, you will need a pre-paid myconnect card.
- Train: The trains run basic commuter routes into the city and also stretch out along the scenic Southern line; this is an affordable option to travel around the city.

LOOKING OUT FOR THE KIDS
Cape Town is for the whole family. If you need somebody to watch the kids, ask your hotel or try sitters4u. You can also hire strollers, high chairs and other equipment for your kids so you can travel light and you don’t have to lug so much around with you! There are also plenty of children’s programmes at shopping malls and local attractions.

SUN, SEA AND SAND
It gets really hot in Cape Town, so make sure you plan accordingly when you hit the beach. Lots of water and plenty of sunscreen!
- When you swim in the sea, make sure you use safe beaches where life guards are on duty.
- There are shark spotters deployed at several of Cape Town’s beaches along the False Bay coast line and use a flag and alarm system to warn beach users of a shark’s whereabouts, visit shark spotters for more information

THE MOUNTAIN
Table Mountain is undoubtedly one of the city’s biggest attractions, but you need to be cautious when visiting. Follow the safety precautions below to ensure you don’t run into any problems.
- Steer clear of the mountain during bad weather
- Never hike alone
- Always tell someone of your intended route
- Use a qualified mountain guide
- Make sure to take an up to date map, comfortable walking shoes, a cellphone, food, sunblock and plenty of water
- Keep to well used paths
- Baboons can be dangerous so do not feed them or approach them

Cape Town is a beautiful city alive with activities and amazing things to see, make sure you are well prepared and familiar with this guide so you can have a great summer in Cape Town.

Don't forget to contact Airport Shuttle for a reliable, speedy transfer to and from Cape Town International Airport. Contact 808 Cartwright Corner if you need a luxurious, comfy, self-catering apartment in Cape Town for the holidays.

Written By: Christine Romans

The weirdest travel gadgets

These days, it seems there is a product for every type of traveler: the germaphobe, the security freak, the easily bored and so much more! Odd gadgets have been with us for a long time, but since they've become more popular, the manufacturers work at standing outside the norm just to grab a bit more attention. Here are just a few of the quirky, weird products available to travelers these days:

- The Doberman Mini Mobile Alert pickpocket alarm
Imagine you’re strolling down the streets of a beautiful, sometimes unsafe, foreign city famous for its pickpockets, but what if there was a way to keep your wallet and passport safe on your person and safe from sticky fingers? Well, there is. The Doberman Mini Mobile Alert pickpocket alarm! Just attach it to your cellphone, iPod or camera and the other end to your purse, belt or wrist and it will sound off at a startling 95 decibels the moment a thief tries to grab your goods.

- The UpRight Sleeper
 It may resemble a torture device used for choking, but this strange contraption isn't made for spinal injury patients, its actually intended to keep your head steady while you doze off. The UpRight Sleeper supports the weight of your head while keeping the neck comfortably aligned and prevents the head from falling forward or sideways during sleep. There is also an attached back strap that is between the back and the seat to hold it securely in place.

- Glyde Gear Backpack
Are you too lazy to carry or pull your bag? Well you can race through terminals with the Glyde Gear Backpack! This first of its kind back pack not only offers you the standard features of an ordinary back pack but it can also be rolled like a piece of luggage and better yet just lower the foot platform and ride it like a scooter. Please note: helmet not included.

- USB Air-Conditioned Shirt

Okay so this weird shirt pretty much takes the cake. Just plug it into a laptop and the built-in fans whir into action – just perfect for stuffy flights and airport gates! The USB shirt has two fans, one on the left and one on the right, there is also an external switch on the USB cable to adjust the fan speed. If you don’t have a USB slot nearby the shirt is also powered by four AA batteries, it can even plug into the cigarette lighter in your car – because it’s such a great idea to hook up your body to your cars electrical system!

- Tugo Cup
This “unique” design is a cup holder that keeps your drink suspended between the upright handles of your rolling bag, it is easily attached and removed and can be collapsed to fit into any pocket of your carry-on luggage. Apparently it was made to keep an extra hand free and introduce a more convenient way of transporting your cup of coffee, but maybe the emergency room nurse who invented it should have thought about the risks of scalding as the boiling hot coffee sloshes around.

So these are a few of the weirdest travel gadgets and gizmos on the market today, USB air-conditioned shirts and back packs that turn into scooters. Is it possible that one day these weird gadgets will be as popular as the ordinary toaster? I wouldn't bet on it.

Contact 808 Cartwright Corner today to book yourself a luxurious, comfy, self-catering apartment these holidays! Don't forget Airport Shuttle in Cape Town can also offer you a speedy shuttle service to and from Cape Town International Airport.

Written By: Christine Romans

How to overcome your fear of flying

Do you wish you could travel to faraway places and see the world – without having a panic attack? If you have a fear of flying there are ways you can prevent it from negatively affecting your life, here’s one thing that may help: your chances of dying in a plane crash are about 1 in 11 million, that’s a whopping 0.00001% chance that something will go wrong!

1. Latch onto triggers that set you off.
Figure out what scares you and how your anxiety is triggered; your goal here is to identify your particular triggers so you can manage your fear when your anxiety levels are low. When you learn what sets you off, it’ll make it easier to turn off.

2. Step onto the airplane with knowledge.
Anxiety thrives off of ignorance and feeds of “what if?” which are all catastrophic thoughts, but once you become knowledgeable your “what if?” thoughts are limited by the facts. So become familiar with the facts they will not eliminate your anxiety, but they’ll help you manage it.

 3. Anticipate your anxiety.
Anticipatory anxiety is what we experience in anticipation of a fear. It is often the most intense anxiety you will experience during your flight, but this isn't how you will feel on the flight. It is a lot worse than what you actually experience

4. Separate dear from danger.
It is difficult to separate anxiety from danger because your body reacts in exactly the same way to both, so be sure to label your fear as anxiety. Tell yourself that anxiety makes your frightening thoughts feel more likely to occur and remind yourself that feeling anxious doesn't mean you are in danger. You are safe even when feeling intense anxiety.

5. Recognize that common sense makes no sense.
Anxiety tricks common sense. It will trick you into thinking you are in danger even when you are perfectly safe, your gut feelings in these instances will always tell you to avoid, but if you follow these feelings you will be reinforcing your anxiety.

You can outsmart your anxiety. As a rule, do the opposite of what anxious feelings are telling you to do, so fight what the anxiety is telling you to do, but embrace the discomfort that the anxiety brings.

6. Smooth over things that go bump in the flight.

To manage your anxiety when turbulence hits, learn about airplanes and how they are designed to handle turbulence. Focus on managing your anxiety, rather than when it hits will end or how bad it might get. Always remind yourself that you are safe.

If you face the facts, using relaxation techniques and taking medication you can always face your fear of flying and be free to explore the world!

For an airport shuttle that you can trust, contact Airport Shuttle in Cape Town for a speedy, reliable ride! Still looking for a place to rest your head this weekend? 808 Cartwright is the luxurious, self-catering apartment for you. 

Written By: Christine Romans

The most awkward moments in travel

Air travel is one of the most amazing things – you can go to the opposite ends of the country in hours or even the other side of the world in less than a day! But for all its wonders, there are some awkward and uncomfortable moments unique to flying and when you think about them it makes you wonder why you even bothered to leave the house at all. I bet you have found yourself in at least one of these cringe worthy situations:

Trying to find a ride to the airport – That awkward moment when you realise you aren't as close with your friends as you thought you were. Yes, it’s a pain because of the traffic and will take up a lot of their day, but don’t they remember the time you helped them move? Obviously not, so rather call Airport Shuttle for a speedy, reliable ride to the airport!

Realising your luggage is overweight – Okay so rather than paying the crazy fee, you try to repack everything to get things under the limit. Meaning everyone in the airport will see your embarrassing Tinkerbell undies and the teddy bear you still carry around with you.

Getting ready to go through the security line – You have to take off almost everything, your shoes, belt, jacket and jewelry. Not to mention you have to awkwardly unpack everything you so carefully squashed into your backpack, and don’t forget your toiletries! Don’t forget walking around the airport barefoot is also pretty embarrassing.

The security pat down – You forgot about the metal clip in your hair, you've set off the alarm and now you have to be moved to the side for special screening. Prepare yourself to be groped a bit in public and then asked rather loudly if you have any piercings that aren't visible (awkward)

Sprinting to catch your flight – No matter how hard you try there’s always that point where you end up running full speed through the airport with your bags flying behind you! You can thank traffic, being taken to the wrong terminal or just plain bad planning; no matter what the reason this is how it all ends.

Going to the bathroom – if you've got a window seat this means you’ll be inconveniencing as many people as possible, if they refuse to move it could end up being a very awkwardly positioned situation that you’ll have to endure every time you go to the bathroom. Add in the fact that you’ll probably have to stand in line with your rear end in the face of the poor folks in the back row.

Having a conversation with people in your row – This can be extremely uncomfortable for many reasons! Obviously your seatmate next to you didn't pick up that the headphones on your ears are a sign that you don’t really want to talk. Or there’s the oversharer who decides to tell you his or her life story in graphic, inappropriate detail and to make it worse you can’t escape through the plane’s window.

 So maybe you've never had to clamber over your seatmate to get to the bathroom, or had an embarrassing talk with the old man next to you on your flight, but chances are if you’re a regular traveler sooner or later you’ll find yourself in one of these uncomfortable, embarrassing situations.

Book in at 808 Cartwright Corner for an affordable, comfy self-catering apartment and don't stress about finding a ride to the airport because Airport Shuttle can provide a fast, reliable shuttle transfer to and from Cape Town International Airport.

Written By: Christine Romans

Foods you should never eat before flying

It is the holiday season and many of us are booking flights to visit family, friends or just to go on vacation. What you eat before you get on board can make a big impact on how you feel once you’re in the air, so leave those dining disasters off your pre-flight checklist and you’ll avoid the dreaded “jet bloat”, being the stinky seatmate and other flying horrors.

Beans
Always avoid anything that can cause access gas build up in your tummy, that means the obvious suspects like beans, broccoli and cabbage. You don’t want to spend the entire flight feeling bloated and no one on board will appreciate a gassy passenger.

Fizzy drinks
Yes, fizzy drinks can cause flatulence. Not only that but drinks with caffeine will keep you from sleeping and cause multiple trips to the bathroom. The carbonation will probably also cause you to burp continuously and get heartburn.

Garlic
Everyone knows it – garlic cause bad breath. Having stinky garlic breath while you’re in the tight quarters of a plane is not a nice thing for the passengers around you, plus it can also cause bad body odor.

French fries
The wonderful smell of fries in the airport can be your biggest weakness, but you need to fight the urges and avoid eating them before you get on your flight! The fats and oils in fried food can cause heart burn which leads to a very uncomfortable flight.

Alcohol
You might want to calm your nerves and indulge in some much needed alcoholic beverages, but alcohol has a dehydrating effect. Since the air in the airplane is also very dry, drinking alcohol can make it even worse.

Burgers
A lot of people have difficulty digesting meat; if you decide to eat a huge cheeseburger before you get on board you might find yourself having digestive issues the whole flight. Plus eating a lot of meat can cause a very unpleasant body odor, and nobody wants that!

Coffee
You might like to grab a cup of coffee before you get on your flight, but it’s actually best to avoid it! It not only leaves you with coffee breath, but it can leave you jittery, dehydrated and with an irritated bladder.

Hot peppers
Spicy food can cause discomfort in your stomach and bladder irritation, it can also leave you with a burning mouth. You don’t want to deal with your mouth feeling on fire during the whole flight, so it’s best to avoid the hot peppers.

Fruits
Avoid apples at all costs, they are very hard to digest and can leave you very gassy. Orange juice should also be avoided as it can be very acidic and lead to heartburn, plus it can make you urinate more and you don’t want to be trekking up and down the plane the whole flight.

Chewing gum
Gum might stop your ears from popping, but guess what the more you chew the more air you swallow which leads to gas build up in your stomach and that means being bloated! The artificial sweetener in the chewing gum can also cause flatulence, and nobody wants that!

If you feel hungry before your flight, or during the flight make your trip more pleasant and make sure to always avoid these foods, they should probably be saved for when you land in your destination.

Contact Airport Shuttle for a reliable, speedy airport transfer to and from Cape Town International Airport. For a comfy, affordable self-catering apartment, contact 808 Cartwright and book in now!

Written By: Christine Romans

What to do in Cape Town this weekend (12th – 14th December)

There’s something for everyone in Cape Town this weekend, so get your activities planned right now! Whether it be a superb supper, a hilarious comedy show or a wonderful Christmas wonderland, here is your weekend wrap-up…

Friday dinner at Borage Bistro – 12^th December
What a better way to ease into the weekend than with a delicious dinner and some sultry live tunes at the urban-chic Borage Bistro. For everyone who has worked a full week and needs to relax a little, the easy-going and elegant dinners are just the thing for you! Dimmed lights, candles, live acoustic tunes and let’s not forget the food! There is a wide variety to choose from: Chicken Terrine with lentils, celery, onions, chervil and croutes or a Beef Fillet with risotto, mushrooms and tomatoes. Perhaps you just have a craving for something sweet like the lemon tart or sticky toffee pudding, there’s something to suit everyone.

Date: 12 December 2014
Time: 18:30 – 21:00
Venue: Borage Bistro
Price: Variable

Joe Barber comedy show – 13^th December
Prepare yourself for a laugh-a-minute show at the Baxter Theatre this Saturday evening! Once again Boeta Joe and Boeta Gamat take the stage for Joe Barber: Life, after a round of hilarious shows in the beginning of the year and a sold-out nation tour, they are back in Cape Town for another round of laughs. This performance by the hilarious duo (they take on all four characters) is simply something you cannot miss.

Date: 13 December 2014
Time: 20:00 – 22:15
Venue: Baxter Theatre
Price: R95 – R180

Christmas Wonderland in Stellenbosch – 14^th December
Are you and your family for a white Christmas that you’ll only see in those classic festive movies and books? Well, come and see the Sandringham Farm transformed into a snow-filled holiday wonderland from the 12^th to the 24^th of December. This family-friendly occasion is jam-packed with activities, here’s what to expect: Christmas markets and gifts, kid’s activities, fire eaters, stilt walkers, and plenty of food stalls. This amazing winter wonderland is sure to bring festive cheer your way!

Date: 14 December 2014
Time: 10:00 – 22:00
Venue: Sandringham Farm
Price: FREE – R80

With so much happening in Cape Town this weekend, it’s not a case of what to do in the Mother City, but rather can you fit it all in? So, grab your family and friends and make sure to hit at least one of these awesome occasions in Cape Town this weekend!

If you're visiting Cape Town this weekend be sure to book yourself in at the luxurious, self-catering 808 Cartwright and enjoy the amazing views! Do you need an airport transfer? Contact Airport Shuttle Cape Town and they can provide a reliable, speedy shuttle service too and from Cape Town International Airport.

Written By: Christine Romans

Holiday travel – How to make it less stressful

It’s great to go home for the holidays; it’s all part of the joy of the season, but for many of us getting there can be super-stressful! It’s you, with bags full of Christmas presents, copious amounts of luggage and don’t forget the kids in tow and you’re up against flight delays, crowded airports and 12 hour long flights. There are tips that can help you escape the heartache and headache of holiday travel, here are a few:

Tip 1: Book early
Beat stress by making your travel plans as early as possible, that way you’ll get cheaper deals and more flexible schedules, try to also pick non-stop flights if you can. Avoid travelling on the busiest dates at all costs – two days before and after Christmas and New years are the most stressful days to travel.

Tip 2: Get digital
Before you leave to go on holiday make sure you have plenty of entertainment, whether it be games, movies and series on your tablet or laptop. The familiarity of your favourite TV show or game can really help to fight boredom and stress, not to mention it can entertain the kids for hours on end. Be sure to also bring earphones, backup batteries and chargers!

Tip 3: Travel light
If you have loads of Christmas gifts and luggage consider shipping them ahead of time, you’ll get rid of all that luggage hassle and you won’t have to drag around 10kg of bags. If you really must travel with your gifts, keep them unwrapped in case security needs to examine your stuff.

Tip 4: Stay well-fed
An empty stomach is one of the reasons why travelers get really cranky and grumpy! It’s easy to beat boredom on a flight with some snacks, especially for the kids. Before you get on the plane make sure you are all stocked up on healthy, non-messy snacks and treats, choose high-fiber and protein foods so you feel fuller for longer.

Tip 5: Remember that others are stress too
Holiday travel can be hectic for everyone involved, so take a deep breath, put a smile on your face and stay positive! Remember that getting away from familiar schedules and surroundings can be extra stressful for kids, so make sure to bring their favourite toys and books. The most important thing to keep in mind is that getting upset with the airport personnel doesn't help at all, stay calm, say kind words and keep an upbeat attitude.

Why do we always end up with that pit in our stomachs, clenched teeth and raised voices at least once during our holiday trips? Because stress strikes for many reasons and we need to know how to avoid it and control it so we have a happy, stress-free vacation!

Contact Airport Shuttle in Cape Town for a reliable, stress-free shuttle transfer too and from Cape Town International Airport. Don't stress about finding accommodation either, 808 Cartwright is the perfect affordable, self-catering apartment for you!

Written By: Christine Romans 

Surviving the middle seat on your flight

Which would you prefer: sitting in the middle seat for a long flight or having a hole drilled in your head? A recent survey was done to determine the top five middle seat annoyances:

1. Having a nosy seatmate peering over your shoulder
2. Crawling over someone to get to the bathroom
3. Not being able to stretch out
4. Having an overweight seatmate on either side of you
5. Not having a place to rest your head

If you’re a traveler there’s a chance you will be doomed to the middle seat at some point, here are some tips to avoid and survive the middle seat.

Make a narrow escape – Your first chance to escape the middle seat is to select an aisle or window when your first book your flight, however some airlines charge an additional fee, but it’s definitely worth it! If the worst happens and you discover that only middle seats are available then contact the airline to enquire if any better seats have become available, even if you have to pay for an upgrade!

You have prime placement on the armrests – Travelers often get confused about proper armrest etiquette, there is a rule of thumb that has worked for many people over the years: the person in the middle seat has priority when it comes to the armrests on both sides. Passengers in the more comfortable seats on either side of the middle seat will get the slightly less comfortable part of the armrest – it’s only fair!

Go before you go – If there was ever a time to behave like a four year old and visit the bathroom multiple times in the airport before your flight, this is it! And if you do ever have to get up from your seat during the flight do it before the person starts watching a movie, reading a book or falls asleep!

Use sleep and comfort aids – No, I don’t mean drugs, but rather neck pillows, eye covers, noise cancelling headphones or anything else that can make it possible for you to sleep or rest while sitting straight with nothing to lean on.

Surrender – If you do end up in the dreaded window seat, it will help if you just accept early that its not gonna be fun, easy or comfortable, so you might as well make the best of it! It’s going to be horrible, but sooner or later you will be on the ground. In other words: this too shall pass.

People dislike the middle seat so much that they will go to great lengths to avoid it; some travelers would even stay an extra night at their hotel than h

ave to endure the middle seat! It’s true that majority of us would rather go to the dentist than have to tell a seatmate that you have to go to the bathroom.

Contact Airport Shuttle in Cape Town for a reliable, speedy shuttle service to and from Cape Town International Airport! Need a place to stay? 808 Cartwright Corner is the perfect, affordable self-catering apartment. 

Written By: Christine Romans

What NOT to do at your hotel

Whether you’re staying in a hotel, guest house or self-catering apartment, you should definitely use your head at all times. It’s essential to have some kind of awareness about your surroundings, anything can happen, from over the top hidden fees or hazardous falling windows – you need to be prepared for whatever lurks beyond the lobby. Here are the five major things you shouldn't do at your hotel:

- Don’t lean on the window -

There have many tales of unsafe hotel windows, some have even appeared in the news. In June 2011 a 2 year old fell two stories from a hotel window, she survived, but things like this remind you to be extra careful! Always remember that you should never lean on the hotel window, especially in places where alcohol flows freely from the minibar.

- Don’t touch the minibar -

Remember the days when you could quickly guzzle down a tiny bottle of vodka, fill it back up with water and pray the hotel won’t notice the cracked seal? Well, those days are long gone. Thanks to the new minibar sensors, even you even so much as touch or move a Coke bottle, you’ll immediately get charged! Unless you’re staying somewhere that isn't so strict about their minibars, keep your hand to yourself.

- Don’t use the bedspread or drink from the glassware -

To all the germaphobes out there, always remember that a hotel is a hotbed of micro-organisms, so the dreaded floral duvet that probably hasn't been washed since the Dark Age and the glasses (they touch your mouth) should be avoided at all costs! There are some easy solutions to these problems though – wash out the glassware thoroughly with hot water and soap and for the bedspread? Take a hanger from the cupboard, use it to lift the top blanket off the bed and drop it on the floor!

- Don’t walk around in your robe - 

Okay, it’s understandable, the robe is comfortable and the hotel spa is just down the stairs. You paid for the room so why can’t you walk around the hotel like it’s your own house? The thing is, the hotel is not your home and there are plenty of strangers around sharing the building with you, so stay classy and keep the robe-wearing for inside your private room.

- Don’t skim through your check-out bill -

Express check-outs are available in so many ways these days, through the rooms TV, email or even on the hotel’s own smartphone app, it’s just so easy to click CHECK OUT and be on your way. But, these bills often have mistakes like double charging for WiFi and minibar items, if you take the time to just check over the bill properly then you can correct the mistakes right then and there.

A bit of prevention can really stop something horrible from ruining your holiday and the purpose of these tips is not to strike fear into your heart, but to make sure you are informed!

After reading this, you're probably searching for great, high quality accommodation for your next trip! Give 808 Cartwright a call, for a luxurious, affordable, self-catering apartment. Need an airport shuttle service to get there? Airport Shuttle Cape Town can provide you with a great, reliable shuttle service to and from Cape Town International Airport.   

Written By: Christine Romans
Copy Writer at The Computer Guyz Cape Town

What to do in Cape Town this weekend (28th – 30th November)

It’s the last weekend of the month of November, the weather is heating up and the festive season is upon us, so it’s time to plan your exciting weekends for the summer. Here are some awesome activities for you to do this upcoming weekend…

Holiday fun at Ratanga Junction – 28 November

If you live in Cape Town and you haven’t visited Ratanga Junction yet, you’re missing out! The amazing theme park has over 23 rides, although its best known for the Cobra and Monkey Falls, these hair-raising rides are only part of the fun, there are other attractions for children, families and for those who prefer to keep the adrenaline rush to a minimum!

Date: 25 Nov – 26 Jan 2015
Time: 10:00 – 17:00
Venue: Ratanga Junction
Price: R65 – R172

The Galileo Open Air Cinema
– 29 November
Grab your family, your best friends or your partner and head over to this beautiful open air cinema in the Cape Winleands. Enjoy your favourite film underneath the stars with your loved ones or just take in the breath-taking surroundings of the historic vineyards and mountain ranges. Don’t stress about the films, because there will be a huge variety from romance to musicals and action flicks, there’s something for everyone!

Date: 29 November
Time: 19:30 – 22:00
Venue: Lourensford Wine Estate
Price: R70 – R110

Blues Restaurant’s Seaside Sunday Lunch – 30 November
Say goodbye to the weekend at this cozy, relaxed Camps Bay eatery. Sundays are made for sleeping late, sitting by the sea and enjoying a day with family and friends, take the meaning of lazy to a whole new level and visit the Blues Restaurant. You’ll be transported into the ocean with an array of delicious meals, choose anything from linefish, tuna and calamari or something hearty like sirloin, lamb chops and venison.  

Date: 30 November
Time: 12:00 – 23:00
Venue: Blues Restaurant and Bar
Price: Variable

Gather your friends, family and all your loved ones and end off the month by enjoying the beautiful Mother City this weekend, don’t miss the opportunity to truly enjoy it. From rollercoaster rides to lazy days by the beach, it’s everything you could ask for in one weekend.

For a self-catering apartment that's hard to forget, visit 808 Cartwright for comfy, relaxing accommodation. If you're in need of a reliable airport transfer to and from Cape Town International Airport, give Airport Shuttle in Cape Town a call - its an affordable, well-maintained ride.  

What not to pack when you’re travelling

There’s always the issue when packing of what not to bring and what you NEED to bring, the main goal is to be able to carry your luggage around without huffing and puffing and completely losing your breath. When we’re forced to make the awful decision and choose between our favourite things, most of the time it’s just easier to pack it all! Everyone’s packing style is different and we all have our own travel needs, but if you leave out a few of the following items on your next trip and we promise you won’t miss a thing!

Don’t pack your entire beauty routine:  If you use 12 different products on your hair, leave some of them at home when you’re travelling, instead of carrying two extra bags with you filled with beauty products. If you’re worried about looking like a troll in your holiday photos, trust me it won’t happen if you just use shampoo and conditioner for a few nights.

Don’t pack more clothes than you need: Clothes take up majority of the space in your suitcase, if you reduce the amount of outfits, it can reduce the load significantly. No one wants to run out of clean underwear in the middle of the forest, but that doesn't mean you have to pack enough clothes to change outfits three times a day.

Don’t pack your jewelry and valuables: So you can’t imagine living without your grandmother’s wedding ring or your expensive Rolex watch? Well, it’s best not to cart it overseas! Tourists are the main targets for criminals, you may think you look like a million bucks, but to thieves you just look like an easy target.

Don’t pack unnecessary gadgets: This part applies to you if you've ever packed things like nightlights, portable DVD players, coffee makers or toothbrush sanitizers, but then you never touch them once throughout the whole trip. The important thing to ask yourself is: “Do I really need that electronic language translator?” before you try and stuff it into your overflowing suitcase.

Over packing can cost a lot more than extra suitcase space and a free hand, if you check more than one bag or exceed the weight limit it can cost you a lot of extra cash, so before you get upset about leaving your favourite prized possession at home, remember that these suggestions might help you out a lot.

For an affordable airport shuttle service in Cape Town, contact Airport Shuttle! They offer a fast, reliable ride for a great price. If you're looking for a comfy, self-catering apartment too, 808 Cartwright is your best bet!

7 things you should never wear on an airplane

So we've all done a little travelling in our lives, we've all seen some strange people on our flights, and there are certain things that people wear in the airport or on the flight that just make you cringe! It’s as if some passengers seem to think that the plane is their bed and airport is their bedroom. Okay I understand it’s essential to be comfortable on your flight, but there’s a difference between casual and just looking plain sloppy, here some things you should NEVER wear on an airplane:

1. Pajamas

It seems obvious, right? Pajamas are what you sleep in, in private, in your own bedroom! Find something comfy, but appropriate like a T-shirt and track pants, but please don’t rock up at the airport in your fluffy, pink bathrobe.

2. Shorts

The exception for this rule is if you’re flying from one tropical island to the next, but if you’re not – put some pants on! Why? Because airplanes are dirty and cold, its always best to have as little skin exposed on your seat as possible.

3. Slip Slops
What if there’s an accident, how are you going to make a run for it when you’re in your slip slops? Plus majority of feet are very unattractive, imagine having to see and smell someone’s extra-long toenails for 12 hours.

4. Excessive perfume or deodorant
A little perfume on yourself is perfect, but spraying your entire body with perfume or AXE deodorant can be nauseating for some people. The smell doesn't only affect the poor guy sitting next to you, but it’ll spread throughout the whole airplane.

5. Lack of perfume or deodorant
Maybe you’re the totally natural type of person and you feel that deodorant is harmful to yourself and the environment, that’s 100% fine, but please just deal with it for a few hours and put a little on! Think about the person sitting next to you, you think that you smell fine, but you may not be the best judge.

6. Super short skirts and revealing shirts
A plane is not a club, there is no need for you to wear a mini skirt and a low cut shirt, think for a minute about the other people on the plane. There are families with small children, people going to funerals and important business meetings; an airplane is not a place to show off your whole body. Keep it classy.

7. A ski jacket or bulky coat in the middle of summer
There is no need for you to alarm the other passengers into thinking you’re hiding something dangerous under that massive (unnecessary) jacket. If you’re someone who gets really cold on airplanes, simply layer your clothes, wear a jersey or bring along a small blanket.

Think about these things before you leave for your flight, the pilot and the flight attendants are trying their best to look professional, how would you feel if your pilot was flying the plane while wearing his pajamas and slippers? Not very safe, right? So you should respect their place of work and try to look as professional as you can.

For a reliable, fast airport transfer to and from Cape Town International Airport in Cape Town, contact Airport Shuttle Cape Town. Need a place to stay too? 808 Cartwright can provide you with a comfy, self-catering apartment for an affordable price.

Smell the world at London Heathrow Airport

Do you know what South Africa smells like? Don’t worry, the new “scent globe” at Heathrow Airport’s terminal 2 in London knows exactly what we smell like, and with the press of a button you  can be transported back to South Africa in a single sniff.

So it’s a globe that shares the smells of the world, the strange thing is the scented world globe describes South Africa as an “the adventure of safari with notes of tribal incense, wild grass and musky animalics through the scent of Hyraceum". What the heck is Hyraceum? I live in South Africa and I've never once smelled Hyraceum, turns out it’s the petrified and rock-like excrement composed of both urine and feces excreted by the Cape Hyrax and it’s used in traditional South African medicine and perfumery.

Okay, so let’s look past the fact that South Africa apparently smells like wild grass and animal feces, when they should’ve at least put the smell of “braai meat on the coals with a hint of cold beer”, because the globe has actually turned out to be very popular.

The scent globe is situated in the departure lounge at Heathrow’s new terminal 2 and its only been open for five months, but it has already seen about 3.5 million passengers. While the idea still seems a bit strange to me, scents are a very powerful part of both experiencing a new place and feeling at home.

Heathrow officials worked with Design in Scent to produce the individual scents and they’re meant to take passengers on a sensory journey before even setting foot on their flights, here are the scents of the countries represented:

Japan: "is brought to life through cool, oceanic tones with a mix of seaweed and shell extracts, green tea and Ambergris, capturing the essence of small coastal villages so synonymous with the great Pacific Island."
China: "mystical temple incense and subtle Osmanthus Fragrans flower"
Thailand: "an appetizing mix of lemongrass, ginger and coconut."
Brazil: "embraces the scents of its rich rainforest fauna with a palette of coffee, tobacco and jasmine."
And of course we know the South African scent: "the adventure of safari with notes of tribal incense, wild grass and musky animalics through the scent of Hyraceum."

The airport plans to make Heathrow a pleasant place to stop over since they connect more than 72 million passengers to 180 destinations in 28 countries in just a year, the specially created scents will give the passengers travelling through Terminal 2 an exclusive preview of destinations that only Heathrow connects to.

Contact Airport Shuttle for a fast, reliable ride to and from Cape Town International Airport. Accommodation issues? Call 808 Cartwright for an affordable, comfy, self-catering apartment.

Written By: Christine Romans

Signs that you have a packing problem

Whether you’re going on a long holiday out of the country or just a weekend away somewhere close by, packing for your trip can sometimes be quite a problem. If you've ever had to pay an extra baggage fee, left your passport at home or cleaned up a shampoo spill in your bag, you might have a bit of a packing issue. To help your trip preparation go smoothly and avoid these crises, there are some easy, effective solutions:

Warning Sign 1 – A wrinkled wardrobe
Do you really want to spend time ironing your clothes in your hotel when you could be out enjoying your trip. If your clothes ever come out of your suitcase looking like they’re been lying on your bedroom floor for three weeks, you may want to change your packing strategy.

Solution:
- Try to stick to wrinkle free clothing rather than normal cottons and linens
- Don’t actually pack your bag until shortly before your departure
- Be sure to unpack your clothes and hang them up as soon as you get to your hotel
- Roll or interlock your clothes instead of folding them

Warning Sign 2 – Damaged goods
There’s nothing worse than arriving home and discovering that your precious souvenirs are lying in pieces at the bottom of your suitcase. If you've ever had an item destroyed or had your clothes damaged by a messy spill, you may need a few lessons on packing with extra care.

Solution:
- Never, ever put breakable items in your checked luggage
- Wrap fragile items in newspaper, bubble wrap or clothing and keep them in your carry-on bag
- If you've bought an item that’s too big to fit on your carry-on then just have it shipped home for you
- Any item that can potentially leak (toothpaste, shampoo, shower gel, perfume) should be sealed tightly and packed into a zip-top plastic bag

Warning Sign 3 – Too much baggage
Does it take three flight attendants plus a bodybuilder to lift your carry-on bag into the overhead compartment? If you answered yes then you need to learn how to lighten your load, no one wants to pay those nasty access baggage fees for over packing.

Solution:
- It’s worth it to buy a lightweight bag to give you a few extra Kg's to work with
- Check the weather forecast beforehand, if it shows nothing but sunshine, leave your huge winter jacket at home
- Call your hotel and check what amenities will be in your room, chances are you won’t have to bring your shampoo or hairdryer

Warning Sign 4 – Pre-trip panic
Are you unable to sleep the night before a trip, because you’re absolutely terrified that you've forgotten to pack something? Or even worse you arrive at your destination and realize that you actually have forgotten something vital, the trick is to stay organized and give yourself plenty of time to pack and it’ll get rid of your pre-trip jitters.

Solution:
- Don’t start packing the day, or hour before your trip
- Mentally walk through your trip and plan out outfits and items in advance
- Make a list and check off items as you pack them in
- Just remember there are few things you can’t just buy if you've forgotten to pack them

If you think your suitcase-stuffing strategy needs a bit of work, then remember to use these easy solutions before you go on your trip, nothing can ruin a holiday faster than a silly packing problem.

Call Airport Shuttle in Cape Town if you need an affordable, reliable, well-maintained shuttle service to transport you to and from Cape Town International Airport. Perhaps you still need a place to stay for your trip? 808 Cartwright is a comfy, self-catering apartment that can be your accommodation solution. 

5 Things NOT to do when booking accommodation

Imagine you’re on an amazing trip, but when you arrive at your accommodation you discover a small, broken TV in a smelly, ugly room – holiday ruined. Even if you endured a horrible flight or a cramped car, a terrible hotel room is different for one reason: you have to live in it, so there’s no escape!

Your accommodation choice may as well be the most important decision you have to make when planning a trip, to help you get the best room in the best location at the best price here are some things not to do when booking your accommodation.

Don’t forget to check the location: You may find a hotel, B&B or apartment that seems to be in the perfect location, but when you arrive you find out the views are terrible or even worse it’s in the middle of a busy intersection. The easiest way to prevent this sort of problem from happening is to see the site for yourself, most websites include a map of some sort or just use Google street view to get a good look.

Don’t skip the review sites: Its best to know as much as possible about the property before you decide to book yourself in, use review sites like TripAdvisor, Yelp or check the reviews on their website. There is always something you will find out with the help of the people who have stayed there before like bad food, old fashioned rooms and gross bathrooms.

Don’t forget to check if the hotel/apartment/B&B has an airport shuttle: I don’t think anyone is a huge fan of public transportation to and from the airport, carrying your entire luggage around to the bus stop and then on the bus itself can be a horrible experience. And don’t forget that getting to and from your accommodation can be really expensive, so make sure to check if they offer a complimentary shuttle service or even one for a cheaper price.

Don’t be afraid to ask for a better rate: One of the simplest and easiest ways to get a better rate at your accommodation is to ask for one! It’s not that hard to just ask something like “Are there any special rates available?” From just asking that simple question they will often offer a better rate one way or the other.

Don’t be afraid to call them directly: If you've found a hotel that is showing there are no rooms available, high rates or lack of special needs rooms, just call them directly. The front desk will often have information about cancellations or additional rooms; even if you have a simple question like “Are there any pet-friendly rooms?” or “How much is breakfast?” they can answer you immediately which is much faster than waiting for an email reply.

You have to pay for your hotel, B&B or apartment every day you stay there, so make sure you use these simple tricks and plan head to ensure your holiday is all smooth sailing.

Enjoy an affordable, luxurious, self-catering apartment at 808 Cartwright and you can even avoid the public transport by booking a comfortable, well-maintained shuttle service with Airport Shuttle!

Written By: Christine Romans

How to beat the heat while travelling

Summer is probably the most popular time to travel, but it’s definitely the most uncomfortable time too, especially when you’re travelling to a sweltering location like Cape Town. Scorching temperatures and humidity can affect every part of your travel experience including getting to and around airports, sightseeing, lodging, health issues and even the most basic thing like sleeping well at night. Learn how to beat the heat and keep your cool with these helpful tips:

Stay hydrated
Always drink water regularly when you’re travelling, whether you are being active or not you should drink more fluids than normal. Drink cold water to bring down your core temperature and try to purchase some oral rehydration salts.

Pack your sunscreen
Even if you expect to be indoors most of the time, always pack your sunscreen just in case. Avoiding sunburn is an essential part of staying cool; if you get sunburnt it can add to the feeling of overheating.

Eat lighter meals

The fuel in your tummy can heat up the rest of your body, make you feel really heavy and it can take away precious water from your system. Try to choose a meal that will keep you full and hydrated at the same time.

Wear the right clothing
Loose fitting, lightweight and light-coloured clothing is the way to go. Always avoid dark colours and lots of layers; also try to wear cotton and natural fabrics instead of materials like polyester. Cotton will help you keep cool by absorbing and releasing heat and sweat while polyester will trap it and make you feel even hotter.

Wear a hat
Not only will a hat protect you from sunburn but it will also help to keep you nice and cool. It’s important to keep the sun off the back of your neck – this has a big impact on your internal temperature.

Check ahead
There is no excuse for not knowing what the weather will be like where you’re headed, there are plenty of reliable forecasts for almost every place on the planet. You should also check the weather at the airport and all the stops along the way.

Cluster your activities by location
Dragging yourself all over the place can be brutal in the hot summer sun, if you plan out your days to cluster activities together by location or neighbourhood, you can avoid long, hot walks or overheating on bus rides.

Have some ice cream
It’s delicious, it’s fun to eat and it’ll bring down your core temperature! Yes, water or juice will do the job, but it doesn't compare to eating an ice cream on a hot day!

Uncomfortably high temperatures can cause a lot of discomfort and dehydration, not to mention heat stroke and heat rash. Don’t get caught feeling like you’re travelling in an oven, use these simple tricks to keep yourself cool as a cucumber.

If you're making your way to the Mother City, check in at 808 Cartwright for a bright, comfy, self-catering apartment. Don't have transport there? Never fear Airport Shuttle can get you to and from Cape Town International Airport in an affordable and reliable way!

Written By: Christine Romans