Common Travel Disasters

You have your spare underwear, your inflatable neck pillow and your guidebooks, but do you know how to deal with certain travel disasters that could plan you’re perfectly planned holiday? Putting travel disasters at the back of your mind will not prevent them from happening, but if you break your leg while hiking or lose your passport gets stolen somewhere the right amount of preparation can certainly ease your pain.

Lost/Stolen Passport
- It is a travelers worse nightmare; opening your bag, purse or wallet and discovering that your passport has disappeared, whether it’s lost or stolen, you’ll never know! The main dilemma is that it’s gone and you should act immediately, return to your hotel and search from corner to corner for it; if that is unsuccessful contact the embassy right away.

Missed Flight- It’s a bit unfair if you think about it, your flight could be hours late and of course you don’t get an apology, but if you are two minutes late, running to the gate the last millisecond just as boarding ends, you’ve pretty much botched up your flight. It’s a good idea to always arrive at least 2-3 hours before your flight, missing a flight could happen to anyone, even if you’re always on time things like security checkpoints to stormy weather can mess up your timing.

Lost Luggage- You see the bags coming towards you on the conveyer belt, but where’s yours? Even though you used a neon green luggage strap you still can’t spot it, you've probably realized at this time that the Airline has lost your luggage. Always hang on to your baggage claim ticket and make sure your name and contact details are on a label on the outside and inside of your bag incase this awful event happens.

Illness or Injury on the Road- Getting sick away from the comfort of your home can be quite frightening, whether the doctors don’t speak English or you don’t understand the procedures in a foreign hospital, the best way to deal with it is to prepare for the problem before you depart. It’s an important idea to research the country’s emergency numbers, embassy phone number and address, and local English-speaking doctors and hospitals before your trip.

Read through these travel disasters and keep them in mind when you’re planning your next holiday and before you leave make sure you take all the appropriate steps to help manage problems that might come up. If you know what to do when the worst happens, it can save you time and money and prevent your precious holiday from turning into a disaster.

It’s not ideal when you arrive someone and you don’t have a shuttle service to get you to your accommodation destination, Airport Shuttle can help you out with their reliable, quick airport shuttle service! Plus they can drive you to 808 Cartwright, an affordable, luxurious self-catering apartment.

Written By: Christine Romans

What to do in Cape Town this weekend (31st October – 2nd November 2014)

Its Monday yet again, but it’s never too early to plan your weekend. From Murder Mystery on Halloween to bonanzas and fairs, Get ready because it’s going to be a three day amazing fest!

Murder Mystery Dinner and Halloween Party at Shimmy Beach Club – 31^st October
A delicious four course supper and a fun fancy dress party a waits at the swanky Shimmy Beach Club, it will be an evening of murder and intrigue this Halloween! Tuck into the eateries new summer menu while the professional performers will interact with the audience (YOU!) or skip the formal dining event and get straight to the bone-chilling house beats played by resident DJs. This blood curdling event also offers an exclusive VIP party, views of the stunning seaside and you could win an amazing “best dressed party goer” prize.

Date: 31 October 2014
Time: 19:00 until late
Venue: Shimmy Beach Club
Price: R150 – R450

Bonnievale Bonanza – 1^st November
Gear up for a day of family-friendly fun runs, bike races and many more festivities at the Breede River Valley. Whether you want to get out of the city for the day or you’re just looking for something exciting to do with the family, the Bonnivale Bonanza is just for you! The festival celebrates its 20^th birthday this year and is kicking off with some adrenaline pumping activities, here’s what to expect: A celebrity chef dinner, SPAR potjiekos competition, a 4X4 adventure, craft stalls, activities for kids, veteran car show, not to mention the Ms. Bonanza pageant and top local music acts take to the stage.

Date: 1 November 2014
Time: 06:00 until late
Venue: Bonnievale High School
Price: FREE – R290

Elgin Food and Gift Fair – 2^nd November
The festive season is coming soon, so stock up on gifts at this quaint, friendly fun-fair in Elgin Valley. This charming affair is going to be filled with a huge array of delicious goodies, amazing home-made Christmas gifts and fun for the entire family. Gather your family and friends and make a day of it, why not stock up on some wrapping paper and Christmas decorations, while you browse through some potential gifts like handmade kitchen décor to 100% natural skin care products! If you bring the kids along their also in for a treat of face painting and pony or tractor rides, so do your shopping early and miss the manic masses.

Date: 2 November 2014
Time: 10:00 – 16:00
Venue: Oneiric Wine Farm
Price: R20

Make sure to start planning right now and prepare to have a bit of well-deserved fun this up and coming weekend, whether it’s fun and games at Shimmy Beach Club or gift shopping with family and friends, its bound to be unforgettable.

Are you looking for affordable, comfortable, self-catering accommodation in Cape Town? Visit 808 Cartwright, its just what you're looking for, not only that, but you can be transported there from Cape Town International Airport in the fast, reliable shuttle service Airport Shuttle! 

What medication to pack while travelling in Africa

Before you start any journey, you always have to pack all the necessary stuff – clothes, toiletries, gadgets and so much more, don’t forget to pack in a little medication, it may sound boring, but it’s an important precaution! Always pack in these medications to help ensure healthy travels on our African continent.

Antimalarials

Malaria claims over 650 000 lives throughout the world each year and in Sub-Saharan Africa a child dies every minute from this disease! In South Africa be cautious of these areas with a high Malaria count; Limpopo, Mpumalanga and north-eastern KwaZulu Natal. So you might want to consider packing these antimalarials when travelling this continent:
- Vibramycin-D (Doxycycline)
- Lariam (mefloquine) 
- Aralen ( chloroquine)

Motion Sickness Tablets

There are many kinds of motion sickness, the most common ones are car sickness, sea sickness and air sickness. Distances in Africa are long and you might have to drive from point A to point B for many hours on a rough, bumpy road and getting sick is the last thing you need. These motion sickness remedies like codeine (Promethazine), Marezine (Cyclizine) and Dramamine (Dimenhydrinate) are available over the counter.

Antiseptics

Travelling in Africa without any antiseptic can be a major health risk, with overcrowded settlements, poor hygiene, bacteria all around and lack of healthcare facilities, the last thing you want to do is leave a cut or wound uncleaned. These antiseptics are a must when travelling:
- Betadine
- Dettol
- Savlon

Oral Rehydration Salts

Lack of clean water, poor sanitation and hygiene have led to an increase of cholera and diarrhea in Africa! It is highly advisable to bring along some oral rehydration salts, they help replace lost electrolytes, sodium, glucose and potassium that people lose when they suffer from cholera or diarrhea (they also help with hangovers after too much local beer).

Laxatives

You might want to taste all the new, different foods in Africa, but your body might not be used to certain foods and it could cause constipation or irritation in your belly. Laxatives are not glamorous, but it’s better to have them and not need them, right? Dulcolax is a common laxative that can be purchased over the counter.

Antifungal Treatment

Fungal infections such as ringworms and meningitis are quite common in West and Northern Africa, to avoid these fungal infections when you're travelling on this continent always carry drugs such as:
- Cruex cream
- Micanazole 
- Amphotericin B 
- Voriconazole

Add these to your travel kit:
- Plasters
- Water purification tablets
- Insect repellents

It is always so much better to have some remedies nearby when you’re travelling just in case you get sick, travelling is all about enjoyment and bringing along some simple medication can bring you complete peace of mind.

Have your travels led you to the Mother City? Give the guys at Airport Shuttle a call they can get you safe and sound to any destination, like the affordable, luxurious 808 Cartwright self-catering accommodation.

Written By: Christine Romans 

How to avoid jet lag

If you’re a traveler you know that it’s important to make the most of your holiday, but if you’re flying across time zones it can take a bit of time for your body to adjust, even up to several days, no one wants to waste their time away with all sorts of unpleasant feelings like fatigue, insomnia, confusion and irritability. Don’t worry if you’re travelling soon here are some effective things you can do to fight jet lag and what to do once it sets in.

Prepare your internal clock

A few days before you get on your flight, gradually shift your eating and sleeping times to match the destination you’re going to. Then more time zones you’re flying across the earlier you’ll have to start.

                                                                       Stay hydrated

Drink plenty of fluids before and on your flight, dehydration is one of the symptoms of jet lag. Always stay away from alcohol and caffeine!

Try to sleep on the plane

This is very important if you’re traveling overnight or flying east to west. Traveling is very tiring and it can drain your body completely, if you can afford it fly business or first class or just get a window seat and a pillow.

Use sleeping pills wisely

A sleeping pill with a short cycle can be useful on overnight flights, make sure you take the dosage correctly though, you don’t want to be groggy when you land.

Eat like you’ve already arrived

Avoid eating the food on the airplane, they’ll serve food based on the time zone you’re leaving. If you’re hungry just snack lightly and eat during what would be meal times at your destination.

Get outside

When you've arrived at your destination spend as much time as you possibly can outside in the sunlight, the exposure will help your body adjust to the new time zone.

Eat light meals

Not only is your sleep cycle adjusting but so is your digestive routine. Large, rich meals will make it harder for your body to adapt, stick to light meals in small portions.

Consider taking Melatonin

This is the hormone your body naturally creates around the time you usually go to bed, so if you take it at the time you want to tell your body to go to bed it can help your internal clock to adjust.

Jet lag can be the main killer of your productivity and enjoyment while traveling; do you really want to spend the first few days of your holiday sleepy and confused with no appetite? Keep these helpful little tips to almost try and “trick” Mother Nature into letting you fly around the world without getting jet lag.

Has the horrible jet lag hit you hard? Rest up at comfortable, affordable, self-catering 808 Cartwright Corner! You can travel there from Cape Town International Airport with Airport Shuttle, contact them for the best, reliable, convenient shuttle service. 

Written By: Christine Romans

The most popular travel myths busted

When we travel it is meant to broaden our mind and enrich the soul, its surprising how most of us travelers believe and do things while travelling that aren't actually necessary. Have a look at these travel myths and consider why they are, in fact, only myths.

Myth 1: Your phone will make the plane crash
Cellphones and other electrical equipment can interfere with the plane’s signals but your cellphone itself will never make the plane crash! The reason you’re asked to switch them off until a certain altitude is because taking off and landing is the most important times for the plane to have a clear signal.

Myth 2: You have to carry a money bag
Despite what you might believe not everyone is out to get the tourist, it’s not absolutely vital for you to carry a money bag especially not a horrible looking moon bag. You’re only a target if you make yourself one.

Myth 3: Jetlag is caused by lack of sleep
Sleeping through your whole flight wont necessarily cure your jetlag, it is actually caused by the massive shift in longitude, when your days and nights are messed with your rhythm is thrown out of balance and this is called jetlag.

Myth 4: Last minute tickets are cheaper
You may think that because the airline wants to book all their tickets out they’ll bring down the price, but this isn't always the case, a lot of times the airline will actually bring up the price because they know many people need tickets.

Myth 5: Street food is unsafe
Do you see all the ingredients that go into your food in a restaurant? No, but you do see all the ingredients that go into street food. Many people would rather eat at a restaurant in a foreign country than eat their street food, but chances are if its deep fried anything unhealthy will get burnt to death before you put it in your mouth.

Myth 6: The air on a plane makes you sick
It’s true that the air on a plane is recycled, but that does not mean you’ll get sick, the reason you sometimes have a cough after a flight is because the air is so dry that high up that it dries the mucus membranes in your nose and that stuff protects you from germs!

We've all heard of these myths and how many of us have missed out on a travel adventure because of the fear caused by these silly urban legends, luckily for you these myths have been debunked so you can go about enjoying your travels without any worries.

Airport Shuttle in Cape Town can assist you in a ride to and from Cape Town International Airport, their services are quick, reliable and they can transport you to a great self-catering accommodation like 808 Cartwright in the amazing city centre.  

Written By: Christine Romans

First-time flyer tips

So you've booked your flight, you’re all excited to go on your trip whether it’s for a holiday or to visit some good friends, but there’s one problem you haven’t flown in years or worse you've never been on a flight before. You have no clue what to do, how to check in for your flight, get through security or get to your gate… but never fear there are some easy, helpful tips to get you through your flyer experience safe and sound.

~ Prepare for your trip:
If this is your first time flying, its best to be prepared before you even leave for the airport. Restrict what you choose to pack into your suitcase, I mean do you really need that huge tub of hair gel taking up weight and space in your bag? And it’s just common sense that you can’t bring prohibited items with you like firearms and dangerous chemicals.

~ Check or carry your bag:
There are many pros and cons to whether you should check your bags in or to carry your bags into the cabin. Sometimes it is better to carry your bags because your bags will never get lost and lost luggage can be such a drag, plus you always know your stuff is securely with you at all times.
In other cases it’s better to check-in your bags because there are always strict baggage limits that you can take into the cabin with you, so if you’re a heavy packer it’s a lot better to just check your luggage in so you don’t have to fight everyone on-board for overhead bin space.

~ Confirming you flight:
It’s always a good idea to check with your airline a day before your departure, another thing to note is that it’s a good idea to arrive at least two hours before your flight, you never know how long the lines will be when you arrive. If you live in Cape Town and the surrounding areas, Airport Shuttle is the cheapest, most reliable public transport to get to and from Cape Town International Airport, this way you don’t have to be frustrated by expensive airport parking.

~ Getting through airport security:
When you've got your boarding pass, its then time to proceed to airport security, usually there will be easy signs to see to guide you to the correct gate, to avoid delaying everyone waiting behind you, you should be prepared when entering the airport security checkpoint: 

• Make sure you have no sharp objects like scissors or nail files on you, they should be checked into your bags.
• Be ready to remove you shoes, belt, watch or anything that could contain metal.
• If you have a laptop with you remove it from its case or bag and place it in a separate bin.
• Keep your airport ID and boarding pass available in case you have to show any officials.

~ The boarding process:
Once you've made it past the security checkpoint you can then proceed to the boarding area, usually boarding happens at least 30 minutes before the departure, so make sure you are on time. As you move along you will pass an airline gate agent and they will take your boarding pass (sometimes they ask for your ID) its then time to get on the plane, find your seat, fasten your seatbelt and get ready for your flight, you have officially made it through!

Always keep in mind that all airports are different, so the layout of the terminals and gates and the general amount of airport services may be different. To get through your first time flight smoothly, just make sure to keep these tips in mind and you’ll be on your way to fly those friendly skies.

You've just arrived in Cape Town and you need comfortable, affordable accommodation in a convenient area, 808 Cartwright is the ideal place, make sure to book now.

Written By: Christine Romans

What to do in Cape Town this weekend (17th – 19th October)

Are you ready for the gorgeous Mother City this weekend and the never-ending list of exciting things to do? There are just so many amazing things to do in our hometown, from after-work activities to soaking up some rays of Cape Town sunshine; it’s time to plan the weekend.

After-work drinks and live music at Dutch Haven – 17^th October

Stop by this authentic Holland-style restaurant after a busy Friday at work for some tasty bites to eat, a few drinks and live music. This Netherlands inspired bistro offers a variety of amazing eats, bite into some bitterballen (round croquettes), crumbed mushrooms with “boerensauce” or maybe a delicious Dutch mezze platter which includes cheese, gypsy ham, olives and French baguette. This family-friendly eatery is cheerful and warm, so sit down, listen to the live music sung by gifted students from the nearby performing arts school, while the kiddies are distracted in the play area and enjoy your Friday evening.

Date: 17 October 2014
Time: 16:00 until late
Venue: Dutch Haven Bistro
Price: Variable

The Baxter Theatre Dance Festival – 18^th October

This yearly boogie gala has something for everyone, from ballet pirouettes to hip hop moves its time to celebrate a decade of dance. Bring your family and friends along with you to enjoy the variety of different young and emerging to dancers, choreographers and dance companies to showcase their skills for you. The lineup is jam packed so make sure you get your tickets now!
 
Date: 18 October 2014
Time: 20:00 – 22:30
Venue: Baxter Theatre
Price: R30 – R100

Robertson Wine on The River – 19^th October
Finish off your weekend with some gourmet food, wine, boat cruises, live music and so much more on the beautiful banks of the Breede River. This fun extravaganza in the fresh air is the perfect way to celebrate the warmer weather with family and friends, while sampling the fruits of the valley and relaxing to the tunes of live jazz and blues.

Date: 19 October 2014
Time: 11:00 – 20:00
Venue: Goudmyn Farm
Price: FREE – R250

Luckily for you, there’s a lot of opportunities to be out and about this weekend in Cape Town with a variety of fun-filled things for you to do, so get out your diary and start filling it up now!

If you're looking for bright, comfortable self-catering accommodation in Cape Town, 808 Cartwright Corner is the place to be, do you need a shuttle service to get you there from Cape Town International Airport? Just call Airport Shuttle and you're sorted for the weekend.

Written By: Christine Romans

Travel accessories to make your trip easier

Have you ever arrived at the airport after spending hours packing and then suddenly realized you've forgotten all those little things you actually really need. From items that make your trip more comfortable to little accessories that can make your travels so much smoother and stress free, so what should you pack?

-Travel pillows & blankets-

It’s always a good idea to get some rest during your voyage, you don’t want to be grumpy and tired when you arrive at your destination. Do yourself a favour and buy some specially designed travel blankets and pillows to make it easier for you to get some sleep.

-Money belts & wallets-

Don’t go around carrying your money in a huge, obvious bag or pack around your waist, you’re just making yourself a target for thieves, rather use a discreet pack to keep your money and credit cards hidden in.

-Personal organizers-

When you’re busy travelling you want to keep important documents safe and easy to access, consider buying a small organizer pack you can wear comfortably when you’re on the go and also store everything in safely.

-Electrical Converters-

Never, ever forget that if you are travelling to another country they use different electrical outlets. You won’t be able to charge your phone, camera, laptop or any other electrical devices if you don’t have an electrical converter set.

-Luggage locks-

If you don’t want to avoid thieves stealing your belongings a small, but tough luggage lock is a good idea. Before you go out and buy a huge padlock make sure it is lightweight and TSA-friendly.

-Travel towels-

You’re regular bath towel probably takes up about half of your suitcase, rather bring along a small travel towel that will barely take up any space and it’ll dry a lot faster. It’s a great accessory to have no matter where you are travelling to.

-Luggage strap-

In your mind your luggage may look unique, but once you see all the baggage on the conveyor belt it’s hard to get confused, get a brightly coloured or patterned luggage strap and it will make your luggage strand out from the pack, then you can grab your bag and go.

If you’re travelling its great it have a hassle free trip, always plan ahead and think smart because having the right accessories will ensure you’re prepared and can make your journey an amazing experience.

Enjoy a well-organised holiday and give Airport Shuttle a call, they can shuttle you to and from Cape Town International Airport and make sure your ride is convenient and quick. Perhaps add 808 Cartwright to your list and you can also experience an amazing, comfy accommodation in the ideal area. 

Written by: Christine Romans

What to do in Cape Town this weekend (10th – 12th October)

It goes without saying that creating special memories every weekend is a big part of life, this weekend Cape Town has an interesting array of fun family activities for you and your loved ones to enjoy. Take a look at some of the amazing things to do on our gorgeous shores.

The Shnit International Short Film Festival – 10^th October

Check out this mini-movie marathon to catch the best South African made masterpieces! The Shnit International Short Film Festival has returned to take over movie screens across Cape Town; venues will vary from The Labia theatre, Pulp Cinema, Cinemuse and even more viewing spaces. Fans and newbies can enjoy the generally weird and impressive programme that is said to be the biggest and most important short films on the planet.

Date: 10 October 2014
Time: 20:00 – 22:00
Venue: Various
Price: R40 – R180

Western Province vs Sharks Currie Cup Rugby Match – 11^th October
Bring your whole family along and watch our Cape Town boys go head to head with KwaZulu Natal’s guys in black and white, they’ll lock heads with the third place sharks this Saturday to see if they can maintain their first place ranking. It’s obvious that the Sharks will have to bring their all if they plan on overcoming our talented Cape Town team and get their fins on the ABSA Currie Cup trophy. Tickets are also available at Ticketpros.co.za

Date: 11 October 2014
Time: 17:05 – 19:05
Venue: Newlands Stadium
Price: R35 – R95

Seal Snorkeling Sunday Special with Animal Ocean – 12^th October
It’s the final day of the weekend and it’s time to book this incredible wildlife experience! This Sunday special at Animal Ocean allows you to use one of their amazing GoPro Hero 2 underwater camera for FREE, when you book to go on their seal snorkeling adventure. Once your adventure has started you will be fully kitted with an insulating wetsuit and a sort tutorial on how to use the camera, then plunge into the ocean and instantly be surrounded by the beautiful, elegant seals darting around you, don’t worry their ready for their close-ups!

Date: 12 October 2014
Time: 10:00 – 13:00
Venue: Hout Bay Harbour
Price: R650

This weekend it’s time to grab your shades and sunscreen and gear up for a fun-filled 72 hours of great activities, from short films to diving into the chilly Atlantic Ocean, you’ll enjoy it all this weekend.

Do you need a reliable shuttle service to travel to these amazing events? Contact Airport Shuttle. For a comfy, affordable place to rest your head, call 808 Cartwright, its as simple as that!

Written By: Christine Romans

Choose the right travel luggage

If you've ever shopped for luggage, you should know that it’s not the easiest decision to make. When you have so many different bags to choose from, you need to not only think about whether you should get a bag, pack or suitcase, but also will the baggage fees cost you’re a small fortune, or will your luggage come back to you on the conveyor belt dented and broken.

What are your options?
Backpacks can come in a wide variety; they are the best option for you if you are planning on going camping or hiking. I love these bags, they are comfortable to lug around and fit conveniently on your back.
Duffel bags have become modernised and can now be used as travelling bags, they can fit nicely in the overhead compartment, but they can strain your body if you carry they for long distances.

Hard of soft bag?
Soft bags are obviously easier to squeeze into the overhead compartment and they can absorb shock much better than the hard sided bags.
Hard sided bags protect fragile items better than soft bags, not only that but hard bags can be ultra-light allowing your to meet the weight requirements without any hassles.

What size bag should you buy?
Remember if you can’t fit your carry-on bag above your head, you will not be able to put it in the overhead bin! So think carefully and try not to bring the biggest bag you can find. Make sure to check your airline for information about what different size requirements they have.

A few other tips:

• Select a bag with a bright colour so you can spot it easily, a black bag is also the favourite colour for bag thieves.
• Make sure the interior of the bag fits your style, if you have a lot of accessories and bits and bobs try get a bag with lots of pouches and belts.
• Test your bag out, walk around with it for a bit and see if the handle is long enough and if its sturdy and comfortable.

Choosing the right luggage for you can prevent some small tragedies, pick the right, sturdy, durable bag for you and you can experience the freedom of travelling without having to stress about your luggage.

Do you need a shuttle service to lug your luggage to and from Cape Town International Airport? Call Airport Shuttle and they can be the service for you. 808 Cartwright also offers a comfy, convenient place to rest your head after a long, tiring journey. 

Written By: Christine Romans

The ten commandments of air travel

We've all experienced horrible things on plane rides; security hassles, annoying passengers, uncomfortable seats and constant headaches, it seems that way too often other passengers don’t have the common knowledge to follow some obvious rules, and so I give you the ten commandments of air travel:

                       I.    Thou shall arrive early to the airport
Arrive early to avoid getting hurried or holding someone up; you don’t want to start off your holiday with a panic attack.

                       II.    Thou shall not be a queue jumper
What is the point of pushing and shoving your way to the front of the line? The plane will not leave without you!

                       III.    Thou shall obey the hand-luggage rule
You can only store one bag in the overhead compartment, there is only so much space on board, you are flying not moving house.

                       IV.    Thou shall not fight the art rest war
There are no winners in this war, work out a compromise; share the space and don’t hog it the whole time.

                        V.    Thou shall not treat the flight attendants as thou personal slave
They work really hard to make your flight as enjoyable as possible, treat them with respect and don’t give them a hard time.

                        VI.    Thou shall be considerate in your reclining
Think before you push you seat back, check how much space the person behind you has before you wedge it down for 12 hours.

                       VII.    Thou shall not bring stinky food onto the plane
Yes you are hungry, but try to avoid bringing food that will stink up the cabin for the entire flight.

   III.    Thou shall not hog the bathroom

             Keep it quick; don’t do your make-up or hair in the mirror while seven people are waiting in the queue outside.

                        IX.    Thou shall lower the blind
When you have the window seat and you can see people are trying to sleep, lower the blind so they don’t get the blinding sun directly in the eyes.

    X.    Thou shall relax and enjoy oneself

             Face it there is no point in complaining and finding fault with everything, just try to relax and enjoy the flight, your holiday will start soon.

            

            If you ever need a fast, reliable shuttle service to take you to or from Cape Town International Airport, Airport Shuttle is the one to choose for a comfortable journey and friendly drivers.

           Written By: Christine Romans