7 holiday travel hacks you should know!

Holiday travel is the worst. And even though it will always be a hassle, there often is a better way.

Here are seven essential travel hacks that’ll help you get to where you’re going in one piece!

Book your tickets incognito

Many airline and travel websites use cookies to track how many times you’ve visited and then they alter the prices. Use Google Chrome Incognito to make sure you’ll be safe to book your tickets with no jacked up prices.

Don’t get stuck in a no-window seat

Yes, the airline will let you pick your seat, but SeatGuru takes it to the next level. Before you book, type I your airline and flight number and you’ll be able to see the layout of the exact plane you’ll be flying on. Here you can choose your ideal seat.

Wrap wisely

Did you know airport security can open your gift-wrapped packages? In other words, do not travel with wrapped presents. Instead, either ship your gifts to your destination or pack them unwrapped.

Endless battery life

Everyone in the whole darn airport will be looking for a charging station. Fortunately those big TVs that are at just about every gate have USB ports. All you have to do is sneakily plug your phone into one.

Bring yourself some libations

When you’re sitting on the plane listening to that screaming baby, you’re gonna need a drink! This is where the Carry-on Cocktail Kit comes in. This adorable little kit comes with a mini bottle of alcohol, the perfect mix-ins and a little spoon.

The 8 most amazing places to travel to in February

Maybe you didn’t get a chance to get away in the December holidays and maybe you’re fed up with being stuck in one place. Maybe you just need an adventure!

Here are 8 of the most amazing destinations to go to this February…

Captiva & Sanibel Islands – Florida

These two islands are both located on Florida’s Gulf Coast and they’re perfect if you want a tropical getaway without going to the Caribbean. Sanibel is more rustic with everyone riding around on bikes, and Captiva is more upscale with beautiful waterfront houses.

New Zealand

The urban city of Auckland, which is known for its craft beer, fashion and delicious food, deserves a visit before you head to Wellington. There you will find volcanic plateaus, rolling farmlands and gorgeous beaches.

Stowe – Vermont

Stowe has a wide appeal, whether you’re a seasoned skier or a total newbie. This folksy downtown is filled with lively ski-bars, awesome restaurants and it’s the home to the Ben & Jerry’s factory.

Costa Rica

February is the dry season in Costa Rica, which makes it the perfect time to explore the lush rain forests. Start by hitting up the natural hot springs and zip line through the forest, then head about three hours west and spend some time in the beautiful beach town, Tamarindo.

Santa Fe – New Mexico

You’ll find few tourists, but plenty of charm in Santa Fe in February. Most days you can spend your time skiing, visiting art galleries and antiquing. Don’t miss the authentic New Mexican, off-the-beaten-path La Choza, where you can chow down on frito pie and green chile stew!

Marrakech – Morocco

Despite the blistering heat in Marrakech, there are fewer crowds in February. Explore Arabic-style gardens, local art galleries and Moorish culture. But do bring a jacket – temps can drop quite low at night.

Mendoza – Argentina

Wine lovers prepare, Argentina’s equivalent of Napa Valley is Mendoza, and it comes alive in February. Taste the fantastic Malbec, go horseback riding through the hills and watch the locals dance in the city’s outdoor plazas.

St John

Do you just want to sit on the beach and relax? St. John is possible the most accessible and affordable Caribbean island. Long white beaches and clear blue waters, it’s relaxing just thinking about it.

Pack your bags, whether you’re a beach bum, an adventurer or a snow bunny. There are eight great places to go this February.

Visiting Cape Town this February? Airport Shuttle can get you to or from Cape Town International Airport quickly and comfortably!

10 Ways to beat the heat in Cape Town

Cape Town is a top summer destination and with good reason. Sultry summer days are always going to attract people to beaches and rooftop bars across the city. but what about when you want to take a day and just cool off and escape the heat?

Don’t stress, here are the top 10 ways to beat the heat in the Mother City.

1. Stay hydrated by drinking lots of water. It’s best to try drink at least 2 litres a day plus more!

2. If you are going to be in the sun, always wear sunblock with a high SPF, anything over 50 is good.

3. Wear a hat if you’re going to be outdoors.

4. Wear loose, cool clothing and avoid dark colours.

5. Avoid drinking a lot of alcohol and caffeine as both encourage dehydration.

6. Stay in the shade of visit public buildings with air conditioning.

7. Eat lighter meals like salads and fruits as they will keep you cooler.

8. If you’re going to go for a hike, try going as early as possible to get the morning air and take lots of water with you. Always keep emergency numbers at hand.

9. If you want to go to the beach, try to avoid going between the hours of 11:00am and 3:30pm. The sun only sets at about 8:15pm, so you have lots of time in the evening to go.

10. Try one of the activities below to beat the heat and still have a great time…

- Hit The Ice Station at Grand West for some ice skating
- Try a few scoops of ice cream. Try Sinful Ice Cream Emporium, The Creamery, Ice Dream, etc.
- Go indoors for a show at the Theatre on the Bay, The Fugard, Playhouse, etc.
- Take a dip in a swimming pool. Sea Point Pavilion Swimming Pool, Camps Bay Tidal Pool, etc.
- Stroll through the museums of Cape Town
- Visit a waterpark. The Blue Rock Cable Waterski or The Water Slides in Muizenberg
- Go snorkeling and chill with a seal
- Enjoy ice cold beer tasting at Boston, Jack Black’s or Mitchell’s
- Read a book in a shady spot at Kirstenbosch Gardens
- Tour a cool distillery in Stellenbosch

Coming to Cape Town? Make sure you plan your trip a head of time and book in at 808 CartwrightCorner.