The 5 Best Holiday Travel Hacks!

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

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

Book your tickets incognito
any 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 in 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 and then wrap them when you arrive.

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 too!

Just arrived at the Airport and need a shuttle service to your accommodation? Contact Airport Shuttle today and we can get you to or from Cape Town International Airport comfortably and safely!

The 6 Best Travel Hacks We Know

Use these 6 handy hacks brought to you by Airport Shuttle to take some of the stress out of jet-setting.

Goodbye Cookies

Did you know that your flight will get more expensive with every window refresh? In order to beat this all your need to do is clear your cookies. If you're using Google Chrome - click the three little dots in the top right corner - go down to more tools - click on Clear browsing data.

One-Way Flights

It is not always the most affordable option to buy a round-trip. Look out for cheap one-way flights and hidden specials.

Do the Travel Math

We've seen a lot of posts about certain days of the week which are cheaper, but apparently they're all false. However, there is a special formula - buy your ticket 54 days before the day you want to leave and that will be the cheapest flight.

Use Google Maps
When you have landed and notice you have access to Wi-Fi, load Google Maps. After you've marked off your points of interest, turn off your data. As you move around, the GPS will still track your movement!

A Carry-On for Comfort

Sitting in a plane for 12 hours can be painful. Make sure you bring your comfy clothing like slippers and a poncho that can also be a blanket for later. 

Use the Left Line

Nine out of every ten people are right-handed, which means most of our brains instinctively tell us to turn right. Go against the grain: Choose the leftmost line at the airline check-in. It’s almost always quicker.

Don't know the Foreign Language? Use these Tips!

Travelling is one of the greatest experiences in the world, but it can be scary especially if you're going to a country where you don't know the language. Luckily, there are a few ways to prepare for such trips so you don’t have a panic attack in the middle of a Sunday food market in Japan.

LEARN THE BASICS

If is impossible to be fluent in French in one month, so just learn a few helpful words and phrases. The most popular ones being - "Please", "Thank You" and "Do you speak English"?

DOWNLOAD A TRANSLATION APP

What would we do without technology, well we'd have to lug around a silly dictionary!Apps like Google Translate might make it obvious you’re using a translator, but it'll help out and get the job done.

THE POWER OF POINTING

At maps, at places on your phone at pictures - whatever you want! Pointing or gesturing is often easier than trying to understand what someone is saying. However, make sure to do your research before hand because some gestures may mean something offensive in a different country.

PLAN, PLAN, PLAN

If you're someone who is uncomfortable in a place you've never been before, then it is best to plan out your trip before you leave home. 

Are you looking for a reliable, affordable Shuttle service in Cape Town or Durban? Contact Airport Shuttle today and we can get you where you need to be comfortably and on time!

7 ways you’re paying too much for your travels

It happens to all of us when we decide to go on holiday - we end up spending way too much then we need to! 

So, how can we stop spending so much money on traveling? Here is a helpful list of ways to save some serious cash...

1. You always travel on the weekend

It is more convenient to travel over the weekend, but it is also very expensive. Try to make a plan to fly mid-week and you'll see some huge savings.

2. You use your credit card to withdraw money

Using your everyday credit card to withdraw money is not the best option, because foreign transactions and fees can cost you an arm and a leg. It's best to take cash with you and use your credit card as a backup.

3. You exchange currency at the airport

It's best to take cash with you when you travel, but avoid exchanging your money at the airport as you probably won't get the best exchange rate. 

4. You eat out for every meal
Going to restaurants to eat breakfast, lunch and supper every day can be fun, but it will cost you a small fortune! Try to book accommodation that includes breakfast and find a cheap shop where you can buy fruits, snacks and drinks. 

5. You travel during the high season

Yes, we know, it’s really tempting to book a holiday during the summer. The weather is lovely and it feels like everyone else is jetting off somewhere exotic. However, you could save loads by travelling off-peak. 

6. You buy food at the airport or on the plane

Food at the airport can be really expensive. Check out our tasty pre-flight and in-flight meal ideas that you can prepare at home for a fraction of the cost of airline prices.

7. You hire a car at the airport

Hiring a car at the airport can cost you a small fortune. By booking it all before you go, you can pay significantly less for the hire of the vehicle. Book a shuttle with Airport Shuttle in Cape Town, Durban or Gauteng and it’ll save you cash for your trip!

5 Reasons why you should Travel the World

We all have that one friend on Facebook that occasionally pops up offering up an opportunity for us to live vicariously through their experiences. They post up photos of sunsets in highly desirable locations on the other side of the world and at first it amuses, then promotes wanderlust, we have a little daydream about our next vacation and then the jealousy sinks in.

It’s a big decision. Even leaving your comfort zone for a brief 20 minute jog once a week is a struggle for some and in those cases a life shifting experience like travelling may be the key to breaking that way of thinking, the way that promotes retreating, the withdrawal back to unhealthy routines. This leads us on to reason number one:

1. SAY GOODBYE TO YOUR COMFORT ZONE

By not taking risks, you never really discover your true self. It’s only ever about doing what is safe and easy but how will you ever know what really makes you tick if you’ve never tried it. Travel will push you into a flurry of seemingly uncomfortable situations like forcing you to meet new people with completely different lifestyles and cultures or navigating your way around a mountain where no one speaks your native language etc.

2. TIME SLOWS DOWN

A regular routine builds strong neurological connections that over time allow for us to automate activities almost seamlessly. Think about that journey to work where not a thought is spared on the direction, forced into the present only by an obstruction. “I’ve been working here 10 years and I don’t know where the time has gone” – that’s not for me. An ever changing horizon continually breathes new experiences and within those we truly live in the moment, we are gifted with the present.

3. GAIN IMPORTANT PERSPECTIVES

With nothing but your backpack filled with essentials you venture out into new cultures without access to the usual facilities and material objects you might usually take for granted. Many people live in the type of poverty that is truly unfathomable until you experience it first-hand. A culture shock can only positively affect you, it compels you to give back, to help out and to appreciate in innumerable ways the lifestyle upon return.

4. WE ARE NOT GUARANTEED OLD AGE

Travelling is often postponed with the intentions of ‘becoming a responsible adult’ or ‘building up a real life’ in the meantime. Some even say they are savouring the opportunity for retirement. Without injecting too much personal opinion, that’s just the views of society’s norm being expressed by those who are already deeply conforming. It is your choice to live how you wish.

5. AND THIS…

“Traveling – it leaves you speechless, then turns you into a storyteller.” – Ibn Battuta

Start your journey right now! Contact Airport Shuttle in Cape Town or Durban, book your shuttle online and let us get you where you need to be comfortably and on time!

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!

Packing hacks according to what’s in your bag

Packing everything for your next trip can be a bit scary – what should you take? What shouldn’t you take? However the destination and type of holiday makes it easier to plan and determine the contents to take with. Master the art of packing with these helpful packing hacks!

Beach Bum
All your necessities can be narrowed down to good swimwear, high-quality sunscreen, slip slops, sunglasses, a hat, towels and a waterproof camera. Pack in some baby powder to get rid of sand easily and don’t forget Ziploc bags to protect your valuables.

Camping Enthusiast
Planning to spend a long weekend in the wilderness? Make sure you take the right equipment with you, such as a decent tent and sleeping bag. Enjoy easy, convenient breakfasts amongst the trees with sachets of instant coffee and always keep your eggs in a plastic bottle. Did you know that you can make lamps out of jars by placing candles inside, or use deodorant as an insect repellent? Give it a try!

Urban Explorer
Always avoid anything heavy or restricting, so wear your camera around your neck and keep all your valuables, gadgets and tickets in a small bag. A good way to stay hydrated is to buy a refillable water bottle and always keep it with you.

Happy Hiker
Firstly, consider lining your backpack with bin liners to make it waterproof. You can also reduce the weight of your bag by sticking to dehydrated food and placing anything heavy such as water bottles on top. All your necessary clothing should include; robust footwear, a good jacket and make sure you have plenty of pockets.

Pro Traveler
If you are planning a backpacking trip, it can be difficult to pack your whole life into one suitcase, but it is possible! Write a list of all the necessities you won’t be able to live without, and with some simple tricks you can fit everything in. Save space by rolling your clothes, pack all your socks into your shoes and keep a roll of duct tape on hand – it can be used for literally anything.

Whether you’re a beach bum or an urban explorer, these packing hacks will have you covered!

Cant find accommodation in Cape Town? 808 Cartwright Corner is the perfect self-catering apartment, with amazing views of the Mother City! Contact us today and book your stay!

How to not get ripped off when you’re travelling

There’s no quicker way to ruin a holiday or travel adventure than by getting ripped off. It seriously sucks so next time keep these tips in mind…

Beware of the lonely ATM – Stick to a cash machine at a bank, airport, hotel or other public area. To don’t want to fall prey to an ATM scam.

Inform your bank – Before you leave, make sure you call your bank and let them know your dates and destinations.

Make copies of credit cards – Always make a copy of the front and back of all your bank and credit cards that you are taking with you, including the number to phone if they are lost or stolen.

Use the hotel room safe – Laptops, passport, backup credit cards and other important information should be locked up when you’re out and about.

Pickpockets aren’t just in crowds – Everyone knows you should always keep your money close in a crowd. But it’s also not a good idea to hand your bag on your chair in a restaurant or use your phone obviously in a taxi.

Stay organised – This one may seem weird, isn’t a holiday the time to relax? Well, 10 minutes a day spent keeping track of your bank cards, receipts and passports is well worth the hassle.

Don’t lose your vacation mojo by getting ripped off, stick to these helpful tips and you’ll have complete peace of mind.

808 Cartwright Corner is not only comfortable and conveniently located, but it has beautiful views of Table Mountain and the Mother City.

Book online today, or give us a call if you're looking for the perfect self-catering apartment.