Always remember these Safety Tips when travelling to South Africa

Safety is an important issue throughout the world, you need to know what to do and what not to do. Fortunately the Tourism Safety Task Group of South Africa has compiled the following helpful tips for tourists and migrants who come to the country…

At a hotel:
Never leave your luggage unattended
Store all your valuables in the hotels safety deposit box
Keep your room locked at all times, whether you are inside or not
Always check who is at the door before you open it
Leave your room keys at the reception desk when leaving the hotel

In the street:
Avoid over-the-top displays of expensive jewelry, cameras and other valuables
NEVER carry around large sums of money around (a better option is to use URCard)
Steer clear of dark, isolated areas at night
It is better to travel around with a group of people and stick to well-lit, busy streets
Plan out your route beforehand so you know where you are going
A police officer or traffic officer will be glad to help if you are lost
If you ever need to call a taxi, your hotel or a tourism information office can help you out

In a car:
Plan your route in advance
Keep your car doors locked and wind the windows up if you are in an unsafe area
Lock all your valuable items in the boot of the car
At night, always park in a well-lit area
NEVER pick up strangers
If you are in doubt about the safety of an area, phone a police station for advice

In general it would be advisable to always carry a reliable map with you. Plus you should keep a certified copy of passports and other important documentation, like flight tickets in a safe place such as a bank or the hotel’s safety deposit box.

Always leave your valuables at home. There is a chance your luggage may be opened and your valuables stolen when you are at the check out area.

- Do not wear expensive jewelry
- Never allow yourself to be separated from your hand luggage
- Always remember that laptops, phones and handbags are targeted items
- Do not allow yourself to be distracted by one person while another runs off with your possessions

South Africa is not the only country where the above list applies; it applies to majority of destinations around the world. Tourists are often caught up in unpleasant situations because they are not vigilant and wise because they are “on holiday” and in a carefree mood.

 Do you need a reliable shuttle service to and from Cape Town International Airport? Give Airport Shuttle a call today!

The 10 Commandments of Travelling by Air

There are probably a range of horrifying things you’ve experienced on a plane from security checks gone wrong to irritating passengers and uncomfortable seats.

It seems like a lot of people do not know the basics and common knowledge of how to follow simple rules when it comes to air travel.

Here are the 10 commandments that you should always remember:

1.  Thou shall always arrive at the airport early

Be sure to get to the airport early to avoid getting hurried or holding other people up, you don’t want to start off your trip by being super stressed and in a rush.

2. Thou shall not jump the queue

The plane will never leave without you, so do not push and shove your way to the front of the line!

3. Thou shall follow the hand luggage rule

Always obey the rule; you can only have one bag in the overhead compartment! Remember that you are flying somewhere not moving house.

4. Thou shall not fight for the armrest

In the war, for the armrest, there are no winners, so it’s best to work out a compromise so you both can share the arm rest without one person hogging it the whole time.

5. Thou shall remember that flight attendants are not slaves

The flight attendants work really hard to make you feel comfortable, so treat them with the respect they deserve and never give them a hard time!

6. Thou shall be a considerate recliner

Think before you push your seat back! Always check if there is enough space for the person behind you before you recline it back for the entire flight.

7. Thou shall not bring smelly food on the plane

Try your best not to bring any stinky food on-board with you such as eggs or fish. Also keep in mind that some food will cause you to make the smell, like garlic, cabbage, etc.

8. Thou shall not hog the bathroom

Keep it quick in the bathroom; do not spend 30 minutes in there redoing your hair while other people are waiting in the queue outside.

9. 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.

10. Thou shall relax and have fun

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.

Looking for fast, reliable transportation to and from the airport? Contact Airport Shuttle in Cape Town or Durban and be sure to book your ride online with the easy online booking system www.asct.co.za | www.asdbn.co.za

5 of the best first-class seats that are better than your house!

Imagine if you could get on a flight and not have to deal with the constant neck aches, unsatisfying meals, and annoying passengers. 

Your flight would be relaxing and luxurious, just like any fancy hotel!

Here are five of the best first-class seats that are possibly better than your own house!

Emirates Airline 

The Emirates first-class suites are packed with luxurious features; a fully stocked minibar, your own recliner, a full-length vanity mirror and let’s not forget your own personal shower and complimentary pajamas!

Etihad Airways

Instead of a normal airline seat, Etihad Airline more of an apartment in the sky! A bedroom, private shower and living area is what you'll get, not to mention your own butler and private chef.

Cathay Pacific Airways

As soon as you enter the cabin you get full access to your own leather recliner and an LCD touch screen that controls lights and the position of your chair. You also get to sink your teeth into a delicious three-course meal and complimentary wine.

Lufthansa Airways

Enjoy the elegance and stylish seats with Lufthansa, along with plenty of fine dining like caviar and champagne and plenty of entertainment options, you also have a separate bed in addition to your seat!

Singapore Airlines

This amazing airline has long been known as the best airline in the world! Fully enclosed private suites, LCD entertainment systems and comfy pajamas along with an actual bed instead of converted seat beds are just some of the luxuries offered.

Sitting in a long, uncomfortable flight can be a huge pain, if you choose to step onto one of these luxurious and lavish airlines you’ll definitely be leaving all your stress behind, you probably won’t ever want to leave!

For transport to and from the airport, whether in Cape Town or Durban, be sure to get in touch with Airport Shuttle and they can make your travels just as luxurious as your flight!

Sleep peacefully on your next Flight with these 3 Tips

Travelling can be a stressful task, whether you are flying a short distance or flying to the other side of the world, it’s stressful all the same!

Short trips seem to be a little easier as they are over before you know it; however, the long flights seem to last for an eternity! Here are 3 important tips on how to get some proper sleep on those long journeys.

Plan your Trip to the Tee! 

When planning, it is smarter to choose the non-stop flight. There is nothing worse than getting comfortable and drifting off to sleep and being interrupted only to change planes. However if your flight plan doesn't have a non-stop flight option, try choosing an option with the longest single leg as this will give you ample resting time and you’ll have more uninterrupted time to snooze.

Dress Comfortably!

Always remember that you are not entering a beauty pageant, you are about to sit in a seat for a lengthy period and there is nothing worse than being in clothes you can’t truly relax in. In your carry on it is a good idea to pack a pair of comfortable pajama bottoms and some woolly socks. When the plane has reached its cruising point and you are able to get up and walk around you should use this opportunity to climb into something a little more comfortable.

Prepare your body!

Keep hydrated during the day so you can avoid eating and drinking on the plane and adding unnecessary bathroom breaks. Most people will use sleeping pills and other prescription sleeping aids to help them get some rest; it’s recommended that you consult a medical professional before jumping to these extremes. Avoid caffeine and sugar; rather drink sips of water but not too much as you’ll be running to the restroom every hour.

If none of these tips help and you still find you are struggling to sleep, you can always rest. Try closing your eyes with some music on and lay back, more often than not you’ll land up getting some sleep in.

For comfortable and on-time transportation to and from the Airport. Book your airport shuttle with Airport Shuttle in Cape Town or Durban today!

6 Winter Holiday Travel Tips for your Next Trip!

Travelling is stressful, especially so during the winter season when the airports are busy and the temperatures have dropped. The roads are busy and rain and storms can delay your journey.

Unfortunately, the bad weather doesn’t just disappear if you wish hard enough; you have to do things differently in order to smooth your trip along.

Here are 6 helpful ways to use on your next winter trip:

Always check your flight – If your flight is coming from a city with bad winter weather then it can hold up your flight, don’t just assume that if you’re flying from a sunny destination to another that everything will be smooth sailing. Always check your aircraft's journey, no matter where you’re going.

Never drive in a storm – Keep an eye on the local weather forecast. If you’re planning on driving around or travelling to your next destination rather consider not hitting the road if there is a possibility that you’ll drive straight into a storm.

Rebook for free – A lot of airlines will actually track the weather and rearrange schedules to avoid bad winter weather, especially if it is bad enough that it can become dangerous for flight. Certain airlines will often allow customers to rebook for free if this happens.

Follow on social media – It is convenient to follow your airline as well as the specific airport on their social media pages so you can get the fastest news on the weather reports as well as cancellations and updates.

Charge your devices – If your flight is delayed there will probably be a crowd of people at the electrical outlets. Always have a car charger or a power bank at the ready for your electrical devices so you don’t have to share with the rest of the airport while you wait.

Have snacks prepared – Always stock up on snacks and drinks before you head to the airport as they’ll keep you going strong without spending all your holiday cash at the stores at the airport. 

Avoid drinking before you fly, rather drink water and snack on dried fruits and nuts. Read our blog on what you should NEVER eat before flying.

As much as you try, the bad winter weather won’t just go away! You need to plan and prepare yourself so you can reach your destination in peace and have a wonderful holiday!

Airport Shuttle can get you to and from the airport comfortably and on time! Book and pay for your shuttle today with the easy online booking system or contact Airport Shuttle directly if you would prefer person to person contact.

Enjoy a Safe Journey with Airport Shuttle!

A lot of airport transfer companies in Cape Town these days look like they offer professional, reliable services, however many are just out to scam you out of your money and potentially put your life at risk!

Always ensure that you have a safe journey in Cape Town by booking for an airport Transfer Company that you can trust. Airport Shuttle in Cape Town offers clients amazing airport transfer services. Whether you are in Cape Town for business or pleasure, Airport Shuttle will get you where you need to be safely, discreetly and comfortably!

Here are some of the most important reasons why our previous clients have booked their airport transfer with Airport Shuttle in Cape Town…

1. What other airport transfer company do you know in Cape Town that offers their services 24/7, 365 days of the year? Simply book your airport transfer ANYTIME and we will be there to assist you!

2. Every single driver that works for Airport Shuttle is professional at all times, fully-licensed and completely trustworthy.

3. Are you worried about driving in an unreliable vehicle? All the airport transfer vehicles available from Airport Shuttle in Cape Town are sleek, safe, unbranded and discreet.

4. Do not worry about your driver stopping and picking up different passengers along with way – all our airport transfers are booked on a private, point-to-point basis!

If you are looking for an easy to use, quick way to book your airport transfer, simply visit www.asct.co.za and book and pay for your shuttle with the easy online booking system.

Book with Airport Shuttle, sit back and relax and enjoy the ride!

Luggage Tampering & Theft at Airports – Here’s how to reduce the risk of becoming a victim!

Theft at the airports in South Africa is a major problem that needs a solution. It may surprise some people, even frequent travellers to know that thousands of bags get tampered with on a regular basis.

One of the most popular items that are stolen by thieves in the airport is expensive perfume. So, if you’re into high-end perfume – do not pack it into your check-in luggage when you’re travelling!

Airport Shuttle in Cape Town and Durban offers a reliable, comfortable and affordable shuttle service! Make a booking with the easy online booking system www.asct.co.za | call +27 (0)21 551 8785 or +27 (0)82 951 3646 | email info@asct.co.za

Here are some simple ways you can reduce the risk of becoming the next victim of luggage theft and loss…

1. Try your best never to check your luggage – If possible rather carry on one bag and you won’t have to lug around unnecessary things that can get stolen or lost.

2. Do not place your valuable items in your checked luggage – Not only can your valuable items get stolen, but they can also get damaged!

3. Ship valuable items to your destination – If you cannot or refuse to carry your valuable items in your luggage then consider shipping them. This is especially important during the holiday season where luggage is more likely to contain gifts.

4. Do not use expensive luggage – Keep in mind that thieves will most likely target luggage that is expensive over inexpensive luggage.

5. Always have proper identification on your luggage – This will not necessarily stop theft, but should your luggage get lost it will increase the chances of your baggage getting returned to you.

6. Does your luggage stand out? – Bright red bag may attract a potential thief, however it can help you instantly identify that it is yours.

7. Lock your checked luggage – As potential thief is less likely to attempt to steal or tamper with a piece of luggage that has been secured with a lock!

Luggage theft and tampering is a big problem – Travellers as well as the airlines need to face the problem together to find a possible solution!