12 Packing Problems only a woman will understand

Sometimes they packing problems that women encounter are just about enough to make you want to stay at home! Yes, going places and travelling the world is great and all, but THE PACKING! WHY!?

1. You feel the urge to pack for every conceivable situation. You’ve never worn that long fancy dress before, but what if you want to go to a really nice dinner? What if some millionaire wants to take you dancing on his yacht? It could happen!

2. You have to squeeze your purse into your carry-on tote so you can actually bring three bags on board.

3. You have to fit all your cosmetics into that little toiletries pouch. Insane. Unrealistic. How are you supposed to live?

4. You can't abide by those ridiculous liquid container size restrictions. What? Do they think there is a bomb inside your moisturizer? The airport security jerks are totally just trying to steal your cosmetics!

5. You realise that you need to do laundry before your pack. But also, you realise that is just not going to happen.

6. You have to figure out how to keep your suitcase from weighing more than 50 pounds. The only thing worse than paying the excess baggage fee is paying the excess baggage fee after unpacking your bag in front of the entire airport, a fistful of underwear in your hand, in a vain attempt to transfer those last 4 pounds to your already stuffed carry-on.

7. You have to pick a different outfit for every day. Stress. And you know deep down that you will never stick to any of the choices you've made.

8. You want to leave room for the extra stuff you plan to buy on your trip, but you're completely unable to do so. You have to fill every available inch of suitcase space or else you're just inviting a fashion disaster to happen while you're on vacation.

9. You try to pick a "packing style" in order to get as much stuff into your bags as possible. Are you a roll packer or a vacuum packer? What if you can't re-vacuum your stuff when you come back? Maybe if you sit on your suitcase for a while, it will magically make room for more things.

10. You know your bag is technically too big to be a carry-on, but you also know that you have gotten away with it in the past. What if today is the day they make you check it? And then, what if they lost it? There you’ll be, stranded in some foreign country, naked and alone!

11. Weather denial. You don't care what the forecast says, it's supposed to be warm where you are going and you are packing accordingly. Stupid weathermen are wrong most of the time anyway. You'll dress for the weather you want, not the weather you have.

12. Wrinkles. So. Many. Wrinkles!

No matter how hard women try, they will always have a tough time packing for a trip!

Need a place to stay if you are travelling to Cape Town? Book in at 808 Cartwright Corner today, for an affordable, self-catering apartment with amazing views of the Mother City.

Cape Town International Airport Guide!

In this guide you will find info about WiFi, lounges, facilities, services and airport hotels. You can also read some of the traveler airport reviews to get a better idea of CapeTown International Airport.

Airport Lounges
If you are an economy class traveler, you can enter these lounges at Cape Town airport either by purchasing a day pass or through a membership program. Visit the individual lounge page for more details (facilities, hours, pass and membership information):

  §  Bidvest Premium Lounge – Location: Domestic Terminal, airside, 4^th floor. Showers are available. Hours: 5am – 8pm (Sun - Fri) 5am – 9pm (Sat). Lounge access: Pay at the door. BOOK ONLINE

  §  Bidvest Premium Lounge – Location: International Terminal, airside, mezzanine, 3^rd level. Showers are available. Hours: 5am – 12am. Lounge access: Pay at the door. BOOK ONLINE

Airport WiFi / Internet
WiFi is available at Cape Town Airport for a fee. The internet provider is “AlwaysOn”.

Airport Hotels
If sleeping at the Cape Town Airport does not appeal to you, there are some great hotels near the airport:

  §  Road Lodge – Located within the airport ground. They do not offer day rooms.

  §  Medindi Manor – 10 minutes to the airport

  §  Little Scotia Guest House

To find a cheap room, there is a list of hotels near Cape Town International Airport on Tripadvisor that can be sorted by price. Book in at 808 Cartwright for a luxurious, affordable self-catering apartment with amazing views.

More Services, Facilities & Things to do

  §  ATMs / Cash Machines – Locations: Domestic Arrivals, Domestic Departures, International Departures.

  §  Baby Care – Baby changing facilities are available in most women’s washrooms

  §  Chapel / Prayer Rooms – While there is nothing advertised, if you ask airport staff members, they will direct you to the room.

  §  Currency Exchange – Locations: Domestic Departures, International Departures, International arrivals.

  §  Food & Drinks – There is a variety of eateries to choose from.

  §  Luggage, Storage & Lockers – Baggage can be stored at Bagport. Location: Ground floor, Parkade 2.

  §  Post Office – Location: Parkade 2, Ground Floor, past the Permit Office and SAPS offices. Hours: 8am – 4:30pm (Thurs – Tues) 8:30am – 4:30pm (Wed)

  §  Showers – Showers are available in the Bidvest Lounges

  §  Smokers Lounge – Location: International Terminal, Airside. Internet access is available here.

Airport Hours
The airport is open 24 hours

Airport Transportation

  §  Car Rentals – Avis, Europcar, First/Sixt, etc.

  §  Public Transportation – MyCiti Bus runs between the airport and Civic Centre.

  §  Shuttle Services – Airport Shuttle can take you to and from Cape Town International Airport at an affordable price.

TIPS

  §  There is a whole Woolworths grocery store on the ground level at which you can buy snacks, in case you get hungry or thirsty after all the shops, kiosks, and restaurants have closed at 10:30 pm.

  §  There is a 'Flybrary' - a lounge with comfortable chairs and shelves of books to read - at International Arrivals. It may close after the last flight gets in around 10:30 pm, though, but it's a good place to leave a book you've read and take a new one to read during the night or your upcoming flight.

  §  After the Mugg & Bean on the restaurant / viewing deck level has closed for the night, you can relocate to the viewing deck itself. Tip: there is a power outlet on a pillar behind the children's playground where you can plug in your phone or computer. The rows of seats are cushioned with no arm rests between them, so you can stretch out fully.

  §  During the night the airport is very quiet but for periodic announcements about security and carry-on allowances. The lights stay on and it's not too cold.

  §  Airport check-ins and restaurants start re-opening at 4:00 am.

Tallinn Airport’s new sleep pods

Tallin Airport is self-proclaimed as the world’s coziest airport and it just got a whole lot cozier with the introduction of the new sleep pods!

Tallinn Airport is the fifth Airport in the world where these Finnish innovative GoSleep Pods are available. The pods have already been welcomed at airports all around the world, providing users with privacy and silence in the midst of busy passenger traffic.

The difference between the Tallinn Airport GoSleep pods and the others around the world is that they are offered the tired passengers free-of-charge!

GoSleep Pod is a specially designed, stylish and sleek chair for tired passengers in need of rest. Tallinn has 5 pods in total. Each one begins as a chair, but transforms into a bed/cocoon as you recline and pull a curtain down over the front. Hand luggage can be stowed safely under the seat, and devices can be charged inside the pod. Not really tired? You might also consider borrowing a book from the airport library to curl up within your cradle. Passengers with return tickets to Tallinn are permitted to take the book with them on vacation, returning it when they fly back through. Cozy, right?

When travelling, we have often had to sleep between flights on plastic benches or on the floor at various airports. This gave rise to the idea of developing a more comfortable alternative for passengers. There are always thousands upon thousands of people at the world’s airports with no chance of getting the restful sleep that they need. GoSleep Pod allows you to work or sleep in your own private and quiet space.

It is worth noting that while Tallinn does technically close at night, travellers have been permitted to sleep in the public area if they have proof of onward travel the next morning. Otherwise, once you pass through security, these sleep pods will likely be a cheap spot for a quick recline before boarding your flight!

Contact Airport Shuttle for an affordable, reliable taxi service to or from Cape Town International Airport. Don't have a place to stay while visiting the Mother City? Make sure to book in at 808 Cartwright and enjoy the beautiful views!

A Kid-Centered Airport – Singapore Changi

We’ve all been there. While family vacations are wonderful, there is that moment on route where you are just not positive the entire family will make it there in one piece. Whether it is because one sibling seems intent on torture, one child has gotten hungry o worst of all, a parent has forgotten a critical document – family airport time is evil.

In honour of parents who have to travel around the world in search of a fantastic holiday, here is all you need to know about Singapore Changi’s kid-friendly airport.

Butterfly Garden – This is the world's first Butterfly Garden in an airport. It is a tropical butterfly habitat with a profusion of flowering plants, lush greenery and a 6 metre grotto-waterfall. Your kids can go on an educational journey discovery with 1,000 species of butterflies.

Children's Playground – Escape from the heat and check out the indoor air conditioned playgrounds, where your kids can run around in comfort, there is even a three-story slide for the older kids!

Entertainment Deck – From LAN gaming and jamming studios to the MTV booth and various game console stations, your young ones will be spoilt for choice on the many entertainment choices the airport has to offer.

Entertainment Lounge – Enjoy a well-deserved break at the comfortable plush seats in the Entertainment lounge. Favourite television shows for all ages are available here. Your kids can also surf their favourite websites at the internet terminals located beside the TV area.

Family Zone – Families can relax and make use of the various facilities available including diaper changing rooms and nursing rooms. Children can occupy themselves watching cartoons on the televisions or having a go at the playground.

Enchanted Garden – An interactive experience, the Enchanted Garden "magically" comes to life with sight and sound, captivating visitors as they weave through the garden. Motion sensors trigger sounds of nature and blooming flowers while fibre-optic and LED lighting, embedded in the undulating pathways, form a fascinating carpet of sparkling lights.

Free Singapore Tours – Bring the family on an educational tour of Singapore during your transit. Choose between a Colonial and Culture tour.

Interactive Art – Let your kids get creative with woodblock rubbing, a popular Singapore art form from the 50s and 60s as they learn about South East Asia's culture and history.

Internet Terminals – With over 500 free internet terminals located in the airport, children can easy access their favourite websites and online games in just one click.

Koi Pond – Children can pick up pockets of knowledge on Koi and admire the beautiful fish as they swim around leisurely. Let your kids have a go at feeding the Koi at feeding time.

Movie Theatre – Catch the latest blockbusters for free at the 24-hour movie theatres. They have movies suitable for all ages that will provide family entertainment for hours.

Sunflower Garden – Families are greeted warmly by the beautiful blooming sunflowers and a fantastic view of the tarmac. At night, it transform into a light-themed garden with lighting effects and illuminating fixtures.

Swimming Pool – Find a cool oasis at the Balinese-themed swimming pool. While your kids have a splashing good time, you can relax with a good book and work up a tan by the pool side.

TV Lounges – Families can take a break and catch up on their favourite TV shows on the comfy couches.

Food – Pamper your kids with delicious burgers, chocolates, donuts, chicken and so much more from a wide variety of food joints.

Shopping – Your kids will go wild at the assortment of shops like Harrods, Kaboom and Kidztime!

Need to get to and from Cape Town International Airport? Book a shuttle from Airport Shuttle today and one of our reliable, friendly drivers will transport you for an affordable price!

10 Questions you should ask before you rent a holiday home

At times, renting a holiday home, instead of booking into a hotel, apartment or guest house, can give you more bang for your buck. Typically, vacation homes can include things like free WiFi, phone calls, laundry services and you can save money on food costs.

Take a look at 808 Cartwright for an affordable, self-catering apartment with amazing views of Cape Town! They have all you need, from a heated indoor pool to a complimentary gym.

But, regardless if you’re looking to rent a holiday home, there are several questions you should ask before agreeing to any short-term rental…

  Ø  How are the reviews about the vacation rental property? Most online vacation rental companies such as Trip Advisor, Flipkey.com and Homeaway.com, provide reviews of the property and owner. Take your research a step further and contact previous renters or even the owner, to find out more information.

  Ø  How reputable is the vacation rental company? Nowadays anyone with a digital camera and Internet access can take beautiful pictures of a home and surrounding areas and upload them to a rental site. So remember, what you see is not always what you get. A simple Google Search can reveal telling information about a company. If you can, try visiting the home or area before submitting payment.

  Ø  What is the minimum stay required? Some apartments require at least a 3-5-night minimum stay or you may be charged an additional fee for short-term stays.

  Ø  What type of apartment building: walk-up or elevator access? If considering a vacation rental in cities like New York City or Paris, some apartments are only accessible by stairs, so make sure you ask about floor level access if you don’t want to climb up 20 flights of stairs.

  Ø  Are property amenities such as access to the gym, washer/dryer, fireplace and Internet included in the fee?

  Ø  Is the property child and/or pet friendly?

  Ø  Are cleaning fees included? Some vacation rental companies charge one fee for your reservation whereas some may charge a fee per day.

  Ø  Do you have access (e.g., telephone number and email address) to a 24-hour emergency contact or maintenance person? What if the electricity or plumbing goes out? How far are they located from the property?

  Ø  How prompt are the owner’s responses to your questions? If they are to slow to respond or impatient at the number of questions you ask, this could be a red flag.

  Ø  What are the cancellation policies? Typically cancellation policies vary. Check with the owner or property manager to learn more about the terms and conditions.

After you assess your rental needs, like size, price and location, ask these questions before you submit your payment to a rental owner or property manager.

Use the new “Flapp” app to book flights to Cape Town

A brand new app has been launched for Android and iOS, it’s called Flapp! Flapp has been called the “two tap booking app” and is easily available to be downloaded for free from the Google Play Store and Apple’s App Store.

Flapp has created a new and simple way for passengers to book their commute between Johannesburg and Cape Town. And as more carriers take off, the local airline industry is seeing a shift in power back into the hands of the travelers. Flapp is a perfect tool for today’s travelers.

The two-hour flight between Johannesburg and Cape Town is still one of the busiest air routes in the world, and Flapp is designed to satisfy the individual needs of the specific group of travelers who fly this route regularly. By combining all airline content into one mobile app, Flapp offers customers a smooth and secure booking and payment system.

The app comes with some cool, innovative features:

- Real time fares from all airlines
- Results can be filtered by price or departure time
- Same day bookings (up to 2 hours before a flight departs)
- Passenger and credit card details can be saved for two-tap bookings
- Completely secure and makes checkout process fast

Booking patterns for the last year point to the significance of the new Flapp app. 43% of passengers who flew between Johannesburg and Cape Town in the last year booked their flights less than a week before they departed, while more than 90% paid for their bookings with a credit card.

Flapp caters for these travelers by offering a 7 day window of fares bookable for the week ahead. This lightweight design reduces app load time and overall data costs on the user’s end.

If you look at the top of Apple’s local trending searches list, Flapp is probably there. The company has said that their aim is to simplify traveler’s lives by providing the best possible user experience no matter the device or platform customers choose to engage on.

To download Flapp from the Play Store click here… and from the App Store click here…

Contact Airport Shuttle today for a reliable, affordable shuttle service to and from Cape Town International Airport - our friendly drivers will make sure to get you to your flight right on time!

What should you bring on your family holiday?

What is your ideal family break? Take a look at the ideas for family holidays and use the tips and tricks to decide what to bring along.

     ·         Returning to Nature

Bird feed & Binoculars
With the forest literally on your doorstep, it is the perfect time to see local plant life and animals up close.

Wellies, warm coats & waterproofs
The weather could possible get wet and chilly, so make sure you’re prepared! Enjoy the beautiful natural surroundings wrapped up and ready to jump in a few puddles.

Home Comforts
Unwind with your favourite mug and snacks. Relax into the evening, while still enjoying the nature around you.

     ·         Relaxing & Unwinding

Art Friendly clothing
Creative and crafty activities are a fun way to spend the day indoors. Pack something comfy that you won’t mind getting a splash of paint or two on.

A Good Book
An absorbing read is a great way to wind down, and it’s even better if you’re curled up beside a fireplace on an autumn evening.

Home Comforts
Relax for the rest of the night with something tasty to eat. And, of course, your favourite mug.

     ·         Getting Active

Trainers & Tracksuit
Sportswear is essential if you’re looking ti get stuck into some energetic games and activities. You can never pack too many socks!

A Swimsuit
A must-pack item! Ride the rapids and flumes, stay on the go with water fitness, or just relax in the spa pools.

An Appetite
Get stuck into the restaurants and cafes, whether for a hearty evening meal or if you just fancy something indulgent.

     ·         Thrill Seeking

A Sense of Adventure
Let your inner adrenaline junkie go wild, whilst protecting yourself and your belongings. Zip lock plastic bags, water bottles and a repair kit containing safety pins and a sewing kit are a must for the adventurous.

A Swimsuit
Yes, your trusty swimsuit is vital if you’re going to be getting wet during your adventure.

An Appetite
You’ll definitely have a huge appetite on this family holiday. Find a local eatery to enjoy a tasty meal after an action-packed day of adventures.

Things to keep the kids entertained
- An easy to use disposable camera
- Ideas for car games like “I Spy”
- Stories on CDs or MP3
- Favourite toys, games and blankets

Packing tips and tricks
- Roll your clothes up to prevent creases
- Keep your toiletries in sealed bags
- Plan outfits in advance to save space

If you find yourself in the Mother City, make sure to book yourself in at the luxurious, affordable, self-catering apartment - 808 Cartwright Corner.