Are You That Type Of Tourist?

A holiday is all about learning about new cultures and trying new things, it's definitely not about being the annoying tourist everyone hates.

Here's how to avoid being that annoying tourist...

PACK THE RIGHT CLOTHING

When you are packing your bag, make sure you know  about any traditional clothing rules, especially in countries where religion and gender customs are extremely important. Visiting a church in Europe? Don't wear a strapless mini dress! A temple in Asia? Opt for shoes that can be easily taken off.

LEARN IMPORTANT PHRASES IN THE NATIVE LANGUAGE

Learning a bit of the native language is a good way to fit in, but make sure you actually use them! Memorize the important words and phrases, like "thank you".

PLAN HOW TO GET AROUND BEFORE YOU LEAVE

No, we don't mean Uber. You have to be aware of your surroundings, like where your hotel is compared to the rest of the city. So be sure to have Google Maps ready, you can even use it offline - here's how!

TRY TO BLEND IN

The best way to avoid looking like an annoying tourist is to do what the locals do. Study the country's ways and mannerisms. If everyone eats fried lambs brains and drinks beer for supper, then you'd better toughen up!

Airport Shuttle in Cape Town and Durban is a reliable, affordable way to get to and from the airport - contact Airport Shuttle today and book your ride!

This Riding Suitcase Is Fun & gets you to your destination!

Oh no! Your alarm didn't go off (well, it did but you pressed snooze), there was a ridiculous amount of traffic and the line for a ticket was crazy. Now you have to run to the other side of the airport with all your luggage. If only there was a quicker, simpler way...

 Never fear - there is a way! It is called Modobag, and it is the first motorized, rideable suitcase in the world!

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You can back the project on Indiegogo, where it’s already raised about 616% of its $50,000 goal, and if you decide to preorder one (for $995), the company says you'll be racing around on your suitcase in January 2017!

The bag, which reaches speeds up to 13km/h, weighs a not-insignificant 8.6kg, which you could see as a negative or, if you’re a positive person, a reminder to stop over-packing.

 It's not recommended that you ride the Modobag all the way to the airport - contact Airport Shuttle in Cape Town or Durban and book your shuttle for a cheap, comfy ride

Shops & Facilities

We bring to you the shops and facilities that you can go and check out in Cape Town international when you are a few hours early for your flight!

We have you covered from multiple food places that you can go dine from, as well as all you accessories and cell needs! Maybe you need that last minute ring decision, don’t worry the airport has you covered.

1. Out Of Africa – African Souvenir & Mementos

2. MTN – Cellular & Electronics

3. Vodacome – Cellular & Electronics

4. CAPI – Cellular & Electronics

5. Sunglass Hut – Fashion & Accessories

6. Barcelos – Food & Beverage

7. Steers – Food & Beverage

8. Mugg & Bean – Food & Beverage

9. Spur – Food & Beverage

10. KFC – Food & Beverage

11. Woolworths – Department Sortes

12. Shimansky – Luxury & Gifts

13. Express – Hair, Health & Beauty

And so so much more, you have up to 44 stores to choose from when you are here, I would say you come nice and early to shop around! Don’t forget to keep some space in your luggage bag.  

About Airport Shuttle.

Established in Cape Town in 2002, Airport Shuttle has grown into one of the leading transfer service providers in Cape Town, Johannesburg and Durban. We have become well known and trusted for accommodating not only passengers and special requests, but also large groups and day tours. We provide airport transfers on a pre-booked and private basis - in other words, we don't pick up other passengers or drop them off along the way - we're here to have YOU arrive at your destination safely, comfortably and on time.

Airport Shuttle is the preferred transfer service provider of a wide variety of hotels, guest houses, corporates and travel agencies country wide. Please enquire about our dedicated on-line booking portal for companies to make booking your shuttles quicker and easier!

Please contact us directly on +27 (0)21 551 8785 or +27 (0)82 951 3646 or info@asct.co.za if you prefer personal contact in making your booking.

New York direct flights a boon for Cape Town tourism

The launch of United Airlines first-ever direct flights between New York and cape town in December has already led to an 11% increase in forward bookings by US tourist to the mother city for this summer season!

The united airlines will take off from Newark liberty international Airport in New York in December and it’s said that there will be 3 flights a week. This will all lower cost and time in a major way. The US is a key tourism source market for Cape Town and the Western cape, with around 200 000 American tourists coming here annually.

Tim Harris CEO of Wesgro says: We have been targeting this route for years, so it is a significant development for Wesgro and our Cape Town air access initiative, which is a joint venture with the private sector to secure more international air routes for the city.

The Western Cape has been in drought and this great rise has not come in a better in as the Western Cape has just come out of droughts and it hits straight into summer. All this is going to no doubt bolster tourist arrival numbers to Cape Town and the country as a whole. We believe that we are turning the corner.

United Airlines plans to operate a Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner aircraft on the route, with a seating capacity of 252 passengers. This will include 48 Business class seats, 88 economy-plus seats and 116 economy class seats.

This is all new and exciting things for us all and 2020 does not stop there. We cannot wait to show people how this world is changing and hope everyone jumps on board with us. Get in contact with us on 0215518785 or 0829513646 for all your Shuttle needs at the airport. Airport Shuttle.

How Will Cape Town International Look In 2023?

A new runway and international and domestic departure lounges is due to be built at Cape Town international airport within the next four years. The expansions will increase the airports capacity after its international arrivals increased by 9% in 2019. The airports company promises that passenger disruption will be kept to a minimum, and that flight will still be able to depart and land normally during construction.

It’s said that Cape Town international airport is set for a R7 Billion new runway, as well as some new grand lounges due to be completed by 2023. They said that it is set to start this year! Yes you heard right they can start in 2020.

We are aware that the drought that we had heavily affected the local tourism industry and made our Airport a little less footprint. Revamping this airport will just bring a more homely feel to the environment and effect not only our tourists but all of our locals.

There is also a realigned 3.500 meter runway that will allow larger aircraft and the world’s largest passenger airline and that would be no other than the airbus A380 to land at the airport. How exciting!

Provisions have been made for even more future projects to take place so future expansion of the airport terminals towards the runway and accommodate additional aircraft. The world is expanding and growing at a rapid speed, we need to keep up!

A few other things like the baggage hall and meet and greet area will all be reconfigured and upgraded to a new and exciting accommodation. Yes! I am sure you are thinking, but what about the flights that will now be delayed or will there be enough aircrafts while this construction goes ahead? All precautions will be taken for all passengers.

For all your reliable, affordable shuttle service to and from the airport in Cape Town or Durban please do not hesitate to call Airport Shuttle. Make easy bookings on www.asct.co.za

Major Changes For Airport Staff

South African airport staff arrested and fired for stealing as they do a major security seep.

Some airports like OR Tambo international Airport says it has scored early successes in its peak season security operations designed to detect and disrupt criminal activity as we all know the holidays are now kicking off.

It said that so far they have dismissed 10 people and 10 people have been arrested I attempts to smuggle items from the airside have been foiled. This is the most traffic in airport with people you will see now is the months between December & January. The airport anticipates that more than 3.1 million passengers will fly in and out during that time period. There are 2 days that top them all and that is the Friday before Christmas and the first Friday in January.

Security has been ramped up with additional members being provided by the South African Police Service and licensed security contractors to help us take all the measures we need to take such as random stop and search operations of people working in and around the airport. Other measures also include CCTV cameras in real time to be checked.

Staff with permits to work on the airside are not only going to be subjected to random stop and searches but are also going to be subjected to intensify searches at access points, both entering and leaving access-controlled areas.

Betty Maloka, Senior Manager: Is determined to maintain the safety and security of passengers and airport visitors this festive season.

We will make sure and are cautiously optimistic that we are well placed to mitigate security risks. Engineering and IT systems to prevent unnecessary delays.

What does your Chinese zodiac sign say about your travel style?

Many people have long been fascinated by what we believe our births can tell us about ourselves. Zodiac charts are often used for making decisions about life, love and work, but they can also inform us about our travel choices as well.

RAT (BIRTH YEARS: 1912, 1924, 1936, 1948, 1960, 1972, 1984, 1996, 2008)

You enjoy the challenge of travel and are more likely than others to just pick up and go. You prefer to plan (or not plan!) your own journeys and seek out new places even when you are visiting a place you’ve been to before.

OX (BIRTH YEARS: 1913, 1925, 1937, 1949, 1961, 1973, 1985, 1997, 2009)

You have a strong attachment to your home country and you enjoy exploring your native land. You enjoy travelling and going on vacations with your partner, friends or children. You prefer to plan your travel with a lot of details rather than simply winging it.

TIGER (BIRTH YEARS: 1914, 1926, 1938, 1962, 1974, 1986, 1998, 2010)

You like to stand out from the crowd, which means you tend to seek out bragging-rights destinations when you travel. You are often the first of your friends to visit a certain destination, and you take pride in travelling with as few plans as possible – you enjoy the challenge!

RABBIT (BIRTH YEARS: 1915, 1927, 1939, 1951, 1963, 1975, 1987, 1999, 2011)

You prefer to travel to places known for art, cooking and fashion. Places that are quieter and more serene appeal to you and you enjoy trips where there is a lot of quiet time.

DRAGON (BIRTH YEARS: 1916, 1928, 1940, 1952, 1964, 1976, 1988, 2000, 2012)

You particularly like active travel, often in the form of extreme adventure! However, you have very little patience for cultural expectations, so you avoid countries with dress codes and humble behavior.

SNAKE (BIRTH YEARS: 1917, 1929, 1941, 1953, 1965, 1977, 1989, 2001, 2013)

You will search for understated, but upscale travel. You also enjoy learning about the destinations and if given the chance to attend a lecture during your travels, you will most probably jump at the opportunity.

HORSE (BIRTH YEARS: 1918, 1930, 1942, 1954, 1966, 19798, 1990, 2002, 2014)

You seek busy travel destinations like cities and party resorts, you’re much more interested in escorted tours than anyone else. Nothing would be better for you than a getaway with large group of friends or a vacation with the extended family.

GOAT (BIRTH YEARS: 1919, 1931, 1943, 1955, 1967, 1979, 1991, 2003, 2015)

You like to travel solidly on the beaten path, whether you travel alone or in a group, you are happy either way. Destinations that provide food for thought intrigue you and first-class travel is a must.

MONKEY (BIRTH YEARS: 1920, 1932, 1944, 1956, 1968, 1980, 1992, 2004)

You want to dig into a city’s unknown history, see what’s hidden and get past the restricted access signs! When you travel you will seek out the behind-the-scenes tours and exclusive access.

NEVER east these foods before flying

What you eat before you get on board can make a big impact on how you feel once you’re in the air, so leave those dining disasters off your pre-flight checklist and you’ll avoid the dreaded “jet bloat”, being the smelly seatmate and other flying horrors.

BEANS

Always avoid anything that can cause access gas build up in your tummy that means the obvious suspects like beans, broccoli and cabbage. You don’t want to spend the entire flight feeling bloated and no one on board will appreciate a gassy passenger.

FIZZY COOL-DRINKS

Yes, fizzy drinks can cause gas. Not only that, but drinks with caffeine will keep you from sleeping and cause multiple trips to the bathroom. The carbonation will probably also cause you to burp continuously and get heartburn.

GARLIC

Everyone knows it – garlic causes bad breath. Having stinky garlic breath while you’re in the tight quarters of a plane is not a nice thing for the passengers around you, plus it can also cause bad body odor.

FRENCH FRIES

The wonderful smell of fries in the airport can be your biggest weakness, but you need to fight the urges and avoid eating them before you get on your flight! The fats and oils in fried food can cause heart burn which can lead to a very uncomfortable flight.

CHILI PEPPERS

Spicy food can cause discomfort in your stomach and bladder irritation, it can also leave you with a burning mouth. You don’t want to deal with your mouth feeling on fire during your flight, so avoid the hot peppers.

BUBBLE GUM

Gum might stop your ears from popping, but guess what? The more you chew the more air you swallow which leads to gas build up in your stomach and that means being bloated! The artificial sweetener in the gum can also cause flatulence.

Try these in flight dining hacks from Airport Shuttle - https://airportshuttlecapetown.blogspot.co.za/2016/09/10-genius-in-flight-dining-hacks.html

Flight Compensation

Are you eligible for flight delay compensation?

Great question right, well we all know the feeling. You are so excited to go on holiday or to see your family that you have checked in 4 hours early so you can scroll around get some coffee maybe even a gift or 2. While sitting at the airport gate, waiting to board the plane, when suddenly a voice on the PA announces that your flight is delayed.

For some, let’s face it. We do not mind at all in staying longer and waiting a little while as it’s a holiday as you are not going to get stressed out. But the hassle stays the same, flight delays are always trouble and the least you can do is get flight delay compensation that’ll make your wait more comfortable right!

When it comes to air travel, flight compensation depends on your country of travel. For example, in the EU, you’ll take a look at European Union legislation. It’s the regulation that defines the rules and compensation for passengers traveling to, from or within the EU. If your flight has been delayed, you’re entitled to assistance, and benefits or compensation. You can choose between:

Rerouting

Reimbursement

Re-booking

You will get compensation for most of everything if you know how to look for it and do some homework. Flight is late YES, Delay Compensation YES and so research will tell you. Did you know that you can even get some assistance? This mean food and drinks maybe even accommodation and transfer to and from the hotel.

Now you must be thinking, what about paperwork, yes there will always be paperwork as everything needs to be documented for both parties. Always remember to do your homework. Other than that have a great time at the airport and enjoy your flight!

Go have a look at Airport Shuttle and we will give you the best service. airportshuttlecapetown.co.za 

All about Airport Parking

There are many things to think about before heading off on holiday and let’s face it, your airport parking is pretty low down on the list. However neglecting it could end up costing you time and money let alone all the hassle.

We all think about leaving it with a family or friend but will it really be taken care of? Here are some tips below for booking your airport parking.

First you should book early! Take advantage of the best deals, many people leave it till the last minute and end up paying for it. And yes we do know that some pricing can be a bit on the high side however it does vary between products and months. The prices to tend to go up when the parks get booked up and there is a little space left.

If you do book in advance then just make sure to re confirm and make sure that it is cancel-able in case of unforeseen circumstances. Always choose the product that suits your needs, everyone’s needs are very different and it’s vital you choose the correct product.

Yes a lot of your car parks are a little further from the airport terminals, but not to worry as we have shuttle buses that are at no charge to you! This is how you will get started. With a meet and greet service you would be met at the terminal by a fully insured chauffeur from the car park. They will ask if you need any help with unloading your luggage. On your return they will meet and greet you and wait for you ready to be taken back to your car.

Make sure to always check for the transfer time. It is the estimated transfer time to the airport terminal. Anything up to 20 Mins should be OK. I would recommend that you rather be early. 

How to protect yourself from Online Travel Scams

Thanks to the internet, these days it is so easy to just about anything, such as booking travel reservations! However, every year the amount of fake travel booking websites grows because it is so easy for cybercriminals to scam consumers.

According to recent surveys, about 15 million online reservations are made every year on fake travel websites! That means that these websites trick people into thinking they are booking their reservation, but instead they are allowing cybercriminals to steal their private data such as their money and credit card information.

Here’s how to avoid online travel scams…

1. When making a booking always go directly to the company’s official website, whether it is for a hotel, airline, airport shuttle service (www.asct.co.za), etc. if you’re not sure if it’s the real website or not, give them a call to verify their website.

2. If you do need to use a third=party website, make sure it is a trusted and well-known brand.

3. Always try to get recommendations for trusted travel companies or websites from your friends and family.

4. When you do your online bookings, always use a credit card instead of a debit card just in case the website isn’t legitimate, at least your credit card will probably have fraud protection.

5. After you’ve made a reservation, call the company afterward to confirm. If there is no record of your reservation at least you will know you’ve been scammed sooner rather than later. From there you can alert your bank and report the fraud.

8 easy ways 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 spend their holiday feeling tired with insomnia, confusion, and irritability. Don’t worry if you’re travelling soon here are some easy, effective things you can do to fight jet lag!

Prepare your internal clock

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

Stay hydrated at all times
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 mealtimes 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.

Keep these helpful little tips to almost try and trick Mother Nature into letting you fly around the world without experiencing the dreaded jet lag.

Has the horrible jet lag hit you hard? Book your shuttle from the Airport with Airport Shuttle, contact them for the best, reliable, convenient shuttle service.

5 Useful Tips for Travelling with your Pets

Pet owners who are going away for a summer holiday and plan on bringing their furry friends along for the ride need to know how to travel safely!

To give you complete peace of mind here are 5 useful tips for travelling with your pets…

Puppy pads. Even if your pet is fully grown and fully housetrained, travelling can be stressful for them and can make them a bit confused which can result in some accidents. Always make sure you’re prepared with some puppy pads.

Have them tagged. In case of an emergency it is vital that your pet is wearing a reliable, strong collar as well as tag with all your contact details.

Bring along all the necessities. When you’re travelling with your pet the last thing you want to worry about is filling their medication prescription or finding that specific brand of food. Avoid stressing and pack enough medication, food, etc. for the entire trip.

Go for a check-up before you leave. Before you embark on your journey be sure to take a quick trip to the vet and have a full check-up. If your pet usually gets anxiety from travelling, your vet should prescribe something for your pet.

Find pet-friendly accommodation. A lot of places do not accommodate pets, so it is important that you check ahead before you make any bookings. If you have a large pet, you may want to consider opting for a holiday home.

Have an amazing travel experience with your furry friend, all you have to do is plan ahead and keep these 5 useful tips in mind.

For a reliable, affordable shuttle service to and from the airport in Cape Town or Durban contact Airport Shutte. Make an easy online booking on www.asct.co.za.

8 Ways to Beat the Heat when you’re Travelling this Summer

People love to travel in the summer months, but in places such as Cape Town, the scorching heat can make it extremely uncomfortable to travel.

Here are 8 ways to beat the heat when you’re travelling this summer.

1. Drink lots of liquids. It is so important to stay hydrated when you travel, so be sure to drink lots of water. Always drink chilled water to bring down your core temperature, whether you are being active or not.

2. Bring your sunblock. Even if you think you’re going to be inside for your entire trip, it is always best to pack your sunblock. If you do get sunburnt you’ll be stuck feeling overheated the entire time.

3. Try to eat lighter foods. What you put in your stomach can heat the rest of your body, so try to choose foods and only eat meals that keep you full as well as hydrated.

4. Wear the right clothes. Try your best to wear loose, light-coloured clothing and avoid wearing dark colours and too many unnecessary layers. Cotton clothing will keep you cool by absorbing and releasing heat and sweat.

5. Pack your hat. Not only will a hat protect you from the sun but it will also keep you cool throughout the day. Choose a larger hat as it is vital that you keep the sunshine off your neck – it has a big impact on what your internal temperature is.

6. Plan ahead. Always plan ahead and check what the weather is like so you know what to pack in your suitcase. Check the weather at the airport as well as at all your stops along the way.

7. Cluster your activities. There is nothing worse than travelling all over the show with the hot summer sun beating down on you. If it is possible rather cluster the activities you want to do together to avoid long, hot walks or rides. For a reliable, affordable shuttle service, contact Airport Shuttle to book your ride! Use the online booking system on www.asct.co.za or call +27 (0)21 551 8785 | +27 (0)82 951 3646.

8. Eat some ice cream! It’s yummy and it’s great to eat on a hot summer’s day. So go get yourself an ice cream and enjoy your holiday.

Do not get caught feeling like you’re in an oven, it’ll only ruin your trip, use these 8 tips to beat the heat when you’re travelling this summer.

Did you know these facts about Christmas in The Mother City?

Christmas is swiftly approaching and if you're spending Christmas in the Mother City then you need to know what to expect about the festive season. 

Here are some fun facts about Christmas in the Mother City:

1. Capetonians love massive Christmas day lunches. This is pretty much similar to anywhere else around the world, big buffet-style lunches are a must-have. Christmas lunch is often served early or the day before so that the day is enjoyed to the fullest with gifts being opened and fun in the sun. Here are some of the most popular Christmas lunch foods:

Glazed Gammon
Christmas mince pies
Roast chicken
Malva pudding
Cold salads

2. Capetonians love spending Christmas day at the beach. After enjoying a massive Christmas lunch, many families will head out to the beach for the rest of the day. Don’t expect to have much space though; the beaches can be really crowded on Christmas day!

3. Capetonians love to braai on Christmas day. If you’re not at the beach or at a restaurant having lunch with friends and family, the next best thing is to have a braai outside in the sunshine. In South Africa, we never really need an excuse to braai and Christmas day is perfect. Don’t forget to bring your own alcoholic beverages and be prepared for massive amounts of food including sides and salads. Here are some of the most popular braai foods:

Sosaties
Braaibroodjies
Potjiekos
Skilpadjies
Boerewors
Apricot snoek
Potato salad

If you are planning on spending your Christmas in the Mother City be sure to contact Airport Shuttle to book your shuttle service to and from the airport. Book your shuttle using our online booking system or call +27 (0)21 551 8785 or +27 (0)82 951 3646.

5 Silly Myths about Air Travel

A lot of people will believe anything that they hear about air travel including a lot of the ridiculous misconceptions. Some people just don’t realise that these silly air travel myths just aren’t true, here are 5 you need to stop believing!

Pilots make a lot of money.

Pilots are believed to be up there alongside doctors and lawyers when it comes to the amount of money that they make. But did you know that ticket prices continue to decline and so have the salaries that the pilots receive?

Flight attendants are basically sky waiters.

Imagine being in the public all day long, people have had a few rounds of drinks, babies are crying, people are chatting and laughing. Now add this all into a small enclosed place and the fact that you have to smile and be polite the entire time. This is the life of a flight attendant, so be polite and be nice!

Flying is very expensive.

It really isn’t that pricey, especially when you plan ahead and get a great discount on tickets that it almost seems too cheap. Since the 1980s the prices for tickets have really gone down, so flying really was considered to be very expensive, but it really isn’t so bad.

Disasters have simple causes.

You are not going to crash and die just because you get on a plane. The only way the plane will go down because of turbulence is if it’s the final step in an improbable chain of events that have an extremely tiny, molecule chance of happening. Serious incidents always involve a whole host of factors that lead to tragedy.

Flying is the most dangerous form of travel.

If you are scared of flying then you might as well be scared of a potato or something that will never technically kill you. When it comes to statistics, motorcycles are the most dangerous form of transport. Vans kill thousands but are twice as safe as your average car and very few people die on buses. Every single year, thousands of people are killed on the road in car accidents, including pedestrians. The only reason you believe air travel is so dangerous is that you hear of every single incident.

Did you know that you are 65 times more likely to die in a car than in a plane? Do you know of anyone who’s ever been in a plane crash? Probably not, but you probably know someone who’s been in a car accident!

Do you need safe, reliable and comfortable transportation to and from the airport? Be sure to book your shuttle on Airport Shuttle’s easy online booking system or call +27 (0)21 551 8785 or +27 (0)82 951 3646.