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.

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.

5 Things you need to know about Travelling on Christmas Day

Travelling during the holiday season is stressful and chaotic to say the least; however there is one travel hack you can take advantage of, travelling on Christmas day!

No one wants to travel on Christmas day, so the airports are usually a lot less crowded and the airfares are much cheaper, but a lot of amenities are often closed because it is after all Christmas day.

Here are 5 important things you need to know about travelling on Christmas day:

1. Bring your own food.

Airports are open on Christmas day, however many of the shops or restaurants are closed, making it hard for you to buy something to eat. Your best bet is to pack your own snacks and meals as well as water.

2. Give yourself extra travel time.

Public transportation to and from the airport on Christmas day can be unreliable, not to mention traffic, so make sure to plan how you will travel ahead of time if you’re taking the bus or using a taxi. Contact Airport Shuttle in Cape Town and Durban if you’re looking for a reliable airport shuttle service to and from the airport, book your ride with the easy online booking system www.asct.co.za | www.asdbn.co.za or call +27 (0)21 551 8785 | +27 (0)82 951 3646.

3. Bring extra reading material.

On Christmas day the airport is relatively quiet so it’s a great place to catch up on your reading while you wait for your flight. Be sure to fill up your e-reader or bring along and interesting magazine or the latest novel.

4. Always have emergency information.

Even though Christmas day is a relatively easy day to travel because there are barely any crowds, the airport usually has minimal staff working. Always keep your emergency contact information on hand as well as the number for the hotel you are staying at and the car services you are using.

5. Be nice! 

Half-empty flights on Christmas day means you might stand a chance getting an upgrade, but the trick is that you need to be extra nice. All you have to do is ask and maybe if you’re polite and friendly enough, you might score an upgrade.

Flying on Christmas day means the flights are cheaper and the airport is not as busy, but it can also mean longer travel times to get to the airport and almost no dining options. So make sure to be prepared with these 5 tips and have a happy holiday!

Do not eat these foods before your flight!

If you ask anyone, they’ll give you a list of reasons why flying is stressful, from tiny seats and fat people to extra-long delays and demonic flight attendants. So with all this rushing through your mind, do you really want to make your flight worse by eating the wrong food? Here’s a few you should never touch before stepping on-board a plane.

´ Fried Chicken
If you’re obsessed with fried chicken (most of us are) then now is the time to be strong and turn down the dirty bird. It’s a real oily mess of a meal. Greasy and pungent, the planes filters can only handle so much. As a matter of fact, it’s not only fried chicken that should be avoided, but any food that has more fatty oil than a teen’s forehead. The fact is, once you’ve eaten anything fried, the fat just sits in your stomach, turns into acid and gives you heartburn.

´ Alcohol
A liquid lunch isn’t technically a food, but it should still be avoided. Alcohol apparently has many medicinal benefits when it comes to flying. Some say it gets rid of their fear of flying, others say it helps them sleep on a long flight and teenagers swear it makes them look really cool! Yes, some of this is true, but it actually disrupts sleep and teenagers are never cool, plus it’ll be hard to stay hydrated meaning you’ll get drunker quicker, resulting in an awkward flirting encounter with the passenger next to you. Apart from that, do you really want to wake up with a terrible hangover?

´ Baked Beans
These little packages of pure evil will have you losing friends faster than a hostile game of Monopoly. It’s best to avoid them, even at the best of times, although everyone loves good ol’ beans on toast! But if you’re going to be stuck in a plane with anxious flyers and short fuses then you don’t want to turn your flight into a catastrophic nuclear accident. Soluble fibre is to blame for the beans explosive properties; broccoli, cauliflower and cabbage are also chief culprits, so it’s best to avoid those too.

´ Fish
Leaving fish off a plane should be a no-brainer and this includes nearly every morsel from under the sea. And before you start to argue, yes, this includes sushi, mermaids and the Loch Ness Monster. The smell of fish alone is unpleasant, but it’s also risky. One bad prawn could leave you in the plane’s toilet for the rest of the flight!

´ Curry
Curry is one of the greatest foods, but it’s one of the worst foods to eat before your flight. Spicy foods can cause indigestion and disrupt sleep; and it does this with the help of a cheeky ingredient called capsaicin, which is found in chili peppers. It basically works like broken thermometer and messes up your body temperature. It has also been linked to those horrible trips to the bathroom and the dreaded ring sting.

´ Dairy
Your milkshake may bring all the boys to the yard, but don’t bring them on the plane. Too much dairy, like stuffing down a whole wheel of cheese, has the potential to curdle your stomach and it can also cause problems if you have IBS. Dairy is also one of the most common causes of food poisoning. So maybe give the jumbo chocolate milkshake and the ice cream sundae a skip.

´ Caffeine
Caffeine has its health benefits, such as improved memory and the ability to turn half-dead employees into hyperactive machines. However, one of its benefits is also one of its pitfalls – you’ll be awake and unable to sleep. This is completely fine on short flights, but on long hauls, its best to avoid any sort of caffeine. Keep in mind there is a surprisingly large amount of stuff with caffeine in it, including some chocolate, ice cream, weight-loss pills and painkillers.

If you want to avoid being stuck in a giant metallic bird thousands of miles above the earth with an upset stomach, food poisoning, a hangover or much worse – NEVER eat these foods and then get onto a plane!

Looking for a reliable shuttle service to get you to and from Cape Town International Airport? Airport Shuttle is an affordable option, plus we take pride in getting you where you need to be comfortably and on time!

How to Stay Warm and Comfortable on a Long Flight!

Long flights are usually uncomfortable and not something one would look forward to, especially during the colder months. However if you prepare properly, you can ensure that you stay warm as well as comfortable when you’re flying on a plane…

1. Choose the right seat. When you are choosing your seat, stay away from the seats close to the exit doors as these areas will be the draughtiest. Also remember that although window seats are nice, they also tend to be the chillier option.

2. Dress comfortably. Wearing your winter coat at the airport will not only keep you warm but also leave up some extra space in your suitcase. Layer as much as you can to keep warm as well as to open up some luggage space.

3. Wear a scarf, hoody or shawl. Apart from keeping you warm during your flight, these items can be taken off and double as a pillow or a blanket. It is also possible to use these items to cover your face and tune out the world if you’re considering taking a nap.

4. Put on sensible shoes. No matter where you are travelling to, it is always more comfortable for you to wear socks and shoes. These will keep your feet warm as well as comfortable during your trip.

5. Bring a travel blanket. Always bring a travel blanket along with you on your flight. Use it to cover yourself and stay warm and comfortable – it’ll also help if you’re having trouble falling asleep.

6. Keep yourself entertained. Keeping yourself entertained will ensure that you enjoy your flight and you’ll get through it a lot quicker. Bring along your laptop or your favourite book and you’ll be there in no time!

Do you know of any other tips on how to stay warm and comfortable on your flight?

Airport Shuttle is a reliable, affordable airport transfer services that will get you were you need to be comfortably and on time - book your shuttle now using our easy online booking system! 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.

How to Tip in South Africa

Tipping is a confusing topic because every country has its own etiquette, so much does thank you cost in the rainbow nation?

Car Guards

Service – Car guards only seem to occur in South Africa. They are people who help you with parking and look after your car while you go about your business. There are always two sides to every coin though. Some car guards are legit and are working towards feeding themselves and their families, while some have simply claimed a yellow vest and “watch” your car in between sips of wine. Use your discretion when dealing with car guards, they are not responsible if anything happens to your car, but they will swear on their grave that it is safe under their watch.
Tip – R2 – R5 per parking
Do – Make sure you have some small change available (they don’t usually carry change)
Don’t – Feel like you HAVE to leave a tip, especially if they seem drunk or if they are nowhere near your car when you return.

Taxi Drivers

Service – These guys will drive you to your requested destination. In South Africa, there are two types of taxis on the roads, minivan taxis, and metered cabs. The minivan taxis don’t require a tip, but the metered cabs do, depending on the service. Tip – Round up to the nearest 10 or leave up to R20 for city-to-out-of-town driving
Do – Judge your tip by the number of stops you make and the distance you are taken
Don’t – Be bullied into a set price, always ask for the meter to be put on

Hotel Staff

Service – Porters are the guys who take your bags to your room, while another team will cook and bring you’re your food. Housekeepers keep your room clean and tidy during your stay and other general staff may wait on you in the hotel restaurant or organise books and tours for you.
Tip for Porter – R10 – R100
Tip for Room Service – Leftover change
Tip for General Staff Box – R100 – R500 depending on the length of your stay and meals.
Do – Carry envelopes for tips you want to give to certain people
Don’t – Feel like you have to tip at self-catering lodges

Bar Staff

Service – Bar staff serve you your drinks at the bar and help you to enjoy your get-together. When tipping bar staff in South Africa, it’s quite common to leave small change on small rounds and a bigger tip when ordering a bigger round.
Tip – 10% - 20% of the bill
Do – Use your discretion and value the bartender’s time.
Don’t – Leave money on the bar, give it directly to the specific bar staff you would like to tip

Waiters/Waitresses

Service – They take your orders at restaurants, bring you your food and drinks then clean up after you are done eating and drinking.
Tip – 10% of the bill, more for special service
Do – Check your bill, sometimes the tip is included.
Don’t – Tip more than you would like if you haven’t received good service.

Petrol Attendant

Service – Petrol attendants are also a South African only service. These people fill your tank at the petrol station while you remain in your car. Depending on what you need, they will also check your oil, water, tyre pressure and wash your windows.
Tip – R2 – R5 per petrol stop
Do – Take into account the services being offered, like checking your tyre pressure and washing your windows.
Don’t – Feel obliged to give a big tip, or any tip at all, especially if you just make a quick, simple stop at the petrol station, especially if you have to wait long and hoot for the petrol attendant.

Always remember, as, in other countries, a tip is an acknowledgment of a certain kind of service, so use your discretion and be the judge of your own experience.

Are you looking for a reliable, speedy shuttle service to and from Cape Town International Airport at affordable prices? Contact Airport Shuttle today! 

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

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.

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!

5 Mother-Daughter Trips that will bring you two even closer for Mother’s Day!

All differences aside, having a mother-daughter relationship is great, and most of the time the two of you will make a lovely pair of travel buddies!

So if you’re looking for a little inspiration for your next mother-daughter trip together or you’re planning something special for Mother’s Day, here are 5 ideas that will taking your relationship to the next level!

Safari Expedition – Does your mother have an eye for adventure and exploring? If so, she’ll love visiting the Serengeti which is filled with elephants, baby wildebeests and giraffes playing in the bush. Now the hard part is just deciding where to go.

Wellness Retreat – Cleanse the mind, body and soul at a holistic getaway that will take your mother-daughter relationship to the next level. Be sure to pack a journal and be prepared to give up the booze while you’re there!

Vineyard Tour – Wine lovers will appreciate travelling from one vineyard to the next, testing their knowledge and getting a little tipsy. There are many must-visit regions where the vineyards are abundant as well as charming, so choosing one might be the most difficult part of this trip.

Foodie Adventure – Some moms love museums, while others would just love to eat their way through a city! If you and your mother are both proud foodies then plan an entire trip based around food and what meals you’ll be eating. Better yet – take some cooking classes while you’re at it and you might just learn a thing or two.

Glamping Girl’s Trip – You both love the great outdoors, so plan a trip that includes sleeping under the stars and waking up to watch the rising sun and enjoy the fresh air. A girl’s glamping trip means you’ll not only be able to enjoy nature but also a hot shower and a warm dinner too.

Mother-daughter trips are a great way to become each other’s best travel buddy – If you need a little inspiration consider these 5 ideas! 

Looking for an affordable shuttle service to get you where you need to be? Feel free to make your booking online with the easy online booking system or contact Airport Shuttle today 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.

3 ways to get around in Cape Town

Visiting a new country or even a new city can be a scary and daunting thing. Not only are you a stranger in a new place, but you have no idea how to get from A to B in a safe, reliable way. Try your best not to become overwhelmed – the best thing you can do for yourself is to do some research and plan ahead.

Should you be visiting the Mother City, there are a range of different transportation options available, from hiring a car or taking the bus to using a professional airport transfer service such as Airport Shuttle in Cape Town.

Have complete peace of mind knowing you will have one less thing to stress about when you visit Cape Town. Here are the top 3 transportation options in Cape Town:

      1.       Airport Transfer – Airport Shuttle in Cape Town as well as Durban is a professional airport transfer service company that can get you where you need to be comfortably and on time. Use the simple online booking system to book and pay for your airport transfer in Cape Town!

      2.       MyCiTi Bus – If you are looking for a really cheap, efficient way to get around then the MyCiTi bus should be your next option, but keep in mind that they do not travel everywhere in Cape Town.

      3.       Care Hire – Hiring a car can be expensive, but if that is not an issue for you then you should consider it. Always remember that there are downsides such as the price of buying petrol as well as finding decent parking.

If you’d like to sit back and relax in an airport transfer vehicle while they drive you where you need to be in Cape Town, then look no further than Airport Shuttle in Cape Town – book your airport transfer today on www.asct.co.za or email directly to info@asct.co.za or call +27 (0)21 551 8785 | +27 (0)82 951 3646

Top 4 Travel Disasters

You’ve packed your spare undies, travel pillow and all your guidebooks, but what if you have to deal with a travel disaster that could possible ruin your entire holiday? Putting these travel disaster in the back of your mind will not prevent them from happening, however preparing for them can ease your pain!

Lost/Stolen Passport

A traveller’s worst nightmare is opening up your bag and discovering that your passport is not there! The main dilemma is that it is gone and you need to take action immediately. Backtrack to wherever you were before and search from corner to corner – it is also a good idea to keep a copy of your ID with you at all times.

Missed Flight

It is recommended that you always arrive at the airport 2 – 3 hours before your flight, missing a flight can happen to anyone even if you’re on time for everything; certain factors can result in you missing your flight such as bad weather and security checkpoints.

Lost Luggage

You’re waiting for your luggage, but none of the bags are yours – the airline has lost your luggage! Always hang on to your luggage claim ticket and make sure you contact details are on a label on your bag just in case this awful event occurs.

Illness or Injury

Getting sick when you’re not in the comfort of your own home can be scary, so the best way to deal with it is to prepare for the problem before it even occurs. Research the country’s emergency numbers as well as English-speaking doctors and hospitals.

It’s not ideal when you arrive somewhere and you don’t have a shuttle service to get you to your accommodation destination - Airport Shuttle can help you out with their reliable, quick airport shuttle service! 

You should NEVER pack these 7 things when you Travel

You’re on your way to Paris, but dragging your giant suitcase to baggage check is basically breaking your body in half. Leave these 7 things out of your suitcase when you're planning your next holiday - they're just not worth it.

SHOES THAT HURT YOUR FEET
That huge pair of wedges that almost caused you to break your ankle? Those pumps that are way too small for your feet, but look so cute? Leave them at home! You'll be thankful in the long run.

HARDCOVER BOOKS

Heavy, hardcover books make it easy for your luggage to go over the carry-on limit. Find something else to read, preferably something lighter and save the 800-page novel for when you’re at home.

A BATHING SUIT YOU DON'T FEEL CONFIDENT IN
If you’re feeling unsure in front of your bathroom mirror, there’s no way you’re going to love that suit once you’re actually on the beach. Leave the skimpy number at home if you don’t feel comfortable and rather pick out one that is more flattering.

TOO MUCH DENIM
Your favourite blue jeans don’t dirty that easily, in fact experts recommend washing them once a month! This means you can get away with packing just one or two pairs and re-wearing from day to day, instead of packing your whole wardrobe.

TOILETRIES
Most hotels provide shampoo, conditioner, soap, lotion, razors, mouthwash and more. Call ahead to double check what they offer and then you can decide on what to bring and what to leave at home.

HAIRSTYLING TOOLS
Same deal as the toiletries – Call ahead to be sure the hotel has them, and if the answer is yes, leave your heavy hair dryer at home!

SNACKS AND WINE
We all want our snacks and wine and sometimes it can be a bit pricey when you’re traveling, but unless you’re going to a remote island, just visit the local grocery store – done and dusted.

Do you want to visit the Mother City for your big trip? Get to and from Cape Town International Airport quickly and easily with Airport Shuttle! To book your shuttle use our easy online booking system - 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.

5 Tips to make the most of your Trip to Cape Town

Are you coming to Cape Town for a quick trip with the family or are you planning on spending some time in the beautiful Mother City? Whatever your plans may be, it is best to know what to expect so you can make the most of your time without any hiccups.

Here are 5 tips to ensure that you leave wanting to come back for more…

1. Weather. During the summer months in Cape Town, the weather can be hot and dry, the days can go on for 11 hours and the wind will almost blow you off your feet! Before you plan your activities in Cape Town always check the weather as well as the wind strength in the mornings so you can make the most out of your day. Stay away from the beach if it is too windy and rather choose an indoor activity.

2. Money & Safety. Foreign exchange is available all around Cape Town, but no matter where you are always use your common sense – never ask a stranger to help you at an ATM, do not flash your money around and rather put away your fancy jewellery and devices.

When it comes to being safe, be on the lookout for suspicious people and NEVER walk around alone in the city, especially if you do not know your way around. If you are ever in an emergency situation, please do not hesitate to call the Cape Town emergency numbers for assistance.

3. Nightlife. As soon as the sun goes down, the city of Cape Town comes alive. There are a range of fun things to do after dark – amazing restaurants, bars, clubs and so much more!  If you plan on enjoying the nightlife make sure you know the rules so you do not get in trouble and always remember to NEVER leave your drink unattended. Here are the top places to party in Cape Town!

4. Transportation. There are plenty of different ways to get around in the Mother City – if you’re looking for an affordable, reliable shuttle to or from Cape Town International Airport, do not hesitate to call Airport Shuttle! Other methods of transport include the MyCiTi bus, Uber, taxi cab, train or on foot!

5. Table Mountain. One of the most famous attractions in Cape Town is obviously Table Mountain, but always be careful and follow these precautions so you do not run into problems:

- Do not visit the mountain if the weather is bad
- Never hike up the mountain alone and do not attempt difficult routes without a qualified guide
- Always tell someone where you are going if you are planning on visiting the mountain
- Wear comfortable shoes, bring a cell phone, food, sunblock and lots of water
- Do not wander off – stick to popular paths
- Baboons can be dangerous so do not ever try to feed them or approach them

Cape Town is a beautiful city alive with an array of activities and amazing things to see, make sure you are well prepared and familiar with these tips so you can have a great trip in Cape Town.

Don't forget to contact Airport Shuttle for a reliable, speedy transfer to and from Cape Town International Airport.