Durban direct flights

Durban set for more direct flights

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The city of Durban is seen by the provincial government to be advantageously placed to grow tourism and build business markets within the Southern Africa region. The increase in number of flights between Durban’s King Shaka International airport and Harare is part of a strategic plan to target potential tourism markets that lie within a few hours flight away.

The resultant success of the direct travel flight routes between Durban and Harare has sparked optimism that other direct routes into neighbouring countries from the coastal eastern city of Durban may prove to be equally successful. The flight routes which were only introduced in November 2012 have already reached 72% capacity. The vantage and key point of success, notes the provincial department, is the city’s relative easy distance of being just a ‘few hours of flight away’.

Michael Mabuyakhulu, the Economic Development and Tourism MEC explains, “Our intention is to foster warm relations amongst key role-players and drivers of, particularly, trade and tourism in the marketplaces of both South Africa and Zimbabwe… and unlocking the potential of this African market as we work to create new investment, business and tourism opportunities and partnerships between us.”

The airline, SA Express, launched the introduction of newly branded aircraft, and has elected to be based at the Dube Tradeport. Future plans partnered with Dube Tradeport are aimed at targeting key markets in South Africa’s neighbours. This would be unraveled through intensive trade and business promotions as well as leisure travel and investment opportunities.

A five year strategy has been developed to make maximum use of Durban’s King Shaka International’s aptly placed location and capacity to attract and increase the number of carriers landing there. Dube TradePort Corporation’s chief executive officer, Saxen van Coller, said: We are working to significantly increase direct regional and international air services to and from Durban in an effort to transform this region into South Africa’s primary alternative gateway.

KwaZulu/Natal has been earmarked as South Africa’s alternative primary gateway based on its prime location. Recent global trends indicate that almost eighty percent of incoming visitors to South Africa originate from regions that require a flight range of a four hour flying radius.

“We recognise that KZN has a unique offering for the benefit of such markets,” points out Tourism KZN chief executive Ndabo Khoza, “We intend to sell the beach experience, creating a platform for the benefit of new African tourists to Durban and KZN.”

 

 

Activities in Johannesburg

Top 10 things tourists should not miss in Johannesburg

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Johannesburg presents a world-in-one for tourists wishing to sample and savour the delectable delights of this pulsating hub of electrifying energy. Where else in Africa can one find a colourful explosion of culture, cuisine, entertainment, activities for the adrenaline addicted, wildlife and a history far from bland all in one spot? Locals lovingly refer to it as the City of Gold, and indeed, it is a treasure house just waiting to be explored.

1. Nelson Mandela National Museum
The first democratic president of South Africa and Nobel Peace Prize Laureate, Nelson Mandela’s house in Soweto is a worthy worthwhile point of interest.

2. Gold Reef City
This world renowned theme park should be on every tourist’s itinerary list. A myriad of thrilling adrenaline adventures await the whole family. In addition to the heart stopping amusement park rides, Gold Reef City houses a casino and a reproduction of a mining town which highlights a tour down a mine shaft.

3. Walter Sisulu National Botanical Gardens
Framed picturesquely against the Witpoortjie waterfall, this stunning garden boasts 300 hectares of landscaped and natural veld areas.

4. Museum Africa
This museum of note displays exhibits and collections which focus particularly on local African cultures, history and archaeology. A must see is the impressive rock art collection. Local artists are celebrated as well as Pre-Raphaelite and Impressionist paintings.

5. Hector Peterson Memorial and Museum
This memorial has become a symbol of resistance against the apartheid regime and a worthy tribute to Hector Peterson, the 12 year old boy shot by the police on 16 June during the 1976 student uprisings. On display are photographic exhibits which detail the events of that day.

6. Oriental Plaza
Regarded as the Jewel of the shopping price Mecca of South Africa, the Oriental Plaza is a real treat for tourists who are ardent bargain-shoppers. Over 360 shops with the best selection of designer wear of both local and international brand Houses are located here. The food catered for by the restaurants tempts palates that enjoy ethnic and spicy cuisine.

7. Carlton Centre Observation Deck
The Top of Africa observation deck situated on the 50th floor of the Carlton Centre high rise offers scintillating views of Johannesburg.

8. Cradle of Humankind World Heritage Site
One of South Africa’s eight World Heritage sites and home to about 40% of the world’s human ancestor fossils. 53 000 hectares protects a wide range of flora and fauna.

9. Lion Park
Admire the king of the jungle from the safety and comfort from your own car with the option of a hands-on experience with lion cubs. The park is home to just over 80 lions as well as other species of wildlife. Cheetahs, zebra, antelope, wild dogs giraffes are just some of the animals that can be seen.

10. Montecasino
Lauded as the entertainment complex in Johannesburg, it is simply s must-see for every visitor. A movie theatre, bird sanctuary, tenpin bowling, a number of theatres, casino and a whole host of restaurants, coffee shops and a musical fountain to delight both the young and old.

Glastonbury Festival

7 Music festivals to attend in the UK this Summer

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Nothing characterizes summer time like a music festival which has become part of the fabric of British society in the summer. The UK hosts a number of music festivals over the summer period that draws thousands from across the globe. What is spectacular about these music festivals is that they cover a wide range of music genres to accommodate for all types of taste from jazz to dance to pop, blues and folk.

1.    Glastonbury
The most world famous music festival held in the UK would be Glastonbury. Thousands of music performances are held across fifty venues. There is something for everyone from cabaret, theatre, poetry recitals and green crafts. Notable top class performers include U2, Coldplay and Beyonce.

2.    T in the Park
The venue for this music festival is in Kinross, Scotland. Held for the last 15 years, this music summer festival is considered the widest and nosiest festival in Britain and Scotland’s major music festival. Top names in music in attendance include Arctic Monkeys, Beyonce and the legendary Tom Jones. Apart from the star attraction- music – festival devotees can enjoy a fairground, organic food, bars and browse around numerous stalls.

3.    O2 Wireless festival
Staged in central London’s Hyde Park, O2 Wireless festival runs into its seventh year. The festival is celebrated over three days and showcases top talent in the best bands and DJs. Award winning musical talent like the Black Eyed Peas, Bruno Mars and David Guetta constitute the headline acts. Also to be enjoyed by festival goers is the impressive beer garden, food stalls and interactive games.

4.    At Scarborough’s Acoustic Gathering festival
This is a free music festival held in Peasholm Park which is held on the last Sunday in September to mark the end of summer. The festival has been held since 2006 with the aim of showcasing local musicians along with top national and international stars. Performers are rowed onto a stage which is situated at the centre of a lake.

5.    Leeds and Reading festival
Towards the end of the music summer festival line up is the Leeds and Reading festival. Hosted in the city of Leeds, West Yorkshire and Reading, Berkshire this music festival is the UK’s leading rock, alternative and indie festivals. A long history is attached to these festivals stretching all the way back to 1961. Both the festivals are held simultaneously across the two cities. Star studded names like My Chemical Romance and The Streets perform at both locations.

6.    Bestival
Newport, Isle of Wight hosts the Bestival music festival. On the music festival circuit, Bestival is considered more of a philosophy than a festival. This is an award winning boutique festival spanning four days. Festival fans are enticed by the eclectic mix of world class music. The festival celebrates the likes of Groove Armada, The Cure and PJ Harvey.

7.    Basingstoke Live
Another one of the UK’s free music festivals held in War Memorial Park, Basingstoke. A new addition to the summer music festival circuit, presents over a hundred events for the festival goer to delight in. Over 30 venues are part of the festival offering music, drama, dance, film and plenty more. Local talent is celebrated as well as community spirit.
In 2010 Basingstoke Live recorded a record 30 000 attendance.

R40 off your next flight with Easy Travel

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Easy Travel has twenty R40 off voucher codes to give away.
These voucher codes can be used at https://www.easytravel.co.za/flights

Simply enter one of the voucher codes at check out.

Simply share by social media to unlock the voucher codes.

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Vouchers are valid until 30.09.13

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Visit London in Summer

Top Things to Do in London this Summer

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London is arguably the world’s number 1 top tourist destination. It is not surprising at the city boasts plenty of top attractions for the tourist to feast their eyes on. This cosmopolitan capital offers so much for visitors. With a history of over 2000 years, London at heart remains astonishingly youthful and exuberant.

A visit to London reveals exceptional treasures for the tourist to savour all year round, but none more special than during the sizzling season of summer. No list can be comprehensive enough to detail all the gems in London’s trove of tourist treasures.

There are many ways to experience London to tantalise adventure for all tastes and ages from the London Bicycle Tours, river cruises and open hop-on-and-off bus tours.

London Zoo 
Said to be the oldest scientific zoo in the world, London Zoo is an ideal attraction for the whole family to enjoy. Since 1828 the zoo has been facilitating the study of animals. During the summer, the zoo hosts many thrilling exhibitions throughout the day overseen by leading curators. Some of these include bird displays as well as gorilla feedings.

Tower of London 
One of the most popular tourist attractions in the city is the iconic Tower of London. A must see for every tourist is a visit back in time to tales of historical drama, the Crown Jewels and the Royal Armouries.

St Paul’s Cathedral
Regarded as the spiritual hub of London, a visit to St Paul’s Cathedral should be on every tourist’s list of things-to-do. Apart from the fact that the burial chamber is the resting place of some of Britain’s more famous personalities – John Donne, Sir Christopher Wren, Horatio Nelson and the Duke of Wellington, lofty St Paul’s Cathedral affords some of the most spectacular views of the city.

Hampton Court Palace
A real treat for palace-loving enthusiasts is a call to Hampton Court Palace, once the home of King Henry VIII. London may boast its fair share of palaces, but what sets this legendary landmark apart from the rest are the visual displays of breathtaking gardens and a world celebrated hedge maze.

Thames River Cruise
Lined along the banks of the Thames River are visual symbols of London almost anyone in the world can identify: Big Ben, the Houses of Parliament, MI5, Canary Wharf. The waterway intertwines through the city making a river cruise the ultimate experience in witnessing London.

Buckingham Palace
No visit to London can be complete without a sighting of the world renowned Buckingham Palace. A visit here during the summer time is made all the more special as the doors are open to the public. The interiors and paintings on display in royal households are unrivalled and are a sight to feast one’s eyes on.

The London Eye
A relatively new addition to the arsenal of attractions London has to offer. A contribution to London’s millennium celebrations this structure is a giant observation wheel presents scintillating aerial views of the city.

View another 200 things to do in London

Travelling with children

12 Essential items needed when travelling with small children

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Travelling with small children may not be as difficult as you might imagine. A little time spent preparing, planning and organizing and you can enjoy a successful holiday with the happy and comfortable kids. Being unprepared spells stressed out parents and equally stressed out children.

1. Food to snack on
Snacks keep children nourished as well as entertained. Choose your child’s favourite snacks, the healthier the guilt free and better. Ideally these the kids can munch on themselves without too much of a mess. Dried fruit, raisons, pretzels, stick cheeses and cereal bars. On international travel, there may be laws governing bringing in of food items in some countries.

2. Nappies/diapers/pull-ups
These can be bought practically everywhere in the world. It is important, however, to carry enough for the first day or two of your journey. This is helpful in reducing luggage space.

3. Small first-aid kit
First-aid kits should comprise of pain reliever, bandages, antibacterial ointment, a thermometer, antihistamines, cough medicine, antiseptic cream, bug repellent and relief, tweezers, paracetamol, anti-diarrohea tablets and sunscreen.

4. A change of clothing
When travelling with small children a change of clothing is essential. In the event of any mishap ending in messed clothes which is a likely event, you are safe in the knowledge that you have spare until you reach your destination.

5. Wet wipes
Wet wipes are a mother’s best friend and come in handy to refresh faces or clean hands and when changing nappies.

6. Activity bag of favourite things
Included in here could be favourite music or story cd’s. Colouring and reading books, board games and finger puppets keep kids well entertained as well. Another idea suggests experts, is to introduce a few new toys too, they add to the novelty of the journey.

7. Ziplock bags
These are amazing essential versatile items useful in most non-life threatening emergencies and one can never have enough of them. They can double up as storage bags for food, small toys, and toiletries as well as for many other objects. Light weight and hardly take up any space at all, ziplock bags earn their place on the list of essential travel items.

8. Travel adaptors
On carrying electrical items on international travel, travel adaptors

9. An umbrella
Even if you’re travelling to a sunny and hot destination, an umbrella is useful in keeping your children out of the harmful rays of the sun and prevents sunburn. Sunglassess and a hat are a good idea too.

10. Comfortable weather-proof shoes
Be prepared for walking by taking along comfortable shoes. Sometimes you may experience unexpected downpours.

11. Disinfecting hand gel
These are great when no water is available and clean hands are a prerequisite against the spreading of germs.

12. Collapsible stroller

Strollers come in very handy when having to walk long distances with mall, tired children. The collapsible variety is a space-saver and can easily be checked in or stored away in the overhead compartment.

10 things to do in Cape Town

Top 10 things to do in Cape Town in Winter

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Cape Town in winter offers a magical myriad of indoor and outdoor attractions for both local and international visitors. Discover Cape Town and witness the city showcasing its unique culture and heritage in the arts, food and wine attractions.

1. Winter wining and dining
Whet your appetite at some of the most exquisite eateries in Cape Town. The Mother City boasts plenty of fine dining establishments where one can savour sumptuous meals in multiple course set menus. Food lovers are spoilt for choice with dishes ranging from Cape Malay inspirations to haute cuisine.

2. Shopping
Shopping enthusiasts are presented with an array of shopping destinations housed comfortably with the city of Cape Town. The premier V&A Waterfront, Cavendish Square and Canal Walk are just some the shopping malls offering unrivalled adventures to shopping connoisseurs of local and international fashion. The V&A Waterfront draws in huge numbers and is celebrated as an ultimate entertainment venue housing theatres, craft markets, specialty shops and pubs.

3. Theatre
World-class theatrical performances can be enjoyed at the Artscape, the Baxter and Masque Theatres and the Theatre-on-the-Bay. From ballet to drama productions to comedy shows there is something to suit every taste.

4. Winter music festivals
Pencil in a music festival whilst in Cape Town. The Cape Town International Jazz festival is a musical extravaganza of note. The fourth largest Jazz festival in the world highlights the talents of 30 international and local acts

5. Two Oceans Aquarium
Explore South Africa’s largest aquarium and savour the enchanting exhibits of aquatic life. The Two Oceans Aquarium promises to delight both the young and old alike. This popular tourist venue displays in excess of 3 000 marine life forms from the Indian and Atlantic Oceans.

6. Indoor Markets
A leisurely amble around the numerous indoor markets is a perfect introduction to the colourful culture and unique identity of Cape Town. Sample the local cuisine or soak up the buzzying atmosphere of Hout Bay’s Bay Market or V&A Waterfronts’s Market on the Wharf.

7. Historic Museums
Robben Island is synonymous with exile, isolation and imprisonment; this now world renowned museum located only 12 kilometres from Cape Town was where freedom fighter and former South African president Nelson Mandela spent 27 years of his life fighting oppression.

8. Kirstenbosch Botantical Gardens
This top tourist attraction situated against the eastern slopes of Table Mountain is celebrated the world over for the astounding beauty and diversity of Cape flora it is home to. Indigenous South African plants are grown exclusively in the 528 hectare estate.

9. The Ice Station
Labelled as a premier South African ice rink, The Ice Station provides experienced and novice ice skaters with plenty of pleasure-filled ice-scapades. Part of the exciting line-up of events held by The Ice Station is ice hockey games and figure-skating competitions.

10. Visit a wine farm
Cape Town is famed for its wine estates and excellent wine. A visit to one in Constantia, Stellenbosch, Paarl or any of the other wine farms is highly recommended and should be included on every visitor’s itinerary.

30 more things to do in Cape Town

 

Airbus A350

Airbus A350’s maiden flight

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The Airbus A350’s maiden flight in Toulouse marked a milestone in the travel and aviation industries respectively. The successful four-hour flight was crewed by former fighter pilots – two British and French. On board the aircraft were heavy loads of test equipment.

The design and launch of this next-generation Airbus 350 is set to challenge and cut down the American Boeing’s 787 Dreamliner’s hold on the lucrative long-haul market for wide-body aircraft. The A350 sports two impressive Rolls-Royce XWB Trent engines. These highly efficient engines were built exclusively for the A350 and is said to be the “world’s most efficient” engines, each powering out 84,000 lb of thrust.

Wherein then lays the secret to the A350 airbus? Almost three-quarters of the aircraft casing are made up of lightweight carbon-fibre designed to economize on jet fuel. The combination of light weight body, super efficient engine and new aerodynamics allows for the A350 to burn up to 25% less fuel as compared to the Dreamliner. This economy would reduce the cost of long-haul flights up to as much as half the cost.

The aircraft has been in development phase for eight years which is approximated to have cost $15 billion. The A350 will be available in three variants with seating capacities ranging from 270 to 350 passengers in three class layouts.

The A350’s entry into service is scheduled for the latter part of 2014. This is after a delay of about 18 months. Much of the delay is due to the advanced changes in technology and materials. Both the manufacturers of the A350 and the Boeing have used lightweight carbon fibre reinforced plastic instead of the traditional aluminum alloy. The wings of the A350 is said to be the largest for a wide-body aircraft.

Chief executive of EADS, the parent body of Airbus, expressed optimism that the A350 airbus would be delivered to Qatar Airways towards the later part of 2014. The only challenges the parent company foresees is the acquiring of certification and the final run in production stage.

Apart from the launch customer, Qatar Airways which is due to receive 80 of all three variants of A350’s, other customers in line for the A350 include: British Airways and Hong Kong’s Cathay Pacific. Airbus has already seen over 600 orders for the A350 which speaks of confidence in the new entrant in the long-haul wide-body aircraft market.

Thousands of Airbus employees and aviation devotees who had gathered to witness the landmark flight greeted the touchdown of the A350’s maiden flight with jubilant cheers. The success of the A350’s faultless maiden test flight is revealed in the words of Airbus’s chief test pilot, Peter Chandler, who after piloting the prototype aircraft said: “It just seemed really happy in the air,” and further added, “all the things we were testing had no major issues at all.”

Ways To Eliminate Stress And Make Travel A Breeze

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Travel, even for business, is a pleasurable activity. However, there are certain circumstances that can ruin your traveling adventure, and spending too much money is one of these. This article will address a few ways you can help to minimize travel expenses.

TIP! You must plan ahead if you are going to fly. It can take a lot of time to reach an airport that is located in a major city, because of location and traffic.

Keep a photo of your children on you at all times, in case they become lost. Losing a child is traumatic for any parent. Sometimes these kinds of things happen. Easy access to a photograph of the child can facilitate any necessary search efforts in they get lost.

TIP! If traveling with children, keep a recent, color picture of them with you at all times, just case they become lost. Even the thought of losing your child is one of the most terrifying experiences you can have.

If you have known food allergies, be very careful about food when traveling in foreign countries. If you do have an allergy, you will need to have a good handle on the language of the country you are eating in. This way you can be sure to alert wait staff of your allergies to specific foods and, in the worst case scenario, be able to inform medical professionals of your condition.

TIP! Do not hope that an airline will make you as comfortable as necessary on a flight. Provide your own blanket and pillow if you know that you will have a requirement for them, your own headphones too.

Do not hope that an airline will make you as comfortable as necessary on a flight. Make sure you bring along a blanket, pillow and if you will use them, headphones. Perhaps you should bring some snacks if it is allowed.

TIP! Try to purchase tickets to amusement parks in advance so that you could print them out. Although you may pay a service fee for this option, it is worth it to bypass long lines for entrance to the park.

Clothespins can be a useful item while traveling. Clothespins are not a typical travel item for many people, but should be reconsidered given their usefulness and versatility.

TIP! Take a couple of clothespins with you when you travel. While you might not think of them immediately, clothespins can perform many functions.

Hit the gym before you board your flight. A long flight can be extremely boring. Not to mention the effects sitting for long time can have on your body. Stretching or working out before taking a flight can help reduce soreness.

TIP! Before boarding your flight, get a quick workout in. It’s boring having to sit through a long flight.

Now that you know how to travel smart, you’re ready for smooth sailing. You will be much happier at your destination when you realize that you saved a lot of money without losing the enjoyment.

TIP! When you are traveling, it is important to remember to be aware of your vital belongings at all times. Keep your purse tucked under your arm.

The Best Travel Tips To Read Before You Leave

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Most people will travel to some place far from home at least once in their lives. There is always more to learn about travel, no matter how many times you have done it. In the following article, you are going to be given important advice about travel that you may need to use one day.

TIP! Do not bring anything valuable that you will not need. The more you take with you, the higher your chances of losing the items.

When traveling by air, you need to plan ahead. Many airports are located in major cities, and reaching them in congested traffic can be difficult and time consuming. Pack your bags, including your carry-on, before you go to bed. Don’t wait until the last minute to prepare for your flight. There is little else that could be worse than not making your flight.

TIP! Create a list of what needs to be packed. Between one week and three months before you leave for a trip, sit down and write down every item you are going to take with you.

Always carry an updated color photo of your child with you. This will come in handy if they are ever lost. Losing your child sounds absolutely horrifying and you probably do not even want to think about it. With that said, it is best to be prepared for worst case scenarios. Having a photo on you to share with authorities could mean the difference in whether or not your child is found quickly.

TIP! Keep a photo of your children on you at all times, in case they become lost. Losing your child can be a scary prospect.

Be aware of certain food allergies when going to a foreign country in order to avoid bad liaisons. Most especially if you have severe reactions to foods, you need to become somewhat fluent in the food related words of the native language. This will enable you to tell your staff about your allergies and in times of emergency, you will be able to tell medical professionals about your condition.

TIP! Get a good workout in before leaving on a flight. This will help you avoid the tediousness of long flights.

It is important to remember that almost everyone wants to get out there and travel; if your time hasn’t come yet, it will. That is why it is crucial to learn all you can about traveling so you are prepared for your next trip! This article will help you have a stress free travel experience.

TIP! Always go out of your way to tip any bell station and housekeeper appropriately. For these services, a good tip for housekeeping would be from $2-$5 per day, and $1 per bag of luggage.