Travel It’s time to pack your bags and fly!

WITH December just around the corner, holiday plans are well under way, with Mauritius, India, Phuket, the Far East and Bali among the favourite destinations for South African travellers.

Local travel agents say South Africans are keen on travelling abroad even though plane crashes this year resulted in more than 700 deaths.

The trend this year is “all-inclusive, relaxing, hassle-free” vacations, said Mogie Naidu, the manager of MK Bobby Naidoo Travel Agency.

“Travel and tour costs depend on various factors, such as destination, the standard of accommodation offered, tour options, duration and the season.

“A seven-day package to Thailand starts at R10 500 per person and an eight-day stay in Mauritius costs from R13 000.

“School holidays are generally busy periods, but many travellers also take advantage of long weekends that offer a quick break from their normal routine,” said Naidu.

The weakening rand, she added, was of concern to travellers.

Trips to the US, Canada and Europe are affected the most.

Local travel is also becoming more popular for families and young people because it is cheaper and there are so many options available.

Popular overseas destinations for December are India, the Far East and the US.

Many people travel to Australia, New Zealand and Britain to be with family.

“Thanks to the opening of many new and exciting destinations, the desire for travel is growing, in spite of currency volatility and visa restrictions,” said Naidu.

Fouad Caunhye, Emirates Southern Africa regional manager, said travellers prefer to visit seaside locations such as Mauritius, Phuket, Maldives, Bali and Indonesia in December.

In the South African autumn, some travellers choose Vietnam as their destination.

Price is always a determining factor.

“Many affluent travellers prefer sea cruises, whereas the more adventurous go to northern India.

“A holiday to Dubai for three nights could range from R10 000 to R25 000 per person.

“In the past, all holidays abroad were expensive, but now there are a range of options.

“The rand has not been at its best, which means that South Africans will consider visiting countries where they get good value for money, such as Thailand and some other parts of Asia,” said Caunhye.

“South Africans love travelling and always look for the best deals available.

“North African countries are not for every South African tourist, but Morocco and Tunisia have become more popular in recent times.”

Nazir Malek, the CEO of Malek Travel and Tours, said the best spots for South Africans to travel to in December are Singapore, Thailand, India and Zanzibar, because of the pleasant climate.

He added that for a family of four — parents and two children — a trip to Mauritius will cost R40 000 for five nights, including accommodation.

“Phuket packages would be from R35 000 upwards, India from R45 000, China from R60 000, Dubai from R60 000, Turkey from R40 000 and Paris from R60 000.

“Vacation season is at its peak during school holidays for families, and midDecember for couples and singles.

“Cape Town is the most popular local destination.

“The least popular destinations among South African tourists are other African countries,” said Malek.