Let’s face it, it’s always time for a holiday! It seems like forever since the last time you got away right? If you believe it’s difficult to travel more regularly, think again.
You may be letting these common travel misconceptions tie you down. Let’s look at some of the most common travel myths and debunk them one by one.
You Need a visa to Travel Abroad
South African passport holders can travel to over 100 different countries in the world, without having to apply for a visa in advance. Some of these offer visa-on-arrival, some don’t require one at all.
Avoid the tedious and costly visa application process by putting one of these top destinations on your bucket list:
-
- The Republic of Ireland
- All South America except Colombia, Suriname and French Guiana.
- Guatemala
- Kenya
- All African countries below the equator except the DRC and Republic of the Congo
- Indonesia
- Malaysia
- Thailand
- Tunisia
- Senegal
- Russia
Visa regulations fluctuate regularly, so check with a reputable travel agent before you book your flights and jet off on your international escape.
On another topic, why travel internationally when you can explore South Africa’s amazing destinations. Domestic travel is quick and easy. Cheap flights to Cape Town, Johannesburg and Durban are easy to come by on most of the leading SA Airlines and will set you up for exploring your own world in one country.
Low cost airlines like Kulula and Mango have some great specials and cheap domestic flights.
Travel is Expensive
If you want to stay in the world’s finest hotels and fly first class wherever you go, travel can be very costly.
By shopping around for last-minute discounts, out of season specials and cheap flights, you can set up a budget and travel within your means. A little research and a lot of savvy can get you going places.
Travel Can be Dangerous
Crossing the road can be dangerous, but that doesn’t stop you does it. Media reports on security issues in other countries can be sensationalised. Do some of your own research to find out which areas are truly risky and what type of safety precautions you should take while you are there.
It is very rare for domestic unrest to extend to tourists in any country of the world. Be sensible in your travels and you’ll have no safety issues wherever you go.
Everyone Speaks English
English may be one of the official languages in most countries, but Chinese and Spanish are the most widely spoken languages in the world.
If you are travelling to somewhere outside of your homeland it is courteous and convenient to learn a few important phrases in the language of your hosts.
Incidentally, isiZulu is the most common first-language in South Africa, so it won’t harm to brush up your skills a little beyond ‘’Sawubona’’ before you travel domestically.
Credit Cards are Accepted Everywhere
Even in the digital age, cash is still king. Remote destinations may not have the facilities for credit card transactions or ATMs. Sort out your foreign currency before you leave the airport on arrival and keep some cash on you wherever you go abroad.
Travel Insurance is a Waste
It is never okay to travel internationally without travel insurance.
Things happen. These are the top reasons why you need to be insured when travelling abroad:
-
- Paying for medical assistance in another country is expensive
- You will be covered for losses or theft of valuable items during your adventures
- If you must cut your holiday short for any reason, travel insurance will cover the costs of your
cancellation fees or deposits forfeited - You can replace necessities if your baggage goes astray
Travel insurance gives you the peace of mind to enjoy your break to the fullest, don’t leave home without it.
Travelling Alone is a Bad Idea
Solo travel can be just what you need to escape from it all. It frees you up to do as you please, when you want and can provide opportunities for meeting other single travellers along the way.
Solo travel is one of the fastest-growing trends on the international hospitality scene.
Start Planning Now
Break free from unfounded misconceptions and start planning your travels right away. It’s easy to book cheap flights and accommodation with SA Airlines. The rest is up to you.