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What were the international spots South Africans spent their hard-earned cash on this year? We spoke to Flight Centre to find out the five most popular places.
5. New York City
The birth place of hip-hop. The Big Apple never sleeps, just ask the #Trending editors who paid this iconic city a visit earlier this year. New York is a dream destination for many and has been a top travel spot year after year.
4. Paris
The City of Love has a rich history of arts and culture, not to mention a cityscape that will leave you weak at the knees.
“A firm favourite for travellers to Europe, this magical city is high up on most travellers’ bucket lists, and for good reason,” says Flight Centre.
3. Mauritius
This slice of paradise is only four hours away, and has remained a popular destination for both honeymooners and families.
2. Phuket
Thailand happens to be one of the cheapest destinations to visit, which is why it’s always on the list. It’s a scenic escape where you can visit islands that are home to high-end seaside resorts, spas and restaurants.
1. London
Year after year, the city of London remains at the top of South African lists. Despite a spike in terror attacks, this year was no different.
While a big business destination, the real draw card is its culture, history, edgy fashion, food, music and shopping scene.
Up-and-comers:
Apart from the top five, South Africans have also been shelling out on Sri Lanka, Bali, the Seychelles, the Maldives, the United Arab Emirates and Egypt. Flight Centre said in May: “South Africans love Mauritius, Thailand and Australia, and may have travelled there repeatedly, but now they’re looking for something different. That’s where these destinations come in.”
Endangered destinations:
You’re going to start hearing of destinations that you need to go to “before it’s too late”. It’s the depressing reality of a world that is rapidly changing owing to global warming. The Maldives is sinking into the Indian Ocean. About a third of the Great Barrier Reef’s colourful coral has been damaged. If you’ve dreamed of seeing the glaciers in Iceland, Greenland and the Arctics, you should get moving because they’re melting. Sigh.
