Bryte Insurance Company Limited recently released its inaugural Travel Index Report which confirmed that South Africans are globetrotting adventurers.
Whether for a family vacation, a solo adventure, a romantic getaway or business-related travel, an “awe!” or “heita!” are commonplace from Europe to the sunny island beaches of Mauritius.
The report, compiled by one of the biggest travel insurers in South Africa, states that the UK is South Africa’s favourite tourist destination. This was inevitable due to our previous links through the commonwealth with London also being one of the world’s most important business destinations. Mauritius, USA, Italy, Thailand, France, Australia, Germany, Netherlands and Spain were among other top destinations.
Over the past decade, Travel customers who used Bryte Travel Insurance chose Zanzibar, Namibia, Mozambique and Botswana as their African destinations of choice.
The report also notes that South Africans consistently chose Thailand as one of their favourite destinations. Other popular Asian destinations included India, Indonesia, China and Vietnam.
‘Bryte’s travel data shows South Africans commonly travel via major air hubs with Qatar Airways and Emirates being the customers’ airlines of choice. The UAE was also a popular destination for South African travellers but just missed out on the top 10.’
‘Dubai International Airport has been the busiest airport in the world for international passengers for over half a decade. South African travel choices also followed the trend, with a significant proportion of travellers taking connecting flights towards other destinations.’
Aviation experts say this could be because connecting flights are cheaper than flying direct, Dubai has extensive route coverage, and the opportunity to stock up on high-end luxury brands at the famous DXB duty-free stores could also play a factor.
What’s on a typical South African globetrotters itinerary?:
Although South Africa has some of the most amazing beaches and coastlines, a Picodi Analysis Team survey shows that visiting the beach is the number one activity for South Africans on holiday.
This is followed by our naturally inquisitive nature which makes us suckers for explorations and discovery of new sights, experiences and cultures.
‘Sightseeing is the second most popular activity, and a large majority of respondents (82%) prefer exploring new places rather than revisiting old favourites,’ the report read.
The report also focuses on the more serious realities of travel.
Lost baggage remains one of the most prevalent reasons for claims, particularly for South Africans travelling to/in the USA.
Bryte’s head of travel, Anrieth Symons, said, ‘While travel has become more prevalent over the past decade, people are choosing to travel via key hubs like Dubai International Airport. More connecting flights means a greater chance of baggage-related losses.’
You can read the full Travel Index Report here.
Picture: Getaway Gallery
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