Here is the Flight Centre team’s four beloved and bestselling international beach destinations that are currently welcoming South African travellers.
1. Thailand
Whether you’re planning a fun-filled family vacation or a loved-up couples’ getaway, there are many reasons why Thailand should be at the top of your wish list. Along with stunning beaches, you’ll also have the chance to immerse yourself in culture, learning all about Thai rituals and beliefs, all while sampling delicious cuisine and uncovering the country’s colourful history.
What to do?
The options are practically endless, and it all depends on what type of holidaymaker you are.
- Embark on a street food tour
- Go island hopping
- Explore landmarks, such as the White Temple and the Grand Palace
When to go?
Thailand is a year-round destination. However, most will agree that the ‘best’ weather makes its presence known between November and April each year. You can expect relatively consistent temperatures of 30 – 34 degrees Celsius during this time.
Need-to-know?
Thailand’s borders have been re-opened to fully vaccinated South Africans as of 8 October 2021 as part of the country’s Sandbox programme. Essentially, this means that travellers will be allowed to access a single island (Phuket, Surat Thani, Phang-Nga, and Krabi) for a week, following which they will be granted the freedom to travel anywhere else in the country. Upon arrival, travellers will be required to submit to a mandatory COVID-19 RT-PCR test and wait at their hotel room for the test results to be processed.
Proof of negative COVID PCR tests results, a certificate of entry, proof of vaccination, proof of accommodation booking, and proof of COVID-19 testing booking are all mandatory.
2. Mauritius
It’s arguably the ‘go-to’ beach holiday for South Africans.
What to do?
If you can manage to pull yourself away from the sunlounger, it’s a great idea to:
- Visit China Town and Champs de Mars – one of the world’s oldest horse racing tracks
- Scope out the street and graffiti art in Port Louis.
When to go?
Its idyllic sub-tropical climate means that a beach holiday in Mauritius is on the cards practically any time of the year. Book during shoulder season, which extends from April – November, if you’d like a quieter getaway, though. During this time, you’ll be looking at average daily highs of 28 – 29 degrees Celsius.
Need-to-know?
Much to many jet-setters’ delight, Mauritius followed through on plans to re-open its borders to international visitors on 1 October 2021, allowing full freedom of movement for fully-vaccinated travellers entering from South Africa. A COVID PCR test is mandatory on arrival, on day 5 of your holiday, as well as prior to your departure. Proof of vaccination and health insurance are also mandatory.
3. Zanzibar
Think colourful coral reefs, a myriad of marine life, and palm-fringed beaches and you’ll have a pretty decent picture of what to expect from a beach holiday in Zanzibar. It’s also a popular destination choice amongst history buffs and culture vultures.
What to do?
- Engage all your senses on a spice tour
- Adventure through the old quarter in UNESCO heritage Stone Town
- Feast at a trendy rooftop restaurant with unforgettable views
When to go?
Don’t let rain put a damper on your getaway! It’s best to visit any time during July and September or November and December, with temperatures varying from 29 – 31 degrees Celsius.
Need-to-know?
Zanzibar has been open to South African visitors for some time now. Travellers must present proof of a negative COVID-19 PCR test, conducted no more than 96 hours before arrival in Tanzania, as well as submit to a COVID-19 rapid test on arrival (at the traveller’s own expense) to gain entry. It’s also compulsory to fill in an online health surveillance form up to 24 hours before arrival.
4. Maldives
Shimmering aquamarine waters, year-round blue skies and an abundance of water sports – there’s no doubt as to why the Maldives has such a special place in the hearts of many.
What to do?
- Watersports galore - Parasailing, fun-tubing, snorkelling, water flying, and much more
- A walking tour of Male
- Wining and dining at an underwater restaurant
- A luxury yacht cruise
When to go?
Book your holiday between the months of November and April to ensure the best possible weather, where temperatures soar between 30 – 32 degrees Celsius.
Need-to-know?
Fully-vaccinated South Africans can roam freely throughout the Maldives. However, all visitors must take a COVID-19 PCR test no more than 96 hours prior to arrival, as well as supply proof of vaccination and accommodation booking. Further to this, it’s compulsory to complete a health declaration up to 24 hours before departure to the Maldives through the IMUGA portal .
