Want to travel? Look no further than Zanzibar and the Maldives
South Africa faces more travel restrictions than any other country in the world. Travel to approximately 120 countries is either completely prohibited or strictly limited to emergency exemptions in line with the global Covid-19 pandemic.
Despite a reprieve in South Africa’s infection rate, and with the vaccine rollout underway, key areas such as North America, Europe and Asia remain largely off-limits.
Joanne Adolphe, CEO of Thompsons Holidays says the Covid lock-downs have resulted in a roller-coaster ride over the past few months with only local travel available, followed by the partial opening up of over-border travel. Airlines have cancelled flights and many countries have closed their borders to nationalities regarded as high risk. “In the future, we can expect both airlines and countries to demand negative Covid tests and travel passports indicating that satisfactory inoculations are in place.
So, where to go when you are desperately in need of an overseas holiday?
“Two popular destinations for South African travellers are Zanzibar and the Maldives,” says Joanne. “With hotels re-opening, there are excellent package deals available at both destinations. This is the ideal time to visit these desirable year-round islands.”
Nestled in the warm Indian Ocean, Zanzibar and the Maldives are superb year-round destinations. The Maldives have been described as a “string of pearls in the azure waters where some islands boast small resorts for total relaxation and attentive service”. Lazy days are spent on the beach, snorkelling and diving and there are plenty of activities available daily. Dinner is served under the stars.
“You don’t need a PCR test to get into Zanzibar, but you need one to get back to South Africa. Most
operators can assist clients with organising a transfer to a nearby testing centre. Testing facilities generally charge up to R1 460 per test. It takes 36-48 hours to receive test results, which can either be delivered to the hotel or to the airport to connect with your return flight departure,” says Joanne.
Flights to the Maldives are on Qatar Airlines via Doha and are available daily. Negative Covid tests are required before both outbound and inbound travel.
Zanzibar is a heady mix of African and Omani cultures, religion, architecture and cuisine. The coastline is dotted with upmarket resorts with sandy white beaches, pools set under shady palms and daily activities for both adults and children to keep the entire family busy. No visit would be complete without a walking tour of ancient Stone Town with its winding alleys, markets and the famous Zanzibar doors.
There are two flights weekly which take you directly to Zanzibar. The same Covid protocols apply and resorts have applied a stringent hygiene routine to keep all visitors safe.
Two popular packages are:
4* Plus Brennia Kottefaru Maldives
https://www.thompsons.co.za/holiday-packages/4plus-brennia-kottefaru-maldives-package-7-nights/PP-TH2868934
This 7 night package sells for R32,797 pp sharing and includes flights, taxes, transfers, accommodation, all meals and selected drinks daily. Snorkeling equipment and Wi-Fi is also included.
Travel is between 1 May and 31 July and booking must be made by 30 April 2021. The Covid test is done at the hotel at a cost of USD90 pp.
5* Riu Palace – Zanzibar
https://www.thompsons.co.za/holiday-packages/5-riu-palace-zanzibar-package-7-nights/PP-TH2858553
From R19,672 pp sharing for 7 nights including flights, taxes, transfers, accommodation, all meals and selected drinks. Enjoy a free tour of Stone Town. Travel is between 1 May and 31 May.
The Covid test is conducted at a private hospital and the cost is USD 100.
Contact Thompsons on www.thompsons.co.za or on 011-770-7677