Gillian Jacobs Travel

19/07/2024

A massive and worldwide outage is affecting airlines and airports.

04/04/2024

Enjoy an opportunity to sail on Seven Seas Splendor’s first visit to South Africa with special rates for our market only!

Contact Gillian Jacobs Travel for your booking needs.

22/03/2024

👏 World's 10 best cities for 2024

1. 🇺🇸 New York City, US
2. 🇿🇦 Cape Town, South Africa
3. 🇩🇪 Berlin, Germany
4. 🇬🇧 London, UK
5. 🇪🇸 Madrid, Spain
6. 🇲🇽 Mexico City, Mexico
7. 🇬🇧 Liverpool, UK
8. 🇯🇵 Tokyo, Japan
9. 🇮🇹 Rome, Italy
10. 🇵🇹 Porto, Portugal

10/01/2024

Effective January 1, the US has waived visa interviews for applicants who meet certain conditions.

Under the new requirements, those re-applying for the same class of non-immigrant visas will not need to do an interview if their application falls within 48 months of the previous visa expiry.

Additionally, interviews for first-time H-2 visa applicants (temporary agricultural and non-agricultural workers) will be waived.

However, for a visa interview waiver, applicants must:
* Apply in their country of nationality or residence,
* Ensure they have never been denied a visa unless this was waived,
* Demonstrate there are no other aspects that could deem them ineligible.

“Consular officers may still require in-person interviews on a case-by-case basis or because of local conditions.

We encourage applicants to check embassy and consulate websites for more detailed information about visa application requirements and procedures, and to learn more about the embassy’s operating status and services,” the US Department of State’s Bureau of Consular Affairs noted on its website.

The Secretary of State, following consultations with the Department of Homeland Security, has determined that the following categories of interview waivers are in the national interest.  Changes based on that determination are implemented by consular officers, who now have the authority and discret...

09/01/2024

SA: MEDIA STATEMENT - PERTH, AUSTRALIA - BACK ON SAA’s RADAR

Johannesburg/Perth (Monday, 8 January 2024) – South African Airways (SAA) is delighted to announce the return of its flights to Perth, Australia. The inaugural flight from Johannesburg to Perth is scheduled for 28 April 2024. Bookings open today, Monday 8 January 2024.

Speaking on the announcement, CEO of SAA, Professor John Lamola, says SAA’s operations to Perth are in line with the airline’s strategic plans to scale its operations to a profitable level by leveraging SAA’s unique capabilities as a national carrier with wide-body aircraft that can provide South Africa with long-haul intercontinental air connectivity.

The Perth route marks the second interoceanic route to be reopened within 6 months of the successful launch of the Sao Paulo, Brazil route on 31 October 2023. A Southern hemisphere travel package that goes from Perth to Sau Paulo through Johannesburg, and the way back, is now possible.

As a member of the global network of Star Alliance, SAA is pleased that it can further enhance the seamless travel into and out of Australia for customers of the 25 airlines that are co-members of the alliance.

“Besides the global interconnectivity potential of this route, Perth has long been a favoured destination for South African and Australian travellers, with approximately 80% of our target market being visiting family and friends,” adds Lamola. “The recommencement of the route provides an easier and direct passage for both leisure and business travellers, promoting trade and cultural exchange between South Africa and Australia”.

Flights (SA 280) depart OR Tambo International Airport, Johannesburg, 3 times a week on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Sundays at 20h55 and arrive at Perth International Airport, the following day at 12h20. Flights from Perth (SA 281) are scheduled 3 times a week on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays and depart at 14h40, arriving the following day at 19h35 in Johannesburg.

For the launch phase of the route, SAA will operate an Airbus A340 – 300, with a total seat capacity of 253 (38 business class seats and 215 economy seats). A marvel in the global skies, the A340 – 300 is synonymous with being spacious, comfortable, reliable, and capable of handling long-distance flights with ease.

The launch of the Perth route provides another opportunity for SAA Voyager frequent flyers to earn and redeem their air miles. One SAA Voyager mile is awarded to members for every R1.60 they spend on their purchase of an air ticket. As SAA is a member of the Star Alliance, Voyager members in are eligible for the HSBC Star Alliance Credit Card that is administered from Australia. This affords members additional opportunities to earn Voyager miles and attain Elite credit card status based on their spending.

“We are committed to growing SAA into a revered leader in the global aviation sector. Perth is but one indicator of this ambition and gives us confidence that our vision of expanding our footprint to over 20 destinations this year will be realised,” concludes Lamola.

19/07/2023

https://insideguide.co.za/cape-town/best-city-in-the-world/

The Telegraph’s annual survey of travellers has voted Cape Town the best city for the eighth year in a row. And, SA takes the top spot, too.

22/03/2023

I have reached 100 followers! Thank you for your continued support. I could not have done it without each of you. 🙏🤗🎉

31/12/2022

Wishing all my clients an unforgettable 2023!🎉🎊

I'm just a phone call away, to assist you in arranging your dream getaway, a fun family holiday, or an exhilarating adventure ✈️🛳🏖🏔⛺️🛤🏞🌉🌄🌠

23/12/2022

Merry Christmas to all my clients and thank you for your support throughout 2022! 🎄🎄🎄

Remember the reason for the season and may this Christmas bring you and your family lots of love, happiness, joy, and blessings 🕊🙏

19/04/2022

Returning citizens and arriving visitors will no longer need to perform any test to enter Australia.

24/02/2022

10/12/2021

🤩 Awesome to get such a great review from a new Client 🤩

So with the frantic panic over the past weekend, I was recommended to Gillian. Not knowing me from a bar of soap she dived in to try to get flights for my stranded family. Such levels of service are unheard of in these times. 🍾🍾

This is one GREAT travel agent. Won't leave a stone unturned to find a solution in the most difficult of times. Thank you, Paul ✈️✈️

06/10/2021

SOUTH AFRICA HAS A DIGITAL VAX CARD

The Department of Health brought its COVID-19 Vaccine Certificate System online today (October 5). The URL is https://vaccine.certificate.health.gov.za/

The system, which features a scannable QR code, produces a digital copy of the physical vaccine card which is linked to the Electronic Vaccination Data System (EVDS).

Several tourism leaders have been advocating for this, with President Cyril Ramaphosa noting that the digital vaccination certificate can be used to facilitate travel, access to establishments and gatherings, and other forms of activity that require proof of vaccination status.

“Our approach is informed by World Health Organization guidelines and is in line with international best practice,” he said, adding that streamlining and standardising proof of vaccination would also go a long way towards getting a number of international travel restrictions both from and into the country eased.

Speaking recently on Peter Ndoro’s TV show, For the Record, Mia Malan, respected health journalist, and Editor in Chief and Executive Director of the Bhekisisa Centre for Health Journalism said some organisations and associations in South Africa had expressed the fear that South African vaccine passports might not be created according to international standards already in play globally, and this might be an encumbrance to travel plans.

But, as Malan pointed out, there was not yet a common international standard, but there were guidelines set by WHO, and these were the guidelines that South Africa had followed and was following. She quoted the Department of Health as saying it would add more security features in time, including digital signature technology.

GILLIAN JACOBS TRAVEL
Email: [email protected]
Contact Number: 083 553 0222

04/10/2021

MAURITIUS: Mauritius fully reopens to vaxxed tourists

Mauritius fully opened its doors to international visitors on Friday (October 1).

68% of the 1,3 million population have been fully vaccinated and 89% have received at least one dose, among the highest rates in the world.

According to figures on the Africa CDC website, Mauritius had recorded 13 685 cases of the coronavirus up to September 26, but the weekly average has dropped sharply from an August peak.

In mid-July, when the country partially reopened, the number of infections was at 2 190, The South African reports.

28/09/2021

🛳⛴🚢 Book your QUARAN TOUR with GILLIAN on +27 083 553 0222 or [email protected] 🛳⛴🚢

21/09/2021

🥳SA's CAN TRAVEL TO THE USA🥳

The US will allow vaccinated travellers into the country from early November, including traffic originating in South Africa.

These passengers will require only proof of vaccination, a negative COVID-19 test result prior to travel and the correct visa, says Travel News.

The new rules supersede the 212f restrictions, which prevented anyone from entering the US if they were coming from or had been in one of 33 countries in the 14 days prior to boarding a flight bound for the US.

The list of 33 countries included South Africa, the UK, Ireland, Brazil, India, Iran, and China, plus the Schengen countries.

Contact Gillian on [email protected] or 083 553 0222

15/09/2021

SEYCHELLES OPENS UP TO SOUTH AFRICA

Seychelles Ministry of Health has issued a new set of conditions of entry to the island group – and South Africans are now allowed entry, without quarantine or vaccination, with effect from today (September 13).

There is currently no differentiation of incoming passengers by vaccination status, but visitors are “strongly encouraged” to be fully immunised before travel.

All visitors require a negative certificate from a PCR test conducted within 72 hours before departure and have valid travel insurance to cover COVID-19-related quarantine, isolation, or treatment.

Children up to 17 years are treated the same as the adults with whom they are travelling, Travel News confirms.

Email: [email protected]
Contact Number: 083 553 0222

10/09/2021

European countries ban US travellers

The EU recently removed the US from its list of countries from which travellers can enter without restrictions and, in response, more and more European countries have responded with measures ranging from bans to tighter entry requirements, says Business Insider.

The new entry requirements announced in recent days, as detailed on the websites of US embassies in Europe are:

*In Italy, fully vaccinated US visitors must take a test 72 hours before entering the country. Unvaccinated visitors must self-isolate for five days after arrival.

*The Netherlands has barred all unvaccinated US travellers from entering the country and is requiring vaccinated US travellers to quarantine for ten days, though that can be reduced to five days if a COVID-19 test shows negative results.*

*Bulgaria has barred any traveller from the US from entering.

*Sweden has banned all nonessential travel from the US.

*Denmark has banned unvaccinated US travellers, while those who have been vaccinated will need to show a negative COVID-19 test to enter.

*Spain allows only fully vaccinated travellers from the US to enter the country, with a negative COVID-19 test.

09/09/2021

Tourists heading to Venice will soon have to book their visit in advance using a mobile app and may be turned away if there are too many bookings, according to Sky News.

While it is not yet confirmed when the new rules will come into effect, it was previously said to be between summer 2022 and 2023.

Tourists will also be expected to pay a US$3,50-$12 (R50-R171) fee. It has now been confirmed that residents, students, and commuters will be exempt from the tourist tax, as well as tourists who have paid a R71 overnight tariff when staying in a local hotel.

https://www.capetownetc.com/news/venice-implements-pre-booking-app-to-help-avoid-overcrowding/

Email: [email protected]
Contact Number: 083 553 0222

03/09/2021

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VALID DECEMBER 2021 - JANUARY 2022

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31/08/2021

Good news for all travellers wanting to travel from South Africa to Dubai.

*Effective 31st August 2021, all types of visas are permitted to enter Dubai (Both vaccinated and unvaccinated passengers) with the below requirements.

*Requirements for passengers holding UAE Residence Visas (visa stamped on the passport)

1. UAE Residents must have GDRFA or ICA approval.

2. Present a valid HARD COPY of a Negative Covid-19 PCR test certificate with a QR code issued within 48 hours prior to departure and from an Emirates approved Laboratories.

3. Present a Rapid PCR test report with a QR code conducted at the departure airport within six (6) hours prior to departure and from an Emirates approved Laboratories.

*Requirements for all other passengers (holders of all other types of visas i.e - Newly issued employment & Residence visa, Short stay/Long stay visa, Visitors visa, Visa on arrival)

1. Present a valid HARD COPY of a Negative Covid-19 PCR test certificate with a QR code issued within 48 hours prior to departure and from and Emirates-approved Laboratories.

2. Present a Rapid PCR test report with a QR code conducted at the departure airport within six (6) hours prior to departure and from an Emirates approved Laboratories.

*PCR Test Exemptions:

1. All UAE nationals arriving from any country to Dubai are not required to conduct a PCR test before boarding a flight to Dubai. They are only required to perform a PCR test on arrival in Dubai.

2. 1st degree non-UAE national accompanying a UAE national family member.

3. Domestic workers accompanying a UAE national sponsor.

4. Children of age under 12-years and passengers with moderate to severe disabilities.

Early check-in will open up 4hrs prior to departure from Johannesburg, Cape Town & Durban airport.

*Transit Passengers:

1. All transit passengers must complete all the requirements of their final destination.

2. All passengers travelling from South Africa are required to present a HARD COPY Negative Covid-19 PCR test certificate (from one of our Emirates Approved Laboratories) valid 72 hours before departure and any requirements as mandated by their final destination.

*Report to an Emirates Approved Laboratory for the RAPID PCR test at the airport within six (6) hours prior to departure (Advance Booking Recommended)

1. Ampath
2. Lancet
3. PathCare
4. Atter Pathology Services (APS)
5. IndaloBio Genetic Laboratories
6. Universal Pathology Laboratory
7. Next Pathology

* OR Tambo International Airport: NEXT Pathology at the International hotel in the Kafue conference room, Phone: +27 11 697 2900 Email: [email protected]

* Cape Town International Airport: Navomixhealth at the Terminal Building, Shop 32, Ground Floor, Phone: +27 87 148 9727 Email: [email protected]

* Durban King Shaka International Airport: Navomixhealth at the Terminal Building, Second Floor, Departure Level, Phone: +27 87 148 9727 Email: [email protected]

All costs related to PCR tests are at passengers' own expense.

If all the above requirements have been met no QUARANTINE will be needed in Dubai.

To keep up to date with the latest Emirates-approved laboratories for both COVID-19 PCR test and RAPID PCR test please visit www.emirates.com.

30/08/2021

SOUTH AFRICA / DUBAI: South Africans can now enter Dubai

UAE media are reporting that the UAE will receive tourists “from all countries” who are fully vaccinated with a vaccine approved by the WHO, with effect from today (August 30).

Arriving vaccinated tourists will need to take a rapid PCR test on arrival in Dubai, before leaving the airport.

This applies to travellers from countries such as South Africa, where travel to the UAE has previously been restricted or banned outright.

Passengers with tourist visas must take a mandatory rapid PCR test on arrival at the airport. The previous rules for unvaccinated travellers, including exempted categories, are reported to remain in place.

Incoming tourists must register their vaccination certificates on the ICA website or the Al Hosn app, says Travel News.