Pet-friendly Holiday Advice From Sure Travel

PRLog (Press Release) - Aug. 23, 2010 - Pets are an essential part of many people’s lives and families, serving as constant companions, bringing joy, and even helping them to cope better in times of stress. In fact, some people even consider their pets to be either their surrogate children, or not too far behind that category.

“Considering the close relationship between owner and pet, it’s no surprise then when planning holidays, humans desire to take their loyal companions along to share in the experience. Unfortunately, many vacation destinations are not designed for accommodating pets, and will therefore often reject the notion,” says Vanya Lessing, CEO of Sure Travel. “However if you know exactly where to look, one can find a vast array of destinations that will provide a warm welcome to both you and your pet.”

Sure Travel understands the importance that travellers place on being able to take their furry companions with them on holiday, and as such, has thoroughly examined local options.  Fortunately, vacation getaways in South Africa are increasingly becoming more pet-friendly, and there are a range of holiday destinations in South Africa that you and your travelling companion can go to.

Many establishments in popular holiday provinces in South Africa, such as KwaZulu-Natal and the Western Cape are accessible towards pets and are quite willing to allow potential holiday-makers to travel with their furry friends. “Certain establishments in both provinces have the added benefit of allowing you to keep your pets in your room with you, with many describing themselves as ‘pet passionate’,” adds Lessing.

Other popular holiday provinces are also increasingly trying to attract holiday makers and their pets, as the natural charm and friendliness of the Eastern Cape extends into a host of pet-friendly accommodation, while Mpumalanga and Limpopo are increasingly becoming more attuned to the needs of pet-owners.

“The tranquillity and ruggedness of the African bush has ensured that both the Limpopo and Mpumalanga provinces are popular getaways, and luckily, both have accommodations in which your pets will be welcomed with open arms,” she says.

Further, Lessing says that while Gauteng is not typically viewed a desirable area to holiday in, it‘s attractiveness as a holiday destination is boosted by many places that warmly accept pets. “Some of these also allow pets to sleep in rooms, so if this is your preference as a pet lover, you may want to reconsider Gauteng as a possible vacation spot!” she notes.

Lessing concludes that the nature of accommodation in South Africa is changing with the times, and is adjusting its settings so that pets can receive the same billing as humans.

For more information on Sure Travel, visit their website www.suretravel.co.za.