Kaya 959 Kaya Biz

South Africans Plan More Holidays in 2026 — AI, Lux-Scaping & Passion Pursuits on the Rise

Loading player...
After years of cautious spending, South Africans are getting ready to pack their bags and they’re doing it smarter, greener, and with more luxury in mind.

According to Marriott Bonvoy’s latest Ticket to Travel research, nearly seven in ten South Africans plan to take the same or more holidays in 2026, with Gen Z and Millennials leading the charge. AI is officially mainstream, with almost 60% of travellers comfortable letting AI tools like ChatGPT plan and book their trips while new trends like “lux-scaping” and “passion pursuits” are shaping how people travel.

Joining us to unpack these trends is Dorcas Dlamini Mbele, Senior Director of Commercial for Sub-Saharan Africa at Marriott International. She shares insights into how South Africans are blending tech, sustainability, and indulgence to redefine modern travel from spa retreats and curated experiences to multi-country adventures and purpose-led holidays.
11 Nov 2025 4PM English South Africa Business News · Investing

Other recent episodes

4Sight CEO on Why Intelligent Automation Is Now Essential

4Sight Holdings is at the forefront of AI‑powered enterprise transformation, with FY26 revenue up 16.3%. CEO Tertius Zitzke unpacks the rise of intelligent automation, the convergence of OT and IT, WhatsApp‑based enterprise tools, and the technologies that will shape South African businesses over the next five years.
2 Jun 3PM 9 min

Rate Hike Tests SA Property Market Resilience

After months of improving sentiment, the latest rate hike raises questions about affordability and market momentum. CEO Herschel Jawitz explains the impact on buyers, sellers, investors and tenants — and why long‑term fundamentals remain positive despite short‑term pressure.
2 Jun 3PM 16 min

SA’s KSIA Marks 16 Years With 92% Passenger Recovery

King Shaka International Airport celebrates 16 years as KZN’s aviation gateway, with passenger volumes rebounding to 92% of pre‑pandemic levels. Sanjeev Gareeb discusses operational milestones, new route development, infrastructure upgrades, and what travellers can expect in the years ahead.
2 Jun 3PM 17 min

SA New Vehicle Sales Hit 12‑Year High Despite Rate Hikes

South Africa’s new vehicle market continues to defy economic pressure, with May sales reaching their highest level since 2013. NADA Vice‑Chairperson Thembinkosi Pantsi breaks down consumer trends, rising interest in hybrids and EVs, and why mobility remains a priority even in a high‑cost environment.
2 Jun 3PM 14 min

Telkom HEPS Up 21.5% as Data Strategy Powers Growth

Telkom delivered a strong set of full‑year results, with data revenue rising to R26.6bn and HEPS up 21.5%. CEO Serame Taukobong unpacks mobile momentum, fibre growth, improved cash generation, and the Group’s revised dividend policy in a tough economic environment.
2 Jun 3PM 14 min
All episodes