A client booked a holiday to Mauritius and was due to leave on the Friday. They had booked their flights online and our company was asked to take care of the land part of their trip. 
At the time of booking the new regulation that minors travelling in to or out of South Africa would require an unabridged birth certificate was due to come into effect on  October 31. Our agency informed the client that he should remember to apply for this and ensure that he has it with him when checking-in. 
At the airport and ready to check-in, he presented the unabridged birth certificate. The control officer said: “It’s not yet a requirement but it’s really good that people are so willing and ready to follow the law. For now can I just have the passport?" 
Him and his wife, puzzled, looked at each other then asked the officer: “When did the law come in that you need a passport to travel? We are only aware of the unabridged birth certificate!” 
Unfortunately they had to cancel their holiday.
This week’s Monday smile was sent in by Tariq Sooliman, Travel Consultant at Sure Mithas Travel in Potchefstroom.
Do you have funny stories to share with us? Strange client requests? Humorous travel experiences? Write to carom@nowmedia.co.za. For every story published, Tourism Update will pay R250. Submissions can be anonymous.