Southern Africa’s Travel News Weekly
June 23 2010 I No. 2112
INSIDE
TRAVEL NEWS WEEKLY
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News
FEATURE
Avis E-Vouchers
NEWS
Indian Ocean Destinations
No more lost docs
Football Fever
Travel industry shows its ‘gees’
MICE sector is booming Page 2
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Page 13
AA taps into online travel Natalia Thomson
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MAGINE how successful your travel business would be with a client base of over a million South African consumers. So watch out travel agents! The Automobile Association (AA) of South Africa, with its 1,6m members and 80-year reputation, has moved into the world of online retail travel. The AA has launched a new online travel booking engine – AA Holidays – that allows SA members and also 110m international members and consumers in general to book flights and buy packages and accommodation, among many other online travel tools. Pioneered by Lonehill-based Real Time Travel Technology (RTTC), the site has a clean, structured look and feel linked to an established back-end booking engine, which has been running successfully for Thompsons Online and Computicket Travel, with Infinity and Vodacom Business Tourism soon to take up the same system. RTTC co-owner, Paul Clifford, explains that the content-rich Content Management System is “working well” and offers unique features like Google maps with GPS co-ordinates indicating landmarks nearby selected accommodation options. YouTube clips, multiple images and intelligent data indicating the price
variances of domestic and international airfares over a month are among other features on the new site. “On the flight search section, the back-office engine does all the searching but also provides a map of the route and multiple options so that travellers can build an itinerary and pay online immediately. Over 55 000 bed nights are bookable real-time in the system and pricing is checked weekly to ensure it is up to date.”
More features
The AA will also be adding new features to the engine, says Geoff Elske, AA Travel gm. “Weather reports, travel insurance, destination routing and ordering of forex online will eventually be added to enhance any leisure or business trip, ensuring that AA is a traveller’s first port of call when planning to get away.” This easy-to-use portal caters for all travellers, budget or advanced. Its package creator functionality will return the cheapest possible results, where travellers can ‘upgrade’ their choices. The plan-your-trip function allows consumers to dynamically package their trip by searching for product separately. Multiple search results can be placed within the shopping basket and paid for all at once. On the back-end doing the fulfilment is The Holiday
Warehouse, run by former Flight Centre South Africa gm, Dayle White. “We’re focusing on domestic and regional product but consumers can also book international travel through the portal,” says Geoff. AA South Africa’s network with other AA clubs worldwide ensures it has access to tourism product, destination knowledge and content globally. The new online retail agent, says Geoff, will be an opportunity to grow AA’s market share in retail travel but is not aimed at undermining the group’s current chain of 16 Travel Experience stores. “We’ve seen in our research that consumers will generally surf travel sites to do research on the travel options available out there and then go to an agent to book.” Geoff says this is because online consumers in South Africa may still be wary of inputting their credit card details online. “There have also been lots of fly-by-night online travel sites out there. But AA is a trusted brand. It’s 80 years old and we believe this is a key differentiator.” Paul says the system can be white-labelled and customised for use by South African retailers. “The site would have the same functionality, fields and tabs but the look and feel would be designed to reflect the retailer’s branding.” ■
Swiss heads to San Francisco Swiss International Air Lines commenced its new nonstop service between Zurich and San Francisco on June 2. The airline will operate flights six times a week on an A340, which sports a colourful and flowery design with ‘San Francisco’ lettering as a tribute to the West Coast city’s famed flower power past. The aircraft is also the first of Swiss’s A340s to be equipped with the new Swiss business cabin. It has a unique seating arrangement and seats that feature an innovative air cushion whose firmness can be adjusted to the individual’s wishes. All ‘flower powered’ up are Swiss pricing manager, Andrea Bull, and Lufthansa pricing manager, Jeisen De Caires Photo: Tijana Huysamen
US implements secure flight programme Natasha Tippel THE Department of Homeland Security (DHS) in the United States is currently implementing Secure Flight. The programme is an enhanced security check for passengers wanting to fly to/ from/within the US, which, it is
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said, will aid aviation security and help make travel easier for passengers. When travelling to or from the US, passengers will now be required to provide minimum Secure Flight Passenger Data (SFPD) when making a reservation with any
To page 16
NEWS Top web stories MH reviews SA market fares BA dispute: new deal on the table? TNW pick of the week: 2010 room rate decline ‘unusual’ Amadeus to launch new car-booking tool Travelport introduces new leisure portal for agents
Night fever with Qantas Star-struck travel industry stakeholders were treated to an evening of glitz and glamour as Qantas hosted New Jersey-born John Travolta, famed for his role in Grease, Pulp Fiction and Saturday Night Fever, among other Hollywood greats. John, a qualified pilot, arrived in Johannesburg in his own B707 aircraft in support of the Qantas Socceroos in the run-up to the 2010 World Cup. Pictured here rubbing shoulders with John, are Allan Wolman, director XL Rosebank Travel (left) and Michi Messner, Qantas manager Africa
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Rubes® By Leigh Rubin
No more lost docs with Avis e-vouchers Natalia Thomson
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VIS has launched an e-voucher facility enabling consultants to email scanned vouchers directly into the Avis intranet. It will no longer be necessary for consultants to fax vouchers to Avis locations, resulting in the risk of lost vouchers or
TRAVEL NEWS WEEKLY
Published by Lugan Investments (Pty) Ltd trading as Now Media Printed by Juka Printing (Pty) Ltd Phone: (011) 327-4062 Fax: (011) 327-4094 E-mail: tnw@nowmedia.co.za Web: www.nowmedia.co.za Address: Now Media Centre, 32 Fricker Road, Illovo Boulevard, Illovo, Johannesburg. PO Box 55251, Northlands, 2116, South Africa.
EDITORIAL Editor: Natalia Thomson nataliat@nowmedia.co.za Deputy Editor: Natasha Tippel natashat@nowmedia.co.za Sub-Editor: Ann Braun annb@nowmedia.co.za Cape Town Editor: Hilka Birns hilkab@nowmedia.co.za Journalist: Jeanette Phillips jeanettep@nowmedia.co.za Founding Editors: John H Marsh (1914-1996) Leona Marsh (1923-2003) ADVERTISING Sales Manager Kate Nathan Advertising Coordinator: Natalie Walker PRODUCTION Design Head: Dirk Voorneveld
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Subscriptions: Subs tvlsubs@nowmedia.co.za Annual Subscription: RSA R490.00 Foreign R730,00 SADC R545,00 TNW Domestic may receive up to 10 copies per subscription to one address
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vouchers not getting through successfully. Each Avis location in SA has a unique email address that can be located on the relevant travel consortium intranet site as well as on Travelinfo. The e-voucher facility is currently only applicable to South Africa but will be rolled out to the regions shortly.
Travel agents should include the reservation number in the following format – 1234-5678-ZA5 – in the subject heading of the email. The site will only save the attached voucher and no additional information or content included in the email. This forms part of Avis’s ‘going green’ campaign. ■
50 hotels and counting! The City Lodge Hotels group, currently engaged in its biggest ever expansion drive, has opened its 49th and 50th hotels in Pretoria and Bloemfontein respectively. City Lodge Lynnwood, a R124 million development, has opened 123 of its 205 rooms, with the remainder coming on stream during the 2010 Fifa World Cup. Road Lodge Bloemfontein Airport, a R28 million development, has opened its 66 rooms. These two new hotels follow the opening last month of the 118-room Road Lodge Southgate in southern Johannesburg, the 90-room Road Lodge Port Elizabeth Airport in May, and the 303-room City Lodge at OR Tambo Airport in March. Meanwhile, Town Lodge Sandton recently added 70 rooms to its capacity. By the end of this year, the group will have 52 hotels offering 6 443 rooms. Hotels number 51 and 52 are currently under construction and will open in the third and fourth quarters of the year. These are the 187-room City Lodge Hatfield in Pretoria and the 203-room Town Lodge Port Elizabeth. Pictured here celebrating the opening of City Lodge’s 50th hotel are (from left): communications consultant, Angus Macmillan, PA to sales and marketing director, Evelyn Teffo, marketing director, Peter Schoeman, and gm of City Lodge Fourways, Evie Moutsakis Photo: Tijana Huysamen QUICK READ FOR DECISION-MAKERS
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NEWS WB and U7 to codeshare Natasha Tippel RWANDAIR and Air Uganda have signed a codeshare agreement on their flights between Entebbe and Kigali. With their synchronised schedules, the airlines will offer daily morning and evening flights. Air Uganda will operate a flight at 09h00 (local time Entebbe) from Entebbe to Kigali and depart Kigali at 09h15 (local time Kigali) for Entebbe. RwandAir will operate a flight out of Kigali in the evening at 19h00 (local time Kigali), and depart from Entebbe at 21h20 (local time Entebbe) for Kigali.
The partnership will allow passengers to return from Uganda or Rwanda, bypassing Nairobi, thus saving time by combining the non-stop flights. The codeshare will also enable travel agents to sell combinable fares on both airlines using the same ticket. Flights will be operated by a 50-seater Bombardier CRJ Jet. RwandAir ceo, Rene Janata, commenting on the benefits, said: “We both operate the same kind of fleet on this route and it only makes sense to the consumer if the two destinations are served with seamless schedules and fares.â€? â–
Iata simplifies baggage rules Jeanette Phillips
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HE International Air Transport Association (Iata) has announced Automated Carrier Baggage Rules (ACBR), the latest project in its ‘Simplifying the Business’ programme. ACBR will aim to provide a central database for interline baggage rules, enabling airlines, travel agents and passengers to know what baggage rules will apply for any given itinerary. Giovanni Bisignani, Iata dg and ceo, says baggage rules are becoming increasingly complex and confusing.
“Airlines have a variety of different rules and fees depending on the number of bags checked, class of travel, frequent flyer status and routings. ACBR will put all of that information in one place so passengers can have a complete understanding of baggage fees before they buy their tickets, even for complicated journeys.� According to Iata, airlines will benefit from easier, faster and more accurate handling of baggage charges at checkin. This in turn is planned to reduce costly and timeconsuming disputes between carriers over whose baggage
allowances and charges apply for any given journey. Iata is partnering with the Airline Tariff Publishing Company (ATPCO), which will host the central database. Iata will populate the database by mobilising airlines to submit their baggage rules to ATPCO by September, for implementation in early 2011. Travel agents and airlines that link to the new database through existing reservations and ticketing systems will enable passengers to receive baggage fee and allowance information at the time of booking. â–
Travelinfo,s Michele Reynolds selects the top specials from Travelinfo Frequent Flyer Reward Program
RwandaAir Dream Miles™ members can earn miles when flying RwandAir Earn ONE FREE TICKET on any RwandaAir Destination*: for every 5 roundtrip Regional RwandaAir flights OR for every 10 roundtrip Domestic RwandaAir flights eligible only with tickets issued from 1st January, 2009. free tickets are transferable to anyone you choose. 5 X weekly flights from JNB to Kigali with connections to Bujumbura, Entebbe, Nairobi and Dar es Salaam Remember RwandAir now flies on Thursdays as well! Holiday Aviation, Holiday House, 156 Bram Fischer Drive, Randburg, Johannesburg "JSQPSU 0GmDF t 5FM t 'BY &NBJM SXBOEBBJS!IPMJEBZBWJBUJPO DP [B t 8FCTJUF XXX SXOEBJS DPN
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• Airlink is offering a special one-way fare between Johannesburg and Polokwane from R445. The fare is valid for travel until July 11. Includes VAT but excludes other taxes. • Explore Plus Travel & Tours is offering a seven-night package to Madagascar from R8 937 per person sharing. The rate includes return flights ex-Johannesburg, airport taxes, half-board accommodation at Explore Village and airport transfers. Valid until July 31. Packages for other properties also available. •Beachcomber Tours. Seven-night World Cup special at Le Mauricia from R8 880 per person sharing. Includes return flights ex-Johannesburg, return transfers, accommodation with dinner and breakfast and land and non-motorised water sports as per the 2010 brochure. Excludes taxes. Valid for set departures between June 17 and 30. • ISO Leisure Hotels. Holiday Inn Express Durban – Umhlanga opening special from R425 per person sharing per night, including breakfast. Valid from July 13 to August 31 on Friday, Saturday and Sunday nights only.
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QUICK READ FOR DECISION-MAKERS
AirHeads Iberia adds five new international destinations
IBERIA is adding five new international destinations to its schedule and launching non-stop flights to Panama City. The airline will start flights to Amman (Jordan) from July 3, followed by Damascus (Syria) from July 13. Iberia will offer two flights a week between Madrid and Amman and one between Madrid and Damascus. On September 16, the airline will launch Monday and Friday services between Madrid and Oran (Algeria) and on October 1, it will become the first European airline to fly direct to Argentina’s second-largest city, Córdoba, and to San Salvador, the capital of El Salvador. The flights to San Salvador will have a short stopover in Guatemala, while the return flight will be direct. Iberia will also resume services to St Petersburg on June 1, to Dubrovnik on June 20 and to Zagreb on July 3 after the pause during the winter months.
Air France to operate A380 on Tokyo route
AIR France will offer three weekly frequencies between Paris and Tokyo on the Airbus 380 from September 1, going to daily from October 5. Flights from Paris will operate on Wednesdays, Fridays and Sundays and the return flights on Mondays, Thursday and Saturdays. Flights are already bookable.
AF set to launch mobile corporate website
AIR France is set to launch its corporate website in a mobile phone format on mobile-corporate.airfrance.com. The website will contain the airline’s latest news, practical information, key figures and useful contacts. The content on the mobile version, updated in real time, features a selection of videos and short interviews that take users behind the scenes, some of which are exclusive to the site.
Lufthansa adjusts SA fares
LUFTHANSA published fares from South Africa to Germany have increased, effective June 22. Fares have increased as follows: • First class: + R970 • Business class: +R970 • Economy class: + R370 YQ tax surcharges have decreased by €5 (R47) per sector throughout all classes. Refer to Travelinfo for more details.
Star Alliance lounge finder now live Natasha Tippel
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USTOMERS who regularly make use of the lounges in the Star Alliance network have a new tool to help them find their way to facilities and get at-a-glance information about which lounges they are entitled to access based on the alliance’s global lounge access policy. Customers can search by city, airport, airline and terminal to find the name and type of lounge, the
location, direction, opening hours, details of amenities and services provided, along with photos and maps. The lounge finder’s first phase includes all lounges by member carriers and the four Star Alliance lounges. The lounge finder is available in English but will be expanded to include the other eight official languages on the website. The next phase will include all contract lounges and later a mobile version of the application as well. ■
From the Benchmark – CPA countdown Advocate Louis Nel gives his tips on cancellations and penalties… You have to differentiate between direct and other forms of marketing. The former entails the burden of the five business days (i.e. one calendar week) ‘cooling off period’, which runs from the date the transaction is concluded or the goods are delivered, whichever is the later. The consumer can cancel without any reason and must be reimbursed within a further 15 business days. ■ QUICK READ FOR busiest people
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PillowTalk
A brief look at this week's hotel news Cape Royal launches new services
CAPE Royal Luxury Hotel and Residence has launched new services for guests. These include a children’s club, butler service and a new retro-chic luxury villa, which is available for rent just in time for the 2010 FIFA World Cup. Children under the age of 16 can now stay free when travelling with parents and will be kept entertained by a variety of games and activities at the kids’ club. A 24-hour butler service is now also available to assist with any guest requirements.
Hyatt launches new travel agent website
HYATT Hotels and Resorts has launched a new travel agent website, www.HyattTravelAgents.com. According to Hyatt’s marketing programmes manager, Corinne Aaron-Pavic, the new site is a one-stop shop for travel agents to find all relevant information and tools about Hyatt, from agent commission information to brochure requests. Agents can enrol on the site in Hyatt’s Travel Specialist programme, a four-chapter course that introduces agents to the hotel group by highlighting properties, defining its brands and outlining key selling features for leisure and business travel. The new website will also feature hotel promotions, travel-agent-related special offers and news.
Court Classique gets upgrade
THE Court Classique Suite Hotel’s R4,5million upgrade of its property in Pretoria is nearing completion. The final touches are being applied to the interior of the public areas in the main building. Making up the bulk of the upgrade is a R4,3million refurbishment of all 58 suites and public areas including conference facilities. It includes the launch of the Orange Restaurant and Wine Cellar, a R100 000 state-of-the-art security system and a R400 000 makeover of the exterior of the property.
Orion Group acquires the Coach House
THE Orion Hotel Group has acquired the five-star Coach House hotel near Tzaneen in Limpopo Province, effective July 1. The purchase of the Coach House marks the entry of the Orion Hotels Group into the luxury market. The group says it will soon be announcing a new branding strategy for its hotels, coupled with enhancing and expanding its conference facilities. The group also says it will be developing all aspects of the Coach House, with particular emphasis on enhancing the business model of the spa.
Qantas to introduce more PER/SYD services Jeanette Phillips
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ANTAS has announced six additional weekly services on its Perth-Sydney route, starting in July. The airline says the additional capacity will support customers travelling at peak business times. The new services are:
• An additional Perth-Sydney service operating daily from Monday to Saturday, departing at 07h05, and; • An additional Sydney-Perth service operating daily from Sunday to Friday departing at 15h10. With the addition of the new service, customers can now travel to Perth on three afternoon services at midday, 15h10 or 16h50. ■
Finnair appoints SA GSA Jeanette Phillips
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FINNAIR has appointed Holiday Aviation as its GSA in Southern Africa, responsible for ticketing, sales and marketing. Bets Combrink, gm of Holiday Aviation, says: “Finnair is a member of the oneworld alliance and has a codeshare agreement with British Airways offering South African passengers the opportunity to book Finnair from Johannesburg to Helsinki and beyond.” Routes available to the South African market are between Johannesburg and London, London and Helsinki and Oslo and
Helsinki. Effective August 2010, the airline will open a new, fast connection from Helsinki to Stockholm Bromma Airport and will continue with 50 flights per week between Helsinki and Arlanda. Finnair also has codeshare agreements with the following airlines: Aeroflot, Air China, Air France, American Airlines, British Airways, Cathay Pacific, Czech Airlines, Finncomm Airlines, Iberia, Icelandair, Japan Airlines, Malév Hungarian Airlines, Meridiana fly, Rossiva, Qantas, Ukraine International Airlines and Ural Airlines. ■ QUICK READ FOR DECISION-MAKERS
NEWS
Indian Ocean Destinations
Corporates look for all-inclusive packages While Indian Ocean destinations, particularly the islands, have typically been holiday destinations for South Africans, the MICE sector, especially in Mauritius, is experiencing good growth. Natasha Tippel reports.
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NDIAN Ocean destinations are popular meeting, incentive, conference and event destinations, especially with corporates who are looking to manage their travel spend by booking all-inclusive packages. “World Leisure Holidays has definitely seen an increase in demand for allinclusive packages,” says national sales and marketing manager, Alexis Bekker.
says Alexis. Club Med has also noticed an increase in the trend. Md of Club Med SA, Elaine Youngleson, notes there is a definite boost in the number of groups travelling, albeit the groups are smaller than previous years. “Club Med’s formula/ concept, which has evolved to offer total all-inclusive, is certainly proving popular, complemented by the Reduced budgets fact that the Club Med “Corporates work according environment and product to budgets. These costs offer is conducive to creating are then determined upfront ‘happiness’.” reducing the margin for error This, she says, is what in spend. corporates are seeking – “Budgets have been something uniquely different reduced so pricing that positively contributes to TNW Ocean 6/10/10 9:38 AM 1 has- Indian become extremely thePage company’s team-building competitive in this field.” and/or incentive/corporate
travel experience. But some corporates are not swayed by allinclusive packages and would rather stick to their corporate deals with certain suppliers.
“When it comes to Mauritius, corporates are demanding all-inclusive quotes right from the start.” Colleen Broadley, marketing manager of Beachcomber, says although there is a definite trend for corporates to look for allinclusive deals, many of them are still happy to choose the higher priced hotels C M Y CM
where these options are not available, because they are familiar with the facilities and their suitability to the group. However, marketing and reservations manager of The Holiday Factory, Flora Fubbs, finds that corporates are definitely swayed in the decisions they make when it comes to the all-inclusive package offers. “We have found that the current booking trend still lends itself to clients ‘shopping around’, especially when it comes to incentive breakaways. “The hotel that can offer the best value and the best price is often the one that wins the tender at the end of the day.” Md of Naïade Holidays, Matthew Fubbs, agrees: MY CY CMY K
“When it comes to Mauritius, corporates are demanding all-inclusive quotes right from the start.” Flora also notes that most incentive clients are more inclined to scale down on the grading of resort they choose and prefer to secure the best value for money.
Benefits
When it comes to managing a company’s travel budget, the benefits of booking with all-inclusive resorts cannot be ignored. Budgeting certainty affords corporates peace of mind, as they are able to plan their finances more accurately and control expenditure. “They know from the outset what they need to pay/budget To page 8
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NEWS Indian
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From page 7 for. It’s a simpler process,” says marketing manager of Rani Resorts, Michele Abrahams. Travellers’ Choice manager, Marius Venter, describes all-inclusive options as a ‘one-stop-shop’ alternative. “Corporates can be assured that their dedicated budgets are respected and that their invitees/delegates are taken care of from departure to return without having to put their hands in their pockets,” adds Elaine.
What is all-inclusive?
But what exactly is included in an ‘all-inclusive’ package? Corporates and their travel agents need to study the actual quality of the contents of the all-
inclusive, says Colleen. For example, in many hotels the drinks offered are local brands and the meals are restricted to certain restaurants. Club Med says its ‘total all-inclusive’ offer covers airfare; transfers and taxes (if a package is chosen); accommodation; three gourmet buffet meals per day; open bar and snacking service, day and night; onsite team building; a range of sports and activities with expert tuition; daily and nightly entertainment; and comprehensive insurance cover. For conferencing, conference room hire, audio-visual equipment hire, and catering for morning and afternoon tea are at an extra cost. ■
moreexclusivemoreinclusive
HALF OFF YOUR BETTER HALF
Couples who enjoy a 7-night escape to Club Med Resorts enjoy 50% off the second person’s stay with our HALF OFF YOUR BETTER HALF special! Book and Pay before 30 Jun. ’10 to qualify for this special! More for less! Plan ahead and SAVE up to R13 800* per family of 4 with Club Med’s Early Booking Bonus! Book and Pay before 10 Jul. ’10 to qualify for this special!
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Top Indian Ocean MICE destinations Mauritius is a firm favourite. “The all-inclusive options are extensive and cost effective – more bang for your buck,” says Alexis Bekker. “Mauritius never fails to deliver on quality and service and often sees the client getting more than they expected.” Matthew Fubbs agrees: “Mauritius is still great value for money.” Plus, he says, the island offers a good exchange rate. Another bonus is that Mauritius is short-haul. It is accessible, the hotels are high quality, and it offers excellent service levels on the ground and staff professionalism in dealing with group travel, says Colleen Broadley. “Most hotels and resorts are able to host various events and, if not, Mauritius has conference centres for hire, therefore the destination is able to accommodate any type of MICE travel,” adds Elaine Youngleson. Flora Fubbs agrees: “The island’s tourist infrastructure is so impeccably developed that if you can come up with an idea for an event or activity, someone can make it happen.” But the flavour of the month is Zanzibar, says Alexis. “This is for the corporate that is looking for a change and a destination relatively unexplored with exceptional value for money. Our greatest demand currently is Zanzibar.” The destination enjoys direct flights from South Africa, has great proximity and travellers are now issued with visas on arrival, says Flora. But what surprises travellers to Zanzibar is how much scenery, history and culture there is to absorb. “This cost-effective destination is home to beautiful architecture, rich heritage, powdery white beaches and a vast selection of luxury resorts. These attributes all make Zanzibar a perennial contender on anyone’s list of top incentive travel destinations,” she says. Another unusual destination that is becoming increasingly popular is the Maldives. The reason for this, says Elaine, is that it is more exotic than Mauritius and less commercialised. As are the islands of Mozambique – a different destination from what has been popular for MICE events in the past. “Mozambique is our neighbour and there is easy access from South Africa,” says Michele Abrahams. “The islands offer beautiful, safe surroundings as well as exclusivity to MICE guests.”
Air Mauritius – new baggage policy to Europe AIR Mauritius now applies the piece concept for checked baggage on its European network, from June 1. Every passenger is entitled to a free baggage allowance of one piece of 23kg in economy class and three pieces of 23kg each in business class. Kestrelflyer Elite and Kestrelflyer Plus members will be allowed one additional piece of luggage of 23kg free of charge. For any excess between 23kg and up to 32kg (maximum weight allowed for each piece of checked baggage), a fee of €100 (R940) is charged ex-Europe and US$100 (R770) ex-Mauritius.
Additional luggage
www.lam.co.mz
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• Economy class: second piece – €55 (R517) ex-Europe and US$55 (R423) ex-Mauritius, third piece – €200 (R1 880) ex-Europe and US$200 (R1 539) ex-Mauritius. • Business class: for each additional piece, €200 ex-Europe and US$200 ex-Mauritius. On the rest of Air Mauritius’s network (non-Europe), the weight concept for checked baggage remains. “This new policy for baggage allowance on the European network is in line with industry practices. It represents added benefits for our passengers, especially those who are connecting on our partner, Air France’s, flights via Paris-Charles de Gaulle,” says Raj Deenanath, vice-president of sales and distribution. QUICK READ FOR DECISION-MAKERS
First Seychelles eco-tourism NEWS review launched
Club Med launches villas Club Med has officially opened its villas at La Plantation d'Albion in Mauritius. The villas are located next to the resort and are available for outright purchase, rental scheme or per night stays. Corporates have started using villa stays for meetings with a difference, notes Elaine Youngleson. Guests are given the opportunity to experience Mauritius in the privacy of their own villa, in a private domain – intimate and discreet, she says
Air Mauritius opens airport office AIR Mauritius has centralised its reservations and ticketing operations in JNB. It has also established offices with a customer service agent based at KSIA and CPT airports and a sales
executive in each province to attend to customer needs. The reason for these changes, says the airline, is to ensure that Air Mauritius establishes a stronger hub in SA supporting its
SA operation as it aims to increase frequency and capacity on the route. Air Mauritius has daily flights from JNB and flies direct to Mauritius from DUR and CPT twice a week.
THE Seychelles Tourism Board (STB) has launched a comprehensive review of Seychelles’ eco-tourism sites for use by visitors and residents. The review is entitled ‘A review of the Eco-Tourism Sites, Activities and Attractions in Seychelles’ and provides information on 20 eco-tourism sites of interest on Mahé, eight on Praslin, seven on La Digue and nine on other islands. All of them have ongoing conservation activities or are of biodiversity importance. The guide also lists 11 designated sites and special reserves as
well as nine nature-based events and activities held by various organisations. It also includes 31 national monuments on Mahé, two on Praslin, five on La Digue and four on other islands. Speaking about the review, the STB’s environmental co-ordinator, Betty Seraphine, says eco-tourism is becoming increasingly important, not only to Seychelles but across the world. “It was necessary for STB to create this review as eco-tourism is at the heart of its tourism policy, with the focus on the country’s environment, flora and fauna as well as cultural heritage.”
Seychelles confirms new Ramsar sites THE Seychelles Tourism Board has confirmed that two of its wetlands – Mare Aux Cochons and Aldabra atoll – have been inducted as Ramsar sites. This now brings the total of dedicated Ramsar sites in Seychelles to three, the other being Port Launay, which was declared in 2005.
Seychelles is now hoping to add La Plaine Hollandaise, Vallée de Mai and Anse Lazio to its list of protected wetlands areas. Ramsar status is an indication that a wetland is of significant international importance. For more information, see www.ramsar.org.
R10 425.00 p/p + taxes R1 800.00 p/p Includes: Return economy air fare JNB/MRU/JNB on SAA (Q Class). Airport/hotel/airport transfers. 7 nights accommodation sharing a twin/double room on Half Board. Travellers’ Choice Bag.
Mauritius Le Meridien
Call Travellers’ Choice (011) 869 1600 for bookings or email res@tchoice.co.za Subject to availability, air fare increases and currency fluctuations
Valid from 14 July till 19 September 2010
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NEWS Indian
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Rani Resorts offers free nights Rani Resorts is offering free night specials at the following resorts: • Indigo Bay, Matemo Island and Medjumbe Private Island – stay five to nine nights and get one night free; stay for over 10 nights and get two nights free. • Pemba Beach Hotel and Spa – stay three to nine nights and get one night free; stay over 10 nights and get two nights free. The offer is valid until 10 January 2011, excluding peak periods.
Federal Air is running a Mozambique special of R1 450 one way between Johannesburg and Vilanculos. This follows a recent announcement from the airline that it would increase air capacity on the route. With the introduction of the airline’s new ATR-72 aircraft, the number of available seats increased by over 50%. Federal Air flies direct from Johannesburg to Vilanculos daily out of OR Tambo International Airport (depart 10h20) and three times a week out of KrugerMpumalanga International Airports (depart 11h45). Flight time is two hours.
Thompsons launches new beach tour Following the popularity of its Malalane to Maputo City Tour, Thompsons Holidays has now launched a Mozambique Beach Adventure Day Tour out of Malalane, outside the Kruger National Park.
The tour will stop at various attractions and eateries and heads north towards Xai Xai. Guests will also experience Mozambique’s biggest road market, the small town of Marracuene, where the
mauritius
vehicle is driven on to a ferry to reach the island of Maccaneta. The tour departs at 07h00 daily, on request, with a minimum of six passengers.
seychelles
Sensational Trou aux Biches
Looking out over the Baixo do Pinda Peninsula Photo: The Mozambique Collection
Nuarro joins Mozambique Collection THE Mozambique Collection has announced the addition of Nuarro Luxury Eco Lodge to its collection. The lodge is situated in the Baixo do Pinda Peninsula next to Nanatha Village in Memba District, Nampula Province. Nuarro consists of 12 luxury beachfront chalets with indoor and outdoor showers, a lounge area, a large wooden verandah and a sun-deck close to the ocean. Activities include visits to a PADI-certified Marine Activity Centre and a community project with which the
establishment is involved. “The Mozambique Collection is a grouping on some of Mozambique’s most exciting destinations. A diverse range of experiences that all share an underlying principle – to offer the best in barefoot luxury experiences while benefiting the local communities in which they operate.” The portfolio showcases the great variety of Mozambique – from the country’s flagship national park, to Indian Ocean beaches and Lake Niassa’s secluded wonders.
Announcing Increased Airlift to Vilanculos thanks to Federal Air Federal Air announces the introduction of increased air capacity from Johannesburg to Vilanculos and the beauty of the Bazaruto Archipelagos! From early June 2010, with the introduction of their new ATR-72 aircraft, the number of available seats will increase by over 50%.
The dream awakens. Trou aux Biches becomes a reality. The most famous hotel in Mauritius reopens with a five star superior rating in November to reveal the most contemporary resort style while guarding the island
Mozambique Specials
tradition which made it so sought-after. Junior suites, Beachfront senior suites with pool and luxury villas Ask Beachcomber Tours for rates and start booking now.
R1450
Only one way from Johannesburg to Vilanculos.
a beachcomber hotel
Indian Ocean Island Lifestyle
Book online at www.fedair.com or email info@fedair.com Otherwise contact us on +27 11 395-9000
For Reservations call Beachcomber on 0800 500 800 www.beachcomber.co.za TNW4008SD
10 n Wednesday June 23 2010
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QUICK READ FOR DECISION-MAKERS
NEWS Four Seasons offers upgrade special THE Four Seasons Resort in Mauritius is offering a free upgrade from bed and breakfast to half board over the World Cup period. The special includes breakfast and a threecourse dinner (excl. beverages) from the à la carte menus in any of its restaurants. The Holiday Factory is offering a sevennight package from R15 500pps, including breakfast and dinner, flights and airport transfers. Travellers’ Choice is
Discover Harmony with Naïade Holidays Naïade Holidays has launched its ‘Harmony all-inclusive package’ at the five-star Legends resort in Mauritius. The package, which commences at noon on the day of arrival and finishes at noon on the day of departure, includes: daily buffet breakfast; daily lunch including all dishes from the à la carte menu except those consisting of lobster, camaron, foie gras and caviar; daily dinner, served at Ginkgo; pancakes every afternoon at Grand Bleu Bar from 16h00 to 18h00; locally bottled alcoholic beverages, rum, selection of wines, local beer, soft drinks, juices and mineral water; and the mini bar (except wines and snacks). The Harmony package sells as a supplement to halfboard rates at R637,50 per adult per day. Teens can upgrade at R479 per day and children at R319 per day
also offering a seven-night package for R14 964pps. The offer includes return economy airfare on SAA (excluding taxes), breakfast and dinner daily, and a Travellers’ Choice bag. Value add: complimentary, unlimited golf including green fees, golf cart with GPS and a pyramid of golf balls (55 balls for practice only); plus a three-course dinner from the à la carte menus in any of the restaurants. The offer is valid until July 15.
• Mozambican airline, LAM, is offering great economy-class fares from Johannesburg to Maputo for US$130 (R1 000) one way and US$230 (R1 785) return, excluding taxes. LAM flies twice daily from Johannesburg to Maputo. The morning flight departs at 08h40 and arrives in Maputo at 09h40. The evening flight departs at 19h10 and arrives in Maputo at 08h10. • Air Mauritius is offering a special fare to London via Mauritius, including a free stopover. Fares are from R6 000 in economy class.
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QUICK READ FOR busiest people
Wednesday June 23 2010 n 11
NEWS Indian
• Travellers’ Choice is offering great deals on set departures. Participating resorts are: Blue Lagoon – R7 625pp, all inclusive; Heritage Awali Golf and Spa Resort – R10 335, half board; Intercontinental – R10 180pp, all inclusive; Maritim – R9 715pp, all inclusive; and Grand Mauritian – R11 240pp, half board. Set departure dates are June 23-30, June 26-July 7, June 30-July 7, and July 4-11. The offer includes return economy airfare (excl. taxes) on MK ex-JNB, airport/hotel/airport transfers, seven nights’ accommodation, and a Travellers’ Choice bag. Grand Mauritian package includes an early booking offer, 14 days advanced purchase.
Ocean
Legend reopens beach lodge LEGEND Lodges, Hotels and Resorts’ Dugong Beach Lodge has been refurbished after damage from a cyclone. Situated within the Vilanculos Coastal Wildlife Sanctuary, the 12-chalet property offers sea-facing rooms with decks, a seaside bar and pool, Internet access and a small library, among other facilities.
• The Holiday Factory has launched the Deal of the Decade at Maritim in Mauritius. Pay R9 699pps for seven nights, all inclusive. The offer includes flights (excl. taxes and surcharges) and is valid from July 15 until August 31. A World Cup supplement of R300 applies for bookings made between June 12 and July 15.
The new flavour of the month The Holiday Factory is offering a seven-night special on a half-board basis to the Sultan Sands Beach Resort and Spa in Zanzibar for R9 110pps, including airfare (excl. taxes) ex-JNB, plus return airport transfers. Hotels the operator has launched to the trade recently include Sultan Sands, Blue Bay, Diamonds Dream of Zanzibar, Sandies Mapenzi Beach, Sandies Neptune Beach, Diamonds Gemma Del Est, Breezes Beach Club, The Palms and Ras Nungwi
• Rani Resorts has joined forces with Lion Sands to offer a special groups and incentives package that combines the bush and beach experience. The Bush&Beach combo includes two nights at Lion Sands River Lodge in the Sabi Sand Reserve and three nights at Indigo Bay in a beach chalet, flights on Federal Air from KMIA to Vilanculos to Johannesburg (excl. taxes), all meals daily, beverages (local beers and spirits and selected house wines), transfers from Vilanculos to Indigo Bay and from Skukuza to Lion Sands, a sunset cruise and more. Rates are from R20 150pps.
Thompsons Specialist Collection 3 NIGHTS 4* SOUTHERN SUN MAPUTO, MOZAMBIQUE ex JNB R 4 179 ex DUR R4 849 ex CPT R5 319 (Add levy ex JNB R1 548 ex DUR/CPT R2 266) ALSO INCLUDES: %UHDNIDVW GDLO\ DQG RQH VHDIRRG SODWWHU SHU FRXSOH
Dream the destination... Live the journey.
VALID UNTIL 31 AUG ‘10. REF: 21711 VALID FOR WEEKEND TRAVEL FRI/SAT/SUN
6 NIGHTS - 4* T- CLUB ALLAMANDA, SEYCHELLES ex JNB R11 559 ex DUR/CPT R12 019 (Add levy ex JNB R1 585 ex DUR/CPT R2 515) VALID UNTIL 31 OCT ‘10. REF: 25858
7 NIGHTS - 4* OLHUVELI BEACH RESORT & SPA, MALDIVES ex JNB/DUR/CPT
Indian Ocean Islands PACKAGES INCLUDE:
5HWXUQ IOLJKWV 5HWXUQ WUDQVIHUV 1LJKWV DFFRPPRGDWLRQ %UHDNIDVW DQG GLQQHU GDLO\ 0R]DPELTXH PHDO EDVLV LV DV VSHFLILHG 7KRPSVRQV +ROLGD\V ORFDO UHSUHVHQWDWLYH DW \RXU VHUYLFH GXULQJ \RXU VWD\
Contact Thompsons Holidays JNB 011 770 7700 DUR 031 275 3500 &37 021 408 9500
www.thompsons.co.za
3HDN VHDVRQ VXUFKDUJHV DQG EORFN RXW GDWHV DSSO\ $IULFD SDFNDJHV YDOLG IRU 6$ FLWL]HQV RQO\ ([FOXGHV JURXS WUDYHO 3ULFHV DUH SHU SHUVRQ VKDULQJ 6XEMHFW WR DYDLODELOLW\ 7KRPSVRQV 6WDQGDUG 7HUPV DQG &RQGLWLRQV DSSO\ ( 2(
R16 659
(Add levy ex JNB/DUR/CPT R 541)
VALID UNTIL 20 JUL ‘10. REF: 25905
7 NIGHTS - 5* BREEZES BEACH CLUB, ZANZIBAR ex JNB R12 049 ALSO INCLUDES: $LUOLQH OHY\ VALID 01 SEP - 31 OCT ‘10. REF: 25841
7 NIGHTS - 5* THE RESIDENCE, MAURITIUS ex JNB/DUR R14 299 ex CPT R15 499 (Add levy ex JNB/DUR R1 910 ex CPT R2 562) VALID 16 JUL - 19 SEP ‘10. REF: 25861
32 Years of Remarkable Service, Expert Knowledge and Best Deals 3038 TNW Indian oceans Half-pg ad.indd 1
12 n Wednesday June 23 2010
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QUICK READ FOR DECISION-MAKERS
NEWS
F
tball Fever!
The soccer bug has bitten as the travel industry shows its GEES...
Uniglobe has gees! Uniglobe Ikhwezi Travel recently marched to Sandton City to show their spirit and support for Bafana Bafana. Joining the festivities are Christal Ebraham and Hasina Deedat
On the road again… Gearing up for a bumper World Cup is Gap Adventures as it launches its series of World Cup overland tours. The overland truck is making its way across Johannesburg to visit travel agents this week to advertise Gap’s Durban to Port Elizabeth, Pretoria to Cape Town and Pretoria to Durban overland experiences. Pictured here ready for the great trek are (top, from left) Diana Jordaan, sales; and Jane Rezac, marketing; with (front, from left) Carolina de Figueiredo, Gap product manager; Jackie Adami, sales and marketing director; and Sam Joffe, sales Photo: Natalia Thomson
Foozie challenge Tempest Car Hire has set up foozi tables at its kiosks in OR Tambo, Cape Town and King Shaka international airports. Two car-rental teams recently came together to challenge each other to a game. Going head to head are (from left) Europcar SA customer liaison consultant, Craig van Niekerk, and Tempest Car Hire regional operations manager of Gauteng, Jody Naidoo
Slipping iDiski!
KQ shows spirit Kenya Airways recently joined in the festivities of the Human Chain held in Sandton in support of Bafana Bafana. Pictured here, showing their soccer spirit, are from left: Helena Maxwell (sales manager), Rosemary Adogo (Southern Africa area manager), Bathi Pendu (head of groups department), Rose Muthamia (station accountant) and Joseph Mukwevho (KQ’s right-hand man)
QUICK READ FOR busiest people
Uni Travel and colleagues had their feet firmly behind Bafana Bafana as they learned the Diski Dance recently to celebrate South Africa's hosting of the 2010 World Cup. Pictured here after an exhausting afternoon of learning the five-step routine are (from left) SAA's Tozama Magobiyane, Uni Travel's Christine Bromley, Frances Martin from Avis and Lusana Jonas, SAA
Wednesday June 23 2010 n 13
NEWS
Rezidor continues expansion Take note – Danish Schengen visas! FROM June 1, the Danish Consulate and Embassy have outsourced their visa processing to VFS Visa Processing South Africa. Visa applications are to be submitted either at the Denmark Visa Application Centre operated by VFS in Pretoria, or Consulate of Denmark in Cape Town and
Durban. All applications will be assessed by the Embassy of Denmark, Pretoria. The Denmark Visa Application Centre offers the option of courier service for return of documents submitted. Applications will no longer be accepted from visa couriers or travel agencies. â–
The new Radisson Blu Gautrain Sandton Natasha Tippel
T
!" # $ %#$& ' ' ( ' # ' $ ' ) ' '
HE Rezidor Hotel Group has an aggressive growth strategy for 2010. This is the word from vice president of business development for Africa and the Indian Ocean Islands, Andrew McLachlan. In the last 36 months the group has grown from eight hotels in five countries in Africa to 35 hotels in 14 countries. “We believe Rezidor has a two-year window of opportunity to push developments before other international brands become as active in Africa,� says Andrew. “My goal is to close 10 deals in 2010. One of those deals is the Radisson Blu Kigali, which has already been sealed. By the end of the quarter we hope to announce another two. The balance of the deals will be in East Africa, West Africa, South Africa and the Indian Ocean Islands.� Rezidor plans to open six hotels in Africa, three of which are in SA – the Radisson Blu Gautrain Sandton, Park Inn Sandton, and Radisson Blu Blaauwberg. The other three Radisson hotels will open
in Lagos, Nigeria; Maputo, Mozambique; and Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. The group is also targeting existing properties in South Africa that it hopes to sign within the course of this year. “Rezidor hotels breed Rezidor hotels. The more people experience the Radisson Blu or Park Inn brands the more demand we see for our hotels,� says Andrew. A perfect example being the Radisson Blu Sandton and its sister hotel, the new Radisson Blu Gautrain Sandton, situated within a kilometre of each other. “Rezidor planned to offer 500 Radisson Blu rooms in the Sandton precinct on a daily basis, something we felt was achievable in the market. This could have come in the form of one large hotel or several. After evaluating the site, we decided it made commercial sense to have two hotels in the area,� says Andrew. Rezidor has the same philosophy in other cities. Andrew notes that Cape Town could have 400 Radisson
Blu rooms. “If we see the opportunity to establish a second property, we will do so. The same philosophy applies to our mid-market brand, Park Inn.â€? Andrew believes there will be more opportunities for developments after the World Cup, specifically with Rezidor’s Park Inn brand, which, he says, has long-term growth opportunity because there is space in the midmarket for this kind of brand, especially in secondary cities. “I expect, initially, a small dip in occupancy after the World Cup but SA is fortunate that we will be moving into high summer season from November. The world looks like it is coming out of the recession and this bodes well for the fourth quarter of 2010. I don’t think we will see the immediate effects of the exposure South Africa will receive over the World Cup but it is a great time to capture new markets. The World Cup can help reposition SA as a safe, friendly, affordable destination if we can pull off a great event!â€? Andrew concludes. â–
New port security at Barcelona
# $ * #$ Jeanette Phillips
+ ' #$ " 4 5 6 7 6 (" -./ 012 2821 , " -./ 012 2/03
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CRUISES International has advised that, with immediate effect, security procedures at the port of Barcelona have changed. All guests are now required
to carry a second form of photo identification, such as a driver’s licence or ID book when boarding, in addition to their official travel document. The documents are checked after check-in but before boarding, as many
EU or non-Schengen region guests will already have handed over their passports at check-in. The new security procedure applies to all cruise lines represented by Cruises International. â–
TNW4036
14 n Wednesday June 23 2010
QUICK READ FOR DECISION-MAKERS
COMMUNITYNEWS
Appointments
EXCITING OPPORTUNITIES for EXPERIENCED TRAVEL
â– Claudia Armstrong has joined Fairlawns Boutique C Hotel and Spa as sales and M marketing manager. She worked with gm, Michael Y Kewley, during his time with CM The Palazzo and was previously employed by Southern Sun for MY nearly 10 years.
â– The Taj Cape Town has appointed a dedicated Gauteng sales manager. Annande Lambrechts (right) brings considerable experience to the team having worked at five-star hotels in both Cape Town and Johannesburg. She joins Nicolene Kotze, the Cape Town sales manager responsible for the corporate and leisure markets, and Leanne Solomon, who looks after conference and government business as well as Cape-based corporates.
CY
â– Lyrene Zimmerman CMY has been appointed new marketing and sales directorK of ICC Durban. She previously worked with the Virgin Group, marketing Richard Branson's game reserve in the Sabi Sand then headed up the global sales and marketing for Tswalu Kalahari, a reserve in Northern Cape.
CONSULTANTS
If you have: t t t t t
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#3"/% ."/"(&3 INTERMEDIATE WHOLESALE /035)&3/ 46#63#4 CONSULTANT/SANDTON 1FSTPO TUSPOH JO .BSLFUJOH JOWJUFE UP KPJO Excellent South Africa knowledge and MFBEJOH 8IPMFTBMFS groups experience to join leading Inbound Operator!!! 4&/*03 $0/46-5"/5 #0,4#63( +PJO XFMM FTUBCMJTIFE GSJFOEMZ DPNQBOZ BOE XPSL RELIEF ASSISTANT LODGE MANAGER DMPTFS UP IPNF Experienced person to work closely with Lodge & Ops Managers!! TNW2048 TNW2048
PIETERMARITZBURG
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Our website is updated daily! Visit www.specialized.co.za AVIATION DIVISION: It is six months since Specialized Aviation was launched and we would like to acknowledge and thank both existing and new customers for having entrusted us with their Airline and Aviation recruitment requirements. Consequently, we are proud to report an impressive 70% placement record, proving our key understanding of related roles with quality candidates. In our quest to enhance our services even further, we will be launching new and exciting product initiatives with a selection of attractive packages, in keeping with different customer requirements and marketing trends. WATCH THIS SPACE - PREVIEW FLYER AVAILABLE! For further information: Specialized Aviation Personnel Tel: 011 884-9113 email: joyce@sgroup.co.za “We are the leaders in Airline & Aviation recruitment!"
TRAVEL DIVISION Travel Manager – Jhb CBD Be employed by large corporation supervising a team of 6 consultants. Candidates must have previous people management experience, have strong international fares knowledge and be able to guide consultants regarding complex international routings; group bookings; and visa requirements. Strong destination knowledge is also required. R20000 ctc. An initial 6 month contract with view to permanent. Kati Account Manager – Gauteng Report to the National Sales Manager of highly regarded car rental company. Will be responsible for corporate business development; growing and maintaining existing clients and identifying new revenue channels. Candidates must be well networked within the travel and corporate environment and have previous corporate sales experience. R10000 to R14000 plus monthly commission and full company car. Kati Operations Manager – Cape Town Your previous management experience within the travel industry, together with strong sales and marketing skills are required by highly reputable inbound operation. Kati Senior Consultant – East Rand Move between different inhouse operations within the East Rand area handling senior corporate consulting functions. Will be working on Amadeus. Commencement date is 01 August 2010. Enjoy the benefits of working for a large, highly successful travel company. Tina Have you handled Group bookings?? If so, an excellent opportunity awaits you based at an inhouse operation in the Swartkops area. Interesting work and pleasant work environment! Tina
A WORLD CLASS CORPORATE TRAVEL MANAGEMENT COMPANY
1MFBTF 5BLF /PUF PG 0VS /FX 5FMFQIPOF /P
CONTACT WENDY/KIM TEL: 011Contact 465 8221 FAX: 086 538 5889 Wendy/Kim E-MAIL: wtp@icon.co.za (011) 704 4909 or e-mail: wtp@icon.co.za
SPECIALIZED TRAVEL PERSONNEL
CAPE TOWN PRETORIA
TNW4028SD
34 years of quality service Proven • Trusted • National
Inbound Consultant – Cape Town Your previous inbound consulting experience will be appreciated by this international company. Enjoy the benefits of a highly successful operation whilst handling the full portfolio of inbound travel. Kati Inbound Incentives Cons – N/Suburbs Jhb Will handle the function from start to finish, working for well established operator. Previous incentives and inbound experience is essential & the company is prepared to reward this expertise with a top salary. Kati Assistant to Account Executive – N/W Suburbs As Assistant to an Account Executive within busy incentives company, the job description will be diverse and challenging. Candidates who have completed an Event Management diploma and have some working experience will be well suited. A travel industry background is not required. The ability to frequently travel and work long hours is essential. Kati
lee botti & associates
Financial Manager – Cape Town Your financial expertise within the travel industry and ability to work independently will be greatly appreciated and highly rewarded by this top agency. Pastel and Quicktrav required. Kati
www.leebotti.co.za enquiries@nowjobs.co.za
Office Hrs (011) 884-9113 Website: www.specialized.co.za e-mail: kati@sgroup.co.za or tina@sgroup.co.za
SPECIALISTS IN THE RECRUITMENT OF STAFF FOR THE LOGISTICS INDUSTRY
TNW0714
Births, deaths, marriages, promotions – we want to know! Please fax or e-mail TNW's Jeanette Phillips, at jeanettep@nowmedia.co.za or (011) 327 4094.
jobs
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QUICK READ FOR busiest people
Wednesday June 23 2010 n 15
TNW NEWS
Tempting Thailand – a threat to Mauritius? Natasha Tippel
Going East The Holiday Factory has expanded its portfolio to add the Far East to its collection of destinations. “We are delighted to add both Thailand and Bali to our current portfolio,� says md, Jackie Turnbull. “The Far East has proven to be a very popular destination for the South African market as it continues to provide unsurpassed value for money and we are very excited about the vast travel potential presented by the destination.� Recently joining The Holiday Factory team to head up the Far East department are Far East specialists, Meenakshi Kara (right) and Marilyn Padiachy Photo: Tijana Huysamen
Air Zim goes JNB-Vic Falls Jeanette Phillips AIR Zimbabwe has introduced flights from Johannesburg to Victoria Falls. The three-weekly service is operated by a B737 departing
Johannesburg at 09h30, arriving in Victoria Falls at 11h15 on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays. The return service departs Victoria Falls at 12h30, arriving in Johannesburg at 14h15 on the same days. â–
T
HAILAND is quickly becoming hot competition for Mauritius as a holiday destination for South Africans. The reintroduction of direct flights from SA on Thai Airways means Thailand is more accessible. It is also a less expensive vacation option and is often perceived as more exotic. “Direct flights will definitely spark interest in the South African market to travel to Thailand as flying time is reduced and Thailand as a destination also offers competitive, affordable packages, which include flights and accommodation,� says manager of Travellers’ Choice, Marius Venter. Md of Club Med SA, Elaine Youngleson, says Mauritius tourism taking a knock from Thailand could become a reality, although Club Med has not felt this switch yet. “Those selling cheaper hotels would.� But although Thailand is likely to become a competing
destination to Mauritius, some operators believe the impact will be slight. “Each destination attracts a different clientele,� says Otto de Vries, md of Holiday Tours. “Mauritius will always be popular, especially for family holidays and honeymoons. The current fares to Thailand are exceptional but Thailand holidays are generally bed and breakfast based. Mauritius goes from half board to all inclusive. Furthermore, Mauritius is only a four-hour flight from SA while Bangkok is just over 11 hours.� Marketing and reservations manager of The Holiday Factory, Flora Fubbs, agrees, saying that the destinations appeal to different types of travellers and that both Thailand and Mauritius have their own unique selling points. “When it comes to leisure, clients will be more swayed by the price comparisons between the two destinations but from an incentive travelling point of view, we find that our clients who need to cater
for very large groups usually prefer short-haul destinations such as Mauritius, where more than one airline services the destination and where there is the option of chartering flights.� Thailand, she says, is more appealing for smaller incentive groups that focus on targeted driven incentives as it is more difficult to fly large groups to Thailand as it is a long-haul destination with fewer frequent direct flights than Mauritius. But sales to Thailand are booming. Travel Vision’s sales to Thailand in 2010 are running at record levels, says sales and marketing director, David Bradshaw. “The introduction of the Thai Airways service certainly helps but our sales were good before they started, so it’s not entirely down to the new flights. “Thailand is a dream destination with great value hotels, great shopping and a large variety of countrywide resorts to choose from. Eating out is very inexpensive as is transport,� says David.
If the price is right!
Mauritius will remain competitive, says md of NaĂŻade Holidays, Matthew Fubbs, as long as the price is right. But can it compete Agents ‘blogging’ this on price with Thailand? 71: 3ROO VSRQVRUVKLS 723 9 3 ) LQGG “Mauritius is a rip-off As part of the new-look eTNW, would you like us to incorporate an compared to Thailand! operational blog? If you're without kiddies Thailand is by far the best option!â€? says senior travel consultant at
â– Yes 67% â– No 33%
gask | 0976 | TNW | poll
16 n Wednesday June 23 2010
taxes of R1 750) valid for travel from July 17 to September 15. Meanwhile, Avocatur is offering 10 nights in Thailand from R3 699. It includes accommodation at Baramee Hip Hotel Patong, breakfast daily, transfers, a tour of Phuket, and return flights ex-JNB (excl. taxes), valid until September 15. â–
US implements secure flight programme From page 1
“How about including up-to-date news on what is happening in the travel industry? Not only good deals, and movement of staff but other interesting things like good/bad restaurants, hotels places that people have visited and can give you updated feedback for you to pass on to your clients.� Dawn Foster, Sure Travelways
Wynberg Executive Travel, Elzaan de Wit. TNW pulled specials from Travelinfo to compare holiday rates to both destinations. Avocatur is offering a fivenight special to Mauritius for R5 299. It includes accommodation at Foxhill Villas, daily breakfast and theme dinners, transfers, return flight ex-JNB (excl.
airline at least 72 hours prior to departure. Around 99% of passengers will be cleared by Secure Flight to print boarding passes at home by providing their date of birth, gender and name as it appears on the government ID they plan to use when travelling and when booking airline tickets. In addition to facilitating secure travel for all passengers, the programme helps prevent the misidentification of passengers who have names similar to individuals on government watch lists. SFPD data may be collected at the time of making a ticketed booking (preferred
option) or at any time up to 72 hours prior to departure. The airline will transmit this information to the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) 72 hours prior to departure to perform watch list matching (security checks on passenger names). After matching passenger information against government watch lists, the TSA transmits the matching results back to the airlines. Bookings that are made within 72 hours of departure must include minimum SFPD (full name, gender, and date of birth). In such cases, the secure flight data will have to be captured at point of sale and will be sent immediately
for security checks. If SFPD are not displayed in a booking at least 72 hours prior to departure, the TSA may require the booking to be cancelled. In addition, the passenger may experience additional security checks and may not be allowed to board the flight. Also, it is expected that airlines will be fined by the TSA. SFPD does not replace the requirement for APIS data; it is an additional requirement. Group bookings will continue to follow existing RM PSPT for APIS collection which will cover the SFPD requirements. It's expected that Secure Flight will be used by all airlines by the end of 2010. â–
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