Travel News Weekly - 16_23 December 09 by Now Media

December 16/23 2009 I No. 2088

SOuTHERN AFRiCA’S TRAVEL NEWS WEEKLY

INSIDE

TRAVEL NEWS WEEKLY

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SEaSoN’S GrEETiNGS!

TNW wishes all its readers a joyful festive season and a peaceful and prosperous New Year. Now Media’s offices close on December 15 and reopen on January 5, 2010.

2010 – it’s looking good! As 2009 draws to a close, industry bosses are optimistic about what the future holds. Melody Brandon reports on their predictions for 2010… the international exposure the World Cup brings will stimulate inbound tourism beyond 2010.” Rodney James, ceo of 1time, is optimistic about business and leisure travel in 2010. “If 2009, and especially December, is anything to gauge the prospects for the travel industry by, then my hopes are very high for 2010. Although the usual slower months of January and February are expected.”

“If 2009, and especially December, is anything to gauge the prospects for the travel industry by, then my hopes are very high for 2010.” Retail bosses say they are cautiously optimistic about what the new year will bring and warn that recovery from the 2009 recession backlash may take time. Ceo of Travel Vision, Dharmesh Kooverjee, estimates that the impact of the recession will reverberate in the first half of 2010 before there is a noticeable improvement. “We have already

experienced an increase in future bookings. There are two important elements to survival next year: be mindful of costs and have a good working relationship with your bank!” Sure Tours ceo, Miles Willis, agrees that the road to recovery will be a slow one. “I think the economy will recover about 1% to 2%. 2010 will definitely be an improvement on 2009. I don’t think we should get carried away next year. The healing will begin and there will certainly be positive spin-offs from the Soccer World Cup.” Wally Gaynor, md of Club Travel, says while the 2010 Soccer World Cup will pose challenges for agents, there are still opportunities to get clients out of the country over June and July. “The planes coming in June will be full and will go back empty. The planes going back in July will be full but empty coming back in, giving South Africans who want to leave the country an opportunity to do so at a good price.” Asata ceo, Robyn Christie, predicts that while it will be a good year, 2010 will be not be easy. She says communication within the industry is vital for a successful 2010. “Retailers need to have more effective

‘Tis the season Thompsons ran an in-house competition with all the departments decorating their offices for the festive season. Much fun was had by all while painting, cutting, pasting and adding sparkles to heaps of decorations. Pictured here are Vivienne Mellows and Sashnee Moodley exchanging gifts Photo: Tijana Huysamen dialogue with suppliers and vice versa. We all need to make sure we understand each other.”

Valuable lessons

Sales and marketing manager of Budget Car Rental, Ray Booth, believes a number of useful lessons have come from the challenges of 2009. “We should be proud of ourselves for being able to adapt and move forward. I think it has reminded us all that with a bit of thought and proper planning we can get through anything.” He adds that the recession has forced the industry to

“get back to basics”. “Being aware of your expenses and cutting back where you can are important for the survival of any business at any time.” Ce of Avis, Wayne Duvenage, is also confident that 2010 will be a good year for the South African car-rental industry. “From the outset, the year will be positively up on 2009. I expect this to be one amazing year that we will reflect on for years to come and one which, if we get it right, will win us lots of tourist friends for decades, and possibly the Olympics.” For a look at the year that was, go to page 12. n

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NDUSTRY bosses are optimistic that 2010 will be an improvement on its predecessor and say lessons learnt from a tough 2009 will stand the industry in good stead for the year to come. “We may be toasting the New Year in with sparkling wine rather than Champagne but we have all made it through 2009!” says BA spokesman, Stephen Forbes. The airline’s operating challenges are well documented. In early November BA reported an operating loss of £111m (R1,4bn) and a pre-tax loss of £292m (R3,6bn). “We’ve been through a terrible year and there will be no sudden bounce back. We can’t just keep doing business as usual and hope for the best – innovation and finding smarter ways of working will be key for 2010.” Sue Botes, BA commercial manager for South Africa says the airline is considering increasing flights as World Cup-related travel interest peaks. “We don’t think there’ll be a sudden bounce back in the outbound market in 2010, as this will be linked to how the economy performs. We anticipate a slow recovery. Long-term we’re hopeful that

NEWS

to the point

SAA signs deal with Match Melody Brandon

HE groupings of teams for the 2010 Soccer World Cup have been announced but agents will have to wait for airlines to determine their allocation and pricing before booking their clients’ June holidays. Concerns that South Africa will be in “lock down” during the sports event have been expressed by retailers and suppliers alike. The 2010 World Cup Local Organising Committee has undertaken to investigate the high price of airline tickets over the period (see TNW December 2). Meantime, SAA has closed

a deal with Match, the official provider of tickets, accommodation and logistics, that will see the national carrier providing 89 000 sectors for Match customers. “SAA is the first airline on the African continent to conclude a deal with Match. We eagerly await next year’s event and the opportunity to welcome fans from across the globe to our beautiful country,” said Chris Smyth, SAA acting ceo. Chris said SAA would be working closely with Match to find ways of transporting customers to smaller venues such as Nelspruit, Bloemfontein and Polokwane.

● Rwandair now operates daily services to Johannesburg. The Kigali-JNB service has increased from one to three and the Kigali-BujumburaJNB service from three to four weekly. Flights depart Kigali at 13h00, arriving in Johannesburg at 16h50. The return service departs JNB at 19h00, arriving in Kigali at 22h50. The KigaliBujumbura-JNB service departs Kigali at 13h00 and arrives in Bujumbura at 13h25. It departs Bujumbura at 13h55, arriving in Johannesburg at 17h50. The return service departs JNB at 19h00, arriving in Bujumbura at 22h50 from where it departs at 23h20, arriving in Kigali at 23h45.

Here they are! The groups are: Group A: South Africa Mexico Uruguay France

Group B: Argentina Nigeria South Korea Greece

Group C: England USA Algeria Slovenia

Group D: Germany Australia Serbia Ghana

Group E: Holland Denmark Japan Cameroon

Group F: Italy Paraguay New Zealand Slovakia

Group G: Brazil North Korea Cote d’Ivoire Portugal

Group H: Spain Switzerland Honduras Chile

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For more information on dates and venues where matches will be played, visit www.mtnfootball.com ■

Airlink appoints independent expert to review safety Jeanette Phillips AIRLINK has appointed an independent expert to review the airline’s safety processes and procedures following its latest accident, one of three incidents involving the airline in less than four months. In a statement released by the airline, it said that it was co-operating with the South African Civil Aviation Authority’s ongoing audit of the airline’s operational, maintenance, training and recruiting procedures and processes. “Safety and the wellbeing of our passengers, crew and aircraft is our top priority and it is essential that we always operate professionally and safely.

TRAVEL NEWS WEEKLY

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EDITORIAL Editor: Natalia Thomson nataliat@nowmedia.co.za Sub-Editor: Ann Braun annb@nowmedia.co.za Cape Town Editor: Hilka Birns hilkab@nowmedia.co.za Journalists: Jeanette Phillips jeanettep@nowmedia.co.za Natasha Tippel natashat@nowmedia.co.za Melody Brandon melodyb@nowmedia.co.za Photo Journalist: Tijana Huysamen tijanah@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: Brendon Bester

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While we are confident that Airlink complies with South African and international regulation and best practice, if there are gaps, then we want to know where they are and we will implement whatever measures are necessary to close them,” said Airlink ceo and md, Rodger Foster. According to Rodger, for this reason the airline has approached a recently retired senior SAA expert on airline flight safety to conduct a thorough and independent review of the airline’s procedures and processes. “I have called for the net to be cast wide. The review will examine numerous aspects including our leadership structure, cockpit

resource management techniques, compliance with regulatory and standard operating procedures and training,” he said. ● Editor’s note: At the time of going to press, there were unconfirmed reports that the Transport Minister, Sibusiso Ndebele, was considering grounding Airlink, giving the airline 48 hours to explain its recent spate of crashes. Airlink spokesperson, Karin Murray, has denied these media reports. According to Karin, the latest incident was unrelated to the previous incidents and will be investigated as such. She continued to say that there was not enough reason to ground the airline. ■

Travel Crossings: it’s a waiting game Jeanette Phillips A NEW executor for tour operator, Travel Crossings, is expected to be announced this week, according to law firm Mathys Krog Attorneys. The company’s former md, Jacques Bezuidenhout, first announced the company’s liquidation in early October, and so far affected agents and clients are little or no wiser as to the way forward. After the first law firm resigned from the case, Jacques undertook to deal with any queries personally until a new liquidator was

appointed by the court, but he fell ill and asked that all queries be directed to Mathys Krog from Mathys Krog Attorneys. However, travel agents should not set their hopes on receiving back monies lost or expect the case to be concluded shortly. Jo Meintjes of Jo Meintjes Travel told TNW that the attorneys told her to wait another week when a liquidator was expected to be appointed and that it would then be up to her to deal with the appointed company or person. She

was also told she might not get any money back and it might take anything from six months to a year until it was resolved. In October Jacques said several factors had led to the downfall of the company, including the huge downturn in the economy; the fact that certain airlines were “undercutting” their airfares to direct clients, leaving tour operators in the cold; and “unfair competition” where suppliers favoured certain operators by giving them better rates (TNW, October 21, 2009). ■

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NEWS

Get Beachcomber quotes 24/7 Natasha Tippel

EACHCOMBER has officially launched its online quoting system for travel agents this month. The BRAINS programme allows agents access to Beachcomber tailor-made packages 24 hours a day, seven days a week. The system also lets agents compare room category rates and different hotel options with live availability. BRAINS development manager, Sam Gleeson, says: “Our priority is to ensure our agents have access to the best technological tools in the trade, making their service to their clients more professional and instantaneous.” A unique feature of Beachcomber Online is that agents are able to view all quotes, including those generated by their colleagues in the same agency, allowing them to assist a colleague’s client should the colleague not be available. Agents can also view quotes online that

were processed for them by a Beachcomber consultant in the main system. All quote information is therefore directly accessible and each agent’s log of quotes is saved on the database for reference at any time. A complete commission breakdown is also available for target-conscious agents. In addition, clients can be shown the hotel on the website – pictures, room layouts and general information – while obtaining rates for the hotel. “Beachcomber online quoting has been developed to ensure this ‘double mechanism’ is available to busy agents, making the agent appear more professional to their client and also enabling them to close the sale quicker and more efficiently,” says systems manager, Lee Munro. The programme has been launched in stages to ensure various back-office operations have run smoothly. “From the agencies that have been trained so far the feedback has been very positive and

enthusiastic,” says Sam. “The quote mechanism is simple and effortless. Accommodation availability is live and guaranteed and additional information on room configuration is on hand when processing the quote.” Sharon Johnstone, a consultant at BeachTAG, says Beachcomber Online is “user friendly and efficient, easy to follow through and closes the time gap between agent and client. The information on rooming categories is particularly helpful when trying to find the best price for your clients”. To access the system, register by clicking on the ‘Agents Sign In’ indicator on Beachcomber’s homepage. Should agents have a query or require advice for their clients, they can contact Beachcomber’s Res Team by telephone during office hours. Meanwhile, Beachcomber plans to launch an online payment mechanism early in the new year – watch this space! ■

Visit China with Wendy Wu Wendy Wu Tours has launched its 2010/11 brochure. With broad experience of China and Indochina, Wendy Wu has designed varied itineraries to suit clients and their interests. The 2010 brochure has some new tours, including some that focus on ‘old’ China and one focused on Sichuan – the land of the Panda. The World Expo that takes place in Shanghai from May to October is also featured, including short stays for the expo. Pictured here from left are Alet Joubert, business development manager, and Cecilia Dos Reis, senior tour consultant Photo: Tijana Huysamen

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s ’ n o s a e S reetings

WINNER!

For 2010 I have a hope That we as agents learn to cope With waitlist seats and flight delays I pray for stress-free, peaceful days I wish to always stand the heat For that elusive Voyager seat! I want us all to love our land And please let’s have a stable rand! I wish to know all product ranges And pre-predict all schedule changes I wish for specials all year round Even for the inward-bound And finally to lead the pack.... I wish that FIFA gives seats back! Maggie Casewell, Prospur Travel

l Jacobs, From back left: Jil The Prospur girls! cinda Lee, Sharon Carolus and Lu Maggie Casewell, Nadia Horn

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Pam, Kati and the Specialized Personnel team wish all their clients and candidates a Happy   Festive Season and an extra special 2010!!  

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I’m looking forward to starting a family in 2010 and, of course, the 2010 Soccer World Cup. South Africans should be proud to host such an event in their country. Amanda Gravelet-Blondin, CJ United Travel

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2010 – what a year it will be. The World Cup is coming to South Africa and everyone is going to see what a great place we live in. But it’s not just that to get excited about: I predict a bumper year in the travel industry; people will be inspired to try new places, see more events, and enjoy more quality, family time. I cannot wait. See you in 2010! Alice Jones, Pentravel Kloof

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The best gift for me would be marking the end of the recession. Come to think of it, it would be the biggest gift for every individual on planet earth. What’s more, marking the end of recession so every kid gets a Barbie doll or bicycle for Christmas. Beginning the new year on a very exciting and high note with fewer worries and also looking forward to the gigantic event South Africa is hosting. Wishing you all a very merry Christmas and prosperous new year! Bongani Kodisang, South African Reynolds Travel Centre

All I want for Christmas is…

NOTHER year draws to a close and, after a challenging 2009, Travel News Weekly is looking ahead to a bright and exciting new year. We asked travel agents to tell us what they were looking forward to in 2010 with a hamper on offer for the winner. The prize went to Maggie Casewell from Prospur Travel in Cape Town who shared her wishes with us in an entertaining and creative poem (see left). 2010 is probably the most exciting year in a very long time. Along with the obvious, like the Soccer World Cup, there are things like hot summer nights and chilly winter afternoons walking in a park as the leaves fall. New beginnings, fresh starts, new targets and promises. The most exciting part of 2010 for me is to watch my baby girl take her first steps and say her first words. To watch her character develop into a little girl is going to be so amazing. This reason alone will make my year the best ever – getting to know somebody who will always be a part of you. No World Cup could even compare. Catherine Long, Flight Centre 2010 is looking to be a promising year and I’m looking forward to an end to the recession and a big burden being lifted off everyone’s shoulders as we welcome the world to our wonderful country and show them what SA is really about. With all the negativity surrounding the country and the progress towards 2010, it’ll be great for everyone to come together and enjoy the hype of the World Cup and the excitement it brings. Hopefully the recession will come to an end and we can look forward to good times again with fewer job losses and less stress for everyone. Chantelle Meyer, Tropical Island Tours I’m looking forward to the 2010 World Cup . Dineo Maduna, Sure Corporate Travel Samber I truly wish that the travel industry stabilises and pulls together to make 2010 a success for visitors. I hope that all the small tour operators out there manage to survive and strengthen so that we can improve the way we are viewed in the travel industry. There is enough for everyone and we should all work towards happiness and success. Nicole Staffen, Augusta Tours What a privilege to still be able to get up every morning with the power of the Lord. I would like every family to have food on their table. My greatest desire is to have my children with me for Christmas and to spoil my grandchildren. I also wish that every family will be happy together. God is still very good to South Africa, only more of us should be positive towards each other. Shirley Ann Olivier, Tourvest Travel Services I wish more than anything, that 2010 will sincerely be a showpiece for our country. I hope that fans will have a fantastic and safe experience in our country and realise what wonderful people South Africans are. I wish well being and camaraderie between agents and operators, good faith, passion and superb service delivery and may we all reap the rewards next year – roll on 2010! Rachael Penaluna, Sure Corporate Bleeker Travel QUICK READ FOR DECISION-MAKERS

ie, Benvenuti, Liz Powr ary M vel – front: Gloria Sure Penzance Tra ck: Kerry Ellison, Milly Ntsuntsha, . Ba Maryke Ciorovich , Natasha Goslin Goslin, Ann Hains My personal wish for 2010 is to adopt another baby! We adopted a little boy (now three years old) in 2007 and my wish for 2010 is to give him a little sister, which I’m already working on. Lindsay Ransom, Pentravel Cresta I’m looking forward to celebrating my two-year anniversary with my boyfriend at Margate beach in 2010. Jessica Hampton, Sure Adcocks Travel In 2010, I look forward to making more time for my son and husband, getting my priorities straight, saving time and money and losing the 2009 weight! Tracey Schoeman, Sure Travel King William’s Town

I’m looking forward to: ● The SA economy taking a turn for the better and business picking up to its former glory ● As a result of the better economy, happy clients to deal with ● Without saying, the 2010 Soccer World Cup ● Lower crime rates so that we do not scare away millions of potential tourists from our beautiful country ● Awesome incentives and competitions from suppliers and tour operators ● Bookings streaming in for 2011’s Rugby World Cup in Ireland! ● Awesome agent specials ● Excellent workshops on TI ● Loads of brand new hotels opening their doors ● Educationals! Maryke Ciorovich, Sure Penzance Travel

I am looking forward to abundance and change in 2010 for the country and my life. It seems as though a lot of people are going to get their big breaks next year. Stop moaning about 2009, 2010 is around the corner! Great opportunities, great rewards! It’s going to be a year we are going to be talking about forever! Enjoyed by the many that witnessed it, we will be proud for centuries to come. Sharmila Mohlari, Harvey World Travel Woodmead

Tourvest Travel Services – back: Marius Swanepoel, Lize Felix, Werner de Kock, Gaby Christen, Rene Hoosain. Front: Khasiefah Ponto, Liesl Thomas, Nabuwiyah Cassiem

For people to stop, smile and acknowledge the person next to them and to keep doing this in 2010! C’mon we are a friendly nation! Let’s show the world this ahead, during and after the World Cup. Best wishes to all of us in the travel industry and our families, partners and friends for putting up with us! Marius Swanepoel, Tourvest Travel Services As this gloomy year draws to a close, I wish for a buzz in our country, like in 1995 (If I close my eyes I can still feel that buzz – I get goose bumps all over). I hope the 2010 World Cup will inject lots of money and lots of business into our country, especially for us in the travel trade. On the global front, I pray the US withdraws from all the countries it wants to own and try sorting out its own problems. I hope everyone sits up, stops talking and having meetings about world hunger and climate change, and does something about it! Our office is made up of five branches with a diversity of cultures from Hindu and Moslems to Christians. I wish all my colleagues a festive season filled with love, laughter and good times. May we all grow together and learn from each other to enrich our lives and others. Tania Rabdi, Harvey World Travel Woodmead

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RAVELBAGS held its annual Christmas luncheon on November 27 at the Indaba Hotel in Johannesburg. In true Travelbags style it was great fun with the usual mischief and surprises. All the proceeds of the day went to the Ann Harding Cheshire Home for the Disabled. TNW journalist Jeanette Phillips and photo journalist Tijana Huysamen were there to snap some photos and bring you the industry’s wishes and tips for 2010.

Bags of fun and good wishes!

d phrasia Daniels an Travel Centre’s Eu okings South African Park for 2010 is: “Let those 2010 bo sh Vanesha Harry’s wi y to be of service!” roll in. We are read

Wilco van Eede Gabellone (Thr n (Club Travel Honeydew), Ja ee Travel Ontdekk Cities) and Leon Smith (H cque ar er is a day spent s) believe that “a day spen vey World well”. t giving love

t), Peter Schoeman Belinda Coetzee (Travelbags presiden (Bopelo Tours) ard Barn ius (City Lodge Hotels) and Mar – enjoy the festive – “May 2010 be your money market season.” 6 n Wednesday December 16/23 2009

Dezy Krause, Kosie fer ha Nages, Lelanie Sc Flight m fro l Ne a and Lis ing sh wi Centre are s for for: “Huge succes to d an p Cu rld the Wo and double up the joy in 09 20 of s es succ 2010.”

Lisa Roos, Debora Se (back), Corinne Gr kano obbler, Michelle Cousins an de Beer from Temp d Karin Hire, believe that est Car “it is great being part of the travel industry. Ne tworking is of importance, and friendship”

hire Ann Harding Ches and os Ro m ille W ’s Home sh Lyndall Roman’s wi ple eo for 2010 is that “p way e should change th and y, they see disabilit lity bi ina sta su l cia an fin ”. me ho for our

Jessica Quinn, Jenene Bernhardt and Jorinda Schutte from Serengeti Golf and Wildlife Esta te say: “Serengeti is wishing you a hole-in-one for 2010 . Merry Christmas!” QUICK READ FOR DECISION-MAKERS

NEWS

2010 – bring it on!

As yet another year winds down, TNW wishes all our readers good health, happiness and joy over the festive season and warm wishes for a successful, fun and rewarding 2010! Looking forward to the new year with festive cheer are the TNW team – front, from left: Jeanette Phillips (journalist), Natalia Thomson (editor), Brendon Bester (designer); middle row, from left: Kate Nathan (outbound sales manager), Natalie Walker (advertising co-ordinator); back row, from left: Yolanda Katsi (sales assistant), Natasha Tippel (journalist), Ann Braun (sub-editor) and Tijana Huysamen (photographer). Absent: Melody Brandon (journalist) and Hilka Birns (Cape Town editor)

Core Travel takes on Cosmos Globus GSA Staff

reporter

ORE Travel has been appointed GSA for Cosmos Globus in South Africa. Globus was established in Switzerland in 1928. Its brands include Globus Coach Tours, offering a selection of four- and five-star hotels; Cosmos Coach Tours offering a selection of three- and four-star hotels and Avalon Waterways, which owns a fleet of 10 luxury cruise vessels offering river cruises along Europe’s waterways. Core Travel owner Keith Gow says Globus has been represented in SA for 30

years. “Over 60 000 South Africans have travelled on Cosmos Coach Tours or on up-market Globus Coach Tours.” Next year will be a good one for coach travel to Europe and the United States and Canada, says Keith. “The rand has appreciated about 25% to around R8 to the US dollar from a low of R10,30 and airfares to Europe and the USA are competitive. This combination offers good value.” Keith cites a 12-day Wonders of Europe coach tour, including airfare from Johannesburg to London,

May good thoughts fill your days during this season of love and hope. Whatever brings you joy, may it be yours during this magical season. Best Wishes for the Holidays and the coming New Year.

costing from R14 800 per person. A 15-day tour to Spain, Portugal and Morocco including flights via London will cost R15 200 per person, says Keith, while a 15-day West Coast USA tour including airfares via London into Los Angeles and out of San Francisco will cost from R17 500 per person excluding taxes. Cosmos, Globus and Avalon Waterways pay 12% agents’ commission on all coach tours. “Override commission will be paid for collective turnover achieved over R100 000. That’s about eight passengers,” concludes Keith. n

Email: ann@pcs-sa.co.za nono@pcs-sa.co.za karen@pcs-sa.co.za www.pcs-sa.co.za

From Professional Career Services TNW5076

Premier Hotels set to take off at OR Tambo Jeanette phillipS PREMIER Hotels has announced the opening of the Premier Hotel OR Tambo International in March. The hotel will be just 500m from the Gautrain Station and 1,2km from the airport terminals, reached by a free shuttle bus. The 280-room hotel will operate as a full-service fourstar-plus hotel offering free Wi-Fi in all rooms and public areas. It will have a spa,

swimming pool deck, gym, restaurant and two bars and 24-hour room service. The conference centre will have nine conference rooms and boardrooms with state-of-the-art facilities, accommodating up to 800 delegates cinemastyle. Windows have solarcontrolled glazing, reducing air-conditioning requirements, and energy-efficient VRV airconditioning systems have been incorporated into the public areas. An energy-

QUICK READ FOR bUSIESt pEOplE

efficient hot water generation plant produces hot water at approximately 25% of the cost of electrical water heating. “Far from being just a layover, the Premier Hotel OR Tambo will provide all the services and style necessary to make for a comfortable travel experience,” said Premier Hotel & Resorts md, Samuel Nassimov. The group now has hotels in Cape Town, Pretoria, Pinetown and the KZN South Coast and a five-star property in Knysna. n

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Libya

The forum at Leptis Magna has multiple renderings of Medusa, each by a different sculptor, each a little different

Kate Nathan recently took a trip to Libya as a guest of Afriqiyah. Read on to find out more…

Ancient Rome lives on in Libya

HE solitude and silence as you walk among the marble columns and sandstone blocks strewn among the grass are the most remarkable aspects of Leptis Magna. It makes you thankful for the political machinations that cut Libya off from the swelling tide of mainstream mass tourism during the past 20 years and saved it from being swamped with tour groups, like most other tourism sites of this importance, scale and antiquity. The two ruined cities of

Leptis Magna and Sabratha, both an easy drive from Tripoli, Libya’s capital, are well preserved and offer an utterly convincing and authentic experience. Three of Libya’s five World Heritage Sites attract ongoing archaeological attention – they are Cyrene (an ancient Greek city in the east of the country that features several times in Biblical history), Leptis Magna and Sabratha a pair of Phoenician/ Roman/Byzantine cities that, along

with Oeos (the ancient name for what is now Tripoli), formed the ‘Three Cities’(or Tripolis) of ancient times. The other two WH sites are Tadrart Acacus (prehistoric cave paintings) and the ancient and disintegrating clay city of Ghadames. How long these sites remain pristine and free from hundred-coach parking lots is anyone’s guess – if you have clients who love ancient history, antiquities and ruins, send them to Tripoli now!

Getting there

Book it!

With Afriqiyah, the Libyan airline now flying to Johannesburg twice a week (details on Travelinfo), South Africans can take advantage of rock-bottom special launch fares to several European cities via Tripoli. A great idea for agents is to build in a one- or two-night stopover (depending on the connection), and book a tour with a professional tour operator like Arkno Tours (Afriqiyah will help agents with tour arrangements).

Afriqiyah, the Libyan airline that currently flies to Johannesburg twice a week, has some launch economy-class specials valid until January 15, 2010. Düsseldorf from R2 827 Brussels R2 885 Amsterdam R2 934 Paris R3 086 London R3 374 Cairo R4 888 Rome R5 392 Dubai R5 415 Tripoli R5 590 Business class fares on all these routes all start under R20 000, valid until January 15 next year. Prices may vary with exchange rates.

Travellers’ tip Libya is a totally ‘dry’ country – no alcohol whatsoever is served anywhere and none may be brought into the country.

The public baths, Leptis Magna 8 n Wednesday December 16/23 2009

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Charmaine Thome and Michell Fourie, of Aviareps, which represents Afriqiyah in SA, took a breather in the lounge area of Zumit Hotel

The Romans perfected the art of mosaic – Jamahirriya Museum

Where to stay Tripoli has two five-star hotels – the 350-room Radisson Blu and the 298-room Corinthia Bab Africa. Our group stayed in the brand-new Radisson, and we were wowed by the fresh, lovely rooms, good service, charming staff and superb food at all meals. The Corinthia is ‘the’ hotel in Tripoli. Its plush public areas and rooms are much patronised by diplomats, businessmen, government delegations and statesmen.

It has a spa and an Executive Club. Both hotels have conference facilities accommodating up to 600 people. Of interest too, are a few heritage hotels. The Ancient Zumit Hotel and Restaurant Libya, is an old caravanserai located adjacent to the Arch of Marcus Aurelius. Its interiors and rooms have been modernised in authentic modern North African style. Visit www.zumithotel.com for more information.

The Arch of Septimius Severus at Leptis Magna

The old city is full of character

Economy class: JNB – Brussels ZAR2953 JNB – Dusseldorf ZAR2893

The Jamahirriya Museum, in an old Ottoman Fort near the port, shows off priceless Roman and Byzantine antiquities

Leptis Magna – as it was left by the earthquake that destroyed it in the 4th century

JNB – London ZAR3462 JNB – Cairo ZAR4952

Business class: JNB – Brussels ZAR17653 JNB – Dusseldorf ZAR17593

JNB – London ZAR18821 JNB – Cairo ZAR18592

For more specials on all routes and information, call Afriqiyah South Africa on (011) 722-0227 or email: Reservations8U.JNB@aviareps.com. *Conditions apply, rates are per person TAXES INCLUDED!

TNW3726SD

QUICK READ FOR bUSIESt pEOplE

Wednesday December 16/23 2009 n 9

NEWS New look for SA Express

SA Express ceo, Siza Mzimela, deputy minister of public enterprises, Enoch Godongwana and chairman of SA Express, Lilian Boyle, present the new-look SA Express aircraft An extensive menu of hot and cold gourmet dishes is available in the restaurant

Melody Brandon

Emirates launches exclusive lounge at OR Tambo

WITH a new look and a new slogan, ‘We fly for you’, SA Express is set to expand its footprint in Africa by building awareness of the airline as a premier African brand. Known previously as South African Express Airways, the new-look SA Express was unveiled in Johannesburg recently. New uniforms for staff, a new logo on the aircraft and a new-look in-flight magazine are all part of the rebranding. The logo will still feature the colours of the South African flag. Likening the 15-year-old airline’s makeover to a 15-year-old girl, chairman

Natasha Tippel

MIRATES recently celebrated the official opening of the airline’s first exclusive lounge in Africa at OR Tambo International Airport. It is one of five lounges to be launched this year and is open to Emirates’ first- and business-class passengers, as well as Gold Skywards members.

The new Johannesburg lounge features leather armchairs, flat-screen TVs, an extensive collection of international and local newspapers and magazines, shower facilities and a state-ofthe-art business centre. Also on offer is an extensive menu of complimentary hot and cold gourmet dishes and full bar service. “At Emirates we are constantly investing in the comfort of our passengers and

rewarding loyalty by providing high-quality service offerings. This lounge is another example of our dedication to offering the best to our customers,” said Emirates’ divisional senior vp, airport services, Mohammed Mattar. The facility has seating for 135 guests and is located on the Mezzanine level at OR Tambo’s Duty Free Mall, between boarding gates A4 and A7. ■

Lilian Boyle, described the airline as wanting to “look good”, adding that this would filter into the airline’s operations. Expanding the airline’s regional footprint was one of its most important objectives, said ceo, Siza Mzimela, adding that their passion for people put them ahead. “We do not have a first class or economy class, we have a personal class. Making the small things count and fulfilling customers’ needs is our main focus.” The changes are expected to be phased in over the next few months and are expected to be completed by April. ■

Seven Seas Voyager redefines luxury cruising Hilka Birns REGENT’s newly refurbished six-star Seven Seas Voyager docked in Cape Town’s V&A Basin recently, giving travel agents and clients a taste of ultra-luxury cruising. The 11-deck luxury liner was refurbished to the tune of R74m last year. It offers all-suite, all private balcony accommodation and one of

the highest space and crewto-guest ratios as 447 crew cater to the whims of 700 discerning guests on board. Suites feature separate sleeping and living areas, luxury linens, walk-in closets and spacious marbleappointed bathrooms with separate showers and baths. The Master Suite has two bedrooms, two and a half bathrooms with a freestanding

bath and shower, lounge, a dining area for six people, work station, bar and butler service. There are four restaurants, two of which have open seating. Reservations are required, preferably before departure, at two ‘haute cuisine’ restaurants: the new Prime 7 specialising in steaks and seafood; and the ‘Cordon Bleu’ Signatures. Other facilities include a

spa; gym; jogging track; golf net, nightclub; casino; card/ conference room; theatre; library; duty-free shops; and observation lounge. There is complimentary 24-hour room service; wireless access throughout the ship; a butler service in upper categories, in-suite bars and SoundDocks for iPods; interactive television; and complimentary movies on demand.

lee botti & associates Best wishes for a cheerful Festive Season. Thank you to our valued clients for your loyal support during this year . We look forward to an exciting 2010! Please note our offices will be closed from 15th December 2009 to 4th January 2010 Rivonia: (011) 803 6606

TNW4530

10 n Wednesday December 16/23 2009

Cape Town: (021) 418 1084

www.leebotti.co.za

Durban: (031) 201 8330

All-inclusive fares include unlimited shore excursions; beverages including wines and premium spirits; in-suite mini-bars replenished daily; gratuities; and all taxes. The ship returns to the Mother City on April 14/15 as part of a 119-night circumnavigation of the globe. It departs January 13 from San Diego, USA, ending at Fort Lauderdale on May 12. ■

to the point

☞

● SA citizens and nationals from 33 other countries can now receive tourist visas on arrival in Ethiopia at the regular charge. Travellers can visit one of Ethiopian Airlines’ offices to give their passport number, nationality (work or residence permit number if passenger is non-resident), name of hotel in Addis Ababa and travel date. Visas are processed within three working days and the status of the visa will be advised to the requesting Ethiopian Airlines office by e-mail. The visa will be ready at Addis Ababa Airport for US$20 at the immigration visa desk. QUICK READ FOR DECISION-MAKERS

jobS

CoMMUNITYNEWS

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.

Appointments

SpecialiZed Travel perSonnel our website is updated daily! visit www.specialized.co.za

Community news

What a year and the way forward ….. The year 2009 will be remembered as one of the most challenging years not only for the travel, tourism and hospitality industries in South Africa but for the global economy as a whole due to the unprecedented times that were experienced.

n The Taj Hotel in Cape Town has introduced its management team. From left: Theo Cromhout, sales and marketing director; Michael Pownall, gm; Willem du Toit, food and beverage director; and Justin Arenhold, deputy gm.

n The Three Cities Group has also appointed Lester Cary as newest member of the Johannesburg sales team. Lester has 15 years’ experience in corporate sales and qualified project management.

n Eirik Bergvoll has been appointed the new GM of the Radisson Blu Hotel in Sandton. Eirik’s international career spans over two decades and his initial association with the Rezidor Hotel Group, goes as far back as 1984. He has opened and managed five-star properties for world-class hotel chains in Europe.

Leading Travel Management Company requires contract staff: ● Senior Consultants with a minimum of 5yrs experience. Must have good knowledge in tour packages. ● Guest Relations / Receptionists with a minimum 2yrs experience in the hotel industry. Only candidates that meet the above criteria will be considered. E-mail CVs to Thembisile.dhladhla@renniestravel.com TNW5080

BOOKKEEPER ● Full function Bookkeeping up to Trial Balance ● PASTAL Proficiency required, QuickTrav experience an advantage ● Minimum 5 Years Experience Send C.V. to Angelene.smit@harveyworld.co.za Only Shortlisted applicants will be contacted. TNW5081

QUICK READ FOR bUSIESt pEOplE

To advertise on this page contact Natalie on 011 214 7330 or email nataliew@nowmedia.co.za

Incoming Operator ● Needs active person fluent in English, French & Spanish with B.Cmm. degree and at least 3 years inbound experience. ● Must be computer literate.

Competitive Offer. Post CV to Advertiser, P.O. Box 4844, Dainfern Valley 2055.

The challenge is on Izelle Behr (marketing manager) and Lerato Maditse (sales executive) for Court Classique Suite Hotel, Sentinel Executive Apartment Hotel & Orange Restaurant show their support for the National Football Fridays initiative. They are challenging all Pretoriabased hotels and guest houses to join them n Charmaine takes gold again Travel Counsellor, Charmaine Higgins, was once again awarded Gold status by the company in honour of her commitment to offer customers the best travel advice. Charmaine is one of a select few to have retained their Gold status, which means she is one of the award-winning agency’s top performers. n Qatar lends a helping hand Qatar Airways recently visited Nazareth House, a children’s home in Yeoville, where they picked up the children and staff and headed for Fourways Mall. The children were each tasked with choosing an outfit and were then taken to Montecasino Bird Gardens where they were treated to lunch and face painting. The children were also educated about conservation during an exotic bird show. The home receives children from the national and provincial Social Welfare departments, the Children’s Court and the South African Police Service. Staff and volunteers are tasked with the care of the children’s physical, emotional and spiritual needs.

EQUITY CONNECTIONS cc In good times and bad times......... Thanks for the ongoing support and friendship throughout this difficult year! Wishing you all a Happy and Peaceful Festive Season! Here’s to a great turnaround and prosperous 2010!! With very best wishes NADINE DRAKE NADINE 011 803 0056 equitycon@mweb.co.zaa equitycon@mweb.co.z

TNW1997xmas

Personnel with the personal touch

Our hearts have gone out to those who found themselves retrenched or without employment. Suddenly, exceptionally good candidates found themselves having to face unemployment, an aspect which they never thought possible. We provided ongoing support, advice and assistance and have some happy-ending placements however there were also those applicants that we were not able to assist in these economic circumstances due to the shortage of job opportunities. Moving forward, due to some encouraging signs we are approaching 2010 with more optimism however also with a big dollop of realism in terms of staff recruitment. The 2010 World Cup will certainly have a positive impact, not only on the mood of the country but also in the creation of new opportunities and temporary jobs which is great news. As a company, we have some very exciting strategies happening around this event and also believe that as South Africans we should all want to contribute positively to make this a remarkable occasion which we can all be so proud of. As challenging as the year 2009 has been, Specialized continues to seek growth opportunities and remain upbeat. We have a very exciting new development launching and a press release will occur in January, so watch this space! Our office will be closing on 14 December and will reopen on Monday 04 January 2010. Our job opportunities will continue to be listed on our website www.specialized.co.za.

FINANCIAL MANAGER/ISANDO

Wishing all our valued Clients and Candidates a NATIONAL Very Happy Festive SALES MANAGER/ NORTHERN SUBURBS Season Hands on position with totaland responsibility for Key Account Managers and Business “Bring on a Very Development Managers! Prosperous 2010 for the BRAND MANAGER/ Travel Industry!!!” NORTHERN SUBURBS

Highly negotiable pacakage offered by Market Leader for your B.Comm/equivalent and ability to lead department of 45 people!

On behalf of the Specialized Team, we would like to wish you all Happy Holidays and may the future be prosperous and positive for us all.

Person strong in Marketing invited to join leading Wholesaler!

Please note that we are SENIOR CONSULTANT/BOKSBURG open overfriendly thecompany Festive Join well established, and work home! Seasoncloser to toassist you. Please Take Note of Our New Telephone Wendy &4909 Kim No.: 011 704

Best wishes for 2010! Pam Pokroy & Kati Eksteen

Contact Wendy/KimCONTACT WENDY/KIM TEl: 704 4909 FAx: 086 538 5889 E-MAIl: wtp@icon.co.za (011) 704 4909011 or e-mail: wtp@icon.co.za TNW2048xmas

Office Hrs (011) 884-9113 Website: www.specialized.co.za e-mail: kati@sgroup.co.za

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n The Three Cities Group and the Royal Palm Hotel have announced the promotion of Rheka Sohun from rooms division manager to deputy gm of the Royal Palm Hotel. Rheka is working towards completing her B-Tech in Hospitality Management.

n Gary Koetser, long-standing member of the Protea Hotels team, has been appointed gm of the Crystal Towers Hotel and Spa, opening at Century City this month. Gary was previously gm of three Protea Hotel properties – Protea Hotel Seapoint, Protea Hotel Saldanha Bay and Protea Hotel Tygervalley.

TNW2048

n Thabisile Edith Macoba has been appointed financial director at Tempest Car Hire.

At Specialized Personnel we certainly had to adapt to a completely different recruitment market. Gone were the days of an abundance of jobs and a shortage of candidates and instead we found ourselves being flooded with people looking for job opportunities that were not plentiful. However, we adapted and find ourselves looking back on the year as a tremendous learning curve. We adjusted to conducting our business in a very different environment and we leant ‘How to Dance in the Rain”. Our policy of never becoming complacent, even after 28 years in business paid off, and we became a more resourceful and highly focused team. Through our determination, dedication and focus, we were able to achieve our objective and successfully place a high percentage of the job vacancies that came our way.

Wednesday December 16/23 2009 n 11

TNW NEWS �� What a year it’s been! �� Economic downturn, falling BSP figures, visa dramas – 2009 had it all. Melody Brandon looks at the past year… January: �� May: �� Top Holidays applied for voluntary liquidation on December 19, 2008, and closed its doors in January. The supplier’s demise led to the call for an industry-wide bonding scheme to protect travel agents and consumers. The Consumer Protection Bill was passed by parliament. The Act is expected to be implemented in 2010 and will see retailers having to ensure they are compliant. 1time Holidays, the LCC’s domestic and regional tour operator, was launched and Virgin Nigeria suspended its flights between Lagos and Johannesburg.

��

February:

The embattled Tourism, Hospitality and Sport Education & Training Authority (Theta) had to suspend its learnerships because it had “unknowingly” exceeded its budget by R57m. Later in the year industry stakeholders accused the board of incompetence. The announcement that all South Africans travelling to the UK would need a visa from March caused a stir in the industry. Transit visas caused much confusion and many travellers opted to use other hubs.

March:

South African travel agents were labelled the worst offenders when it came to GDS wastage. Chris Smyth was appointed acting ceo of SAA after embattled ceo, Khaya Ngqula, stepped down. In a bid to keep their heads above water, airlines dropped their fares to the lowest ever seen to stimulate travel.

April:

��

Asata cracked down on fraudsters with the launch of eWatch, where employers can ask employees to sign a consent form

brought to you by eTNW and TRAVELINFO

allowing them to be named and shamed should they be found guilty of fraud at the company. The swine flu outbreak did not affect the industry as much as anticipated. Piracy became an issue for clients but specialists said there was nothing to fear as cruise liners would avoid ‘threat’ areas. The new departure terminal at OR Tambo was unveiled on April 1. Travel consortiums reported a drastic year-on-year loss in sales, resulting in a number of retrenchments. It was determined that agents would not be held liable if a supplier defaulted under the terms of the Consumer Protection Act. Imperial Car Hire changed its name to Europcar at the end of May, turning the 30-year-old local brand into a global player.

June:

The effect of the global recession began to impact on airlines as the year’s first-quarter BSP figures dropped by 26% and Iata predicted a global loss of US$9bn (R72bn). Kulula.com and Flight Centre, ended their relationship and Zambezi Airlines launched flights to Johannesburg from Lusaka.

July: The new UK visa regime came into effect. Agents, whose clients did not want to pay the exorbitant fees or have the hassle of obtaining a UK visa, booked their clients through other hubs. Travel prices further plummeted as suppliers tried desperately to stimulate demand. Fraud was once again a hot topic as TNW warned agents about a group of scam artists in Pretoria. Agents were warned to follow the BSP rules closely to avoid being held liable. Etihad Airways announced its new service from Abu Dhabi to Cape Town.

August:

In an effort to soften the blow of the UK visa regime, Sir Richard Branson, chairman of Virgin Atlantic, announced that the airline would refund the price of a UK visa on passengers’ second flight booked to the UK between October 1, 2009 and November 30, 2010. Airlink began operating from Nelspruit Kruger to Livingstone. Asata’s initiative ‘project X’ was in its final stages of completion. The project is hoped to provide accurate statistics for the outbound sector.

September:

Ho, ho, ho! All I want for Christmas is... n A bagful of money 23% n World peace 6% n A fully paid for luxury holiday 20% n To lose 10kg 11% n No more debt 32% n A better looking partner 1% n To be a rock star 2% n A year’s supply of booze 2% n Other (please comment) 3% “I really do want world peace – who doesn’t? But we are all too greedy to allow that to happen, so it may as well be a bagful of money! That way I will be able to give my family a beautiful Christmas.” Rachael Penaluna, Sure Bleeker Travel “To lose 30kg but without dieting or suffering in the gym.” Debbie Joubert, Sure Travel 24-7 “For all people in the world to be more respectful of their fellow human beings and of the very fragile world and environment we live in.” Michelle Minnaar, Harvey World Travel Plettenberg Bay

To sponsor this poll contact Kate on 011 214 7334 �� TNW3744SD

12 n Wednesday December 16/23 2009

or e-mail katen@nowmedia.co.za

Smaller retail agencies expressed dismay when Iata proposed a R250 000 guarantee for agents in South Africa. Many agents felt they had been penalised because of agencies that had defaulted in the past. Olympic Airlines stopped flying to South Africa. The airline was sold to Marfin Investment Group in March.

October:

Allegations of 2010 price gouging were rife as ambitious hoteliers upped their prices to exorbitant rates, all in the name of supply and demand. Asata warned industry stakeholders that overinflated prices would damage tourism to South Africa in the future. The Angolan and Nigerian embassies came under fire for delaying visas.

November:

Increased UK Air Passenger Duty hit travellers from November 1. Economy-class passengers from London to South Africa are now taxed £50 (R613), up from the previous £40 (R490). A TNW investigation revealed that agents were defaming certain non-preferred suppliers to offsell them. Holiday Tours, one of the suppliers targeted, hit back by launching a R10m bank guarantee to protect agents against default.

December:

The teams playing in the 2010 Fifa World Cup were announced, giving agents the hope that airline capacity would be released for June next year. Visas again took the spotlight as Schengen countries tightened up their regulations for families travelling to Europe. The Nigerian embassy came under fire once again for closing without giving agents warning. ● What issues should we be looking at in the new year? Email melodyb@nowmedia.co.za QUICK READ FOR DECISION-MAKERS