Travel News Weekly - 18 November 09

November 18 2009

AFRICA’S TRAVEL NEWS WEEKLY Advertisement ADvErt SOUTHERN

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Adventure, fun and friends – Only With Contiki G

ot your sights set on Europe in 2010?

Contiki’s brand spanking new Europe 2010-11 Europe brochure is fresh off the press and packed to the rafters with a comprehensive range of holiday options for young travellers.

Whether you’re looking to trot the hot spots, or veer off on the path less ventured, with Contiki you can snip, sew and tailor-make your holiday to suit with a range of choices, from travelling style, length, pace, method of transport, optionals and much more.

Whatever your agenda, Contiki has something to suit you in 2010-11, and you don’t even have to bust your budget. Each itinerary

is offered at exceptional value for money with accommodation, transport, many meals and the services of the awesome crew included in the price.

Plus, in this year’s brochure, you’ll also find a range of special Only with Contiki inclusions, highlighted on each tour page. These exclusive experiences, ranging from a Paris illuminations night tour with cheese and wine at a local café and a Tuscan wine tasting experience with antipasti are specially designed to take you beyond the big sights and to the heart of each destination.

New is the word this year, with Contiki introducing two New Years Eve packages

that will see you see off the new year with a bang in Amsterdam or Paris. The four-day Amsterdam New Year and four-day Paris New Year join Contiki’s existing stable of fun festival tours and special interest departures scheduled throughout 2010 for those who want to party at Oktoberfest, dance among the tulips in Amsterdam or laugh out loud at the Edinburgh Festival.

Other hot new additions to the 2010-11 programme is the four-day Corfu Explorer, the perfect pre- or posttour beach break, and the 13-day Scotland & Ireland, combining a fantastic Highlands fling with the ultimate Emerald Isle experience.

Of course all the old favourites are still part of the programme; whether you want to travel on one of Contiki’s go everywhere, see everything multi-country tours, or you are fascinated by a particular city or country and choose an indepth regional tour, they’re all still there.

Contiki’s 2010-11 programme also features Explore More offering you a number of optional activities to help you create your own adventure. You may want to get out your guidebook and see where the backstreets take you or perhaps just chill; or maybe you’ll use the time to do one of Contiki’s Optional Activities offered on each itinerary, which can turn a great trip into an

unforgettable one.

Contiki has been taking 18 to 35s around the globe to experience far off places and exotic cultures for over 45 years, so they know what young people want. Contiki has planned all its trips to include a perfect balance of sightseeing and adventure with loads of free time to do whatever you want. They also make sure the trips are great value, making travel loads cheaper than doing it by yourself which means more travel dollars for life’s little luxuries like shopping, sightseeing and going out.

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OU R NEW TOURS Check out some of the awesome new holiday options: Four-day Time Out, Corfu Explorer priced from R1190 per person, land only, twin share or R895 per person quad share Highlights of this trip include accommodation at Contiki’s exclusive Corfu Village Hotel, stunning beaches, secluded coves and lush lagoons as well as the option to enjoy a poolside toga party with new friends, explore ancient Greek ruins and the historic old town. Join an island-explorer boat cruise and dine at a traditional Greek taverna.

Four-day Paris New Year priced from R3915 per person, twin share, land only Highlights of this trip include an evening “City of Lights” tour including the Eiffel Tower, Champs Elysée and Arc de Triomphe; a day of free time to take in some shopping, cafes and galleries; a cruise along the River Seine and the option of seeing a famous Parisian cabaret.

13-day Time Out Tour, Scotland and Ireland from R13975 per person, twin share, land only Highlights include: Edinburgh exploration, including the castle; stop at St Andrews, the home of golf; the moors, mountains, lochs and sea cliffs of the Isle of Skye; Stirling Castle and William Wallace Monument in Glasgow; the natural rock formations of the Giant’s Causeway; the 17th century city walls of Londonderry; kiss the famous Blarney Stone and visit cosmopolitan Dublin.

Contiki’s 2010-11 Europe brochures are out now! For more information or to make a booking contact:

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November 18 2009 I No. 2084

Southern Africa’s Travel News Weekly

Recommended by business executives and teenage backpackers.

It’s just like being at home, except someone else makes the bed in the morning.

TRAVEL NEWS WEEKLY

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Reservations: 0800 113 790 or www.citylodge.co.za.

Galileo Access: CG, Amadeus Access: TA.

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INSIDE

807047 CL just like.indd 1

News

Regional holidays are a winner!

Mauritius is a top seller

7/7/08 11:06:58 AM

News

feature

Avoid codeshare pitfalls

Victoria falls

Codeshare flights can cause headaches

It’s a hotspot for South Africans

Page 8

Page 15

Page 2

Supplier battles offsell smear campaign

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HILE the ugly practice of defaming suppliers to offsell them has been denied by retail groups, one operator has come out saying it is prepared to take legal action against those found slandering it among consumers.

In several Naked Agent exercises, TNW conducted an investigation into the methods agents used to offsell nonpreferred suppliers. While in many cases the agents were able to offsell the nonpreferred in a subtle way, in other cases they resorted to defaming the supplier in an attempt to dissuade the Naked Agent from opting for the non-preferred.

TNW was told by various agents representing different retail groups that requested suppliers (non-preferreds) were “dodgy” or “in financial difficulty” (see TNW November 11). Several of the agents to whom TNW spoke now deny ever having used defamation as a tactic.

The management of one of the retail groups in question alleges that due to the liquidation of some suppliers this year, they “had to be careful about who they sold”.

Johannesburg-based tour operator Holiday Tours has now responded to the reports saying it is aware of agents using defamation to offsell suppliers.

In a letter to TNW (see page 20) Holiday Holdings md, Gavin Simpson, responds to this practice which he terms a “malicious tactic that is obviously intended to deceitfully divert business away from independent wholesalers to their own company or alternatively to other preferred partner wholesalers who are willing to ‘buy’ business by paying excessive front and back end override incentives”.

At Holiday Tours’ invitation, TNW sent an

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auditor to look at the company’s financials to quell rumours it was on the verge of collapse. TNW also spoke to the company’s own auditors.

According to Greig Compton, director of Van Wyk Compton Incorporated, Holiday Tours is financially sound.

“Holiday Holdings, under which Holiday Tours is a division, is financially sound and is a solid business. There have been no problems with turnover or cashflow and their financials are fine. They will receive an unqualified audit this year,” said Greig.

Advocate Louis Nel said while suppliers would be well within its rights to explore legal avenues, including a criminal and civil case, the upcoming Consumer Protection Act (CPA) would also have implications for aggressive offselling.

“This type of offselling shows the value system of the sales people we have working in the travel industry. The reality is, if you are getting any kind of kickback, benefits, overrides or a free holiday, you are going to punt the preferreds.”

The provisions of the Act, which still need to be finalised, could see retailers fined up to 10% of their annual profit and/or a prison sentence, should it be found they did not act in the consumer’s best interests.

“Agencies need to familiarise themselves, train their staff and make sure their business systems are aligned.

“The way in which agents interact on the phone, email their clients and print their ads – these processes all need to be aligned with the Act. “The industry effectively has six months to familiarise itself with this legislation.

“If they do not, they will be in big trouble,” says Louis.

To page 20

Incredible India with Freeway Giving you incredible India accommodation specials, and all at the click of a mouse, is Freeway Travel, with the five-star The Lalit in Delhi on offer from R2 320pppn until December 31. For more amazing India offers, visit Freeway Holidays’ website with its online reservation tool which allows for customised service. Travel agencies receive discounted rates with the ability to select marked-up rates at their discretion. Pictured here offering you the best of India are (from left) consultant, Shaakira Salajee; Yasmeen Motala, operations manager; Ghalid Hendricks, group operations manager and Feroza Moosa, key account manager Photo: Tijana Huysamen

TAM direct to SA’s cities in 2010 Natalia Thomson BRAZIL’S TAM Linhas Aéreas will be launching direct flights to three centres in South Africa during the 2010 World Cup. In conjunction with tour operators, Agaxtur, Top Service, Ambiental, Stella Barros and Marsans, as well as its own tour operator TAM Viagens, the airline will be offering flights to

Johannesburg, Cape Town and Durban from June 7 to July 14.

Said Paulo Castello Branco, TAM vp commercial and planning: “The partnership with these tour operators ensures that not only do we offer direct flights to South Africa for Brazilian fans, but also very attractive prices. We believe we will fill our aircraft during this service.” ■

NEWS

Regional holidays are a winner!

Melody Brandon

Cape or Natal you can go to Mauritius!”

A comparison between Mauritius specials last year and this year, shows that prices are on a par with, and in some instances cheaper than, last year.

Last year, six nights at Beachcomber’s Le Mauricia plus taxes would have cost your clients R12 862. This year they can expect to pay R11 812 plus taxes for seven nights, a saving of 8% (R1 050), and the operator has thrown in an extra night free.

Naïade Holidays is offering a 35% discount on a host of its properties (TNW November 4) including the five-star de-luxe Beau Rivage and the fourstar all-inclusive Tamassa in Mauritius.

The operator recently added the five-star Les Pavillons, and the five-star Legends to the list of Mauritian Hotels at which customers can receive a 35% discount.

“Mauritius remains a popular destination for South Africans because it is a safe relaxing destination. It is close and offers some of the most beautiful settings in the world. There is nothing like watching the sun set over the

F

ULLY inclusive packages, value for money and the right price seems to be the winning combination for South Africans wanting to go away for the December holidays and Mauritius has come out as one of the most popular destinations in the region.

According to responses in the 2009 State of SA Travel Sector Survey, Mauritius is the most popular destination, followed by the Far East, Europe and Australia.

“Mauritius is definitely a top seller, there are no visas required and the packages are either fully inclusive, or pretty much include everything, so there are very few extra costs for the client. This means they can budget in advance.

Availability over the Christmas season has also been great,” says Karen Swaby from Pentravel, Kloof.

Travel Counsellor, Lana Sykes agrees: “Mauritius is a top seller and there are incredible rates offered, this makes it far more affordable for South Africans wanting to travel over the festive season.

We have seen that for almost the same price as going to the

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west coast of Mauritius while drinking cocktails,” says World Leisure Holidays md, Johann Strydom.

Regional specials

As well as Mauritius, numerous other destinations are offering competitive rates.

Last year an African Encounters seven-night package to the Leopard Beach Resort in Mombasa, Kenya, was priced from R9 420, including return flights, transfers, accommodation and free travel bag. This year it costs R9 059, a saving of R361.

A trip to Egypt with African encounters for seven nights to Tut Ankh Amon including two nights in Cairo, two nights on a train and three nights on a Nile cruise would have set your client back R11 125.This year they can budget on R9 990 for the same package, a saving of R1 135.

African Encounters md, Rodger Williams, says booking trends indicate South Africans are chasing price rather than value-adds at the moment.

“We try and negotiate rates as low as possible as we realise customers are exceptionally price sensitive at the moment,” he said.

Selling points for regional holidays: “So... They tell me you’re pretty handy with a gun.”

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.

EDITORAL 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: Lana Sachs PRODUCTION Design Head: Brendon Bester

Mauritius: ● Frequent air connections and the flight is relatively short ● Packages are flexible and often fully inclusive ● Lower prices means the

whole family can enjoy a holiday Zanzibar: ● Is not as commercial as other island destinations ● It offers an extraordinary

cultural experience ● The island has magnificent beaches ● The destination is very close, so is more convenient and offers great short breaks ■

katen@nowmedia.co.za lanas@nowmedia.co.za

brendonb@nowmedia.co.za

Subscriptions: Subs tvlsubs@nowmedia.co.za Annual Subscription: RSA R460,00 Foreign R700,00 SADC R525,00 (Subscription to 10 copies 21705 30mm x 206mm 10/31/08 12:15includes PM upPage 1 for your staff at the delivery point) TNW3630SD

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NEWS

Suggest a cheaper option for families visiting Europe Jeanette Phillips

S

Choice of chalet types

The Fiji and Bali both offer main bedrooms with double beds and a bedroom with three single beds, and a pull-out bed for two in the living room. These chalets are ideal for four adults and two children. The chalets have fully equipped kitchens, bathrooms with showers and toilets.

The Tahiti has two bedrooms and bathrooms and covered porch. The Waikiki offers three bedrooms.

All chalets offer ample closet space and come equipped with garden furniture.

All the resorts are staffed with trained, Englishspeaking students and feature swimming pools, game rooms, tennis courts, bars, restaurants, washing machines, Wi-Fi, health centres with Jacuzzis, mini golf, and TV rooms.

According to Chris Grobbelaar, co-founder and director of Indonga, this form of travel is suited to young and old, families, individuals and couples travelling together. It also offers an affordable alternative to explore Europe.

Indonga is currently running an agents’ special, offering agents a 50% discount on available options. It is further offering agents 10% commission on any bookings made through Indonga.

Tailor-made itineraries are available.

See advertisement on page 10. ■

SAA’s ‘Real Australia’ South African Airways and Tourism Western Australia recently hosted workshops in Cape Town, Durban and Johannesburg educating agents on the latest offerings from SAA and the many reasons that their clients should visit Western Australia – the ‘Real Australia!’. SAA now offers daily flights to Perth from Johannesburg.

From November 1, SAA is operating a codeshare agreement with Air New Zealand for SAA passengers travelling to Wellington or Christchurch via Perth.

Pictured here, from left, are regional director of South Africa for Tourism Western Australia, John Bowen, SAA’s head of Africa – Middle East and market RSA, Ilse Kaya, and SAA sales manager for Western Australia, Greg McKeone

01AV/TNW/NOV09

OMERSET Westbased tour operator, Indonga, has recently introduced its new alternative accommodation options in Europe.

They include semipermanent chalets and luxury tents in holiday resorts across France, Spain, Italy, Slovenia, Croatia, Switzerland, Austria, Hungary, the Czech Republic, Germany, Belgium, The Netherlands and Denmark.

Tents, which are erected in March and taken down in October each year, consist of a large lounge area and fully equipped kitchen and separate sleeping area. The sleeping area has a double bed and a second area can be divided into two with four single beds. All tents are equipped with 220V electricity as well as garden

furniture. Ablution facilities are ample and maintained according to European standards.

The chalet option includes four different types – the Fiji, Bali, Tahiti and Waikiki.

We are proud to take the first step.

At Avis we’ve achieved a lot of “rsts”. We were the rst to t radial ply tyres to our eet for safer driving. First to rent automatic and air-conditioned cars. We were the rst car rental company at airports and to run hybrid vehicles in our eet. Now, in our ongoing commitment to ensure the protection of the environment, Avis has become the rst car rental company in South Africa to attain CarbonNeutral® accreditation*. Visit www.avis.co.za to book a car or learn more about our CarbonNeutral® journey.

www.avis.co.za or call 0861 021 111 Avis rents VW and other fine cars

*In accordance with international protocol

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4 n Wednesday November 18 2009

QUICK READ FOR DECISION-MAKERS

NEWS

Baggage theft – airlines must also come clean Melody Brandon

A

CSA plans to reduce the number of bags being tampered with or stolen at OR Tambo International to eight a day by next year, down from the recent 30 a day.

Speaking to parliament’s public enterprises portfolio committee, Acsa operations manager Bongani Maseko said after Acsa had employed new baggage handlers, the number of pilfered bags had dropped to 18 out of between 20 000 and 25 000 bags handled daily. Currently 12 bags are pilfered daily.

Measures to reach the 2010 target include criminal checks for baggage handlers before they are employed, “periodic integrity testing” and a dedicated unit to combat baggage pilferage.

Acsa says SA’s statistics on pilferage are similar to those internationally.

Bongani says he hopes the DoT will draft legislation that requires airlines to declare the number of bags lost or tampered with. “With some airlines the level of pilferage is nil. With other airlines there is opportunity for improvement.”

He said Acsa relied on the goodwill of airlines to help combat the problem.

“Regrettably SA does not have the same law as the EU, which forces carriers to disclose theft levels. We have wanted to name and shame but we fear that, since nothing says we must do so, people will clam up.”

“Airlines should certainly report the numbers. Let us see some of this muchvaunted ‘transparency’ here. Denying it will not help anyone,” says Jan Levitan, Rand M Global Travel in Johannesburg.

Barsa ceo, Allan Moore, says while the organisation agrees

in principle to the reporting of pilferage numbers, it should not be used by airlines as a sales tool. “Pilfering certainly has been a big problem in the past, but I do believe South Africa fares well compared to other countries.”

“Pilferage obviously has a big effect on airlines. Apart from the financial implications of compensating for loss, the airline’s reputation (is also affected). It is particularly frustrating as airlines have very little control of the baggage once it has been checked in,” said Graham Paterson, 1time’s director of airports.

BA spokesman Stephen Forbes is confident Acsa will be able to get pilfering under control by 2010. “The airport authorities have put personnel and systems in place and are working hard to address the problem. We have certainly seen results.” ■

Robyn’s a Singapore ‘Warrior’ Robyn Christenson (second from right) of Gateway Travel, Canal Walk has won two tickets to Singapore on Singapore Airlines for selling the most Fabulous Singapore Stopover packages during the Singapore Warrior competition. On hand to present the prize are (from left) Marina Shaw, Singapore Airlines sales executive; Susan Pryor, Singapore Airlines district sales manager; and James Lim, Singapore Airlines manager Cape Province

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QUICK READ FOR busiest people

Wednesday November 18 2009 n 5

NEWS

North Africa hub beckons South Africans Kate Nathan

A

FRIQIYAH has launched its new SA route with some blockbuster fares from Johannesburg to Amsterdam, Brussels, Rome, Düsseldorf, Cairo, Dubai and Tripoli starting from under R3 000, including all taxes.

Paris and London are both under R3 500, including taxes.

The airline now flies a new A330-200 from its all-Airbus fleet on the Johannesburg route and is a full member of Iata (so is subject to regular Iosa safety audits).

And it allows businessclass passengers 72kg of checked-in and 20kg of carry-on baggage, while economy-class passengers get 48kg checked-in and 10kg carry-on baggage.

Afriqiyah (8U) has some

unusual routes and its connections at its Tripoli hub will definitely be interesting to corporate clients, because business travellers who may only fly to African destinations on Iata-registered airlines will no longer have to go via Europe.

The 30 business-class seats are completely and comfortably lie-flat and the service and food upfront are of a good standard.

Economy class (200 seats) is much what you would experience on any European carrier.

No visas are needed for transit passengers, but South Africans need visas for stays (the Libyan Embassy’s details are on Travelinfo). A 72-hour visa is available for a short stopover. Local ground

operators such as Arkno Tours (www.arkno.com) will organise visas for leisure travel. They can also plan an itinerary for a short stopover that will allow your clients to see at least two of Libya’s five famous World Heritage Sites – the ruined Roman cities of Leptis Magna and Sabratha, both of them suitable for a half-day tour along with a trip to the Jamahiriyya Museum with its magnificent marbles and mosaics.

The airline serves 26 destinations but, according to Michell Fourie, sales and marketing manager for Aviareps, which represents Afriqiyah in SA, the best connections for the JNB flight are to London Gatwick, Paris CDG, Brussels, Düsseldorf, Cairo, Dubai, Rome and Amsterdam. ■

Anton van den Heever of AVH Destination Management with Michell Fourie of Aviareps, the gsa for Afriqiyah in SA. Anton was amazed by the friendliness and approachability of the Libyan people. He sees Tripoli as a great option for a short stopover en route to any destination and says travellers should not miss the Roman city of Leptis Magna, where this picture was taken

Zanzibar operators battle 1time Holidays Natalia Thomson

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SA-BASED tour operators are finding it increasingly tough to compete with 1time’s new holiday division as it consistently offers lower prices for price-sensitive package destinations like Zanzibar.

A comparison of package prices on 1time Holidays’ website and tour operators such as African Encounters and World Leisure Holidays revealed that in most cases, 1time Holidays’ price was marginally lower than that of the operators.

A seven-day package to Zanzibar’s Mapenzi Beach Club including return flights from Johannesburg, return transfers and airport taxes is priced at R8 411 by African Encounters and R8 773 by World Leisure

Holidays, while 1time is offering the same package online from R7 986.

This, says the airline, is because it does not automatically include agent’s commission of 10% to 15%.

“1time Holidays has IT rates in line with all the main tour operators and as a standalone division of the airline must be profitable on its own.”

African Encounters md Rodger Williams says when 1time began its holidays division it expressly stated that it did not want to go into competition. “1time Holidays gets the same rates as us but they are retailing the product where we are wholesaling it, competing head-on which has angered many operators.”

Rodger says it is not 1time’s fault, but that Planhotel

group in Zanzibar has not differentiated between wholesalers and retailers.

“1time Holidays is only selling Planhotel properties at present and if the group does not provide us with wholesale rates it will be impossible to be competitive on those products.”

This, he says, will result in African Encounters phasing out Planhotel properties, which is not the only group of hotels on the island. “You will probably see many operators beginning to market their own ‘exclusive’ product. This is probably the only way that we could remain competitive.”

Rodger says: “There are many smaller places available to sell and alternative hotels that may not conclude deals with 1time Holidays.” ■

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6 n Wednesday November 18 2009

QUICK READ FOR DECISION-MAKERS

I’ve been bookmarked at newsagentlive.co.za.

Ernst du Plesiss

Recycled aircraft cabin air will make you sick

NET#WORK NALEDI BBDO 8007700/02-AIR HOSTESS

MYTHBUSTER

Sue Lewitton

risk on aircraft is probably lower on account of highly efficient HEPA-type EARS over the spread of cabin air filtration systems. HEPA contagious diseases, such as or high-efficiency particulate air-type the H1N1 virus, have opened filters, are effective at capturing debate on the quality of aircraft more than 99% of the airborne cabin air. Is it possible that travellers microbes in the air. are inhaling harmful bacteria, or even Other concerns have arisen toxic air, that has not been treated over rumours from recent reports properly? that ‘toxic air’ is cooled and then According to Linden Birns, pumped unfiltered directly into some spokesperson for Airbus in SA, aircraft cabins. passengers’ fears are unfounded.

Craig Thomas, SA manager He says: “Modern jetliners are of Etihad Airways and Board of designed and equipped with special Airlines Representatives of South air filters similar to Africa chairman, says and in most cases although it is true “Modern jetliners are even better than that engine air is those found in most equipped with air filters used in cabins, it is hospital operating similar to those found first cooled and then theatres. These have processed through in hospital operating a filtration system in to be cleaned and theatres.” maintained according most modern aircraft. to prescribed health “Certainly all long-haul and safety regulations.” aircraft,” he adds.

In response to public concern Air quality on the ground is also about the safety of cabin air, taken into account, says Linden. the International Air Transport “Airbus’s unique Volatile Organic Association (Iata) released a Compounds (VOC) converter keeps statement on the risk of contagious cabin air free of kerosene odours diseases in aircraft. It states that from other aircraft.” On an A380, the overall risk of contracting a the cabin air is refreshed every disease from an ill person on board three minutes and, combined with an aircraft is similar to that in other high-efficiency filters, which remove confined areas with high occupant 99,9% of unwanted substances, density. delivers the highest air quality However, it goes on to say that the passengers expect. ■

F

to the point ● Effective immediately, all electronic devices may be checked on arrival in Saudi Arabia. These include mobile phones with cameras and memory card, flash disks, external hard drives, laptops/notebooks/ PC, iPods, iTouches and MP3 players with memory cards.

A special USB device will be inserted QUICK READ FOR busiest people

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Bookmark our brand new trade website for Economy, Premium Economy, Upper Class and the chance to win 2 economy return tickets to London & 3 nights accommodation, if you register before end December. Check out newsagentlive.co.za for news, product information, downloadable documents and images, plus essential ticketing and transfer details for your customers. Enjoy your flight.

into passengers’ electronic devices to scan all contents. The device can find hidden data, and any devices on which pirated software or offensive pictures are discovered will be confiscated immediately.

Fines will not be imposed, but owners can be sent to jail or face deportation.

Source: Rachael Penaluna, Sure Bleekers Travel

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NEWS

Avoid codeshare pitfalls and bugbears Max Marx

C

ODESHARE flights are generally easy to book but there are times when they can cause headaches for agents as technical issues like pre-seating and loyalty programmes get in the way of a straightforward transaction.

Laurie Wilkinson, owner of Sure Travel Studio in Pretoria, says an old bugbear is customer seating. “Much of the time when we book customers on codeshare flights, the facility to pre-book seating on the codeshare partner is not available or the interface doesn’t work efficiently.”

Pre-seating can be a problem, admits Janet Aldworth, md of Sure Voyager Travel. “One passenger may need to go on SAA so you put him on SAA inventory. He’s travelling with another passenger whom you book on Qantas because the fare

David Pegg says codeshares can be anti-competitive in markets where there isn’t much competition is lower. But then trying to seat them together becomes very problematic as SAA has its seat allocation in the front of the plane, and Qantas further back.”

Kim-Lee Adams, manager of Pentravel Kloof, adds that agents can often not pre-seat if, for example, the

flight is being operated by SAA but the passenger has a Qantas ticket.

Special service requests are not always easy on codeshare flights and sometimes don’t get through to the operating carrier, says David Pegg, md of Sure Viva Travels.

David believes while codeshares are positive in that they open up more destinations to travellers, they can also be anticompetitive in markets where there isn’t much competition. “While airlines maintain they don’t manipulate their airfares, there is no way they’re not talking to one another about their fares. One airline can’t afford to sell seats that are far more expensive than those of their codeshare partner.”

Laurie adds that airlines sometimes don’t allow corporate fares to be used on codeshare flights because it’s a discount fare and airlines don’t want to

share the revenue. “But agents sometimes still manage to get a quote out of the system that it’s all right to use that fare, when it’s in fact not.”

Fare structures, he says, also create hassles for travel agents. “For example, if you’re booking a oneworld Round The World ticket, and book a Qantas/SAA codeshare flight to Perth, the rule does not allow you to book a codeshare flight because SAA is not a oneworld member, but the system allows you to quote it. This can be a costly mistake for agents.”

A straight codeshare, says Maria Hanton, branch manager of XL Astra Travel Bloemfontein, does not generate issues usually.

However, some problems arise with issuing tickets or sourcing fares when a thirdparty carrier is involved.

“In the case where SAA has a codeshare with Lufthansa: If an agent needs to book a further

destination in Europe like Frankfurt to Stockholm and it’s not a pure Lufthansa segment but a codeshare with SAS Scandinavian Airlines, the system won’t allow agents to issue a ticket because there is no ticketing agreement between SAA and SAS Scandinavian Airlines.”

And then there’s the issue of loyalty programmes.

Jim Weighell, Sure Travel’s corporate manager, says the tracking of “missing” frequent flyer awards can be a problem for agencies, citing the example of a Voyager passenger who claimed his miles weren’t credited for a Lufthansa flight.

Illona Viergever, owner of Club Travel Menlyn, says upgrading using Voyager miles can sometimes also be tricky. “Passengers cannot do this if it’s a codeshare flight, and also don’t receive all their miles when flying on a codeshare.” ■

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NEWS

TAAG launches CapeTownLuanda direct flights Melody Brandon

T

AAG Angola Airlines has launched its new service between Luanda and Cape Town, one of many new frequencies the airline is now operating.

The flights operate on Mondays and Fridays, departing from Cape Town at 14h00, arriving in Luanda at 17h00. The return service departs Luanda at 08h00 and arrives in Cape Town at 13h00.

“There has been a lot of interest in direct flights from Angolan expats and businessmen.

We identified that many passengers are connecting through Windhoek and Johannesburg. We are now meeting the demand of passengers wanting to fly directly from Cape Town,” explained TAAG sales director, José Agostinho.

The airline has also

launched a new frequency from Luanda to Havana, Cuba, which will initially operate once every three weeks.

“We are very excited to be launching this flight. It means that South African

“I think that connecting through OR Tambo is a hassle for many Cape Town-based travellers.” leisure passengers will be able to fly to Angola and straight on to Cuba instead of having to catch a number of connecting flights,” said José, adding that the airline would add more frequencies once demand rose.

In addition to the Cape Town and Havana flights, the airline started operating flights from Luanda to Maputo from November 16, in a codeshare with LAM Mozambique Airlines.

The flights operate on Mondays and Fridays, leaving Maputo at 11h30 and arriving in Luanda at 14h25. The return service departs Luanda at 14h40, arriving in Maputo at 19h10.

“I think that connecting through OR Tambo is a hassle for many Cape Townbased travellers. If the price is right, the airline will do well with these flights,” said Travel Counsellors ITC Charlene Ross.

Carla Rebello, senior corporate consultant at Harvey World Travel Blue Planet in Cape Town, says: “There are many business opportunities in Angola. It is a great initiative by the airline. My clients would usually have to travel to Johannesburg and then on to Luanda. This will make it a lot easier for them.”

The EU lifted its ban on the airline in June. ■

PillowTalk

A brief look at this week's hotel news

Serena Hotels refreshes five properties

SERENA Hotels has embarked on an extensive refurbishment programme to five of its Tanzanian properties over the next year.

Kirawira Luxury Tented Camp and Lake Manyara Serena Safari Lodge are already complete, with the renovation and replacement of soft furnishings in guest rooms and public areas, including the reception, lounge and dining areas. While the original architecture and traditional interiors have been retained, the properties have been given a fresh look with the newly fitted furnishings.

Ngorongoro Serena Safari Lodge is currently undergoing similar refurbishment and will be closely followed by Serengeti Serena Safari Lodge in the first quarter of 2010. Amboseli Serena Safari Lodge is currently undergoing a refurbishment that will see the renovation and extension of 29 guest rooms. Work should be complete by mid-December.

Mantis adds new property to its collection

MANTIS has added another property to its group of five-star boutique establishments and game reserves – the Views Boutique Hotel and Spa in the Wilderness along the Garden Route. The hotel, which opened its doors on November 1, offers 18 individually designed and styled suites, with floorto-ceiling windows taking full advantage of sea and mountain views. The penthouse apartment on the top floor comprises a bedroom, bathroom, separate lounge and dining area. Views has customised mood control lighting systems in every room, a pillow library, a private pool deck, a sea-view lounge, a fine dining restaurant and informal bistro, a conference facility, a games room, wireless Internet connectivity throughout the hotel, a spa and fitness centre.

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Wednesday November 18 2009 n 9

NEWS

Green shoots for domestic airlines Hilka Birns

T

HE domestic airline industry is showing signs of recovery but rising jet fuel prices on the back of increased demand and European carbon emission regulations will make it necessary to upgrade aircraft to make them more fuel efficient and environmentally friendly in future.

Mango Airlines ceo, Nico Bezuidenhout, said traffic levels had recovered in

September to the same levels as in September 2008, reversing a 5% market decline when compared with September 2007. He said the trick had been to bring costs right down and reduce capacity, while a sustainable brand and critical mass had also made a difference.

Comair executive manager, Yasas Sri-Chandana, said Comair’s numbers were aligned with those of Mango, with September 2009 traffic having recovered to

September 2008 levels.

“There are green shoots, but it is still early days. The impact of speculators on the fuel price will be a big problem and it makes it difficult to hedge. However, there are opportunities concerning available aircraft, but we expect aircraft prices to pick up quickly,” he said.

1time ceo, Rodney James, said its recovery happened in January 2009 and it had enjoyed growth for the first six months of this year. He ascribed this to corporate travellers shifting from legacy to low-cost carriers. He said more consumers were buying online, while legacy carriers were competing aggressively

on price with LCCs to regain lost market share.

SAA head: business development, Jason Krause, said the airline’s restructuring plans during the past two years had reflected in its past two reporting periods. However, he said, austerity had become the new consumerism and new computer technology provided viable substitutes to air travel.

“Legacy carriers need to revisit their value proposition,” he added. “In this climate, an airline must have a clear idea of its strategic intent, a robust long-term plan driven by the right people.”

Civair Airways ceo, Andy Cluver, said aviation charter

business had also seen an improvement in the past couple of months, mainly because of increased marketing.

ATNS executive manager service delivery, Boni Dibate, said air traffic movements in April 2009 had declined to 2006 levels, but were stabilising.

However, Air Zimbabwe group ceo, Peter Chikumba, said recovery was something written about in newspapers but not experienced yet on the ground.

“The airlines are going to funerals, while our partners (airports and air traffic navigation) are going to weddings,” he said. ■

Janine makes it happen for corporates Melody Brandon

*

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JANINE Chemaly from Harvey World Travel, Illovo, has over 30 years’ experience in the travel industry and although she didn’t plan on travel as a career, a stint at Thomas Cook saw her bitten by the travel bug.

“I thought travel was glamorous. It was only once I started working that I realised it was far from it! I did think about exploring other avenues over the years, but haven’t seriously considered leaving travel. Every day is different.

You never know what to expect,” she said.

Although corporate travel is not as diverse as leisure, Janine enjoys the challenges of working in the industry.

Janine, who works in corporate travel, is hoping her next trip will be a bit different – a trip to the Bahamas or a luxury cruise perhaps

Q&A Tell us a bit about yourself: I enjoy shopping at Chinese shops, cooking and entertaining, I am married and we have an adopted son, Sibu, who is four years old.

Your favourite movie? Casablanca.

Best travel memory? Going on my first overseas trip to Amsterdam.

What is your guaranteed pick me up? Spending time with my son or throwing a temper tantrum.

Worst travel memory? Being caught in a cyclone in Mauritius. Our flight was delayed for two days and the airport was

packed with people. It was hot and humid.

Eventually I lost it with the airline. It was not fun.

Where will we find you on a Sunday afternoon? Out for lunch in the country, or back from lunch, having a nap.

Where do you see yourself in the next 10 years? Retired, taking a welldeserved break.

Your life motto? You reap what you sow.

What do you enjoy about TNW? The articles are always very interesting. It’s great to see different people’s points of view.

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NEWS

JNB route ‘highly cherished’ – Arik

Cruises cancelled amid piracy fears

Natalia Thomson

Natasha Tippel

O

N the cusp of launching its Lagos to New York service on November 29, Arik Air’s ce Dr Michael Arumemi-Ikhide says the South African trade are responding positively to the Nigerian-based airline’s services to Johannesburg.

“We’re turning a corner and have demonstrated our commitment to the SA route. It’s a highly valued and cherished route and we’re committed to being here long term,” says Michael, who was visiting South Africa for the official launch of the route.

Although Arik’s regional expansion is controlled by the Lagos office, the airline’s longhaul network, says Michael, is run by Arik Air International, which is headquartered in London.

“We want to connect other continents to west and southern Africa through our Lagos and Abuja hubs. We’ve already connected Lagos with several West African

Arik’s team in South Africa (from left) country manager Rodger Whittle; marketing manager Isla Moffett and reservations supervisor, Jannie Claassen, at this month’s official launch in Johannesburg destinations, and governments in certain of these states have even asked us to replicate the Arik model and operate a national carrier.”

Focusing on its core business, Michael says, will mean that the airline will consolidate its operations over the next 12 months and

mature the London, New York and Johannesburg routes before introducing further international routes to Beijing, Houston and Paris. Special focus has also been placed on maturing the airline’s domestic and regional routes. “We’re replicating the Lagos footprint in Abuja so, for instance, have

introduced a direct service between Abuja and Calabar in south-eastern Nigeria.”

Arik Air, which intends completing its pre-Iosa audit before the end of this year, is meanwhile disputing the handing over of the General Aviation Terminal of Murtala Muhammed Airport in Lagos to Bi-Courtney Limited. The airline believes handing over GAT to to Bi-Courtney Aviation Services would be capable of causing a “complete paralysis of the operations of Arik Air as a Nigerian airline”.

Michael says the right airport infrastructure must be in place to ensure that operations on the ground in Nigeria are seamless.

This is especially in light of the “huge investment in aircraft” that Arik has made and its experience in developing terminals in Nigeria. “We will be flexible and work with the government to build reliable airport infrastructure. The dispute will certainly not jeopardise our operations on the ground.” ■

LUXURY cruise line company, Yachts of Seabourn, has cancelled its Indian Ocean and East Africa itinerary following the growing radius of pirate attacks in the region.

“The continuing attacks in the open seas and the resultant publicity were judged to have made it difficult to market a whole season of cruising in the region. And because the distances and logistics of getting to and from the region make it impractical to go for only a short period of cruising, we took the decision to relocate Seabourn Legend to the Caribbean instead,” says director of public relations, Bruce Good.

The Seabourn Legend was scheduled to sail during the 2010 and 2011 seasons between the Seychelles, Kenya, Zanzibar and Madagascar, among other countries.

Passengers already booked can select itineraries operated elsewhere in the world or get a refund for deposits. ■

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Wednesday November 18 2009 n 11

NEWS

Fairmont Zanzibar closed following fire Jeanette Phillips

T

HE Fairmont Zanzibar has been closed following a fire. A statement from the hotel said: “We have decided to close the resort while we fully assess the situation and subsequently repair the extensive damage to the various public facilities.”

The property is not expected to reopen until mid-2010. Guests and those with future bookings will be moved to alternative accommodations.

Fairmont has requested that a stop sell be instituted until further notice. Sales representatives will be in touch to answer questions. ■

Europcar offers baggage insurance Staff reporter EUROPCAR is offering personal baggage insurance that can be bought for a daily fee when making a reservation or at the time of vehicle pickup. Companies can take out individual or business blanket cover for their employees.

“This latest innovation is in line with international trends

where customers are opting for this inexpensive ‘peace of mind’,” said Europcar operations director, George Corbett.

Underwritten by Regent Insurance, PBI covers the renter and all passengers for any loss or theft from the rental vehicle including luggage, electronics and sports equipment amongst others. ■

New checks for older visitors to Oz Natasha Tippel THE Australian government has increased the age at which tourists and business visitors have to undergo a health check and provide travel or medical insurance for visits of up to three months.

From November 9, this requirement will apply to visitors aged 75 and over and not 70 years as previously required.

Travellers aged 75 years or

older now require: ● An original assessment from an Australian-approved panel doctor stating they are fit to travel (see list of panel doctors at http://www.immi.gov.au/ contacts/panel-doctors/ index.htm). Note: a fit-to-travel assessment is valid for six months, so should only be obtained within six months of proposed date of travel. An assessment is valid for one visa only. ● Evidence of travel or

medical/health insurance which, at a minimum, covers emergency medical treatment in, and medical evacuation from, Australia.

The evidence must include the name/s of the persons covered, period of coverage, which events are covered, coverage amount and confirm that the coverage applies in Australia.

The insurance needs to cover the full period of a traveller’s intended visit to Australia. ■

Travelinfo,s Hayley Cochran selects the top specials from Travelinfo ● Etihad Airways. Special launch fares ex-Cape Town to the Middle East, UAE, Europe and the UK from R2 500 in economy class and R14 600 in business class. Valid for sales until November 30 and for travel until May 31. Maximum stay for Europe is six months and for the Middle East is three months. Excludes taxes. ● Thompsons Holidays – Disneyland Paris special offers from R8 639 per person sharing. The rate includes return flights ex-Johannesburg, airport taxes, three nights’ accommodation, breakfast, four-day entrance pass to theme parks and Disney Studios.

Two children under seven stay and play free. Valid until December 10. ● Protea Hotel Parktonian All Suite is offering weekend special rates of R1 160 for a single suite or R1 480 for a sharing suite. Special includes two nights’ accommodation, buffet breakfast, two tickets to see Amoja, 20% discount on dinner and late check-out. Valid until December 6.

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QUICK READ FOR DECISION-MAKERS

AirHeads Iberia overhauls business offering

IBERIA Airlines has announced a major overhaul of its intercontinental Business Plus class by removing an entire row of business-class seats. This will increase the space between rows by more than 30cm. The total personal space for each passenger will now exceed 2,2m. The change is being effected to Iberia’s fleet of Airbus A340s used between Spain and the US, Latin America, South Africa and Tel Aviv. Business-class seats in the A340-600s will drop from 52 to 42, and in the A340-300s from 42 to 36. The company is also working on a new design and new fittings for its long-haul Business Plus class as of 2012. Under the airline’s Total Customer Care Programme, Iberia will also fully remodel the VIP lounges in Madrid-Barajas airport, add limousine services at the airports of Buenos Aires, São Paulo, and Mexico City, offer online check-in to all destinations and boarding with cellphone, and add new features to the Iberia Plus frequent flyer programme, including a new Platinum membership card.

Air Zimbabwe adds Johannesburg service

AIR Zimbabwe is to add a fifth frequency between JNB and Bulawayo on Thursdays. The airline currently operates the service on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays and Sundays. Flights depart Bulawayo at 11h00, arriving in JNB at 13h20. The return service departs Johannesburg at 14h25, arriving in Bulawayo at 16h35.

Regional Air Services goes green

REGIONAL Air Services in Tanzania will, from this month, start offsetting some of its carbon footprint with Carbon Tanzania.

Carbon Tanzania forms part of Regional Air Services’ corporate responsibility programme, aimed to contribute to the sustainable welfare of Tanzania’s people and environment. It is geared to protect and regenerate existing indigenous forests in Tanzania through community-based natural resource management.

Air New Zealand orders Airbus A320s

AIR New Zealand has ordered 14 Airbus A320 aircraft to replace its existing domestic fleet of 15 Boeing 737-300s. The A320, which is larger than the B737, will enable Air New Zealand to increase capacity on routes that are starting to face capacity constraints at some airports during peak times. Air New Zealand has also placed purchase options for a further 11 A320 aircraft, including the possibility of selecting the larger A321. The A320 has the widest fuselage of any single-aisle aircraft, a significant factor in added passenger comfort. A new cabin design offers a significant increase in overhead stowage, dramatic ambience lighting options and noticeable noise reduction.

NEWS

BA’s third daily flight returns in March 2010 Natalia Thomson

B

RITISH Airways’ loss of its third daily Johannesburg flight is only temporary, says Sue Botes, commercial manager Southern Africa, Mauritius and Seychelles.

“We have temporarily lost our third flight into Johannesburg but are planning to bring it back on March 28 and the three flights will be operated in full throughout the World Cup. The schedule to Johannesburg is still double daily and the load factors are very good.”

This comes as the airline announced its half-year interim management report, which indicated that further changes would be necessary to ensure the airline became profitable in the long term.

British Airways announced an operating loss of £111m (R1,4bn) vs the £140m (R1,8bn) profit it has announced during the same period in 2008. Its revenue is reportedly down 13,7%.

Although the airline was “quick to respond” to the economic crisis, it is likely further cuts will have to be

made to improve its liquidity, says spokesperson, Stephen Forbes. “We don’t see a rapid recovery happening any time soon. The market feels like it has bottomed but we think the recovery will certainly be slow.”

Special deals

Echoing ce Willie Walsh’s statements on yield pressures, Sue said despite the success of various promotions that had been put into the market, the airline needed to see improved yields. “Because the South African market is a very price-conscious one, we have looked at different areas where we can stimulate demand and have launched several special deals like our new Christmas special and a new World Offer fare valid until March 31.”

British Airways, Sue says, has tried to introduce more flexible fares in the SA market to counter the global decision not to refund the fuel surcharge portion of tickets on unflown tickets.

“We’ve introduced semiflexible fares in the SA market to address this, so

with our lowest lead-in fares, for example, you would still get a refund. It’s only on our restrictive fares – the very low fares – that our global policy of not refunding the fuel surcharge applies.”

Sue says the increased APD and the visa requirement for South Africans are being felt. “APD is making the UK uncompetitive as a hub and the timing really is terrible.

We see the government move to increase APD as contradictory when so much investment has been made to make Heathrow an aviation hub.”

The airline has also announced it would assist passengers with the cost of their UK visa when they book and pay by November 15 for travel until March 31 to Europe.

World Traveller and World Traveller Plus passengers to specified European destinations will be offered a discount of R655 of the airfare to use towards a transit visa. Club World and first-class passengers travelling to specified European destinations will receive a discount of R3 010 (two-year visa). ■

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Cotonou, Benin A first trip to Cotonou can leave travellers with the impression that it is chaotic. But one quickly realises that it is a chaos that works. Natasha Tippel reports.

C

OTONOU is the economic capital of Benin, as well as its largest city. It houses many of Benin’s government and diplomatic services, therefore, it is effectively Benin’s capital, even though

the official capital is PortoNovo. The city lies in the south-east of the country, between the Atlantic Ocean and Nokoué Lake. It is a major port and also home to an airport and a railway that links to Parakou.

Useful information Language: The main languages spoken in Cotonou include Fon, Aja, Yoruba and French.

Currency: CFA franc Local time: GMT + 1.

Climate: It is hot and humid with two rainy seasons (April to July and September to October) and two dry seasons. December to January is windy. The annual temperature varies between 18°C and 35°C. Transportation: Cotonou has one of the largest ports in West Africa. The city is connected to Parakou in the north of the country by the Benin-Niger railway. Cotonou International Airport provides services to the capitals of the region, to France and the major cities of Benin: Parakou, Kandi, Natitingou, Djougou and Savé. There are road connections to Nigeria, Burkina Faso, Niger and Togo.

A number of local firms offer car hire. An international driving licence is required.

Economy: The city is a so-called market town,

enabling trade with countries such as Mali, Burkina Faso and Niger. There is a free trade zone in the interior of the city for use by the landlocked Saharan states.

Important manufactured goods include palm oil and cake, brewing, textiles and cement. Motor vehicles and bicycles are assembled and there are also sawmills in the city. Petroleum products, bauxite and iron are major exports. There are also offshore platforms drilling for oil.

The city is a centre for the automotive trade, with European brands sold from vast open-air parking lots.

Visas: South African citizens do not require entry visas to Benin for a stay not exceeding 30 days.

Requirements: Malaria prophylaxis, yellow fever, meningitis and cholera vaccination card.

Electric power: 220V running at 50Hz. Round-pin plug types with ground-view are used.

Sources: Wikipedia and Travelinfo

The drivers with yellow shirts are called kekenos (bike-man). Kekenos and their zemidjans (motorcycle-taxis) are uniquely Beninese and very common in the country’s urban areas Photo: Caleb Ficner

Recommendations Fly

Interair has been operating to Cotonou for the past eight years. Flights depart Johannesburg on Mondays and Thursdays, returning Wednesdays and Fridays.

“Through various NEPAD initiatives, Benin and South Africa are developing co-operation projects, especially in the field of communications, IT, transport and tourism. Interair provides an essential air services link between the two countries and business has steadily been on the increase,” says interline manager of Interair South Africa, Morag Lanzendorf.

Interair offers full service in both business and economy classes. The route is operated by Boeing 737 or 727 aircraft.

Interair offers connecting services from Cotonou to Bamako, Bangui and Douala in collaboration with Aero Benin.

Corporates travelling from SA can also fly from Johannesburg to Cotonou via Lagos, Nigeria, on Arik Air. Flights depart Lagos four times a week on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays and Sundays at 11h30, arriving in Cotonou at 12h25.

Return flights depart Cotonou at 07h30 and arrive in Lagos at 08h15.

Stay

Tribe Communications recommends the following hotel accommodation in Cotonou: ● The Novotel Orisha Cotonou is a threestar hotel with a seafront location in the centre of Cotonou, close to the Palais des Congrès (convention centre) and the International Conference Centre. It has 110 air-conditioned rooms, a restaurant, two bars and five conference rooms for meetings and seminars. The hotel also has a private car park and a swimming pool. ● Right by the sea, the Ibis Cotonou is located in the heart of the business district, 10 minutes from the city centre.

The hotel offers 101 air-conditioned rooms with WiFi access, three of which are adapted for persons with limited mobility.

The hotel also features a bar, the Orisha restaurant and a 24-hour snack service and private parking.

See

Popular landmarks in Cotonou include the Friendship Stadium, Cotonou Cathedral, Cotonou Central Mosque, the Ancient Pont Bridge, the 20-hectare Dantokpa Market and the National University of Benin.

Australia, for a Fabulous Fare Fly fabulous with Richard Branson’s newest international airline.

Non-stop Johannesburg to Melbourne from 13 March 2010.

Book online at www.vaustralia.co.za or see your local travel agent.

INtErNAtIONAl EcONOMy rEtUrN

Airline of

R7,999

*

All fares are subject to availability and are for International Economy return travel. Fares are inclusive of all taxes & surcharges and subject to currency fluctuations. On-sale until 16 November 2009. For travel 01 May – 08 Jun 10. Non-stop flights from Johannesburg to Melbourne due to commence 13 March 2010 and are subject to regulatory approval. Visit www.vaustralia.co.za for full terms and conditions.

*

TNW3715SD

14 n Wednesday November 18 2009

VSA_10x5_TNWR

QUICK READ FOR DECISION-MAKERS

Victoria Falls Despite Zimbabwe’s economic woes and political frustrations, Victoria Falls is drawing the crowds. Kate Els reports...

Vic Falls’ popularity grows

A

LTHOUGH Victoria Falls has lost some footing as a popular tourist destination in recent years due to political turmoil and related incidents, it is again becoming a tourist hot spot for South African visitors, say suppliers.

“South Africans are looking for shorter stay getaways due to the current economic climate,” says Stacey Barnett, sales manager of Sun International Dreams.

“The area has a huge amount to offer for all age groups and different interests, from the extreme to the serene. This is a big deciding factor for families who are increasingly

looking for destinations that cater for the entire family’s interests.”

Stacey says the Victoria Falls area is a value-formoney destination for South Africans because of increased competition in the area.

Michele Abraham, marketing manager of Rani Resorts, says its property, the Stanley and Livingstone Hotel, has seen a definite increase in bookings from South Africans despite the recession. Michele also notes that the introduction of the US dollar in Zimbabwe has stabilised prices and guests’ spend can go further than before.

In the news

Rani Resorts teams up with Rovos Rail

Rovos Rail and Rani Resorts are offering an exclusive luxury getaway package for South African residents.

The package includes a two-night-stay at the five-star Stanley and Livingstone Hotel in Victoria Falls and a two-night journey on the luxury Rovos Rail between Pretoria and Victoria Falls (or vice versa).

This package is subject to availability of space on the Rovos journey and at the hotel.

Total cost per couple starts from R17 845pps or R25 608 single. This includes two nights in a de-luxe suite on Rovos Rail, all meals and alcoholic beverages on board, two nights at the Stanley and Livingstone Hotel on a bed and breakfast basis, return transfers from the station to the hotel (or vice versa) and Victoria Falls Airport, dinner at The Boma as well as an elephant-back excursion, lion walk, game drive and bush dinner per person per stay at the Victoria Falls Private Game Reserve. One-way airfare to or from Victoria Falls, is excluded.

This package is inclusive of agent’s commission, is subject to availability and valid until September 30, 2010.

Wild Horizons to open new lodge

A sunset cruise along the Zambezi River Photo: Natasha Tippel QUICK READ FOR busiest people

Wild Horizons has announced plans to open a new lodge near Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe.

The new lodge will be located on the company’s private concession from where it operates its popular elephant-back safaris.

Shane White, sales and marketing, says the new lodge will be based just 15 minutes from the town of Victoria Falls and will offer guests the unique experience of interacting with its orphaned and domesticated elephants on the concession.

The luxury tented lodge will overlook the Zambezi River gorge and offer a view of Rapid 11 along its rafting route.

“It’s a quick development process,” says

Shane, adding that the structures had been ordered from South Africa and that foundations were already being laid at the site.

Wild Horizons Sanctuary Lodge will have nine rooms with only 18 beds. Each room covers about 100 sqm and has a lounge area, an outdoor shower and a wooden deck. Concertina doors will open to a view of the gorge.

The concession lies on the border of the Victoria Falls National Park and various relocation efforts will be done with Zimbabwe’s National Parks to ensure that the area contains game that has moved away from the area over the years. This includes rhino and a possible cheetah breeding project.

The lodge is expected to open around the time of Indaba next year to allow for preand post tours for attending international buyers. It will be managed by Africa Albida Tourism.

African Sun acquires first Zambian property

African Sun Limited has recently acquired the Royal Chundu Zambezi River Lodge in Zambia.

This not only launches the group’s presence in Zambia but also introduces the first five-star luxury lodge to its portfolio.

The lodge is situated on the Livingstone side of the Victoria Falls, at the junction of Zambia, Botswana, Namibia and Zimbabwe.

The property features 14 rooms, described as Mainland or Island Suite Lodges.

Activities at the lodge include bird watching, canoe trips, game viewing and fishing as well as tours to the nearby Katambora Tribal Village.

Other features also include an infinity swimming pool on the mainland and private plunge pools on the island. A de-luxe spa will also be available.

Royal Chundu Zambezi River Lodge is expected to open its doors on November 15 after refurbishments.

Wednesday November 18 2009 n 15

TNW3695SD

Victoria Falls

72 hours in Victoria Falls With so many things to do and places to see in a limited time, this itinerary is designed to meet the needs and expectations of all tourists.

Afternoon:

Arrive via SAA/Air Zimbabwe/British Airways

Day 1 around lunchtime.

After settling into their accommodation, the rest of the afternoon can be spent exploring the Falls Park Shopping Centre or the Livingstone craft market for curios and local wooden cravings, ethnic drums and handcrafted cloth, followed by a stop for tea. In the early evening, those who prefer soft adventure can take a sunset cruise down the Zambezi River above the Falls. Sip on sundowners and feast on snacks, while viewing wildlife. Breakfast, lunch and dinner cruises are also available.

Victoria Falls offers accommodation and facilities to cater for all budgets and requirements – from top-end tourists to pocketconscious backpackers.

On the Zimbabwean side, accommodation includes:

● The three-star de-luxe Ilala Lodge, which borders the Victoria Falls National Park and is situated close to the Falls and the town centre. Its rooms have en-suite bathrooms. ● The four-star Victoria Falls Safari Lodge is just five minutes from Victoria Falls town and is on the boundary of the Zambezi National Park. The lodge is a masterpiece of thatch and wood with 72 en-suite bedrooms. Facilities include the Buffalo bar, Makuwa-Kuwa Restaurant and the Boma Restaurant. ● The five-star Victoria Falls Hotel is set in the Victoria Falls National Park. The luxurious suites are furnished in Edwardianstyle and facilities include the Livingstone Room, Stanley’s Terrace and Jungle Junction. ● The five-star de-luxe Stanley and Livingstone is a Victorian-style all-suite luxury hotel in the Victoria Falls Private Game Reserve.

Facilities include a swimming pool, tranquil gardens, a dining room and pool bar.

On the Zambian side, accommodation includes:

● Chanters Lodge in Livingstone, only a 20-minute drive from the Falls. Accommodation includes family rooms, pool-facing doubles, economy rooms – all on a bed and breakfast basis. ● Kaazmein Lodge & Resort, close to Livingstone, offers chalets, main lodge rooms (B&B), budget rooms, dormitories for backpackers and camping. Facilities include restaurants, bars and an entertainment centre. Trips can be arranged to the snake park, wildlife and bird sanctuaries. ● Kay’s Guesthouse is located on the airport road, two minutes from Livingstone and a few kilometres from the Falls and offers B&B and self-catering accommodation. Services include airport transfers, tours to the Victoria Falls game park, and boat cruises. ● The three-star Zambezi Sun, on the edge of the eastern cataract of the Falls, has en-suite bedrooms, guest rooms, restaurants and a convention centre. There is an adventure centre, an entertainment area and Kamp Kwena for kids. ● The five-star River Club, 18km upstream from the Falls, faces the Zambezi National Park. Situated in a secluded area, it has 10 luxury thatched chalets overlooking the Zambezi River.

The ultimate wildlife experience – a sunrise elephant-back safari Photo: Natalia Thomson

Day 2

Spend the day at Victoria Falls Morning:

On the Zambian side of Victoria Falls, enjoy an early breakfast at Zig Zag Café, Livingstone. On the Zimbabwean side, a full English breakfast buffet is served at the Palm Restaurant at Ilala lodge.

After breakfast the Shearwater Adventures Victoria Falls Bridge Tour is recommended – a journey under the Victoria Falls Bridge with highly trained and experienced guides. This can be followed by either a

helicopter or microlight flip that lasts between 13 and 30 minutes.

Just before lunch, adrenalin junkies will thrill to the 111m bungee jump off the Victoria Falls Bridge into the Zambezi.

Lunch can be enjoyed at Fego’s Restaurant in the Zambezi Sun. On the Zimbabwean side, dine at the Makuwa-Kuwa located in the Victoria Falls Safari Lodge.

Afternoon and evening:

A choice between whitewater rafting and white-river

kayaking on the Zambezi.

Dinner: The Boma, located at the Victoria Falls Safari Lodge, is a dining experience that involves a hand-washing ceremony, Shangaan and Ndebele dancers and a visit to the Sangoma. The Palms Restaurant offers a choice of venison liver, crocodile, Zambezi bream, ostrich medallions, game steak and crocodile tail.

After dinner guests can choose between horse riding on night trails or a night game drive

Enjoy the ‘Big Five’ and all the wildlife the Falls has to offer.

Day 3 Morning:

After an early breakfast, guests can choose from two threehour activities provided by Wild Horizons: ● Those with a thirst for adventure can take the Wild Horizons Victoria Falls ‘Adventure Pass’ and experience the Lion Encounter.

● Guests can enjoy a sunrise elephant-back safari with the Wild Horizons Victoria Falls ‘Safari Pass’. Clients are treated to an intimate bush safari and given an insight into the workings and efforts of protecting and caring for orphaned animals.

designed 18-hole golf course ● Fishing on the Zambezi River ● A two-hour wine route ● A beauty treatment at the local Spa and Wellness Centre ● Gamble at the local casino ● Visit the David Livingstone Museum

Other options:

Check out of your accommodation and depart.

● Golf on the Gary Player-

Midday:

TNW3708SD

QUICK READ FOR busiest people

Wednesday November 18 2009 n 17

AGENTZONE the

agent

AGENT ALERTS ■ Extra flight for Iberia Airlines

Go the extra mile!

Iberia Airlines has announced it will operate an additional flight on Sunday, December 27, 2009.

Scenario: A honeymoon package to Mauritius for two. A specific tour operator’s package was asked for.

XL Travel Bedfordview, Bedford Centre

The agency was pleasant with inviting staff. Linsay Nelson was friendly and immediately phoned the tour operator I was interested in and asked for quotes. While she did give me other brochures, she was interested only in what I was looking for.

She sent me a comprehensive quote first thing next morning, offering me two different options, outlined what the packages did and did not include as well as price. She also suggested how I could make payment, what supporting documents I needed to get to her and outlined passport requirements. If I was an anxious bride to be, Linsay would be my first port of call.

She paid attention to detail and offered information and advice I would not be aware of as an infrequent traveller. The ‘honeymoon extras’ were a great touch. She made me feel that she wanted me to have the best honeymoon possible. Given the friendliness of the staff, who were all excited about my trip, it is not surprising that this is the second time XL Travel Bedfordview has won a Naked Agent.

KL advises Galileo agents that there is a technical fault which is being investigated by KL head office with regard to KL Direct Access availability in Galileo. When booking KL, please avoid using Direct Access and only use neutral availability displays (with KL carrier preference). KL will advise when the fault has been resolved.

■ Qantas introduces R class

Winning agent: Linsay Nelson

Qantas has introduced the R inventory class for use in the international Premium Economy cabin for departures on or after November 16, 2009.

Linsay was friendly and efficient; she called for quotes straight away and was determined to make a sale

Flight Centre Eastgate, Eastgate Shopping Centre

Lusoglobo Travel Agency, Bruma

Flight Centre Eastgate is a very neat and tidy agency and it is clear to see why is so busy.

The agent was very friendly and she had good knowledge of the product she was selling. She immediately gave me brochures to look at and was very attentive. Another agent asking for advice was a bit distracting. The agent took down my details and sent through a quote as promised and called to check that I had received it. However, although this agent was efficient, friendly and more than competent, she did not inspire me as much as Linsay and her team had. It was a tough call between the two agencies.

The agency is very attractive but I wandered around aimlessly for about five minutes before someone noticed me.

The agent did not introduce herself and indicated to the chair for me to sit. When I asked her for the package I wanted she said she would send me an email which she did.

However, she did not offer me any brochures or discuss what I was looking for specifically.

Although the agent was polite and friendly, she didn’t engage with me much and seemed a bit distracted. The interaction was brief and very impersonal. If I was planning my honeymoon, I would certainly shop around a bit more.

★★★

★★

linsay's tips

Give the client what they Listen to what your client Get excited about your 3 2 1 client’s want.

Explain that you is asking for and don’t force trip. Be enthusiastic them into anything.

18 n Wednesday November 18 2009

Lufthansa SA is implementing a Ticket Service Charge (TSC) which will be collected separately from the ticket. For Lufthansa it is imperative that there is a clear distinction between the flight product on the one hand and the consultation and processing on the other. ● When does the Lufthansa Ticket Service Charge apply?

The Ticket Service Charge is a once-off charge when purchasing a Lufthansa ticket at Lufthansa ticket counters at JNB and CPT International airports, the LH Reservation Centre or via www.lufthansa. co.za ● How is the total cost of your air ticket calculated?

The total cost of the ticket comprises the ticket price, taxes and the Ticket Service Charge.

Airfare incl. taxes + Lufthansa Ticket Service Charge = Cost. ● What is the cost of the Lufthansa Ticket Service Charge?

The Ticket Service Charge will be R300 for adults and children. No further TSC will be charged for rebooking, reissues or cancellations.

This fee is non refundable.

■ Technical fault KL – Galileo

★★★★

and involved.

■ Lufthansa levies Ticket Service Charge

need to make sure what they are asking for is available, but do not push them.

■ Interair clarifies refunds policy

General: On fares that do not carry a cancellation penalty, there is an administration fee on refunds of R300 + R42 VAT on tickets purchased in ZA. On tickets purchased in ZM or BW, US$35, or for tickets purchased in CWA to JNB XAF/XOF50000, or to Central/West Africa XAF/XOF 30000.

Tickets are non-transferable i.e. a name change on a ticket is not permissible.

If you are unsure of the exact amounts due for refund, please make a refund request for airline authority via BSP Link. ● Totally unused tickets: E-tickets: Process directly through your GDS Auto Refunds. You are encouraged to effect refunds of unused tickets within one month after the last travel date validity of a ticket/fare, as the ETR is purged shortly thereafter, which would result in a delay in obtaining a refund.

Paper tickets: Process directly through GDS Auto Refunds. Send the relevant unused coupons with pax coupon to John at D6 Refund Dept, PO Box 88, Bruma, 2026, Johannesburg. ● Partially used tickets: E-tickets: Process refund through GDS Auto Refunds according to applicable refund due for unused coupons Paper tickets: Process through GDS Auto Refunds according to applicable refund due for unused coupons. Send the relevant unused coupons with pax coupon to John at D6 Refund Dept, PO Box 88, Bruma, 2026, Johannesburg. ● Unused MPDs & PTAs: All PTA refunds must be uploaded for airline authority on BSP Link. Airline authority requests will only be actioned after confirmation that no ticket has been issued against the PTA.

See Travelinfo for more details QUICK READ FOR DECISION-MAKERS

SpecialiZed Travel perSonnel

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.

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

■ V Australia has appointed Isabel Hancock (right) as its regional commercial manager, Southern Africa. Isabel joins the airline with more than 20 years’ experience in aviation, with Swissair and Swiss International Air Lines in South Africa, including stints as chairman of the Board of Airline Representatives of South Africa and serving as a trustee and a director of the Board of Aviation Co-ordination Services.

Her responsibilities with V Australia will include liaison with regulatory authorities and government agencies, overseeing ground handling

Reservations and Ticketing Position in Cape Town

Requirements ● At least 2 years relevant experience. ● Able to work under pressure and be proactive ● Previous Airline experience an advantage. ● Fluent in English ● Duties include ticketing, reservation and fare construction.

Holiday

To advertise on this page contact Lana on 011 214 7313 or email

AVIATION Have vacancies for SALES EXECUTIVES minimum 3 years experience.

lanas@nowmedia.co.za

Send C.V. to g.richter@holidayholdings.co.za Ph: 011 289 8164 Only shortlisted applicants will be contacted

TNW5036

and general sales agent arrangements, corporate sector business development, retail and wholesale travel industry liaison and marketing initiatives for the region.

Exciting opportunities at Club Med Sales Executive servicing Travel Agent partners

Personnel with the personal touch FINANCIAL MANAGER/ISANDO

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

Plan and implement all operational aspects for 2010 DMC Project!!

NATIONAL SALES MANAGER/

Sales Consultant Intermediate consultant min 2 yrs travel + GDS preferably Amadeus

NORTHERN SUBURBS

INTERMEDIATE WHOlESAlE Hands on position with total responsibility for CONSUlTANT/ROSEBANK Key Account Managers and Business Handle Outbound for Development Reservations Managers!

Leading Tour Operator!!

Sales Support Min 2 yrs travel + GDS + good organizational skills

BRAND MANAGER/

PORTUGUESE SPEAKING INBOUND NORTHERN SUBURBS CONSUlTANT/WEST RAND Person strong in Marketing invited to join Work closer to home for Innovative leading Wholesaler!

Incentive Company!!

SENIOR CONSULTANT/BOKSBURG

Kindly send a short CV to Susan Pryor Susan_Pryor@singaporeair.com.sg Closing date: 25 November 09 Only successful candidates will be contacted for interviews.

JUNIOR ACCOUNTS Join well established, friendly ClERK/WEST company and work RAND closer to home!

Driver’s licence essential!!

eQUiTY CONNeCTiONS cc

Pricing and Contracting Executive - JOHANNESBURG Travel qualification and 10 years experience in the travel industry 5 years experience in a buying and negotiating environment.

Manage the pricing and contracting of a product portfolio and compile brochure packages Analysing statistics and market trends and reporting thereon

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

TNW4912

OPERATIONS MANAGER Exceptional position for highly skilled person with in-depth Inbound experience and ability to lead great team.

IN-BOUND GENERAl MANAGER Sound knowledge of Southern Africa, proven leadership abilities and extensive in-bound experience could secure.

RATES AND RESERVATIONS Intermediate opening to suite computer expert with understanding of rates/reservations, loading etc.

SENIOR OUT-BOUND INCENTIVES CONSUlTANT Superb opportunity to join leading Operator and impress with sound Incentives know-how and desire to travel!

EVENTS ORGANISER A ‘hands-on’ position for senior with relevant experience. Secure great future with well established Company.

Call NadiNe (011) 803 0056 or e-mail equitycon@mweb.co.za for these and many others! TNW1997

TNW2048 TNW2048

Please Take Note of Our New Telephone No.: 011 704 4909

Interested parties to fax CV to 086 518 5972

Please send an updated CV to hr@thompsons.co.za listing which position you are interested in. All CV’s are to be received before the 25 November 2009 and only shortlisted candidates will be communicated with.

TNW5069

INbOUNd GENERAL MANAGER - JHb

Opp to make your mark with this well established, successful incentive house! Varied functions await the hands-on Manager with a B.Comm marketing or similar qualif coupled with a proven track record within the inbound or incentives sector. Responsibilities would include int’l sales trips, marketing, leading &managing a small dept. Highly neg offer.

LUXURY LOdGES – SOUTH

Breathtaking opportunity exists at this elite conservation luxury lodge operator! Working in a magmatic super glued team being customer centric focussed on USA clientele, bring along your combination of Groups & FIT’s Tour Consulting expertise. Basic plus commission with 6 month retainer to help you get on your feet!

TNW4530

THIS WEEK’S TOP JObS CAPE TOWN “COOL” CALL CENTRE – Cbd

Utilize your solid business German speaking ability at this upmarket airline with world renowned reputation!

Your crispy clear voice along with your ultra professional approach secures you the pilots seat here! Starting salary R6100 + 6 weeks paid training + 2/3 company contrib.+ med for entire family… plus plus plus!!!

JOHANNESbURG

CAPE TOWN

dURbAN

SENIOR INbOUNd FIT’S - NORTH

SPECIAL GROUPS – Cbd

CONTROL CREdITORS!

Do you thrive in a personalised, upmarket environment? Then we have the position for you!

Highly successful, professional inbound operator requires your excellent knowledge of South & Southern Africa and creative flair to design enticing tailor-made packages for the international market. Impress these clients with your sound consulting skills & customer service excellence! R18 000 neg.

Tel: Tracey (011) 803 6606 rivonia@nowjobs.co.za

QUICK READ FOR busiest people

Niche market operator with German market specialization requires your previous Groups experience to join this forward thinking team. Destination knowledge on South Africa is key coupled with your ability to compile varied itineraries, costings and more!

Superb offices with views fit for a king. Come claim your throne now! R10 000

Tel: Wayne (021) 418 1084 capetown@nowjobs.co.za

Tel: Jill (031) 201 8330 durban@nowjobs.co.za

Game Ranger - Limpopo Small, up-market private game lodge requires a female game ranger. Must have Big 5 experience and have all the required qualifications. Kati Entry Level Opportunities – Dbn, Cpt and Jhb Do you know anyone who has travelled overseas to a few countries or did an overseas GAP year? Are they keen to get into travel? Excellent opportunities are available to join top travel company. A good basic salary is on offer as well as an excellent commission scheme with money earned from the first booking made – no minimum target has to be reached! Kati Jnr Consultant – Eastern Suburbs Opportunity coming up for next year, with commencement date being 01 February.

Your 1 year’s travel experience is required to join top leisure travel company. Candidates must enjoy interacting with the public and have a confident, outgoing personality. Kati

Travel Assistant - Midrand Be employed by a corporate company working in their travel department. There is a lot of emphasis on administrative duties and reconciling travel accounts and this position is well suited for a candidate who does not want a front-line position. Consulting and administrative skills are required. Kati

Reservations Consultants (Intermediate and Senior) – CAPE TOWN AND JOHANNESBURG 5 years in the travel industry (preferably wholesale or retail) Travel qualification essential Target driven and a team player

CAPE TOWN

Manage Small Game Lodge - Limpopo Take responsibility for managing a small, luxurious game lodge. Duties would include managing the staff, hosting quests (maximum 12), and F&B functions.

Candidates must be versatile and have cooking skills. R8000 plus full board and lodging. Kati

Rates Administrator - Sandton The focus will be to assist a team in ensuring that reports, statistics and information is produced and that rates are loaded, maintained and filed. This highly successful inbound operator needs a team player with strong computer skills and the ability to interface with their staff. Kati

Airline Contracting Executive - JOHANNESBURG Travel Qualification 10 years in the travel industry together with airline contracting and fare negotiation experience Good knowledge of GDS system (Amadeus preferred)

JOHANNESbURG

Reservations - Jhb A contract position managing accommodation bookings for the 2010 World Cup. The contract will run from 01 December 2009 until end of July 2010.

Candidates must have reservations and systems experience and have management skills as they will ultimately be responsible for a team of people. Will be handling very high volumes of bookings. A pressurised and demanding position. Will be dealing primarily with overseas and local tour operators and through the website. R8000/R12000. Kati

Marketing Assistant – Sandton Join highly respected company. Will be involved with road-shows, promotions, workshops and exhibitions and must have previous experience handling these functions within the travel industry. Candidates must also have some experience in working with the media. An exceptionally pleasant working environment. R12000/R15000. Kati

TNW3709SD

lee botti & associates

Snr Consultant – Inhouse Centurion One-man inhouse operation. Handle complex international bookings plus provide support to the PA’s who utilise the online booking system, working on Amadeus.

Will be handling international bookings with Asia & Middle East being frequent destinations & then USA and Europe. The consultant must be highly proficient and have excellent service standards. The ability to communicate in Afrikaans is highly preferable. R16000/R19000. Kati

Prestigious travel & events management company seeks your supervisory skills, and expertise in controlling large volume Creditors accounts. Superb opportunity to get your foot in the door of this elite establishment! Prior exp within the travel industry essential, and knowl of Quicktrav a bonus. R9,000 neg Tel: Jill (031) 201 8330 / durban@nowjobs.co.za

See our website for a further selection of exciting vacancies! www.leebotti.co.za

Airline Storesperson – ORTIA The prime functions will be receiving, storing, dispatching spares and consumables; raising requisitions for spare parts on IAS System and inventory control. Candidates must have good knowledge of ABC class parts and be computer literate, with IAS System being a big advantage. A valid driver’s license is also essential. Logistics experience is required.

R6800. Joyce Cash Book Clerk - Sandton Be part of a busy accounts department handling the cash book function working on Pastel. Candidates must have strong cash book skills and be proficient on Pastel. Kati Help Desk Consultant – N/Suburbs Take inbound calls and emails requesting assistance with online bookings and ticketing. Will also assist with training. Must be proficient on Galileo. R6000. Kati General Manager Inbound Travel Well established incentive travel company with large blue-chip client base requires a GM for their inbound division. A highly negotiable package is on offer. Kati Portuguese Inbound Consultant Must be able to speak, read and write Portuguese fluently plus have the ability to independently put together inbound travel programs. Kati Processor – Sandton Play a supportive role to a team of inbound travel consultants. Candidates must have above average English writing ability as well as excellent keyboard/typing skills. Kati AA Office Admin Assistant – W/Suburbs A graduate with drivers license is required to handle various admin functions within a busy office, as well as take responsibility for submitting and collecting group visas and general collections and deliveries. Kati

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

TNW0714

Appointments

Retail Consultant wanting a change?

Become a Wholesale Consultant! Well known tour operator based Jhb N/Suburbs would like a consultant with a retail travel background, who is well-travelled and proficient on Amadeus . Must have 8 years travel industry experience. Will liaise with travel agents handling quotes and reservations for numerous international products. Be part of a well established company with excellent reputation. R12000.

Kati

Wednesday November 18 2009 n 19

TNW NEWS

Interlink awaits CAA go-ahead Melody Brandon

I

NTERLINK Airlines is awaiting CAA approval to operate flights from Wonderboom and is hopeful it will be given in time to launch flights from November 20.

The airline says the delay relates to the payload it can carry on its aircraft.

“We have the necessary air services licences in place to operate services from Wonderboom. The airline will be leasing two Bae 146 aircraft to operate the routes.

However, due to a delay in the delivery of these aircraft, the airline plans to operate its own B737 temporarily from November 20,” explained Interlink Airlines key account manager, Neil Baines.

The CAA said while the airline had a licence issued by the Air Service Licensing

Council (ASLC) for both scheduled and non-scheduled air services, Interlink requires an Air Operator Certificate from the CAA. “Based on a very late submission of performance figures by the operator, the CAA was not convinced the aircraft/airport operational combination to be used by the operator was satisfactory for this operation and that the applicable parts of the Civil Aviation Regulations and Technical Standards will be complied with,” said CAA ceo, Captain Colin Jordaan.

Regarding agents’ concerns about not being able to book via the gds, Neil said: “Interlink would like to apologise for difficulties being experienced when booking via the gds.

“Our technicians are currently working on the problem.” ■

brought to you by eTNW and TRAVELINFO

2010, no good for business How do you think the FIFA World Cup in June next year will affect SA retailers’ revenue?

■ It will have little effect; be down 10% to 20% – 30% ■ Down 20% to 30% – 15% ■ Down by more than 30% – 55% “I cannot believe the domestic flights are all blocked already so the usual business of SA will be radically affected.” Brigitte Straeuli, Sure Adcocks Travel

To sponsor this poll contact Kate on 011 214 7334 or e-mail katen@nowmedia.co.za

Letter to the editor

Holiday Holdings group md, Gavin Simpson, responds to rumours about the imminent financial collapse of certain suppliers We have established that the rumours are being spread mainly by the staff of a particular national retail group which has its own in-house tours division, as a malicious tactic that is obviously intended to deceitfully divert business away from independent wholesalers to their own company or alternatively to other preferred partner wholesalers who are willing to ‘buy’ business by Gavin Simpson paying excessive front- and back-end override incentives. partner’ override commissions based on the Those naïve, gullible and inexperienced young perceived national critical mass distribution consultants are being let loose to counsel capabilities of those outlets, has become one of customers about the financial fitness of reliable the main reasons why so many suppliers are now tour operators (most of which have been around opting for direct-sell strategies wherever possible longer than they have been alive), presumably in order to protect their market share and to relying on fabricated, insinuated indoctrination circumvent this kind of commercial ambush. by unscrupulous superiors with devious ulterior Those retail groups that perpetuate the motives, to fuel their malicious victimisation preferred partner practice and who are so quick campaign. to challenge the airlines, car-rental companies, The preferred partner override incentive hotel groups and tour operators for ‘going direct’ element often has the effect of inflating prices are effectively orchestrating their own demise by to the consumer whilst lining the pocket of the forcing alienated principals to find alternative consultant or agency with incremental earnings ways of doing business. The old ‘customer is from those covert bribes and inducements. This king’ adage has unfortunately been replaced by a is done at the expense of the unsuspecting ‘kickback is king’ philosophy. customer who is denied the right to have In order to quell that professional, impartial “We have instructed our small band of ill-informed and unbiased information bankers to furnish the detractors who are about the best product and Association of South African responsible for spreading the best price to match specific needs.

Travel Agents with a voluntary libellous and unfounded rumours about the financial By fabricating false customer fidelity fund standing of our company we claims about the financial guarantee for an amount of have instructed our bankers credibility of nonpreferred wholesalers, the R10m as collateral security.” to furnish the Association of South African Travel Agents unprincipled perpetrators of those dangerous rumours often mislead clients with a voluntary customer fidelity fund guarantee for an amount of R10m as collateral security, by coercing them to purchase inferior products at so that all Asata members may deal confidently inflated prices to ‘milk’ higher yields, with scant with Holiday Tours in the knowledge that we concern for the real needs of the customer. This practice is dishonest and deceitful and, hopefully, have taken it upon ourselves to provide peace of mind and protection for our friends in the retail it is an issue that can be addressed by the new trade. Whilst it is unlikely that any other private Consumer Protection Act. limited wholesale company will be in a position We have compiled a dossier on one particular to furnish that level of financial security to the retail travel group that has deliberately set about industry, we consider it necessary to take such defaming our company by making slanderous an unprecedented step to counter the effects of comments to the public and to other players in these defamatory tactics. the industry since we rejected their efforts to We felt that it was the best way to divulge the secure an outrageous override commission from true financial bona fides of our company and to us. provide reassurance to the vast majority of ethical We have affidavits signed by members of retail agents who have trusted in the Holiday the public who have been on the receiving end Tours brand for so many decades. It is important of those malicious comments and we have to note that the proceeds of this guarantee would copies of taped conversations in which blatant be payable to Asata members only, in the highly defamatory statements have been made by different consultants from that organisation about unlikely event that we should fail to meet our financial obligations. It obviously does not cover our company. The time has come for us to deal with this matter to protect our legal rights and we agents and their clients against the financial failure of an airline or any other principal that intend to take decisive action now that TNW has may provide services to the clients of Holiday also exposed this scam.

Tours, as clearly no operator is in a position to The strategy of those national retail chains that offer such open-ended security on behalf of every employ ‘commercial blackmail’ tactics to get supplier in the industry. ■ principals to pay unrealistic so called ‘preferred

TNW3443SD

20 n Wednesday November 18 2009

QUICK READ FOR DECISION-MAKERS

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