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1512E
Southern Africa’s Travel News Weekly
September 9 2009 I No. 2074
Terms and conditions apply.
086 11 00 424
www.budget.co.za
INSIDE
TRAVEL NEWS WEEKLY
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Report
Feature
Good communication can seal the deal!
South Africans go ape Page 8
State of industry survey Page 2
East Africa
How to
Monitor your client’s creditworthiness Linda Dempster’s tips Page 10
End of an era... OA’s JNB route axed Natalia Thomson
I
T enjoyed a tumultuous history and now after 41 years of flying the AthensJohannesburg route it looks likely Olympic Airlines’ services to South Africa will end this month. After years of state bail outs, the Greek government yielded to EU pressures and sold the airline to Marfin Investment Group in March. A new airline, Olympic Air, has been formed (as reported in TNW August 5, 2009) and will begin operations from October 1. Olympic Airlines’ long-haul inventory from that date has already been removed from the GDS and its website. An Olympic Airlines staff member told TNW that no flights on the Johannesburg-Athens route could be booked after that date and that the local office had not been advised as to the airline’s future plans. Olympic Airlines’ head office confirmed that any enquiries relating to the airline after September 30 would have to be referred to the new airline, Olympic Air. ITT outbound department co-ordinator, Stacey Rampersadh, says the Durban-based operator has not been definitely advised
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of the axed flights. “We were Olympic Airlines’ number one supporter in the SA market in 2008 and had been big supporters before then. One has to remember that despite the impression the airline’s departure will leave on the trade, the public may also be reluctant to use them again if they withdraw from the market in this condition.” Stacey predicts prices for packages to the Greek islands will likely increase as operators and agents are forced to factor in euro-pricing for domestic air segments in Greece. “Olympic Airlines offered us rand-based fares to the islands and we’ll now have to pay euro-based fares for the domestic leg. At least 90% of the packages we sell are Athens-islands combinations so prices will definitely go up.” According to Stacey, the airline has at least four months to decide whether it is going to carry SA traffic. “The timing is OK because from October to the end of March, travel to the Greek islands stops as the destination goes into winter.” Etihad Airways country manager Craig Thomas confirmed Etihad currently operated three flights a week from Athens to Johannesburg
via Abu Dhabi. “With a transit time of under three hours, Etihad offers the fastest transit between Greece and South Africa via the UAE.” Northbound services involve a transit of nine and a half hours, but passengers do not require a visa for direct airside transits through Abu Dhabi, says Craig. He says flights to Athens will be increasing to five a week on October 28 and to daily on December 31. “There’s been a significant increase in the level of support for our Athens route from the SA trade, with a high proportion of passengers stopping over in Abu Dhabi for a couple of days en route to Athens.” Meanwhile, Turkish Airlines announced this week it would be increasing its flights from Istanbul to Athens from 18 to 21 weekly. Turkish Airlines commercial manager in South Africa, Orhan Karaoglu, said: “Turkish Airlines flies to Athens three times daily with a flight time of about an hour and a half. “We are also planning to increase frequency from Cape Town and Johannesburg to Istanbul and we will also be increasing our IstanbulAthens route due to increased demand.” To page 12
Be an early bird with Beachcomber... A little birdie told TNW agents can save their clients up to 10% on accommodation and all-inclusive packages when paying early! Valid for packages for travel before October 31 with payment 30 days in advance of travel date, the early-bird special can be combined with any other special on offer. See Travelinfo for details. The special comes as Beachcomber launches its R40m “enhanced” Dinarobin Hotel Golf & Spa on Mauritius’s Le Morne peninsula. Dinarobin, officially opened on September 4, has been positioned as the ultimate fivestar property with no fewer than six swimming pools (five heated), redone bar, furniture changes and an additional restaurant, taking the number of restaurants available just at Dinarobin to four. Guests at Dinarobin may also use the restaurant facilities at neighbouring Paradis which offers five restaurants. Additional decking and water features have been added to make the property into a tropical paradise. Flocking together like birds of a feather are Beachcomber sales executives (from left) Gina Stanford and Nikki Fonzari who urge you to get your clients to the spruced up Dinarobin Photo: Tijana Huysamen
TNW NEWS
Top web stories ● Eds and benefits: now is the time ● Holiday Tours offers Mauritius agent special ● Breaking news: domestic flights delayed at OR Tambo ● Travel agents' bugbears with tour operators ● Monday smile: selling Australia ● Travel industry honoured at Top Brands Awards ● All systems go for La Mercy? ● Chikungunya fever in Thailand, Malaysia and India ● Get your digital copy of TNW ● Airlines remain in the red, despite increased demand
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State of Industry Survey 2009
Good communication can seal the deal! Melody Brandon
A
t a time of stiff price competition and reduced travel spending, effective communication with suppliers can set you apart. In TNW’s State of the Industry Survey 2009, 61% of agents said they sought advice from a tour operator before quoting a client, 69% regularly sold tour operator packages, and 30% said they sometimes created their own itinerary. But agents who rely heavily on tour operators say a speedy response is essential but not always forthcoming. Mia’s Travel travel manager, Ayesha Mia, says operators take forever to come back with quotes and that clients see it as poor service. “If they have contracted corporate rates, why can’t they give us the quote as soon as we call?” Harvey World Travel consultant, Jolene Stapelberg, says: “Give great service, otherwise we can take an alternative option with an operator that would.” Stacey Scott from Link Travel added: “Some operators quote the wrong thing. This wastes
time and is very frustrating.” Tour operators should not quote unless passenger details are available, says Graham de Wit from XL Astra Travel. “This will stop multiple agencies requesting quotes from the same tour operator, for the same passenger.” An operator who gets it right, says Anne Wille, Astra Travel Bloemfontein senior consultant, is Thompsons. “Thompsons is trying to find out whether clients are happy with quotes or whether they are looking at alternatives and whether there is anything else they can do for the clients to try and get the booking in.” “In a lot of cases agents are not asking their clients enough questions, for example ascertaining their needs, expectations, likes, dislikes, interests, purpose of travel, length of stay and budget. This type of information is vital in ensuring we meet their clients’ expectations,” said Holiday Tours md, Otto de Vries. Theresa Szejwallo, md of The Travel Corporation, agrees: “It’s important to know if your passenger is a first-time traveller or not, whether they
are a seasoned traveller, or if travelling for a special occasion, etc.” The more information tour operators receive, the more accurate they can be with the suggestions, says John Ridler, media and pr manager for Thompsons Holidays. “If we meet every aspect of the clients’ expectations, we will ensure that they have a wonderful holiday and all parties would receive fewer complaints.” Otto says: “Unfortunately for many, preferred agreements and overrides drive the sales decisions. The client’s best interest is not the first criterion. Today the travel agent earns their money through service fees. In effect this means they should be working for their clients who pay them, not the suppliers.” John says it is natural for travel agents’ first call to be their favourite tour operators where they receive competitive rates and prompt service but says he hopes most agents would not sell an unsuitable or overpriced holiday to a client just to earn a bonus. ■
“Now go to sleep, Kevin – or once again I’ll have to knock three times and summon the Floating Head of Death.”
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
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NEWS
Calling all Africa experts! Hilka Birns
I
F you’re a senior consultant with knowledge of and experience in selling African destinations and thinking of going independent, then the recently launched African Travel Experts may be just the ticket. ATE is the brainchild of e-marketing guru, Paul Hobden, who for many years has been doing e-marketing workshops teaching agents how to best market themselves online. With ATE, agents enter into an agreement with the company, which provides them with all this e-commerce support, leaving the agents to focus on their core capability i.e. selling tailor-made packages to high-income tourists from abroad, particularly from the UK. “We give you a businessin-a-box and help you built your online brand,” Paul explains. “We provide you with all the back-end systems, all contracting, insurance, hedging and a list of suppliers. We do all the marketing for you and provide you with the online ability to do online payments. To help
ATE’s founder, Paul Hobden you build your own brand we provide you with tools such as blogs, TripAdvisor, online social networking on FaceBook and Twitter and email campaigns. We send you consumer enquiries from campaigns that we’re running on our website (www.africantravelexperts. com). We give you the leads. You build the relationships and keep them going.” Paul says ATE is looking for agents who are experts in selling Africa and who want to be independent and take control of their own brand and success. Agents earn two types of commissions: From 35% to
50% for repeat business and referrals; and from 10% upwards for leads sent to them. Agents remain financially independent. They enter into an agreement with ATE to sell ATE’s products. At this stage there is no cost to join. The company, launched in April this year, is about to sign up its second and third agent, all currently based in Cape Town, but is looking to expand countrywide. Paul says ATE is owned by a number of private investors. Products include top-end safaris, lodges, hotels, tour operators, transfers, car hire and flights. ATE subcontracts to a number of Iata agents for the ticketing of flights. Destinations include South Africa, Botswana, Zambia, Tanzania and Namibia, with Kenya, Mozambique and Zimbabwe in the pipeline. “As African Travel Experts, agents can add true value because Africa is relatively unknown overseas. You have the credibility because the tourists are buying from people who are on the spot. Having lived in the UK for many years, we have the experience of how to attract and market to these people,” he says. ■
Peermont, Flight Centre sign domestic travel deal Kate Els SOUTH African Tourism has joined hands with Peermont Hotels and Flight Centre in a bid to make travel easier for the average South African. According to Phumi Dhlomo, South African Tourism regional director for Africa and domestic, since the launch of the Sho’t Left website in April there has been an influx to the site. The Sho’t Left Promotions and Deals page had become especially popular enjoying 4 700 page views a month with users specifically searching for travel packages. Of the 16 508 page views of the site, 32% account for new visits with the average user spending five minutes on each page. “The young and upcoming market (that the Sho’t Left campaign targets) seeks creative ways to secure excellent value for money. To meet this quest, Sho’t Left has partnered with the Peermont Hotel group, Flight Centre and Computicket
Travel,” said Phumi. These joint venture partners join others that SA Tourism already works with to promote domestic tourism including Thompsons Tours, Southern Sun and kulula.com. According to Phumi, publicprivate partnerships have shown themselves to be excellent promotions tools. “South African Tourism works to raise awareness about how wonderful our destination is. Our private sector partners offer the market deals that are very difficult to turn down. It is proving to be an excellent way of growing the market, and growing the number of people who travel domestically, too. “Tourism Month is an excellent opportunity to travel South Africa, to experience the delights of the destination and to take advantage of the numerous special offers available to the public to celebrate tourism and the contribution it makes to the economy.” ■
to the point
☞
● Protea Hotel OR Tambo has opened in Kempton Park, 10 minutes’ drive from the airport. The four-star, 213-room property has two conference rooms, accommodating up to 120 people and executive boardrooms and small meeting rooms catering for 12-20 delegates. The restaurant serves breakfast, lunch and dinner, there is a swimming pool, bar lounge, deli and fitness centre. A unique feature of the hotel is its industrial aviation theme, with pieces from airport hangars and old aircraft decorating the walls. “We like to put thought into all of our new developments and understand that business people spend five times longer in their hotel rooms than leisure travellers,” said Danny Bryer, group marketing and revenue director.
PAS
Service Level Measurement Dynamics cc t/a
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Our Package of Meet and Assist (MAAS) Services Include the following: *Valet parking *VIP Facilitation (Protocol services) *Use of Private Executive Lounge *Dedicated ground hostess/host *Free porter services *Baggage security assurance after check-in *Preferred seat assignment *Enhanced and personalised customer care *Group meet and assist *Domestic Flight telephone/e-mai check-in facilitation. *Travel Agent, Tour Operator Airport Representation.
Be astonished... The only daily non-stop flights to Cairo with easy connection to many Middle Eastern and European cities. For more information visit: www.egyptair.com or contact our Johannesburg Office on (011) 327-0258/9 or our Cape Town Office (021) 421-7503/13
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Bookings: Tel: 011 976 3397 - Cell: 082 419 6598 E-mail: dccs@telkomsa.net OR Tambo International Airport
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63438B Travel News
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NEWS
Vodacom targets tourism for IT solution launch Natalia Thomson
T
AKE your business online and improve your bottom line, that’s the message from Vodacom Business, which has just launched its service portfolio for the travel and tourism sector. Vodacom Business’s X-press product for SMMEs provides an end-to-end IT and telecommunications solution for companies, including B&Bs, hotels and other tourism suppliers. “We are geared up to be a key service provider to the tourism sector and have the right infrastructure in place to help promote this industry,” says Ermano Quartero, managing executive: Vodacom Business Products and Marketing. Ermano says Vodacom Business has adapted its
X-press for SMMEs solution to provide everything a tourism business needs to connect and operate its business, including solutions like fixed, wireless or mobile connectivity through ADSL, WiMax or 3G, as well as voice calling plans and email solutions. Also on offer are website-
“We are geared up to be a key service provider to the tourism sector." hosting facilities, virtual private networks and WiFi hotspot facilities. “Our broadband Internet access products, hosting solutions and WiFi hotspots are well suited to the needs of hotels and B&Bs. We have rolled out a generic product but customised it to the travel sector. We are already servicing a large
hotel reservations hub and working closely with SA Tourism. We’re also launching online portal infrastructure to allow the tourism industry to take their product to market.” This new online tourism portal will be launched later this year and will offer a real-time booking facility for online and retail customers. Ermano says the tool will provide a service for anyone wanting to facilitate travel bookings without having the outlay of IT or other costs. “We have had discussions with a number of leading tourism suppliers, but our role is to be a true aggregator across wholesalers, providing the integration, and booking enablement and, in certain cases, the fulfilment arrangement will be between the site/service owner and the fulfilment partner.” ■
AirHeads EY’s new first class suite enters service
ETIHAD has introduced its new first class suite on its latest A340-600, which now operates between Abu Dhabi and London Heathrow. It offers customers an extra-large leather seat, extending to a fully flat 204cm bed. The suites are in a 1-2-1 configuration, giving all passengers aisle access and each suite is accessed by its own 145cm-high sliding screen door. The first class cabin also features a changing room with full-length mirror, washbasin and leather fold-down seat. Other features include a touch-screen control to activate the built-in massage and in-seat power sockets for PCs, USB ports, Ethernet port and audio jack. Customers can also connect their own media player to the IFE system. The high-quality in-flight system has more than 600 hours of entertainment available on-demand on the 58cm-wide LCD screen. In-flight dining is also taken to a new level with meals served on an extra large wood-finished table.
BA goes wider in Club Europe
BRITISH Airways has reintroduced wider seats in Club Europe class (short-haul business class) effective September 2. This was done without compromising the ‘no middle seat’ rule introduced in February. Club Europe passengers will now benefit from wider seats while enjoying more privacy, and will be guaranteed a window or aisle seat. In addition, passengers will continue to benefit from a dedicated Club check-in area, hand and checked baggage allowance, access to the airline’s lounges, complimentary dining and drinks and fast-track immigration through T5. The seat changes will apply to all British Airways and CitiFlyer services, excluding the B767 aircraft that currently operate with a 2:2:2 configuration in Club Europe.
Johannesburg to Lagos, daily • 6 ’2” fully flat bed in Premier Class • 3 4” seat pitch and 60kg baggage allowance in Economy Class • B ook on Galileo or Amadeus (W3) • F rom just R 3,615 inclusive ex JNB to LOS and common rated to ABV, PHC and PHG For more information call us today on 011 289 8070 TNW3588SD
6 n Wednesday September 9 2009
QUICK READ FOR DECISION-MAKERS
TNWSEP09
We all leave a mark on the world. At Avis we care about our impact on the environment. This is why we’ve offset our measured internal energy and fuel carbon footprint in line with international carbon reduction protocol and have attained CarbonNeutral® accreditation! This is OUR commitment to the environment, to the air we breathe, to the planet and everyone on it. So join Avis in combating global warming and make a difference to our future. Discover more about our CarbonNeutral® journey at www.avis.co.za.
www.avis.co.za or call 0861 021 111 Avis rents VW and other fine cars
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East Africa
East Africa has opened up in recent years, with destinations that were previously off the tourist map getting into the game. This, coupled with destinations that have been top of mind for decades, has made it an increasingly popular region for South African travellers. Sue Lewitton finds out more…
New look for Nairobi hotel
South Africans
GIRAFFE Manor in Nairobi, Kenya, has just completed a major upgrade, including new décor and some structural enhancements to ensure that all rooms have en-suite facilities. Changes included restored furniture and silk curtains in the double Master Bedroom and the Twin Giraffe room
now has two single beds with overhead canopies and a new shower in the adjoining bathroom. Other rooms have also received new linen, curtains and bathroom changes. The Karen Blixen Suite now serves as a family room, accessed from the garden. The mezzanine deck
has twin beds and the main ground-floor bedroom has a double bed. The shower and bath are accessible for wheelchair users. In addition, a new formal garden has been added, offering an area for outdoor meals. Menus have also been redesigned.
go ape for East Africa
A
S the habitat of the endangered mountain gorilla continues to dwindle, many travellers are flocking to Rwanda and Uganda to catch a glimpse of these gentle giants in their natural surroundings. South Africans are no exception, as increased access and a wide variety of mid-range and upmarket accommodation has resulted in increased popularity for the region. Linda Willemse, head of marketing and sales at Wild Frontiers, says more and more South Africans are visiting the mountain gorillas in Uganda and Rwanda. “With frequent flights on several airlines to these destinations, they are fairly accessible from Johannesburg and you can even combine it with some of the other highlights and destinations in the region,” she says. Linda says gorilla trekking is a sought-after experience,
something that most people will do only once in lifetime. For this reason, it is essential that issues with permits are dealt with in advance. National parks in Uganda and Rwanda limit the amount of permits, and therefore the number of people per day, for gorilla trekking. Linda says operators and individuals generally purchase permits fairly well in advance of travelling. “We secure them for clients in advance, for both our set and private departures and the rest of the itinerary gets constructed around the available trekking dates.” Another hurdle is that the Uganda Wildlife Authority does not allow children under the age of 16 on gorilla treks. Linda says there are, however, plenty of other activities they can do while parents trek, like forest walks and visits to community projects.
Dinner at dusk at Giraffe Manor
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t i k oo
Wild Frontiers is offering a ‘Serengeti Safari’ package that includes eight days in adventure-grade mobile camping (adventure-grade camping safaris are designed for those who prefer to travel in small groups). Land-only rates start from R9 810pps plus an additional R3 700 for park fees. The special is valid until December 23.
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QUICK READ FOR DECISION-MAKERS
! t i ok
NEWS
Bo
African Encounters has launched its ‘Taste of Kenya’ package – a seven-night tour of Nairobi, Masai Mara National Reserve, Lake Nakuru and Amboseli National Park. The safari includes flights from Johannesburg to Nairobi, meet-and-greet services, some meals, all park fees and government taxes, and game drives. Rates start from R16 332pps and are valid until December 15.
We specialise in safaris to East Africa Wild Frontiers offer a broad range of products from fly-in luxury lodges, camps to adventure safaris. Activities include diving, climbing, bird watching safaris, fishing, walking, hiking, mountaineering, ballooning, rafting, canoeing and even spa-treatments.
● Wild Frontiers is offering a seven-day, land-only Uganda gorilla-trekking package. Rates start from R19 400pps. The permit is an additional US$500 (R3 886). The special is valid until December 23. ● Drifters offers a 12-day overland tour of Uganda, including 10 nights camping and two nights in a cabin. It includes gorilla and chimpanzee trekking, as well as visits to the treeclimbing lions and hippo herds. Rates start from €1 695pps (R18 833).
Sanctuary Retreats
completes Swala Camp upgrade SANCTUARY Retreats has relaunched Sanctuary Swala Camp in Tarangire National Park, Tanzania, following a R12m rebuild. The camp now offers 12 canvas pavilions, designed on an open-plan basis with a large living area, king-size bed, and en-suite bathroom with indoor and
outdoor showers. Floor-toceiling canvas windows lead on to private lounge decks that overlook the main watering hole. An infinity swimming pool has been added as well as new dining and lounge areas. The camp will soon introduce walking safaris. In celebration of the opening
of the camp, Sanctuary Retreats is holding its 2009 rates for 2010. Game package rates start from R3 500pps per night all inclusive. The camp is also offering a launch special – book two nights at Swala Camp and get the third night free, valid for travel until November 30.
Tel: 011 702 2035 Fax: 011 468 1655 reservations@wildfrontiers.com www.wildfrontiers.com
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!
t i k oo
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TANZANIA UGANDA KENYA
The Serena Beach Hotel and Spa in Mombasa has a special package on offer from R8 440pps. The package includes three nights’ accommodation on a dinner, bed and breakfast basis and return flights from Johannesburg to Mombasa on Kenya Airways.
Remember we are ground handlers in East Africa, but can offer safaris ALMOST ANYWHERE IN AFRICA. All of our tours are flexible and we can design safaris for individuals or groups, including special interest safaris, plus incentives and conferences.
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The Serengeti at sunset Photo: Stock Xchange TNW3398SD
Kenya Airways recently increased its Nairobi/Mombasa schedule from 27 to 58 flights per week. The airline also recently launched weekly flights to Gaborone, Botswana, on September 3 and will introduce flights to Ndola, Zambia, on September 17.
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The perfect Kenyan safari perfected by Serena. Plus Free Baggage Allowance
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QUICK READ FOR busiest people
Reservations: email reservations@serenahotels.co.za, cro@serena.co.ke or call: + 27110212607-10
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NEWS
Club Med launches How to monitor your loyalty programme client’s creditworthiness...
Natasha Tippel
C
LUB Med is launching a worldwide loyalty programme that offers members various benefits, including discounts and activities for silver cardholders and private transfers, upgrades, and late check-out times for gold cardholders. Benefits include: ● Turquoise Great Members – for first time Club Med clients membership includes regular contact to keep travellers informed about product and offers.
● Silver Great Members – clients who spend R100 000 or who have spent a total of 80 nights in Club Med hotels over the past three years enjoy special benefits, such as rate reductions in resort boutiques. ● Gold Great Members – clients who spend R400 000 or who have spent a total of 180 nights in Club Med hotels over the past three years enjoy silver member benefits as well as free room upgrades, individual transfers to resorts and late check-out times. ■
to the point
☞
● Urban Hip Hotels has announced the termination of its STO marketing contract with Legend Lodges, with immediate effect. The group has confirmed that all reservations made by Legend Lodges will be honoured at the published rates supplied. Should any tour operator wish to confirm this arrangement they are requested to contact the head of Urban Hip Hotels central reservations, Kathy Rodriques, by emailing reservations@urbanhiphotels.com
Linda Dempster gives TNW readers her tips on how to keep on top of your creditors … THERE’S no point in taking unnecessary risks in the travel industry, yet we do in abundance. Take for example a corporate client who wants 30 days to pay his account. The first thing we should do is get him to fill out a credit application. This does not need to be a complicated form. All that is needed are the basics like: where does he have an account at the moment (with contact details) so you can confirm whether or not he pays on time. Once you have checked that he is a good payer you can open an account on your system, but at this time it is important that you set a credit limit. This should be for part of the
credit application where he needs to give you an indication of just how much he plans to spend monthly. Once he reaches this limit and if he has not paid his account, then the account should be suspended.
30-day accounts
Another thing to remember is that actually there is no such thing as a 30-day account. Rather, it’s more like 60 days. For example, I buy an airline ticket on July 1. The agency that sold the ticket to me would send a statement by the end of July, and from then I have 30 days to pay. So should we say if I pay before August 31 I am a good client? This works for every other business so
why does it not work for travel? Here is the thing: If the travel agency pays BSP twice a month, they would have to pay for that ticket at the end of July. Or if the travel agency pays BSP once a month they would have to pay on August 15. Can you see what the problem is? The travel agency is actually paying for the ticket before they have collected the money from their corporate. And this is how agencies get into cash flow difficulties. Linda’s Tip: Don’t give 30-day accounts. Rather have your client apply for a credit card and if the card company turns him down, you’ll know that it’s not worth taking that credit risk. ■
Air Botswana
Route Network All Direct
Fly Air Botswana today and experience a world of endless opportunities in any of the destinations above. Central Reservations - Tel: (+267) 395 1921/390 5500. Fax: (+267) 395 3928. Johannesburg Reservations - Tel: (+27) 11 390 3070/1/2/3
www.airbotswana.co.bw 10 n Wednesday September 9 2009
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QUICK READ FOR DECISION-MAKERS
COMMUNITYNEWS
jobs
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
CSIR lends a helping hand
■ Mark Abbott has been appointed group FBO director for the ExecuJet Aviation Group with immediate effect. He will be based at ExecuJet’s new Cape Town facility. Mark commenced his aviation industry career in 1998 when he joined UK-based Harrods Aviation Limited. He consulted for ExecuJet in Europe prior to returning to South Africa as regional manager for the Western Cape.
The CSIR International Convention Centre (ICC) has donated chair covers, notepads, pens, 1 000 sqm of carpets, shirts, jackets, bags and more than 200 tablecloths to the Mohau Children’s Home in Atteridgeville. It was through its association with the Tshwane Tourism Association that the CSIR ICC heard about Mohau Children’s Home’s work among disadvantaged communities. “The children have been very cold lately as a result of cable theft, and the carpets could not have come at a better time,” says centre manager, Ester Jaca. “It is always infinitely rewarding to assist care facilities that do such exceptional work as Mohau,” says Bronwen Cadle, CSIR ICC marketing and sales manager. “We would like to challenge all Tshwane hospitality establishments to take part in initiatives such as Mohau.” Pictured here are Refilwe Nchebisang, CSIR ICC public relations intern (left) and Ester Jaca
Air France KLM reinforced its support of the travel trade in August by hosting the consultants’ training – ‘Servicing your Market’, in co-operation with the KLM Business Campus. Travel agents with an Advanced Partnership Agreement (APA) were invited to attend the two-day training. Max Smits, AF KLM regional manager Southern Africa and Angola, opened the first training session in Johannesburg. A total of 60 agents were trained in Johannesburg and Cape Town. The interactive training sessions involved role plays on how to deal with customers in difficult situations, recognising potential business through leading questions and how to close a sales deal. Pictured here (from left) are: José Betzold KLM Business Campus trainer and Kyle Lambert – Wings Corporate Travel
D
CV to sunetteb@dumatravel.co.za.
MANAGER Ideally suited to In-bound expert with exceptional Management skills. Must be hands-on with ability to drive and motivate team. Groups & Incentives know-how an advantage. MANAGER – OPERATIONS Ability to take charge of busy office and professional group of consultants a must. Great company, great salary. ACCOUNT MANAGER Divine opening with highly respected Operator. Your In-bound Groups & Incentives skills highly rewarded. IN-BOUND CONSULTANT Variety is the key in this great F.I.T position. Impress with creative itinerary design and excellent client liaison abilities! INTERMEDIATE CONSULTANT Enjoy great mix of corporate/leisure bookings in fun, happy environment. Call NadiNe (011) 803 0056 or e-mail equitycon@mweb.co.za for these and many others! TNW1997
Hotel Staff!! If you have a hotel background Tracey has a number of opportunities to discuss with you! Positions include: Receptionists, Duty Managers, Reservations, F&B, Housekeeping and Front Office. Give Tracey a call!
Personnel with the personal touch
Chefs! Chefs! Chefs! There is a big demand for quality chefs! For details contact Tracey
FINANCIAL MANAGER/ISANDO
Highly negotiable pacakage offered by Market Leader SAlES ExECUTIVE/EAST RAND for your B.Comm/equivalent and ability to lead Affirmative opportunity for person department of 45 people!
with corporate sales experience!!
Sales Executive - Gauteng A 'hunter' is required. Call on corporate companies representing international Foreign Exchange company. Emphasis is on obtaining new business. R12000/R15000 plus commission and allowances. Kati
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leading Wholesaler!
GROUND HANDlING ExPERT/ GAUTENG SENIOR CONSULTANT/BOKSBURG French/Portuguese speaking Join well established, friendly company and work Affirmative closer togentleman home! for exciting opportunity!!
Inbound Manager - North Manage the Africa Department for well established travel company focusing on both sales and operations. Will involve travelling into Africa. Must have held a supervisory/ managerial position in the travel industry. Galileo and Inbound travel experience is essential. R18000/R20000. Kati
Please Take Note of Our New Telephone No.: 011 704 4909
lee botti & associates JOHANNESbURG
CAPE TOWN
INdEPENdENT CONSULTANT – NORTH
FIT’S GROUPS & INCENTIVES - NORTH
The opportunity you have been waiting for! Consult to your own client base but enjoy the sound infrastructure of this well established, successful agent! Work from home or their offices – your choice! Commission only structure.
Junior Consultant – E/Rand An excellent opportunity has come up for a junior to assist with mainly dive packages and Indian Ocean Island bookings as well as some corporate travel accounts. Amadeus essential. Tracey
SENIOR CONSUlTANT/PRETORIA BRAND MANAGER/ Cut downNORTHERN on travelling time and costs SUBURBS and work home!! Person strong incloser Marketingto invited to join
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
General Manager post to oversee three happening divisions! Report directly to CEO on strategic planning, forecasting, developing & directing staff and more. Cost conscious hunter that always hits the target! Snatch this opportunity now. Salary R450K
TNW3599SD
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THIS WEEK’S TOP JObS CAPE TOWN ISLANd PARAdISO – SOUTH
Super sales passion driven consultant with 1st hand experience of East Africa/Indian Ocean Islands to join niche market inbound operator specializing in luxury honeymooners and tailor-made retreats. Flexi time available to work to UK clocks. Senior top offer for top candidate.
JOHANNESbURG
CAPE TOWN
dURbAN
SENIOR TRAVEL CONSULTANT – EAST
CREAM OF THE CROP – Cbd
INTERMEdIATE EXPERT!
Work closer to home! This vibrant agency is seeking young dynamic individual with min 4 years exp to work with mainly corporate clients doing Int and Dom. Working knowledge on Amadeus is essential. Great growth opp. R18 000 Tel: Joanne (011) 452 0204
Tel: Tracey (011) 803 6606 rivonia@nowjobs.co.za
QUICK READ FOR busiest people
Join this record harvest into 2010 and beyond! Top Senior post exists for forward thinking Executive Manager at reputable destination marketing company. Minimum 7 years managerial experience coupled with eBusiness and ICT knowledge. Report into CEO. Lucrative package
Tel: Wayne (021) 418 1084 capetown@nowjobs.co.za
Tel: Jill (031) 201 8330 durban@nowjobs.co.za
Senior Airline Sales Executive – Cape Town Basic of R15000 plus allowances and excellent benefits including guaranteed 13th cheque. Will be representing a highly regarded international carrier with excellent reputation. Kati
Spanish Inbound Cons – N/Suburbs Name your salary!! Your expertise is sought after! Deal with the Spanish market handling inbound incentive tours. Top international operator requires previous inbound incentives experience and the ability to travel with the groups and do site inspections. An excellent opportunity, working within superb infrastructure. Kati
NATIONAL SALES MANAGER/ SENIOR INBOUND INCENTIVES NORTHERN SUBURBS CONSUlTANT/SANDTON Hands on position with total responsibility for Upmarket company rewards Key Account Managers and Businessyour indepth inbound incentives Development Managers! expertise!!
Our Tygervalley office in Cape Town is looking for: ● Senior Consultants ● Finance Supervisor ● Invoicing clerks
Airline Sales Executive – Jhb Highly regarded international carrier with excellent reputation! Earn a basic salary in the region of R11800 plus allowances, full medical aid and guaranteed bonus. Will be reporting to a superb manager! Kati
Inbound Incentives Cons – N/Suburbs Join top international operator handling inbound incentives to South and Southern Africa. Job description will include escorting the groups and inspection trips. Candidates must have dealt specifically with incentive travel for a minimum of 2 years. Foreign languages will be an added advantage. Be part of a highly professional operation. R15000/R19000. Kati
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uma Travel is a fast growing travel management company. We are looking for people who are experienced, committed, enthusiastic and willing to go the extra mile. If you are ready to work in an exciting and challenging environment, please forward your
Snr Data Analyst/Report Writer Compile various statistical travel management reports to client specification plus various other projects for large highly successful travel group. Advanced knowledge in Crystal Reports, SQL and Excel are essential. Must also have experience in electronic data analysis and interpretation. A tertiary qualification in accounts and statistics and/or computer science is required. Salary to R300K depending on experience. Travel industry background not required. Tracey
Cargo Sales Executive – ORTIA Promote the cargo division of international carrier. Sell the cargo capacity, maximize revenue, meet targets and ensure customer satisfaction, loyalty and retention through providing high standards of customer service. Candidates must have an airfreight or airline background. Sales experience is essential. R10000/R12000 plus allowances. Kati
eQUiTY CONNeCTiONS cc
AF KLM supports trade
Sales Manager – Airline Manage a small team of Sales Executives in Gauteng for well known international carrier. Will plan, implement and direct the sales strategy with the objective of achieving revenue targets. Build customer relations with key travel agents and analyze market intelligence. Will interact with the marketing team. Will also co-ordinate the Cape Town and Durban sales staff. Must have excellent knowledge of the travel industry as well as a history of managing a sales team. R20000/ R28000. Tracey
Ideal for the outgoing, confident, people’s person! Service the leisure market for this busy retail agency based in busy shopping mall. Make that crucial first impression, and assist with regional & international bookings, utilising Galileo. Superb team who work well together!! Salary negotiable on exp!
See our website for a further selection of exciting vacancies! www.leebotti.co.za
Snr Wholesale Cons – N/suburbs R12000/R14000. Be part of a well established, solid wholesale company with excellent reputation. Must have a wholesale travel background and have Amadeus. Kati Marketing/PR - Sandton R12000/R15000. Join highly respected company and be involved with promotions, workshops and exhibitions. Candidates must have previous experience handling these functions within the travel industry and also have some experience in working with the media. Kati Junior Travel Consultant - Sandton Small established agency affiliated to a large travel group requires a junior with minimum 1 years experience. Drivers license and own car essential. Tracey Inbound Consulting - Sandton Play an important role within highly successful inbound travel company. Put together educationals for agents and media familiarisation trips. Tracey New Business Sales Executive Emphasis is on establishing new business and candidates must have a proven track record. Call on corporate companies. R12000/R14000 plus lucrative commission, petrol and cell allowance. Kati Cashbook Clerk – Sandton Pastel experience is essential. R8000/R9000. Join highly successful company! Tracey
Office Hrs (011) 884-9113 Website: www.specialized.co.za e-mail: kati@sgroup.co.za tracey@sgroup.co.za
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Appointment
SpecialiZed Travel perSonnel
Wednesday September 9 2009 n 11
TNW NEWS
Flights from Wonderboom?
1time flying high
Jeanette Phillips
Jeanette Phillips
I
NTERLINK will launch scheduled services from Pretoria’s Wonderboom Airport to Cape Town and Durban on October 30, says ceo, Murad Ismail. The airline plans to operate a full-service twice-daily operation on each route from Monday to Friday and one on Sundays, bringing to 11 the number of flights to each destination per week. The routes will be serviced by two 100-seater Bae 146-300s. “Flying from Wonderboom Airport has many benefits for passengers and the experience is summed up by convenience, convenience and more convenience. Situated just outside Pretoria, Wonderboom’s location means that travellers can easily access the airport, without the hassle of heavy traffic,” says Murad. Check-in counters for flights
will only close 15 minutes before departure, while boarding gates will close five minutes before take-off. “For regular travellers this is extremely convenient, as a 45-minute check-in limit will become a thing of the past.” Tickets for the flights are expected to go on sale no later than September 4 through various distribution channels including the airline’s website and GDS bookings. Payment can also be made through direct remit or using Hahn Air’s e-ticketing service in about two weeks. Fares advertised will be inclusive of all taxes. “Because we apply varying cancellation penalties to each class of booking as well as varying the ticket conditions, the agent or passenger can select the best fare class for their circumstances. In this way every passenger is guaranteed their seat. Overbookings become a thing
of the past,” adds Murad. Other services available through the airline will include a complimentary bus shuttle service between OR Tambo International; selected city hotels in Pretoria as well as Johannesburg, Sandton and Wonderboom; a free chauffeur pick-up and drop-off service for full J-class passengers and a VIP business-class lounge at Wonderboom. Three major car-rental companies also operate from the airport and taxi services are also available. Looking ahead, the airline plans to launch flights to Polokwane and Kruger Mpumalanga in Nelspruit two months after the Cape Town and Durban launch and to George four months thereafter. Further routes for 2010 will include Bloemfontein, Kimberley, Pietermaritzburg and Richards Bay. ■
WHILE domestic passenger numbers travelling through SA’s airports showed doubledigit declines, 1time reports that it has enjoyed an increase in passenger numbers of 12%. “The passenger growth was achieved despite the overall domestic travel market declining by an estimated 10% for the period, leading to further market share gains for the airline,” explained ceo, Glenn Orsmond. 1time Holdings has announced a R50,9m profit for the first six months of 2009, compared with the R6,3m loss for the same period in 2008. The group’s revenue
had increased by 35% from R455,4m last year to R613,9m despite the “generally difficult economic conditions and tough trading environment”, he said. 1time Airlines, said Glenn, had performed “particularly well, growing revenue by 20% to R508m and passengers by 12%”. Looking forward, 1time plans to introduce more aircraft in the second half of the year to satisfy growth in demand for its new Livingstone route and demand created by 1time Holidays. The group is also awaiting a decision from the Competition Commission in October, regarding its complaint against anti-competitive exclusion at Lanseria International Airport. ■
End of an era – OA’s JNB route axed From page 1
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Connections: EgyptAir
From Johannesburg: Flights depart at 21h45, arriving in Cairo at 05h45, with the connecting Athens flight departing at 10h30. From Athens: Flights depart at 14h30, arriving in Cairo at 15h30, with the connecting Johannesburg flight departing at 01h40 (+1).
Emirates Airline
From Johannesburg: Flights depart at 14h10 arriving in Dubai at 00h10, with connecting Athens flight departing at 10h05. From Athens: Flights depart at 23h00 arriving in Dubai at 04h25 with connecting Johannesburg flight at 10h15.
Etihad Airways
From Johannesburg: Flights depart at 13h35 arriving in Abu Dhabi at 23h55, with the connecting Athens flight departing at 09h25. From Athens: Flights depart at 14h30 arriving in Abu Dhabi at 20h00, with the connecting Johannesburg/Cape Town flight departing at 22h20.
Qatar Airways “We cannot all open Internet. Some of us are blocked.” Sonia Mueller, Rennies Travel
To sponsor this poll contact Kate on 011 214 7334
Turkish Airlines
From Johannesburg: Flights depart at 19h25 arriving in Istanbul at 06h15, with connecting flights to Athens departing at 08h05, 17h00 and 21h00. From Athens: Flights depart 19h25 arriving 20h45 in Istanbul, with connecting flight to Johannesburg departing at 23h20. ■
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or e-mail katen@nowmedia.co.za
From Johannesburg: Flights depart at 21h50 arriving in Doha at 07h15, with the connecting Athens flight departing at 13h45. From Athens: Flights depart at 19h30 arriving in Doha at 23h45, with the connecting Johannesburg flight departing at 07h10 (+1).
12 n Wednesday September 9 2009
QUICK READ FOR DECISION-MAKERS