Southern African Tourism Update December 2009 - January 2010 by Now Media

soutHern afriCan

December 2009 / January 2010 i issue 210 i www.tourismupdate.co.za

for organisers of tours

Mpumalanga Geotourism on the rise?

+ Vic Falls charms once again + Europeans look out for authentic culture + SA gets involved in food tourism

KwaZulu Natal Beach development increases international appeal

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December 2009/January 2010

2 IN THE NEWS

A look at the latest tourism, destination and eco news from Southern Africa 2 Europe’s culture vultures urge SA to keep it real 4 Air Mauritius to resume Oz flights 6 i Kapa launches day tours for 2010

8 K waZulu Natal

Beach development increases international appeal

12 Victoria Falls Riding the Milk Run

14 Food & Wine

South Africans up the ante when it comes to food tourism

17 Profile: Kapama

Take a look at Karula, the new offering at Kapama

18 Mp umalanga

Geotourism on the rise?

20 Moore on tourism Food for thought

Cover: SA Tourism

Publisher David Marsh Managing Editor Natalia Thomson nataliat@nowmedia.co.za Deputy Editor Kate Els Sub Editor Ann Braun Contributors Sue Lewitton, Natasha Tippel,

Melody Brandon, Jeanette Phillips Advertising Sales Claire Storey, Lara Denysschen advertising@tourismupdate.co.za Advertising Co-ordinator Natalie Walker Photographer Tijana Huysamen

Bohemian Rhapsody

ove over Yuppies and Dinkies! The time has come for a new breed of consumer, and we’re creative, successful, independent and … demanding. Not particularly attached to the brand ‘Bourgeois Bohemian’, which is what this breed of consumer has been dubbed, I had to nod warily as Tourism Intelligence International’s Dr Auliana Poon, addressing delegates at the recent HICA conference in Johannesburg, rattled off a recognisable list of characteristics specific to the ‘Bobos’. Highly tolerant, technologically competent, environmentally aware and desiring authenticity, the Bobos are your new breed of traveller. We, and yes I scarily count myself among them, have combined the artistic tendencies of the Hippie generation with the bourgeois tendencies of our forefathers, and everything we do – work, travel and home – has to be fulfilling. Motivated by the pursuit of spiritual participation, Bobos are looking for experiences when they travel. They want to visit a destination and be treated as a local. They’re looking for experiences that will change their lives. Bobos want to get involved. They want travel with takeaway value and want experiences with storytelling potential. More memorable than the hours spent on a beautiful beach are the four hours these Bobos would take to dislodge their car from a gruelling mud track in the middle of the wilderness. A destination like Southern Africa allows for this kind of storytelling. And the Bobos are ready and willing to pay for it. For them, money is a means to an end. They’ll spend fortunes on a day of rejuvenation at the local day spa and think nothing of buying an espresso machine for thousands of rands to drink exceptional coffee. Bobos are a key component of the experience economy. And travel companies are in an amazing position to orchestrate memorable experiences for them. The good news is that focusing on customer experience can be profitable without costing you more to deliver that great experience. The key is to tie emotion to the Bobos’ experience. Travel companies should see themselves as selling memorable “emotional content” rather than products or services. Those experiences have to be positive but, more than anything, they have to be unexpected. To win my Bobo heart, you have to give me not only the experience I desire, but you have to surprise me. Average is not memorable. Deliver more than expected, amaze me, and I’ll keep coming back for more.

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Sue Lewitton EuropEan travEllErs put much greater emphasis on cultural travel than their american and British counterparts, say European operators. The Dutch market is particularly interested in cultural tours. Japie van Deventer, Director of ShapShap Travel in The Netherlands, says Dutch people tend to be very curious and always want to learn and see more while on holiday. “Gone are the days when it was only about safari and nature, there has to be a level of culture included in all tours,” says Van Deventer. Across the board, there are three very clear themes voiced by European tour operators regarding cultural travel. The first being that their clients are interested in incorporating a mix of activities into their holiday package, with culture definitely being among them, but by no means the most important. Davide Bomben, Marketing Director for Italy’s Il Diamante, sums it up: “Culture can be an element, but not the key element.” Van Deventer says people generally don’t go to Southern Africa for a cultural experience. “They go there to see the wild animals and the spectacular nature – cultural experiences are just a nice extra bonus.” annelieke Zonne, Owner of Out in Africa, says her clients usually spend only a day or two on

an organised cultural tour. “We actively promote South Africa as the most varied destination in Africa, an excellent mix of nature, wildlife, culture, history, action, pampering and pure fun.” The second theme is that Europeans place a huge amount of importance on mixing with the locals while on holiday. Zonne says: “Whenever they experience real contact with South Africans this stands out afterwards as one of their most memorable experiences.” She says this may be during a township tour, but is more often than not in an informal, unorganised context. But the extent to which the travellers wish to interact with locals depends largely on the market segment they belong to. Van Deventer says younger travellers are usually more open to cultural experiences and tend to have a more hands-on approach. “Older people and families with children prefer a bit of a distance between themselves and something of a cultural nature and they would be more inclined to do excursions such as the Robben Island tour or watching a performance at their lodge or hotel or dining at a themed restaurant,” he adds. The final theme is that when it comes to the type of cultural experiences they’re after, tour operators are unanimous in their response – authentic is best. Van Deventer says: “No one likes a ‘traditional cultural village’ where it’s all just a big performance for tourists.

Cape Town Tourism T

Europe’s culture vultures urge SA to keep it real

Cultural overload... operators say tourists would prefer more authentic cultural experiences. “People want the real thing.” annelies Zonjee, Dutch Founder of Drumbeat Safaris, says tourists would prefer to watch a local dance group performing in their normal day-to-day wear rather than donning leather and skins for the occasion.

The Big Seven: sharks and whales join the team Natalia Thomson ADDING ThE WhAlE AND ShARk TO the Big Five to create the Big Seven will contribute to the appeal of South Africa’s tourism offering. So say tourism authorities following the announcement by Environmental Affairs Minister, Buyelwa sonjica, that SA would become the first country in the world to boast a Big Seven. Speaking to Parliament, Sonjica said: “We can offer tourists, among other things, a shark dive in Gansbaai. We will be marketing these animals – sharks and whales – to the whole world. It will have a significant impact on tourism.” The Eastern Cape, says Eddie marafane, the tourism authority’s Marketing Manager, has

already been marketing the destination as one of the few in the world to boast the Big Seven. “We are glad the Minister has made this announcement as this will enhance our marketing drives, however this is not the only differentiator of the Eastern Cape.” kZN, adds lihle Dlamini, Tourism kwaZuluk k Natal Manager PR and Communications, is renowned for its shark diving experience “particularly the Tiger, Zambezi and occasional Great White shark. k kwaZulu Natal offers the ‘Big Seven’ experience – whales, Great White sharks, lion, elephant, buffalo, rhino and leopard.” Cape Town Routes Unlimited, says CEO calvyn Gilfellan, believes an “exciting concept” such as the Big Seven should be supported by a

“comprehensive national marketing strategy and industry buy-in” to achieve the same success as the Big Five. “As the private sector plays a vital role in packaging tours, industry feedback should be invited and incorporated in the roll-out.” hermanus in the Cape Overberg is already known as the world’s best spot for land-based whale watching, while the new Cape Whale Coast Route is also being developed as part of a deal signed between Cape Town Routes Unlimited and the Cape Overberg District Municipality in September this year, added Gilfellan. Further south, Gansbaai is increasingly gaining popularity for its organised shark cage diving tours.

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December 2009/January 2010

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CPT’s new departures terminal open Hilka Birns thE nEw DEparturEs tErminal at cape town t international airport has officially opened. Airport Manager, Deon cloete, says a “dry-run” on October 22 had “no showstoppers”. It involved testing all equipment and operational processes. Some 160 “pretend” passengers were subjected to 18 different scenarios, testing things like way finding, equipment, reliability of systems and trolley movement. All airlines operating from Cape Town and other stakeholders had an opportunity to test their systems and processes. The functionality of a new fully automated baggage system has been tested for several months. The old departures terminal has been closed and will eventually become the new airside section of the domestic arrivals terminal by March 2010. The arrivals will remain the same for domestic and international passengers but will be linked to the new central terminal building in March next year.

A second 36m parkade with 4 000 bays will open in phases from December. Additional aircraft parking stands and all air bridges will be fully operational in January. A new consolidated carrental facility will open in February. A new public transport plaza in front of the new terminal and road upgrade will be finished by March.

tips you should give travellers:

● If you’re meeting a passenger, proceed to the current international or domestic arrival terminals. ● The route for domestic car hire has changed. When returning to drop off your vehicle, make use of the current drop-off road called Central Boulevard to return your car. look for the directional signage. This is a temporary inconvenience until March 2010. ● Passengers with special needs should contact their airlines in advance as well as the landside airport hotline on +2721 935 3737. ● Domestic passengers should arrive at least one hour 30 minutes and international pax two hours 30 minutes before departure.

29 Beaches awarded Blue Flag status Kate Els NATIONAl MARINE MONTh IN OCTOBER 2009 came to an end on a high note when the new season of Blue Flag South Africa was launched with the announcement that

29 beaches had been certified prior to the 2010 Soccer World Cup. Speaking at the launch, Minister of Tourism, marthinus van schalkwyk, said the increase of Blue Flag beaches from 19 last year to 29 this year was extremely good for tourism in South Africa.

Boundary fence dropped in namibia

The boundary fence between Wilderness Safaris Namibia and the NamibRand Nature Reserve has been dropped in a bid to better manage environmental concerns. The land is currently being rehabilitated.

nelson mandela Bay revamps 2010 website

Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality (NMB) has announced the launch of its revamped 2010 website. The website features information about the 2010 FIFA World Cup and Nelson Mandela Bay. It has detailed information on all the attractions that the city has to offer in terms of entertainment and shopping, accommodation, beaches, game parks, outdoor adventure, arts and culture and more.

luangwa conservation and community levy now compulsory

The recently introduced luangwa Conservation and Community levy is now compulsory for 2010. As a result of the recession, fewer tourists are travelling to the South luangwa, and park fee income has dropped by about 30-35 per cent.

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Air Mauritius to resume Oz flights Jeanette Phillips Air MAuritius hAs Announced that it will resume its flights to Australia. “We are delighted to be flying again to Sydney from July 2010. Our pattern of operations from that date will include a direct flight to Perth and a direct flight to Melbourne/Sydney,” said Manoj rK ujooda, CEO Air Mauritius. steven Palombo, Manager Australia, said

he was pleased with all the new developments in the past months. “We now have a new General Sales Agent – Airline Marketing Australia, a new team and have a great product to sell.” Palombo said he was particularly pleased with the resumption of the Sydney operations, as the airline would have more opportunities to offer customers travelling to Mauritius and beyond to South Africa, Réunion, Rodrigues, Madagascar, Kenya and Europe.

SAA and Virgin America sign interline agreement Jeanette Phillips SOuth uth AfRiCA CAn AiRWA RWA S RWAy (SAA) And nd Virgin America have signed an interline agreement, offering seamless travel on the networks of each carrier, across the

united States and transatlantic routes. the agreement will allow connecting passengers to purchase interline tickets for travel between the united States and South Africa through travel agents or through SAA’s customer call centre. Both airlines will transfer baggage between connecting flights and to passengers’ final destinations. these flights will allow American passengers to book flights to any SAA destinations.

tAM direct to s t sA’s cities in 2010 Brazil’s tAM t Linhas Aéreas will be launching direct flights to three centres in South Africa during the 2010 World Cup. in conjunction with tour operators, Agaxtur, t top Service, Ambiental, Stella Barros and Marsans, as well as its own tour operator t tAM Viagens, the airline will be offering flights to Johannesburg, Cape town and durban from June 7 to July 14. t

Air Zimbabwe adds JnB service

Air Zimbabwe has announced that it will add a fifth frequency between Johannesburg and Bulawayo on thursdays. the airline currently operates the service on Mondays, Wednesdays, fridays and Sundays. flights depart Bulawayo at 11h00, arriving in Johannesburg at 13h20. the return service departs Johannesburg at 14h25, arriving in Bulawayo at 16h35.

Air namibia launches Lusaka flights

Air namibia now operates five flights a week from Windhoek to Lusaka, Zambia, via Johannesburg. the sector between Johannesburg and Lusaka is done in codeshare with Zambezi Airlines. “We are also pleased to announce at the same time that we will be improving our service offering by providing an early-morning departure at 08h10 from Windhoek to Johannesburg and an evening departure at 18h30 from Johannesburg to Windhoek,” said Air namibia Business development Manager, Xavier Masule.

Point Road, Mossel Bay

Superbly positioned on the rocks at Mossel Bay’s famous St. Blaize lighthouse, 52 Sea facing, en-suite rooms with private balconies overlooking the Indian Ocean from where you can watch the Humpback and Southern Right whales or dolphins passing. A tidal pool offers safe bathing. Spectacular surfing spot. A 15km trail along the coast starts at the hotel. The Lighthouse Restaurant and bar cater for all tastes and appetites.

Tel: (044) 691-3512 Fax: (044) 691-3513 Email: thepoint@pointhotel.co.za www.pointhotel.co.za

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Rovos Rail

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Talk Talk Talk Talk

OH CONDUCTOR… Guests can enjoy meals while viewing the KwaZulu Natal scenery.

Rovos improves Durban route

Rovos Rail has improved on its routing between Pretoria and Durban which, it says, has made all the difference for its passengers. David Patrick, Marketing Manager, says the new direct routing between the two cities has many advantages, one of which is that passengers do not need to go through passport control in Swaziland. “The practical improvements, among others, of a smoother track, no passport requirements, and excursions in malaria-free areas, have added enjoyment to the overall experience,” he says. “The inclusion of a Big 5 game drive excursion in Nambiti Private Game reserve, a guided tour of the historic battlefields at Spioenkop and an excursion with high tea to the world-renowned Ardmore Ceramics Factory and Stables, are the new attractions.” The scheduled departure times and dates remain almost unchanged although Rovos has managed to increase the stationary overnight stops on both nights of the journey to approximately eight hours for added comfort and sleep time. “We are confident that this new routing is going to become a major draw card for some of our biggest international markets, specifically the United Kingdom, which has a direct and long-standing history with the KwaZulu Natal region,” says Patrick.

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Shindzela offers authentic safari camp

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Shindzela Bush Camp located in the Timbavati Nature Reserve is offering its guests the opportunity to get closer to nature with its tented safari camp “We wanted to bring back the idea of an old-fashioned safari camp, where the focus is on excellent guiding and genuine hospitality and less about luxury accommodation. The camp offers an affordable safari experience in the well known Timbavati Game Reserve and is ideal for guests who want to be close to nature. Guests really feel at home in this camp,” says Dave Falkner, Co-owner of Shindzela. Shindzela offers guests an authentic wildlife safari, in an unfenced wilderness environment. Safari activities are conducted within a private concession area in the Timbavati Nature Reserve, part of the Greater Kruger National Park. The camp has no power and instead operates on solar power, gas and candles. It accommodates just 12 guests and offers walking safaris and both day and night game drives in open four-wheeldrive vehicles.

Strategic Solutions

December 2009/January 2010

productnews For Free daily news updates: www.tourismupdate.co.za

TAJ HOTELS

Luxury with an historic twist

OLD WITH NEW… Two of Cape Town’s historic buildings have been transformed to house the new Taj Cape Town.

Cape Town’s inner CiTy Ty is T experiencing a new level of luxury with the recent opening of the Taj Cape Town. The €45m hotel is located in the cultural and historically rich st George’s Mall precinct. “When the Taj opens it will take the area to its next level,” says Sales & Marketing Manager, Theo Cromhout, “while providing guests with an authentic Cape Town experience because of its location in close proximity to the vibrant inner-city with its diversity of culture, art, entertainment, restaurants and rich heritage.” The 176-room Taj Cape Town is housed in two of the city’s oldest buildings, as well as a 17-storey new tower block. For the past two years, construction workers have been converting the original South African Reserve Bank (built in 1929) and the old BOE building, formerly the Temple Chambers (built in 1890). Eleven room types include a Presidential Suite, 10 Heritage Suites and the Taj Club floor with a private lounge and dedicated butlers. Within the restored buildings there will be 30 Heritage luxury rooms, combining old-world interiors with modern conveniences. The new tower will house 122 modern rooms. Taj Cape Town will be the first Taj hotel in South Africa, complementing the group’s portfolio of 80 hotels.

De Hoop - Jewel of the Cape • Luxury self-catering accommodation • Weddings • Conferences • Restaurant

iKapa’s tours for 2010 iKAPA TOuRS And iKAPA nd Travel has announced the launch of its day tours in Cape Town for guests who will be visiting the city during the 2010 Soccer World Cup. The tours will mainly be operated by iKapa, but other operators as well as SMMEs will also be contracted during that period, says Desmond windt, Owner of the transport operator. He says the tours will run between June 11 and July 7 with an option of extending them after the semi final. Tours on offer include: The Best of Cape Town – City tour and Kirstenbosch, Cape Peninsula, Cape Winelands, Bushman and West Coast, Cape Cultural and Cape Safari. Tours will depart from a central area within the city and from around the V&A Waterfront. Although rates are yet to be announced Windt says the tours will be sold in line with market prices. Windt says iKapa expects to move around 1 500 passengers per day during the tournament.

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Sabi Sabi offers new guest experience

Guests at Sabi Sabi can now gain more insight into authentic village life by taking part in a tour of neighbouring communities. Homes, schools, community centres and sports facilities are participating in the tour and proceeds from the fee paid by guests will go back to the community. Lodrick Manyathele, Sabi Sabi Liaison Officer, uses the transfer time from the lodge to the first stop at Mazinyane Pre-School to give some background on local architecture, religion, arts and crafts and food. Community members have the chance to showcase their crafts, such as beading, grass weaving and carving.

Gooderson Leisure expands into Gauteng

De Hoop introduces new guided activities The De Hoop Collection has announced the introduction of a range of new guided activities for visitors of all ages. These include guided bird walks, eco-system walks and a mountain bike trail. At low tide, weather permitting, guests will also be able to enjoy interpretative rock pool walks. “We hope that these guided activities will provide visitors both young and old with a richer ecotourism experience,” says Kate Naughton, Marketing Manager.

Gooderson Leisure has entered into an agreement to purchase the Fabz Estate Hotel and Conference Centre in Lonehill, Gauteng. The acquisition forms part of the expansion of Gooderson Leisure’s portfolio and product base beyond KwaZulu Natal. Gooderson Leisure is planning to upgrade all the existing hotel rooms and conference facilities as well as developing additional hotel rooms on the property.

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Ever-evolving A wave of development is under way across KZN, including new tourism zones, new accommodation and the upgrading of infrastructure. Sue Lewitton finds out more…

Durban waterfront project well under way

ORK is well under way to create a waterfront zone for Durban, providing a tourism attraction that stakeholders hope will rival the V&A Waterfront in Cape Town. The old Point area is being developed by eThekwini Municipality and the Durban Point Development Company (DPDC). It is hoped that along with uShaka Marine World, the waterfront will become one of the ‘must see’ destinations for Durban. So far over €170m has been invested in construction in the area, and once complete, this figure is expected to reach over €428m. Three developments are under construction

at The Point. These are the Heritage Hotel, a 70-room property that will be completed in time for the 2010 Fifa World Cup; 68 apartments adjacent to the hotel, which can be used as hotel accommodation but will also be available for purchase; and renovations and an upgrade of the old ‘Ark’ building into apartments and offices. All the projects are the work of individual investors, but the DPDC has also commenced construction on the next phase of the primary development up to the edge of the Indian Ocean. This will open up a further 250 000sqm for the development of retail space, hotels, apartments, offices and various mixed use sites. The final phase of the development will be a

small craft harbour. But is there enough demand for additional hotel infrastructure in the city? Gerhard Patzer, GM of the Hilton Durban believes the success of the new tourism infrastructure in Durban will be very much dependent on the success of the new La Mercy airport. “By that I mean that new markets should be tapped which will bring new tourists into Durban and KwaZulu Natal,” he says. “The category, in my opinion, should be geared towards local and international tourists who are happy with three- and fourstar hotels and I feel these hotels should be developed between Umhlanga Ridge and Ballito, preferably on the beach or directly at the new airport.”

Three Cities expands its portfolio

Three Cities is expanding its portfolio with the addition of two new KwaZulu Natal properties. The Ballito Ambassador on KZN’s North Coast in Ballito will offer 40 suites, each featuring contemporary décor. It is located in close proximity to Ballito’s beaches, as well as the new La Mercy airport and the main highways. The 50-room Square Boutique Hotel and Spa is also located on the North Coast, in Umhlanga. Both properties are set to open in April 2010.

The Loft set to open its doors

Chill Out in Africa www.andBeyond.com

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Sica’s Guest House in Durban, has purchased a new property in Tighard Avenue to be called The Loft. When it opens next year, it will offer nine bedrooms and a loft apartment. It is located in a building dating from 1860, which the owners are restoring and upgrading. www.tourismupdate.co.za

More of KZN’s beach development zones SeVeRAL RAL beACh AReAS NeAR duRbAN b bAN are also undergoing major developments. These include:

The umgababa beach node

eThekwini Municipality has begun work on the once-popular Umgababa beach node with plans to turn it into one of the region’s most popular leisure destinations. About €2m will be spent on the project. The development will happen in three stages. The first phase includes improving access to the beach by tarring the road, creating a parking lot, landscaping and the improvement of lighting. The second phase is a pool for adults and the final phase will be the construction of sports grounds and lifeguard infrastructure.

The umhlanga Promenade

Umhlanga’s promenade has been undergoing restoration after heavy wave action caused severe damage to infrastructure in the area. The promenade from Breakers Resort in the north to the Lighthouse in the south is now complete following two and a half years of work by the eThekwini Municipality. This included the building of reinforced walls and the planting up of the dunes with endemic plants. Paving has been redone and the old wooden balustrades replaced with concrete posts and fibreglass rails. Benches and new signage will also be introduced soon.

New boardwalk and rate structure at Karkloof KARKLOOF SPA PA WeLLNeSS ANd Wildlife retreat, 24km outside Pietermaritzburg, has completed work on a boardwalk to the base of the Karkloof Falls. The only access to the base of the 106m Karkloof Falls is on Karkloof Spa’s property. The wooden boardwalk extends for a kilometre along river in the Karkloof Valley. A deck lets guests feel the spray of the falls. In other news, Karkloof Spa has introduced a

new two-tier rate structure. The R2 500pppn (€214) half-board rate has fewer inclusions but guests can customise their holiday with add ons. The property says the new rate works well for couples where either partner may not be interested in spa treatments or alcoholic beverages included in the full-board rate. The fully inclusive rate of R3 990pppn (€342) is still available and guests have the flexibility of combining half- and full-board rates. ■

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Kate Els takes some time out in the Victoria Falls area and finds there’s a lot more to offer than a waterfall…

lthough the draw for travellers to the Vic Falls area is obviously its outstanding World Heritage Site and the ‘smoke that thunders’, there are other draw cards to pass the time within a short travelling distance. Africa Albida Tourism (AAT), a Zimbabwean-based hospitality company launched last year, is reviving Zimbabwe’s famous safari circuit with light aircraft transfers between Victoria Falls, Hwange and Kariba. The route operates between the group’s flagship Victoria Falls Safari Lodge, the newly reopened Bumi Hills Safari Lodge on Lake Kariba and The Hide located in the Hwange National Park. All of these accommodation establishments are located relatively close to each other. While Hwange can be visited by road or air, the trip to Bumi Hills is under one-and-a-half hours by air.

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Book this!

Africa Albida Tourism is offering packages for guests who want to experience the Milk Run starting from R17 853pps (€1 592). These packages include two nights’ stay at Victoria Falls Safari Lodge, two nights stay at The Hide and two nights stay at Bumi Hills Safari Lodge. Also included are all meals and various activities.

Getting there ● British Airways offers daily return flights from Johannesburg into both Victoria Falls and Livingstone. JNB-VFA departs 11:25 arrives 13:10 VFA-JNB departs 13:50 arrives 15:30 JNB-LVI departs 11:00 arrives 12:45 LVI-JNB departs 13:30 arrives 15:15 ● Light transfers are available through Matair Zimbabwe, an air charter company that offers convenient transfers from the Victoria Falls Airport.

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. It features 14 rooms, described as Mainland or Island Suite Lodges. Activities available at the lodge include bird watching, canoe trips, game viewing and fishing as well as tours to the nearby Katambora Tribal Village. Other features 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 in December after refurbishments. www.tourismupdate.co.za

Rovos Rail and Rani Resorts are offering an exclusive luxury getaway package that includes a two-night stay at the five-star Stanley and Livingstone Hotel in Victoria Falls and a twonight 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. Couples’ packages include 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 transfer 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.

Santonga opening postponed until 2011 The opening of Santonga, a biopark planned for Victoria Falls, has been postponed until the end of 2011. The park will include public areas as well as various ‘biomes’ including a butterfly park, a reptile park and possibly a nocturnal park, among others. The park will offer a half-day activity in the Falls area ideal for families and will also offer cultural performances. Santonga will be situated on the same concession as the Victoria Falls Safari Lodge and will be managed by Africa Albida Tourism.

Vic Falls campaign gaining momentum Marketing campaign, GoToVicFalls.com, is gaining momentum, with the possibility of extending the area the campaign covers to include a 500km radius of the Falls. This means the campaign would then include Hwange National Park, Lake Kariba, Livingstone and a portion of Botswana, to name a few. Using the extended area as a hub in the region would give tour operators access to 25 000 bed nights, 26 national parks and eight international airports.

Safari and adventure co.

Rani Resorts teams up with Rovos Rail

ROUGHING IT... An interior view of a tent at Davison’s Camp.

Safari & Adventure Co. adds Davison’s Camp to its portfolio Safari & Adventure Co. has announced the addition of Davison’s Camp in Hwange National Park, Zimbabwe, to its portfolio. The camp is situated in the south-east of the park and within easy distance, by road or air, of the Victoria Falls. The Linkwasha Concession, in which Davison’s Camp is located, offers a mix of diverse habitats and wildlife. The camp consists of nine twin-bedded tents situated in the shade of a grove of false mopane trees. It is open year round and can

Bumi Hills completes premier rooms

Bumi Hills Safari Lodge on Lake Kariba has completed the refurbishment of its lakefacing premier rooms and now also offers spa treatments under a thatched boma overlooking the lake. Air-conditioning has been installed in the rooms

accommodate children of six years and older. The tents and the main area, comprising lounge, dining room, and open campfire area, all overlook the waterhole. Wildlife frequently encountered in the concession and at the waterhole include lion, large herds of elephant, buffalo, leopard, white rhino, spotted hyena, giraffe and sable. In summer, wildebeest, zebra and eland are found in abundance on the open plains, while in winter the waterholes are magnets for elephants, which congregate in enormous numbers to drink.

The Hide gets romantic

The Hide in Hwange National Park has added outdoor baths and showers to two of its suites, making these ideal for honeymoon couples. The camp also offers couples the chance to overnight at the ‘Dove’s Nest’, a secure tree house overlooking an open area of the park.

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December 2009/January 2010

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SXC.HU

food&wine

Chew on this! It’s becoming increasingly common for tourists to travel with the sole purpose of sampling a country’s culinary delights. Is South Africa doing all it can to take a bite of this growing niche? Sue Lewitton finds out more…

Celeb chefs make a meal of SA’s cuisine

rom Gugulethu to the V&A Waterfront, SA’s cuisine is getting the thumbs up from some of the world’s most famous chefs. Jamie Oliver devoted a nine-page feature and the cover of his magazine to Gugulethu restaurant, Mzoli’s Place, which he described as “heaven” and “totally sexy”. Celebrity chefs are even putting their hard-earned money and reputations behind South African ventures, like Gordon Ramsay’s maze and Nobuyuki Matsuhisa’s Nobu, both at the One&Only Cape Town. But why the sudden flurry of interest from celebrity chefs in SA’s culinary offerings? Jeremy Freemantle, Owner of African Relish, a recreational cooking school that recently offered a course hosted by celebrity chef, Reza Mahammad, says: “Our country offers a new alternative to the same old options that have been explored over and over again. South Africa is

14 l December 2009/January 2010

uncharted culinary territory for many.” Freemantle says the diversity of historical and cultural influences on SA’s food is what makes the destination so attractive to both foodies and celebrity chefs alike. In addition, a wealth of fresh produce works to attract chefs to the country. Jenny Morris, Owner of The Giggling Gourmet, says there is very little that SA doesn’t have and doesn’t grow. “Our wines are world class and our cheese industry is growing fast and fabulously.” The whirlwind of interest from overseas chefs is good news for the food tourism industry, says Morris. “People don’t want to take chances with the unknown so a recommendation from a wellknown personality definitely helps to make a decision as to where and what to eat in a foreign country,” she says. “Also, after a visit to our country, celebrity chefs often reproduce some of the dishes they have tasted and tell stories around it.”

My South African Feast puts the spotlight on SA cuisine LAST year, SA Tourism UK launched the ‘My South African Feast’ campaign in a bid to encourage more tourists from the UK to sample the food and wine of South Africa. Activities included taking a number of trainee chefs from the Hoxton Apprentice in the UK to the Prue Leith Academy in SA to learn about local ingredients and cooking methods. Lebo Mokhesi, Country Manager for SA Tourism UK, says since then, culinary-themed press trips and familiarisation trips have been organised by SA Tourism UK. These have included the sampling of Cape Malay delicacies in Cape Town, interactive cooking demonstrations, fine dining at the Chef’s table at the Mount Nelson Hotel and venison cooking at Addo Elephant National Park. This year, SA Tourism also teamed up with celebrity chef Mark Gilchrist to showcase South African food, including seafood, springbok and ostrich. www.tourismupdate.co.za

New venues and more from moyo AFRICAN restaurant group, moyo, has opened two new venues. Moyo Blaauwberg seats up to 400 guests on four levels, including a rooftop bar with views of Cape Town, Robben Island and Table Mountain. Moyo Fountains in Pretoria also seats 400 guests, but the private lawns surrounding the venue can accommodate a further 2 500 guests. Moyoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s signature African entertainment is on offer at both venues daily. In other news, moyo has also launched its new concept, moyo-on-themove, making the moyo experience available at any venue in the country.

Euphoria Sundowner Deck Restaurant and Hydro opens Euphoria Golf Estate & Hydro in the Waterberg area of Limpopo Province has announced the opening of its new Sundowner Deck Restaurant. The Sundower Deck Restaurant presents an ideal venue for functions such as prizegivings, conference lunches, wedding ceremonies and guest sundowers. The main selling points include the access to the restaurant via the cablecar, and the views from the cableway and deck overlooking the golf estate and Springbok Plains. The Sundower Deck Restaurant has a full bar and restaurant facilities open for lunch and dinners and can cater for up to 120 people for private functions. TU1430SD

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food&wine Fifth edition of Wine Tourism Handbook launched THE 2010 EdiTion oF THE WinE Tourism HandBook, a guidE To THE Winelands, has been launched by The World’s Favourite Publications. The guide, which has been endorsed by Cape Town Routes Unlimited, includes updated maps demarcating all wine farms, major roads and places of interest for each wine route. Each map comes with contact details for every farm and tasting room hours. In addition, thumbnail sketches have been provided for some of the best eating experiences on offer in the different wine regions.

new executive chef at Falaza

Leriba Lodge expands

JaimE scoTT has bEEn appoInTEd new executive chef at Falaza Game park and spa in hluhluwe. scott has over 10 years’ experience and has worked internationally as a chef at various top UK restaurants. scott will bring fine dining and à la carte dining to Falaza, which previously offered only buffet-style meals in the surrounding lodges. The kitchen at Falaza has been redesigned and the lodge now offers monthly wine tastings and Italian evenings.

ThE pInoTa TaGE Ta aGE REsTa T URan Ta UR T aT aT LERIba Lodge will be revamped during december 2009 and January 2010, as management of the restaurant changes hands. The restaurant will now be managed by Leriba Leisure Group. Meanwhile, a new development adjacent to Leriba Lodge has opened, with hemingway’s à la carte restaurant and wine cellar and 15 executive five-star business suites to complement the existing 60 luxury suites. Guests will now have a choice between buffet and à la carte offerings.

allée Bleue Wine Estate launches ‘first class’ picnics aLLÉE bLEUE WInE EsTa TaTE Ta aTE nEaR R FRans R ChhoEK In ThE WEsTERn CapE Is noW offering ‘first-class’ summer picnics in the Cape Winelands. aimed at those seeking an elegant day out in the country, the freshly made picnic baskets include some of allée bleue’s wines. Children can safely play in the picnic area, which is secured by a garden wall. The picnics are available every day, depending on the weather.

Hilton Breakfasts keep health in mind The Hilton Durban and Hilton Sandton have introduced the ‘Hilton Breakfast’ – a new dining concept where meals are colour-coded according to their nutritional benefits. This helps guests to select the breakfast that suits their nutritional requirements. Five colours are used to indicate low fat and low calorie, high energy, high fibre, low cholesterol, and Big Time (the works!). ■

Comprising four individual, 5-Star lodges each with its own identity and look and feel, Sabi Sabi Private Game Reserve offers close-encounter, Big 5 safaris combined with unparalleled luxury and a unique brand of excellent service and African hospitality. Sustainable conservation practices mean a reserve that is a hotspot of biodiversity, making Sabi Sabi home to an astonishing diversity of wildlife and a dream safari destination. Selati Camp is intimate, romantic and olde-worlde; Bush Lodge a meeting place for friends in a beautiful contemporary setting; Little Bush Camp small, secluded and following the Bush Lodge style; and the ultra-luxurious Earth Lodge a celebration of organic architecture and rich textures inspired by Nature. ‘Consistently voted one of the world’s top destinations by discerning travelers’.

4 Jameson Avenue, Melrose Estate, 2196 Tel: +27 11 447 7172 Fax: +27 11 442 0728 E-mail: res@sabisabi.com www.sabisabi.com Sabi Sabi Private Game Reserve P.O Box 52665, Saxonwold, 2132 South Africa

Voted one of the world’s top destinations by discerning travelers Voted 3rd Best Luxury Hotel in the World Voted Best Safari Spa in South Africa Voted Best Service in South Africa TU4646

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www.tourismupdate.co.za

profilekapama Karula Camp opens in Kapama An AfricA fric n Anthology fricA

n aFrican anTHoLogy has announced the opening of the brand new karula k camp located inside the kapama k game reserve. The new safari camp, situated on what was previously gwala gwala camp, was acquired in december of last year and features seven luxury tents and five chalets. set on the banks of the Klaserie River, the tents have been positioned beneath sturdy riverine trees, ensuring optimal privacy and proximity to the water’s edge. a new lounge, dining room, bar, pool and pool deck and other guest entertainment areas have also been built with views of the river. The seven luxury air-conditioned tents and five large exclusive chalets, each with a his and hers basin, inside and outside shower and sliding glass doors that wrap around the chalet 260 degrees, offer guests the opportunity to have unrestricted views on to the Klaserie River. The 115 sqm chalets are air-conditioned and come with every conceivable luxury. The new lounge, dining room, bar, pool and pool deck, as well as other guest entertainment areas, all have unrestricted views of the Klaserie River. spa treatments are offered at the nearby

Luxury Living... guests can sleep easy in these luxury tents. Kapama River Lodge, which is only a 15-minute transfer via courtesy shuttle. The Kapama private Game Reserve occupies a vast area between the northern drakensberg mountains and the Greater Kruger national park. It is the largest single-owner game reserve in the region and is perfectly situated to

receive guests flying into Eastgate airport (hoedspruit). The airport is just minutes from the reserve and Kapama provides courtesy airport transfers in open-safari vehicles direct to any of the four lodges in the reserve. Rates include all meals, tea and coffee, accommodation, two daily activities and airport transfers. ■

Kapama Karula Kapama Karula is the latest addition to Kapama. This extraordinary camp, based on the recently acquired Gwala Gwala camp, has now been rebuilt, in many respects into one of the finest camps. The camp consists of seven luxury air-conditioned tents and five large exclusive chalets that are the epitome of luxury. Each has his and hers basins, inside and outside showers and sliding glass doors that wrap 260 degrees around the chalet to offer guests unrestricted views on to one of the most sought-after locations – the Klaserie River. The 115sqm chalets are air-conditioned and come with every imaginable luxury. The new lounge, dining room, bar and pool deck as well as other guest entertainment areas will impress the most particular of connoisseurs. All, of course, with unrestricted views on to the Klaserie River.

For more info contact us at +27 12 368 0600 Email us: res@kapama.com Visit our website: www.kapama.com

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December 2009/January 2010

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destinationmpumalanga Cybele Forest lodge

Mpumalanga

digs deep

Mpumalanga is climbing South Africa’s tourism ladder. Moving from fourth position to the third-most-visited province in 2008, it is hard at work to boost its popularity. Sue Lewitton investigates…

Building geotourism one pebble at a time

EOTOURISM, whIch fOcUSES on the landscape and geographic character of a destination, is gaining popularity throughout the world. As Mpumalanga is home to some of Earth’s oldest and best-preserved geological formations, one could easily think the province should be leading the way in tapping into the geotourism niche. But at this stage, this doesn’t appear to be the case. chris Rippon, Chairman of the Barberton Mountainland Geological Society, says only 50 to 100 tourists travel to Barberton per year for geological tours. Gavin whitfield, a geologist who previously offered geological tours in the area, says he has since stopped as it was difficult

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to make the product viable. Tony ferrar, a consulting ecologist, says the majority of tourists who visit for geological reasons are there for research projects. “It is a niche market that we cannot, as yet, grow actively as the geo assets are not well known and not easily accessed for tourism visits.” The problem with geotourism, says Rippon, is that you need someone with a good background in geology to explain what tourists may see in the field. “One also needs to explain things at a simpler level and avoid the geological jargon geologists take for granted.” Other hurdles include a shortage of pamphlets, maps and signage. Morris Vijoen, a geology lecturer and professor at the University of the Witwatersrand,

says there is also a shortage of interpretive centres. “Centres need to be enhanced and geological interpretation should piggyback on existing structures, for example the Nelspruit Botanical Gardens and museums in the area.” The solution may lie in combining geotourism with other elements, says Rippon. “If you can add wildlife, photography, birding, and cultural and historical tours to the geology tour, it may be possible to survive.” Mpumalanga is particularly well placed to take advantage of this niche, says Whitfield. “Good geological outcrops, spectacular scenery and interesting rocks and an existing tourism infrastructure and culture make the destination more attractive.”

New heritage Site in the pipeline for SA

Recommend these geological gems

THE BaRBERTON-MakHONjWa W Wa Mountainland is working to obtain World Heritage Site (WHS) status. The area was placed on South africa’s World Heritage Tentative List by Unesco in june 2008. The site contains the oldest and best preserved sequence of volcanic and sedimentary rocks on Earth. They provide an unparalleled source of scientific information on the formation of the early Earth from 3,6bn years ago. The area is also rich in biodiversity and offers some of the key elements needed for developing tourism business. These could potentially include adventure tourism, geo-sites, birding, game-viewing, historical and cultural tours, hiking and offroad trails. Decisions on the name of the WHS, as well as its final perimeter will be determined during the planning process, which should be concluded by September 2010.

chRIS RIppON, CHaIRMaN Of Barberton Mountainland Geological Society recommends these sites: ● The Blyde River area features amazing geological landscapes, as well as the Tufa waterfalls on the Leopard Trail. ● The Sudwala caves feature exposures of dolomites with cave formations and what geologists refer to as ‘algal stromatolites’. These are dome shaped algal mounds. ● Kaapsehoop is a trail through Black Reef quartzite formations with balancing rocks and strange eroded shapes. ● Barberton’s mountains have been dated to between 3,5bn and 3,1bn years old. They are very well preserved, allowing geologists to work out what was going on when the first continents were forming. They also contain evidence of the earliest meteorite impacts and the earliest bacterial and algal life forms. ● Nelspruit is home to huge granite batholiths in the Crocodile Gorge.

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www.tourismupdate.co.za

Tourism agencies partner to draw in numbers

LOOK OUT FOR THE FAIRIES… Cybele now offers waterfall weddings in the lodge’s private forest.

Tie the knot at cybele CYBELE fOREST LODGE aND HEaLTH Spa, NEaR THE kruger National park, now offers waterfall weddings in the middle of the lodge’s private forest. Cybele organises all the detail on behalf of the couple. This includes Champagne and a selection of hors d’oeuvres to be served at the waterfall, prepared by the lodge’s Executive Chef, Emile van der Vee. This is followed by a candlelit dinner in the privacy of the wedding couple’s room. a maximum of 50 guests can be accommodated at the location of the waterfall for the ceremony.

MpUMALANGA TOURISM ANd pARKS AGENcy (MTpA) p pA) has signed a partnership agreement with the National Tourism Institute of Mozambique (INATUR) and the Swaziland Tourism Authority (STA). MTpa pa Chairman, Sabelo Mahlalela, says it is hoped that through the partnership, an integrated destination between the three countries will become a reality. “It is in this integrated destination that it will be possible to enjoy a breakfast in Nelspruit, a lunch in Mbabane and a dinner in Maputo in one day,” says Mahlalela. “It is also in this destination that it is possible to package the ecotourism-based products of Mpumalanga with the tropical beaches and nightlife of Mozambique and the royal heritage of kingdom of Swaziland.” Eric Maseko,, CEO of the ST STa a says that improved airlift is also one of the key priorities for the newly formed partnership. “We have identified that we need to prioritise airlift between kruger Mpumalanga International airport, Swaziland and Mozambique and to this end we are working on an aviation strategy and will be organising a 2010 aviation workshop and tour operators’ workshop,” says Maseko.

Notton’s splashes out on new facilities NOTTON’s BUSH CaMp IN THE SaBI SaND GaME RESERv ESER E HaS ESERv recently made some major changes with the addition of a new suite, spa and swimming pool. The emphasis has been on simplicity and keeping the lodge natural and comfortable to ensure it connects well with the bush environment. ■

New boutique hotel and dining options in white River SEaSONS IN afRICa HaS jUST La L UNCHED THE CaSTERBRIDGE Hollow Boutique Hotel situated at the Casterbridge Lifestyle Centre in White River. The hotel opened in june and features 30 rooms, each with a walk-in shower, his and her basins and separate toilet. The rooms also all feature plasma-screen T Tvs, satellite T Tv v,, mini-bar and v Internet connectivity. The Magnolia Restaurant and Magnolia Café have opened adjacent to the hotel. Magnolia Restaurant and Cocktail Lounge caters for dinners and private functions for the public and hotel guests. Breakfasts and light lunches are served at the European-influenced Magnolia Café.

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For complete rest and relaxation, visit Lukimbi Safari Lodge in the Kruger National Park.

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For more information contact reservations on info@lukimbi.com or tel: +27 11 431 1120 www.lukimbi.com December 2009/January 2010

l 19

mooreontourism

fromsatsa

our expert traveller shares her views on tourism

season’s greetings

Food for the soul

CLASSIFIEDS

No one, absolutely no one, has an objection to cheese, chocolate and liqueur

any holidays are Merely a case of Marking tiMe between meals, and most of the joy of exploring a new part of the country or the world is experiencing the taste sensations of unusual cuisine. While most people enjoy something exotic once in a while, a number of travellers would draw the line at eating something that is unrecognisable, or perhaps something that is too queasily recognisable. But no one, absolutely no one, has an objection to cheese, chocolate and liqueur. Which is why an enterprising group of purveyors of these goodies, as well as an art gallery, decided to join forces to create a new route for foodies as an aside to the usual ostriches-and-outside-spaces route of oudtshoorn. the art, cheese, chocolate and liqueur r route begins just 5km outside oudtshoorn. this is where you will come across the Jamstreet farm and the Mooooi gallery (although i might have put too many ‘ooo’s in the name). the name comes from the fact that this art gallery started life as a dairy. Where the cows used to stand and go ‘moooo’, the visitors now stand and go ‘moooooi!’ gallery owners Danie du Plessis and Wim Rheeder have created a gallery with a gift shop, a boutique coffee shop, self-catering accommodation and a labyrinth. after food for the soul it would be time to move on for a meal of a more solid variety: cheese. Sonja Ferreira, of the well-known t tantinki goat-milk cheese factory, opened a shop in oudtshoorn selling 13 different cheeses in 17 flavours. from alpine hilltops it is only a short distance to heaven, and so it is only a short distance from the t tantinki shop to the chocolate boutique of rococo, r which specialises in traditional Belgian chocolates. chocolatier Marita Lamprecht usually only supplies special clients, but the visitor to oudtshoorn can visit her shop to sample her unusual chocolate combinations. a few kilometres away are the vineyards of sandkoppies, the estate for grundheim Wines. the wine cellar is more than 100 years old, and the cellar is famous for its fermentation process in open tanks. the Winery’s logo is a white bull-terrier, which is an apt label for its famous Witblits that sneaks up and bites you from the rear. other products include muscatel, port, liqueurs and pot-still brandy. the route was the brainchild of gallery owner danie, who left the cape town rat race three years ago with ad-agency partner Wim, and bought t the dilapidated dairy farm and proceeded to set up an off-the-beaten-track attraction. “it’s not your average art gallery,” he says of the Moooooi (still don’t know how many ‘ooo’s) gallery. “We have tried to create a destination. the gift shop is very trendy, we have built an amphitheatre where we will put on top-class shows; we had a classical festival earlier this year and intend to have regular concerts. “the setting is quite spectacular, with the k karoo evenings and the backdrop of the swartberg Mountains.” the other businesses on the route were invited on board because they are small, personal businesses, they are complementary products – they are unique and upmarket offerings. Visitors pick up a route map from their guest house or the tourist office and at each of the four destinations they get a sticker. once they have four stickers they get a small gift as a souvenir of the route. the route is featured on the website www.oudtshoorninfo.com.

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20 l December 2009/January 2010

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It was quite encouraging to have a report-back from our Communications Manager on her recent arrival back in South Africa at ORTIA. She found both Immigration and baggage handling to be really efficient, customs was friendly and no problem, and she was out of the airport less than half an hour after landing from London at peak morning hour. Her baggage was intact and undamaged. In more than thirty years of travelling from and to South Africa it was the most seamless and painless arrival ever. And, she said, much better than her experiences in either UK or USA. So congratulations to all concerned at the airport, and we trust they will all keep up the good work. It makes such a difference to a visitor’s impression of our country – and can be safely considered as 2010-ready. It was also interesting to hear just how much goodwill there is among ordinary people overseas to South Africa for the World Cup. They do have concerns, but all really want us to succeed. With so much goodwill, now it’s up to us to deliver. And we will. Full marks to the new department of tourism on its successful national conference. This is the first staged as a fully fledged department on its own, and the minister has certainly been active this year (with the dedicated focus and time that he has available). He has participated in a number of tourism events, which the industry has greatly appreciated. Their conference had some interesting talks, and also introduced some challenging topics – such as Universal Access (for both accommodation as well as transport). What was interesting was the huge size of the disabled market, certainly something for everyone to consider seriously in these economically challenged times. Also it was gratifying to see some notable industry successes celebrated – SA Breweries World Of Beer spoke convincingly about what they had done to win the Welcome Award earlier this year; and Avis presented on how it had become the first corporate (in any sector of the SA economy) to be carbon-neutral. Well done! We wish all in tourism a happy and successful Festive Season, and a Happy and Prosperous New Year.

For more information contact: Marjorie Dean ttel: +27 86 12 728 72 Fax: +27 11 886 7557 Email: communications@satsa.co.za Website: www.satsa.co.za Physical address: 3rd Floor Petrob House 343 Surrey aavenue Ferndale Postal address: PO Box 900 Ferndale, 2160

"SatSa means business" www.tourismupdate.co.za

Tourism Marketing Index Whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s on operatorsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; minds?

What are the leading tourism brands in each major market?

The top three destinations in Southern Africa...?

Focusing on Southern Africa Distributed to SA-based and overseas tour operators and DMCs, the Tourism Marketing Index strives to present a snapshot of the perceptions of our wholesale partners providing fascinating insights into how the overseas travel and tourism sectors perceive South Africa and its tourism product. The third quarterly Tourism Marketing Index, organised by Grant Thornton and the Southern Africa Tourism TU4648

Services Association (SATSA), will run in January 2010. To participate in the survey as a tour operator, simply visit SA Tourism Update Online (www.tourismupdate. co.za), .za), our daily tourism and destination news site and register as a reader. Details will be released early next year. If you are a South African-based supplier, the results of the first and second Tourism Marketing Index are already available on SA Tourism Update Online.

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