Southern African Tourism Update

SOUT H ERN AFRI C AN

June 2009 I Issue 206 I www.travelhub.co.za

for organisers of tours

Kids’ Clubs Tending to the tots

2010 World Cup Mauritius on board Key role for Cape Town

Limpopo delights tourists

● Fair trade packages ● SA wedding market grows ● Golf: Pushed to the extreme

Guests step off their flights, onto our complimentary airport shuttle, or private meet and greets, and step straight into a world of timeless elegance, luxurious comfort, unrivalled excitement and impeccable service. Voted Africa’s leading casino resort for three years running,

Emperors Palace Hotel Casino and Convention Resort offers international standards of excellence next to Johannesburg’s OR Tambo International Airport - making it your ultimate first-night-in, last-night-out destination.

Relax in 5, 4 and 3 star comfort and safety at one of four awardwinning resort hotels ranging from classical 5-star elegance to affordable 3-star new-world chic. Unwind in our renowned health and beauty spa with private treatment rooms, lush manicured gardens with magnificent fountains, or crystal clear pools.

Experience unparalleled gaming enjoyment in our world-class casino and unmatched entertainment catering to all ages.

Savour a world of cuisine in our Indian, Chinese, Portuguese, Italian and African restaurants. Sit back in Africa’s finest and most innovative 6 theatre movie complex, opening soon, or go on an unforgettable shopping spree nearby.

Guests can include in their stay a trip to our pristine sister resort, Mondazur Hotel in the San Lameer estate, on the southern coast of KwaZulu-Natal. Only 90 minutes from Durban International Airport, and just 20 minutes from Margate Airport, visitors can

play on the 18-hole championship golf course or bask on its Blue Flag beach. They can also enjoy jogging, tennis, squash or bowls, bird or whale watching, as well as the freshest local seafood and a la carte cuisine.

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Behold Emperors Palace, a multi-award winning resort next to Johannesburg’s international airport!

For bookings or details on any Peermont Hotel contact: Central Reservations Tel: 0860 777 900 (within South Africa) Tel: +27 11 557 0777 (International) Fax: +27 (0)11 557 0888 Email: reservations@peermont.com

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Peermont International Sales Tel: +27 (0)11 557 0557 Fax: +27 (0)11 463 6185 Email: intsales@peermont.com Web: www.peermont.com

The Palace of Dreams

WORLD TRAVEL AWARDS - AFRICA’S LEADING CASINO RESORT SOUTH AFRICA 2006, 2007 and 2008

inthisissue

ed’snote

June 2009

the green battleground

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2 IN THE NEWS

A look at the latest tourism, destination and eco news from Southern Africa 2 An upbeat Zim tourism sector 5 Unique township tourism model for Mossel Bay 10 SAX heads for Maun

8 The Goal Post

Cape Town named as 2010 corporate base

12 Limpopo

Tourism gold under threat

14 Kids’ Clubs

A selection of kiddies-only activities

15 Mozambique

A hot cruise destination

18 Golf

Hot on the scene in Southern Africa

20 Profile: Pezula

Everything you need to know about this exclusive estate

21 Romantic getaways Small spend, big weddings

24 Moore on tourism

Responsible tourism – the other side

et 2009 be the year I mend my wasteful ways and grow an eco conscience!

I can hardly blame my upbringing for my lapsing into laziness. With thriftiness much like that of the post-World War II generation, my parents would recycle plastic bottles, reuse plastic containers and think twice before they chucked anything. Our hoarding tendencies as a family were renowned in the neighbourhood and occasionally, the object of ridicule.

And as I sit here glancing at the three bottled waters on my desk and the pile of discarded, waste paper on my left, I can hardly remember the point at which I began to rebel and liberally use and abuse precious resources almost guilt-free.

The epiphany came to me just a few weeks ago sifting through the mound of paper I had willingly collected from Indaba. As I said at the time in my Opinion Piece on TravelHub (www.travelhub.co.za), I may have justified the rampant collection of marketing material by saying it would all be archived and at some stage used or in fact, recycled. But if I was honest with myself, I’d gaze forlornly at the vast collections never used, and realise there would be no need to recycle these if I hadn’t collected them in the first place.

So what can I do about it now that I’m growing a conscience? A few simple things, said one expert: I can limit my consumption and waste, and I can compromise by offsetting what I can’t do without.

In a world of marketing buzzwords – sustainable development, conservation, organic, eco-tourism, and community involvement – I can demand more detail and hold you accountable for showing me the positive contribution you say you’re making. I can ask the right questions.

And in this green battleground, best you know the right answers because your clients will be asking the same of you!

Cover photo: &Beyond

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

Design Brendon Bester Printed by JUKA PRINTING (Pty) Ltd Published by Lugan Investments (Pty) Ltd trading as Now Media Tel: +27-11 327-4062 Fax: +27-11 327-4094 www.nowmedia.co.za

Nteboheng Phakisi, Liesl Venter, Jeanette Phillips, Chana Viljoen Advertising Sales Franck Deroche, Dee van Gaalen advertising@tourismupdate.co.za Advertising Co-ordinator Neo Matonkonyane Photographer Tijana Huysamen

SUBSCRIPTION RATES R295 RSA full price R875 Foreign (airmail) full price R655 Neighbouring Africa

Contact a Thompsons Africa representative for a wedding or honeymoon that offers more than just co-ordination and planning of every detail of your special day but also a very personal touch, ensuring every aspect of your most romantic day is taken care of.

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Southern African Tourism Update

Tel: +27 31 275 3500 Fax: +27 31 275 3990 info@thompsonsafrica.com www.thompsonsafrica.com JUNE 2009

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tourismnews

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Satemwa

Zim tourism sector upbeat Kate Els AFTER a long negative period, Zimbabwe’s tourism industry is encouraged by four months of positive growth that have shown there is still great interest in the destination.

Givemore Chidzidzi, Chief Operating Officer at the Zimbabwe Tourism Authority, says the industry has seen great growth in recent months following the formation of a coalition government and the lifting of travel advisories from major source markets such as the USA and Germany.

“The travel advisory breakthrough is a great development,” he says. “All those markets that were not serious about Zimbabwe before, are now considering it as a destination to visit.”

He added that there had been a definite increase in enquiries and a renewed interest in the destination on the whole.

Last year saw a 22 per cent drop in arrival numbers into the country in comparison with 2007, for various political and social reasons, and Chidzidzi believes that, despite the global economic crisis, the country will soon experience a significant influx of tourists.

African Sun Limited Group CEO, Shingi Munyeza, affirms Chidzidzi’s sentiment, noting that business to the portfolio’s Zimbabwe business-orientated properties has increased recently.

Munyeza confirmed that while the group had experienced a lower number of leisure travellers, plans would still be carried out to develop numerous properties. He added that areas in the region with development potential were being investigated.

Zimbabwe will host an investment conference this month to identify opportunities in tourism and related sectors.

It will be held in Harare and is a follow-on from the Minister of Economic Planning and Investment Promotion, Elton Mangoma’s, call for investment in the sector in April.

A PERFECT BASE FOR EXPLORING… The Satemwa tea estate in Malawi’s Shire Highlands.

Ulendo and Satemwa to rejuvenate Shire Highlands tourism potential Jeanette Phillips Ulendo Travel Group has entered into a joint venture with Satemwa, a tea estate in Malawi, to refurbish Huntingdon House and Chawani Bungalow and to open them as lodges for visitors to the estate.

Operating under the Satemwa Ulendo Lodges brand, the project will give visitors to the region an opportunity to enjoy the scenery of Malawi’s Shire Highlands in a total of 10 en-suite rooms with Huntingdon House offering luxury accommodation in six suites while Chawani Bungalow will focus on midrange accommodation.

Satemwa’s close proximity to Mount Mulanje, Malawi’s highest peak, makes the estate a perfect base to explore the imposing

TEP surprises with bold new identity at Indaba This year’s Indaba saw THE Tourism Enterprise Partnership (TEP) reveal a startling change of visual and marketing identity for the organisation. From its previous functional identity, TEP has leapt into modern design and is positioning itself as a vibrant marketingorientated organisation.

Siva Pillay, Chief Executive of TEP, explains: “From April last year, when the organisation officially became a Section 21 not for profit company, we have been working to revise the strategy, approach and influence of the TEP. The final change is that of the identity to truly reflect our organisational vision and mission. We have become an organisation that practises what we preach – marketing

2 l June 2009

is a vital component in successful tourism enterprises and we wanted to reflect this in our new approach.”

TEP has worked on the new marketing strategy and identity over the past six months, and felt that Indaba was the ideal place to reveal the new look and positioning of the organisation.

Hannelie du Toit, Manager Business Development and Marketing at TEP, explains the new approach: “We have deliberately chosen vibrant colours and used a graphic icon based on the idea of steps.

Our approach is a step-by-step one with tourism enterprises, and our positioning is about inviting clients to ‘Step up to your potential’.”

massif. The Shire Highlands can easily be combined with itineraries to Zambia’s wildlife-rich Luangwa Valley, beach holidays on Lake Malawi or expeditions into some of Mozambique’s more remote wilderness areas such as Niassa Reserve.

Activities being introduced on the estate include hiking trails, mountain biking, horseback tours, ATV motorcycle treks and 4x4 excursions.

Nearby Thyolo Mountain’s unique rainforest is home to several endangered bird species like the Alethe cholensis, White-winged apalis and the Green-headed oriole.

Being in the heart of Malawi’s tea growing region, an introduction to the fine teas and coffees of the estate adds a further attraction to touring this area.

Zambia opens new routes Kate Els Open Africa, a network of conservation-oriented tourism routes, has planned the inclusion of four new routes in Zambia.

The Kasanka Eco-tourism Route winds through the privately managed Kasanka National Park, and the North Luangwa route is located in the remote areas surrounding the North Luangwa National Park.

Mpika and Surrounds is a gateway route that links up with the North Luangwa route and the Southern Kafue route includes parts of Kafue National Park and a number of operators in the game management areas bordering the park. www.travelhub.co.za

tourismnews SA TOURISM

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Zim to install more ATMs

An initial consignment of 10 new ATMs will be installed at Kingdom Bank branches in Zimbabwe within the next three months. Similar agreements are under negotiation with other financial institutions in Zimbabwe and Zambia. This will help travellers, who have struggled to obtain hard currency in Zimbabwe.

Online booking for Maropeng

Maropeng has implemented an easy-to-use online booking system for its hotel and restaurants. Maropeng is the official visitor centre of the Cradle of Humankind World Heritage Site.

New 7th wonder for Cape?

Greenmarket receives revamp Jeanette Phillips Cape Town’s Greenmarket Square, arguably the city’s most famous flea market, is being upgraded. The upgrading is divided into two phases and construction is expected to end by November.

Phase one of the upgrading includes installing additional CCTV cameras and pedestrian lights, benches, interpretive signage and paving the existing sidewalks. Phase two includes the upgrading of the ablution facility. A stage will replace the existing roof of the ablution block

to accommodate special events like lunch-time concerts.

“With the expanded space for a café society environment along Shortmarket Street, the improved paving and sidewalks and the upgraded toilet facilities and lighting, this is sure to be a popular destination and events space next year,” says Councillor J P Smith, Chairperson of the Good Hope Subcouncil.

The Greenmarket Square traders, with assistance from the City of Cape Town, will continue to trade on a temporary site in the Company’s Garden (Government Avenue) during the construction period.

Regional focus for Africa Albida Natalia Thomson “We’re going regional!” That’s the word from Africa Albida Tourism Group CE, Ross Kennedy, who confirmed that talks were currently under way with developers on several hotels of significant size in Botswana, Malawi, Zambia and South Africa.

On the status of projects on the go, he said, the group’s biggest project, Santonga Park at Victoria Falls, a multi-faceted historical, educational, cultural entertainment and wildlife park, was taking shape. The concepts of Santonga, and the group’s cultural cuisine offering, The Boma, said Kennedy, would likely be expanded overseas eventually.

Dolphin Trail rebuilt

The Dolphin Trail, which was damaged by fire and floods in 2008, has been rebuilt.

Comprising the Tsitsikamma National Park, Misty Mountain Reserve and The Fernery at Forest Ferns, the 17km trail follows the Tsitsikamma coastal belt, a narrow plateau between the Tsitsikamma Mountains and the Indian Ocean. Three night stops are spent at a four-star accommodation.

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HIP TO BE SQUARE...Greenmarket is a popular tourist shopping spot.

South Africa is set to receive a massive tourism boost should Table Mountain be named one of the New Seven Wonders of Nature. Jordan reported more than 100 per cent increase in visitors to the ancient ruins of Petra after it was declared a New Seventh Wonder in 2007 and visits to Machu Picchu soared by 70 per cent. Other African natural sites to come through the first round include the Kalahari Desert, the Great Rift Valley, the Avenue of Baobabs, Lake Tanganyika, the Kafue National Park and the Victoria Falls.

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Southern African Tourism Update

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eco-tourism For free daily news updates: www.travelhub.co.za

TAKE A BREAK AT

Voluntours pilots community initiatives Natalia Thomson

It’s happening!

HOTELS Orion Mont-Aux-Sources

N-Drakensberg, KwaZulu-Natal Tel: +27 36 438 8000 gmmont@orion-hotels.co.za GPS: S 28°39'40.2" • E 028°59'58.6"

Orion Piggs Peak Hotel & Casino

Braamfontein, Johannesburg Tel: +27 11 339 5611 gmdev@orion-hotels.co.za GPS: S 26°11'34.13" • E 028°02'09.72"

Orion Safari Lodge

Rustenburg Kloof, NW Province Tel: +27 14 594 1030 gmsafari@orion-hotels.co.za GPS: S 25°41'11.5" • E 027°11'46.2" Wartburg, KwaZulu-Natal Tel: +27 33 503 1482 gmwartburg@orion-hotels.co.za GPS: S 29°26'5.08" • E 030°34'58.48"

Orion Katse Lodge

Lesotho Tel: +266 229 10202 gmkatse@orion-hotels.co.za GPS: S 29°19'50.56" • E 028°28'52.14"

Orion Mohale Lodge

Lesotho Tel: +266 229 36432 gmmohale@orion-hotels.co.za GPS: S 29°28'42.5" • E 028°03'42.8"

Orion Hotel Promenade

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R&R13746

Nelspruit, Mpumulanga Tel: +27 13 753 3000 promenade@promenadehotel.co.za GPS: S 25°28'15.2" • E 030°58'47.41"

4 l June 2009

FTTSA to explore fair trade packages Natalia Thomson

Orion Hotel Wartburg

Central Reservations: +27 11 718 6452 (Office Hours) www.oriongroup.co.za

w.sxc.hu

Orion Hotel Devonshire

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Swaziland Tel: +268 437 1104 gmpiggspeak@orion-hotels.co.sz GPS: S 25°54'21.95" • E 031°17'40.65"

GOING right down to the grass-root level is Voluntours, which is piloting a range of community travel experiences aimed at exposing South Africa’s rich culture first hand.

Rural home stays, now on offer, provide the ideal opportunity for people to interact on a personal level with community members. By staying in a local home, volunteers are able to experience firsthand the hospitality and friendliness of the host family. At the same time, volunteers are exposed to the realities of life in a rural community. Guided bicycle tours, a community bicycle project, has evolved into a sustainable tourism activity by providing a leisurely cycle or walking tour of the community and volunteer projects, as well as a full-day ride to the nearby Tswaing Meteorite Crater. Voluntours is also pioneering the concept of an eco-home built with natural resources available in the community, ie. sand. Building with sand is not a new concept but it is being driven by the need to find affordable and environmentally friendly building methods.

SOUTH Africa’s Fair Trade in Tourism (FTTSA) will be pioneering a global project to draft trade standards for monitoring the flow of money and other Fair Trade issues with an initial focus on the German and Swiss markets.

Draft trade standards will be developed with partner organisations in Germany and Switzerland including tourism development organisations, tour operators, Fair Trade experts and national Fair Trade licensing initiatives.

Travel packages incorporating these standards will then be developed by tour operators, independently audited by a Fair Trade service provider and finally marketed to German and Swiss consumers to test demand for fairly traded travel and to identify target market segments. Depending on results, the pilot will then be extended to additional source markets.

Global stakeholders will be invited to comment on the draft trade standards and other projects via an online forum managed by FTTSA.

CTICC goes green CAPE Town International Convention Centre (CTICC) has launched a range of ‘green’ conference and event packages. The new range of green packages allows clients to purchase green power rather than conventional power, use water jugs instead of bottled water, use recycled notepads and pencils and choose organic meal options. Additionally, a percentage of each delegate’s fee is donated to the CTICC Green Fund, which supports eco-projects in Cape Town. www.travelhub.co.za

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SA TOURISM

Online product finder launched Natalia thomson AN interactive web-mapping tool, launched by the Department of Environmental Affairs and Tourism (Deat) at Indaba, will show the locations of graded establishments, as well as other tourism products and services within South Africa.

The tool, which will be used by tourists during the 2009 Confederations Cup, 2010 Soccer World Cup and beyond, is intended for use by local and international tourists.

The mapping application contains interactive maps, imagery and details of more than 8 000 accommodation and tourist facilities. The system can also generate directions to locations specified by the user.

The portal viewer is categorised into accommodation, tourist activities, emergency services, stadiums, weather, local traffic reports, map functions, transport and entertainment. Tourists can also find the details of their embassies or consulates through the website. Up-to-date weather and traffic information is provided to users according to the specific vicinity that they are searching in.

The system also provides a function that allows for directions and maps to be forwarded to the user’s mobile phone. The Tourism Products Spatial Viewer is located on www.touristmaps.co.za.

ON THE TRAIL… The Northern Cape is famed for its 4x4 adventure routes.

N Cape touts itself as ‘extreme’ playground THE world’s “playground” for extreme global sporting challenges is how Northern Cape Tourism is hoping to brand itself in future.

Launched at Indaba, the campaign focusing on ground, air and water adventure activities is aimed at positing the province as the permanent home of multiple Extreme Global Sporting challenges. A “high-adrenalin” event will be held and broadcast live to a global extreme audience over a period of seven days with the event showcasing 20 extreme

sports, including an extreme desert marathon, desert biking, air boarding, power boating and cave diving, among others. Some 400 extreme athletes will participate in the event to be spread across the Northern Cape’s five tourism regions.

Says Sharron Lewis, Northern Cape Tourism CEO: “As the province which does nothing in small measures, ranging from sporting adrenalin adventure to eco-tourism extremes, we are on a serious mission to become the last word on Extreme Global Sporting challenges.”

Unique township tourism model for Mossel Bay

52 Sea facing, en-suite luxury rooms. Spectacular sea views from your private balcony, from where you can watch the Humpback and Southern Right whales or dolphins passing!

What makes this Mossel Bay township experience unique, however, is the fact that it’s not run by an operator. Rather it is about a stay in a quality hotel in a previously disadvantaged community. As an added extra, the partnership has sourced talent and products in the community.

“A typical itinerary would see guests staying a night at the Hotel Portão Diaz, where a children’s dance group and visual artists from the local community will meet and entertain

them. During the day, as an optional extra, we can arrange a guide who can take visitors to visit people and places in the community like an artists’ collective, a shebeen and a traditional healer. Then, on the second night, visitors would stay at the seaside at The Point Hotel,” says Louis Harris, the owner of both hotels.

“Alternatively if the itinerary is limited, visitors could stay at either of the hotels for one night and visit a shebeen on their way to Oudtshoorn the next day.”

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MOSSEL Bay’s Point Hotel and the Hotel Portão Diaz have put a product together providing visitors with a unique and life-enriching experience.

Although the community surrounding it is described as previously disadvantaged, the Portão Diaz offers stunning sea views and a panoramic vista over varying residential areas ranging from upmarket to shanty town – a clear reflection of the cultural diversity of the Mossel Bay area.

★★★★

Point Road, Mossel Bay

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

www.pointhotel.co.za

Southern African Tourism Update

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productnews For free daily news updates: www.travelhub.co.za

Tsogo Sun and Southern Sun have announced the development of a new hotel, Southern Sun Montecasino, in Fourways, Johannesburg.

Jabu Mabuza, Group Chief Executive of Tsogo Sun and Executive Chairman of Southern Sun, says: “This new development, named The Pivot, incorporates the hotel, an office development and retail space, and is proof of our unwavering and steadfast belief in the strength of the South African economy and particularly in the future of our leisure industry.

Our investment in this project is R700million (US$81m). This brings the total investment in our flagship Montecasino property to R2,5 billion (US$290m).�

The opening of the new hotel is set for May, 2010, just in time for the 2010 Soccer World Cup. it comprises 194 bedrooms with a large proportion of double/double rooms to cater for the sport and leisure market. A speciality restaurant seating 120 people is planned, as well as an outdoor pool and leisure area, a lobby bar and lounge and a high spec gymnasium. Southern Sun Montecasino will also house a 1 400-sqm conference centre aimed at the day-conference package market, as well as an array of small conference and meeting rooms, all with the latest audio-visual packages.

Convenience retail outlets, including a business

Southern Sun

Southern Sun ups JNB hotel offering

HOTEL TO BE‌ An artist’s impression of the Southern Sun Montecasino under development. centre and a beauty salon, are planned and a new CafĂŠ Bar on the Square will cater for office tenants, visitors and hotel guests. “The new development and the Southern Sun Montecasino will definitely be a welcome addition to the node. We are proud to introduce this new gem in the crown of

Southern Sun. We can’t wait to welcome our visitors from all over the world to experience true Southern warmth in these beautiful surroundings. This will be a major draw-card for all who visit Johannesburg, no doubt,� says Graham Wood, Managing Director of Southern Sun.

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New Bots mobile safari launched In co-operation with its sister company Chobe Explorations, Desert & Delta Safaris has announced the introduction of its new 11-day Botswana luxury accommodated guided mobile safari.

The mobile safari will give guests the opportunity to gain an insight into areas and wildlife not necessarily available on a typical fly-in safari, whilst still enjoying the comfort of Desert & Delta Safaris’ lodges within Botswana’s famous Okavango Delta, game reserves and national parks. Each departure is accompanied by a selected professional safari guide. With a minimum of two and maximum of six participants per departure, guests will travel in fully equipped and customised luxury safari vehicles owned and operated by Chobe Explorations. This safari will take in the highlights of the Chobe River, Savute, the Moremi Game Reserve, the Okavango Delta and the Makgadikgadi National Park. Scheduled departures begin in Victoria Falls or Livingstone and end in Maun as well as operating in reverse depending on scheduled departure dates.

Private activities are provided throughout by the accompanying guide and are tailored in consultation with the group allowing the flexibility to meet the group’s needs and interests.

The safari can also be booked by private small groups or individuals. This guided mobile safari is fully inclusive of all services.

Vineyard launches new wing

Cape Town’s Vineyard Hotel & Spa is celebrating its 115th birthday with the launch of a multimillion-rand wing that adds 32 rooms to the property. The hotel’s existing 175 rooms have recently been refurbished and facilities include a conference venue, a state-of-the-art fitness centre, a spa and two gourmet restaurants.

Rovos Rail celebrates two decades

Rovos Rail celebrated its 20th aniversary in April with the launch of its newest product, the Rovos Rail Day Train. The Day Train has been built and designed as an events venue for the corporate and incentives market. The train will be able to accommodate up to 200 guests for a circular trip around Pretoria or a journey to any destination within three to four hours’ rail travel time from Pretoria.

The Day Train offers dining, lounge and bar facilities.

New video conferencing at The Rosebank

THE Rosebank Hotel in Johannesburg has installed the, a state-of-the-art video conferencing solution for corporate guests.

The solution provides a high-resolution video giving crystal-clear images.

Islands in Africa combines luxury and tranquillity with privacy to create an unforgettable experience.

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Partake in a variety of exceptional land and water based activities including Africa’s legendary tiger fishing and famed big game viewing.

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Lowveld Environmental Services

Specialists in OPEN VEHICLE SAFARIS into the Kruger National Park for FIT’s and Groups www.les-safaris.com reservations@les-safaris.com Tel: 013 745 7063 • Fax: 013 745 8071 PO Box 8912 • Sonpark 1206 • South Africa

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thegoalpost A monthly round-up of everything about football going on in and around South Africa in preparation for the 2010 Soccer World Cup

Cape Town to benefit as corporate World Cup base Hilka Birns

C

APE Town will greatly benefit from a decision

by MATCH, the official accommodation agency for the FIFA World Cup 2010, to make the city the base for all international corporates attending the event.

This was the word from MATCH’s Senior Accommodation Manager, Vivienne Bervoets, when she updated an industry meeting in Cape Town recently on 2010 readiness. The meeting was organised by a regional tourism industry partnership termed JAMMS (Joint Association Members Meeting Sessions) comprising Cape Town Tourism, Fedhasa Cape, SAACI and SATSA Western Cape. JAMMS meets quarterly to discuss issues of common concern in the province.

Bervoets said the only way for international corporates to get FIFA tickets was to buy official Match Ville hospitality packages from FIFA-accredited tour operators. These would operate on a ‘follow-your-team’ principle.

When their favourite team was knocked

out of the tournament, corporates would automatically be sent to Cape Town. “We are trying to make as many corporates as possible stay in Cape Town and make the city the corporate base for the duration of the event,” she said.

Because there isn’t enough accommodation in the host cities to accommodate all fans moving from one city to another for the different matches, people are being encouraged to base themselves in a particular city and MATCH undertakes to transport them to the matches on the day from wherever they are staying. This means the expected average time spent travelling to matches will be nine hours and 45 minutes, however MATCH believes this will be acceptable to the fans.

A satellite accommodation strategy will benefit cities like George, which won’t a host a match but will provide tourism attractions and air links to Johannesburg, Cape Town and Port Elizabeth.

Match Ville Packages will consist of an accommodation cluster, transport (by air and ground) and tickets. Tour operators will

add on international flights and pre- and post tours to make up the final product.

Bervoets said Match Ville packages took away the risk for overseas tour operators to buy accommodation for the event, because at the moment they did not know which teams would qualify or where they would be playing. She said because Match Ville was linked to accredited accommodation providers, it was assisting the Department of Transport and Airports Company SA in determining what ground transport and air capacity was needed for the event.

“We cannot be held responsible for the transport of people staying in unaccredited accommodation,” she added.

Bervoets said MATCH so far had contracted 32 500 of the targeted 55 000 rooms needed.

“It’s quite disappointing. We’re still hoping to reach 40 000 rooms, but I doubt we will reach the target. We will just have to make do with what we have.”

She said MATCH’s next step was to complete the logistics plan and to continue contracting more accommodation providers.

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8 l June 2009

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Soccer fans are set for a heritage showcase when they visit South Africa, with Visa’s proactive approach to showcasing the country’s offerings, not only to international visitors but also the locals.

Says James Clarke, head of Regional Marketing, Sub-Saharan Africa for Visa: “We hope to create more awareness about the definitive sights in South Africa. “By offering discounted rates, we hope to draw people into the beauty of South Africa to create a sense of wonder and pride as we step into 2010.”

Sites where the special Visa offers will be available were carefully selected and include key tourist attractions. In Johannesburg the Apartheid Museum, Gold Reef City theme park and Constitution Hill were chosen, while Cape Town’s Two Oceans Aquarium, the Gold of Africa museum and the District Six museum are part of the promotion.

In Port Elizabeth the Red Location Museum and Bayworld were chosen, and uShaka Marine World in Durban is set to showcase the treasures of KwaZulu Natal.

The discount promotion at various heritage sites is, however, only valid on request.

Tourists will have to show the Visit with Visa brochure or a print-out from www.visa.co.za when asking for the various discounts.

Media Club South Africa

Visa showcases heritage

READY AND WAITING… The Ellis Park Stadium in Johannesburg has been revamped.

All systems go for Ellis Park The upgrade of Ellis Park in Doornfontein, Johannesburg, is complete.

Now able to seat 62 000 football fans, the stadium underwent some major changes, upping its capacity by almost nine per cent from its previous 57 000 seats. This followed the revamping of the north, south and west stands as well as adding a new roof. Changes were also brought to the change rooms, VIP areas, media and medical facilities and a new entrance façade has been built for the north stand.

Parking outside the stadium has also been upgraded and the Johannesburg Development Agency has upgraded the area around the stadium.

TU1379SD

Southern African Tourism Update

June 2009

l9

aviationnews AIRLINK

For free daily news updates: www.travelhub.co.za

Fly the Creole Spirit. Non-stop to Paradise...

ADDITIONAL FLIGHT… Airlink will operate an ERJ 135 aircraft on its Beira route.

Non-stop weekly flights to the Seychelles islands from Johannesburg with departures on Fridays and Sundays.

Air Seychelles, Johannesburg Tel: 011 781-2141 • Fax: 011 781-2144 Email: deon@airseychelles.co.za www.airseychelles.com TU1310SD

Airlink ups Beira flights AIRLINK has upped its capacity to Beira with the introduction of an additional Wednesday flight from Johannesburg.

The airline says corporate travellers were previously the main users of the route, but now Beira can also accommodate the leisure market.

In the new timetable, flights from Johannesburg from Monday to Friday depart at 11h00, arriving

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British Airways offers a daily flight between Johannesburg and Victoria Falls.

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in Beira at 12h40. On Sundays the flight departs Johannesburg at 12h25, arriving in Beira 14h05.

The return service departs Beira at 13h00 from Monday to Friday, arriving in Johannesburg at 14h50.

On Sundays the flight departs Beira at 14h35, arriving in Johannesburg at 16h25. The airline uses an ERJ 135 aircraft on the route.

Air Botswana announces new routes

Air Botswana’s route network is being expanded since the purchase of two new ART72-500 aircraft. Later in the year, the carrier plans to reintroduce flights between Johannesburg and Francistown and JNB and Kasane. It will also add three flights a week between JNB and Gaborone.

All systems go for non-stop US service

Delta will operate the first non-stop service between the US and South Africa, starting on June 2. It will replace the current daily service via Dakar. “Given the strong demand on this route, we’re upgrading to a B777 aircraft, which has more capacity and allows us to offer a greater level of comfort with fully flat seats in business class and in-flight entertainment at every seat,” said Margaret Copeland, Delta Sales Manager South Africa. Passengers flying non-stop to Atlanta will save around three hours in each direction compared with the current one-stop service, and six hours when compared with routes via Europe.

SAA adds sixth Luanda flight

SAA has announced the addition of a sixth weekly flight to Luanda, Angola. The new flight will operate out of Johannesburg on a Friday, making Wednesday the only day the airline does not fly to Luanda. Flight SA054, departs at 10h05 to arrive in Luanda at 12h45, with the return flight SA055 departing at 14h45 and arriving in JNB at 19h00.

Lonrho to build Angolan network

Flights operated by Comair Limited.

TU1319SD

10 l June 2009

Lonrho’s regional African airline, Fly540, has been granted a licence to operate in Angola. The airline hopes to be granted its Air Operators Certificate shortly, after which it will launch two-class passenger services to Cabinda, Luanda, Soyo, Benguela, Huambo and Malanje using new ATR72 aircraft. www.travelhub.co.za

aviationnews

For free daily news updates: www.travelhub.co.za

Air Namibia drops Gatwick service TAAG announces AIR Namibia announced last month that its service from Gatwick to Windhoek would be suspended until further notice.

After reassessing demand for the route, the airline says suspending the service could decrease its losses, given the current economic environment.

To minimise consequent disruption, the carrier has decided to increase its services between Windhoek and Frankfurt from five to six per week. The additional flight will be on the Thursday and Friday rotation from July 2.

As a result, all passengers currently booked on the affected London flights from this date will automatically be re-routed on the same day.

SAX heads for Maun

Air Seychelles, AF renew agreement

SA Express Airways will launch daily flights to Maun, Botswana, from July 1.

The flights depart Johannesburg at 10h15, arriving in Maun at 12h05 on Mondays, Wednesdays and Saturdays. The return flights operate on the same day, departing Maun at 13h10, arriving in Johannesburg at 14h50.

On Tuesdays, Thursdays, Fridays and Sundays, flights depart Johannesburg at 10h30, arriving in Maun at 12h20. The return flights depart Maun at 13h10, arriving in Johannesburg at 14h50.

The airline will use a CRJ 50-seater aircraft in a single cabin configuration. Passengers will be allowed a maximum of 20kg of checked baggage.

Air Seychelles and Air France have renewed their co-operation agreement under which an Air Seychelles B767-300 will continue to operate the Paris-Seychelles route on behalf of both airlines. Both airlines will share seating capacity and each airline will sell their seat allocations independently.

The agreement, which came into force on April 1, covers a three-year period.

Air Seychelles Executive Chairman, Captain David Savy said: “We are delighted to be extending our partnership with Air France, which has been a loyal partner over the past 12 years.”

AF and Air Seychelles offer five weekly flights between Paris and Seychelles.

new flights

Angolan airline, TAAG, has announced the introduction of numerous flights and codeshares, an indication that it is serious about increasing its market share.

The airline confirmed recently that it was undergoing a restructuring programme with the objective of improving its safety standards.

This is to regain access into European airspace, which had been revoked due to safety concerns.

Daily flights into South America will service both Rio de Janeiro and São Paolo. The airline will fly between Luanda and Rio de Janeiro four times a week on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Fridays and Sundays. The Luanda-São Paulo service will operate on Mondays, Wednesdays and Saturdays. TAAG will use a Boeing 747-300 on the route.

The airline will also operate a scheduled service using a B777-200 between Luanda and Beijing. The flight operates on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays, with the return flight on Wednesdays, Fridays and Sundays.

Codeshare agreements with various European airlines will see TAAG selling seats on routes between Luanda and Brussels, Frankfurt, Paris and London. Agreements have been made with Brussels Airlines, Air France, Lufthansa and British Airways.

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Southern African Tourism Update

June 2009

l 11

SA Tourism

SA Tourism

destinationlimpopo

Limpopo

delightful and delicate Limpopo has a lot going on, from new tourism product to a national icon under threat. Sue Lewitton finds out more…

AT RISK… The Mapungubwe National Park’s water sources could be under threat if an open coal mine gets the go-ahead.

Mapungubwe under siege

O

NE OF SA’s most famous World Heritage Sites is under threat, say Limpopo tourism industry stakeholders, as Australianowned Coal of Africa Ltd (CoAL) seeks a mining licence for an 800ha opencast mine and power station just seven kilometres from Mapungubwe National Park.

The area is also part of the proposed Transfrontier Conservation Area covering Botswana, Zimbabwe and South Africa.

It is alleged that the Department of Minerals and Energy (DME) progressed with moves for coal mining without consulting the Department of Environmental Affairs and Tourism.

Tourism product owners in the area are up in arms over the mining application, which they say has the potential to completely destroy tourism in and around the park.

Paul Hatty, Manager of Mopane Bush Lodge in Mapungubwe, says Anglo Coal has also purchased four farms between Mopane and Venetia. “Even with the best environmental

controls, the environmental degradation from mining will kill any hopes of growing tourism and protecting our heritage,” says Hatty.

SANParks Spokesperson, Wanda Mkhutshulwa, says SANParks is currently engaging the DME over its concerns.

DME Spokesperson, Bheki Khumalo says although CoAL has applied for mining rights, it is not a “done deal”. “After all objections have been registered and all concerns considered, the department will make a determination. We are still months away from that.”

www.mashovela.com

Tel 014 763 2193 Fax 014 763 5662  Email Leonard.sole@lephalale.gov.za  Website www.lephalale.com TU0967SD

12 l JUne 2009

TNW1383SD

www.travelhub.co.za

Gorge gliding along the Letaba River

Northern Limpopo in photo display The Limpopo Collection, With wildlife photographer, Heiko Wolf, has launched a book showcasing the northern regions of Limpopo entitled ‘Contours, Colours, Cultures – Unveiling the riches of the Soutpansberg and Limpopo Valley’.

The book covers the area north of Polokwane up to the Vhembe district, starting with the Soutpansberg, through to the Mapungubwe National Park and the northern regions of Kruger National Park, specifically Punda Maria and Pafuri.

Clare Girardin, who heads up the Limpopo Collection, says: “We believe this area is definitely uncharted territory with unbelievable scope for attracting more visitors to the region.”

The book covers arts and heritage, the baobab trees, birding hotspots, botanical diversity, history of the Soutpansberg, natural heritage sites, early cultures, rock art and the various routes on offer.

New look for Makweti Makweti Safari Lodge in the Welgevonden Game Reserve has reopened following a major refurbishment and the construction of several new additions to the property. An open-air reception area has been constructed at the entrance of the camp and safari-style lanterns welome guests returning from night drives. New furnishings include African art and the use of woods, leather and woven textures in the decoration. The five stone and thatched suites now feature Victorian bathrooms and outside showers. Private plunge pools have been constructed on three of the suite decks.

Shiluvari gets holistic

Shiluvari Lakeside Lodge will launch its Earth Sense Holistic Haven in October. The facility is a small retreat overlooking a dam with two small clay and mud thatched buildings where guests can take time to experience some relaxation. Only indigenous ingredients found in the Soutpansberg will be used, such as raw salt from the salt pans and baobab and avocado oils.

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“Arrive as a visitor and leave as a friend”

Canopy Tours, in partnership with Thaba-metsi Adventures has launched the Magoebaskloof Canopy Tour, set within the cliffs of the Letaba River gorge in Limpopo. The tour will see guests gliding along a series of 11 steel cables between platforms set among three waterfalls and a forested gorge.

The canopy tour was constructed by a team drawn from the surrounding local community. Some have since received further skills training that has allowed them to become canopy tour guides.

Kololo puts the spotlight on leopard conservation

Kololo Game Reserve, in Vaalwater, has joined hands with The Leopard Conservation Project, aimed at the conservation of the species. A female leopard was recently released in Kololo and collared for research purposes. She can now be tracked on Google Earth. On appointment, visitors to Kololo will be able to see the leopard at the reserve’s soon to be built boma, where she will be examined regularly and re-released.

New rustic camp at Lapalala

Lapalala Wilderness, a 40 690ha reserve in the Waterberg, has launched a small bush camp, Lookout Camp. It is located on a ridge that overlooks the reserve, which has a variety of game that include black rhino, wild dog and leopard. The camp is tented and situated on wooden platforms.

There is no electricity but hot showers and meals are provided. Activities on offer at Lapalala include Bushman painting and archaeological tours, guided walks, day and night game drives and fishing from September to mid-April for yellowfish and bass.

Euphoria opens Hydro Villas

Euphoria Golf Estate and Hydro in the Waterberg has launched its new Hydro Villa concept with the opening of four private villas fitted with hydrotherapy facilities. These include a sauna, steam room, rain showers, Rasul ‘Love Chamber’, Jacuzzi, fan showers, flotation pool, Vichy shower, and plunge pools. Each treatment is based on a water therapy theme, drawing inspiration from the natural hot spring in the surrounding Waterberg mountains.

The villas can accommodate individuals, couples or groups of six. ■

Set against a backdrop of

Motswari’s Amazing Grace Sharing her delectable Pineapple and Coriander Salad this month is Motswari Head Chef, Grace.

Her grandfather, Prince, was the Head Chef for many years and as a little girl she was drawn naturally to the kitchen. Gradually absorbing his passion and knowledge, Grace joined Motswari in 1997 as a scullery maid and in 2004 was officially made Head Chef. Legendary dishes, such as her Sticky Toffee Bread Pudding with Homemade Ice Cream, are positively famous and there is no doubt a significant part of our guest’s desire to return again and again is because of her memorable meals.

Grace’s Pineapple and Coriander Salad Simply mix together: ● 3 Pineapples peeled and cut into cubes ● 1/2 cup Olive Oil ● Juice of 1 Lemon ● 3 teaspoons Paprika ● 2 teaspoons Fish Spice ● Salt and Pepper ● Handful of chopped fresh Coriander

If we missed you at Indaba please email us for 2010 rates, info and CD

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Southern African Tourism Update

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Tel +27 11 463 1990 Fax +27 11 463 1992 Email: reservations@motswari.co.za Website: www.motswari.co.za TU4622

JUne 2009

l 13

children’sactivities

Many of &Beyond’s lodges welcome children but a few are specially designed to cater for them.

These are Phinda Mountain Lodge, Ngala Safari Lodge, Kirkman’s Kamp, Uplands Homestead, Melton Manor, Ecca Lodge and Madikwe Safari Lodge in South Africa; Sossusvlei Desert Lodge in Namibia; Matsetsi Water Lodge in Zimbabwe; Kichwa Tembo Tented Camp in Kenya and Ngorongoro Crater Lodge in Tanzania.

Kids’ Clubs

& Beyond

&Beyond

How they are kept busy…

Activities include fishing and frogging safaris, bark-rubbing expeditions and lessons in making waxed spoor prints. The chef welcomes assistance in the kitchen baking cookies for afternoon tea, and child minders can be booked in the evenings or during game drives. A specialised children’s menu is available for early sittings with favourites like chicken skewers and ice cream with hot toffee sauce. Inside the boma, children also have their own barbecue for marshmallows.

A little bit extra?

Kids are given a ‘planet-manager backpack’ which contains an eco-guide with tips for spoor and animal identification along with a few other surprises. They are encouraged to complete their eco-guides by collecting pods, feathers, bugs and leaves. At the end of the safari, they are presented with signed certificates from their rangers declaring them official Planet Managers.

ezula Resort Hotel P and Spa Here the emphasis is on getting the kids outdoors to enjoy the natural beauty of the property’s setting. Pezula has a Kiddies’ Club housed in its own building, open from 09h00 until 17h00 daily.

How they are kept busy…

In good weather, children can go to the Field of Dreams to play on obstacle courses, visit the animal touch farm or take rides on a horse and carriage, while the Pezula environmental team will teach them about the local fauna and flora. On beach excursions kids can play ball games, enjoy sandcastlebuilding competitions, fish with nets and paddle in the river mouth. For days when the sun isn’t shining, an indoor entertainment area is available for kids from three years of age, where a child minder will encourage them to make crafts, decorate cakes and play board games. The hotel restaurant, Zachary’s, has a kids’ menu with a range of options including spaghetti bolognaise and cookies and milk.

A little bit extra?

Pezula also caters for kids under the age of three. One-on-one babysitters are available for R75 ($8.90) an hour, for a minimum of three hours at a time.

14 l June 2009

Planet managers... &Beyond offers younger guests backpacks filled with surprises.

Children are catered for at many Southern African properties. Sue Lewitton finds out how some of them are going the extra mile to keep little ones entertained…

Tintswalo Safari Lodge Tintswalo aims to provide a fun and educational perspective of the bush for its younger guests. The cost for the programme is included in the price for Safari Lodge and Presidential guests. Each day’s events are divided into themes and include a talk, game drive and an activity.

How they are kept busy…

The ‘Bush Supermarket and Restaurant’ teaches kids about the vegetation of the area. Younger children collect plant items that can be used

as substitutes for toothbrushes, toilet paper and cups, and older children make collages. In ‘Tracking’, kids are taught the different spoor of animals and tracking techniques. Child minding is available at an additional cost.

A little bit extra?

Each kid is given a ‘Brat Bag’ on arrival, with goodies including pens and pencils, binoculars, a water bottle and an activity workbook. At the end of the trip, they get a certificate declaring them ‘Environmental Marshals’.

Madikwe Collection – Thakadu River Camp and Tuningi Safari Lodge Both properties are located in the malaria-free Madikwe Game Reserve. Some activities, meals and scheduled bumbles are included in the rate, however baby-sitting and certain extra activity kits are extra.

eggs and snake skins and educational talks. In the evenings children can eat dinner in their room or they can have an interactive dinner with a chef and make their own meals.

How they are kept busy…

Children over five can join adults on game drives, while younger children are taken to one of the nearby waterholes, where they tick off things they have seen on their trip. ■

If children don’t go on morning game drives they will be looked after by child minders.

Activities include treasure hunts for nests,

A little bit extra?

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destinationmozambique

Just

cruisin’

The country is benefiting from a surge in arrivals on account of a healthy cruising industry.

Sue Lewitton finds out about this and more…

Boost for cruise tourism

M

OZAMBIQUE IS already a proud host to thousands of cruise tourists each year, but is soon set to receive an even bigger piece of the pie. Starlight Cruises, one of the key cruise operators to the country, will use a bigger ship for its Mozambique cruises for the upcoming season.

Allan Foggitt, MD of Starlight Cruises, says: “With the arrival of the luxury megaship, MSC Sinfonia, in the upcoming season there will be considerable growth in passenger numbers to Mozambique as the ship has 778 cabins and a capacity of 2 200 passengers.

Southern African Tourism Update

“This is a considerable increase over Melody, which has 535 cabins and a capacity of only 1 500 passengers.”

Foggitt says Mozambique is the only viable cruise destination from South African ports on account of its good weather, its islands’ deep anchorage and close proximity for three- or four-night cruises.

However some obstacles still remain – especially in terms of the limited number of cruise destinations that are viable in Mozambique.

Foggitt says Maputo, Barra Lodge and Bazaruto are the only destinations where sea conditions, depth and distances work.

Starlight is considering Beira as a future

destination but at this stage, infrastructure is not in place to cater for cruise tourists.

Barra Resorts in Mozambique has recognised the potential of the lucrative cruise market and has opened up Barra Lodge and Flamingo Bay to cruise tourists for day trips.

Tony Birkholtz, Marketing Manager for Barra Resorts, believes there is still room for growth.

“The cruise industry requires support from lodges like ourselves as we have taken this opportunity to expand our own facilities to cater for these guests,” he adds.

June 2009

l 15

destinationmozambique Thompsons Touring & Safaris

New activities and food at Ibo Island IBO ISLAND Lodge in the Quirimbas Archipelago, has increased its portfolio of special-interest activities by introducing a birders’ programme as well a mobile islandhopping dhow and sea kayak safaris.

In other news, the culinary team at Ibo Island were recently trained by a South African chef. Fiona Record, Owner of the lodge, says this was due to its ambition to incorporate natural produce and traditional ingredients from Ibo Island into its menus.

ALTERNATIVE TRANSPORT… The Maputo Express offers a flexible hop-on, hop-off facility.

Thompsons introduces train tours THOMPSONS TOURING & Safaris will now offer train tours on The Maputo Express to its guests, with a flexible hop-on, hop-off facility.

The train travels through Maputo throughout the day and is fitted with a PA system and guided by staff who educate guests on the city’s Portuguese colonial past and present-day African ambience. Guests can stop off at museums and markets along the way and spend all day there if they please, or move around from place to place. There is also the option of remaining on the train for the duration of its 90-minute round trip. The Maputo Express departs Maputo station daily, every two hours between 09h00 and 15h00.

Don’t miss the dugongs THE ELUSIVE dugong has been sighted at Indigo Bay Island Resort and Spa several times in the past few months.

Dugongs are one of the most endangered large mammals in Africa as a result of hunting and accidental entanglement in fishing nets. An estimated 104 dugongs remain in the area surrounding the Bazaruto Archipelago. Families with young children at Indigo Bay receive a soft dugong toy in their arrival pack to promote awareness of this endangered creature.

Azura all set for July re-launch AZURA in Mozambique will re-launch next month, following a bush fire late last year that completely destroyed the property.

The design and style of the retreat will not be altered drastically, but a presidential villa will be added. The villa will have a 16m infinity swimming pool, sitting room with fireplace, dining area, wine bar, tree-house lounge, private kitchen with dedicated chef and a private beach area.

The villa will have three bedrooms, with the master on a split level with a freeform bath and shower. Another new addition following the re-launch, will be a two-bedroomed villa, called Villa Amizade, with a 10m swimming pool, dining area, sitting room and wine bar. The villa has been designed with families and groups in mind.

Marlin Lodge gets own reef MARLIN LODGE on the southwest shore of Benguerra Island, has established an artificial reef close to the lodge.

The structure now provides shelter for marine life and a substrate to promote coral growth. New residents include a honeycomb stingray, a turtle, additional crocodile fish, shoals of pelagic fish and a brindle bass.

These shallow reefs also provide an opportunity to view smaller creatures, such as the Harlequin shrimp.

16 l June 2009

Quilálea closes for refurbishment Quilálea in the Quirimbas Archipelago has changed ownership and is currently undergoing an extensive refurbishment. When it reopens it will be sold on an exclusive-use basis only.

Bookings open at Lugenda

Rani Resorts’ Lugenda Wilderness Camp is now open for bookings. The camp is located in the Niassa Reserve, which is twice the size of the Kruger National Park and has the greatest concentration of game in Mozambique. From July 1, guests can also experience the Moja Safari, which incorporates mokoro excursions in the reserve.

Conference packages for Pemba Pemba Beach Hotel and Spa is offering all incentive groups travelling to Pemba until the end of October a complimentary beach barbecue. This traditional dinner is hosted on the beach outside Clube Naval and is valued at US$45pp. It includes a variety of fish, prawns, crab and lobster grilled on an open fire, but excludes beverages and entertainment. ■

DOWN DEEP...The coast off Marlin Lodge is home to many new residents. www.travelhub.co.za

TU1385SD

Bushveld

FLYING HIGH… Pinnacle Point offers its guests an exclusive ‘heli-golf’ experience.

Southern Africa is upping its game when it comes to golf. Kate Els finds out more…

Embrace innovation to keep afloat

G

olf tourism has always been popular in Southern Africa and recent years have seen increased activity in the development of both golf courses and surrounding real estate and retail opportunities.

This has led to an increase in tour operators specialising in golf tourism and numerous others adding golf to the range of specialities they offer clients.

Held in March this year, the fourth annual South Africa Golf Summit discussed the opportunities available in golf, despite facing tough times economically.

High on the agenda was the call for more affordable golf, easier and shorter courses, and ‘pay-and-play’ access to private golf courses – all in an effort to keep a traditionally costly industry afloat in financially difficult times.

“Organisations that welcome change,

18 l JUNE 2009

value flexibility, embrace innovation and do small things better, are the ones that will consistently improve despite hard times.

Positive vision, supported by leadership and action as well as ruthless self-assessment, will be essential,” said former Director General of Tourism Ireland, Matt McNulty, who was responsible for increasing Ireland’s tourism economy by 300 per cent, mainly as a result of golf tourism marketing.

He also suggested exploration of new markets, better use of the Internet for sales, and consistent, focused overseas campaigns to draw a stronger international market.

With the increased popularity of the sport came the need to develop a directory for those interested in golfing holidays around the country. The recently founded umbrella body, Business of Golf South Africa (BOGSA), has said it plans to release a South African Golf and Leisure Vacations Guide as part of its manifesto of activities.

Water hazards Africa style!

As well as the unique landscapes, the allure of Southern African golf courses can also be attributed to the surprising wildlife some courses are home to. The Elephant Hills golf course near the Victoria Falls has water hazards with crocodiles.

Elephant Hills

Pinnacle Point Group

golf

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Euphoria opens mountain cableway EUPHORIA Golf Estate and Hydro in South Africa’s Limpopo province, has launched a new cableway linking the property’s clubhouse and golf course to the rim of the Waterberg mountain range. The cableway’s system was designed by the group that designed the Table Mountain Aerial Cableway in the Western Cape.

The two cabins are able to carry eight people each, transporting 240 people an hour over a distance of 453m. The speed of the cableway varies from slow for a vista-viewing experience to a quick transfer of visitors to the sundowner deck at the top of the mountain.

Golf Hall of Fame to attract tourists

A LONG WAY DOWN… The Africa-shaped green from the tee of Legend’s Extreme 19th.

Legend opens Extreme 19th Legend Golf & Safari Resort at the Big 5 Entabeni Safari Conservancy in the Waterberg has opened its signature golf course with its Extreme 19th hole.

It is played off a cliff to an Africa-shaped green some 400 metres below. The tee-off for the hole is only accessible by helicopter and is the longest par-3 in the world.

Pinnacle Point offers heli-golf The Pinnacle Point Group (PPG) now offers golfers an exciting new experience, ‘heli-golf’. Golfers can enjoy a round trip from Cape Town International Airport on a scenic journey along the Cape coastline to the group’s resort, Pinnacle Point Beach and Golf Resort near Mossel Bay. Dave McGregor, Group Executive for Sales and Marketing at PPG, says ‘heli-golf’ has already become a popular mode of transport for discerning golfers travelling throughout Europe and the States, and SA is catching on.

He adds: “For now the service will transport golfers from Cape Town International Airport to the resort but we hope to extend the service to golfers travelling between our golf courses, hotels and airports or whatever route the client may choose.”

McGregor also points out that golfers will benefit from a preround flyover to get a feel of the course from a different elevation.

Situated at the Oubaai Golf Estate near George in the Western Cape, the Southern African Golf Hall of Fame is set to pull in tourists interested in the sport.

A museum component will house golf memorabilia, a library, retail store and putting green. Barry Cohen, CEO, says the initiative will safeguard past history and build a legacy for golf. The Golf Hall of Fame will open in December.

Simola temporarily closes course Simola Golf & Country Estate has temporarily closed its golf course in order to reseed the greens and construct new tee boxes.

“The greens had a problem and a decision was taken to close and redo the entire 18 greens.

“By mid August the Jack Nicklaus Signature course will have brand new greens and will be ready to welcome back all its members and visitors,” said the property. ■

Annika Sorenstam Signature Golf Course

Amabokoboko Golf changes name After being in the golf travel market for nearly five years, Amabokoboko Golf Tours is to change its name to Fairfield Golf Travel. In addition, with the Fairfield Group, Fairfield Golf Travel is launching a web-based B2B tour operator system to offer a full service that will allow operators to book accommodation, car hire and travel packages direct.

Green conferencing at Fancourt Fancourt has launched an extensive ‘Green Conference’ package. Clients will be offered a more affordable ‘green’ option including a list of environmentally friendly measures.

These include paper recycling bins at venues, offering a bus service to discourage individual car trips, offering prizes for ecofriendly exhibitions, and paperless reservation, registration and communication methods.

Southern African Tourism Update

TU1359SD

June 2009

l 19

A well-rounded coastal destination

P

ezula Resort, situated along South Africa’s Garden Route in the Western Cape, opened in 2005 ushering in a new level of opulence for the country.

It not only offers exclusive accommodation and a top-notch spa, but also has a championship golf course with outstanding stretches of coastline.

The hotel’s 78 suites in free-standing twotiered villas are linked by short landscaped pathways to the nearby main building and accessed on foot or by battery-operated golf carts. Suites feature a private balcony or patio, a log fireplace and walk-in wardrobe.

The two presidential suites, Kufara and Mufaro, both have a generous 137 sqm of space and include the services of a dedicated butler. Both suites offer views of the ocean and golf course.

For clients looking for ultra-luxurious accommodation, Pezula Private Castle, built into the cliff face on Noetzie Beach, offers direct beach access, huge luxurious suites with private terraces, and personal service from an executive butler and private chef.

Pezula will charter a jet for guests travelling from any destination in the world. Flights land at Plettenberg Bay private airport, a short

PEZULA RESORT HOTEL & SPA

profilepezula

PRIME SPOT… An aerial view of Pezula and its surrounds.

15-minute transfer by helicopter from the resort's landing pad.

The restaurant, Zachary’s, has seasonal menus with vegetables, fruit and herbs from the hotel’s organic gardens. Zachary's Menu Gourmand is a special chef's tasting menu served with the option of a specially selected wine with each course. It is available on Friday evenings, but booking is essential.

Pezula Championship Golf Course, is an award-winning 18-hole course designed by David Dale and Ronald Fream of GolfPlan USA. The Clubhouse facilities include a restaurant, bar, golf shop, practice area and putting green. The Shareholders' Lounge has a library, private lounge, dining area and bar.

Golf carts are obligatory and are equipped with GPS and computerised scoring. ■

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www.travelhub.co.za

romanticgetaways Cape town tourism

Romance

on a budget

South Africa has increased in popularity as a wedding destination and offers great value for money for international guests…

W

hether it’s at the top of Table Mountain or in the seclusion of the Drakensberg, saying ‘I do’ in Africa can be a very special occasion for international wedding parties who have escaped to Southern Africa for their big day.

With an increase in the number of international weddings occurring on our shores, event organisers and tour operators have no other option but to be more innovative and creative in a competitive market.

Says Kirsty Marmarellis, Owner of Weddings out of Africa, the increase of weddings on South African soil can be attributed to the low overall cost of a ceremony and reception in the region compared with that of a visitor’s home country. She says there are many important Southern African Tourism Update

factors when considering a marriage in South Africa but naturally budget governs the couple’s final choice. “The cost plays a big role in the planning of a wedding but since it is relatively cheap to get married here, couples can do it in the most memorable and beautiful setting they can think of.”

Pam Black, Owner of Cape Town’s Celebration House, says luxury weddings are made affordable in South Africa. “The average wedding in the UK costs between £18 000 and £25 000 (approximately R252 000 to R350 000). By marrying in SA, the savings are enormous and couples can afford luxury weddings. “An average wedding in South Africa costs in the region of R80 000.”

Black adds that weddings can contribute to tourism in South Africa. “In addition to the numerous couples from foreign countries who marry here, many of the 500 000 young South Africans currently living

in the UK return to South Africa for their weddings. Since they often marry someone from another country, they tend to bring a number of overseas guests with them for the occasion.”

Marrilyn Strydom, Sales Manager of The Travelling Bride, concurs, adding that elopements are becoming quite trendy with international brides and, as a result, the company has added packages that suit this niche market.

“We have introduced the ‘elope’ wedding packages in South Africa and based on the bridal couple, they’re all way under R20 000 (€1 777) for a full wedding.

“These packages include a few nights’ honeymoon, minister, legalities, bridal bouquet, musician, decorated area (beach, bush, mountain, forest, river), photographer, champagne toast, bridal make-up, hair stylist and romantic dinner with bubbly afterwards.”

June 2009

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Islands in africa

romanticgetaways

Up, up and away Bill Harrop’s “Original” Balloon Safaris offers a special package for weddings that sees the couple tie the knot while in the air at dawn.

The fleet of balloons can cater for intimate weddings or larger parties.

The Clubhouse Pavilion and Restaurant provide the perfect setting for a reception.

Thompsons Africa launches Table Mountain and Boulders Beach Weddings

Thompsons Africa is now offering weddings with a difference. Table Mountain and Simon’s Town’s Boulders Beach, home to a growing colony of vulnerable African penguins, are the exciting venues for its new unique and comprehensive wedding packages.

Both package options include full wedding co-ordination services, minister, legal and administration fees, marriage licence and certificate, entrance fees, champagne, bridal bouquet and groom’s buttonhole, as well as Mercedes chauffeur-driven vehicle transfers.

Also included are 150 photographs in an album and on CD. “We are constantly looking for innovative product and ideas and are extremely pleased with these exciting new wedding options. We do, of course, have a number of other wedding options available for the less adventurous,” says Sally Gray, General Manager – Sales.

Winter special at Twelve Apostles Hotel and Spa

This renowned five-star hotel in the Western Cape is now offering a special winter package from as little as R995pppn (€88), valid until the end of September, for those looking for luxurious accommodation in one of South Africa’s most romantic locations.

Exclusive-use island for couples Islands in Africa’s Ntwala Island Lodge now provides the ultimate in seclusion for couples looking for privacy.

“Guests are given the opportunity to book out the entire island at a special rate, so honeymooners can be assured of having the entire island to themselves.” The lodge has just four private suites, each with private plunge pool, private deck and giant bathtubs that seat two.

Safari weddings gain popularity Safari-style weddings and honeymoons in Africa are gaining in popularity, says luxury portfolio collection, Islands in Africa.

“Namibia is one of the African destinations that is garnering the most attention as a honeymoon destination, especially among Americans and Europeans, as it offers a diversity of attractions and a variety of exquisite locations that can be incredibly romantic.” Further, those who wish to get married on safari can do so with ease, it says, as matrimony regulations for foreigners are very relaxed in the country.

Celebration House assists couples Situated near Cape Town’s city centre, Celebration House assist couples with their wedding plans, offering the services of registered venues, photographers, caterers and musicians, among others. All their suggested suppliers are registered with the Wedding and Honeymoon Association of South Africa. To find out more about Celebration House visit www.celebrationhouse.co.za. ■

d’s top destinations by discerning travelers’

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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.

Sabi Sabi Private Game Reserve P.O Box 52665, Saxonwold, 2132 South Africa

4 Jameson Avenue, Melrose Estate, 2196 Tel: +27 11 447 7172 Fax: +27 11 442 0728 E-mail: res@sabisabi.com www.sabisabi.com

‘Consistently voted one of the world’s top destinations by discerning travelers’ ‘Consistently voted one of the world’s top destinations by discerning travellers’

22 l June 2009

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mooreontourism

fromsatsa

our expert traveller shares her views on tourism

Indaba report

Responsible tourism – the other side

I

It is possible that this is the only meal that many of these children get.

N line with a move towards greening businesses, a lot of tourism products in South Africa are focusing on ‘responsible tourism’ by paying attention to recycling, saving electricity and using local materials for building and local people for staff. Often they support local micro-businesses, like traditional dancers or vegetable growers. It might be more trouble than dealing with a monolith, but fits in with the philosophy of ‘tourism doing good’.

Another area where a lot of lodges and hotels help out is by adopting a local school. Despite the fact that South Africa has one of the highest governmental budgets per capita for education in the world, there are still too many schools in desperate need of help.

Ghost Mountain Inn, at Mkhuze in Zululand on the N2 highway that links Mpumalanga and KwaZulu Natal, is one of these benefactors. A family-run hotel, it is very much rooted in its community. Employees of the hotel – culled from the local population – often work their way up into positions of influence, sometimes leaving to start their own businesses, with the hotel as their main client. The hotel makes a point of running tours that feature the unvarnished traditional rural experience.

One of the hotel’s beneficiaries is Mtwazi School. It is a ‘Combined’ school, teaching children from pre-primary all the way to matric. At first glance it is not exactly prepossessing: there are no manicured lawns, reception offices, flowerbeds or sports fields. Instead, there is a large expanse of bare ground and some neat and simple cider-block classrooms.

There are no sporting facilities – yet. There is no science lab or home economics room. There is also no real staff-room for teachers and only a row of chemical toilets against one wall for 800 pupils. But all of these are on the list for future projects.

The hotel, along with other businesses, has introduced a feeding scheme for the smaller children and serves more than 300 meals a day from a shed stacked with huge cooking pots and gas burners. It is possible that this is the only meal that many of these children get.

Everything at the school is a combination of donations from business and farmers, sweat equity from students, their parents and teachers, and sterling dedication from staff. There is no local accommodation for teachers and therefore several of them commute from Richards Bay – a distance of more than 100km – to school every day. There is almost none of your standard school equipment, sports gear, or teachers’ comforts. This really is schooling in the raw, and yet this school obtains an almost perfect pass rate every year.

Parents from all over the area jostle to get their children into this school because of the high standard of education. But the real anomaly is that, apart from teachers’ salaries, this school receives no money from the government to repair broken windows, supply teaching equipment, maintain a vegetable garden or anything else.

There are many tourism businesses in South Africa that sincerely help their surrounding communities when the government has failed to do its job. This is the concept of responsible tourism at its finest. Perhaps, when planning your next client’s trip, look for lodges and hotels that genuinely take part in the well-being of their community (not just skin-deep ‘eco-tourism’ for the sole purpose of marketing). Their tourism dollar will never ever be better spent.

Indaba has come and gone for another year.

At first glance it was a quieter show than in recent boom years, but many of us went with rather low expectations in view of the current world economic crisis. It’s pleasing to note that in most cases these expectations were exceeded.

There may have been fewer overseas buyers, but those buyers were top-notch.

There’s good and bad in that, because top players in the overseas industry had to negotiate hard to maintain their discounts with fewer passengers.

Another positive outcome was that, as Zimbabwe staggers towards some kind of normalising of its society, there was much more interest in that part of the world, and Victoria Falls is now firmly back on Southern Africa itineraries.

With artificial barriers to air travel to this part of the world falling fast, we have a much better idea of the real interest that’s being shown in Southern Africa. Tourism statistics are now more difficult to analyse than ever, with the new system being introduced by Stats SA not being compatible with the old, but from 2009, we should have a much better picture of the REAL inbound tourism numbers. And once the numbers crunched for the Tourism Satellite Account have been simplified for consumption by the tourism industry, we should be able to make more accurate forecasts.

SATSA was delighted to see so many of its members among the Welcome Award winners, and congratulates Karkloof Lodge and Spa; Specialised African Tour Services and Ilios Travel; SAB World of Beer; Mokala National Park and City Lodge Group on their success.

Eteya Winner, City of Choice Travel Tours was mentored by Simon Ruscoe, a SATSA stalwart for many years, and we congratulate them, too, on their success.

For more information contact: Marjorie Dean Tel: +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 Avenue Ferndale Postal Address: PO Box 900 Ferndale, 2160

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RAND COACH TOURS & CHARTERS ● Coach Charter specialist ● Tour Operators - Complete ground

handling service.

- Scheduled tours ● F.I.T. arrangements Reservations: Tel: +27-11 674 1818/9/20 Fax: +27-11 674 1827

e-mail: info@randcoach.co.za

24 l June 2009

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edding ishes lead quickly to the Cradle

Whilst weddings are often the first step towards a new family addition who may start out in life sleeping in a cradle, the Cradle is relevant even before the wedding.

For the Cradle of Humankind abounds with several of Gauteng’s finest wedding venues, as it ideally located for couples who don’t want their big day in the middle of the big smoke, but don’t want to travel too far from the city either. The area quite literally abounds with a host of really top class wedding venues to make the big day when you tie the not a completely memorable occasion.

Avianto calls itself “a village made in heaven” and features superb spaces in Mediterranean style architecture. The banqueting hall, ballroom, fireside room and amphitheatre are perfectly appointed and it also features a series of attractive gardens and scenic bridges straddling the Crocodile River. A few kilometres north of Muldersdrift it is one of the most accessible places with rural scenery. Write to info@avianto.co.za or phone 011 668 3000 for further details.

Another fine alternative also in the Muldersdrift area is the Hakunamata Estate and Health Spa. Sophisticated facilities for weddings will allow you to enjoy your ceremony in the lush gardens or one of the halls if the weather is not favourable. There are four romantic reception areas to chose from including the sky dining deck area. 50- 450 guests can be accommodated.

Phone 011 794 2630 or e-mail hakunamatata@gem.co.za for further details.

Valverde Country Hotel is another alternative, for intimate functions for 20-200 guests. Chapel or garden weddings are avaialable at very reasonable rates. E-mail info@valverde.co.za or phone 072 587 0361 for further information.

Westgrove is another small weddings and functions venue with a cosy chapel and attractive garden settings. Call 082 774 7729 or e-mail westgrove@nashuaisp.co.za for more.

The Cradle of Humankind World Heritage Site is a tourism destination that features many more suitable locations for weddings and functions. It extends from Lanseria to Oaktree to Hekpoort (all in Gauteng) to Broederstroom in the North West Province. There are a total of 440 tourism offerings in the broader tourism catchment area, which received World Heritage Site status in 1999 on account of the superb record of human ancestors and their relatives preserved in the fossil record. All people alive today ultimately originated from Africa. So choosing a venue in the Cradle of Humankind World Heritage Site destination is a superb way of recognising your debt to the past.

Getting married and planning to produce an occupant for a small cradle in your own house is a strong way of expressing your confidence in the future.

The Cradle of Humankind has been described as “the destination of the decade”. We have been waiting for you for four million years. What are you waiting for?

94.7 Christmas Wish comes true at Avianto The journey with Amanda and Jaques started in December 2008 when Avianto received a call from the 94.7 Christmas Wish List team. The radio station had been made aware of a special couple, a couple that were meant for each other and who were dreaming of a fairytale wedding.

The story unfolded - listeners heard that Jacques was diagnosed with cancer four years ago at the age of 24. He had fought the disease with everything he had, and after months of chemo, hundreds of injections, endless days of nausea and trips to the hospital, he received the news that the cancer was in remission.

On the 19th March the couple got married. Jacques is in remission and looked dashing alongside his best men, all dressed in white sailor suites. Amanda in her beautiful dress was everything a bride should be and more. After an emotional ceremony in Avianto’s Amphitheatre, this fairytale also ended exceptionally happily.

A lavish reception was enjoyed by all whilst bride and groom along with family and friends celebrated till the early hours of the morning. The couple is currently on Honeymoon on a cruise sponsored by Starlight Cruises. The perfect ending... or shall we say beginning?

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