Conven Southern Africa 2018

CONVEN CO N FE R E N C E V EN U E S SO U TH E R N A F R I C A

2018

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Conference Venues Southern Africa - Conven

@ConvenSA

CONTENTS

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Conference Venues Southern Africa 2018

CONTENTS

CONVEN 2018 CONFE R E NCE V ENUE S SOUTHE R N A FR I C A

NORTH WEST

ON THE AGENDA Business events are change agents..... 7

Breakout of the boardroom..............33

How to plan a successful conference..............................................8

Meet the People of the Hippo......... 34

Business travellers’ guide to good sleep..............................................11 Africa’s new tourism trend.................12

KWAZULU-NATAL P14

A North Coast gem........................... 38

WESTERN CAPE

LIMPOPO

A venue with a view .............15

Make work feel like a holiday............41

Conscious conferencing in the winelands................ 16

SOUTH AFRICA and beyond

A world-class convention centre.......... 18 How Cape Town held back Day Zero.............. 20

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GAUTENG

Conference, stay and play with Tsogo Sun....................................42

VENUES INDEX

Stay connected at Hotel 224........................23

SOUTH AFRICA AND BEYOND Dream Hotels and Resorts...................... 44 Legend Hospitality Group.......................10 Tsogo Sun................................................... 43

Your home away from home.......................24 Summer in the city.........26 A Joburg paradise............28

Majestic Midlands...............................37

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Top hospitality trends for 2018.....................29 Take a walk on the wild side.................................. 30

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WESTERN CAPE Cape Town International Convention Centre...........................................................19 Spier..............................................................17 Two Oceans Aquarium............................. 15 GAUTENG Centurion Hotel........................................ 25 The Forum Company..................................5 Hotel 224.................................................... 23 Lion and Safari Park................................... 31 Protea Hotel Marriot Balalaika Sandton..................................... 28 Summer Place............................................ 27 KWAZULU-NATAL Fairmont Zimbali Resort..........................39 Fordoun Hotel and Spa........................... 37 NORTH WEST Legacy Hotels and Resorts Bakubung.35

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LIMPOPO Monate Game Lodge................................ 41

Conference Venues Southern Africa 2018

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THE TEAM

WELCOME

Time to think

out of the boardroom

EDITOR Varushka Padayachi Tel: +27 (0)11 713 9010 Email: varushka.padayachi@newmediapub.co.za

The Meetings, Incentives, Conferences and Events (MICE) sector is booming in South Africa. Business travellers make up six to seven percent of South Africa’s annual visitors and the business events industry currently sustains about 200 000 jobs. Aside from the economic impact the MICE sector has, the industry has also made many positive social impacts in Africa.

As Meetings Africa exhibited, the MICE industry has enhanced the collaboration between African countries and associations. Each country has its own strengths and attractions, but one thing’s for sure – Africa boasts top-notch conferencing facilities with many attractions and excellent accommodation options.

A recent study conducted by Grant Thornton and commissioned by the Association of southern African Travel Agents, found that South Africa’s travel sector has achieved meaningful transformation across all levels. One of the highlights is 55 percent of all travel enterprises with a B-BBEE certificate have achieved a B-BBEE status at level 1 or 2 and on average all travel enterprises have 40 percent black and 25 percent black female ownership. There are huge opportunities for small and medium enterprises in this sector, due to both parastatal support as well as the innovative minds of the entrepreneurs themselves.

The concept of meetings and conferences is changing and events managers and conference planners are doing a great job of keeping up. The classic idea of the meeting room, with a full-day’s worth of speakers and a break for tea and finger sandwiches is dying out.

Conference-goers are more interested in

ADVERTISING Charlene Goncalves Tel +27 82 873 2687 Email: Charlene.Goncalves@newmediapub.co.za

www.conven.co.za

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Conference Venues Southern Africa 2018

who the speakers are - they are not just looking for traditionally business-minded speakers but also want perspectives on lifestyle, motivation, alternative business practices, disruptive technology and healthy living. Conference guests are now conscious of how sustainable and socially active a venue is – do they implement water-saving technology? Do they employ members of the local community? We’re also seeing conferences and meetings moving out of the boardroom and into the great outdoors. It has become more important than ever to look for venues with added value for the business traveller – whether it’s great golfing facilities, a state-of-the-art gym or a sunset game drive to end a full-day conference.

Taking your conference out of the boardroom is not just a fun activity to keep guests entertained. There are a lot of benefits to outdoor conferencing activities and teambuilding for the company itself.

Getting to know someone outside of the office gives a new dimension to the business relationship. When colleagues are in a relaxed environment away from the traditional conference setting stronger bonds are formed and people learn how to navigate each other’s personalities and work ethic.

I hope you enjoy the 2018 edition of Conven where you can find more information on growth in the MICE industry and new conference trends that are changing the industry. As always we’ve also provided you with a handy guide to conference venues in southern Africa.

Happy conferencing for 2018!

Kind regards, Varushka

@ConvenSA

PUBLISHING TEAM GENERAL MANAGER: Dev Naidoo PUBLISHING MANAGER: Natalie da Silva PRODUCTION CONTROLLER: Rae Morrison Email: rae.morrison@newmediapub.co.za ART DIRECTOR: David Kyslinger LAYOUT & DESIGN: Kyle Martin ONLINE TEAM WEBSITE ADMINISTRATOR: Marisa Kruger ADDRESS JOHANNESBURG OFFICE Ground floor, Media Park, 69 Kingsway Avenue, Auckland Park, 2092 Postal Address: PO Box 784698, Sandton, Johannesburg, 2146 Tel: +27 (0)11 877 6111 Fax: +27 (0)11 877 6198 PRINTING Printed & bound by CTP Printers - Cape Town Published on behalf of Media24 Magazines

by New Media Publishing (Pty) Ltd MANAGING DIRECTOR: Aileen Lamb CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER: Bridget McCarney EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR: John Psillos NON EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR: Irna van Zyl Head Office: New Media House, 19 Bree Street, Cape Town, 8001 Postal Address: PO Box 440, Green Point, Cape Town, 8051 Tel: +27 (0)21 417 1111 Fax: +27 (0)21 417 1112

Conference Venues Southern Africa - Conven

ON THE

AGENDA 6

Conference Venues Southern Africa 2018

ON THE AGENDA

Business events are change agents, not travel agents With renewed governmental interest and riding high from the success of Meetings Africa 2018, the South African tourism industry is set to experience huge growth in the year ahead.

One of the biggest messages to come from the Meetings Africa 2018 exhibition is that business events are change agents, not travel agents.

M

eetings Africa 2018 attracted almost 3 000 delegates who came to seal business deals, explore African products and forge new networks in the international meetings sphere.

The 306 business tourism exhibitors at the event represented 21 African countries, with 65 of these exhibitors coming from outside of South Africa. The show also attracted 154 business and trade media representatives from across the continent and globe.

Now in its 13th year, Meetings Africa’s goal is to connect buyers and sellers in the meetings, incentives, conventions and exhibitions (MICE) industry with each other. The 2018 show had 420 buyers (hosted and non-hosted) from 45 countries in attendance.

JOB CREATION More than 6 400 business meetings were confirmed for the show, a 30 percent increase over the previous year’s figure.

This, remarked Sisa Ntshona, South African Tourism’s chief executive officer, was a great indicator of the interest in hosting business events on the continent.

With business events sustaining over 200 000 jobs and the meetings sector alone contributing R115 billion to South Africa’s gross domestic product, the sector has been identified as key to the country’s and the continent’s tourism growth.

‘Growth is what we are looking for, but there is a bigger context to growth, which needs to take into account factors such as sustainability and inclusive economic transformation that harnesses the power of small business operators in this sector as well as the traditional big convention centre products,’ Ntshona notes.

insights on accessing the global MICE market and its shared economic opportunities, and were also given an opportunity to exhibit at the show. In addition, there was a strong focus on water-wise tourism at the trade show, encouraging more responsible tourism, a practice that ties in aptly with Meetings Africa being a sustainable show.

‘The meetings industry’s contribution to jobs and GDP is not just a South African story but an African one too,’ says Amanda Kotzé-Nhlapo, chief convention bureau officer of the South African? National Convention Bureau.

‘To advance this sector, the Meetings Africa event is geared to also enhance the collaboration between African countries and African associations so as to create more shared economic benefits for the continent’s MICE sector.’

Senthil Gopinath, Middle East and Africa regional director at the International Congress and Convention Association (ICCA), who attended the exhibition, agrees: ‘It is about co-operating first and then competing. This makes the African industry stronger and better, with an increased economic impact.’

During South Africa’s State of the Nation address, South African President Cyril Ramaphosa articulated strong political support for the tourism sector, and this was backed up with an increased allocation for destination marketing in the 2018-2019 budget.

Ntshona says following the success of Meetings Africa 2018 and the renewed political support for the sector, the future for business events and leisure tourism in the country, and indeed on the continent, is looking bright. •

WATER-WISE TOURISM In support of this, 15 South African small businesses from across the country, through the Tourism Incentive Programme (TIP), received bespoke training and Sisa Ntshona, CEO of South African Tourism addresses guests at Meetings Africa 2018

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ON THE AGENDA

Best laid plans –

how to plan a successful conference Organising a successful conference is not quite as easy as it may sound. There are so many things to take into consideration from the venue, to the food, speakers and décor. Heinrich Oberholzer, food and beverage manager at The Michelangelo Hotel, gives his tips on how to plan a great conference.

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he very first thing you should look at, right at the beginning of the planning process, is what exactly you want to achieve with the conference. Consider whom your event would be suited to, the branding that needs to be incorporated and the message that you would like your attendees to take home.

LOOK AND FEEL The look and feel of the event is also highly important as it sets the scene for the conference. A modern theme gives a different impression to Renaissance décor.

This all tells the story of your conference and that’s a story that your delegates will take home with them.

Once you know what you want, other elements such as themes, colours, the right kind of layout and venue are easier to identify and put in place. Knowing what you want, and what you’d like to achieve with an event, will help the staff at the venue match your needs and support you in making the event as great as possible.

What some organisers miss in planning their event are the little details: the lighting, the table cloths and even the sweets on the table. Most people attending conferences spend around six hours in the same room and, as concentration dwindles, they get distracted and start noticing the stitching on table cloths are fraying or the dust on the windowsill. It may not seem much, but small things like this can shift someone’s opinion of your event.

FOOD FOR THOUGHT The food is almost as important as the conference itself. If you’re putting sweets on the tables, it’s a better idea to go for ones that are not crunchy nor have papers that rustle as this will distract other conference guests.

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Conference Venues Southern Africa 2018

Timing of the service of the food and snacks needs to be well worked out and you have to think about what you’d like to serve, particularly at lunch time. A heavy lunch will make delegates tired and distracted for the afternoon sessions. The big trend for conference lunches at the moment is to make sure there are more healthy options and special selections for people with specific dietary requirements.

TECHNICAL EQUIPMENT Most, if not all, conferences have audio visual requirements. Slides, presentations, graphics, videos, PA systems – these are all part of the conference make up.

Before you book a venue, make sure it can accommodate what you need in terms of tech. Most facilities will have the basics and can hire in the specialised equipment on request.

ON THE AGENDA

Prior to your conference, any technical equipment needs to be tested to not only ensure the equipment works properly but also that the presenters or organisers are familiar with how they work. This helps the event move smoothly.

BUDGET When it comes to planning, set a realistic budget. Everything that goes

into a conference is going to cost you some money and each item from invites to speakers to the venue need to be carefully considered.

Don’t be afraid to ask venues if they are able to be flexible with their pricing. Most venues are able to provide excellent service and fantastic food that will fit your budget – you just need to negotiate.

The best conferences are those that remain in the mind of the attendee for a long time after. Every element of the process is significant and is something the delegates will take away after the event. If you start mindfully, you’ll be able to organise a mindful conference, which ultimately will be one that stays in minds of the attendees. •

“Before you book a venue, make sure

it can accommodate what you need in terms of tech. Most facilities will have the basics and can hire in the specialised equipment on request.”

Conference Venues Southern Africa 2018

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ON THE AGENDA

The business travellers’

guide to good sleep Travelling for business can seem fun and glamorous. Indeed, all those different cities, fancy restaurants and pristine conference settings but the reality is – time zones interfere with your routine, your diet and often prove to be a sleep deprivation nightmare.

I

t’s so important to get a good sleep, especially while away on business.

Dr Darren Green, multimedia medical doctor and neuro-wellness corporate speaker explains: ‘Good quality sleep has finally taken its rightful place on the health throne as current evidence shows this is one of the most powerful wellness interventions of the modern era. Finally, we now understand the integral role sleep plays in brain performance and in the more sophisticated fields of creativity, innovation and problem-solving.’

GOOD SLEEP PROGRAMME Dr Green says getting enough sleep every night is crucial to operating optimally, whether travelling for business or not. He says on average, the body needs to get in about seven to nine hours of sleep per night in order to feel wellrested the next day. And since a proper sleep cycle is 90-minutes long; the body needs around four to five sleep cycles a night to make up that seven to nine hour sleep ratio.

But with an often jam-packed schedule, how do business travellers maintain a routine while travelling, factoring in a good sleep programme, as well as a healthy diet and training schedule?

GRAB YOUR GOODIES If it makes life easier at home remember to also pack those practical living elements for your trip. If you use them, remember to pack: • Chronic medication • Antihistamines • Nasal and throat spray • Asthma pump.

PLAN, PLAN, PLAN Planning for bed is as important as planning for a meeting or a day at the office. Always ensure all sleep elements are in place before bed to ensure maximum comfort and ease:

“Getting enough sleep

every night is crucial to operating optimally, whether travelling for business or not.”

• Eat a healthy, small, well-balanced meal three hours before bed • Set your alarm on the multiples of 1.5-hour segments – it helps the body to wake up and adjust to the new day • Make use of eye masks if outside light is a problem • Set the room air conditioner to a medium temperature – not too hot or too cold.

SLEEP SOUNDLY RITUALS Sleep rituals go hand-in-hand with before-bed planning, but these are especially important. Dr Green says before-bed traditions are instrumental to help you relax and wind down, which helps with a good night’s rest. He suggests the following: • A cup of chamomile tea • A few drops of lavender oil on the pillow.

SLEEP STUFF MATTERS Sleep utensils definitely contribute positively to a restful night’s sleep. Dr

Dr Darren Green recommends seven to nine hours of sleep per night

Green advises to never underestimate the power of: • The pillow – it supports the neck and shoulder muscles • The bed – it ensures maximum comfort and allows for a peaceful night’s rest • Pyjamas and bed linen – the

materials matter, nylon irritates the skin, cotton is best.

Leon Meyer, general manager at The Westin Cape Town says his establishment is well-geared for the business traveller. He is in agreement with Dr Green that good sleep is critical for both mental and physical health and that is why The Westin has created an assortment of products and programmes to ensure every guest has a sound night’s sleep to prepare for the day ahead. •

Conference Venues Southern Africa 2018

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ON THE AGENDA

Africa’s new

tourism trend is taking the world by storm Conference goers and business travellers are no longer content to just attend meetings and other business events without some kind of incentive.

The newest meeting incentive that’s taking the world by storm is ‘volun-tourism’ and we’re proud to say this is a uniquely African concept.

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Conference Venues Southern Africa 2018

ON THE AGENDA

W

hat makes Africa so special?

There is no question visitors are captivated by the continent’s wildlife, magnificent landscape and the promise of wild adventure. It is no small wonder holidaymakers are choosing African destinations again and again. But these aren’t the only reason that Africa continues to hit the travel bucket list time and again. ‘There are so very many reasons why people are continually visiting our magnificent continent. A number of people are still coming to enjoy our wildlife, however what we are seeing as a growing trend is that visitors are looking for a more immersive experience. Instead of going out on a traditional game drive, they want to walk trails with a guide, dive in a cage with sharks, leap off of a ledge on a bungee cord into a waterfall, or take a helicopter flip across the savannah,’ says Paddy Brearley, managing director of Legacy Hotels and Resort Group.

EXPERIENCE LOCAL CULTURE Africa’s landscapes and wildlife have indeed been its attraction to many visitors, not to mention the great diversity in climate as well as plant and animal life. Taking the southern African region into account alone, the landscape includes desert, savannah and tropical, giving visitors a wide range of wildlife and flora to see.

However, in and around all of this are her people and their myriad cultures.

‘Many of our guests are also looking to experience the local culture in order to develop a deeper understanding of the people who live here. There’s a strong interest in discovering the real Africa. With this in mind, we’re seeing a strong upsurge in what has come to be known as ‘volun-tourism’. This kind of holiday gives travellers a chance to get involved with the communities they are visiting by volunteering in camps to work with endangered wildlife or the community,’ Brearley adds.

The concept behind voluntourism is to allow visitors to contribute to the country they are visiting in some way. From shark conservation to propagating yoga amongst the Maasai, there are numerous options for people to choose from. Depending on an individual’s skill set, they may find

themselves teaching English in a Lesotho village or supporting communities that care for gorillas in Uganda.

‘There are also a number of visitors who come for the adventure: the scuba diving and diving with sharks, the night life, biking or sandboarding on desert dunes. There is a definite resurgence in interest in Africa as an adventure destination. The extremes we see here are unlike anywhere else on earth and globally tourists want to be part of this experience,’ Brearley says.

TOP DESTINATIONS IN AFRICA As far as trending destinations go, Namibia with its dunes, history and ocean, continues to inch its way to the top of the list of African countries to visit and was within list of 50 countries to visit released by the World Travel and Tourism Council. While South Africa has

made the list of Lonely Planet’s Top Ten countries to visit for 2018.

Not to be missed, and worth a slot on everyone’s bucket list is the Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe. This impressive waterfall has lured tourists with its beauty and splendour, which is only second to the Niagara Falls in North America.

Another key driver for African tourism is the affordability of a luxury break in the bush or beside the ocean, which is still popular for those seeking simply to escape the rush of city life.

‘Regardless of how guests may choose to spend their leisure time, however, it’s important that whatever experience they choose is one that is fulfilling for them.

We know Africa’s allure is difficult to resist and she will be enticing visitors to her shores more and more in the future,’ Brearley concludes. •

Conference Venues Southern Africa 2018

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WESTERN CAPE

Meet in the

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Conference Venues Southern Africa 2018

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The Western Cape is arguably the most scenic province and offers a huge variety of destinations for conferences and meetings. As South African Tourism points out, in the Western Cape you will discover world-class wines, wonderful whale watching, contrasting landscapes, ample adventure options, and the magic of the Indian and Atlantic Oceans, which meet at Africa’s most southerly point.

North West

George

Mpumalanga

Kwazulu-Natal

WESTERN CAPE

A venue with a view Ideally situated at Cape Town’s V&A Waterfront, the Two Oceans Aquarium is renowned for its magnificent displays as well as its unique functions and conferencing venues.

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rom formal dinners and cocktail parties, to conferences in the shadow of Table Mountain, the Two Oceans Aquarium offers a spectacular setting to host an unforgettable event.

This world-class facility is the ideal place to thrill guests or capture the imagination of conference delegates.

For large groups, the entire aquarium can provide a living backdrop for a memorable cocktail party.

A LIVING BACKDROP The I&J Ocean Exhibit is a majestic space offering views of marine life through a vast, seamless window.

Gentle rays glide by and turtles steal

the limelight as they invite you to an immersive underwater experience through a fully acrylic tunnel. The space can accommodate up to 190 guests for an elegant dinner and 360 guests for a classy cocktail affair.

The aquarium offers a wide range of menus and beverage options to suit your needs.

PARTY PACKAGES There are a variety of party packages available that include catering, décor, dessert, bar options and even recommendations for trusted entertainers, all you’ll have to worry about is your budget. •

FOR MORE INFORMATION:

021 418 3823 functions@aquarium.co.za www.aquarium.co.za

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WESTERN CAPE

Conscious conferencing in the winelands People are more conscious of their impact on the planet and on their communities.

Conferencing is no different. Conference goers seek out environmentally and socially conscious venues. Spier provides a Conscious Conference package that includes environmental and social components. The venue has also installed solar panels to reduce its energy usage.

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pier is a historic wine farm, just 40 minutes from Cape Town, and 20 minutes from the Cape Town International airport. It has 12 different meeting venues varying in capacity. This enables the venue to cater for large and small conferences, business meetings, workshops, seminars and exhibitions.

The Spier Conference Centre includes an auditorium that seats 430 people (cinema style), as well as the four-star 153-room Spier Hotel to accommodate delegates. Three breakaway rooms can be used separately, or combined to seat 250 people.

Conference rooms are adjacent to the Eerste River and have views of the breathtaking Helderberg Mountains. The 1822 historic Manor House and its adjacent oak-shaded courtyard are ideal for top management getaways where teams can strategise in an intimate environment. The elegant boardroom at the Spier Hotel is a convenient meeting space for business guests, or groups requiring a smaller meeting facility.

There are three meeting rooms adjacent to the Spier Amphitheatre. These

intimate rooms are ideal as breakaway rooms or for smaller gatherings.

SUPPORT LOCAL INDUSTRY Spier’s Conscious Conference package includes environmental and social components, supporting the venue’s sustainable business ethos. The Conscious Conference Package enables you to join Spier in supporting local industry, fair trade and its commitment to a sustainable planet. And your delegates will have a great experience in the process.

SOLAR PANELS As part of Spier’s commitment to a selfsufficient and sustainable future, a solar power system was installed in August 2017 on the Spier Conference Centre roof.

The system generates electricity from the sun and will offset approximately 40 percent of the Conference Centre’s annual power usage. When electricity demand in the Centre is low and generation is high, the excess power will be used by other buildings on the estate.

Not only is solar generated power less expensive than energy from the grid, it

The oak-shaded courtyard of The Manor House is perfect for sundowners

also substantially reduces Spier’s carbon footprint. The solar energy generated by Spier in one year is 50.8 metric tonnes of CO2 savings; this is the equivalent of 24.58 tonnes of coal that doesn’t need be burnt in a coal-fired power station.

FACTS ON SPIER’S SOLAR PANELS • The system will save 40 percent (72,281kWh) of the Conference Centre’s annual usage (156,400kWh).

• The 42kW solar photovoltaic (PV) system is made up of 156 solar panels.

• Together, the panels take up 255m2 of the Spier Conference Centre’s roof.

• Energy from the sun is converted via two inverters, which turn the DC (direct current) power into AC (alternating current) which can be used by appliances.

• The system has an estimated total lifetime of 30 to 35 years.

• This is the third and largest solar PV system to be installed at Spier by RenEnergy, Spier’s energy partner (also based on the estate). • FOR MORE INFORMATION:

The Manor House is ideal for top management getaways

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Conference Venues Southern Africa 2018

021 809 1100 conference@spier.co.za www.spier.co.za

WESTERN CAPE

A world-class convention centre, now with added panache The CTICC has long been a landmark destination for the meetings, incentives, conventions and events industry. Conveniently located in the bustling tourist fixture of Cape Town, this multi-purpose conference and exhibition centre has a stellar reputation. Yet, not one to rest on its laurels CTICC has undergone a massive expansive project that has taken its meetings spaces to the next level.

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he Cape Town International Convention Centre (CTICC) is the destination of choice for conferences, exhibitions and business events on the African continent.

EXPANSION PROJECT The centre has undergone an impressive expansion project. The new, state-of-the-art facility, CTICC 2, is

now operational and is set to further the centre’s reputation for hosting the highest number of international conferences in Africa.

CTICC 1 and CTICC 2 will become a fully integrated event venue complex, which can operate as one or two separate facilities. Never before seen in Cape Town, the expansion allows organisers an unparalleled choice of meeting spaces in one venue.

PURPOSE BUILT Only a 20 minute drive from the airport and located in the revitalised Foreshore precinct of the city, the CTICC offers: • two raked auditoria seating 1 516 and 612 delegates respectively • two terrace rooms for 380 and 450 delegates respectively • two open-air rooftop terraces with breath-taking city views • 47 breakout rooms of varying sizes accommodating 20 to 370 delegates • 11 399m2 of dedicated exhibition and trade show space in CTICC 1

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Conference Venues Southern Africa 2018

• 10 000m2 of multipurpose conference and exhibition space in CTICC 2 • versatile banqueting rooms including a 2 000m2 grand ballroom • experienced and high performance event management staff • 4 000 prime hotel rooms within 10 minutes of the centre • a network of professional and worldclass preferred suppliers.

The CTICC is a purpose-built facility and driver of the region’s knowledge economy. Located in one of the world’s premier tourist destinations, its timely expansion bolsters its promise to deliver extraordinary event experiences to a far broader audience and provides impetus to its founding principles of job creation and economic growth. •

FOR MORE INFORMATION:

021 410 5000 info@cticc.co.za www.cticc.co.za

SIZE DOES MATTER

Big.

Spaces

Better.

Options

Best.

Experiences

It’s been said that size doesn’t matter, but when it comes to creating extraordinary experiences for your guests, delegates or attendees, we have to disagree. That’s why we recently expanded the CTICC with the sole aim of giving our clients and guests more…

More space. More flexibility. More award-winning cuisine. More attention to detail. More convenience.

More breathtaking views. More parking. More facilities.

All of which give you more opportunity to transform your meeting, event, conference or show into a truly extraordinary experience.

To discover the massive positive impact our bigger and better convention centre can have on your brand or business, contact the CTICC today on +27 21 410 5000 or email sales@cticc.co.za

WESTERN CAPE

How Cape Town’s hospitality industry united to

hold back Day The Western Cape has recently experienced the worst drought in its latest history. While residents scramble to avoid reaching Day Zero, the hospitality industry in the province has played a big part in averting the crisis for now. From removing bath plugs in hotel bathrooms to replacing linen napkins with paper ones in hotel dining rooms – Jeff Rosenberg, chairperson of FEDHASA, delves into the water-saving techniques making a big impact in the Western Cape.

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he worst drought in 100 years gripped the Western Cape during 2017 and the province continues to experience dire water shortages.

In early 2018 Cape Town Mayor, Patricia de Lille, released the city’s Critical Water Shortages Disaster Plan, detailing that residents of the Mother City are allowed only 50 litres of water per person per day.

The three phases of the disaster plan are explained as such: phase 1: water rationing through extreme pressure reduction; phase 2: disaster stage – residents will be allowed to collect a ‘predefined quantity’ of water from collection sites and phase 3: extreme

disaster phase – when the city is no longer able to extract water from its dams, and non-surface supplies sourced from ground water abstraction will only be available for drinking purposes.

THE NEW NORMAL FOR CAPETONIANS Let’s be honest, we can do very little, if anything without water, and as this crisis intensifies, simple ways to conserve this much-needed resource have been placed under the microscope. After all, every little bit helps. These simple, yet highly effective methods have become the new normal. The bucket system in

the shower, two minute showers overall and rainwater harvesting during the already departed winter months are some of the few, yet meaningful watersaving techniques Capetonians have in place around some homes.

That’s still not enough. Ticking the water-saving boxes requires a cohesive approach. It takes commitment and hard work from all industries and individuals alike. At home in particular, we need to elevate our water-smart techniques and do more. As it stands, 65 percent of the city’s water consumption is believed to be directly from the home; that’s astronomical and very concerning, as there is still not sufficient urgency, particularly in the so called leafy suburbs.

WATER-WISE EFFORTS BY THE HOSPITALITY INDUSTRY Water saving methods should not be reserved for the home alone. We have an equal responsibility to implement these measures in businesses and associations throughout the Western Cape. The hospitality industry in the Mother City, which includes hotels and small accommodation establishments like boutique hotels and guest houses, as well as restaurants have been doing their bit in a big way. The sector is committed to increasing its water-wise efforts and to decreasing its overall water consumption.

Great strides have already been made.

We’ve been forced to think out-of-thebox and continue to work hard towards implementing some innovative water-

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Conference Venues Southern Africa 2018

WESTERN CAPE

Zero

saving measures, some of which include: installing low flow technology to save water; investing in Reverse Osmosis plants to reduce dependency on municipal water supply; and investing in water from air machines to generate potable water. Several of our members are currently investigating the introduction of water desalination plants in some of the larger hotels, which will hopefully take them off the water grid, and allow for smaller establishments and the City of Cape Town to benefit from the reduced demand on City water. It doesn’t get more creative than that.

The basics remain firmly in place.

Some restaurants have resorted to replacing table linen with placemats and using good quality paper serviettes instead of linen napkins.

We encourage more of these establishments to follow suit. In hotels, removing bath plugs from bathrooms to discourage guests from taking a bath; only changing linen on guests’ departure; enforcing the use of half flush buttons on

all toilets and installing water restrictors on shower heads and basins, are just a few of the water-smart techniques already in place. The impact has been significant – Tsogo Sun Hotels Cape Town, for example, reduced its water usage by nearly 300 000 litres in the last six months. The Hotel Verde at the Cape Town International Airport, designed specifically keeping environmentally sustainable features in mind, only uses 35 percent of water required by a hotel of the same size, saving around 65 percent of water per day.

Despite these efforts, we agree there’s more to be done. And to solidify the industry’s commitment to adopting a water-smart approach, member establishments have signed the FEDHASA Cape Water Wise Pledge, which states establishments are committed to both short and long-term improvement with its water conservation measures as a part of its commitment to responsible tourism practices that protect and enhance the natural, cultural, social and economic

environment. Work doesn’t stop here, a Water Wise Task Team, made-up of key industry role-players has also been established and will look at developing a water-wise policy and implementation plan and assist members with the capturing and monitoring process.

Day Zero is not an option. Members have increased awareness campaigns for guests, especially tourists, to prevent this crisis from extending further. Yet the responsibility does not rest solely on the shoulders of the hospitality industry, we can’t do it alone. We challenge all businesses and associations to come on-board and to be robust in their efforts; together we can make a difference. •

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Jeff Rosenberg is the chairperson of the Federated Hospitality Association of South Africa (FEDHASA) Cape region.

FEDHASA Cape is recognised as the prime representative and voice for the South African Hospitality Industry.

Conference Venues Southern Africa 2018

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GAUTENG

Meet in

Gauteng

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Gauteng is South Africa’s smallest, yet most densely populated province.

As a result, many corporate and industrial manufacturing companies are headquartered in the area and require venues for conferences, staff training sessions, think tanks and team-building.

FIND US ONLINE

& S a f a ri P

Limpopo

GAUTENG

Stay connected at Hotel 224 Whether you’re in Tshwane for a long- or short-term stay, Hotel 224 and its affiliates have the right accommodation or meeting place for you.

A

t Hotel 224 corporate guests are not only close to major corporations and business districts but are also provided with the finest in meeting facilities, free wireless connectivity throughout the buildings, free transport within the CBD, free Gautrain pickup/ drop-off and bespoke dining options. In addition to the venue’s elegantly appointed en-suite rooms, the newly refurbished Hotel 224 Serviced Apartments offer

the benefits and comfort of hotel-like amenities with the convenience and ease of a residential living space, with a fully equipped kitchen and gym facilities.

CONFERENCE PACKAGES A variety of conference packages are on offer hosting up to 120 delegates. All packages can be tailored to meet your requirements. Hotel 224 houses four conference rooms and an additional two are housed in the adjacent Serviced Apartments building. The Hotel 224 has recently improved its complimentary WiFi offering by installing fibre lines and guests are now afforded the convenience of faster limitless connectivity. All conference rooms offer the following: a data projector; DVD Player; complimentary wireless; internet; PA system; roving microphone;

lapel microphone; large white screen; flipcharts; and notepads and pens.

LONG TERM STAYS Situated in the elegant tree-lined suburb of Brooklyn, 137 @ Murray Guesthouse offers a range of fully-equipped and serviced self-catering units - ideal for long term stays. Affiliated to Hotel 224, this guesthouse is professionally run in a hotel-like manner and provides for your every convenience. The guesthouse also offers exceptional meeting facilities and boasts three conference rooms. • FOR MORE INFORMATION:

012 440 5281 book@hotel224.com www.hotel224.com www.224apartments.co.za www.murray137.co.za

Conference Venues Southern Africa 2018

23

GAUTENG

Your home away from home The iconic Centurion Lake Hotel has changed its name to the Centurion Hotel.

Conveniently located between Johannesburg and Pretoria, it is the ideal destination for the business traveller.

T

he Centurion Hotel’s six superb conference rooms accommodate up to 250 delegates and its 160 superior rooms and executive suites make it the ideal ‘home away from home’. Bruno’s Restaurant and Bar offers a large variety of great dishes appealing to all tastes and the menu can be tailored to meet your requirements. The Centurion Hotel has become well-known as the business hub in the suburb of Centurion.

CONFERENCE AND ACCOMMODATION There are six conference rooms that can accommodate 10 to 250 delegates comfortably. Accommodation includes 160 rooms ranging from luxury and executive suites to executive rooms, as well as double and twin rooms.

Whether it’s elegant functionality or sumptuous luxury you’re after look no further than the Centurion Hotel.

Heroes Acre, and the renowned National Zoological Gardens of South Africa (Pretoria Zoo and Aquarium).

STATE OF THE ART CONFERENCE EQUIPMENT The Centurion Hotel has video conferencing on request, audio visual equipment, OHP, screens, lectern, PA system, laser pointers, VCR, TV monitor and tape recording equipment. Additional equipment can be arranged.

OTHER FACILITIES The hotel has complimentary wireless internet access, swimming pool, DSTV, on-site secure parking and digital safes in all the rooms.

HUB OF ACTIVITY There are numerous recreational activities nearby. The hotel is close to Supersport Park, Irene Golf Course, Loftus Versveld Stadium, the Voortrekker Monument, Union Buildings, Air Force Memorial,

STATE OF THE ART GYM The Centurion Hotel has a state of the art gym. Perfect for the busy business traveller who doesn’t want to skimp on their workout. •

FOR MORE INFORMATION:

012 643 3600 centurion@legacyhotels.co.za www.legacyhotels.co.za

24

Conference Venues Southern Africa 2018

The ideal destination for the

business traveller Conveniently located between Johannesburg and Pretoria, the Centurion Hotel is the ideal destination for the business traveller.

Six conference rooms • State of the art conference equipment Luxury accommodation • Restaurant and bar

Tel: 012 643 3600 Fax: 012 643 3737

Centurion@legacyhotels.co.za www.legacyhotels.co.za

Address: 1001 Lenchen Avenue North, Centurion, 0046

GAUTENG

Summer in the city Centrally located in the exclusive suburb of Hyde Park, the classical architecture and décor of Summer Place make it the meeting place of choice for the discerning professional.

S

ummer Place is nestled in a landscaped garden, which gives it a refined and elaborate air. This select venue caters for executive business conferencing and makes an elegant setting for a truly memorable celebration.

EXCEPTIONAL SERVICE Summer Place’s professional and meticulous team welcomes local and international guests. The venue prides itself on its exceptional service that sees guests returning time and time again. When it comes to your bottom line, Summer

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Conference Venues Southern Africa 2018

Place is an environment conducive to productivity and focus.

FANTASTIC FACILITIES Summer Place offers a variety of facilities and configurations, catering for groups of 10 to 400 people, from formal boardroom meetings to breakaway groups in tranquil gardens where business becomes a pleasure. The multimedia equipment facilities offer on-site technical support, providing instant global networking and video conferencing on request. 24-hour security and ample parking within the grounds ensure complete peace of mind to conference goers.

Conferencing facilities on offer include three large banqueting rooms (seating up to 350 people in the largest room), five intimate boardrooms (seating up to 35 people in the largest room).

All the latest conference equipment is at your fingertips including: motorised screens, PA system, LCD XGA data projector, VCR, CD player,

satellite and adjustable light settings. There is no on-site accommodation available, however there are numerous international hotels in close proximity to the venue.

BANQUETING AND WEDDING VENUE Summer Place is one of Gauteng’s most popular banqueting and wedding venues.

The lush gardens, pristine décor and convenient location make it the perfect backdrop to any type of event, from engagement parties to private events, to exclusive weddings and vow renewals.

Summer Place can cater to your every need, be it an intimate setting or a generous space.

Summer Place’s own event management is at your disposal. The venue’s event planning team is there to guide you and will also give you unlimited access to Summer Place’s preferred and trusted suppliers.

Your dream venue is closer than you think. • FOR MORE INFORMATION:

011 447 9744 info@summerplacesa.com www.summerplacesa.com

GAUTENG

A Joburg paradise The Protea Hotel by Marriott Johannesburg Balalaika Sandton is located in Johannesburg’s economic heartland.

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he charming colonial theme of The Protea Hotel by Marriott Johannesburg Balalaika Sandton is accentuated with wooden elements and delicate floral accents.

The English countryside atmosphere defines this four-star hotel as a bit of country in the heart of Sandton.

Birdsong makes guests forget they are actually in a bustling metropolis.

A complimentary shuttle to and from the Gautrain station makes the Balalaika easily accessible. The hotel is only a 15-minute train ride from OR Tambo International Airport. Whether for business or leisure, the central location and warm hospitality is unrivalled,

making it your first and only choice when staying in Johannesburg.

their own en-suite bathroom with separate bath and shower, individually controlled air-conditioning, executive DESCRIPTION OF VENUE work desk, LED televisions, electronic The popular conference and function laptop sage and complimentary WiFi. venues seat from 20 to 300 delegates Recreational activities include: in-house in cinema style and have professional fitness centre, steam bath, two swimming staff members to assist with your every areDCP STANDARDpools.

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FOR MORE INFORMATION:

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GAUTENG

Top hospitality trends for 2018 With so much advancement in technology and the changing needs of guests, the hospitality industry needs to stay abreast of current trends. Leon Meyer, general manager of The Westin Cape Town shares his establishment’s top hospitality trends for this year.

GENERATION EXPECTATION Millennials are individuals born between 1980 and 2000 and are characterised to have very unique views on life, technology and social interaction. In the hospitality industry we expect millennials, by 2020, to contribute 50 percent of our total room nights across all accommodation sectors. It’s therefore of utmost importance we understand, plan and change accordingly to exceed their expectations if we want to remain competitive.

HEALTH, WELLNESS AND WELLBEING The world has changed; people are more focused and driven in their personal pursuit of achieving life balance.

These demands have shaped the hospitality industry and today we see more “lifestyle” hospitality brands than ever before. Fortunately, I can confidently say the Westin brand is a leader in this space and our entire business is built on the promise that our guests will leave feeling better than when they arrived.

THE EXPERIENCE MINDSET There is a clear global trend of people looking for experiences and stories to enrich their lives. They want to share those memories instantly through social media, they want to feel valued and appreciated and more importantly they want their experience personalised and unique. There have been some great innovations and changes in the hospitality industry, allowing us to provide such personalisation and an entirely new industry has emerged to facilitate experiences that are 100 percent unique.

It’s critical we remain focused and challenged to keep innovating and to provide such experiences.

HOSPITALITY AND TECHNOLOGY In today’s information age, which actually began in 1968, everything we can imagine has been impacted, shaped and transformed to facilitate global communication and data sharing. In the hospitality space we have seen rapid and disruptive innovation and continually invest in more and more technology to ensure we remain relevant to our ever changing customer preferences and buying patterns.

A case in point is customer feedback.

In 2000 Trip Advisor was created by Stephen Kaufer and has grown from strength to strength with over 500 million reviews. Today it shows customers and the industry how technology can shape our business. Today we need systems such as Revinate and TrustYou to search and collect reviewed information across over 200 different review sites available to our local and international

customer base. This ensures we remain educated on our customers’ feedback and more importantly remain engaged with our customers who take the time to provide their reviews. Our review averages determine our market success and play an enormous part in how we run our business.

EMPLOYEE UPLIFTMENT Richard Branson said: ‘Companies should put employees first’. At the time of first reading Branson’s bold comment I was slightly unsure if this would be the correct approach to managing a customer centric business. However, in time it became apparent and logical that these in fact are very wise words.

The majority of the ‘Best Companies To Work For’ all live by this concept and have shown with repetitive success that this is indeed a change that is required in many businesses. •

Conference Venues Southern Africa 2018

29

GAUTENG

Conferencing takes

a walk on the wild side Picture it – sundowners next to the bubbling Crocodile River, taking in the sights and sounds of the African bushveld after a guided game drive where you saw white and brown lions lazing, antelopes leaping through the veld and lithe cheetahs navigating the long grass. Imagine all that less than an hour away from Johannesburg. The Lion and Safari Park has a new home near the Cradle of Humankind and while still a convenient conferencing destination, it offers a unique, unrivalled African wildlife experience for conference-goers.

W

ell-loved by locals and international tourists for the past five decades, The Lion Park moved to the Cradle of Humankind in July 2016.

The new must see world-class facility, now called The Lion and Safari Park offers guests the experience of a lifetime.

EXCITING ADVENTURES The new park offers a wealth of exciting activities such as animal interactions, guided game drives and self-drives. You are guaranteed to get super close to some of Africa’s favourite animals whether you go on an informative guided tour or selfdrive. Guests also have the opportunity to hand feed a selection of animals including giraffes, ostriches and various other antelope species that roam freely on the 600-hectare property and frequently visit the wetlands in front of ‘the Wetlands’ Bar and Restaurant.

GAME VIEWING FOR AFRICA The Lion and Safari Park is home to a vast selection of indigenous species such as

lion (brown and white), cheetah, hyena (brown, spotted and striped), leopard (including black leopard), wild dogs, sable antelope, kudu, and nyala to mention only a few.

Guests can enjoy a variety of different guided tours. The trained guides turn every tour into an informative and educational trip as they share interesting facts. Tour options include: Lion and Wild Dog Tour; Mini Safari; Night tours (with predator feeding); Private Exclusive tours; Alex Tour; and Cheetah and Lion Walks. The three hour safari is the park’s flagship tour, which includes snacks and drinks on the bank of the Crocodile River. The famous animal trainer Alex Larenty promises to provide a fun-filled experience as he interacts with fully grown lions on the ‘Alex tour’.

BRING THE KIDS The park is a paradise for children. The beautifully designed playground next to the restaurants will keep the young ones entertained. This makes the perfect venue for kiddie’s birthday parties. A day

visit to the park also provides the perfect opportunity for school children to learn about the animals and various research programmes the Lion and Safari Park is involved.

AFRICAN DINING SENSATIONS The Bull ‘n Buck grill provides a premier dining experience with a top wine list and a delicious menu, venison of course being the grill’s speciality dish complimenting a true African sensation. Alternatively, the Wetlands Restaurant is a great family choice to enjoy a quick meal whilst enjoying the view of antelope grazing metres away. Take a short walk from the restaurants to visit the meerkat, porcupine and mongoose enclosures.

UNIQUE CONFERENCE VENUE Apart from being a world-class tourist destination, the Lion and Safari Park turns any conference, function or event into something unique.

The park’s photographic centre will capture your memories with a great range of printing options such as photo books, mugs, key rings, puzzles and more. The ‘5 dome shopping experience’ offers a vast selection of unique handcrafted curios, jewellery and clothing, which make great gifts for those back home.

Entrance to the restaurants, curio shops and kiddie’s playground is free, and guests only pay for activities. The cost of a visit to the Lion and Safari Park is well priced for both local and international guests.

The park is open 365 days a year and is an experience not to be missed. •

FOR MORE INFORMATION:

087 150 0100 info@lionpark.com www.lionandsafaripark.com

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Conference Venues Southern Africa 2018

NORTH WEST

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Limpopo

North West FIND US ONLINE www.conven.co.za

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Pilanesberg

P34 Rustenburg

Mahikeng Potchefstroom Vryburg

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Conference Venues Southern Africa 2018

Gauteng

Free State

North West lies in the north of South Africa on the Botswana border, fringed by the Kalahari desert in the west, Gauteng province to the east, and the Free State to the south.

It is known as the Platinum Province for the wealth of the metal it has underground.

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@ConvenSA

North West

Mpumalanga

Kwazulu-Natal

NORTH WEST

Break out of the boardroom and unlock creative thought

There are many benefits to getting out of the office, away from the city and into an idyllic setting – and not just for a holiday or weekend break. Breaking away from the norm is the ideal way to hold a conference or team building escape. We look at the benefits of these type of conferences and teambuilding.

T

here are many companies that now hold conferences in house. It makes perfect business sense. However, getting out of the office and out of one’s comfort zone can yield results in the business that in-house conferencing is unable to match.

‘Team building is an important exercise for companies these days. Research shows it improves communication and work relationships and it provides fantastic opportunities to develop skills,’ says Paddy Brearley, managing director of Legacy Hotels and Resort Group.

ALL WORK AND NO PLAY Conferences don’t have to be all business and no play. With a bushveld break,

teams get to enjoy nature with game drives or guided walks, or they can bond under the African sky around a pit fire with a boma dinner.

‘When staff are in a more relaxed environment they are in a better space to learn and retain what they have learned. They are also no longer in their comfort zone, which means they are being intellectually stimulated by the new environment they find themselves in’, explains Brearley.

ALL ROUND WELLBEING Many businesses are now focusing on staff wellbeing, and this includes ensuring staff feel welcome and appreciated within the company.

Taking employees out of the work environment shows staff they are indeed appreciated, which has a direct effect on company morale.

‘Many companies believe holding a conference in another location is going to cost more money. More and more venues are open to discussing per head cost with their clients so that not only do they create a cost-effective conference, but also a memorable experience for their staff,’ says Brearley.

Conferences are part and parcel of the fast-paced business world, but they needn’t be something delegates dread.

A trek in the bush, or a teambuilding safari may be exactly what some employees need. • Conference Venues Southern Africa 2018

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NORTH WEST

Come meet the People of the Hippo Conferences are not all work and no play. Guests also desire a beautiful setting, excellent facilities and exceptional service. Bakubung Bush Lodge in the North West province of South Africa provides the perfect bush break combined with cutting edge conferencing facilities and luxury accommodation.

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estled in the vast expanses of the malaria-free Pilanesberg National Park, home to the Big 5 and a mere two hours from the hustle and bustle of Johannesburg is Bakubung Bush Lodge. The lodge’s name means ‘People of the Hippo’.

It is a proud member of the renowned Legacy group of properties, famously known for its attention to detail and superb service.

GOLD STATUS Having started off as a time-share only property, Bakubung has expanded over the years to one of the largest bush lodges in the Pilanesberg National Park. Bakubung provides the perfect location for both business and leisure in an eco-friendly environment, having maintained Gold status from Heritage due to its many sustainable initiatives over the years.

BUSINESS IN THE BUSH The property as a whole boasts 100 hotel rooms, four conferencing venues, a bar, restaurant, wildlife centre, boma, spa, pool, gym and various other outdoor activities .

Not forgetting to mention the game drives and bush walks hosted by Bakubung’s passionate and highly qualified rangers, all packaged together making it the perfect setting for conferences or teambuilding activities alike.

The lodge’s 100 hotel rooms are divided into the following room categories and ensure comfortable and luxurious accommodation for all: • Standard Twin • Standard King • Standard Queen • Luxury King • Executive King CONFERENCING INSIDE AND OUT Bakubung’s largest conferencing venue is Mmakubu with a maximum seating capacity

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Conference Venues Southern Africa 2018

of 120 in a schoolroom style or 80 in a gala dinner style. It is situated adjacent to the lodge’s charming restaurant terrace and provides amazing panoramic views of Pilanesberg and the Hippo Pool, which is a favourite watering hole for elephants and other wildlife.

Kubunyana is a mid-sized venue with the maximum seating capacity of 60 in cinema style or 22 in U-Shape. It has a wonderful outdoor patio that is the perfect setting for tea time breaks and provides an amazing view into the park.

Magarekubu A&B is the perfect place for your conference’s breakaway rooms. Each venue has a seating capacity of 40 Cinema style or 12 U-Shape style.

All venues come standard with built in screens, overhead projectors, flipcharts, ISDN lines, standard stationery, water and cordials and are fully air-conditioned.

MAGICAL AFRICAN NIGHTS Bakubung’s Boma Bush Braai provides a magical setting for a truly African experience. An undercover seating capacity of 240 people makes it the picture-perfect location for a gala dinner with a difference.

Surrounded by fire pits and lanterns, guests can immerse themselves into the tranquillity of the bush all whilst dining on authentic

South African delicacies and taking in the true sounds of the African twilight.

Relax and recharge It’s not all about work at Bakubung, should the stresses of the conference become too straining, the lodge’s magnificent spa provides the perfect atmosphere in which to relax and recharge. With four treatment rooms and a truly unique outdoor massage area it is definitely worth a visit. The extended operating hours during the week ensure you are able to experience its peacefulness and the magical touch of qualified therapists even after a full day of business talk. Bakubung not only provides a safe and secure family friendly property filled with outdoor activities and programmes for children. It also provides all the necessary comforts and professionalism needed to ensure a successful conference.

In order to make your next corporate event the talk of the town or to plan your annual family getaway. • FOR MORE INFORMATION:

014 552 6000 bakubung@legacyhotels.co.za

www.legacyhotels.co.za/en/hotels/ bakubung

BAKUBUNG

PEOPLE OF THE HIPPO

100 ROOMS & SUITES 3 CONFERENCE VENUES WITH CAPACITY FOR UP TO 120 DELEGATES MAGNIFICENT BOMA DINNERS UNDER THE STARS FOR UP TO 250 GUESTS VARIETY OF TEAM-BUILDING & GROUP ACTIVITIES

GIVE YOUR DELEGATES THE ULTIMATE AFRICAN EXPERIENCE!

GAME DRIVES

Bookings are essential Please contact us on 014 552 6000 or bakubung@legacyhotels.co.za

www.LegacyHotels.com

www.LegacyLifestyle.co.za

KWAZULU-NATAL

KwaZulu-Natal

Limpopo

as a conference destination The diversity of locations available in KwaZuluNatal means selecting a venue for your www.conven.co.za conference can be difficult. With three different geographic areas, your first decision will be whether to meet at a venue overlooking the @ConvenSA Indian Ocean, to choose the Natal Midlands, or to go for the mountainous areas of the Drakensberg or the Lebombo Mountains.

FIND US ONLINE

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NEW CONFERENCE CENTRE NOW OPEN Fairmont Zimbali Resort is the ultimate destination for clients looking to close their next business deal. As a premier conferencing destination, with 5-star service and state-of-the-art facilities, your next strategic session will be a memorable one.

Our new expanded conference centre accommodates up to 600 guests, with the exibility to cater for more intimate venues as well.

The facilities further include 154 well-appointed rooms, mouth-watering dining options and sparkling swimming pools. After a successful day, delegates can unwind at the Willow Stream Spa or the fully equipped gym.

For those who enjoy the outdoors, a round of golf or mountain biking awaits.

Fairmont Zimbali Resort is a 15-minute drive from the King Shaka International Airport.

For capacity charts and further information, please contact our Sales Team or visit our website.

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Conference Venues Southern Africa 2018

CONTACT OUR SALES TEAM CALL + 27 (0)32 538 5000 E-MAIL ZIMBALI.SALES@FAIRMONT.COM FOR FURTHER INFORMATION KINDLY VISIT FAIRMONT.COM/ZIMBALI-RESORT

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Port Shepstone

KWAZULU-NATAL

Majestic Midlands Fordoun is situated in the green pastures of the Nottingham Road Dairy Farm in the Natal Midlands.

T

he hotel overlooks the majestic Drakensberg Mountains in a tranquil country setting, which combines an upmarket boutique hotel, spa, restaurant and self-catering chalets, with top class conference, wedding and events destination.

The Farm Village Barn Conference Centre is big enough to cater for up to 100 delegates seated with state of the art audio-visual equipment. The Hotel Norms Conference Centre is ideal for smaller managerial conferences that cater for up to 30 delegates (U-shape style) and 60 delegates (cinema style). The hotel’s aim is to offer professional personalised service with state of the art facilities.

ACCOMMODATION The hotel comprises 22 luxurious double suites with private verandas, under-floor heating, TV and tea/coffee making facilities. The eight luxurious self-catering chalets provide ample

accommodation for 30 guests (sharing), fully catered with linen, bath towels, kitchen crockery, cutlery, cooking utensils and glasses. All bedrooms have their own bathroom with a bath and shower.

CONFERENCE EQUIPMENT State of the art audio-visual data projectors, automated screens, whiteboard, flip charts, notepads and pens, WiFi and Internet access.

RECREATIONAL ACTIVITIES Gym, spa with flotation pool, swimming pool, sauna, steam room and Jacuzzi. An expert in plants and culture to do talks and consultations.

Agri-tourism, trial walks and mountain biking, flyfishing and teambuilding can be arranged. • FOR MORE INFORMATION:

033 266 6217 reservations@fordoun.co.za www.fordoun.com

Make memories in the majestic Midlands Fordoun Hotel and Spa offers 5 star luxury accommodation in Nottingham Road, in the scenic KwaZulu-Natal Midlands, at the foothills of the majestic Drakensberg Mountains

+27 (0) 33 266 6217

reservations@fordoun.co.za

www.fordoun.co.za

Conference Venues Southern Africa 2018

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KWAZULU-NATAL

North Coast gem

combines business and leisure The Fairmont Zimbali Resort’s close proximity to King Shaka International Airport and all major business centres in Durban belies its tranquil, beach setting. While the resort has state-ofthe-art conferencing facilities you’ll also have to allow yourself time to soak in the warm KZN sunshine and get in a round of golf.

S

outh Africa’s magnificent eastern shoreline features gently rolling hills, lush flora, pristine forest and a glistening sea, which form the backdrop to a world of wondrous sights.

Take in 1 000-year-old battlefields, incomparable game viewing opportunities and renowned eco-parks—including two World Heritage Sites - Ukhahlamba Drakensberg Park and iSimangaliso Wetland Park. Wrapped in this exquisite natural beauty and rich cultural intrigue is KwaZulu-Natal’s premier destination: Fairmont Zimbali Resort, a tranquil retreat offering the utmost in stylish comfort and unrivalled service.

EASILY ACCESSIBLE Located just five minutes from the bustling holiday town of Ballito, 20 minutes from Umhlanga and 30 minutes from Central Durban, this beachfront North Coast hotel provides easy access to the province’s attractions. At just 16km from King Shaka International Airport, the Fairmont Zimbali Resort is easily accessible.

Cosmopolitan flair and traditional Zulu accents permeate the hotel’s 154 guest rooms and suites, each with scintillating

views of the warm Indian Ocean. There are also 18 Fairmont Heritage Place Villas on the hotel grounds.

FOODIE HEAVEN Adding to the superb offerings is a variety of exquisite food and beverage experiences, which range from international favourites to locally inspired flavours. Guests can indulge at OSA, an Indian Fusion restaurant serving local and international curry favourites, or experience the vibrant Mexican atmosphere of Ayoba!

Restaurant. Known for its international dinner buffets, Fairmont Zimbali Resort’s Coral Tree Restaurant offers an indulgent experience for even the most refined of palates. Dalchini and 31 Degrees offer an afternoon tea, light bar menu, sushi bar, cakes and other delights with an uninterrupted view of the Indian Ocean while Bite Pool Bar and Grill is the perfect location for a poolside lunch and cocktail.

CLOSE THE DEAL Fairmont Zimbali Resort is the ultimate destination for clients looking to close their next business deal. As a premier conferencing destination, with five-star-

service and state-of-the-art facilities, your next strategic session will be a memorable one. Venues include an executive boardroom and four conference venues, which are joined by concertina doors, allowing you the flexibility to choose the size of your venue. The resort’s new conference centre accommodates up to 600 guests, but also offers flexibility for smaller groups. Whether it’s a high powered meeting for two or a strategic session with your entire company, Fairmont Zimbali Resort has the perfect solution for you. A wide range of audio-visual aids and state-of-the art-equipment is available to conference delegates in all conference rooms while convenient on-site parking, complimentary WiFi and mouth-watering food will take your event to new heights.

After a productive day recreation awaits you. Delegates can take a dip in one of the resort’s sparkling swimming pools, enjoy a round of golf on the 18-hole championship course at Zimbali Country Club or relax at the renowned Willow Stream Spa, which also boasts a fitness centre.

At Fairmont Zimbali Resort, its legendary hospitality and attention to detail create an atmosphere of pure paradise—a place where you can effortlessly immerse yourself in Africa’s unforgettable charm and allure. •

FOR MORE INFORMATION:

032 538 5000 zim.sales@fairmont.com www.fairmont.com/zimbali-resort/

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Conference Venues Southern Africa 2018

12:04

PM

The moment business became pleasure

NEW CONFERENCE CENTRE NOW OPEN Fairmont Zimbali Resort is the ultimate destination for clients looking to close their next business deal. As a premier conferencing destination, with 5-star service and state-of-the-art facilities, your next strategic session will be a memorable one.

Our new expanded conference centre accommodates up to 600 guests, with the ďƒ&#x;exibility to cater for more intimate venues as well.

The facilities further include 154 well-appointed rooms, mouth-watering dining options and sparkling swimming pools. After a successful day, delegates can unwind at the Willow Stream Spa or the fully equipped gym.

For those who enjoy the outdoors, a round of golf or mountain biking awaits.

Fairmont Zimbali Resort is a 15-minute drive from the King Shaka International Airport.

For capacity charts and further information, please contact our Sales Team or visit our website.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION KINDLY VISIT FAIRMONT.COM/ZIMBALI-RESORT

attic rush

CONTACT OUR SALES TEAM CALL + 27 (0)32 538 5000 E-MAIL ZIMBALI.SALES@FAIRMONT.COM

LIMPOPO

Meet in

Limpopo

Limpopo FIND US ONLINE www.conven.co.za Make work feel like a holiday at Monate Game Lodge

@ConvenSA

IN THE GEM OF THE BUSHVELD.

Conferences | Workshops | Training | Seminars | Team Building • Luxurious accommodation • Swimming pools • Game drives • 2 Jacuzzis • Breakaway area

GA M E L

Free State Northern Cape

Eastern Cape Western Cape

O E

MO

E AT

Gauteng

DG

N

• Two conference venues • 8 – 140 delegates • Data projectors • Air-conditioning • Sound system • Complimentary Wi-Fi

A land of beautiful and contrasting landscapes, Limpopo is a region of infinite scenic beauty with a great diversity of both natural and man-made attractions, rich cultural heritage and an abundance of wildlife and nature-based tourism opportunities.

North West

P41 014 718 7000

conferences@monatelodge.com

www.monatelodge.com

P. O. Box 2968, Modimolle, 0510. GPS Co-ordinates: S24°44’42.89” - E028°40’003.00”

Polokwane Sterkrivier Modimolle Bela-Bela

40

Conference Venues Southern Africa 2018

Tzaneen Phalaborwa

Mpumalanga

Kwazulu-Natal

Make work feel like a holiday at Monate Game Lodge IN THE GEM OF THE BUSHVELD.

Conferences | Workshops | Training | Seminars | Team Building • Two conference venues • 8 – 140 delegates • Data projectors • Air-conditioning • Sound system • Complimentary Wi-Fi

014 718 7000

conferences@monatelodge.com

• Luxurious accommodation • Swimming pools • Game drives • 2 Jacuzzis • Breakaway area

www.monatelodge.com

P. O. Box 2968, Modimolle, 0510. GPS Co-ordinates: S24°44’42.89” - E028°40’003.00”

SOUTH AFRICA AND BEYOND

Conference, stay and play in SA and beyond The Tsogo Sun group has a portfolio of more than 250 conference and banqueting facilities in South Africa and beyond. With numerous venue options available for groups of 10 to 5 000, Tsogo Sun is able to provide you with flexibility and simplicity when it comes to your conference planning.

W

ith a portfolio of more than 100 hotels in South Africa, Africa, the Seychelles and the Middle East, it’s no wonder Tsogo Sun is known as Africa’s premier hospitality, entertainment and gaming group.

MANY VENUE OPTIONS The group has a vision to provide excellence in hospitality, leisure, gaming and entertainment. The Tsogo Sun brand encompasses a variety of theatres, cinemas, more than 300 restaurants and bars and over 250 conference and banqueting facilities.

Whether you need an intimate meeting room with an excellent view for 10 people or an auditorium with fantastic

acoustics for 5 000 people, Tsogo Sun has the right fit for you.

PREFERENTIAL RATES The group’s combination of flexible, dynamic conference venues, warm hospitality and professional staff combine to ensure the success of every conference it hosts. Tsogo Sun conference venues can be set up in a number of configurations to suit your requirements and can cater for your conference by providing anything from light refreshments to a formal dinner.

ONE OF AFRICA’S LEADING CONFERENCE VENUES One of Tsogo Sun’s flagship properties is

the SCC. It is conveniently located in the heart of Sandton’s business district and within easy reach of the Gautrain and OR Tambo International Airport. The SCC is flanked by a number of leading hotels, such as Sandton Sun, Intercontinental Sandton Towers, Garden Court Sandton City, Holiday Inn Sandton; sophisticated shopping malls and entertainment complexes. The dynamic 12-storey facility offers more than 22 000 m2 of flexible space and is the most technologically advanced facility of its kind in South Africa. It is also one of the leading conference and event venues in Africa.

The SCC is able to cater for all dietary requirements – including vegetarian, halaal and kosher.

If you’re looking for a suitable conference venue with distinctive service, consistent professionalism and innovative thinking, Tsogo Sun can provide you with the widest selection of conference venues to ensure a unique and memorable event. • FOR MORE INFORMATION:

011 510 7433 tsogosun.conferencing@tsogosun.com www.tsogosun.com

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Conference Venues Southern Africa 2018

TURN YOUR CONFERENCE INTO A

DESTINATION EXPERIENCE

BLUE MARLIN HOTEL T: +27 (0) 39 978 3361 E: conf@bluemarlin.co.za

FINFOOT LAKE RESERVE T: +27 (0) 21 277 8911 E: finfoot.sales@dreamresorts.co.za

TALA COLLECTION PRIVATE GAME RESERVE T: +27 (0) 31 781 8000 E: functions@tala.co.za

PENINSULA ALL-SUITE HOTEL T: +27 (0) 21 430 777 E: confer@peninsula.co.za

PIEKENIERSKLOOF MOUNTAIN RESORT T: +27 (0) 22 921 3574 E: pkloof@dreamresorts.co.za

LEFRANSCHHOEK HOTEL & SPA T: +27 (0) 21 876 8900 E: banqueting@lefranschhoek.co.za

Dream Hotels & Resorts specialises in destination conferencing experiences across South Africa, offering you an immersive, bespoke solution to suit your needs. From the idyllic bushveld to scenic ocean views, our varied range of destinations cater to all. Each property offers all the essential facilities needed to make your stay both convenient and comfortable.

BOOK WITH US TODAY AND MAKE YOUR CONFERENCE AN EXPERIENCE TO REMEMBER Visit dreamresorts.co.za for more information