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APRIL 2013
Contents Issue 3 (April) 2013 PUBLISHER Tourism Tattler (Pty) Ltd. PO Box 891, Umhlanga Rocks, 4320 KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. Company Reg.No.: 2006/015252/07 Website: www.tourismtattler.co.za MANAGING EDITOR Des Langkilde Tel: +27 (0)87 727 8631 Cell: +27 (0)82 374 7260 Fax: +27 (0)86 651 8080 E-mail: editor@tourismtattler.co.za Skype: tourismtattler EDITOR Marjorie Dean Tel: +27 (0)11 886 9996 Fax: +27 (0)11 886 7557 E-mail: communications@satsa.co.za Skype: satsa-comms ADVERTISING MANAGER Bev Langkilde Tel: +27 (0)87 727 8643 Fax: +27 (0)86 656 3860 Cell: +27 (0)71 224 9971 E-mail: bev@tourismtattler.co.za Skype: bevtourismtattler SUBSCRIPTIONS Email: subscriptions@tourismtattler.co.za Skype: subscribetourismtattler
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The Regional Tourism Organisation of Southern Africa (RETOSA) Tel: +2711 315 2420/1 Fax: +2711 315 2422 Webite: www.retosa.co.za
National Accommodation Association of South Africa (NAA-SA) Tel: +2786 186 2272 Fax: +2786 225 9858 Webite: www.naa-sa. co.za
The Southern Africa Tourism Services Association (SATSA) Tel: +2786 127 2872 • Fax: +2711 886 755 Webite: www.satsa.com
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Competition: Win a Wine Weekend Away
Discussion: SA Tourism Crime Statistics
Conservation: SANParks plans ahead
Niche Tourism: Film Tourism
IN THIS ISSUE
EDITORIAL 05 From the Editors Desk / Cover Story 06 Discussion Forum - Tourism Crime ACHIEVEMENTS & ACCOLADES Trade Awards - visit our website AVIATION 08 Comair challenges SAA BUSINESS 10 Small business loans COMPETITION 11 L’Avenir County Lodge, Stellenbosch CONSERVATION 12 SANParks 2022 RT Strategy 16 Wildlife poaching DESTINATIONS 18 Zimbabwe awakens EVENTS 19 BRICS Africa boosts tourism 20 RETOSA April Events Calendar 21 Namibia to host 2013 AWTS HOSPITALITY 22 A country lodge in the vineyards
23 24 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 33 38 39
Republic of Hout Bay Warm welcome at Natal Spa Luxury African river safari Beach & Bush in Port Alfred LEGAL Supplier Rights and Recourse - Part 3 MARKETING SATSA Market Intelligence Report German inbound set to grow NICHE TOURISM Exploring the benefits of Film Tourism RESPONSIBLE TOURISM Sustainable tourism roadshow RISK Travel Trade Insurance - Part 5 TRADE NEWS Trade Snippetss - visit our website SAFETY & SECURITY Bad news travels fast TRANSPORT Legal vehicles Red busses for Joburg
EDITORIAL CONTRIBUTORS
Adv. Louis Nel Des Langkilde Jeremy Smith Leonie Berning Marjorie Dean
Martin Jansen van Vuuren Mientjie Steyn Shelley Cox Tim Clarke Tom Gazaway MAGAZINE SPONSORS
01 SANParks 02 Mercedes-Benz Commercial Vehicles 06 Live the Land Tours 06 Globe Lotter Tours 06 Neil’s Transfers 06 Heritage Clothing 06 Sports & Events Tourism Exchange 06 Kondwana Marketing
06 06 15 21 23 28 33 36
SATIB Risk Solutions BnB Sure SANParks Wild Card Mantis Collection The Tarragon Savage Jooste & Adams Attorneys Ascent Underwriting TransMedia Barter
Disclaimer: The Tourism Tattler is published by Tourism Tattler (Pty) Ltd and is the official trade journal of the Southern Africa Tourism Services Association (SATSA). The Tourism Tattler digital e-zine, is distributed free of charge to bona fide tourism stakeholders. Letters to the Editor are assumed intended for publication in whole or part and may therefore be used for such purpose. The information provided and opinions expressed in this publication are provided in good faith and do not necessarily represent the opinions of Tourism Tattler (Pty) Ltd, SATSA, its staff and its production suppliers. Advice provided herein should not be soley relied upon as each set of circumstances may differ. Professional advice should be sought in each instance. Neither Tourism Tattler (Pty) Ltd, SATSA, its staff and its production suppliers can be held legally liable in any way for damages of any kind whatsoever arising directly or indirectly from any facts or information provided or omitted in these pages or from any statements made or withheld or from supplied photographs or graphic images reproduced by the publication.
APRIL 2013
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APRIL 2013
EDITORIAL
From the Editor’s Desk As I write, the country is preparing to set off on one of the busiest holiday weekends of the year. Those destinations who have planned well, such as Cape Town, Durban, and the much smaller Mossel Bay are preparing for a bumper holiday season, because such things take long-term planning – and planning on a co-operative basis. Many of our top destinations have now taken this to heart, and are reaping the rewards. Well done to them! Our discussion forum (page 6) looks at the issue of tourism crime stats. As a journalist I look at international news regularly, and items about murdered, raped and robbed tourists abound – and yet, such headlines from South Africa are rare enough to be major stories when they happen. As Peter Hayward says, why don’t we make this better known? For the tourist, South Africa is a very safe destination. I still get reaction from overseas about how worried people are when their friends come to South Africa for a holiday! – But we don’t send tourists home in body bags, on stretchers, penniless, or traumatised in any measurable numbers! And that’s a FACT! It may not fit in with the perception fostered by the overseas popular press, but it’s true! And we need to say so, loud and clear!
Peter Hayward’s letter has prompted the Tattler to look at reported attacks on tourists around the globe this year. One thing stands out very clearly – in this age of swift communication, you can’t hide the bad news. In this month’s edition of the Tattler, we also look at the contentious issue of the role played by tourism in countering wildlife poaching (see page 16) and some positive news from Zimbabwe, while on the hospitality front, our hotels and resort profiles show why we can compete with the world’s best (see Hospitality section). The SATSA Market Intelligence Report (page 29) begins to paint a more positive picture, so we should be facing the rest of 2013 with increased confidence, whatever next month’s Indaba brings. Crucial to our tourism success is that our tourism products are credible and reliable. Our continuing series on the Southern Africa Tourism Insurance Directive (page 34) shows you how to make sure you are properly insured – a vital element of credibility. Our transport section takes a look at the issue of legal vehicles, while Joburg sightseeing gets a boost with city sightseeing Red Busses. So, as ever, a bumper issue of articles dealing with the serious issues that affect our industry – and a great read! Enjoy! Marjorie
Cover Story Our society is changing and evolving, and SANParks has to be both aware of, and meet the needs of this changing social environment. They also have to comply with the requirements of the National Tourism Sector strategy, which is another demand on scarce resources.
One of the biggest success stories in domestic tourism has been the popularity of SANParks Wild Card. Senior Citizens, and others who can travel outside peak periods, just love their cards – and use them. And it is important to get as many people into the parks throughout the year as we can – the more people who use the parks, the more they care about them, and are prepared to fight for them.
Government has changed the way it funds our national parks. They have to meet their own day-to-day running costs, while Government will provide once-off project -based funding. So while respecting the natural environment and the needs of conservation, SANParks also has to be able to accommodate more visitors, and still give them the famous South African wildlife experience.
That’s Responsible Tourism in action! SANParks has also had Nature to contend with, both this year and last. Severe flooding caused huge damage, but the SANParks Board has worked hard to repair this. In 2012 National Parks published its ‘Journey to 2022 document, detailing its plans for the next 10 years. It describes managing our National Parks as “ like bringing up children” – an unpredictable journey. The key element in this journey is keeping the parks relevant to South Africans. Without our buy in, the Parks cannot continue to flourish. We have to face the fact that Conservation is an expensive process – we need the revenue brought in by visitors to fund this. Running our National Parks costs over R1 billion per annum, and over 80 per cent of this has to be self generated.
Along with its previous responsibilities, SANParks has to run its operations on a successful business basis. The needs of a whole variety of tourists will have to be accommodated, and SANParks is working hard to ensure that this is done. As reported on page 12, SANParks need and deserve the support of both the inbound and domestic tourism industry as they face huge challenges, and SATSA and the Tourism Tattler are behind them all the way.
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ARTICLE DISCUSSIONS
Discussion Forum Posted on 18 March - Forums /General /Crime & Hospitality Security:
How to contribute to article discussions
Tourism Offices Posting Crime Stats blatantly in the face of potential tourists and visitors
On the Tourism Tattler website, click on the Article Discussion icon located above the ‘Share’ bar beneath each article - this will open the discussion page in a new browser tab.
We need to crow-bar the lid off this “Crime Stat” confusion as regards tourism. Why do tourism offices insist on posting their dirty washing (SA crime stats) blatantly in the face of potential tourists and visitors to our shores? This question needs to be answered. Is it fair that a very small minority (approximately 2.5% of the population), hell bent on crime in one form or another, hold the country to ransom? The question begs a well published answer. How many visitors to our shores were impacted by violent crime by one of the world’s most violent countries? Please can you publish this for all SATSA members and South Africans involved in promoting this country for tourism - the reality of this for the past 1 year, 5 years and 10 years based on the ratio of visitors to our shores? If we base the crime stats on the current incoming tourism stats of approximately 7 million-+ visitors then surely we must be one of the safest countries in the world to travel in? How many of these “tourists” are reporting violent crime? Look at the incredible lack of violent crime over the World Cup 2010. The world’s vindictive press was unusually stunned into a stupor by the wonderful visitor responses. It is strange that the minute you focus on Crime on Tourist stats, you can barely find any crime! Why is that? It’s interesting to note how long and how much digging all over the internet it is taking to get a simple figure....why? Not SATSA, nor SA Tourism, SAACI, Cape Town Tourism, Gauteng Tourism, Free State Tourism, and the like, ...not even Government they are stupid enough to release national crime stats on our country’s Visa application sites (and the USA and British Commonwealth do the same). It seems no one involved in tourism can openly display these ‘crime on tourists’ figures on their websites? What IS going on? Are we focusing as a country on creating our own negative PR campaigns levelled against ourselves? Do we actually want to destroy all possibility of attracting more incoming US Dollar and Euro paying international tourists? What is this group agreement all about? No one is denying that we can improve as a country and that our crime figures are out of proportion. That is a well versed song sung by the press daily. But, does daily crime such as gang rapes and child molestation, family squabbles and drug war gang shootouts in Soweto, Tokoza, Mitchells Plain, Khayelitsha and the like (not forgetting the high walled suburban suburbs of Sandton and Pretoria) really represent the “crime” potential tourists need to know about? If we are rated as one of the world’s most dangerous countries to live 06
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Or simply comment beneath the website article. in and this is the message that every tourism hush puppy department out there is so gleefully publishing, then we stand no chance of really pulling the high end / big spend tourists to enjoy our actually low crime tourism spots throughout southern Africa! Is it not about high time we got real about our international image as a crime-burdened society and get the facts out there and compare South Africa to the likes of many South American countries, the Middle East, North Africa and various other tourism centres around the world. Muggings on tourists in London, Sydney, New York, Los Angeles or Chicago may actually be more than in Johannesburg? CALL TO ACTION And while they are at it can they settle on what South Africa’s ‘Unique Selling Proposition’ is compared to the rest of Africa - once and for all? In 1995 we already worked out that our USP was obviously that we were the only country in Africa with a first-world infrastructure (tar roads, highways, high rise cities, great hospitals, a willing police force, a respectful legal system, rail network, etc) yet still with access to third-world authentic tribal / rural / and squatter camp communities neighbouring bustling cities and incredible wildlife reserves! What today makes us truly Unique compared to the rest of Africa? Our National Crime Stats? Definitely not. I’m sure your readers will agree. Our record of hosting visitors to southern Africa safely and securely must be exemplary, surely? Lets get the truth published before Indaba 2013 - the Real Crime Stats on Visitors and the USP of what we offer as a region so we can all (every single department and every single tourism role player) put this coordinated message up on our thousands of websites to clear the mis-communication out there. As the premier Big-5 safari destination in Africa (yes, we still have rhino), I would also like to ask the next question. What are the chances of being seriously impacted by violent crime whilst vacationing through our National Wildlife Parks, beaches, wine farms and World Heritage Sites? Let’s include our neighbours such as Botswana, Namibia, Mozambique, Zimbabwe, Swaziland and Lesotho - after all this is still less than a quarter of the size of the USA. Let’s set the record straight now - we are a long-haul destination (expensive) set at the bottom of the earth, representing a serious challenge to would-be travellers to come to our shores. Our Rand is
APRIL 2013
currently at a low exchange value (great for tourists). Let’s give them at least a clear picture of the actual risks of travelling in southern Africa compared to other parts of the world. Then let’s tell them about our combined wonders. Alternatively let’s issue bullet proof vests and armed military escorts to all foreign arrivals as they disembark at O.R. Tambo. Peter Hayward
Posted on 25 March - Blog post comment: Therein lies the catch Peter. The tourism related crime stats reported to TSI to date are so few that one cannot make any meaningful comparisons to the national crime stats. It’s going to take a concerted effort by the South African travel trade to report such crimes directly to TSI, which over time will give us the answers we all seek. Of course Government has a role to play but it’s up to us, as the private sector in tourism, to lobby Government as a collective by using the TSI as a vehicle for change in policy.
Founder and Chief Expeditions Officer Hayward’s Grand Safari Events & Expeditions Thank you Peter for raising this important issue on the Discussion Forum. Whilst we have researched and responded to your comments regarding tourism related crime statistics on our blog, we will keep the debate alive on the Tattler website in the hope that readers will contribute to this discussion topic in the months ahead. As for your second point regarding South Africa’s USP compared to the rest of Africa - we’ve asked SA Tourism to comment. Below are further threads to this discussion - Marjorie Dean, Editor.
One such policy change would be to get local police stations to monitor and report on tourism related crime incidents. SABRIC and the SAICB managed to get their business sectors reported on independently but look at the resources these initiatives have in place.
Posted on 24 March - Forums /General /Crime & Hospitality Security:
Readers are encouraged to read though the blog article, which has hyper-links to the Tourism Safety Initiative (TSI) website and some suggestions on how the local travel trade can get involved - Editor.
There is a solution to this problem - read our blog post ‘Tourism Crime in South Africa? (www.tourismtattler.co.za/tourism-crimein-south-africa/)
There’s no short-term solution but if the travel trade had bought into TSI back in 2007, when the initiative was launched by SATSA, we would by now have had sufficient data to counter the threat to our tourism arrival stats. Des Langkilde
Des Langkilde Executive Editor Tourism Tattler
• Congratulations, PETER.
Posted on 25 March - Blog post comment: Thanks for the response Des. Indeed there are good initiatives about. What I want to know are what are the stats? – specifically Crime on Tourists Stats – per annum for the last 5 years, 2 years, or 1 year. The initiatives still don’t give the facts – without facts the marketplace cannot objectively decide whether their lives are at risk or not when visiting southern Africa. Peter Hayward
Your discussion forum posting has been chosen as the winning comment for March. A set of four Govino Wine Glasses will be delivered to you with the compliments of Livingstones Supply Co – suppliers of the finest products to the hospitality Industry. Editor. •
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APRIL 2013
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AVIATION
Comair launches High Court SAA challenge Comair’s High Court legal challenge to the R5-billion government guarantee to South African Airways (SAA) aims to ensure that government will provide funding to SAA only after consultation with all affected stakeholders and in accordance with government’s Domestic Aviation Transport Policy, writes Des Langkilde. Official government policy and legislation are in place which govern the operation of SAA as a state-owned entity and its competitive relationship with the rest of the aviation industry. Comair states that the current and previous bailouts, which now amount to over R11billion, do not comply with either the Domestic Aviation Transport Policy or the law (the Constitution, the SAA Act, the Promotion of Administrative Justice Act and the Public Finances Management Act).
commercial basis, as is required by existing National Government policy. “Government subsidies and interventions distort any market; the results in the domestic airline sector have been catastrophic with the demise of 10 out of 11 independent, private airlines since deregulation in 1991, with the latest casualty in November 2012. Fair competition is essential to achieve market-related ticket prices, product innovation and consumer choice,” explains Vermooten.
“We regret that we have had to resort to legal action to achieve compliance and have not done so lightly. However, we have no other recourse,” says Comair CEO, Erik Venter.
Speaking at a business breakfast in Midrand on 18 March, Public Enterprises Minister Malusi Gigaba said that, given the pending (Comair) court challenge, he wanted to state that SAA was a government company and the government had a right to participate in the economy.
“Comair’s action, is NOT a challenge to stop all funding of SAA; nor a proposal to privatise, nor challenge the shareholding of SAA; nor an attempt to shut down SAA. Our sole objective is to attain a level playing field in the domestic aviation market to ensure that all airlines face the same risks and the same requirements to operate on sound commercial principles. By receiving government bailouts SAA avoids this commercial reality and this negatively impacts on all current and potential airline operators” says Venter. According to economist and aviation expert, Joachim Vermooten, the R5-billion guarantee enables SAA to artificially increase its scope of operations and sustain losses as a result of not operating on a
“Much has been said about the extent of support that SAA has enjoyed from the fiscus over the past ten years. However, the key question that still requires assessment is whether SAA has been properly capitalised in the first instance,” Gigaba said. Gigaba said that although SAA had incurred losses, those resulted from historical problems which the new long-term strategy, due to be finalised at the end of March, should address. “Comair appreciates the announcement of a SAA turnaround strategy, however Comair is concerned that there have already been eight prior plans, and that this one has a 20-year time horizon. This is unacceptable in an industry where private capital competes with a state-owned enterprise. Comair cannot afford to see this plan unfold over another 20 years. A 20-year plan would furthermore absolve anyone of ultimate responsibility to deliver the entire plan,” says Venter. Azar Jammine, the chief economist at Econometrix, says that while the general consensus is that SAA needs to be totally privatised, the problem is that, if put in the hands of the private sector, the operators of the airline might not be interested in flying to regions where there is not enough traffic, while at the moment SAA fulfills that role by linking small towns and regions that might not be viable from an economic point of view.
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APRIL 2013
New KZN beach resort opportunity available to hospitality and tourism operators The Industrial Development Corporation (IDC), Trade & Investment KZN (TIKZN), KwaZulu-Natal Tourism, Ilembe Enterprise and the Inqaba Trust invite hotel management companies and hotel operators with beach resort experience to participate in the pre-implementation process of the Nonoti Hotel Project. An operator and professional team will be appointed to finalise the resort design and costings, pending completion of the Environmental Impact Assessment. This participation will be converted to a management and marketing agreement of the beach resort should the project progress into the implementation phase. There is also an additional option for the potential hotel operator to consider an equity investment in the project. The Nonoti Hotel Project, a first-of-its-kind beach resort development on the KwaZulu-Natal North Coast, will primarily target the domestic market. The identified project site comprises about 250 hectares of land with beach frontage. The proposed project will include 200 hotel rooms, 100 self-catering rooms, conferencing facilities and restaurants.
Chillibush9258IDC
The successful company should be able to document its past performance and provide references regarding its operations currently under contract. Subject to specific criteria, the successful operator will be involved for the next three to four years before the hotel is operational. However, the hotel operator will only be eligible to receive management fees at the operational phase of the project.
Telephone: +27 86 069 3888 Email: callcentre@idc.co.za To apply online for funding of R1 million or more go to www.idc.co.za
Qualifying criteria are as follows: • Proven experience in operating and managing beach resorts • At least five years’ experience in operating and managing beach resorts • Operating and managing beach resorts of a minimum size of 290 rooms • Operating and managing beach resorts that are multi-graded • Operating and managing beach resorts targeted at the mid-market The following will be taken into consideration during the selection process: • Years in operation • Representation in more than one continent • BEE rating (if South African company or operating in South Africa); if new to the South African market, consideration will be given to the company’s proposed plans to meet the minimum BBEEE criteria • Reputation for sound beach resort management • Reputation for implementing environmental and responsible tourism practices • Having existing target markets that fit well with those proposed for the Nonoti Hotel Project • Operations within the three- and four-star or mid-market • A willingness to work with, support and impart skills to local community members Please contact Tebatso Lewele at tebatsol@idc.co.za
BUSINESS
3 Ways to get your small business loan declined or what NOT to do Financing, when acquired and used wisely, can be a great growth and expansion tool but what are the three most common mistakes that entrepreneurs and small business owners make that makes it impossible for them to get approved for financing? And what happens when these mistakes are made? Writes Tom Gazaway. “If only I could get a small business loan for my business.” What a common thought by many of us! Business owners need small business loans and access to working capital to start, build or grow their businesses. Statistics abound on the reasons why businesses don’t succeed. At the top of those lists of reasons why businesses fail are: • Poor or lacking leadership. • Inadequate or non-existent marketing plan(s). • Not enough access to capital. I would totally agree with the lenders and accountants of the world who also warn against excessive debt. But let’s remember that the excessive debt conversation is almost always about people who use capital poorly. I’ve yet to read case studies about business owners who properly acquired their small business loan or line of credit, then used the financing wisely and strategically, and then failed due to excessive debt. Here are three things that will hurt your chances of getting that small business loan approved. 1. Lack of Strategy You don’t know what your borrowing options are. So you apply for a loan(s) without having any knowledge or strategy behind the plan. In other words, there is no plan. A plan would mean that you know what you can and can’t do, based on the lending solutions that are available to small business owners. When you boil it all down, there are probably 10-12 primary types of debt solutions that do not require you to give up ownership of your business. Do you know what those are and which ones are the best fit for you? Things like credit, industry, seasoning, location, collateral, cash-flow, reserves, your need/purpose, etc. will all be factors that determine your options. Bottom line: With knowledge there is a path forward for you that either gets you that coveted financing now – or later. Get on that path and pursue your objective with a plan.. 2. Failure to Treat Your Credit as an Asset You’re not treating your credit as the asset that it is – or could be. There are a couple of simple facts here. You either have excellent credit that is robust with no blemishes, and low utilization on your credit cards – or you don’t.
business? If you’re part of the 80-90% who have one or more issues with your credit (derogatory items, high revolving debt, etc.), what are you doing to intentionally improve your credit profile? In the world of small business loans, you may not have as many options as you think just because you have great credit. But there are some good options when your credit isn’t so great. The most common error here for small business owners is the improper use of credit cards. Don’t use personal credit cards for business. Why? One reason is because 30% of your credit rating is determined by your utilization percentage. Using personal cards guarantees you will hurt your credit profile. Additionally, not all business cards are created equal. Some business credit cards report every month to your personal credit report. You’ll hurt your credit if you use personal cards for your business. If you think you’re okay because you pay your bill in full each month, then think again. Credit card companies report the balances to the credit bureaus when they cut your statement and not after your due date. So 9 times out of 10, your balances are going to show on your credit report and lower your credit rating. Paying your bill “on time” or “in full” will not change that. 3. Failure to Build and Grow Your Revenue You’re not building and growing your revenue. It’s true that your financing options will increase and get better as your business gets older. However, this is mainly true if you’re growing your company revenue. Remember that business all boils down to innovation and marketing and it’s your marketing plan that will help you grow revenues. Do this and your success, for both your business and financing needs, are within reach. Plans require research. They mean nothing without execution. So your research should bring you to marketing solutions like inbound marketing, content marketing, direct mail, etc. These are the three things that are commonly ignored by small business owners as they grow their companies. Be informed. Knowledge is power. Leaders learn and grow and figure things out. So put yourself in the minority by being prepared for the financing you need to get your business to the next level. Nobody said it was easy. But it’s also not rocket science…thank goodness for that.
If you are part of the 10-20% that have this excellent credit profile, are you protecting and preserving it as you start, build and grow your About the Author. Tom Gazaway is the founder and President of Hawkeye Management. Tom is widely known as the USA’s foremost expert in unsecured lending solutions for small business owners. Formed in 2001, his company specializes in unsecured business lines of credit and small business loan solutions for new and established businesses. They also provide the unsecured business credit fulfillment solutions for over 250 small business loan brokers throughout the country.
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COMPETITION
n A Wine Weekend Away i W
in Stellenbosch, Cape Town
With the compliments of www.lavenir-lodge.com and www.mantiscollection.com
To enter simply ensure that you are opted-in to the Tourism Tattler mailing list by subscribing at http://www.tourismtattler.co.za/subscribe and answer the following question by email:
L’Avenir, meaning ‘The Future’ in French, offers the best of both worlds, with elegant accommodation located in the rolling vineyards of a working wine farm.
“In the foothills of which mountain is L’Avenir Country Lodge located?”
The array of award-winning wines will entice the visitor who takes pleasure in the fruit of the vine. Surrounded by well-tended vineyards and breathtaking views of the majestic mountains of Stellenbosch, this exceptional lodge offers the best of South Africa - award winning wine tasting, 4-star luxury accommodation and true South African hospitality.
Email your answer with Mantis L’Avenir Country Lodge Competition in the subject field to editor@tourismtattler.co.za by 26 April 2013. Remember to include your contact details (Name, company trading name, telephone numbers, city/town, province and country). The first TWO correct entries drawn after the closing date will each win one prize, with the compliments of L’Avenir Country Lodge and Mantis Collection. Two prizes will be awarded, which have a combined value of R19,200.00 and each prize consists of: • Two nights for two people (one couple) in an Icon Suite; • Inclusive of full South Africa breakfast each morning; • One dinner for two; • One wine tasting in the L’Avenir tasting room; • Complimentary 3 bottle L’Avenir wine hamper on arrival in room. Marketed by the Mantis Collection, L’Avenir Country Lodge is located in the foothills of the Simonsberg mountain, five kilometres from the historic town of Stellenbosch and in the heart of the Cape Winelands of South Africa.
Note: Read the Terms and Conditions of this competition, which can be downloaded at: www.tourismtattler.co.za/Downloads/MantisL’AvenirCountryLodge-Competition-TermsConditions.pdf
Read more about L’Avenir Country Lodge in our Hospitality Property Profile section on page 22 WINNER OF THE MANTIS No5 BOUTIQUE ART HOTEL COMPETITION FROM THE MARCH 2013 EDITION CONGRATULATIONS to Marion Hentschel of SALT Concepts Destination Management in Cape Town whose competition entry was the first correct entry to be drawn. Marion has won a Presidential Suite Say & Spa for 2 valued at R10,200.00 and consists of: Two nights for two people sharing in the Zanele Mbeki Presidential Suite, a romantic dinner for two, a ‘his and hers’ massage treatment in the Rock Spa & Gym and a bottle of sparkling wine on arrival. www.no5boutiquearthotel.com / www.mantiscollection.com APRIL 2013
SATSA / RETOSA / NAA-SA Tourism Tattler Trade Journal
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CONSERVATION
SANParks plans ahead with Responsible Tourism Strategy South African National Parks (SANParks) has released its 2022 Responsible Tourism Strategy (2022 RTS), which plans ahead to overcome potential funding shortfalls, adjust to changing visitor needs and embrace community interaction, writes Des Langkilde.
According to Glenn Phillips, SANParks Managing Executive: Tourism and Marketing, the next 10 years will see SANParks doing things differently. “We are not only seeing visitors’ needs and expectation changing but government funding for the National Parks is also changing.”
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“It is this new wave of change that necessitated a new thinking on how tourism in National Parks will be run, measured and developed in the next 10 years,” said Phillips.
One of the major challenges facing SANParks is funding. Conservation areas under the management of SANParks have grown by 558000 hectares since the year 2000, and conservation is an expensive business. “The scope of SANParks’ responsibilities is staggering. Apart from the conservation aspect and ongoing research, there are, for instance, 4 223 kilometres of tourist roads that have to be maintained.”
The new strategy, 2022 RTS, takes its lead from a groundbreaking move that the SANParks Board adopted in 2011, which seeks to define the objectives, guiding principles and values, as well as an implementation and monitoring plan for Nature-Based Responsible Tourism in National Parks. It also incorporates the aims of the National Tourism Sector Strategy (NTSS) launched in 2012 by the National Department of Tourism.
“If we were to extrapolate the last five years Revenue and Operational cost trends over the coming ten years, a scary picture emerges. It is estimated that “profit” from tourism operations should be in the region of around R800 million whilst operational costs are expected to reach around R1,4 billion, that is a massive shortfall…“the fight against the scourge of Rhino poaching has also sucked in significant financial resources that SANParks simply does not have.”
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CONSERVATION
“
“
The change strategy will be well researched with the help of universities, and implemented in a way that will still make visitors with a long tradition of coming to parks feel at home, and without compromising conservation. – Glenn Phillips
Download the 2022 RTS at www.tourismtattler.co.za/downloads/SANPARKS Responsible Tourism 2022.pdf
He said SANParks tourism operates at very high occupancies and the opportunity to grow simply out of annual rate increases is just not sustainable… “Our only option is to develop additional products and services that lend themselves to the natural attributes in each specific park, but to do so in a responsible and sustainable manner, thereby still being able to deliver on the core mandate of biodiversity conservation.” “It is also important to note that this strategy strives to develop better ways in which communities around the National Parks are able to benefit from protecting the parks that they live so close to and which have become a part of their lives… “while at the same time responding to the needs of the new crop of visitors to our National Parks – whose preference is different to those of yesteryear.” “We are confident that with the cooperation of communities surrounding our parks, commitment from our staff and robust sales and marketing, we will be able to overcome whatever challenges
arise. The strategy is an adaptive one, but does provide a guiding light that will need adjusting now and again to give us the required output.” The new crop of visitors that SANParks wishes to attract will still respond to the lure of the wilderness. “But they want to do more than drive around in their car, hoping for a glimpse of the Big Five. They want to be out in the veld, hiking, biking, swimming, canoeing, beachcombing, mountaineering, dining under the stars. They expect more than a rondavel, a clean ablution block and a communal fire. The beauty of the National Parks is that there is room for every yearning; the strength of responsible tourism is that it balances the needs of visitors to the parks with the need for conservation and the aspirations of local communities, making sure that all are sustainable,” concludes Phillips. For more information visit www.sanparks.org
APRIL 2013
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CONSERVATION
Go Wild
Multiple entrance fees to South Africa’s national parks can be a tad expensive for international tourists, but advising them to buy a Wild Card prior to arrival will lessen the blow, writes Des Langkilde. The daily conservation fee for International visitors to the Kruger National Park, for example is R204.00 per adult and R102.00 per child. The annual international fee for a Wild Card is R2,785.00 on an ‘all family cluster’ basis, which entitles the card holder, his or her partner and up to five nominated children to visit all 80 national parks. Let’s assume that your tour group (a family of 2 adults with 3 children under 18 years) are staying outside the Kruger park, the cost of the Wild Card would be recouped in just four visits. Of course as a SADC tour leader, your Wild Card membership would only cost R360.00 as an individual or R745 for a family membership. Your tour group family’s ‘international all parks cluster’ Wild Card would provide them with access to not only SANParks, but also to Msinsi, eZemveloKZN Wildlife, Cape Nature and Swazi Clusters Parks, which makes sense as tourists usually visit other parks in the network during their stay in South Africa.
Is an Individual Card only for Adults? Yes, this card can only be purchased for an Adult (anyone over the age of 18 years), the member must have a valid ID number for South Africans and Passport Number for SADC or International members. Do I have to be married to get a Couple Card? No, the Couple Card is for any two people – there doesn’t have to be any legal connection between them. The Couple Card can be used for two friends, siblings or romantic partners. BOTH parties must be listed with ID or passport numbers. This means the card is specific to the two people listed on it. How many people may be added to a Family Card? The Family card allows for a maximum of seven people added to the card. This could thus be a maximum of two adults and five children or one adult and six children.
“It’s advisable for International tourists to purchase their Wild Card online at least four weeks prior to visiting South Africa. That way the card can be produced and shipped to them prior to their arrival in the country. Many tourists purchase membership after arrival and then expect the card to be immediately available” says Daniel Cornelissen, CRM and Loyalty Manager for Wild Card at SANParks.
If I buy a Wild Card, could I bring a friend along on that card?
Tour Operator Commission
Can SADC residents purchase Local Cluster Cards?
So, if Tour Operators and Travel Agents are going to advise their clients to purchase a Wild Card, shouldn’t they earn a commission on the transaction, I asked Glenn Phillips, SANParks Managing Executive for Tourism and Marketing. “We appreciate that the travel trade is an integral part of our Wild Card distribution network and we are looking into this aspect, but obviously it is a complex arrangement and we need to enable our systems to accommodate this” says Phillips. Wild Card membership is valid from the date of purchase for 365 days and is available for an individual, couple or family and can be purchased online at www.sanparks.org/wild_new/tourism/purchase. php 14
Wild Card Q&A
SATSA / RETOSA / NAA-SA Tourism Tattler Trade Journal
A Wild Card gives access to the people listed on that card. If you want access for two people, you have to buy a Couple Wild Card and enter your friend’s details on your card. The second person on the Couple Card is listed for the duration of the year – you cannot change the details to a new friend for every trip. Only citizens of SADC countries qualify for the same benefits as South African residents. As a SADC citizen, you must provide valid proof of your citizenship when you apply for a Local Cluster Card. You will also be required to show this proof whenever you wish to access one of the partner parks. My partner is a foreigner with an international passport (no residency). Can we get the Couple Card for locals? If your partner has no SA residence/work permit status, the only option would be for you to purchase a South African Individual Wild Card for yourself, an International Wild Card for your partner or an International Couple Card. For more information visit www.sanparks.org/wild_new/
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CONSERVATION
What can tourism do about wildlife poaching?
Silence is not an option Tourism has always used the best shot. Beaches in brochures are enticingly empty or inhabited by immaculately toned models. The sun is setting with the concrete tower block cropped just out of view. Lazy travel clichés paint the best possible verbal pictures too, so that neigbourhoods are relentlessly ‘vibrant’, markets always ‘bustle’, and seas across the world lap aquamarine, turquoise or azure, writes Jeremy Smith. We sell people these holiday ideals, then leave out the bad bits, and hope they will be enjoying themselves too much to complain that it really wasn’t like-what-it-said-in-the-brochure. Nowhere is this more true than in the way we present our most iconic wildlife. Lions, elephants, rhinos and tigers provide the easiest of shorthand when we want to promote our trips. We’ve used the awe they inspire to sell our products – through our websites, brochures, photographs or articles – for decades. Unfortunately, our pin-ups are being driven to the brink of extinction. The numbers Just 13 rhinos were killed by poachers in South Africa in 2007. By 2011, that number rose to 448. Last year, more than 668 were killed this way. (For 2013 Jan to March the number of Rhino poached is 148 - Editor). With numbers growing at this rate, many experts say the black rhino could be heading towards being extinction in South Africa from 2016. Meanwhile, according to CITES, exports of lion bones from South Africa rose 250 per cent between 2009 and 2010 and some 1400 lion and leopard trophies were exported from the country over the same period. As for elephants – a conservative estimate for 2011 puts the figure at more than 25,000 killed for their tusks that year. And tigers? There are more of them in captivity in Texas than there are left in the wild. The illegal trade in dead animal parts is now such big business that Global Financial Integrity estimates its annual profits at roughly $7.8$10 billion, fifth in value behind illegal traffic in drugs, humans, oil and counterfeit. But flick through a travel brochure, or browse the pages of a website selling trips to see some of these animals, and 16
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there will often be little – if any – reference to how desperate the situation has become. Responsible tourism promotion It’s not surprising. We need to sell our articles and promote our holidays in order to get people to go on them. And – or so the prevailing and unchallenged wisdom goes – people don’t want to know about these problems when they are thinking about their holidays. As responsible tourism operators we are supposed to offer authentic experiences and tell the truth about the circumstances surrounding them. Yet this seems to be ignored when it comes to the way we present endangered wildlife to the world. The main argument for this would appear to be along these lines: our job as promoters of tourism is to bring travellers to places. And when we bring them to places where they might see endangered animals, then these tourists can do a great deal for protection and conservation. Their presence deters poachers and the money they spend encourages locals to look after the animals. The story of the growth in mountain gorilla numbers is often cited when explaining these benefits. Likewise, in India this year there was an outcry from conservationists when the government temporarily banned tourism in certain tiger areas – with the conservationists saying this move threatened the survival of the largest cat in the world. And writing in the New Scientist last October, Ralf Buckley, director of the International Centre for Ecotourism Research, explained: “For over half of the red-listed mammal species with available data, at least 5 per cent of all wild individuals rely on tourism revenue to survive. For one in five species – including rhinos, lions and elephants
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CONSERVATION
– that rises to at least 15 per cent of individuals… take it away and animals are killed by hunters. It happens every single day, every time patrols stop or hungry locals lose conservation incentives.” People go to these places in large part because we promote them with images of tigers, gorillas and other iconic species. Maybe that’s where our job starts and ends. And maybe a glossy misrepresentation is a necessary compromise for the delivering of a greater, more important, good. Better that than essential work suffering because we have a crisis of conscience about how we market our trips. Reappraisal But shouldn’t we at least examine these assumptions, and ask not only is our behaviour still responsible, but also, whether we might be able to do something more? After all, we have the eyes and ears of a global audience, all looking to learn from us how and where to spend their money when they go to the places where these animals live. Does it matter, for example, how we present the lure of highly endangered Big 5 ‘trophy’ species to sell our wildlife trips? Should we ensure that we always make some reference to the threats they face whenever we talk about them? After all, most people who come to our websites won’t then go on and book holidays with us – but couldn’t we still help a few of them become more aware of the urgency of these animals’ plight? Shouldn’t we also commit to giving greater visibility on our websites to information and links to those working at the front line to protect these creatures, so they can focus their time on doing their jobs instead of fundraising? Many of these organisations work on shoestring budgets, and their skills are in frontline wildlife conservation. Since we may be better at communicating messages to international consumers and possible donors, should we not at least give over prominent space on our homepages and in our publications to so doing? These animals are the basis of much of the money we earn – tourists simply want to see them more than they do the other animals, and will pay more for the ever-dwindling chance. So isn’t it wrong – to say nothing of short-sighted – for a travel company to profit from these animals, if it does not also donate a percentage of those profits towards direct efforts to ensure their survival? The owners of Lion Sands, which adjoins South Africa’s Kruger Park, seem to think so, as it was reported in November last year that they were donating a portion of their annual tourism income to the Stop Rhino Poaching campaign. At 114,665 ZAR, their first annual donation was the largest ever by a single lodge. Can anyone justify not making more effort to promote the cause of these animals and encouraging their guests to also donate or lobby for greater protection as well? For example, couldn’t companies that run safari lodges ensure that the brochures for relevant wildlifeprotection organisations are inserted in the information folder of every guest and brief their ranger-guides to tell the whole story about the animals guests are shooting with their cameras? A macabre dynamic Might these lodges even rethink the impact of their ‘hunting chic’ interior décor – the endless draping of their sofas and floors with pelts and the hanging of horns on the walls? When supposedly responsible wildlife tourism celebrates and fetishises the act of hunting in this way, doesn’t it undermine efforts to persuade affluent Vietnamese or Chinese consumers that they are wrong to associate the dead remains of such animals with status and virility? Everywhere you look, a macabre dynamic of extinction governs our relationship with these animals. For hunters, the rarer an animal is, the more valuable its trophy becomes, and the more they have to
pay to obtain a license to kill one. So too for tourism – the more ‘endangered’ an animal is, the more people will pay to shoot it with their cameras, and the greater its image’s ‘worth’ in our marketing. But this dynamic only has one ending. To see where that end might be, it would be revealing to analyse the use of critically endangered animals in tourism marketing. At what point did Vietnam, whose last Javan rhino went extinct in 2011, stop using its image as a promotional tool? And when did China stop marketing the Baiji river dolphin, declared extinct in 2007? By way of contrast, the The Northern White rhino was declared only ‘probably extinct’ in 2011. So does ‘probably extinct’ mean it’s still OK to use its image in a brochure? Who decides where we draw the line? If we are to question how we portray these victims, we should also interrogate how we depict the places where trafficked animals end up. For example, shouldn’t responsible tourism companies be explaining to their guests just how many elephants are illegally imported from Burma for use in Thailand’s tourism industry each year? And what of that cliché of tourism promotion I began with – the ‘bustling markets’ where tourists are sold the chance of authentic connection with their destination’s daily life? As we sell these images, shouldn’t we also tell our audience how illegal ivory is readily available at the Khan al-Khalili market in Cairo? Or how Bangkok’s Chatuchak Market is not just a place to pick up knocked off designer goods, but also ‘an international hub for the sale and distribution of endangered species‘? While on safari in South Africa, a ranger told me that he and the other rangers still radio one another to share the location of any exciting wildlife they find. However, they have stopped doing this when they find rhino. They know the poachers are listening in and could use the information to track and kill the animals. For the rangers, the time has come when their best answer is silence. I don’t know what the correct response from the tourism industry is. But isn’t now at least the time for us to talk urgently to one another about how we best use our voices? Before extinction makes silence our only option too. I am working with others in the travel industry to develop an industrywide initiative to address the issues raised in this article. Anyone interested in getting involved or learning more should email me at jeremymcsmith@gmail.com About the Author. Jeremy Smith is a writer and consultant specialising in responsible tourism, and author of Clean Breaks - 500 New Ways to See the World (Rough Guides). Many interesting comments on this article were made on Jeremy’s blog post at http://jmcsmith.co.uk/2013/01/02/ silence-is-not-an-option
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DESTINATIONS
Zimbabwe Awakes As Zimbabwe continues to re-establish its mark on the map of countries to visit in Africa, time efficient and cost effective access to the prime safari areas continues to be a challenge to both operators on the ground as well as tourists visiting the country, writes Shelley Cox Over the last 12 months however, improved transportation options have started to arise as the tourist numbers increase, and access challenges are slowly but surely improving. Previously known for its political instability over the last 14 years, Zimbabwe’s Tourism reeled with the impact and as a result had lain dormant, like a sleeping giant. Agents worldwide removed Zimbabwe from their brochures and only a loyal few continued to support the Zimbabwe operators wherever possible. As an option offered to Tourists looking for unique safari experiences and wildlife encounters in Africa, Zimbabwe was almost completely written off the map. But the sleeping giant has awoken… Agents both regionally and internationally are reintroducing Zimbabwe into their brochures, and more and more tourists are opting for Zimbabwe as their first choice for a safari to Africa. And the confidence is not just external… Local operators in the country are undergoing large-scale refurbishments, and several new camps, lodges and companies are opening up as the country pushes itself back onto the “traveller’s map of Africa”. So why the big hype? Not only does Zimbabwe have a multitude of remote areas which offer diverse landscapes and up close and personal wildlife encounters, but the people within the country are, without a doubt, one of the most welcoming and customer friendly populations in Africa. Whilst the varied locations within Zimbabwe are a traveller’s dream, many of these are based in remote areas where the distance by road is substantial and quite time consuming. For visitors on safari, time spent in the wild is a vital factor, and many do not want to have to spend a large majority of their time on the roads travelling between destinations. For the duration of 2011, Solenta Aviation was operating a daily seat rate charter service for visitors travelling around Zimbabwe, but unfortunately the company closed down in early 2012. In April 2012, having noticed a gap in the market, and in an effort to overcome the access challenges for operators in Zimbabwe, Beks Ndlovu initiated
‘Safari Logistics’, a new Scheduled Charter Service, providing seat rates to the most popular and prime safari areas of Zimbabwe. These areas included Victoria Falls, Hwange, Kariba, Matusadona and Mana Pools. Safari Logistics has proved to be very successful, not only in maintaining the competitive cost of safaris in Zimbabwe in relation to neighbouring countries, but also in meeting an increasing demand of tourists returning to the country and requiring efficient, fast and reliable air access to the varied areas. Several operators are now utilizing the service for their clients, and other Charter Companies are now exploring the option of offering seat rates to clients in an effort to open up the access in Zimbabwe. One thing is for certain, as the number of travellers to the country continues to increase, so too do options of cheaper transportation around the country. Watch this space as Zimbabwe continues to make its come back as one of the most popular destinations in Africa.
About the author: Shelley Cox is the marketing manager for African Bush Camps – a small and independently owned African-based company run by one of Africa’s top safari guides Beks Ndlovu and his wife Sophia. In early 2012, Safari Logistics was founded in Zimbabwe to provide a much needed Scheduled Seat Rate Service for cost effective air access to prime safari destinations. African Bush Camps is also involved in supporting numerous community focused and wildlife conservation projects, including the Dete Community in Hwange National Park, the Khwai community in Moremi and the H2O Hwange Campaign. For more information visit: www.africanbushcamps.com
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EVENTS
BRICS Africa
A boost for Tourism The fifth Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa (BRICS) summit, which ended in Durban on March 27, resulted in several significant agreements, including the creation of a BRICS Business Council. However, the real benefit to the country from a tourism perspective lies in the global media exposure afforded through hosting the event, writes Des Langkilde.
Commenting on the BRICS Summit, Michael Tatalias, CEO of the Southern Africa Tourism Services Association (SATSA) said that South Africa and the region as a destination received extensive media coverage and cemented South Africa’s reputation as a host of large events and conferences. “With the run of bad news of late (from Marikana to Nkandla to Oscar Pistorius), we have needed some balancing good news. I trust and hope that the external marketing agencies – Brand South Africa, DIRCO, SA Tourism – all use the exposure and leverage it a bit further to keep the positive shine on our destination”. “Personally, I had hoped to see more useful outputs from BRICS, aside from the proposed development bank, along the lines of increased focus on improving air and sea routes between the BRICS countries themselves and fellow developing countries. With improved air links comes the benefit of increased trade and tourism – exactly what is needed to achieve the intentions of BRICS to restructure the flow of business away from that dominated by the western world. Maybe we can continue to drive this discussion in the remainder of the year that SA sits as the chair of the BRICS process” concluded Tatalias. South African mining magnate, Patrice Motsepe was named chairman of the newly formed BRICS Business Council. The BRICS countries have each nominated five business leaders to make up the council. The four other South Africans who will serve on the body are Business Unity SA CEO Nomaxabiso Majokweni, Zungu Investment Company executive chairman Sandile Zungu, Sekunjalo Investments CEO Iqbal Surve, and Transnet CEO Brian Molefe. The Durban International Convention Centre hosted the event in partnership with the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) and the Development Bank of Southern Africa. “The Summit is an important opportunity to strengthen ties with our partners in the BRICS bloc and to build on existing trade relations” commented Julie-May Ellingson, CEO of the Durban ICC. “The event was also an excellent opportunity to showcase our capabilities as an award-winning international convention centre. The Durban ICC is well suited for events of this nature and we have successfully hosted many complex events for heads of state and othe high profile delegations.” added Ellingson. Leaders of the BRICS nations in attendance, namely President Dilma Rousseff of Brazil, Russian President Vladimir Putin, India’s Prime Minister Manmohan Singh, President Xi Jinping of China and South
South African President Jacob Zuma and Russian President Vladimir Putin at the BRICS Summit in Durban, South Africa. Image courtesy of Durban ICC. Africa’s President Jacob Zuma met to discuss a multitude of issues — from the traditional discussion on restructuring the global economy, to undertaking real actions on the project to establish a BRICS development bank. Yet not all of the issues on the agenda resulted in agreements. The disputes over the bank relate to what it would do and how it would provide an equitable return on the initial investment of about US$10bn. Despite the statement by South African President Jacob Zuma that, “We instructed finance ministers to look into this matter and are ready to launch the bank,” the BRICS bank project seems as far as ever from being launched. The member states cannot agree on the location of the bank (each state would like to host it), the membership fees and the projects to be financed by the joint bank (either exclusively BRICS projects or third-party projects as well). Leonid Gusev, an expert at the Institute for International Studies of Moscow State University, doubts that a BRICS bank can be effective at this stage. “BRICS consists of the economic heavyweights, such as China and India, but the Chinese economy is so closely integrated with that of America that they almost have a common market. The same holds for India, so it is highly unlikely that these ties will be broken,” said Gusev. “Everything will depend on the developments in the U.S. and the eurozone,” he added. Fyodor Lukyanov, editor-in-chief of the journal Russia in Global Affairs, mentioned the club phenomenon when commenting on the current status of BRICS and the fifth summit. “It is a community where there should be no specific goals,” he said. “Its existence and frequent meetings are the essence of the bloc. The very existence of BRICS and its format suit the objectives and approaches of Russia’s foreign policy — not against but bypassing the West.”
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EVENTS
RETOSA EVENTS CALENDAR - APRIL 2013 Date
Event
Description
Venue
LESOTHO TBA
Junior Roof Motorcycle and Quads
The Roof is considered to be the most important off-road event in Southern Africa and highly capricious because of the altitude involved.
Maloti Mountains
SEYCHELLES 24-25 April
Fete Afrique
(Ministry of Culture)
TBA
25 April
Africa Day
(Ministry of Culture)
TBA
SOUTH AFRICA 27 April
Independence Day
SWAZILAND 02 – 03 April
Swazi Expo
19 April 25 April
King’s Birthday National Flag Day
The Swazi Expo is the collective name for a group of 10 different expositions and fairs. It includes shows for women entrepreneurs on tourism, technology, agriculture, light engineering, food, fashion, motor show and others. Celebrating King Mswati III’s Birthday. Another Swazi holiday remembering this day in 1968, when the country’s very own flag was hoisted, replacing the British flag after gaining independence.
Mavuso Trade & Exhibition Centre National National
TANZANIA 07 April
Karume Day
26 April
Union Day
Commemoration of the death of the Vice President Sheikh Abeid Karume Commemoration of the union between Zanzibar and Tanganyika, into the United Republic of Tanzania, 1964
National National
ZAMBIA 25 – 27 April
Zambia International Travel Expo (ZITE)
Travel & Tourism Expo both Trade and Consumer
Mulungushi International Conference Centre, Lusaka
ZIMBABWE 18 April
Independence Day
20 – 28 April
Asambeni
The purpose of this day is to celebrate the democracy of former Rhodesia, which is currently known as Zimbabwe, headed by a President, from its British colonizers.
National
This is a tourism showcase for sub-Saharan Africa. It is a full scale tourism exhibition held in Bulawayo which accommodates large and small operators including specialised suppliers to the tourism suppliers to the tourism industry. The emphasis is on adventure, culture and eco-tourism.
Bulawayo
RETOSA Annual Events Calendar
RETOSA has launched an annual events calendar aimed at keeping the travel trade informed on forthcoming events in each of the 14 RETOSA member countries, namely: Angola, Botswana, DR Congo, Lesotho, Malawi, Mauritius, Mozambique, Namibia, Seychelles, South Africa, Swaziland, Tanzania, Zambia and Zimbabwe. Each month’s events will be published in the Tourism Tattler and the full year’s events for each country can be downloaded at: www.tourismtattler.co.za/donwloads/retosa2013calendarofevents.pdf 20
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APRIL 2013
EVENTS
Namibia to host 2013 Adventure World Travel Summit a stable, forward-looking, progressive country open for visitors and investment alike, by showcasing its unique tourism offering coupled with a steady and established business sector.
Namibia has been chosen as the destination to host the Adventure World Travel Summit in 2013, from 26 to 31 October 2013, writes Jean Haupt. Held on an annual basis, the Adventure Travel World Summit (ATWS) brings together decision makers of the global tourism industry, as well as travel enthusiasts keeping abreast of current tourism trends. According to the organisers of the summit, the Adventure Travel Trade Association (ATTA) “Namibia offers one of the most compelling success stories in tourism today, one of joint venture tourism and partnerships between communal conservancies and tourism enterprises,” said ATTA President Shannon Stowell. “Namibia’s model of conservancies, joint venture partnerships and conservation is a model that we should put on display. It’s a story that should be told. I’d previously heard the discussions, watched the films and I still didn’t understand it fully it until I came and saw it in action. Our delegates are sure to gain immense insights from their experiences in Namibia.” For the first time ever, the ATWS will be hosted in Africa which will result in not only creating awareness of this diverse travel destination, but will also yield positive returns to the Namibian economy in terms of increased tourism bookings and future arrivals, with direct economic impacts for Namibia as host of this international event. This event can also further improve the diplomatic positioning of brand Namibia as
While Swakopmund is the designated summit venue, the official opening is planned for Namibia’s capital city, Windhoek. The conference is set to provide an excellent and extensive marketing platform for Namibia, as the conference will attract tourism executives from around the world who specialise in adventure tourism which includes nature, wildlife, volunteer tourism, adventure sports and ecotourism. Pre- and post-tour options are definitely worth considering for ATWS delegates. From the sun-kissed dunes of Sossusvlei, complete with hot air balloon rides providing breathtaking views over the southern Namib Desert, to adventure activities for adrenalin junkies in Swakopmund in the form of quad biking and sand boarding or even some spectacular game viewing in the famous Etosha region, Namibia is a land worth exploring. Visit Namibia’s World Heritage at Twyfelfontein with its massive open-air art gallery, consisting of delicate rock art drawings; or take the opportunity to boost your knowledge of Namibia’s heritage and culture with a visit to Windhoek’s museums, monuments and art galleries. For more information visit www.namibiatourism.com.na or www.adventuretravel.biz
Unearthing the Exceptional...
Our collection of privately owned boutique hotels and eco escapes were carefully selected to induce unforgettable journeys to some of the most remarkable places on earth. Enjoy exceptional accommodation, magnificent wildlife, hypnotic landscapes and world-class hospitality, while our strong commitment to conservation of the environment and exploration ensures a luxurious, yet responsible travel experience.
Privately owned Boutique Hotels and Eco Escapes
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APRIL 2013
SATSA / RETOSA / NAA-SA Tourism Tattler Trade Journal
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HOSPITALITY
A Country Lodge in the Vineyards L’Avenir, meaning ‘The Future’ in French, is nestled in the valley below the magnificent Simonsberg Mountains in the heart of the Stellenbosch Winelands. The Country Lodge at L’Avenir offers the best of both worlds, with elegant accommodation and the rolling vineyards of a working wine farm, writes Des Langkilde. L’Avenir Country Lodge is located five kilometres from the historic town of Stellenbosch and in the heart of the Cape Winelands of South Africa. Surrounded by well-tended vineyards and breathtaking views, this newly renovated lodge offers the best of South African wine tasting and 4-star luxury accommodation. Oenotourism (wine tourism) is aptly catered for, where guests can start the day with a leisurely breakfast indoors or on the wooden deck, with sweeping views of the dam, rolling vineyards and mountains. Then later simply relax alongside the pool and enjoy a glass of L´Avenir´s award-winning wines accompanied by fresh olives, which are also grown on the estate. Follow this with a free wine
tasting in the tasting room, a stroll through the vineyards or a picnic at the dam watching the many bird species that have also made this their home. Light meals and dinners are available on request and groups can enjoy a traditional South African braai (BBQ) around the ´African Boma´ under ancient Oak trees. For more information visit: www.mantiscollection.com/lavenir-country-lodgestellenbosch/
L’AVENIR COUNTRY LODGE - FACT SHEET AT A GLANCE Location: Stellenbosch, Cape Town, South Africa Coordinates: Latitude: 33°53’18.7”S : Longitude = 18°50’59.1”E Type: Country Lodge & Wine Estate Star Rating: 4-Star (TGCSA) Eco Certification: No TOMSA Registered: Yes Disabled friendly: No Rooms: 2 x Icon Suites, 4 x Platinum rooms and 5 x Classic rooms Capacity: 22 beds in 11 rooms and suites STO Rates: Available on application Facilities: Rooms: Air Conditioning, Ceiling Fan, Complimentary Tea and Coffee, Safe, En-Suite Bathrooms, TV with selected satellite, Hairdryer and Shaving Point, Guest Amenities, Laundry and Dry Cleaning Service, en-suite Telephone, Garden Facing Terrace. Lodge: Concierge Services, Guest Computer, Complimentary Wine Tasting for In House Guests, Full English and Continental Breakfast, Communal Lounge with Fireplace Activities: Wine Tasting, Vineyard Walks, Tasting Room Tours, Day Tours to Surrounding Farms, Shopping, Fishing, Bird Watching, Boule, Walking Trails, Outdoor Swimming Pool and Sun Beds, Barbeque/Braai Entertainment Area Spa: No Gym: No Parking: Free parking WiFi: Complimentary WiFi Access Restaurants / Bars: Light meals available on request. Honesty bar in communal lounge Business facilities: No Conference facilities: No L’Avenir County Lodge is marketed by the Mantis Collection. Mantis offers a full suite of marketing related services and activities that include international sales, public relations, strategy implementation and new media marketing techniques relating to the world wide web, social media and other key web marketing initiatives. Mantis is made up of five business divisions, they include Mantis Management, Mantis Development, Mantis Conservation, Mantis Marketing and Mantis Education. For more information visit: http://www.mantiscollection.com/
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Republic of Hout Bay Cape Town’s Hout Bay is not only famous for its fresh fish and busy harbour, but also as the “Republic of Hout Bay”. Back in the late 1980’s local businesses supported the the Lions and Rotary Clubs to raise funds for charity by selling officiallooking passports at the three entrances to Hout Bay. Numerous tourists were even able to convince immigration officers around the world to stamp their Hout Bay passports. Urban legend has it that someone used his Republic of Hout Bay passport to travel around the world, without anybody noticing his false document. Ever since this successful campaign, Hout Bay has become a popular tourist attraction among both local and international visitors. There is a variety of restaurants in the village as well as many bed and breakfasts and self-catering accommodation establishments. One such establishment is The Tarragon. This 4-star rated self catering property offers five cottages, each created out of Cape sandstone and individually designed and furnished in a sleek, modern style that belies the country setting. Nestled high up on the wooded southern slopes of Table Mountain, The Tarragon commands dramatic views over the Hout Bay valley. With over 8000m2 of grounds, the overwhelming atmosphere is one of space, tranquillity and a certain aloofness from the rest of the world.
Each cottage offers intimate privacy with its own shady veranda, and with the many different terraces and lawns within the landscaped grounds every guest can escape entirely from the others. Backing on to the property is part of the Table Mountain National Park, and there are numerous hiking trails within a stone’s throw. Peacocks, butterflies and dragonflies highlight the remote setting, and yet the bustling city is just a twenty minute scenic drive away. Ideally situated to explore all the Cape Peninsula has to offer, The Tarragon is a fabulous base for honeymoon couples or tour groups. The Tarragon is just: • 5 mins drive to nearest beaches; • 5 mins drive to nearest shops and restaurants; • 25 mins drive from the city centre; • 30 mins drive from Cape Town International airport. The famous Chapmans Peak Drive, three beautiful, unspoilt beaches with magnificent views (Hout Bay, Sandy Bay and Llandudno) are all only five minutes away. The city centre and waterfront are a scenic twenty minute drive, or in ten minutes you could be wine tasting at a Constantia wine estate. Owners of The Tarragon, Mark and Julia Fleming await your group tour or wedding reception enquiries. For more information visit: www.thetarragon.com
BE OUR GUEST
Travel Agents and Tour Operators are invited to to see for themselves what The Tarragon has to offer. Viewing by appointment.
Contact: MARK & JULIA FLEMING +27 (0)21 791 4155 or +27 (0)76 191 7755 info@thetarragon.com • www.thetarragon.com APRIL 2013
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Warm and Welcoming
Natal Spa Hot Springs and Leisure Resort Gooderson Leisure – A South African company for South African people. That’s what their marketing material says. And on a recent visit to the lovely Natal Spa resort by Tattler Editor Marjorie Dean there was an opportunity to see just how the company lives up to its promise. Photos © Colin Dean.
Natal Spa resort is set in 550 hectares of bushveld scenery alongside the Bivane River. It is about four and a half hours’ easy drive from Gauteng, and is signposted from the R33, about 15 km out of Paulpietersburg. For most of the way it’s a good road, and passes through some lovely Highveld scenery before the land drops down through hills and wooded valleys to the coastal plain. The property is covered in huge granite boulders, and this has contributed in no small measure to some of its rather interesting architectural quirks. The Spa came into existence in the late 1880s after the discovery on the property of hot springs, which well up from the ground at temperatures between 36 and 45 degrees Celsius. These hot waters are rich in minerals, and have healing properties, so over the years the resort developed from a tiny tearoom on a campsite, where you brought your own tent, to the gracious resort that we can visit today. The hotel is a three-star property, and of a high standard for threestars, and has 60 rooms. These include double, twin, and interleading family rooms as well as nine luxury king suites. True to Goodersons’ policy this is a resort that is particularly suitable for the local market – and especially for families. It was taken over by the company in 2006, and since then huge effort has gone into refurbishing and modernising the whole resort, while not losing sight of its original appeal as a place to relax and enjoy in true South African style. For overseas visitors it’s a chance to see South Africa and its people in a new and friendly way enjoying a holiday in their own country. As well as hotel accommodation, there are 23 self-catering apartments, that sleep four or six, and 12 timeshare units. And for those who like a secure camping experience 32 individual campsites for caravans and tents are now available – and very popular, if the weekend we visited was anything to go by.
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Family atmosphere The first thing that struck me, while on the terrace enjoying a very late lunch from the Bistro restaurant, open from 10a.m to 10p.m daily, was that this really is a family resort – the place was full of children, and their happy laughter was the background to most of our visit. The staff genuinely enjoy having the youngsters around, and are never too busy to chat to them, and keep an eye on them. Mealtimes were fun, and the good food on offer was plentiful, healthy and child friendly, while dishes for more discerning adults were also available. The dining room rather took me back to the kind of holidays our family enjoyed in South Africa, especially in KwaZulu-Natal, many years ago. Food is served buffet-style, so you can eat as much (most of us) or as little as you want. It would satisfy even the hungriest teenager! Behind the buffet on a curving wall is a superb huge mural, painted many years ago, and thankfully kept. It shows the scenery around the hotel, together with the trees, plants, birds and animals you are likely to see, if you turn around and look out of the window. For this resort has a truly natural setting – with indigenous plants and trees everywhere among the Big Rocks that give the dining room its name. Much to our delight, the resident dassies feature prominently, and we spent a lot of time on walks enjoying their antics in and around the boulders where they live. Activities There are plenty of activities for children of all ages. Newly resurfaced tennis courts, and a bowling green that has been most carefully resown are formal sports; there are trampolines and snooker tables, horse and pony riding and quad bikes. A mountain bike
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track to challenge riders of all ages is almost complete. And there is a Wellness Centre, with all kinds of gym equipment, as well as a wave pool, plunge pool and two jacuzzis. An animal petting farm is due to open shortly, and an obstacle course is being constructed to challenge conference delegates looking for a bit of team building. If you feel a little pampering is in order, the Italian-style Cellu Beauty spa offers to-to toe treatments for both singles and couples, as well as a range of exclusive imported beauty products. And of course there are the thermal pools, reached by a steeply sloping path down to the riverbank. If you’d rather take the adventurous route, there is the longest waterslide in KZN, that whisks you down at high speed into a deep pool where mom or dad is waiting to catch you. ( I did notice that some of the younger Moms and Dads had a go at the waterslide themselves, with huge enjoyment! And the dassies playing below were not in the least fazed!) There’s the shallow Dome Pool, perfect for toddlers, shaded from the heat of the sun by an exotic blue roof, with skylights, and a couple of larger and deeper pools, all with places to swim or seats around the side if you’re not so energetic. The pools are immaculately maintained, sparkling clean and with water that is changed weekly, but coming from the hot springs. Around the pools are well kept braai places under shady trees, very popular with the campers and day visitors. There are also good braai facilties at both self catering apartments and timeshare apartments. Birding Natal Spa is on the KwaZulu Natal Birding Route, and Simon, who is a cleaner at the hotel, is also a qualified, and most knowledgeable bird guide who takes guided bird walks on the property. His knowledge is truly amazing. We joined him on Sunday morning before breakfast (our visit coincided with some very hot weather). Just strolling around the property for an hour we found so many different habitats, home to a huge variety of species, from crowned eagles (who have a nest) to the tiny whiteyes. We later counted 34 species. Decor Decor throughout the hotel is contemporary, but comfortable. One senses the experienced and tasteful hand of Judith Gooderson at work here. Rooms have been newly repainted and refurbished to a high standard, with some interesting photographs and drawings on the walls. Colours are subdued and warmly earthy tones. Some rooms have elegant verandahs, well shaded and supplied with daybeds and comfortable chairs. Bathrooms are well equipped with new baths and showers, and it is kind of taken for granted that everything works!
Staff Perhaps the greatest asset of Natal Spa is its staff. General Manager Ryan Smith, is passionately committed to creating and offering the best family resort in South Africa, and that passion rubs off on his staff, from F&B manager Jason Smuts through to Shay Peters, Rooms Division Manager, and Themba our attentive waiter, and the lovely young lady who cleaned our room. The people who work here, most of them locals from the surrounding area, are happy, and it shows. They are keen to give the best service, and to show a friendliness not always seen in such a large establishment. They are also extremely well trained, and a credit to Goodersons’ methods. Every staff member we met, passed in the corridors or came across outside in the grounds, greeted us with a smile and a pleasant remark.
Conference Facilities Room
Banquet U-Shape Classroom Cinema Buffet
Dumbe
-
50
70 120 60
Pivaan
-
30
45 100 50
Boardroom
10 Boardroom Tables
Indaba Room -
10
15
20 -
Boulders Bar 30 Casual Seating Lapa Area
30-50 Semi Formal
Natal Spa also has a charming wedding venue, under shady trees, and offers wonderful opportunities for photographs. You are also assured that on any day, yours will be the only wedding at this venue. To sum up, Natal Spa is a work in progress. A rather tired old lady has been upgraded and uplifted. Huge amounts of work have been done on the resort, in its rooms and on the Gardens and Grounds. There is still more to be completed and the staff are welcoming the forthcoming challenges with enthusiasm. Most of the outstanding work will be completed before the end of 2013. Natal Spa offers excellent value for money, a warm traditional South African welcome, and excellent service. The varied accommodation meets the needs of all its visitors. “Good value, good fun”? Most certainly! And a place to create happy memories. For more information visit: http://goodersonleisure.co.za/natal-spa-resort/
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HOSPITALITY
Luxury African River Safari Why join the land-lubbers on game drives when you can view Africa’s wildlife from your own private suite aboard a luxury 45 metre boat? The Zambezi Queen is all about pampering, indulgence, and superior comfort, writes Des Langkilde.
The Zambezi Queen is definitely the way to view game as this floating hotel cruises the Chobe River, which divides Namibia’s Caprivi Strip from Botswana’s Chobe National Park. The river’s exotic banks boast one of the densest populations of wildlife on the African continent as it flows into the Zambezi River where four countries meet, namely Zimbabwe, Zambia, Botswana and Namibia. Teeming with life, the magnificent Chobe National Park sprawls across some 11,000km of lush African bush, and is home to the largest population of elephants in the world – currently estimated at 120,000. The Zambezi Queen is conveniently located about 80km from both Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe and Livingstone Zambia and 3km from Kasane International Airport, all of which have international airports and operate regular scheduled flights out of Johannesburg, with Kasane been ideally suited to charter flights. Transfers from airport to the boat are by road and take approximately 90 minutes. Road transfer guests are collected from immigration situated on the banks of the river at Kasane in Botswana for the 10 minute boat transfer to Zambezi Queen’s docking station. But even with its supurb location and facilities, it’s people and service excellence that make the Zambezi Queen a memorable experience. In October 2012, The Zambezi Queen was purchased by the award winning Mantis Group. Ensuring the smooth running of this luxury vessel, is the operations management team consisting of Vicky and Wayne Nel, Manager Vincent and their enthusiastic team. For more information visit: www.mantiscollection.com/zambeziqueen/ or www.zambeziqueen.com The Zambezi Queen is marketed by the Mantis Collection. Mantis offers a full suite of marketing related services and activities that include international sales, public relations, strategy implementation and new media marketing techniques relating to the world wide web, social media and other key web marketing initiatives. Mantis is made up of five business divisions, they include Mantis Management, Mantis Development, Mantis Conservation, Mantis Marketing and Mantis Education. For more information visit: http://www.mantiscollection.com/
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ZAMBEZI QUEEN FACT SHEET AT A GLANCE Location: Chobe River, Botswana Coordinates: Latitude = 17°49’0”S : Longitude = 25°8’60”E Type: Luxury House Boat Star rating: N/A Eco Certification: No TOMSA registered: N/A Disabled friendly: No Rooms: 10 x Suites and 4 x en-suite Master Suites Capacity: 28 beds (or 14 double beds) in 14 rooms STO Rates: Available on application Facilities: Double or single bed configuration, En-suite bathrooms, Private balconies, Full length sliding shutters, Sliding mosquito net doors, Floor mounted fan, Private safe. Services: Open-plan air conditioned lounge and dining area protected by mosquito screens, Two outside areas on the top deck including a pool and sun bathing area, Complimentary Local beers and wines during activities and meals. Activities: Water-based game viewing on smaller boats, Tiger and bream fishing, Bird watching, Star Gazing, Land based Cultural village tour Spa: No Gym: No Parking: Secure parking at launch site WiFi: No Restaurants / Bars: Onboard dining and bar Business facilities: No Conference facilities: No
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Beach & Bush in Port Alfred
Oceana Beach & Wildlife Reserve in Port Alfred, Eastern Cape, South Africa offers ultra-luxurious accommodation that includes a select group of unique guest suites in the Ocean Lodge and Private Ocean House as well as spectacular individual private chalets, writes Des Langkilde. “After travelling the world, I discovered the place closest to my heart. Oceana. The first time I beheld the collection of natural wonders, something extraordinary happened as I embraced the expanse of its exotic beauty - it embraced me!” says the owner, Rip Miller. It’s easy to share Miller’s passion when one considers that Oceana is one of the few places in Africa to combine beach, bush and wildlife in one experience. Situated in the malaria-free Eastern Cape region, Oceana has seven kilometres of private beachfront, overlooking the Indian Ocean. Oceana offers a unique variety of luxury suites, each allowing guests spectacular bush and sea views, surrounded by bushbuck, birds and other wildlife including rhino and buffalo. All suites can accommodate a maximum of two adults per suite. Children are accommodated with adults in the Ocean Suites. Available accommodation options are: Lodge Suites. Three Lodge Suites are situated within the main lodge buidling – each with a private deck, offering beautiful views of the bush and ocean. Ocean Suites. These are free standing units, beautifully placed amongst the trees, each with private decks, offering spectacular ocean and bush views. Private Ocean House. This is a sole-use option for small groups (a minimum of 4 adults, and maximum of 6 adults), offering three suites; each with a king-sized bed. A private deck runs around the front of the house, giving unique views over the bush and ocean. Exclusive to the house also, is a heated Jacuzzi plunge pool. Whilst the accommodation and facilities are alluring in and of themselves, the properties beachfront location and teeming wildlife demand distraction. For more information visit www.mantiscollection.com/oceana-beach-wildlife-reserve/
Oceana Beach & Wildlife Reserve is marketed by the Mantis Collection. Mantis offers a full suite of marketing related services and activities that include international sales, public relations, strategy implementation and new media marketing techniques relating to the world wide web, social media and other key web marketing initiatives. Mantis is made up of five business divisions, they include Mantis Management, Mantis Development, Mantis Conservation, Mantis Marketing and Mantis Education. For more information visit: http://www.mantiscollection.com/
Safari game drives, weddings and honeymoons are a specilaity.
OCEANA BEACH & WILDLIFE RESERVE FACT SHEET AT A GLANCE Location: Situated 150km from Port Elizabeth Airport. Coordinates: Latitude = 33°33’438”S : Longitude = 26°58”669”E Type: Safari Lodge Star rating: 5-star (TGCSA) Eco Certification: No TOMSA registered: No Wheelchair friendly: No Rooms: 3 x Lodge suites in the main lodge building, 4 x Ocean suites - free standing units, 1 x Private Ocean House Capacity: 20 beds in 8 Suites / Units STO Rates: Available on application Facilities: Lodge: Curio Shop, Library, Lounge with spectacular view, Central Bar Area, Rock Pool with sun Loungers. Suites: Individual temperature-control and bathroom under floor heating, Private wooden deck, Handcrafted furnishings, antiques and artifacts, Custom-made super king-size beds, Spacious bathrooms featuring a walk-in shower, jacuzzi bath, a ‘his and hers’ vanity area, Large lounge area, Satellite TV, DVD, worldwide plugs and converters, Wi-fi and In-room safe. Services: Tours and Transfers by arrangement Activities: Beach Walks, Rock and Surf Fishing, Pétanque (a form of bowls), 5 hole Putting Green, Texas Pitching Washers (similar to horseshoes game), Games Room and Home Theatre, Star gazing, Evening Boma Fire and Game Drives. Spa: Yes Gym: Yes Parking: Secure on-site parking WiFi: Complimentary Wireless Internet Restaurants / Bars: Bar in main lodge Business facilities: Wireless connectivity in each suite Wedding facilities: Cater to parties from 20 to 120 guests. Venue hire includes: Sole use of Oceana Wildlife Reserve for the day of the wedding, Bedouin tent to cover the Courtyard area, Round tables, chairs and covers for seating 8 to 10 persons, White table linen. Crockery and a full set of cutlery, Wine and Champaign glasses as well as Ice buckets, Cake and Gift Table and Full bar Service. Accommodation packages available at special rates.
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LEGAL
The CPA and SUPPLIER
Rights & Recourse STATUS OF INDEMNITIES AND DISCLAIMERS – PART 3 – What you have to do about: 1. Your Current and 2. Future Documentation.
The first thing to bear in mind is that making your indemnities, waivers and terms and conditions CPA compliant is not the be all and end all of the CPA. It goes much wider and you have to vet all your promotional material, contracts, documentation (pertaining to your Critical Transactional Path – ‘CTP’), signage, instructions and your physical transactional path and contracts with all suppliers and marketers of your products and services.
ultimately do all the above but want to start with your disclaimers and and indemnities then do the following: • Deal with gross negligence – delete; • Ensure the wording is plain, comprehensive and understandable; • All signage must, over and above the aforesaid, be conspicuous and rather be over than under used; • Train your staff to have a good understanding of the CPA and to have a consistent approach to clients; • Comply with sections 48 and 49 i.e. don’t try and ‘sweep the indemnity/disclaimer under the carpet’ otherwise it will haunt you if there is ever complaint – bring it to the attention of the client as required and if in addition there are risks that you have to explain, do so; • Discuss the above with your insurance broker, especially the consequences if an indemnity or waiver is found to be nonapplicable, or that despite such a document, liability arises in terms of section 61 i.e. ‘irrespective of negligence’. Finally it is imperative that you train all your staff: it is not necessary that they are able to quote the CPA ‘chapter and verse’ but it is imperative that they: • Know about the CPA; • Know what to do and what not to do; • Know why that is the case; • Can explain it to the customer; • Are subjected to a disciplinary procedure for non-compliance. Disclaimer: This article is intended to provide a brief overview of legal matters pertaining to the travel and tourism industry and is not intended as legal advice. © Adv Louis Nel, BENCHMARK, April 2013.
Change as soon as possible as you run a risk if you, for example, try and use up your current documentation. Assuming you will
Debt collection. Cashflow is the lifeblood of any business - bad debts threaten viability. SJA assists, from issueing summonses to executing judgements. Contact: tinal@savage.co.za
Commercial. Registration of companies, trademarks & searches. Drawing up of contracts - leases, sales of business, joint ventures, partnerships & franchises. Contact: jonathanh@savage.co.za
Liabilities. Specialising in Professional Indemnity, Insurance Law, Travel and Tourism liability. Contact: waynef@savage.co.za
Commercial. Corporate Advisory Services, Liquidations, Commercial Contracts, Company Registrations and Intellectual Property Law. Contact: hennies@savage.co.za Labour and Administrative Law. Specialising in Labour Law as well as public and private partnerships in the environmental context. Contact: mariuss@savage.co.za
Personal Injury. SJA’s specialist departments have many years of experience with the Road Accident Fund and this area of the law. Contact: robh@savage.co.za Property. Specialising in Sectional Title and Game Lodge development conveyancing matters. Contact: marleeng@savage.co.za
Johannesburg: Pretoria: (011) 325 0830 (012) 452 8200 E-mail: info@savage.co.za
www.savage.co.za
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MARKETING
Market Intelligence Report The information below was extracted from available data as at 25 March 2013, writes Martin Jansen van Vuuren.
ARRIVALS The latest available data from Statistics South Africa is for January to November 2012: Current period
Change over same period last year
UK
389 625
4.7%
Germany
238 691
12.7%
USA
299 755
14.4%
India
97 664
18.1%
China
122 482
58.3%
Overseas Arrivals (excl same day visitors)
2 262 044
16.0%
African Arrivals
6 030 685
8.6%
Total Foreign Arrivals
8 316 594
10.5%
NB: African Arrivals plus Overseas Arrivals do not add to Total Foreign Arrivals due to the exclusion of unspecified arrivals, which could not be allocated to either African or Overseas.
HOTEL STATS The latest available data from STR Global is for January to February 2013: Current period
Average Room Occupancy (ARO)
Average Room Rate (ARR)
Revenue Per Available Room (RevPAR)
All Hotels in SA
62.7%
R 1 010
R 633
All 5-star hotels in SA
66.8%
R 1 830
R 1 222
All 4-star hotels in SA
63.1%
R 958
R 605
All 3-star hotels in SA
60.8%
R 761
R 463
Change over same period last year All Hotels in SA
9.7%
8.9%
19.4%
All 5-star hotels in SA
12.2%
7.7%
20.9%
All 4-star hotels in SA
6.9%
9.7%
17.3%
All 3-star hotels in SA
11.5%
8.3%
20.8%
Passengers arriving on Regional Flights
Passengers arriving on Domestic Flights
ACSA DATA
The latest available data from ACSA is for January to February 2013: Change over same period last year Passengers arriving on International Flights OR Tambo International
4.1%
-0.2%
-8.7%
Cape Town International
-6.4%
-5.0%
-3.3%
King Shaka International
15.1%
N/A
-8.9%
WHAT THIS MEANS FOR MY BUSINESS The Statistics SA data and STR Global continue to indicate growth in arrivals and an improvement in hotel performance, while the ACSA data reflects the impact of the demise of 1Time Airline on the passengers arriving on domestic flights.
For more information contact Martin at Grant Thornton on +27 (0)21 417 8838 or visit: http://www.gt.co.za APRIL 2013
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MARKETING
German inbound tourism set to grow According to the Department of Tourism, Tourist arrivals to South Africa increased 10.4% between January and October last year compared with the same period in 2011, helped by a growing number of German visitors, writes Des Langkilde. Germany was one of the key traditional overseas markets for travel to South Africa, with the US and the UK at the top of the pile, the department said.
forged exciting new ones, and these will help to grow foreign arrivals in the future,” says Tourism Minister, Marthinus van Schalkwyk who led the South African delegation.
Over the 10-month period, 7.5m tourists arrived compared with 6.8m for the same period in 2011. The number of German tourists increased 12.2% to 204,247.
Germany is an enormously valuable market for South Africa, and South African Tourism has committed to continuing to invest heavily in marketing campaigns. The German travel trade is an especially important stakeholder group for South African Tourism, and agreements are in place with 17 German key tour operators who work with South African Tourism to sell the destination to a growing market.
South African Tourism says that South Africa enjoyed a highly successful trade show at ITB in Berlin this year, and brokered excellent business deals, which they are confident will result in thousands more German tourist arrivals in the months ahead. “We met with a high number of new trade partners and German tour operators wanting to include South Africa into their portfolio of destinations. We also met a number of top international journalists in order to market our destination. We cemented old partnerships, and
“Germany remains a strong, vibrant and robust market for us, and we are serious about our responsibility to make South Africa as accessible as possible to our German visitors. We work hard to defend our share of the market, and grow it,” said South African Tourism Chief Executive Officer, Thulani Nzima.
How to get more German Tourists
Tourism has been identified by the government as one of six priority sectors to achieve economic growth and attract investment, and South Africa intends to attract 15m arrivals a year by 2020 to grow tourism’s contribution to the economy and job creation.
Tourism Tattler represents FVW Mediengruppe as their advertising agent for the SA region. FVW TRADE MAGAZINE - www.fvw.de A bi-weekly trade magazine for tourism and business travel businesses in Germany. Distribution: 31 798 (print format)
BIZ TRAVEL MAGAZINE - www.BizTravel.de A monthly trade magazine for staff in charge of business travel and event (MICE) planning and purchasing in Germany. Distribution: 35 034 (print format)
Minister van Schalkwyk said during his visit to ITB that positive growth from the traditional markets, and from Europe in particular, “gives us confidence that the work we are doing to grow tourist arrivals is paying dividends”. “South Africa has every reason to feel confident about the state of its tourism industry,” he said. “Credit should go to the tourism industry for creatively and constructively working together to grow tourism to South Africa. It is also important that we ensure that every new tourist who arrives in our country is given the best possible experience, as word of mouth remains one of our most important marketing tools.” To inspire and motivate German travellers, SA Tourism intensified its marketing initiatives with German tour operators, and approached travel agents individually to educate them about the destination.
TRAVEL TALK MAGAZINE - www.TravelTalk.de A weekly magazine for travel agents in Germany. TravelTalk.de is the network for travel sales staff. This is where about 14,000 German travel agents discuss latest industry news and exchange knowhow. Distribution: 31 061 (print format) Contact: Beverley Langkilde Tel: +28 (0)87 727 8634 Cell: +28 (0)71 224 9971 Email: bev@tourismtattler.co.za
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APRIL 2013
NICHE TOURISM
Exploring the benefits of Film Tourism Film tourism is a growing phenomenon worldwide, motivated by both the growth of the entertainment industry and the increase in international travel, writes Leonie Berning. What is film tourism? Film induced tourism explores the effects that film and TV-productions have on the travel decisions made when potential tourists plan their upcoming holiday or visit to a destination. Films, documentaries, TV-productions and commercials inspire people to experience the locations seen in the content screened, to explore new destinations. Film tourism is an excellent vehicle for destination marketing and also creates opportunities for product and community entrepreneur development such as location tours or film heritage museums to name but a few. One of the best examples of film induced tourism relates to ‘The Lord Of The Rings’ trilogy, filmed in New Zealand. Research studies revealed that at least 72% of the current and potential international tourists visiting New Zealand, had seen at least one of the trilogy films. Although this is no concrete evidence that their destination choice was as a result of the films, it was definitely a motivating component. In a demonstration to of the power of film to raise the profile of New Zealand and reveal the influence a film has in destination choices for tourists, more than two-thirds of the tourists questioned agreed that they would visit the country as a result of the movie. (source: Film Induced Tourism by Sue Beeton). Film tourism and destination branding Integrating film tourism with destination branding has an even bigger spin off effect on tourism. “A decade after Jackson’s threefilm adaptation of JRR Tolkien’s The Lord of the Rings emerged to critical and popular acclaim, the countdown to ‘The Hobbit’ – in its film form, also a trilogy – began last week in earnest. In earnest and in fact: Wellington mayor Celia Wade-Brown unveiled a giant clock, complete with an image of Martin Freeman as Bilbo Baggins, counting down the minutes to the 28 November premiere. The clock sits atop the Embassy Theatre, the handsome 1920s cinema that will host the screening. A bevy of international stars, led, it’s safe to predict, by Freeman, will return to Wellington to walk the red carpet down Courtenay Place. The last time the 500m carpet was unrolled, for the world premiere of ‘The Return of the King’ in 2003, about 120,000 people came to watch the procession. Organisers expect a similar turnout this time. “It will be a real carnival atmosphere,” promises Wade-Brown. There is nothing subtle about efforts to piggyback. The national tourism slogan “100% Pure New Zealand” has become “100% Middle-earth”, while in the days leading up to the premiere Wellington will be “renamed” as “Middle of Middle-earth”. It is all a huge contrast from the ‘Lord of the Rings’ experience. Back then, tourist operators felt “ambushed” by fans of the films, says Melissa Heath, owner of Southern Lakes Sightseeing, which
According to Tourism New Zealand an average of 47,000 visitors each year visit a film location. Following the release of the Lord of the Rings trilogy, six percent of visitors (around 120,000 - 150,000 people) cite The Lord of the Rings as being one of the main reasons for visiting New Zealand. One per cent of visitors said that the Lord of the Rings was their main or only reason for visiting. This one per cent related to approximately NZ$32.8m in spend.
specialises in ‘Lord of the Rings’ location tours. “I don’t think anyone in New Zealand was ready for it.” Britain has been a destination for over a hundred international film and television productions over the past decade. The filming of ‘Harry Potter’ and ‘Sherlock Holmes’ had a surge of tourists as a result. Films such as ‘Braveheart’ resulted in a 300% increase of tourism a year after its release in cinemas and the release of the film “Troy” resulted in a 72% increase for tourism in Turkey. Film induced tourism and destination branding is one of the fastest growing sectors in tourism currently. However, there are some key issues that need to be considered before promoting a location for film productions and tourism. Applying responsible tourism practices, creating a film friendly environment in advance, through community participation and awareness campaigns, safety and security, service excellence and understanding the impact of destination branding to name but a few, especially in South Africa where film tourism is still a fairly unexplored concept. Film tourism provides an abundance of community and product development opportunities, if approached responsibly and applied correctly. It is a fast paced industry, driven by creative passion, positive energy and tremendous enthusiasm, which I believe can be crosspollinated into the tourism and services sector. For more information email leonie@etc-africa.com or visit www.etc-africa.com About the author: Leonie Berning is a member of the KwaZuluNatal Film Commission Executive Board of Directors. With a collective seventeen years in human relations, eco-tourism, marketing and film industry experience, exploring and exposing the opportunities for film tourism and identifying film industry scarce skills and infrastructure needs, are her priorities. As a Consulting Manager and part of a project team for ETC-Africa, in partnership with Enterprize iLembe, uThungulu District Municipality and Umhlosinga Development Agency, Leonie successfully set up and managed the Zulu Coast Film Office project from 1 January 2011 – 30 March 2012.
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RESPONSIBLE TOURISM
STPP takes Sustainable Tourism on the road The Sustainable Tourism Partnership Programme (STPP) convened a series of road shows to Potchefstroom, Beaufort West, Knysna, Graaff-Reinet and Colesberg during March to present to small businesses, and in particular, small accommodation establishments, writes Mientjie Steyn.
Caroline Ungersbock president of the National Accommodation Association of South Africa (NAA-SA) addresses delegates in Potchefstroom
The aim of the road show was to assist owners and managers of smaller accommodation establishments and smaller tourism businesses to better understand responsible tourism. “Responsible tourism affects many businesses in a town, starting at the accommodation facilities. We all have a role to play in building a great tourism destination not only in our own towns, but also as a country,” says Caroline Ungersbock, co-founder of the STPP, president of the National Accommodation Association of South Africa (NAA-SA) and owner of a guest house.
While informing and educating establishments and other tourism businesses, Caroline and Niki also find out from the establishments what their challenges are in implementing responsible and sustainable business practices. These requirements will be addressed in various forms, and in particular, where training is needed, the STPP will organise workshops, talks and seminars to provide fit-for-purpose training and skills development. The team will criss-cross South Africa and plans to visit as many towns as possible with the road shows planned for 2013 and 2014.
During the road show, participants were informed of the voluntary tourism strategies, standards and policies that influence their establishments positively with various savings and special offers. “Our partners include Eskom, Nedbank and BnB Sure, to name a few, and through these partnerships we are able to assist establishments and tourism businesses in starting with responsible tourism practices and to acclaim their rightful place in the industry. In essence, we are running a programme on how to implement the 41 Criteria of the National Minimum Standard for Responsible Tourism (SANS1162:2011),” continues Niki Glen, co-founder of the STPP.
To strengthen their presence in each town, the STPP will also set up local community forums with champions to drive the campaign in the community. These champions will further lead, uplift and educate where necessary in sustaining responsible tourism in the future.
Caroline adds that most establishments already meet some criteria without even knowing it. “Mostly, owners and managers don’t realise that what they are doing is in accordance with the Department
of Tourism’s strategy in developing sustainable tourism. Therefore, in some cases, establishments may be well on the road to fulfilling the criteria. We provide a checklist for establishments to see where they require assistance.”
Membership of the Sustainable Tourism Partnership Programme is free of charge, but the programme in return requests businesses to participate through completing surveys and by providing data. “The industry is in dire need of data that assists policy makers and product and service providers to develop appropriate regulation and offerings, which aids smaller tourism businesses in becoming sustainable. Long term benefits for establishments and businesses in tourism are huge,” concludes Niki. For more information visit www.stpp.wozaonline.co.za
About the Sustainable Tourism Partnership Programme The STPP is a non-profit organisation that focuses on sustainable tourism development and assists small businesses and establishments in the tourism industry to implement and align themselves with the 41 Criteria of the National Tourism Sector Strategy (SANS1162:2011). The STPP also aligns itself with Department of Tourism’s National Strategy for Sustainable Development and Action Plan of 2011. Various sponsors and partners include: Eskom, Nedbank, BnBSure, National Accommodation Association of South Africa, alive2green, eDABA Tourism, IRDC (Institute for Rural and Community Development), I4SBF, The Endangered Wild Life Trust, Positive Cycle, University of Johannesburg and the Tourism Tattler Trade Journal.
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APRIL 2013
RISK
More bang for the buck The phrase ‘bang for the buck’ is an idiom meaning ‘value for one’s money’, which is what many insurers aim to provide through client loyalty incentive programmes, and are worth looking into when choosing an insurer for your hospitality establishment, writes Des Langkilde. Many insurers use loyalty cards to extend their value-added offerings to clients. Loyalty based programmes offer a variety of products and services at discounted rates to closed user Groups. One such loyalty provider is Discounted Lifestyles, who administer the BnB Club loyalty programme on behalf of BnB Sure. In an effort to provide all BnB Sure policy holders with continued value-added services Discounted Lifestyle offer BnB Sure Policy holders the opportunity to market their establishment to Discounted Lifestyle’s closed user groups, which include over 3.2 million people. In order to market their establishment through the loyalty based programme, BnB Sure policyholders need to provide Discounted Lifestyles with a discount of 10% on accommodation rates should the booking be made through one of the loyalty based programmes. Potential guests are only able to get the discounted rate by contacting the toll free number dedicated to the Discounted Lifestyle BnB Finder platform and quoting the reference number that is provided with the
listing. The operator then contacts the establishment that the guest has chosen and arranges that the accommodation be booked. To leverage their value-added incentive, BnB Sure have launched a competition for all BnB Sure policy holders who sign up for the Discounted Lifestyles offer. The competition runs from 18 March to 31 May 2013 with various prizes over the value of R17,000.00. For more information contact Rudi Briedenhann on 0861 444 444 or email rudi@discountedlifestyle.com
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RISK
Travel Trade INSURANCE PART 5
Professional Indemnity insurance
The previous four parts of this series, extracted verbatim (with slight editing) from the SATSA Insurance Directive booklet, were published in the December 2012, January, February and March 2013 editions - Editor. TYPES OF INSURANCE Basically there are five kinds of insurance that really apply to the tourism industry: 1. Financial Guarantee (Insurance Bond) - Refer December 2012 2. Liability Insurance - Refer January 2013 edition • General Public Liability - Refer January edition • Passenger Liability - Refer January and February editions • Road Accident Fund Amendment Bill - Refer March edition • Personal Accident insurance • Professional Indemnity insurance 3. Vehicle / Property Insurance 4. Travel Insurance / Medical Rescue 5. Other Business Insurance (Buy & Sell, Key Person, Provident Fund) Personal Accident insurance To provide some form of reassurance to overseas travel agents and their clients, SATSA recommends that tour operators secure personal accident insurance in addition to their existing passenger liability insurance. Personal accident insurance is a very simple form of cover with a capital benefit or sum insured, which is paid in full in the event of accidental death, and paid on a sliding scale basis depending on the severity of injury in the case of permanent disablement. There is also medical costs insurance cover that is included to be used to cover such costs resulting from the accident. One of the main differences between a personal accident insurance policy and a liability policy is the fact that the personal accident policy is on a no fault basis, which means that it will make payment to an injured person regardless of fault. A liability product will only make payment to an injured person where there is proven legally liability as a result of negligence on the part of the insured operator that resulted in injuries to said person. So logically the personal accident policy will be more costly as it will pay regardless of fault on behalf of the operator. A classic example of this difference would be a situation where an insured operator with six guests in their vehicle is hit by a third party vehicle and three of the passengers are killed. The cause of the accident had nothing to do with the insured operator’s actions as the third party vehicle was solely at fault. With a liability product, nothing would be paid as there was no fault on behalf of the insured, likewise any legal action against the operator would not have been successful for the same reason. In this same situation a personal accident policy would pay out. 34
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This is another form of liability insurance, which is aimed at professionals who offer advice or provide detailed brochures or itineraries to tourists, such as Travel Agents or Tour Brokers. It provides you with protection in respect of your legal liability arising out of the practice of your profession. This normally arises as the result of negligent acts, errors or omissions. The world in which professional tourism service providers operate is one of ever increasing pressure, with demands for quick answers and cost effective solutions. This pressure can lead to errors and omissions, which can and do give rise to claims. Circumstances that give rise to professional liability claims are seldom clear-cut - they often give rise to disputes as to the nature and extent of the responsibility. In cases where you are blameless you may nevertheless be drawn into lengthy disputes, which can be both financially and emotionally draining. Professional Indemnity insurance provides both you and your client with peace of mind and financial protection. Directors and Officers Liability insurance Directors and Officers Liability insurance covers damages that may be awarded to a plaintiff in a law suit as well as legal defense costs. The policy may be extended to cover criminal and regulatory investigations and trials. Claims may arise from shareholders, customers, industry regulators or competitors (e.g. unfair business practices). Directors and officers may also be held liable if they breach their duties or contracts to the company, mix personal and business assets or fail to disclose conflicts of interests. 3. VEHICLE / PROPERTY INSURANCE This is more the kind of insurance that we as individuals are familiar with. Whether a business or an individual the following risks are a reality that has to be accounted for. VEHICLE INSURANCE Motor insurance A comprehensive Motor Policy covers a road vehicle for all scenarios relating to any form of accident, as well as in the event of the vehicle being burnt out in a fire and of course, the greatest risk of all, theft. Should an accident be your fault and a third party is affected, this would also be covered under such a policy. In terms of Motor Policies, the onus lies with you, as the transport operator, to ensure that you comply with and adhere to, statutory requirements laid down by law (ignorance of the law is no excuse when it comes to litigation). These are: • The vehicle must be roadworthy, of a suitable size (Tare) for carrying the number of passengers and be equipped with basic safety features (seat belts). • The driver must have a Professional Driving Permit (PRDP), which requires that he / she is 21 years of age or older. In addition, it is also important that operators obtain the correct insurance cover for the vehicle itself: namely, that the vehicle is insured
APRIL 2013
RISK
was not your fault at all, you or your insurance company would claim from the guilty party’s third party cover in order to cover your expenses. Where complications arise is when the guilty party is not insured at all and that is when either you or your insurance party may have to resort to claiming the money from him or her in a court of law.
for ‘business’ or commercial use rather than under a ‘domestic’ motor policy due to the lower premium costs. This practice can prove to be a false economy in the event of a claim against the motor or third party section as the insurer would repudiate the claim on the basis that the vehicle was being used to carry ‘fare-paying’ passengers, which would therefore be construed as being ‘business use’. TIP: Most policies insure on retail and not replacement value – be sure to check this on your policy. Be sure to also check whose responsibility it is to advise the insurance company of the vehicle’s annual depreciation – it could be yours or the brokers. Motor Policies may be broken up and it is possible that only sections of the complete cover can be purchased. Motor Accident cover Your vehicle is involved in a road accident, either with another vehicle or with a stationary object or maybe just due to a loss of control. Providing that you are sufficiently covered, as per the value of your vehicle, the damages sustained to your vehicle would be paid for, subject to the deduction of an excess or first amount payable, as per your policy directive. If your vehicle has to be towed this too would be covered under this section of the policy. You would also be covered in the event that the driver was not yourself but another legal authorised party. Motor Third Party cover If, after the accident, it is ascertained that the accident was your fault and you have caused damage to another vehicle and a garden wall for instance, these further damages would also be covered under your policy. Often the blame of an accident is subject to dispute and the insurance companies of each party have to fight it out, and in extreme cases this can go to court. Conversely where the accident
Motor Fire cover This relates mostly to the occurrence of your vehicle being burnt out. Your car could obviously be burnt out as a result of an accident. This will also cover you in the event that your car is parked in somebody else’s garage which burned down, although the first recourse here would be that person’s home owner’s insurance, but if that did not cover you then your own fire policy would. Motor Theft cover As the scourge of our region, this cover is very relevant. This cover is in the event of your vehicle being stolen. However, great caution needs to be taken here as each insurance company has different requirements. The value of the vehicle, the nature of your alarm system and where the vehicle was stolen, would all be taken into account. Remember that it is important that you declare the value of your vehicle correctly or else you will only be paid up to the value that you are covered for and not maybe what your vehicle is worth. In many instances Insurers require an anti-theft or tracking device be fitted in order to obtain cover. Marine insurance Marine insurance policies offer comprehensive insurance on vessels’ hulls, motors, furnishings and fittings and all associated equipment on any marine vessel. Passenger liability clauses held under Marine policies are normally specific to this class of insurance. In other words, your passenger liability policy held under a Motor policy will not cover passenger risks for your boat as well. Aviation insurance As with Marine, aviation policies provide cover for an aircrafts fuselage, motors, furnishings and fittings and all associated equipment. Passenger liability clauses held under Aviation policies are specific to this class of insurance. This article, to be continued in the April 2013 edition of the Tourism Tattler, will look at Property insurance - Ed.
Get the Tourism Insurance Directive booklet DOWNLOAD (PDF)
www.tourismtattler.co.za/satsa-insurance-directive.pdf
PRINTED COPY
Collect at SATSA’s offices: 3rd Floor, Petrob House, 343 Surrey Avenue, Ferndale, Johannesburg or email communications@satsa.co.za (Note that a nominal fee will be charged for admin, postage or courier costs)
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SAFETY AND SECURITY
BAD NEWS
“
There is a decline whenever any such (crime) incidents takes place. Tourism becomes the first casualty.
“
travels fast
– Gour Kanjilal, Executive Director, Indian Association of Tour Operators.
Reading Peter Hayward’s letter on our Discussion Page has prompted the Tourism Tattler to look carefully at reported attacks on tourists around the globe this year. One thing stands out very clearly – in this age of swift communication, you can’t hide the bad news. Governments have to rush to explain, as best they can, why these things happened. But good news travels more slowly, writes Marjorie Dean. Some attacks on tourists are obviously politically motivated. Bombs thrown at tourist buses are designed to attract, as most terrorist attacks are, to gain maximum publicity for the cause around the world. But these are the exception rather than the rule, and occur in areas where the terrorism risk is well known. However, they do affect tourism numbers, and tourism to countries such as Pakistan, Egypt and around the Middle East has to take this factor into account.
Such incidents have “raised concerns about the safety of female travellers to the country,” said DS Rawat, secretary general at Assocham.
The recent spate of publicity around attacks on women in India has had a major effect on tourism to that country. According to news reports from around the globe, female tourists are bypassing India.
The figures contradict monthly estimates compiled by the Indian tourism ministry, which found an increase in foreign tourists arriving in early 2013, although figures for March were not yet available. February saw arrivals increase by 1.6% compared with last year, according to the ministry, still far lower than the 7.9% growth logged in February 2012.
The number of foreign women tourists visiting India has slumped by 35% in the past three months following a spate of sex attacks that have made global headlines, a new survey has found.
Gour Kanjilal, executive director of the Indian Association of Tour Operators, said: “There is a decline whenever any such incident takes place. Tourism becomes the first casualty.”
The fatal gang-rape of a 23-year-old Indian student by six men on a bus in New Delhi in December sparked outrage at the country’s treatment of women, and since then there have been other widely reported attacks. The study surveyed 1,200 tour operators from across the country who said that “concerns about the safety of female travellers” had affected how foreign travellers viewed India. The Associated Chambers of Commerce and Industry of India (Assocham), said overall tourist arrivals are down 25% year-on-year, with holidaymakers opting instead to visit other Asian countries such as Malaysia and Thailand. (One queries Thailand, as reports of attacks on tourists there are legion!) Since the December gang rape there have been two widely publicized incidents in which foreign female travellers were attacked.
South America
India
Last month, a Swiss woman was gang raped in central India as she and her husband camped in a remote forest. In the second incident, a young British woman says she was forced to jump out of the window of her hotel room to avoid a sexual attack in Agra, the city that is home to the Taj Mahal. According to the study, the three incidents have hurt tourism, and nearly 72 percent of the tour operators said cancellations of holiday bookings came mostly from female tourists, most of them from Britain, the United States, Canada and Australia.According to India’s 36
Tourism Ministry, 6.6 million foreign tourists visited India in 2012, earning the country $17.74 billion in foreign exchange.
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Another popular destination, Rio de Janeiro, now busy preparing to host both the world Cup and the Olympics, is battling horrendous international publicity after reports that a female US tourist had been kidnapped, raped and robbed on a minibus in Rio de Janeiro. A male foreign tourist on the public minibus was also held captive and robbed, according to Rio police. CNN reported that the two boarded the minibus in the Copacabana beach district in Rio de Janeiro. Three men subsequently boarded the minibus and forced all the other passengers off, police said. The woman was raped, and the two passengers’ credit cards were used at multiple locations inside and outside of Rio de Janeiro over a span of hours, the police said in a statement. According to Rio police, two men have been arrested and a third man is being sought in connection with the attack. The city has launched a citywide offensive against crime, particularly drug-fuelled violence in the shanty towns. But the damage to Rio’s reputation had already been done. Another South American country in the news for all the wrong reasons is Peru. The US tabloid Today published the story of how a family vacation in Peru turned into a vicious nightmare for three
APRIL 2013
SAFETY AND SECURITY
Americans who say they were brutally attacked by residents of a countryside village.
seeing attacks almost every day,” said Jean-Francois Zhou, the head of Ansel Travel, which specialises in tours to and from China.
The Americans were abducted while looking for a place to camp for the night. Eventually, they were freed after their captors forced them at gunpoint to sign a document blaming their injuries on a drunkdriving accident.
Zhou told AFP that about 10 Chinese visitors were robbed on one day in October, mainly in the famed Louvre museum, right in the heart of the city. And in February, “a minibus caught in a traffic jam was attacked, its windows were smashed and hand bags stolen”, he said, adding there was a more recent attack on Chinese nationals at a four-star hotel in Paris.
The group signed the document and were taken back to their ransacked vehicle. They eventually met up with police who took them in for medical treatment. The trio received more than 100 stitches between them. Peruvian tourism officials have met with the Wolfroms to apologize. Meanwhile in Mexico, attacks on both Mexican and foreign tourists this week “will not go unpunished,” the Guerrero state government said. Gunmen raped six Spanish tourists on the outskirts of the Pacific resort city of Acapulco around 3:00 a.m. Monday. The sexual assaults occurred in Playa Bonfil, located in the eastern section of Acapulco, one of Mexico’s most popular tourist destinations. Acapulco, one of Mexico’s most famous tourist destinations, has been plagued by drug-related violence in recent years. The Guerrero state government launched a security operation in 2011 with the support of the federal government to step up security in areas frequented by foreign and domestic tourists. “Operation Safe Guerrero” was launched on Oct. 6, 2011, in an effort to reduce the soaring crime rate in the state. Europe And it’s not only happening in Third World Countries, as those in the First World seem to like to believe. Agence France Presse (AFP) reported on 30 March that mass muggings and attacks on Chinese tourists in Paris have spawned alarm and warnings of a decline in the number of free-spending visitors from the Asian giant who swarm to France. More than one million Chinese visitors come every year to France, a country which for them epitomises luxury, romance and quality products. But that may very well change, said one expert, citing a slew of recent attacks which he says takes the sheen off the “City of Lights” for Chinese visitors. “This has become a scourge. Since the past year, we have been
Zhou said the Chinese were targeted as they were big spenders, adding: “Some of them carry up to 20,000 euros ($25,000) for shopping.” Renlai Zhu, the head of a Chinese language website on the French capital named YouParis.com, said the situation was being blown out of proportion. “The phenomena of thefts and aggressions, yes they are growing, but they also exist in Spain and in Rome,” he said. South Africa How much noise did South Africa make after the World Cup in 2010, which passed without any serious crime incidents, after the world had spent months predicting disaster in South Africa for football fans? Did South Africa really fight back with the good news? Instead, leaflets were distributed warning tourists to be careful, which also reinforced the impression that South Africa is a dangerous place. However the figures reveal that almost all serious crime is South African on South African and not targeting tourists. My own experience, although it is dangerous to extrapolate, has been different. Family visiting us were using our car, they hit a big pothole – yes THESE are dangerous – and shredded two tyres in rural Mpumalanga. Several cars stopped, all offered genuine assistance; one contacted a garage in Lydenburg, the nearest town, which sent out a tow truck. They were taken into town, pointed at a “good place for lunch” and a lad from the garage came to tell them when the car was ready. And this is not an isolated experience in South Africa. Caring for our tourists is the Southern African way! And we can be very proud of that, and should tell our tourists!
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TRANSPORT
Are your guests travelling in a legal vehicle? Although the traditional forms of contracted transport such as commercial coaches, minibuses and taxis are constantly under the spotlight for Operating Licence Board compliance, more and more transport providers are entering the market offering outings and transfers on unconventional vehicles, writes Tim Clarke. During the holiday season, all sorts of wonderful and exotic vehicles such as Harley Davidson motorbikes, Tuk Tuk three wheelers , Vintage World War II Sidecars, Classic motor vehicles, stretch limousines and the rest, make their way onto our highways and byways and provide a fun and necessary service for the industry.
However, there seems to be a misconception in the market that these particular vehicles are exempt in some or other way from the regulations as prescribed by the National Land Transport Transition Act, 2000 (Act 22 of 2000). In terms of Section 57(5) of this act, which governs tourism vehicles, any vehicle, conventional or unconventional, that is used to convey fare-paying passengers must comply fully with the prescribed regulations. Full compliance with this regulation means, amongst other things, the following: 1. The vehicle is fully licensed, carries a valid RWC, and is owned by an accredited operator. 2. The vehicle is adequately covered for passenger liability insurance. 3. The vehicle carries a valid OLB permit and operates within the prescribed conditions of the permit. 4. The driver of the vehicle carries a valid driver’s licence with a PDP (Professional Driver Permit) endorsement. Whether you’re a tour operator booking an outing on behalf of a principal, or a hotel booking-desk arranging a day tour for a guest or simply a parent arranging a fun transfer for your family, it’s in your best interests to ensure you’re getting all the protection to which you’re entitled. For complete peace of mind, you’re encouraged to request a copy of the OLB permit as well as a copy of the vehicle’s insurance certificate from the owner or operator of the vehicle when making a booking. So, next time you’re out having fun on an exotic chariot from yesteryear, make sure you’re not being taken for a ride!
About the author: Tim Clarke owns and operates Cape Sidecar Adventures providing chauffeured tours and transfers. For more information visit www.sidecars.co.za
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TRANSPORT
Red Buses enhance Joburg sightseeing The inner city of South Africa’s economic hub, Johannesburg, now provides tourists with a hop-on, hop-off city sighteeing transport solution, which aims to benefit local businesses and the travel trade.
effective, informative and fun for the entire family. One can join the tour at any of the stops along the route. Tickets can be purchased from the City Sightseeing Tour Office inside Gold Reef City; online at www.citysightseeing.co.za or on the bus using a credit card.
City Sightseeing, the brand that operates the iconic open-top red double decker buses on six continents and in over 100 cities in the world, officially launched the City Sightseeing tours in Johannesburg‘s Gold Reef City on 07 February 2013. The event, which was attended by dignitaries from Gauteng Provincial Government and the City of Johannesburg as well as key tourism stakeholders from the private sector, officially marked the start of City Sightseeing tours in Johannesburg – an exciting development that offers locals and tourist alike the chance to explore this vibrant city. The tour runs along a fascinating route through the Johannesburg CBD that stops at Gandhi Square, the Roof of Africa at the Carlton Centre, the James Hall Transport Museum, the Apartheid Museum and Gold Reef City, the Mining District, the World of Beer, the Carlton Centre, Santarama Miniland, Newtown Precinct, the Origins Centre, Wits Campus, Braamfontein and Constitution Hill. How the City Sightseeing tour works As with all City Sightseeing tours, Joburg operates on the worldrenowned and hugely popular Hop-On, Hop-Off basis, which allows sightseers the chance to get off the bus at any of the designated stops along the route and then get back on to a later bus at their leisure - guaranteeing frequent, safe and reliable transport that is cost
“The City Sightseeing tour will change people’s perceptions of the inner city of Johannesburg into a tourism-friendly zone and thereby continue to grow the tourism footprint and associated spend of tourists to the benefit of local businesses,” says Claus Tworeck, CEO of City Sightseeing South Africa. “There are twelve stops along the route and the service will run between 9 am and 5.30 pm seven days a week. The commentary on the buses, in multiple languages, will tell the story of Johannesburg through the many historic buildings, landmarks and attractions along the route.” Global brand endorses Johannesburg Enrique Ybarra, president and CEO of City Sightseeing Worldwide, said: “City Sightseeing Worldwide is the number one open top bus operator globally. Our tours are tried and tested and provide a recognized safe, reliable, informative, cost effective and fun way to see the city and to easily visit key attractions. The introduction of the City Sightseeing tours to Cape Town over the past years has demonstrated the value of this service for primarily the domestic market and the potential that the product has to contribute to inner city regeneration. Tours will initially be introduced to the Johannesburg CBD with the intention of expanding the service to Sandton and later Tshwane and possibly other parts of the Province.” External stakeholders that have played a role in the successful launch of the City Sightseeing Johannesburg tours include the Gauteng Tourism Authority, City of Johannesburg, the Johannesburg Tourism Company, the Joburg Development Agency, Joburg Roads Agency, JMPD, the Johannesburg Inner City Tourism Association and Tsogo Sun. A meeting of like-minded parties “I salute the excellent cooperation between the City Sightseeing, Gauteng Tourism and the City of Joburg which has allowed this new, top-quality tourist service to be introduced in our Province,” said Nkosiphendule Kolisile, MEC for Economic Development and Tourism. “It will assist greatly in making the CBD a more tourist-friendly zone and will contribute to unlocking the tourism potential of Gauteng by connecting visitors and residents to remarkable experiences and world class tourism attractions”. Tickets for the Johannesburg tour cost R150, discounted to R120 if purchased online at www.citysightseeing.co.za. City Sightseeing can be contacted on 0861 733 287.
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