Contents Issue 10 (October) 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 ASSISTANT EDITOR Qochiwe Moyo 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 Official Media Partner to:
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Competition: Win 7 Nights for 4 people at Club Mykonos in South Africa
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Conservation: DR Congo’s Virunga World Heritage Site under Threat from Oil
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Transport: A Guide to Off Road Driving - with 4x4 Tour Guide information IN THIS ISSUE Official Travel Trade Journal of:
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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 Website: www.naa-sa.co.za
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EDITORIAL Cover Story Article Discussions COMPETITION Club Mykonos - Langebaan CONSERVATION Rhino Knights Update Virunga under oil threat ENVIRONMENT Environmental Tourism - Part 3 EVENTS Visit our website Events Calendar to view events for October
Adv. Louis Nel Des Langkilde The Southern Africa Tourism Services Association (SATSA) Tel: +2786 127 2872 Fax: +2711 886 755 Webite: www.satsa.com
Seychelles Hospitality & Tourism Association Tel: +248 432 5560 Fax: +248 422 5718 Website: www.shta.sc
SATSA PROUD SPONSOR
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SATIB Insurance Brokers Avis Globe Lotter Tours Heritage Clothing Neil’s Transfers
HOSPITALITY 14 Property Review - Club Mykonos LEGAL 20 ‘POPI’ Act - Part 6 MARKETING 21 SATSA Market Intelligence Report 22 Social Media Marketing - Part 3 TRANSPORT 24 Off Road Driving Guide - Part 1 TRADE NEWS Visit our website for daily travel news in and to Africa.
EDITORIAL CONTRIBUTORS Isabel Wolf-Gillespie Martin Jansen van Vuuren Jeannie Burns Pieter Philipse MAGAZINE SPONSORS 04 Sports & Events Tourism Exchange 04 White Shark Projects 07 City Lodge Hotel Group 29 Savage Jooste & Adams Attorneys 33 Kondwana Marketing
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.
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CLASSIFIEDS
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Wildlife T-Shirts that capture the image of Africa
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cover story
This edition focuses on wildlife and environmental issues, the preservation of which is critical for African countries to maintain their attraction as tourism destinations. While August 10th was World Elephant Day, October 4th, will see the world March for Elephants to bring attention to the plight of both Asian and African elephants. Organised by The David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust (DSWT), the International March for Elephants is being rallied via their iworry campaign and will be taking place in 15 cities across the globe in the single largest demonstration of awareness for the species. The ivory trade is an international problem and one which must be recognised by all African governments as critical, in order to gain global support for tourism growth. The escalation of poaching, habitat loss, human-elephant conflict and
EDITORIAL
mistreatment in captivity are just some of the threats to African elephants. Working towards better protection for wild elephants, improving enforcement policies to prevent the illegal poaching and trade of ivory, conserving elephant habitats, better treatment for captive elephants, and when appropriate reintroducing captive elephants into natural, protected sanctuaries are the goals that numerous elephant conservation organizations are focusing on around the world. According to the iworry campaign website, up to 36,000 elephants were killed for their ivory in 2012, which equates to one elephant killed every fifteen minutes. At this rate none will be roaming in the wild by 2025. To participate in the International March for Elephants campaign, visit: www.iworry.org/#campaign Another worthy conservation campaign is the World Wildlife Fund (WWF®) who are petitioning against UK oil company Soco’s plans to explore for oil inside Virunga National Park - a World Heritage Site in the Democratic Republic of Congo. Help WWF to ‘Draw the Line’ - Read more on page 10.
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ARTICLE DISCUSSIONS
Article Comments Article Comments from September NICHE TOURISM Using Film Festivals as a Tourism Marketing Tool www.tourismtattler.co.za/?p=6597
Submitted on 2013/09/13 at 8:31 am Would like to Pin your latest September competition but cannot seem to find it on your Pinterest pages. please advise.?? Tracy K - Afrikan Traveller - South Africa Submitted on 2013/09/14 at 9:52 am (in reply) The September competition has been posted on Pinterest at: http:// www.pinterest.com/pin/201536152048305921/ As from October, our new website will have an active Pinterest button below each article to facilitate pin sharing. Des Langkilde - tourismtattler.co.za - South Africa •
TRADE NEWS
Avios Travel Rewards Programme launches in South Africa www.tourismtattler.co.za/?p=6347 Submitted on 2013/09/11 at 5:47 am Good introduction to the relationship between film festivals and destination marketing. I’d love to hear more about this and in particular any news on what makes a festival succeed (or why they fail). Anyone got any leads/articles about this? Pete Allsop - Ilha Blue Island Safaris - Mozambique Submitted on 2013/09/14 at 9:52 am (in reply) Thanks for the comment, Pete. JOANNE STEELE posted an informative article on “Why Small Town Festivals Fail and How to Make Them Succeed” – the post can be accessed at: http://ruraltourismmarketing. com/2013/06/why-small-town-festivals-fail-and-how-to-make-themsucceed/ Des Langkilde - Tourismt Tattler - South Africa •
COMPETITION
Win a Big 5 Safari at Kwandwe Private Game Reserve www.tourismtattler.co.za/?p=6540
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Submitted on 2013/09/05 at 3:31 pm I am unable to log onto the Avios site and would like more information on it and the credit card. Please help. Elaine Ensor-Smith - elaine@byc.co.za - South Africa Submitted on 2013/09/06 at 10:26 am (in reply) Hi there, you can apply for an Avios credit card by visiting http:// www.avioscard.co.za. Megann - Atmosphere Communications - South Africa
Congratulations Pete! Your comment has been chosen as the prize winner for September. Your prize of Two Isobecher Stainless Steel Mugs will be delivered to you with the compliments of Livingstones Supply Co – suppliers of the finest products to the hospitality Industry. Editor.
The winning comment posted on the Tattler website during the month of October 2013 will receive a copy of Dereck and Beverly Joubert’s ‘Eye of the Leopard’ DVD with the compliments of Livingstones Supply Co – Suppliers of the Finest Products to the Hospitality Industry. This 55 minute film follows the remarkable life of one small leopard from when she is just 8 days old every step of the way until she is 3 years old and on the brink of adulthood. Legadema, as she is named, works her way into your heart as she slips in and out of danger virtually every day, running from baboons and hyenas but also making landmark strides in hunting and surviving. It is the story of a mother and daughter relationship as well as that of an emerging huntress in Botswana’s magnificent Mombo region of the Okavango Delta. • A Film by Derek and Beverly Joubert • Running Time: 55 minutes
For more information visit: www.livingstonessupplyco.co.za
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MAKE YOURSELF AT HOME, WHEREVER BUSINESS TAKES YOU IN SOUTHERN AFRICA From Bellville to Bryanston and Port Elizabeth to Gaborone, we have 53 conveniently located hotels that will make you feel right at home (and won’t break the bosses’ budget either)
GCL112
Whether it’s at a Courtyard Hotel, City Lodge Hotel, Town Lodge or Road Lodge, we have a conveniently located hotel to suit all pockets
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CONSERVATION
End of the Road for Rhino Knights After traversing 9,259km on foot and bicycle around Southern Africa for rhino, Isabel Wolf-Gillespie finally completed the marathon journey after four months and eighteen days on the road, and arrived back in Durban on Wednesday 18th September at 17:30pm. I am sitting in front of my laptop with an overwhelming amount of admin to do but I am not sure where to start to be quite honest! Normally, I write a list and tick off the boxes as I am going along but today, I feel my mind drifting off every so often and I catch myself starring out the window for I don’t know how long. Realization has not yet dawned on me but clearly I am processing something… Just yesterday, my husband Lloyd Gillespie, my sister Raphaela Wolf, our ridgeback Mr P and I arrived back in Durban after four months and eighteen days on the road promoting the Rhino Knights campaign around Southern Africa. Lloyd and I have worked on this campaign for over a year, pouring our heart and energy into it, and the preparation period was incredibly stressful, hitting barrier after barrier, having to battle through people’s doubts. Raising financial support and product sponsorship was almost impossible, and in the end we financed 90% of the campaign ourselves. I am exhilarated to say that despite all odds, we made it and we are very proud of what we have achieved.
Home stretch - only 237km to go from St Lucia to Durban!
On this note I want to thank those who have supported us - know that without you this campaign would not have been possible. I am going to compile a campaign report for our website in the next few days with detailed information on the route, the schools visited, the survey conducted, and much more. For now, it is perhaps suffice to say that the Rhino Knights campaign has achieved its aim - that of educating children on the importance of wildlife conservation with the current rhino poaching crisis spearheading the campaign. From Durban I have run and cycled 9,259 km’s through some of the most beautiful countries in the world to raise awareness for Africa’s wildlife locally and internationally. I am originally from Germany, having only lived in South Africa for the past five and a half years. When I came to this country for the first time, I am embarrassed to say that I knew nothing about Africa, its wildlife or the current rhino situation. The challenges behind conserving these beautiful animals and their natural habitats are far greater than I ever expected. I truly believe that environmental education from an early age, though long-term, is vital and I see myself growing this side of Earth Awareness with new found energy and vision. Amazingly I am not tired, or feel like I need a rest after the last few months - the total opposite in fact! Having had moments and time for reflection whilst on the bike or running, I can’t wait to put new projects into action. We have lots to catch up on and will keep you in the loop on new happenings! This week I have received an email from our German publisher with the very awesome news that our book has gone into print and will be published soon! Keep supporting Earth Awareness and stay in touch!
Over 600 white wooden crosses line the road leading to St Lucia in KwaZulu-Natal. One cross for every rhino poached in South Africa.
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Isabel, Raphaela, Lloyd and Mr P www.earthawareness.co.za rhinoknights@gmail.com 076 577 1936
n 7 Nights for 4 at i W
COMPETITION
Club Mykonos
To enter this competition, simply find the answer to the following question (the answer can be found in the text below) by clicking HERE to enter. (URL: www.tourismtattler.co.za/?p=TBA).
“What makes Club Mykonos a popular holiday destination?” The first correct entry drawn after the closing date of 28 October 2013 will win seven nights’ self-catering accommodation for four people at Club Mykonos. The prize, which is valued at R15,100 includes R1,000.00 in restaurant meal vouchers and two spa vouchers. Set in the picturesque Langebaan Lagoon, Club Mykonos resort is your playful Mediterranean gateway to endless fun in the sun along the Western Cape coastline of South Africa. Choose from over 361 luxurious self-catering Kalivas (apartments), with stunning views of the lagoon and a wide range of things to do. Wet your water wings with activities ranging from fishing trips to wet bike rides to a relaxing cruise aboard the glamorous Perfect Leisure yacht. While the kids enjoy a fun day out with Chester the Donkey and the bubbly staff at Club Onos, indulge yourself at the Health & Leisure Centre or play a round of Mini Golf. Fancy your luck? Dance with Lady Luck at the casino and then dance and dine the night away at any number of restaurants and bars across the resort. Accommodation Options The Terraces are located within walking distance of the Marina, the Conference Centre and water activities. The units are available in one and two bedrooms. Each unit is allocated an undercover parking bay and has private braai facilities. All units are fully equipped and are located in a three-storey building. The MyCascades one and two bedroom units are located near the Health & Leisure centre, a short walk away from Hobie Beach. Each unit has an undercover parking bay and are fully equipped. Some units have balcony braai areas. The Hillside one, two and three bedroom units are set away from the rest of the resort, with two swimming pools and stunning panoramic views of the Marina and the lagoon beyond. All the units are fully
The answer to the question can be found in the Club Mykonos Property Review on page 19. equipped and have access to either communal braai facilities or in some cases private braai areas. The Marina is a collection of one bedroom Kalivas, located above the restaurants in the Marina. These units are walking distance to the Conference Centre, Mini Golf, Club Onos and other resort facilities. All the units are fully equipped and are located in a three-storey building. The Sea Front one, two and three bedroom units extend along Super Paradise Beach and Hobie Beach. Units are right on the beach and within walking distance of the Health & Leisure centre and restaurants. All units are fully equipped and some have private braai areas available to them. The Village one and two bedroom units are between the Health & Leisure centre and the beachfront. Both blocks of apartments overlook an outdoor swimming pool, with the tennis courts and playing fields within walking distance. These units have access to communal braai facilities. Reservations Office Tel : +27 (0)22 707 7000 Email: info@clubmykonos.co.za Website: www.clubmykonos.co.za Note: Read the Terms and Conditions of this competition, which can be downloaded at: www.tourismtattler.co.za/downloads/Club-MykonosCompetition-TermsConditions.pdf
WINNER OF THE KWANDWE PRIVATE GAME RESERVE COMPETITION FROM THE SEPTEMBER 2013 EDITION CONGRATULATIONS to Charlene Ramsden of Greenlife Southern Africa, in Cape Town. Charlene has won a two-night fully inclusive stay for two adults sharing a at either Great Fish River Lodge or at Ecca Lodge, with the compliments of Kwandwe Private Game Reserve. The prize is valued at R21,800.00. www.kwandwe.com OCTOBER 2013
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CONSERVATION
Virunga Under Oil Threat Ever heard of Virunga? It’s Africa’s oldest national park, and a treasured World Heritage Site, located in the Democratic Republic of Congo, and it could be threatened by oil exploration, writes Des Langkilde.
Rainforests, volcanoes, rare and beautiful wildlife - Virunga has it all. People who live and work there know it’s a very special place.
Edward, in Virunga’s internationally important wetlands, is crucial for local livelihoods and food.)
But Virunga is at risk of becoming Africa’s newest oil field. When the World Wildlife Fund (WWF®) heard that UK oil company Soco might explore for oil inside Virunga, they had to draw the line. Some places are just too precious to exploit.
WWF also contend that there are much safer, more sustainable, financially viable alternatives – including potentially lucrative ecotourism and hydropower.
Which is why the WWF are appealing to like minded conservationists to support Virunga by adding their names to a petition - every name helps to show governments and businesses how strongly people feel about protecting precious places like Virunga.
Valuing Virunga
Join 294,212* concerned individuals and ‘Draw the Line’ by joinig the WWF petition.
Virunga National Park is the size of a small country, straddling the equator in the Democratic Republic of Congo. It’s got more than its share of wonderful wildlife - not just huge numbers of unique birds, but African icons like lions, elephants, hippos, chimps and the remarkable okapi. And some very, very rare gorillas. Soco’s plan to explore for oil isn’t the only threat to Virunga - civil unrest and wars have put pressure on local people, wildlife and resources on-and-off for years. But we believe oil exploration would bring a new and unacceptable level of risk for Virunga’s environment and communities. Some people say local communities in Virunga will benefit from oil exploitation. But the WWF think it’s unlikely. From the initial aerial surveys, to road-building, pipeline-laying, and of course the potential oil spills and pollution of land and water. (Lake
Toby Roxburgh, Economics Advisor, WWF-UK, examines how we assign value to extraordinary natural places like Virunga National Park.
Our insatiable demand for oil is leading to exploration in places that were once considered ‘off-limits’ – some of the world’s most special, important and fragile places – places like the Arctic and indeed, Virunga National Park in Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). Virunga is a jewel in the crown of Africa’s natural heritage. It is Africa’s oldest national park, a World Heritage Site and a Ramsar wetland of international importance. It has a wide variety of habitats: forests, savannas, rivers, lakes, marshlands, active volcanoes and permanent glaciers. It hosts more species of mammals, reptiles and birds than any other protected area in Africa. It is home to about 25 per cent of the world’s 880 remaining critically endangered mountain gorillas. The park also is incredibly important economically and socially, providing food and raw materials, opportunities for tourism and recreation, secure supplies of water for drinking and hydropower, and carbon sequestration, for example. Should oil exploration lead to extraction in or around the park, the consequences could be disastrous, and could undermine future economic development and * The tally after my name was entered on 26 September 2013
Lava Lake of the Nyiragongo Volcano in Virunga National Park in Eastern DRC © Cai Tjeenk Willink / Wikimedia Commons / Attribution-Share Alike 3.0 Unported
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CONSERVATION
About the WWF® WWF® came into existence on 29 April 1961, when a small group of passionate and committed individuals signed a declaration that came to be known as the Morges Manifesto. This apparently simple act laid the foundations for one what has grown into the world’s largest independent conservation organization. More then 50 years on, the black and white panda is a well known household symbol in many countries. And the organization itself has won the backing of more than 5 million people throughout the world, and can count the actions taken by people in support of its efforts into the billions. Having invested well over US$1 billion in more than 12,000 conservation initiatives since 1985 alone, WWF is continually working to bring a balance between the demands on our world, and the variety of life that lives alongside us. Baby Mountain Gorilla in Virunga National Park © Cai Tjeenk Willink / Wikimedia Commons / Attribution-Share Alike 3.0 Unported
the well-being of communities. It is not a development pathway WWF wants to see. Our new report explores the potential economic value of Virunga under an alternative scenario – one of sustainable management and improved regional governance – to help highlight what is being put at risk. Total economic value The report takes a Total Economic Value approach, which recognizes the wide range of ways in which the natural world provides benefits to people, and distinguishes between so-called “use-values” and “non-use values”. Use values are derived from nature where it contributes to human production or consumption, either directly (e.g. the provision of food, materials, etc) or indirectly through the function of various ecosystem services (e.g. the prevention of erosion by runoff or the regulation of climate by forests). However, nature does not have to be used to be valued by humans. Many people value aspects of the environment even though they may never use or see them themselves, and hence they play no role in supporting economic production or consumption. These values are often called “non-use values”. Non-use what? Non-use values may seem abstract and intangible, but few would argue about their existence. They are driven by a range of motivations. For example, some people derive a value from merely knowing that the environmental “resource” – like a rare type of antelope or
mountain gorilla–still exists, although they have no intention of using it (so called “existence value”). Some may derive a value from the continued existence of the resource – like a spectacular landscape or natural park – in case they may wish to use it in the future (so called “option value”). Part of the motive can also be related to the desire to preserve the resource – such as a healthy environment or a culturally or spiritually important site – for future generations (known as “bequest value”). Non-use values tend to be more significant for important, unique, rare, iconic natural resources – for example like those in Virunga. Non-use values are a key reason why people donate money or sign campaigns to save endangered species such as giant pandas, tigers and whales from extinction, even though they are likely to never see them or derive any obvious benefit from their survival. Non-use values could have important policy implications for Virunga. If even a small fraction of the global non-use value for the park and its resources could be captured and converted into revenue, it could provide a significant added incentive for safeguarding the park, for the DRC government and local residents. Establishing policies and mechanisms to enable DRC to “unlock” the value of the park in a sustainable way is a monumental challenge, but we believe it is the best path. “That’s why we’re inviting you to sign our pledge to save Virunga, and to share it with your friends and family so that they too can learn about the amazing park we are fighting to protect” says Roxburgh. For more information, visit: http://wwf.panda.org
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ENVIRONMENT
Environmental Tourism - Part 3 -
Parts 1and 2 in this series can be found in the August and September editions. Part 3, which has been extracted with acknowledgement to the United Nations Environment Programme, deals with the environmental conservation aspect of tourism, writes Des Langkilde. Tourism and Environmental Conservation The tourism industry can contribute to conservation through: Direct financial contributions. Tourism can contribute directly to the conservation of sensitive areas and habitat. Revenue from parkentrance fees and similar sources can be allocated specifically to pay for the protection and management of environmentally sensitive areas. Special fees for park operations or conservation activities can be collected from tourists or tour operators. The tour operator Discovery Initiatives, which is a member of the Tour Operators Initiative for Sustainable Tourism Development, makes an annual financial contribution to the Orangutan Foundation of some US$ 45,000. The money is earned from only 5 tour groups of 10 people each visiting the Tanjing Putting National Park in Central Kalimantan. The park is under huge pressures from deforestation and river pollution from unrestricted gold mining. This money directly funds park staff and rangers, rehabilitation efforts for young orangutans, and the care center. It provides almost the only economic support for saving this park, where the park fees are officially only the equivalent of 12 pence a day. Contributions to government revenues. Some governments collect money in more far-reaching and indirect ways that are not linked to specific parks or conservation areas. User fees, income taxes, taxes on sales or rental of recreation equipment, and license fees for activities such as hunting and fishing can provide governments with the funds needed to manage natural resources. Such funds can be used for overall conservation programs and activities, such as park ranger salaries and park maintenance. The Seychelles, for example, is introducing a US$ 90 tax on travelers entering the Seychelles. Revenue will be used to preserve the environment and improve tourism facilities. 12
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For Costa Rica, tourism represents 72% of national monetary reserves, generates 140,000 jobs and produces 8.4% of the gross domestic product. The country has 25% of its territory classified under some category of conservation management. In 1999, protected areas welcomed 866,083 national and foreign tourists, who generated about US$ 2.5 million in admission fees and payment of services. Improved environmental management and planning. Sound environmental management of tourism facilities and especially hotels can increase the benefits to natural areas. But this requires careful planning for controlled development, based on analysis of the environmental resources of the area. Planning helps to make choices between conflicting uses, or to find ways to make them compatible. By planning early for tourism development, damaging and expensive mistakes can be prevented, avoiding the gradual deterioration of environmental assets significant to tourism. Cleaner production techniques can be important tools for planning and operating tourism facilities in a way that minimizes their environmental impacts. For example, green building (using energyefficient and non-polluting construction materials, sewage systems and energy sources) is an increasingly important way for the tourism industry to decrease its impact on the environment. And because waste treatment and disposal are often major, long-term environmental problems in the tourism industry, pollution prevention is especially important for the tourism industry. Environmental awareness raising. Tourism has the potential to increase public appreciation of the environment and to spread awareness of environmental problems when it brings people into closer contact with nature and the environment. This confrontation may heighten awareness of the value of nature and lead to environmentally conscious behavior and activities to preserve the environment. Protection and preservation. Tourism can significantly contribute to environmental protection, conservation and restoration of biological diversity and sustainable use of natural resources. Because of their attractiveness, pristine natural areas are valuable and the need to keep the attraction alive can lead to creation of national parks and wildlife parks.
ENVIRONMENT
Baby Mountain Gorilla in Virunga National Park © Cai Tjeenk Willink / Wikimedia Commons / Attribution-Share Alike 3.0 Unported
Tourism has had a positive effect on wildlife preservation and protection efforts, notably in Africa but also in South America, Asia, Australia, and the South Pacific. Numerous animal and plant species have already become extinct or may become extinct soon. Many countries have therefore established wildlife reserves and enacted strict laws protecting the animals that draw nature-loving tourists. As a result of these measures, several endangered species have begun to thrive again. In the Great Lakes region of Africa, mountain gorillas, one of the world’s most endangered great apes, play a critical ecological, economic and political role. Their habitat lies on the borders of northwestern Rwanda, eastern Democratic Republic of Congo and southwestern Uganda. Despite 10 years of political crisis and civil war in the region, the need for revenue from ape-related tourism has led all sides in the conflict to cooperate in protecting the apes and their habitat. Establishment of a gorilla tracking permit, which costs US$ 250 plus park fees, means that just three habituated gorilla groups of about 38 individuals in total can generate over US$ 3 million in revenue per year, making each individual worth nearly US$ 90,000 a year to Uganda. Tourism funds have contributed to development at the local, national and regional level. The presence of such a valuable tourism revenue source in the fragile afromontane forests ensures that these critical habitats are protected, thus fulfilling their valuable ecological function including local climate regulation, water catchment,and natural resources for local communities. Source: UNEP Great Apes Survival Project and Discovery Initiatives. Alternative employment. Tourism can provide an alternative to development scenarios that may have greater environmental impacts. The Eco-escuela de Español, a Spanish language school created in 1996 as part of a Conservation International project in the
Guatemalan village of San Andres, is an example. The communityowned school, located in the Maya Biosphere Reserve, combines individual language courses with home stay opportunities and community-led eco-tours. It receives around 1,800 tourists yearly, mostly from the US and Europe, and employs almost 100 residents, of whom around 60% were previously engaged in mostly illegal timber extraction, hunting and milpas, or slash-and-burn agriculture. Careful monitoring in 2000 has shown that, among the families benefiting from the business, the majority has significantly reduced hunting practices, and the number and extension of “slash-andburn” agricultural plots. Furthermore, as most families in the village benefit directly or indirectly from the school, community-managed private reserves have been established, and social pressure against hunting has increased. Regulatory measures. Regulatory measures help offset negative impacts; for instance, controls on the number of tourist activities and movement of visitors within protected areas can limit impacts on the ecosystem and help maintain the integrity and vitality of the site. Such limits can also reduce the negative impacts on resources. Limits should be established after an in-depth analysis of the maximum sustainable visitor capacity. This strategy is being used in the Galapagos Islands, where the number of ships allowed to cruise this remote archipelago is limited, and only designated islands can be visited, ensuring visitors have little impact on the sensitive environment and animal habitats.
This article has been published with acknowledgement to the United Nations Environment Programme www.unep.org
About the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) Tourism and Environment Programme. Aware of and concerned about the negative environmental and social impacts of tourism, as well as the opportunities it offers, Ministers of the Environment have decided to give due consideration to this major issue with the aim of creating the adequate policy context to make the tourism industry sustainable. To that end, UNEP has been appointed by the Commission on Sustainable Development (CSD) as the Interagency Coordinator or lead agency responsible for implementation of Agenda 21 issues on tourism. Together with the World Tourism Organization, UNEP is the main focal point on sustainable tourism for CSD and the Convention on Biological Diversity. OCTOBER 2013
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HOSPITALITY - PROPERTY REVIEW
A Piece of Greece on South Africa’s West Coast
Club Mykonos is a popular holiday destination for both domestic and international tourists alike. This unique “Little piece of Greece”, with its flat topped Kalivas and brightly painted ballastrades, doors and shutters of blue, yellow, green and red, is dotted along the Langebaan Lagoon water’s edge and on the hillside above the waterfront. The location, architecture and ambiance make quite a statement, writes Jeannie Burns.
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PROPERTY REVIEW - HOSPITALITY
A drive up the West Coast, about one and a half hours from Cape Town, will take one to the town of Langebaan, situated on the shores of the Langebaan Lagoon. This is one of the most popular holiday destinations on the West Coast. Langebaan Lagoon is a large sheltered stretch of water. Saldanha Bay lies to its’ North, this is a natural harbour but due to the lack of fresh water, it was originally never developed into a major port. Only recently has it been developed into a modern harbour. The West Coast National Park, a protected conservation area, wraps around most of the lagoon. This stretch of water is not as cold as the Atlantic Ocean, hence the calm, clear, blue waters give this area an added attraction. Historical facts of Interest (skeletons of the sea!) A number of significant ships were wrecked off this coast and some sank near or in Langebaan lagoon. Since the 1600’s, records can be found of these shipwrecks. Bruydegom, a vessel used for carrying provisions, struck a rock, drifted and sank near Kraal Bay. The Merestein, a Dutch vessel built in Amsterdam, carrying a large cargo of coins, ended her days here and the wreck lies within the harbour area of Saldanha Bay. Divers can get permits from the port captain, if they wish to dive this wreck.
Accommodation at Club Mykonos There is a section for timeshare owners or Kalivas of varying size and sleeping capacity, to suit your group size and can be rented on a self-catering basis. The units are spacious and well equipped. The open plan living area with comfortable seating, TV, kitchenette and balconies including an outdoor braai facility make for easy living. The bedrooms all have their own private bathroom. The décor in the various units is done in shades of blue and white, which gives out a fresh and welcoming feeling! Facilities Club Mykonos boasts a well stocked and staffed guest information office, where all ones queries can be answered. Shops include the Marina Supermarket, Sport & Beach needs, Sweets from Heaven, Cafes and Coffee bars. Laguna laundry is self-service, and coin operated. There is a Conference Centre, Wellness Centre (CelluBeauty) with Jacuzzi, Steam room and Plunge pool. Restaurants The Bouzouki, situated on the Waterfront Marina with Beautiful views, is open all day serving buffet-style breakfasts, amazing pizzas and the option of an a la carte menu! The Greek Evening on Thursday OCTOBER 2013
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HOSPITALITY - PROPERTY REVIEW
nights, authentic and traditional is a must - let the party go on and “Break a Plate or two!” Lekka By Die See is a restaurant with a warm, friendly atmosphere situated on the beach. The menu offers a wide variety of seafoods. The ambience created with subtle lighting, the log fires burning, casual comfortable seating and a platter of tasty prawns or calamari - no better place to enjoy an evening. Boesmanland Plaaskombuis (Farm Kitchen), serves traditional South African dishes, while Little Venice, offers cuisine with an Italian touch. Activities Club Mykonos offers activities to keep all ages busy, and include: Archery; Mini Golf; Gym; Games Room; Quad Bikes; Wet Bikes; Paintball; Squash Courts; Soccer/Cricket Astro Turf; Tennis; Cycling; Indoor & Outdoor Pools; Casino; Kiddies Club; Saunas; Fishing Charters.
Attractions Club Mykonos is an ideal base from which to explore the surrounding attractions, which are certainly plentiful. The Lagoon itself offers a wide variety of water sports all year round, so this is a haven for the enthusiasts. Kayaks, canoes, yachts ( of varying sizes ), small fishing craft, in fact anything that floats will give one enjoyment in this beautiful expanse of water. Boat Cruises do trips twice daily, weather permitting. “The Perfect”, a luxury Catamaran embarks from the Marina Jetty and takes passengers on a sail in the Lagoon. This is a wonderful way to see the coast line, the birds that live near the water and learn and observe the wonder of the sea creatures. An interesting observation was the presence of several groups of seals huddled together upside-down with their tails out of the water. The reason for this is that the tails transmit the warmth from the atmosphere down their tails to heat their bodies under the water. A leisurely sail by a professional friendly crew is therapy for the mind, body and soul! Bird Watching in this region has become a popular attraction because of the great variety of species that can be sighted. Flamingoes, the Black Oyster Catchers, Cormorants and Sea gulls are frequently seen on the shores of the Lagoon. Each year the Curlow Sandpiper, Sanderling and Knot migrate here, making a journey of 15,000km from Russia to this Lagoon. The white sand dunes, the rare fynbos (natural vegetation) and large wetlands of the West Coast National Park contribute to this being a special “Bird Haven”. Digging for Fossils, at the West Coast Fossil Park, is another fascinating experience. Visitors are able to watch slide shows, go on guided tours and even dig to find fossils. The remains of many mammals, birds, reptiles and amphibians were buried and preserved in the sediments of the floodplain which was thought to be the estuary of the ancient Berg River. Discoveries have shown evidence of the remains of the ancient Big Five! The Flower Season draws a huge number of visitors to the West Coast and Namakwa. The Wild Flowers are world renowned. From July to October people flock here to behold this magical transformation to the countryside. 16
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PROPERTY REVIEW - HOSPITALITY
OCTOBER 2013
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HOSPITALITY - PROPERTY REVIEW
From the road sides down to the dry arid plains up to the slopes of the sandstone-mountains the flowers are a colourful mass. The multicoloured Vygies, tiny yellow Button Daisies, pink Nemesias, Blue Flax and the white Rain Daisies are some of the dominant species of the Wild Flowers. When the White Arum lilies can be seen in patches in the fields and along the road-side, then we know that Spring has arrived!
Environmental Considerations Club Mykonos ensures that its environmental impact is minimised. From encouraging guests to use resources wisely, to a hands on approach on promoting biodiversity in its Fynbos-rich surrounds, Club Mykonos aims to operate in the most sustainable manner possible. There are three key initiatives that Club Mykonos are currently focusing on; The first being the sustainable use of resources. Limiting the impact that our resort has on the environment has become an ongoing element of the resort, by being an essential part of our planning and future success. To save water, all shower heads have been replaced with new eco-friendly ones; timers were put on sprinklers ensuring that there is no water wastage; and notices were put up encouraging guests to hang up their towels if they require them to be cleaned. To save on electricity, all light bulbs have been replaced with energy saving bulbs, indoor swimming pools are heated through solar power, a geyser monitoring system is used to switch off geysers that are not in use, and there are also notices up encouraging guests to save electricity by switching off electrical appliances that are not in use. Recycling is also encouraged at the resort, as there are recycling bins placed all across the grounds. The second initiative that Club Mykonos are involved with is protecting the Fynbos reserves, with a key part of their social responsibility strategy being to manage the surrounding Fynbosenriched environment in a sustainable manner. The gardens are 99% indigenous which means low maintenance and water-use, and it includes a number of rare and endangered species. Where development is due to take place, plants are rescued and transplanted in open undisturbed places on the resort. A veld herbarium with over 180 examples were collected, pressed, mounted and labelled by the resorts horticulturist – this is used to help guests identify the vegetation especially during flowering season. The third initiative involves the implementation of a number of initiatives, aimed at rehabilitating the immediate surrounds that are affected by the resort. Namely the Fynbos rehabilitation where any Fynbos removed in building work is rehabilitated elsewhere on the resort, and dune rehabilitation which hasn’t as yet been implemented. By the summer time when nesting begins, a fence will be put up around Hobie Beach dunes to protect nests of the African Black Oystercatcher birds. In addition to these initiatives, Club Mykonos also look after feral cats on the resort using a controlled feeding programme. The cats are caught, sterilised and returned to the resort to aid in the control of rats, mice and snakes. With these initiatives, Club Mykonos has become a resort that is not only aware of the environment, but one who also appreciates it by getting involved with the necessary practices. For more information, visit www.clubmykonos.co.za
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HOSPITALITY - PROPERTY REVIEW
What makes Club Mykonos a popular holiday destination? The Prime location with its’ natural beauty, comfortable and affordable accommodation, a good variety of facilities, a large selection of activities, most helpful and genuinely caring personnel. These are certainly good reasons to make Club Mykonos and the West Coast region a travel destination of choice.
CLUB MYKONOS FACT SHEET AT A GLANCE Location: Type: Star rating: Accreditation: Eco Certification: TOMSA registered: Wheelchair friendly: Accommodation:
West Coast, South Africa. 126km from Cape Town. Resort 4 Star (TGCSA) TBA No No No Marina: 8x one b/r units (4 sleeper); Hillside: 25x one b/r units (4 sleeper), 23x two b/r units (6 sleeper), and 9x three b/r units (8 sleeper); Seafront: 30x one b/r units (4 sleeper), 37x two b/r units (6 sleeper), and 19x three b/r units (9 sleeper); Village: 22x one b/r units (4 sleeper) and 28x two b/r units (6 sleeper); Athenian Cascades: 12x one b/r units (4 sleeper) and 86x two b/r units (6 sleeper); Terraces: 12x one b/r units (2 sleeper) and 6x two b/r units (4 sleeper). Capacity: 1704 PAX in 289 units STO Rates: Available on application Facilities: Kids club, Swimming Pools, Spa, Gym, Sauna, Jacuzzi’s, Tennis, Squash, Marina, Conference Centre, Restaurants Services: Tours and Transfers by arrangement Activities: Quad Biking, Archery, Deep Sea Fishing, Wet Bikes, Paintball, Mini Golf and Walking Trails Attractions: !Khwattu Sanculture & Education Centre, Geelbek Heritage & Education Centre, West Coast Fossil Park Spa: Yes. Cellu-Beauty Spa. Spa facilities: Gymnasium, Jacuzzi’s, Plunge Baths, Sauna’s, Steam Rooms & Wet Rooms Gym: Yes. Inside the Cellu-Beauty Spa. Parking: Secure on-site parking WiFi: Wireless Internet available Restaurants / Bars: Beach Bar (seating ±90 PAX); Boesmanland Plaaskombuis (seating ±400 PAX); Bouzouki (seating ±350 PAX); Dockside Café (seating ±48 PAX); Lekka By Die See (seating ±110 PAX); Litle Venus (seating ±100 PAX); Oceans Pool Bar (seating ±64 PAX); Charlie Noble Restaurant (seating ±180PAX) Conference facilities: Yes. Seating for up to 500 delegates (cinema style) Wedding facilities: Yes. Chapel with seating for up to 50 wedding guests OCTOBER 2013
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LEGAL
is not clear what was intended i.e. was the intention additional ‘processing’ as defined but within the parameters of the ‘specific and explicit purpose’ or ‘processing’ beyond/different from it?
The NEW ‘POPI’ aka PROTECTION
OF PERSONAL INFORMATION ACT – PART 6 – PRINCIPLE #4 FURTHER PROCESSING LIMITATION
This section is an extension of the process limitation provisions contained in principle two (see page 26 of the September edition or read online at www.tourismtattler.co.za/?p=6628 This section is rather complicated by the fact that POPI does not define the concepts/words ‘further processing’ or ‘compatible’! It states that ‘further processing’ must be ‘compatible’ with the purpose for which the PI was collected in terms of principle 3 – it
Nevertheless it details the factors that will/are to be considered in order to determine whether such ‘further processing’ is ‘compatible’: • The relationship between purpose with the intended further processing and the original collection of the PI; • The nature of the PI; • The consequences of the intended further processing; • The manner in which the PI has been collected; • The contractual rights and obligations between the parties. It also details when such ‘further processing’ is in fact ‘compatible’: • The DS has consented to further processing; • The PI is available in public records or has been made public; • Same as 11.2 (d) i.e. It is in order to enforce a law, collection in terms of SARS Act, a court order or in ‘interests of national security’ • It is necessary ‘to prevent or mitigate a serious and imminent threat to public health or safety or the health of the DS or another individual’; • Same as 14.2 (d) i.e. It is for ‘historical, statistical or research purposes’ BUT RP must ensure it is only used for that purpose and is not published; • If authorised by the IPR i.t.o. section 34 i.e. it is in public interest or ‘involves a clear benefit for the DS or a third party’ to such an extent that the latter nullifies the rights to privacy provided for in the PPI. 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, October 2013.
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: (011) 325 0830
E-mail: info@savage.co.za
www.savage.co.za
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Pretoria: (012) 452 8200
MARKETING
Market Intelligence Report The information below was extracted from data available as at 27 September 2013, by Martin Jansen van Vuuren of Grant Thornton.
ARRIVALS The latest available data from Statistics South Africa is for January to August 2013: Current period
Change over same period last year
UK
193 187
-0.2%
Germany
124 861
14.1%
USA
128 579
3.6%
India
49 171
13.6%
China
65 406
28.3%
Overseas Arrivals (excl same day visitors)
1 077 678
6.9%
African Arrivals
2 878 423
4.9%
Total Foreign Arrivals
3 965 132
5.4%
NB: African Arrivals plus Overseas Arrivals do not add up to Total Foreign Arrivals due to the exclusion of unspecified arrivals, which cannot be allocated to either African or Overseas.
HOTEL STATS The latest available data from STR Global is for January to August 2013: Current period
Average Room Occupancy (ARO)
Average Room Rate (ARR)
Revenue Per Available Room (RevPAR)
All Hotels in SA
60.0%
R 951
R 571
All 5-star hotels in SA
60.1%
R 1 678
R 1 008
All 4-star hotels in SA
59.7%
R 917
R 547
All 3-star hotels in SA
60.2%
R 762
R 458
Change over same period last year All Hotels in SA
4.1%
8.9%
13.4%
All 5-star hotels in SA
7.9%
8.2%
16.8%
All 4-star hotels in SA
2.9%
9.1%
12.3%
All 3-star hotels in SA
4.3%
8.1%
12.8%
Passengers arriving on Regional Flights
Passengers arriving on Domestic Flights
5.3%
6.0%
-4.3%
Cape Town International
-6.0%
-5.0%
-2.6%
King Shaka International
18.0%
N/A
-6.8%
ACSA DATA
The latest available data from ACSA is for January to July 2013:
Change over same period last year Passengers arriving on International Flights OR Tambo International
WHAT THIS MEANS FOR MY BUSINESS Data from Statistics South Africa indicates that foreign arrivals continue to grow with Germany in particular, achieving strong growth of over 10%, which could be attributed to the decline in the Rand against major international currencies. Data from STR Global indicate that hotel rates are improving resulting in strong growth in RevPAR of over 10%, which could be attributed to the increase in foreign arrivals. Data from ACSA indicate that the number of passengers arriving on domestic flights continue to decline, which could be attributed to the reduction in available airline seats following the demise of 1Time.
For more information contact Martin at Grant Thornton on +27 (0)21 417 8838 or visit: http://www.gt.co.za OCTOBER 2013
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MARKETING
SOCIAL MEDIA MARKETING
– PART 3 –
Preparing the Social Media Community Analyses In part three of this series Pieter Philipse looks at some useful social media monitoring and analysis tools. Last month we started off by researching our present position in Social Media Marketing and I hope this gave you some clear ideas as to what might be lacking in your campaign or in fact maybe gained. I hope it sparked off some fresh thoughts and new ideas to help you along in the process. This month we’re going to start with a preliminary channel analyses (big words). What is important is that we get a feel for the research we are about to do in preparation for our research. Initially it is important for us to look at different data that can influence our success rates in different channels, the way that that data is obtained, and the way it is interpreted and displayed.
line posts- and you can click “negative” and “positive” to view the results of your scores. Importantly Social mention also counts the mentions of your brand, and ranks the keywords, hash tags, sources, and top users as well. Addict-o-matic. Another important Search site for you to use is: Addict-o-matic at: http://addictomatic.com/ Hashtags.org. For announcements about popular hash tags go to: http://www.hashtags.org/. Here you can find the most popular hash tags that are trending today.
We’ll especially take a look at the channels we are currently using; the kind of posts the people in our audience are making, and what methods our competitors are using to influence that same target audience. Our main goal at this point is to get a feel of whether these channels serve a clear purpose for our audience and for us. To start off with this, we can’t simply have a first account look at our company’s social pages. What we need is to gain a deeper insight and understanding from the start. We’ll do this by using a set of social media marketing search tools that are readily available on the web. Later on we will start to use other automation tools to interact with the social web. Our first goal with these tools is to look at what kind of data we can obtain and how we might be able to use it. In particular we are going to make use of: Facebook Insights. This will give you important metrics about your existing Facebook page if you have one. Go to: https://www. facebook.com/insights/ (while you are logged in). Social Mention. Measuring brand sentiment is important, so go to Social Mention: http://socialmention.com/ for some real-time social media search and analysis. This amazing tool provides a huge amount of data including a sentiment analyses of your on22
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For the moment just take a look and play around with these social media marketing tools, use words and search phrases that make sense to you. See what words are being used on Twitter and see what people are trending.. At the same time try to interpret the metrics you are viewing. In next month’s issue we will get down to using these tools in earnest to get to the bottom of how our audience is actually engaging and interacting. From this we will deduct what channels are suitable to our brands and products and at the same time pave the way for formulating successful social media marketing strategies. If you have any questions in the mean time, comment on this social media article on the Tourism Tattler website, or contact me at philipse@kondwana.com or leave a message at: www.kondwana.com.
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A Guide to
Off Road Driving The following educational resource is reproduced with acknowledgement to Nissan South Africa and will be published as a four-part series. Part 1 covers a general familiarisation on 4x4 terminology. - PART 1 -
GLOSSARY
Terminology & Definitions
Leaving A Good Impression Going off-road is a wonderful way to explore Africa’s natural heritage and get to inaccessible terrain but the vehicles have the capacity to severely damage sensitive eco-systems — we owe it to future generations to be careful when off-road, the impression left behind should be one of a responsible off-roader and not strips of black rubber, ruts from wheel spin and rubbish strewn across the countryside.
Air Fuel Mixture: The ratio of air to fuel that makes the fuel mixture.
It’s really quiet simple, one has to care for the environment and the rights of others – be they the local populace or fellow off-roaders. Understand the consequences of off-roading, and if necessary attend a driver training course that covers off-road technique, the environment and vehicle recovery. Plan your trip and, in leaving a good impression, try to improve on the terrain: repack ruts with rocks, take out your litter and anything else you may find – spare the route the negative effects of your passage.
Aquatic: Organisms that grow, exist and are evident in water.
Engage 4x4 when leaving the tar, high-range gearing for gravel roads and low range as you start trails and obstacles. This will immediately limit the impact of your passage.
Off Road Guidelines • Travel in terrain that is suited to your vehicle. • Stay on the designated route and avoid the temptation to create a new track unless absolutely necessary. • Be aware of sensitive areas and avoid them at all cost. • Adhere to speed limits even in off-road situations, they are there for a reason. • Respect the local population, fauna and flora. • Practice safe convoy rules and avoid creating dust. • Use eco friendly soaps and cleaners and do not dispose of toxic materials such as old oil etc. • Use water with care and do not camp too close to waterholes, this may scare off animals. • Practice safe fire techniques, check for restrictions and do not make fires on the drip lines of trees, as this will harm their roots. • Remove your litter and do not wash dishes or clothes in rivers or dams. 24
Tourism Tattler Trade Journal
• Use the cat-latrine technique for toilets. • Obey signs and close all gates when passing through. • Practice safe recovery techniques and restore any possible damage after badly stuck vehicles have been extricated. • Always use tree protectors when winching to avoid ring-barking trees, ensure minimal movement when winching as even with a tree protector one can chafe the delicate bark of a tree. • Avoid wheel spin as the flora and ground cover bind the topsoil, an open rut can start soil erosion in the rainy season. • Never ride over young plants and saplings they are the future shade and food for animals that live in the area. • Remove trees that block the road if possible, rather than driving past them, creating a new track for others to follow. • When camping, respect the rights of others. Avoid loud music and excess drinking – we are all in the bush to enjoy the solitude, loutish behavior can spoil the experience for all.
OCTOBER 2013
Anthropogenic: Changes bought about by humans to the environment. Anti-Sway Bar: A suspension component that reduces excessive side-to-side body sway.
Aquifer: Permeable rock able to store water. Axle Housing: Exterior housing containing the axle shafts and differential. Ball Joint: An articulated joint consisting of a ball in a socket, mainly in front suspensions as it accommodates a wide range of angles. Bell Housing: Bell shaped enclosure for the clutch and flywheel on a transmission. Basic Sanitation: Minimum standard of services required for the safe, hygienic, and adequate collection, removal, disposal and resultant purification of domestic wastewater and sewage from households. Biodiversity: Diversity that may exist among living organisms from whatever source (land, sea, air and rivers) and the ecological areas where they exist. The term also includes diversity within species, between species and ecosystems. Biodiversity Hot-Spot: An area identified as a conservation priority because it contains a high number of endemic species and faces a threat. Body Roll: The tendency of the body and chassis to lean toward the outside of a turn when cornering. Bolt-On: Aftermarket items that can be installed without special modifications. Bottom-Out: When the vehicles suspension is fully compressed and its bump stops don’t allow further travel. Brake Fade: A loss of braking power, the result of the brakes’ friction surface or the brake fluid becoming overheated. Bump Stop: Rubber or Polyurethane block used to limit suspension travel. Candle Power: An Imperial measure of brightness. Carbon Dioxide (CO2): A naturally occurring gas within the earth’s atmosphere. Produced when animals exhale, vegetation rots, and when material-containing carbon is burnt or broken down e.g. fossil fuels such as petrol and diesel. Carbon Tax: A tax on emissions was implemented on 1st September 2010 on new vehicles. It is applied for every gram of CO2 per kilometre the vehicle emits over 120g/km.
NICHE TRANSPORT
GLOSSARY
Terminology & Definitions Carrying Capacity: The maximum population of a given organism that an environment can sustain. Catalytic Converter: An emission control device that routes exhaust gases through an oval shaped canister filled with palladium and platinum pellets. Catchment: The area of land drained by a stream or river. Coastal Zone: The area of land and sea along a coast. It includes estuaries, on and offshore areas. Concessions: Areas of land owned and managed communally, mainly by traditional people/landowners. Conservation: Maintaining environmental quality and function. Crawl Ratio: The lowest gear ratio in the vehicle. Degradation: The reduction or loss of the biological or ecological function within an area. Ecological Footprint: The load imposed by people on nature. Ecosystem: The combination of animal, plant and microorganisms within an environment, interacting as a unit. Ecotourism: Tourism to a natural environment. Effluent: Wastewater that flows from a human generated system into a river or the sea. Electronic Control Unit (ECU): Computer unit for engine management. Central Processing Unit (CPU): Sends signals to components. Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI): Computer controlled system to deliver fuel. Electronic ignition: An ignition system that uses transistorised circuits instead of contact breaker points. Emission: Pollution discharged into an environment. Endangered Species: A plant or animal species whose number has been reduced to a critical level or whose habitats have been encroached upon, causing a risk of extinction. Endemic: A species that occurs within and restricted to a geographical region. Environmental Degradation: When the capacity of the environment to achieve social and ecological objectives and needs is reduced. Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA): The process followed prior to taking environmental decisions. EIA regulations require procedures and reports for activities that may have a detrimental effect on the environment.
Environmental Degredation Driving on beaches has been prohibited in South Africa for some time now, but it is possible to drive on beaches in neighbouring countries. However, all indications are that this may be stopped simply due to bad behavior and the lack of capacity to police these areas. General guidelines however are: • Use demarcated exit and entry points. • Ensure that driving is permitted. • Obtain the necessary permit. • Reduce tyre pressure. A softer tyre causes less damage and gives more traction. • Do not pollute. • Drive on wet sand below the high tide mark, but check local requirements. On the East Coast, turtles breed above the high tide mark, but in certain areas on the Western shores, crustacean breeding populations exist. • Never drive on beaches designated for swimming, always consider other people, vehicles and your passengers. With regard to sensitive areas, be aware of the following: • Dunes are vegetated sand ridges adjacent to beaches where plants and small animals live. They are sensitive eco-systems and can be damaged by irresponsible driving. • The Backshore Area is the area between the dunes and the high tide mark. Turtles lay eggs here; plants grow and regenerate, making them vulnerable. • Sand and Mud Flats are flat unvegetated areas adjacent to shores of estuaries and lagoons. Regularly flooded by salt water, they are home to crustaceans such as mud prawns. Vehicle weight compacts the sand and kills life. • Shell Middens. That prehistoric people lived along the coast is evident by the deposits they left behind. Some of these valuable archaeological deposits are 120 000 years old. They are found in
dune areas all along the western and eastern coasts. Middens can be identified when you find the following: bones and bone fragments, stone artifacts, ostrich shell fragments, beads, seashells, rounded and burnt stones charcoal and ash. Off-road vehicles can destroy such a site in minutes! • Salt Marshes. Low lying salt marsh areas are situated at estuaries and alongside lagoons. They are the breeding place for crabs, shrimp, fish and birds as well as certain vegetation. • Intertidal Zones. The area between the low and high tide marks is subject to powerful wave action. Relatively resilient, the more sloped zones can suffer from erosion caused by 4x4 driving. These relate to beach driving, banned in South Africa around 1994 when the Environmental Conservation Act set out controls, the only exclusions today will be for nature conservation and research personnel, anti poaching units, other government bodies and in certain instances, handicapped people. South Africa’s offroaders are working with the Department of Environmental Affairs on a self-regulatory strategy, which will address inland areas. Damage has been done to Fynbos vegetation in the mountainous areas, as well as to inland rivers and wetlands. Make yourself aware of any sensitive areas on your route and do your best to avoid them. 4x4s allow us the freedom to venture into inaccessible terrain. We have a good road infrastructure, favourable climate and abundant trails, but with this comes a responsibility! As an off-roader you are an environmental custodian, it’s up to you to be a good one and leave the right impression!
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TRANSPORT
General terminology
Engagement may be electronic, pneumatic or hydraulic. As a rule you will engage the locker before entering the obstacle if you were able to correctly assess the situation (read the line).
Diff-lock: Commonly known to off-roaders as a locker, the differential lock or diff-lock is a variation of a standard open differential. An axle has two side shafts joined to the differential that are driven by the differentials gears. This allows wheels to rotate at different speeds when turning around corners. The open diff provides the same torque (twisting or rotational force) to each wheel. The gearing allows a different rotational speed. In other words in a left hand turn the differential will slow down the left hand rear wheel allowing the right hand outside wheel which has less traction to cover the greater radius. This also stops what is known as tyre scrubbing or scuffing. This is however a drawback off-road, when the loss of traction to a wheel is sensed more rotational speed is directed to that wheel causing it to spin wildly – at this point you are generally stuck. That’s when the diff-lock comes to play; it overcomes this limitation by locking both wheels, allowing them to turn together regardless of the traction lost. This allows the wheel with traction to pull you through the obstacle.
The same principle applies to lockers fitted to front and rear axles as well as the centre lockers fitted to a full-time 4WD vehicle. In this case, the open centre diff prevents wind up between the front and rear axles and will be locked up when the vehicle goesoffroad. Selectable lockers, which are generally fitted as original equipment (OE) by most manufacturers, operate from a switch fitted on the dash or centre console to engage them. The benefits are better drivability when used as an open locker, with on demand locking capability. Unskilled drivers put the drive train components and tyres under tremendous strain if they leave the lockers on. Lockers are particularly useful when axle articulation is limited (vehicles with independent suspension). Limited Slip Differentials (LSDs) are a compromise. They operate automatically with a smooth action directing additional torque to the wheel with traction, and are
GLOSSARY
Terminology & Definitions Environmental Implementation Plan (EIP): A plan promoting cooperative governance for environmental management. Environmental Management: A multi-disciplinary process of managing environmental resources. The aim is to ensure that the developments are sustainable and do not exceed carrying capacity. Environmental Management System (EMS): Procedures drawn up to provide a framework for the development of an environmental management system with a supporting audit programme (in accordance with international standards). Exhaust Manifold: Component that takes exhaust gases from the cylinders through the exhaust system. Fan Clutch: Thermostatically controlled clutch that engages or disengages a mechanical radiator cooling fan according to the engine’s cooling needs. Fauna: All the animal life within a region. Flora: All plant species within a region. Floodplain: The area adjacent to a river that is seasonally flooded if water levels rise. Fuel Injector: Electro-mechanical device that delivers fuel to the cylinders. Fynbos (Afrikaans): A fine-leafed bush, mainly found in the Cape. Gas Shock: Shock absorber (damper) with separate compartments; one containing hydraulic fluid; one containing nitrogen gas. The gas keeps pressure on a flexible disc that, in turn, keeps pressure on the fluid, thereby reducing the fluid’s tendency to foam under rough conditions. G-Force: Measure of forces generated during cornering, acceleration, or deceleration, expressed in units of gravity. Gusset: Triangular metal support used to add strength; is welded in place. Heritage: Sites of geological, zoological, botanical, archaeological, and historical importance. Indigenous Species: Plants, animals, or microbes native to a particular area. Invasive Alien Species: Species intentionally or unintentionally introduced to an area where they would not naturally occur, which then reproduce and invade areas beyond those into which they were originally introduced. Kerb Weight: Total mass of a vehicle with fuel, oil and coolant, but without a load or passengers. Legislation: Statutory laws promulgated by a legislature or governing body. In South Africa, the executive branch of government must confirm legislation before it enters into law. Lift: Any 4x4 that is raised either by tyres, suspension or body lift kit. Marine Protected Area (MPA): A marine or estuarine habitat where types of fish or plants are protected or where an entire ecosystem is set-aside as a park or conservation area. National Park: Land set aside to protect plants, animals, marine life and scenery. Over Steer: Cornering condition where the rear tires slide toward the outside of the turn. Over-Utilisation: Overuse of resources, which affects their future use and the environment. Proportioning Valve: Hydraulic braking valve that varies the braking force to the front or rear wheels, depends on pedal pressure, load, and weight transfer, to reduce or eliminate wheel lockup. Power Take-Off (PTO): An accessory powered by the engine, usually a winch.
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GLOSSARY
Terminology & Definitions Rack-And-Pinion: A steering system that uses a pinion gear at the end of the steering shaft to engage a horizontaltoothed bar known as the rack, which is attached to the tie rods and the steering knuckles. Rebound: When a shock absorber returns to its original length after compression. Re-Circulating Ball Steering: Uses a worm gear on the end of the steering shaft. Red Data List/Book: A catalogue of species in danger of extinction or already extinct - as published by the International Union for the Conservation of Nature (IUCN). Red Data Species: All species appearing on the Red Data list. Regulation: The required conduct, standards and procedures, which must be adhered to so as to comply with legislation. Rev Limiter: Adjustable electronic device, which restricts engine rpm to a pre-determined limit. Shackle: Connector between the rear of a leaf-spring pack and the chassis. Soil Conservation: An intervention to stop soil degradation or reverse it, through physical structures (contours and terraces), or by biological means (intercropping and grass strips). Soil Erosion: The loss and movement of soil, generally caused by running water, wind, and gravity. Stakeholders: People and organisations involved or interested in an area or an activity. Sustainability: An activity that meets the needs of present and future generations through responsible management of resources. Trans-frontier Conservation Area (TFCA): Areas where international boundaries overlap composing multiple conservation areas, which may have differing conservation status. Human barriers may hinder free movement of animals. Triple Bottom Line: A theory of sustainable development that propounds a positive social, environmental and economic consequence (bottom line) to the activity. U-Bolt: Commonly used to attach an axle housing to a leaf-spring pack. U-Joint: Transmits rotary motion while swiveling. Used at both ends of a driveshaft. Under Steer: When a vehicles front tyres slip ahead of the rear tyres, causing the front end to slide or push toward the outside of a corner. Variable-Ratio: Steering At low speeds, the steering response is quicker, at high speeds, the ratio is reduced for stability and handling. Vehicle Identification Number (VIN): A serial number used to identify a vehicle, generally of 17 digits. Linked to chassis and engine number.
more capable than an open differential but they are not capable of the full lock up of a diff lock. They are however a passive safety feature as they will operate when slip is sensed e.g. If you skid on a wet tar road! Aftermarket Automatic Lockers engage and disengage automatically with no intervention from the driver (when a wheel is required to spin faster during cornering). Automatic lockers tend to be harder on tyres and can be noisy when engaging and disengaging. More modern vehicles have started using traction control systems, sometimes in tandem with a rear diff-lock. These systems use wheel sensors coupled to a central processing unit (CPU) to monitor wheel speeds, if slip is sensed between wheels, the traction control system momentarily brakes the slipping wheel, transferring power to the wheel that has traction. Many of these systems use the ABS (anti-lock braking) to perform this function.
Critical Angles and Dimensions Approach Angle: The maximum angle that a vehicle can climb or descend into an obstacle without hitting its front. The type of bumper and the location of the front wheels are very important here, if set far back they will reduce this angle. Fitting an offroad replacement bumper will also improve one’s approach angle. Departure Angle: The maximum angle at which a vehicle can exit an obstacle without fouling. This also applies when reversing out of an obstacle. Many aftermarket items such as tow bars, long-range tanks, low slung spare wheels and drop plates can reduce this angle. Ramp or Break-Over: The angle formed by lines drawn from the front and rear tyres footprint to the midpoint of the wheelbase on the chassis. The greater the angle, the less likely you are to break over on a ridge and foul the underside of your vehicle. Ground Clearance Measured on a level surface this
will be the distance from the bottom point of the lowest component to the groundgenerally the rear differential casing. Roll-Over Angle: Your roll angle is the angle measured from a vertical line that your vehicle adopts when cornering, obviously influenced by speed and the centre of gravity as well as the height/load combination. Your roll-over angle is the maximum angle at which you can either negotiate a steep side slope or corner at speed before the vehicle rolls. Wading Depth: Check your vehicle’s handbook for this important measurement. Taken on a flat surface it is the point at which your engines air intake will ingest water when traversing water. Ingestion of water into an engine could lead to the failure of mechanical components and a costly repair bill. If in doubt wait the river out! In Africa, flooding rivers normally subside after about two hours. Consult the locals, as there is often a better crossing around the corner. If you have to cross, fit a wading sheet over the nose of the vehicle, as this will keep water out of the engine compartment if you maintain a steady momentum.
Wiring Harness: Part of a vehicles electrical wiring system. World Heritage Site: The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation known as UNESCO encourages the identification, protection and preservation of natural heritage sites around the world deemed to be of outstanding value to humanity. In South Africa these are: • The Cradle of Mankind • iSimangaliso Wetland Park (St Lucia) • Robben Island • uKhahlamba/Drakensberg Park • Mapungubwe • Cape Floral Region-protected areas • Vredefort Dome • Richtersveld National Park
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Biodiesel and Liquid Petroleum Gas (LPG): Is very popular abroad, performance is similar to petrol and is cheaper as it is not taxed. Space is lost, as you have to fit an extra tank. Biodiesel contains vegetable matter and performance is similar to diesel. Turbocharger: Engine performance can be improved by fitting a turbocharger, this utilises exhaust gas to force the air/fuel mixture into the cylinders under pressure thereby increasing power.
A steady momentum pushes a bow wave away from your vehicle and lowers the water level around the vehicle slightly. If you strike a hidden obstacle or stall, the water will wash back over the vehicles nose. Some offroaders even suggest attacking the crossing at a 45° angle with a predetermined exit point, this keeps the flow of water to the side of the vehicle rather than head on. If you cannot safely walk in the river – do not to cross. If you are unable to ascertain the depth of the water crossing you could even try and reverse in. The flat rear of your vehicle pushes water away, lowering it around the front of your vehicle. If you see that the water is to deep or strike an obstacle underwater you can engage first gear and drive out, this also keeps your winch accessible if needed. Wheelbase: The distance centre to centre from the front wheels to the rear wheels on the same side. Centre of Gravity: The centre of mass in a vehicle. It can change dramatically due to passenger load, cargo and driving dynamics. Due to design and factors such as ground clearance it will be higher than that of a passenger car. Thus rendering a vehicle unstable under situations where loss of control is imminent, e.g. cornering too fast on gravel, skidding on gravel, sharp steering movements, traversing slopes etc. You should note that wheelbase (height and
track width) plays a key role here. This means that load distribution is critical, weight should not go on the roof but rather as close to the rear axles as possible. Changing the track width of your 4x4 may improve your centre of gravity but could come with adverse consequences.
Intercooler: Cools intake gases from a turbocharger, cooler air is denser and richer in oxygen, which improves ignition.
Power Sources Diesel: A diesel engine uses a system known as compression ignition. It is a closed system, making it marginally more waterproof than a petrol engine. Starting is by means of a glow plug, which is much like an element for cold starting. Torque develops at lower revs making diesel 4x4s ideal for off-road use. They are more economical that their petrol counterparts but some have shorter service intervals and require the lower sulphur fuels that may not be readily available. Modern diesel engines are quieter, cruise well on road and are well suited for towing. Some vehicles suffer from lag – delayed response to throttle at high altitude. Petrol: Known as a spark ignition engine – a spark ignites the fuel in the combustion chamber. Petrol engines deliver their torque at higher revs and have longer service intervals. They are not as forgiving as diesel derivatives when off-road and require unleaded fuel, which is not available across Africa. They cruise easily at all speeds and tow well.
Snorkel: Many off-roaders mistakenly believe that a snorkel is a device fitted to the air intake that enables you to wade through incredibly deep, long stretches of water, if correctly fitted and sealed it can, however prolonged immersion in water may ultimately cause a relay or other electrical component to fail as they are not waterproof. A snorkel allows your vehicle to breathe cooler, cleaner compressed air, which optimises engine performance. 28
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rear axles. A two speed transfer case would typically transfer power in high ratio: 1:1 gearing and in low ratio: 2:1 gearing (or lower in certain cases). High Range 4x4: For mild conditions to override slip and where speed is a requirement such as sand and gravel driving. Low Range 4x4: Used in more arduous terrain requiring control, total power and torque at slower speeds. Used on sand and beaches but to avoid bogging down through excessive wheel spin one should run in a higher gear. This depends on the power source (petrol or diesel) and the driver’s experience. Drive Train: Power goes from the engine to the gearbox through driveshafts to the differentials and the wheels via the side shafts – this is your drive train. Four wheel drive systems that exist are: All-Wheel Drive (AWD): A system in which all four wheels are driven that lacks a multi range transfer case. Generally have a lock mode to equally distribute power when offroad. Sensors and the CPU control power to the wheels. Full-Time 4x4: A vehicle that constantly has power to all for wheels, power can not be disconnected, has a centre diff lock to equally distribute power to both axles when going off road.
Transmissions This is really a matter of preference, as some prefer manual gearboxes whilst others prefer the feeling of control that an auto box gives off-road. Many auto boxes have a manual mode enabling one to shift gears oneself and some feature a lock done mode to a crawl gear, which allows absolute control, as the vehicle will not run away from you. Automatic gearboxes tend to have an advantage under conditions where there is a lot of slip (clay and mud) as you can limit wheel spin. Many off-roaders still express a preference for a manual transmission as they feel more in control of the vehicle and the situation they may be in if able to change gears themselves and prefer the ability to brake an engine on descents. A further form of transmission, namely the continuously variable transmission or CVT is available. Fitted to some SUVs with a high range 4x4 option. It transmits torque in a stepless fashion without shift shock. The system employs belts and cones or pulleys to change gear ratios. Transfer Case: Is an additional gearbox transferring power equally to the front and
Part Time 4x4: A vehicle fitted with a 4x4 system where power to the front wheels can be disengaged manually (lever) or electronically (switch). For non off-road conditions the rear wheels are powered. Clutch: Used in manual transmissions to disconnect drive from the engine to the gearbox. The clutch is operated using the clutch pedal, either mechanically (by cable) or hydraulically, and consists of a pressure plate (fixed to the flywheel) and clutch plate, activated by a thrust bearing. Depressing the clutch pedal will cause the pressure plate and clutch plate to move apart, interrupting the transmission of power to the gearbox.
Locking Hubs Manual Freewheeling Hubs are fitted to allow you to disengage the front hubs from the side axle shafts when 4WD is not in use, which reduces wear and tear. You have to physically engage them by moving a slide on the hub from the free to the lock position – on both front wheels. Automatic Locking Hubs perform the same function when 4WD is engaged, except the driver does not leave his seat, certain automatic freewheeling hubs have an additional manual lock up using a wheel
spanner or socket for rough terrain. Braking Systems: Vary according to the sophistication and price of the vehicle in question. A standard setup consists of brakes to the wheels, which may be drums on the rear and discs up front, discs all round and a hand or parking brake; this brake may brake the rear wheels or the rear prop shaft. Anti-Lock Braking System (ABS): Wheel sensors that stop lock up and skidding by cadence braking. Electronic Brake Force Distribution (EBD) A braking system that distributes braking pressure to individual wheels. Electronic Stability Programme (ESP)/Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC): A system coupled to ABS wheel sensors that determines possible loss of control when cornering and corrects this either by braking a wheel or reducing throttle.
Chassis and Suspension The Chassis: A frame to which the body is mounted, the suspension and axles are mounted to the underside keeping the wheels in contact with the terrain.
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General configurations are ladder frame and monocoque. Ladder Frame Chassis: Consists of two parallel beams running lengthways joined to one another by cross members. Axles and suspension are mounted to the chassis. A Monocoque: A unitary construction, all components are integrated (body, chassis, suspension etc.). This system is used on many modern SUVs and gives passenger car like ride comfort. Wheel articulation and the vehicles ability to flex is reduced. Independent Front Suspension (IFS): Allows wheels on the front axle to move up and down independent of one another, used on most Double and Single Cabs coupled to a live rear axle. All-Round Independent Suspension: Fitted to many modern SUVs allowing all the wheels to move up and down independently this reduces wheel travel, but gives a more comfortable ride. All-Round Live Axle: A solid or beam axle allowing opposing wheels to operate in tandem. Coupled to coiled springs and shocks. Tough pick-ups and large wagons use this, offers greater travel but compromises ride comfort. Multi-link: Solid-axle suspension design using coil springs instead of leaf springs, the axle is located by longitudinal and lateral suspension control arms, or links. Torsion Bar: Suspension spring that looks like a long metal rod. One end is attached to the vehicle’s chassis, and the other end is attached to the suspension’s control arm.
When the control arm moves, the torsion bar is twisted and then springs back to its original shape. Wheel Travel: The total distance a wheel can move up and down; affected by suspension travel and wheel well clearance. More wheel travel means a more flexible suspension and more traction. Articulation: The ability of the wheels on an axle to follow the terrain and maintain
contact (keep traction) with one wheel going up and the other down to their fullest extent. Cross Axle: This happens as diagonally opposing wheels e.g. right rear and left front lose traction. To be continued. Part 2 of the Off Road Guide will be published in the November edition and will look at Vehicle Recovery in remote wilderness areas. For more information visit: www.nissan.co.za
Offroad Guides And Tour Operators Association of South Africa In 2005 the Minister of Environmental Affairs and Tourism called for owners and users of inland 4x4 recreational driving tracks to move towards better-regulated and more equitable practices in respect of their activities in South Africa’s inland environment. Users and owners of these tracks were told unequivocally at the time that regulations similar in nature to those imposed on off-road vehicle activities on beaches would be unilaterally issued by government for sensitive inland areas if a suitable form of regulation could not be found and implemented for the off-road industry. The Off-Road Vehicle community responded through the establishment of the National Off-Road Workgroup (“NOW”), an industry representative Section 21 Company, in October 2005. The NOW comprises the 4 Wheel-Drive Guides Association of South Africa (4WDGA); the Association of All-Wheel Drive Clubs of Southern Africa (AAWDC); the Association of Motorcycle Importers and Distributers (AMID); the National Association of Automobile Manufacturers of South Africa (NAAMSA); the South African Off-road Trainer Association (SANOTA); the South African Route Owners and Operators Forum (SAROOF); and the South African Vehicle Renting and Leasing Association (SAVRALA). The 4WDGA subsequently changed its name to the Offroad Guides And Tour Operators Association (OGATO), on 23 November 2011. OGATO’s Mission Statement is: To represent and assist South African Offroad Guides and tour operators in their business of promoting and facilitating tourism in experiencing and discovering the treasure trove of Africa’s natural and cultural heritage – with sensitivity and responsibility. Members of OGATO can be recognized by the display of this sticker, which includes their Membership number, on their vehicles. For more information visit: www.4wdga.com
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