December 2 2015 I No. 2378 SOUTHERN AFRICA’S TRAVEL NEWS WEEKLY

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NEWS NEWS REPORT SAA PACKAGED TRIPS GOVERNMENT TRAVEL New board ‘imminent’ What’s hot in 2016 Will new framework be effective?

INSIDE Page 2 Page 4 Page 7 Skywise under scrutiny Ship ahoy! Dorine Reinstein Spokesperson for Skywise, Martin Chemhere, said the airline would be KYWISE has been called to meeting with the ASLC to discuss appear before the Air Services “recent and now resolved” issues. SLicensing Council (ASLC) on The ASLC, which is part of the December 9 to prove that the airline Department of Transport, is the still has the necessary funds to regulator mandated to license and operate. control domestic air services in Andries Ntjane, deputy director terms of the Air Services Licensing of licensing and permits for the Act. If an airline fails to comply with Department of Transport, told TNW its licence conditions, the council the probe came after several flights has the authority to suspend the were grounded in October as a licence for up to two years or result of a delay in payments to the cancel it. Air Traffic Navigation Services (ATNS) Meanwhile, travellers have vented and Acsa (see TNW October 21). their frustration on hellopeter.com and on social media regarding the cancellation of flights, following “Travellers have vented Skywise’s reduction of services their frustration regarding the between Johannesburg and Cape cancellation of flights.” Town from eight to six a week. Passengers booked on the cancelled flights have complained that they Variety Cruises, represented by Discover the World in SA, is running a The ASLC had requested Skywise have not received refunds and that special offer for sailings in the Seychelles, from R25 999pps. The offer, to submit a report to prove that the airline has not responded to which is for travel from December 12, includes return flights from “everything is in order” with the queries by phone or email. Martin Johannesburg and seven nights on board the MY Pegasus. Stops along airline, Andries said. “This is a says Skywise is in the process of the way include the islands of St Anne Marine Park, Curieuse, Cousin, normal precaution,” he said, to clearing all outstanding refunds. He Anse Lazio, Aride and St Pierre. Hello sailor! Yvonne Skerritt (head of ensure that the South African urged those who have not yet been sales) is ready to board. Photo: Shannon Van Zyl consumer was protected. refunded to be patient.  DHA drags feet on immigration reg changes

Dorine Reinstein Idris Elba, had to cancel his trip Minister of Tourism, Derek on when the concessions would to SA after his daughter was Hanekom, rebuffed this, saying take place. “The steps to accept TRAVEL and tourism authorities denied entry as she did not have “you really ought to know that the visa requests by post and set up are growing frustrated with the the necessary documentation provisions are in regulations, not biometric testing at its airports delay in the implementation of to comply with the immigration the Act [and therefore don’t need are yet to be implemented. concessions made to South requirements. to be passed by Parliament]”. Visitors with minor children are Africa’s immigration regulations by Home Affairs spokesperson, DA Shadow Minister of Tourism, still being asked to produce the Inter-Ministerial Committee a Mayihlome Tshwete, defended the James Vos, called on Deputy unabridged birth certificates. month ago (see TNW November 4). DHA on Twitter, saying “because President Cyril Ramaphosa to It is of great concern that the The regulations came into the the law came through Parliament it resolve the visa regulations issue Department is dragging its feet on spotlight after English actor, can’t be changed overnight”. and to provide clear time frames this matter.” 

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Top web stories New board for SAA  TNW pick: Pentravel exits Asata  Home Affairs to halt passport applications ‘imminent’  Clarity on French visas  Travelstart expands ITC offering Hilka Birns Public Enterprises, Natasha a revolving door position  Immigration regulations: SAA stood to lose millions Mazzone, said the board was lately with the recent ARLIAMENT has “imploding” under Dudu’s appointment of SAA head instructed National tenure, with the airline in of Technical, Musa Zwane, PTreasury to expedite the “the worst crisis it has been being the third acting ceo appointment of a permanent in this past year”. She this year. board at SAA. Deputy finance said the recent vote of no minister, Mcebisi Jonas, confidence by SAA’s pilots in Spoke too soon told TNW the appointment the chair and non-executives SAA was left with egg of a new board was “going of the board should be seen on its face over an through the parliamentary earlier statement on process”. He could not give “The best thing for SAA the suspension of chief a date when it would be commercial officer, concluded. is for the chair to just Sylvain Bosc, over the Meanwhile, SAA go. Do the right thing alleged Abu Dhabi route chairperson, Dudu Myeni’s misrepresentations. SAA future hangs in the for SAA and for South admitted Sylvain had not balance after facing hostile Africa and resign!” received notification of the questions in Parliament disciplinary enquiry and TNW7370SD over the financial state and in a “very serious light”. formal complaints against leadership woes at South him before the statement ® Africa’s national carrier (see secretary-general, Sibongile was issued. Rubes By Leigh Rubin TNW November 25). Nkomo, agreed there “The decision as to A recent joint sitting of appeared to be confusion whether Mr Bosc is guilty of Parliament’s Standing about the roles of board such alleged misconduct will Committees on Finance members and that Dudu be taken by the chairperson and Public Enterprises saw appeared “too powerful”. of the disciplinary enquiry. Democratic Alliance MP and Meanwhile, SAA board To the extent that the media Shadow Minister of Defence, non-executive director, release may suggest that David Maynier, insist that Yakhe Kwinana, confirmed Mr Bosc has been found Myeni resign. “The best that a shortlist for a new guilty of any misconduct or thing for SAA is for the chair permanent ceo had been impropriety it is sincerely to just go. Do the right thing sent to finance minister, regretted and no impairment for SAA and for Nhlanhla Nene, and that to Mr Bosc’s identity was and resign!” a response was expected sought or intended,” DA Shadow Minister of shortly. SAA’s ceo has been SAA said.

Parliament tightens screws PARLIAMENT has ordered of changing the contract blamed the economic SAA to table its overdue with Airbus. A warning downturn, competitor 2014/15 annual financial about this is contained in airlines threatening its report on January 15, an internal memorandum market share and the present a progress by SAA executives to the negative impact of the new report by December 15 board, but the media have immigration regulations, and explain at a full-day been interdicted from which cost it R550m in the “Looks like we can chalk another one up for parliamentary grilling early publishing this. current year because of a ‘It’s the journey, not the destination.’” next year what progress Government granted SAA 41% drop in children flying. has been made with its a R6,5bn going concern The estimated loss due long-term turnaround guarantee in December to the unabridged birth strategy. last year. SAA’s total debt certificate requirement Founding Editors: Minister Jonas, told raised with the support alone had been R574m John H Marsh (1914-1996) Leona Marsh (1923-2003) a joint sitting of the of State guarantees now per year before it was EDITORIAL Standing Committees stands at R11,4bn. He overhauled.

TRAVEL NEWS WEEKLY Group Editor: Natasha Schmidt [email protected] on Finance and Public said SAA also raised Operating costs were 7% www.etnw.co.za Features Editor: Debbie Badham Enterprises that Treasury a request for proposal below budget, resulting in Contributors: would decide in the next (RFP) for an additional a R363m saving, thanks Published by Darise Foster Hilka Birns Travel & Trade Publishing (Pty) Ltd Max Marx Dorine Reinstein few weeks whether to R15bn to consolidate to lower fuel prices (offset Printed by Juka Printing (Pty) Ltd Carina Borralho provide a further R4bn to all its existing debt by the weak rand) and cost Phone: (011) 327-4062 Photographer: Shannon Van Zyl R5bn guarantees to SAA, and raise more working controls. These included Fax: (011) 327-4094 Production Editor: Ann Braun which the airline needed capital. The airline was 484 staff cuts (from E-mail: [email protected] Web: www.nowmedia.co.za PUBLISHER to finalise its 2014/15 also seeking unsecured 8 747 to 8 263) and a Address: Now Media Centre, Kate Nathan [email protected] books as a going concern. bridging financing to meet freeze on new positions 32 Fricker Road, Illovo Boulevard, GROUP PUBLISHER The matter was being its liquidity requirements with only crucial vacancies Illovo, Johannesburg. David Marsh [email protected] delayed by the proposed while finalising the RFP. being filled. An internal PO Box 55251, Northlands, 2116, South Africa. ADVERTISING renegotiation of an Airbus According to Treasury, moratorium was in place Sales: [email protected] aircraft contract (see TNW SAA has made a nett loss on all non-critical capital Advertising Co-ordinator: Nov 25). At the time of of R648m for the year to expenditure. Anthea Lucas [email protected] publication, the application September 2015. Revenue According to SAA’s PRODUCTION was still being assessed for the first six months corporate plan, the airline Design Head: by Treasury’s fiscal and was 13,4% below budget will be profitable at an Dirk Voorneveld liabilities committees. They due to poor passenger operating level in three SUBSCRIPTIONS are looking at the legal revenues on international years and fully profitable in Circulation [email protected] and financial implications and regional routes. SAA five years. 

2 n Wednesday December 2 2015 QUICK READ FOR DECISION-MAKERS TNW7362SD NEWS Packaged trips – what’s hot in 2016

Carina Borralho Another trend the tour influx of visitors to Italy next operator is seeing is demand year,” she says. RAFALGAR sales in for responsible travel. There has been a South Africa have “South Africans in general noticeable increase in South Tincreased 16% from care about the environment,” Africans wanting to travel to last year, despite the says Liesa. “Trafalgar takes Spain and Portugal. “These weakened rand. The tour travellers into communities two Iberian destinations offer operator is noticing several where they can engage with incredible value for money emerging trends with regard and support local artisans.” and a lot of interesting to packaged tours, Trafalgar South Africans are also history,” says Liesa. product manager Liesa resilient and the tour “Apart from the price factor, Bissett told TNW. operator is still seeing as well as the flexibility due ‘Gold’ luxury A big trend is being able demand for destinations to less sightseeing being to stay connected. “People where there has been included, many young people want to stay in touch with unrest, for example are drawn to art, history and friends and family back Egypt and Beirut and, the different cultures, and home so, by providing guests most recently, Paris. guided holidays are a great with free WiFi on board our “South Africans want to way to enjoy these, while Insight Vacations launched its new Luxury Gold collection guided coaches, we are travel and are putting their they have the freedom and in the SA market at a press breakfast on November 11 at allowing them the freedom fears aside.” flexibility to go off on their 54 on Bath in Rosebank. Pieter Beyers, the brand’s gm to communicate,” says Trafalgar predicts that visits own too,” says Trafalgar md, for SA, said: “The Luxury Gold Collection is built on four Liesa. to Italy will increase next Theresa Szejwallo. pillars: all the accommodation is five-star; exceptional Trafalgar has also created year. “The Pope declared She says not all young regional cuisine provides true epicurean dining; a an app that allows travellers 2016 a Holy Year, which people are looking to party ‘Signature Experience’ is included in every city visited; to preregister prior to means pilgrims have their on their holiday, and many and pax are accompanied by ‘Travelling Concierges’ travel and meet their fellow own separate door into the have a genuine interest for and selected local experts who impart their expertise.” travellers beforehand. Vatican. This will see a large the finer things in life.  Pictured at the event with Pieter is Amanda Hardy, The Travel Corporation’s PR manager. Photo: Kate Nathan Lufthansa groups services under one brand LUFTHANSA has grouped services under a single brand Express Helicopter, customers all road, rail and helicopter name, Lufthansa is offering a can also make their onward services that it provides for wide range of local or regional journey by air. “Our intermodal travellers between airports travel options from a single strategy is designed to provide under the single ‘Lufthansa source that can be booked in our customers with a travel Express’ brand name. addition to flights. process that is as smooth and This includes high-speed ICE The airline also plans to seamless as possible,” says trains, modern long-distance provide inbound travellers Markus Pauly, Lufthansa’s buses, limousines and with a new Express Shuttle director of infrastructure helicopter services. service to and from alpine and development at the By bringing the various ski resorts. With Lufthansa Frankfurt hub. 

To the point

Cemair will launch flights between Bloemfontein and George on December 10. From Sunday to Friday, flight 5Z0122 will depart Bloemfontein at 09h30 to arrive in George at 10h20. Return flight 5Z0121 will depart George at 12h00 and arrive in Bloemfontein at 12h50. TNW7350SD

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4 n Wednesday December 2 2015 QUICK READ FOR DECISION-MAKERS TNW7371SD AirHeads NEWS A snapshot of the week's airline news

Emirates enhances Algiers service EMIRATES now offers more capacity on its Algiers flights after Travelstart expands switching from an A340-300 to a larger B777-300. The B777 offers 97 additional economy-class seats per flight, a 45% increase. The ITC offering number of premium cabin seats remains unchanged, with 12 first- class flat-bed seats and 42 business-class seats. EK757 leaves RAVELSTART has in a travel agency.” all airline inventories and Dubai on Sundays, Wednesdays, Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays jumped on the Mikha’il said neXt’s can add their mark-up on at 08h45 and arrives in Algiers at 13h10. The return flight, EK758, T‘ticketing agent’ decision to cut its charges to the client’s quote. “Our departs Algiers at 15h45 and lands in Dubai at 01h25 the next day. bandwagon, opening up was to attract young ITCs retain 100% of their its booking management entrepreneurs. “We will still mark-up, are given access system neXt, by removing charge for cancellations to Travelstart’s negotiated Lufthansa launches new USA service admin and ticketing fees. and amendments and there fares, and are supported by LUFTHANSA will introduce a new non-stop service between Frankfurt The platform can now are also airline penalties, the OTA’s -based and San Jose, California, on April 29. On Mondays, Wednesdays, be used by aspiring ITC but we no longer have technical team,” he said. Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays, LH 488 will depart Frankfurt at owners who have no prior admin or ticketing fees.” The platform is also 10h40 and arrive in San Jose at 13h40. The return flight, LH 489, travel industry experience, He said the switch in available to travel agents in will depart San Jose at 15h20 and arrive in Frankfurt at 11h35 the says neXt’s global sales focus was a move to Kenya, Turkey, Nigeria and following morning. The flight will offer three cabin classes: business and marketing manager, empower entrepreneurship. Egypt, and will launch in class, premium economy and economy. Mikha’il Ernest. “That’s basically what the UAE this month. Since “We are now open to we are about now. We its launch in 2013, the anyone wanting to start are moving towards neXt user base had grown their own business. They empowering people that to 3 531 in South Africa – do not necessarily need to want to start their own 40% of whom had signed have been an agent before businesses.” up in the last eight months, or have any experience ITC users have access to Mikha’il said.  KZN WELCOMES Le Touessrok reopens for business THE Shangri-la Le World Leisure Holidays land-based activities, Touessrok Hotel & Spa has been appointed it offers guests access has reopened following exclusive distributor of the to Ilot Mangenie, a extensive renovations that property in South Africa. private secluded island commenced in April this Located on the east with 3,5km of pristine The 2015 South African Women’s Open is heading to the KwaZulu- year. coast of Mauritius, the beach. The resort is also Natal’s South Coast for a fourth year, thanks to the support of the The hotel opened its five-star Shangri-la Le within five minutes of Hibiscus Coast Municipality. doors on November 1 Touessrok has three Ile aux Cerfs, location and has been rebranded villas and 200 sea-facing of the 18-hole, par-72 The 54-hole tournament sanctioned by the Women’s Professional Golf as the Shangri-la Le guestrooms and suites. championship golf Association (WPGA) of South Africa will be played at San Lameer Touessrok Hotel & Spa. Along with water- and course.  Country Club from November 29 to December 1. It will also be the first counting event on the 2016 Sunshine Ladies Tour and Chase to the Investec Cup for ladies. Nikita Tavlet selects the top specials from Travelinfo The 2014 SA Women’s Open, which was co-sanctioned with the Ladies European Tour, was highly successful and achieved a media value of $5.6-million (R79 million).  Beachcomber Tours. Mauritius late booking offer – valid for travel from December 12-18. Six nights’ accommodation at the four-star Le Mauricia (20% discount included) from R16 720pp sharing. Add Hibiscus Coast Municipality mayor Nomusa Mqwebu has through the R560pp per night for the all-inclusive option. Rate includes set departure airfare from Johannesburg, return South African Women’s Open, launched the Mayoral Golf Academy in airport-hotel transfers, breakfast and dinner daily, free land and motorised water sports as per brochure. the Hibiscus Coast Municipality. Bonus: one child under six shares and eats free. Rate excludes airport taxes of R4 700pp.  World Leisure. Special Zanzibar rates from R13 070pp sharing. Offer includes return flights from According to Mqwebu, the Hibiscus Coast Municipality believes it is important for the SA Women’s Open to continue its legacy on the South Johannesburg to Zanzibar on Mango Airlines, approximate airport taxes, return transfers, seven nights’ Coast as the event has become a very significant attraction in this region accommodation at Uroa Bay Beach Resort in a garden room with breakfast daily. Valid for travel until from an economic, tourism and sport development point of view. March 31.  Fairmont Hotels and Resorts (KwaZulu Natal). Summer promotion from R1 300pp sharing. Offer includes “We have 11 golf courses on the greater South Coast, some of which one night’s accommodation and breakfast. Add R250 for dinner per person per day. Special is valid for new fall within the top rankings in South Africa. We are extremely privileged bookings only and applicable to leisure travellers. Valid until March 31. that organisers and Hibiscus Coast Municipality were able to secure this  Sparkling Waters Hotel and Spa. (North West) Special rates from R800pp event in our piece of paradise,” says Ugu South Coast Tourism’s ceo sharing. Rate includes dinner, bed and breakfast. A minimum stay of two Justin Mackrory. nights applies. Valid for travel until August 31.  Inspirations Travel & Tours. Greece – early-booking special. Book and pay in full by February 28 and save 10%. Athens, Mykonos and Paros package now selling for R10 750pp sharing. Rate includes all transfers; ferry Athens-Mykonos and Paros; Hydrofoil Mykonos-Paros; one night in Athens, three nights in Mykonos, two nights in Paros, one night in Athens; three-star accommodation including breakfast throughout plus day tour to Delos from Mykonos. Valid for travel from May 1-8. Other travel dates also available.  Costa Cruises. Seven-night Med package from R8 230pps in an inside cabin. Offer includes accommodation on board Costa NeoRiviera, meals, entertainment and port charges. Itinerary: Istanbul-Mykonos-Santorini-Argostoli/ Kefallinia-Dubrovnik-Venice. Offer excludes flights. Departure on April 11.

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6 n Wednesday December 2 2015 QUICK READ FOR DECISION-MAKERS MANAGING GOVERNMENT TRAVEL Government has been working closely with the trade in an effort to resolve the payment and expenditure issues surrounding government travel. Dorine Reinstein reports. Will the new framework be effective? T HAS been an interesting Club Travel is optimistic guide how we as an industry is enforced?” couple of years for that the work performed and government engage Asata could be pivotal in Igovernment travel. In will significantly improve but will also guide industry this process, Themba says. 2013 and 2014 there the entire process between engagement with private “We have to look at each was a massive crackdown TMCs and government sector too,” says Otto. government department and on wasteful government departments. A special unit has been the problems they have, expenditure, with former “This is a new process, established to ensure that asking ourselves how we can Finance Minister, Pravin which will take time to turn suppliers are paid within 30 intervene at that level. Let’s Gordhan, putting strict around within government,” days, provided a legitimate not point fingers but help containment measures in agrees Themba Mthombeni, invoice has been submitted. streamline the process.” place for government travel. ceo of Duma Travel. He Minister in the Presidency As a result, the government says the framework is responsible for Planning, The end of ‘ridiculously and Asata have been going to help TMCs a great Monitoring and Evaluation, low’ fees working together over the deal, noting that previously, Jeff Radede, says: “A Should all TMCs comply with past year to develop an procurement discussions comparative analysis of Asata’s code of conduct, effective travel procurement within government took place national departments it would put an end to Themba Mthombeni framework and code of in isolation. “If they can get between 2013 and 2014 “ridiculously low” service conduct to help improve industry input, it will take the their inability to handle travel showed that there had been fees being submitted in compliance with Treasury process further,” he says. lodged cards, is going to improvement in the average tenders and, consequently, regulations with regard to “We’re owed a lot of remain a problem, he adds. number of invoices paid agents earning revenue wasteful expenditure; to money by government, so What’s more, the within 30 days.” from hidden margins in address budget deficits we have welcomed this government’s inability to The travel industry, travel items booked, Gary as a result of inaccurate intervention by Asata – it structure tenders for travel however, has not seen a says. “This will then ensure tracking of expenditure came at the right time differently to those for significant improvement. As a more level playing field and misallocation; and to for us,” says Themba. He other consumables and long as there is no obligation between TMCs that do help government officials says Asata’s intervention services, and its inability to for government departments operate ethically and those obtain the best return on helped initially as there properly design a coherent to use lodged cards, the that haven’t in the past,” investment. was sudden compliance and relevant travel policy cash-flow risk is still a he says. Ceo of Asata, Otto de from most government framework, prevent progress, serious one, says Gary. The main challenge is that Vries, says government’s departments. However, there Mike says. “This is a recipe “I would caution smaller government officials tend to Chief Directorate of Strategic was also some backlash as for continued abuse and agencies to tread carefully focus on travel agency fees, Procurement together government officials felt TMC fraud. until processes are working agrees Themba. “They are with the industry Member partners had “complained “Government is paying as they should.” blinded by fees, which are Advisory Forum (MAF), about them behind their dearly for this through poor Themba believes only a very small percentage which was set up by Asata, backs”, creating a negative service and marked-up there should be a more of the travel spend, without have conducted intensive sentiment, he said. prices to compensate for constructive intervention realising how much a research, engaged with “I think the relationship their tardiness in payment in the back office when it travel agency or TMC can stakeholders and end users, between the travel trade and and lack of proper travel comes to payments. reduce their travel spend in analysed spend patterns government is fundamentally policies and procedures,” He says the departments general.” and looked at improvement flawed due to government’s he says. that don’t pay often He adds that once TMCs opportunities to develop lack of understanding that don’t have the capability have passed the technical a sourcing strategy for travel is not like other Late payments or manpower to chase evaluation for their tender, travel and accommodation. service procurements in The main challenge TMCs travellers to sign off everything comes down to This includes travel that the bulk of the cost face in their dealings invoices. “We should be pricing. “No matter how agents or TMCs, domestic comes from air, car and with government is the taking stock of why certain capable you are, you might accommodation, domestic hotel providers and not the issue of non-payment or things are not happening. Do end up not winning because car rental and domestic air TMC,” says Mike Gray, ceo late payment. “We have these departments have a of your fees. If you are a transport. of Uniglobe Travel. addressed ongoing poor sufficient number of people capable agency and you Gary Mulder, financial Government’s requirement payment habits that saw our to handle payments? If you really want the account, director for Club Travel, for credit from TMCs and members owed R350m at come up with a policy, are you’ll have to do something says although it is too soon prepayment of accounts on the end of August last year. there sufficient hands to about pricing, and that’s not to see any improvements, their behalf, coupled with The framework will not only ensure that this policy always the best thing to do.”

QUICK READ FOR BUSIEST PEOPLE Wednesday December 2 2015 n 7 MANAGING GOVERNMENT TRAVEL

New database will save Dispute resolution mechanisms The National Treasury and the 4 The business’s age analysis time and money MAF (through Kitso Consulting) or official complaint will be THE newly launched Central Only Asata-accredited have agreed on a process to be attached to each case log Supplier Database (CSD), travel agents and TMCs followed with regard to outstanding submitted; where travel agents can will be able to register on amounts. All contract payment 5 Treasury will send a letter with self-register, is the first the new CSD. “This is as a disputes must be brought to the applicable information for step towards an easier direct result of months of the attention of the Governance, comment from the offending procurement process for engagement between Asata Monitoring and Compliance Unit department; both government officials and National Treasury to within the Office of the Chief 6 Treasury will provide feedback and TMCs. define terms against which Procurement Officer (OCPO) at to the industry association Phumza Macanda, government will procure the National Treasury and will be regularly in this regard; National Treasury’s travel and accommodation resolved as outlined below: 7 The department will acting chief director of in future,” says Otto de simultaneously resolve the Communications, says Vries. Process steps: issue directly with the business the establishment of the The fact that government 1 If a business has outstanding concerned; CSD would significantly Otto de Vries departments are only able amounts owed by government, 8 If no resolution is found, the reduce duplication of to procure through Asata the business should log business may request that it effort and costs for both supplier and agents is a big step towards ensuring the issue with its industry meets directly with the offending government. that the integrity of the TMC industry is association and upload an department and a mediation Travel agencies will only need to upheld in the government sector, says accurate age analysis (split on process may begin; register as a supplier with government Gary Mulder. separate tabs by province and 9 Progress regarding case logs once. Thereafter, they should confirm He adds that the CSD could see department) on a monthly basis; will be shared continuously and at least once a year that their data is more TMCs tendering for government 2 If a business has experienced managed at quarterly meetings still current and updated, she says. work, which would be an advantage ill practice by a government between National Treasury and “TMCs will therefore have exposure to for government officials. “Increased official or department, a formal industry; all spheres of government.” competition will always be to the complaint may be logged 10 Contract disputes (Asata At the launch of the CSD, Minister benefit of procurement managers. with the relevant industry members will co-operate with of Finance, Nhlanhla Nene, said the However, it is important that the association; any inquiry conducted by Asata system would increase transparency. procurement managers are educated 3 The association will extract the to facilitate resolution of a “As you automate you remove the about best practice in travel, the case log and submit it monthly dispute involving government human element and there is a huge tools available and how best to work to the dedicated person at or another Asata member or possibility of the reduction of corruption with TMCs to ensure optimal travel Treasury; service provider).  because that platform is transparent.” management.”

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8 n Wednesday December 2 2015 QUICK READ FOR DECISION-MAKERS TNW7365SD REPORT ASK AN EXPERT Does a company’s culture enable rogue traveller behaviour? Rogue traveller behaviour in an organisation can cost a company millions. Travel managers should question why their travellers feel so comfortable straying from company policy. Kim Parker, Wings Travel Management’s head of business development for Corporate, in sub-Saharan Africa, shares her thoughts.

T’S no secret that, in the conform to policy. can they. In the long run, can play an important role of poor traveller behaviour current global economy, “However, another of our the cost associated with in helping companies to is the financial burden it Imany companies are clients is far less strict on non-adherence and non- curb their expenditure. We places on the company, initiating strict procurement policy. If a C-level employee enforcement of company highlight the impact that maintains Kim. However, policies to curb spiralling travels to London and books policies can run into the certain behaviours could there are also non-financial overheads. However, some a business-class seat it millions.” have on travel spend for repercussions. “For employees still abuse does not really concern the the travel manager. Our instance, when travellers loopholes in the system, powers that be, because Bad booking behaviour suppliers also keep us up to are ‘under the influence’ on particularly when it comes to the value that the traveller Another aspect of traveller date on traveller behaviour a flight or arrive late at a business travel. is going to bring to the behaviour that can prove and we can relay this guesthouse and are abusive This irresponsible costly to companies is information to the company, to the staff, we often behaviour is often due to a when a traveller books a to help them devise cost- hear about this from our particular type of company “In the long run, the flight with a very short time saving initiatives.” suppliers, and the traveller’s culture that enables rogue cost associated with period prior to departure or She further explains company can suffer travel expenditure and makes last-minute changes that in these instances, considerable reputational a lack of adherence to non-adherence and to flight details, says Kim. Wings Travel Management damage as a result.” corporate travel policies, non-enforcement of For instance, a traveller will send a goData report Kim explains that, in says Kim. may come out of a meeting to the client to provide these instances, Wings “We have definitely seen company policies can early and decide to change a breakdown of the does get in touch with the a correlation between run into the millions.” their ticket to catch an traveller behaviour and its client to discuss what corporate culture and earlier flight. implications for company could be a sensitive traveller behaviour,” What’s more, she notes expenditure. “We also subject. “Fortunately, says Kim. “For example, we business is in the millions. that there is a trend towards advise around implementing we maintain a close have a client whose ceo will In this company culture, travellers disregarding strategies to improve relationship with our clients only travel in economy they do not really mind if company policy when it savings, such as booking to ensure that we can be class.He has very low travel is not strictly in line comes to airline choices flights no less than one frank about poor behaviour tolerance for any C-level with company policy. This and booking flights on week in advance.” from their employees,” she executive or line manager culture filters down and certain carriers to gain The worst consequence comments.  who travels outside of this employees lower in the frequent flyer benefits, policy and, consequently, hierarchy feel that if those instead of booking with the there are hardly any rogue C-level travellers can fly most cost-effective carriers. travellers who do not business class, then so Similarly, employees may book a hotel of their preference instead of accommodation that is in line with company policy. They might also choose to drive a luxury rental car or make use of a chauffeur- drive service instead of the most financially viable option. Once an employee engages in this behaviour without any repercussions from the line manager, others learn that they can also ignore the rules. “This is, unfortunately, something that the travel management company cannot address,” says Kim. “It is up to the line manager to take this up with the employee and develop a culture where rogue behaviour is not tolerated. “However, a TMC Kim Parker TNW7346SD

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10 n Wednesday December 2 2015 QUICK READ FOR DECISION-MAKERS COMMUNITYNEWS JOBS Births, deaths, marriages, promotions – we want to know! Please fax or e-mail TNW’s Natasha Schmidt, at [email protected] or (011) 327 4094.

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Camp Manager – Botswana Conference Consultant – Quantex Recruitment Group Cape Town 2+ years’ in a similar international Quantex Recruitment Group client based lodge/camp Dynamic conference consultant environment. Experience working with 1-2 years’ travel industry in Botswana & an understanding of experience required by leading TMC. the culture. Qualification for permit Own transport essential. Willing to train a candidate with potential! purposes essential. Email: [email protected] Email [email protected] Intermediate Leisure Consultant Senior Leisure Consultant – – Bruma Johannesburg North Professional Career Services Professional Career Services Handle leisure bookings. Passionate Handle all leisure bookings. about sales, able to reach and Beachcomber Tours recently hosted Flight Centre agents on Sales and target driven. Amadeus. exceed set targets. Overseas travel. an educational to Mauritius. Pictured here at the five-star International travel an advantage. Amadeus. Afrikaans speaking. Paradis Hotel & Golf Club, enjoying a golf lesson are (from R12000 + commission. R8000 + comm. left): Ruan Buys (Flight Centre Tygervalley 1); Cedric Frank Email: [email protected] Email: [email protected] (Flight Centre Cavendish); Ettienne Walters (Beachcomber Tours); Daiyaan Nabee (Flight Centre Pinelands); and Gerrit Business Development Manager US Luxury Consultant – – Cape Town Cape Town du Plessis (Flight Centre Worcester). Lee Botti & Associates Lee Botti & Associates East Africa T/O seeks top notch Business driven individual required consultant to join their VIP team. for expanding luxury brand! Hands Travel history advantageous. on experience for East Africa Sal R25 0000. essential! Sal: R 35 000 +. Email: [email protected] Beautiful belles Email: [email protected] In-Bound Tours Consultant – VIP Payroll Expert – Sandton Johannesburg North Equity Connections cc Equity Connections cc Senior role covering IR, annual Suit intermediate/senior with audit preparations, third party extensive FIT/Groups reservations payments, employee data experience. Knowledge of South/ upkeep etc. VIP Premier, relevant Southern/East Africa. Ability to effectively sell these destinations experience essential. needed. Email: [email protected] Email: [email protected]

Groups Specialist – Marketing Administrator – Rosebank, Gauteng Cape Town – Durbanville Thompsons Holidays Club Travel 4 years’ experience in handling Individual with strong communication and project managing groups and skills, articulates well, outgoing incentive travel packages. and approachable. The job Email: [email protected] includes assisting with marketing drives, campaigns and social Ticketing Consultant – media maintenance. Uniworld recently hosted a group of agents on board the Cape Town – CBD Email: [email protected] River Beatrice to enjoy the delights of sailing along the Club Travel Payroll Administrator – Sandton Agent needed for the centralised Danube. Pictured here (from back) are: Elzette Fourie Wendy’s Travel Personnel (Cruiseabout); Marichen Kiessig (XL Aloe Travel); Lesley ticketing department. Minimum 3-5 years’ experience managing Taylor (XL Aloe Travel); Shelley Vey (Sure Giltedge Travel); one GDS. At least 2 years’ large multiple payrolls on VIP Premier. Antoinette Stapelberg (Pentravel); Jane Drummond (The ticketing experience. Amadeus, Bookkeeping and reconciling skills. Galileo, Worldspan or Sabre! Strong focus on Excel. ADBC/Macros/ Travel Corporation); Cheryl Ellis (Fishhoek Travel); Ristelle Email: [email protected] BIM. Email: [email protected] Louw (Pentravel); Bridget Marshall (Pentravel); Jenny Nelso (Fishhoek Travel); and Kaitlyn Edward (Pentravel). TNW7503 These adverts were selected from the vacancy section of www.travelinfo.co.za For more details contact [email protected]

TRAVEL NEWS WEEKLY Promote your product in our

Sea shells in Seychelles Club Travel, in collaboration with World Leisure Holidays, Air Seychelles and Zurich Travel Insurance, hosted a trip for agents to the Seychelles. The travel FEATURES gurus spent seven days exploring the island and lazing on a talcum-powder beach! Pictured here are the Club Contact: [email protected] Travel agents enjoying their time on the island. or 011 214 7356

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QUICK READ FOR BUSIEST PEOPLE Wednesday December 2 2015 n 11 TNW NEWS

To the point

Durban’s Protea Hotel Edward has geared up for increased demand for accommodation during the end-of-year holiday period with the completion of 30 new rooms that will be available from December 17. The new rooms comprise 26 standard rooms, two family rooms and two suites, taking the total number of rooms in the hotel to 131. The hotel has also added three boardrooms to its eight multipurpose venues, offering amenities for between 10 and 260 delegates in a Ready for your close-up? range of set-ups. Budget Rent a Car is calling on all Club Red travel agent members to dress up in the Budget colours – blue, orange and white – and take a fun photo, and send it through to [email protected]. The pics will go into a weekly draw and one lucky winner will get 100 Club Red roses. Pictured here (from left) are Budget Rent a Car key account managers for travel sales: Cynthia Dicks, Kathy Venner, Bonolo Pitsoe and brought to you by eTNW and TRAVELINFO Camille Janse van Rensburg. Photo: Shannon Van Zyl The end of Schengen?

Dorine Reinstein checks on Schengen’s external through heightened security borders while they waited for checks on embarkation. Let’s wait and see HE European Union deeper changes. Thaybz Khan, marketing has reconsidered its France has also pushed for executive of Cruises Have you had fewer enquiries for Europe after the recent Tpolicy of open borders, implementation of the PNR International, says cruise- terror attacks? tightening checks at external initiative, which will involve the goers should now anticipate 38% borders of the passport-free collection of EU passenger more rigid security checks,  Clients have Schengen area for all travellers data, such as names, travel in addition to the standard adopted a wait-and- – including EU citizens. This dates, itineraries, seats, processes, where guests are see approach follows the recent terrorist baggage and contact details, photographed and presented  It is too early to say 24% attacks in France and threats by the end of this year. The with a SeaPass Card before  Yes, we’ve had a few of other attacks in parts initiative has been discussed embarkation. cancellations 19% 19% of Europe, including, most for the past three years, with Rachael Penaluna, business recently, Belgium. concerns raised over how to manager of Sure Maritime  No, travellers are The EU interior and protect personal information. Travel, told TNW travellers still planning to visit justice ministers agreed, Meanwhile, increased were enquiring about special Europe at a special meeting in security measures are being deals for Europe. “Corporate Brussels on November 20, felt throughout the travel and leisure clients are still that EU travellers would industry. MSC Cruises recently travelling. They are not no longer be exempt from cancelled a call at Durban with spooked.” She adds that it is passport controls and would the MSC Sinfonia. important to advise clients to be subject to systematic Ingrid Roding-Tudor, MSC register with Registration of eTravel is the ITC market leader in South Africa and assists senior Travel and co-ordinated checks. Cruises spokesperson, says South Africans Abroad (ROSA). Consultants and Travel business owners to realise their dreams. If you have These will be established that until further notice all The information allows the ever dreamt of owning your own travel business or would like to cut costs by the end of the year and visits to passenger ships Department of International by doing away with your IATA license and improve your current business efficiencies then you should call eTravel. We run the back office for over an upgrade of the border have been cancelled. “It is Relations and Cooperation to 200 Independent Travel Companies and specialise control systems, including with great regret that, as a assist SA citizens in the event in making your travel business a success by offering an electronic connection to result of the Paris attacks, of an emergency. It’s also a the best commissions, overrides & a comprehensive Interpol databases, at all security on passenger ships idea to provide clients support structure. If you have a client base, 5 years external borders by March has been raised across the with the number of the SA travel consultant experience or already own your own business but want to make more, then contact 2016. Meanwhile, French world. Unfortunately, South embassy at their destination, us! You’ll be amazed at how easy it is! Interior Minister Bernard Africa is not excluded from the she says, and to opt for Contact Tammy on 0861eTrave1 Cazeneuve said during a new safety regulations being longer connecting times as or [email protected] press conference that Europe imposed.” passengers could face delays would “immediately” tighten Also, passengers will go at airports.  TNW7136

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12 n Wednesday December 2 2015 QUICK READ FOR DECISION-MAKERS