January 7/17 2015 I No. 2332 Southern Africa’s Travel News Weekly

TRAVEL NEWS WEEKLY TNW6846SD

NEWS Report Report Delta Air Lines Venue Inspector What does 2015 hold? Travel tailored to pax’ needs Inside Holland America’s ms Rotterdam Industry experts share their views

INSIDE Page 4 Page 7 Page 8 SAA to drop its Beijing route? Dorine Reinstein and that SAA will drop its Beijing partnership with Etihad would Caro Malherbe route, currently its worst serve to expand SAA’s Asia performing route, accumulating Pacific network points through IR China will commence losses of R309m per year. expansion of the airlines’ direct flights to South SAA acting ceo, Nico existing codeshare agreement. AAfrica from March as Bezuidenhout, said in a media “This not only holds part of the strengthening of briefing in early December that particular benefits for SAA its codeshare agreement with the airline would terminate customers, as our network SAA, an inside source has told certain unprofitable routes in reach in the region will expand TNW. The airline will operate the next three months as part substantially, but commercially direct flights to Johannesburg of its 90-Day Action Plan. SAA will now more strongly from Beijing with a 45-minute The plan aimed to effect compete in markets where, layover before continuing on R1,3bn in annual savings in until now, our presence has to Cape Town. “The final detail the 90 days, including R507m been limited. This supports is happening this month for on savings on Asian routes, one of our strategic objectives, Tabassum Qadir, co-chairperson of Skywise Airlines, at the operations in March,” the Nico said. which is to expand our network December launch with Allan Lunz, md of Bidtravel. source confirmed. presence globally as well as Photo: Kate Nathan DoT deputy director: “The airline will in Africa.” licensing and permits, Andries terminate certain Bloomberg News reported Ntjane, confirmed that Air at the end of last year that it Skywise bookings to China had made a request unprofitable routes in had obtained a confidential for designation to operate the next three months document showing that SAA open soon on the route to South Africa. was considering scrapping its He explained that, since Air as part of its 90-Day direct Johannesburg-London Dorine Reinstein co-chairperson of Skywise. China was a licensed operator, Action Plan.” route, directing traffic through “This day is significant as there shouldn’t be any major Etihad’s Abu Dhabi hub. THE long-anticipated entry into Nelson Mandela was freed hurdles. “It’s just a formality.” SAA has also strengthened Sylvain has refuted this, saying South African skies of low-cost from prison after 27 years and In December last year, SAA its partnership with Etihad it is merely speculation. “SAA carrier Skywise was announced we want to mark ‘Freedom of announced that it would Airways. SAA will launch direct has no intention of terminating at a grand launch event at Skies’ on February 11.” strengthen its bilateral daily flights to Abu Dhabi from or reducing its presence on Melrose Arch on December 13. The airline’s motto, Less is co-operation with Air China. Johannesburg, starting March the Johannesburg-London Bookings for the airline’s new More, expresses its intention The airline said in a statement 29. The flights complement route.” route between Johannesburg to bring low, low fares to the that the key element in this Etihad’s existing flights, Meanwhile, SAA has been and Cape Town will open SA market so more people can strengthened relationship offering a combined double- transferred from the Ministry on February 11, with flights afford to fly. would be some network daily frequency on the route. of Public Enterprises to commencing in March. Skywise, started by a group reconfiguration for both airlines The airlines have also doubled the Ministry of Finance. It The reason Skywise opted including Rodney James and to provide better passenger the number of routes in the was announced that both to launch during South Glenn Orsmond, the originators and cargo services between codeshare agreement from 24 the Ministry of Finance and Africa’s lowest travel season of 1time, has been in start-up South Africa and China and to 49. National Treasury were working is to mark the anniversary of mode since mid-2012 but has countries adjacent to both. Sylvain Bosc, SAA gm of with SAA on measures that Nelson Mandela’s release from been plagued with licensing This has led to speculation Commercial, told TNW the To page 12 prison, says Tabassum Qadir, To page 2 ...All Students ON AIRFARES FROM

JOBURG & CAPE TOWN Tel: CPT 021 418-1366/7 & JNB 011 012-9460/1 TO Windhoek, Lusaka, Harare, Frankfurt etc. Airport: CPT 021 936-2755 & JNB 011 978 5055 email: [email protected] [email protected] 25% OFF T&C Apply www.airnamibia.com.na TNW7263 NEWS To the point Bigger Bidvest lounge at CPT

Skukuza Airport has launched a new website, www.skukuzaairport. Liesl Venter it was clear a bigger space Premier Lounges country com, that includes useful information regarding the airport, the Kruger was required. wide, has unisex toilet National Park and the adjacent Sabi Sand Private Game Reserve. The IDVEST has opened “Our previous facility at facilities, showers, free WiFi, site also features videos and a gallery of pictures. Airlink operates daily its new International 340 sqm could handle around complimentary hot and cold Premier Lounge at Cape 60 to 70 people at a time. snacks, a range of beverages, scheduled flights between Johannesburg and Cape Town to Skukuza. B Town International Airport. “This facility, while only and a smoking facility. Each The new lounge is larger slightly bigger at 400 armchair has been fitted with than the previous one and sqm, will be able to easily its own USB port and power is conveniently located just accommodate up to 100 point. The lounge is also after passport control in people, thanks to clever wheelchair friendly. the international departures design,” he told TNW. “Our Next up for renovations terminal. aim is to carry these design is the Premier Lounge at The lounge caters for more elements through to all our OR Tambo International than 90 000 people annually lounges, creating as much Airport’s domestic terminal and Gavin Bell, md of Bidvest comfort for travellers as and Bidvest’s new lounge at Premier Lounges, said possible.” Bloemfontein Airport. customer feedback had been The facility, which The Cape Town lounge is sought and considered during represents the new look open Mondays to Sundays the upgrade of the facility and and feel of Bidvest’s from 05h00-23h00.  Iata partners with agency TNW6005SD associations on NDC study ® By Leigh Rubin Rubes THE International Air Transport analysis in the following The study will evaluate the Association and a coalition areas: issues from the perspectives of national travel agent  Understanding the impact of large, medium and small associations, including Asata, (from a business, technology agencies, including both are collaborating on a study and commercial perspective) business- and leisure-travel- to look at options that could of the NDC for travel agents. focused agencies, gathering benefit travel agents as the  Exploring options to views from airlines, global New Distribution Capability overcome possible distribution systems, travel (NDC) standard is considered obstacles to successful technology firms, and for implementation by airlines implementation of the NDC. providers of corporate booking and technology providers.  Providing scenarios of the tools. The study will be conducted potential funding models for The group comprises by an independent consultant, the transaction of airfares associations representing to be appointed jointly by and airline ancillary products agencies in Australia, Brazil, the group and Iata, who will via the travel agent channel Canada, India, New Zealand, undertake research and using the NDC standard. South Africa and the US.  Skywise bookings to open soon From page 1 Wayne Duvenage, who forms transfer of the Skywise shares and investor problems, part of the original Skywise from the Piosec (ex-1time causing delays to the start of management team, told TNW team) to Pak Africa is taking operations. there were still some hurdles longer than we had hoped. At Now, Skywise will operate when it came to the transfer of this stage the final transfers under ownership of Pak Africa. ownership. “The full ownership have not taken place.”  Helen Johnston selects the top specials from Travelinfo Founding Editors: John H Marsh (1914-1996) Leona Marsh (1923-2003)  RH Hotels & Management. Holiday Inn Express rates are from R950 in Umhlanga and R1 100 in Cape Town. EDITORIAL Rates are per room and include breakfast. Two kids under 16 stay free when sharing with parents at Holiday TRAVEL NEWS WEEKLY Group Editor: Natasha Schmidt [email protected] Deputy Editor: Bruce Dennill [email protected] Inn Express Durban. Offer is valid from January 5 to 19. www.etnw.co.za Features Editor: Michelle Colman [email protected]  Cruisemasters. Seven-night Western Med cruise with Costa Cruises on board the Costa Fascinosa. Rates are Published by Contributors: from US$324pp sharing (R3 807). Departs Savona on February 8, 15 and 22 and March 1, 8 and15. Offer Travel & Trade Publishing (Pty) Ltd Debbie Badham Max Marx Printed by Juka Printing (Pty) Ltd Hilka Birns Caro Malherbe includes seven nights’ accommodation in an inside cabin, all meals and on-board entertainment. Excludes Phone: (011) 327-4062 Dorine Reinstein port charges of R165pp. Kids cruise free (only pay port charges) with child-friendly ship amenities, kids’ menu Fax: (011) 327-4094 Photographer: Shannon Van Zyl and beverage card (to purchase). E-mail: [email protected] Production Editor: Ann Braun Web: www.nowmedia.co.za  Beachcomber Tours. Five-night packages at four-star Le Mauricia are from R10 730pp sharing. Package Publisher Address: Now Media Centre, Kate Nathan [email protected] includes return airfares ex-JNB to MRU, return airport-hotel transfers, accommodation with daily breakfast and 32 Fricker Road, Illovo Boulevard, dinner plus free land and non-motorised water sports. Offer is valid for travel Illovo, Johannesburg. Group Publisher PO Box 55251, Northlands, David Marsh [email protected] from February 1-28. 2116, South Africa. ADVERTISING  Thompsons Holidays. Amsterdam cruise from R14 437pps. Offer includes Sales: [email protected] seven nights on board Le Boat Countess, all meals, soft drinks, on-board Advertising Co-ordinator: entertainment and port charges. Offer expires July 6. Book and pay by Courtney Canham [email protected] April 19. Excludes flights. Price based on four people sharing. PRODUCTION  Design Head: Rufaro Travel. Seven-night/eight-day Cuba ‘Pearl of the Caribbean’ Dirk Voorneveld package from £865pp (R15 440) sharing. Package includes Specials Subscriptions accommodation, three meals daily, selected tours and airport Spot Circulation [email protected] transfers. Offer is valid until April 30.

2 n Wednesday January 7/14 2015 QUICK READ FOR DECISION-MAKERS TNW6858SD NEWS Delta ‘tailors travel to passengers’ needs’ ELTA will be splitting needs” the airline said in a around the world. On long- its aircraft into five statement. haul international flights, Ddifferent fare classes The new cabin offerings customers will receive extra from March 1. are as follows. seat recline, a meal service The three products for Main Cabin experience and complimentary pillow, international travellers to is provided throughout blanket and sleep kit. choose from will be: Delta Delta’s network. On long- Delta One, formerly One, which will replace haul international routes, BusinessElite, is offered BusinessElite; Delta main cabin passengers on long-haul international Comfort+, the re-branded will receive complimentary routes as well as between Economy Comfort; and beer, wine and spirits, a New York-JFK and Los Main Cabin. When meal service and a Delta Angeles or San Francisco. connecting on to selected sleep kit. Customers will get the domestic flights in the US, Basic Economy offers chance to be the first to customers can also opt Main Cabin service with board, take advantage of for First Class and Basic fewer flexibility options the fully flat-bed seats A night with the stars Economy. available. It is not available and enjoy several other With this move, the airline yet on international long- premium facilities. Air Mauritius recognised its top travel partners for is further maximising haul routes. Passengers First Class is offered on 2014 at a glamorous awards ceremony at the Munro the opportunity to take will have no advance seat short-haul international Boutique Hotel in Johannesburg. Beachcomber advantage of ancillary fees. selection and won’t be and domestic routes. Tours received several awards, including Top Groups In 2013, Delta reported able to make any changes Selected international Performer and Best Marketing Performer. Md Terry ancillary revenue of over to their itinerary. They flights may offer Business Munro (pictured here with Carla da Silva, former Air US$2,5 billion (R287bn). will, however, still receive Class service in lieu of Mauritius regional manager for Southern Africa and The range of products complimentary non- First Class. First Class Latin America) was recognised with the Ceo Award is the next step in alcoholic beverages and customers will receive for the third year running. Other top performers for Delta’s strategy to offer snacks on most flights. complimentary snacks 2014 included The Holiday Factory and World Leisure “differentiated experiences Delta Comfort+ offers and drinks and have the Holidays. Photo: Kate Nathan to customers seeking to an upgraded experience opportunity to be the first tailor travel to their specific on all two-cabin aircraft to board. 

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4 n Wednesday January 7/14 2015 QUICK READ FOR DECISION-MAKERS TNW6851SD NEWS AirHeads Travel Counsellors upgrades A snapshot of the week's airline news SW ups capacity to Zimbabwe, Zambia hotel review system AIR Namibia’s four weekly flights between Windhoek and Lusaka and Windhoek and Harare are now operated with an Airbus 319. RAVEL Counsellors has give agents a large number 22 000 reviews covering nearly The A319 features 96 economy- and 16 business-class seats. revealed developments of ‘recommended’ hotels 10 000 properties. With the This more than triples capacity on the routes, as Air Namibia was Tto its own in-house hotel per search, mainly based on addition of TrustYou, agents will previously operating the routes using 37-seater ERJ 135 aircraft. review system, helping agents previous bookings, and it was have access to feedback on to choose accommodation limited in terms of the volume an additional 400 000 hotels, based on sales and valued of hotels covered. We now integrated into the company’s Delta opens new lounge at Heathrow agent and traveller feedback. combine a number of factors Phenix system. DELTA has opened its exclusive Delta Arrivals Lounge at London The company now uses both to calculate an overall ranking South African gm, Mladen Heathrow Terminal 3. All the airline’s BusinessElite passengers internal reviews and feedback for each hotel. This includes Lukic, says: “Phenix allows and SkyMiles Diamond and Platinum Medallion members from online reputation sales for the most popular our agents to tailor-make travel arriving from the United States have complimentary access to management brand TrustYou, hotels booked by our agents for their customers whilst the new facility, which is the only one of its kind on the Delta which analyses, distils and over the past 12 months controlling the margin they network. scores accommodation reviews and brings in reliable and make, and we have seen them from over 250 websites content-rich third-party reviews, significantly increase their globally. presenting agents with three earnings as well as saving AF launches business traveller airfare, WiFi Group IT director, Paul overall property options.” them time and helping them to AIR France has introduced a new airfare designed specifically for Speakman, says: “Previously Travel Counsellors’ internal enhance the overall customer business travellers on its medium-haul routes. ‘Economy Flex’ the review system would review system includes over experience.”  tickets are on sale now for flights starting in April. The aim is to provide greater efficiency, speed and flexibility, the airline said. New features include: Lanseria introduces free WiFi  Tickets are modifiable and refundable at no extra charge.  Customers can take a flight earlier than initially scheduled, the LANSERIA International our passengers as we know can enjoy free high-speed same day, at no extra charge. Airport has launched an that staying connected is uncapped WiFi Internet.  Access to Skypriority services. MWeb WiFi zone offering for important to travellers,” said There are plans to introduce  Passengers are systematically allocated seats at the front passengers moving through Gavin Sayce, ceo of Lanseria a cap to the free WiFi, with of the economy cabin, allowing them priority boarding and the airport. International Airport. top-up packages available for disembarkation. “We are happy to launch For a limited period, a fee, at an undisclosed later the MWeb WiFi service for passengers at the airport date.   An item of hold baggage weighing no more than 23kg is allowed free of charge. One bag and an accessory (handbag, laptop, camera) not exceeding 12kg can be carried in the For the record cabin. And in a three-month trial phase during the European summer In the December 17/24 issue of TNW, in the article ‘Blue Train drops Durban, opens Kruger route’, it season, Air France and Orange will offer WiFi access on board was reported that “The Blue Train’s Durban route will be dropped in favour of a new route to the Kruger two Airbus A320s on the airline’s short- and medium-haul National Park”. Blue Train spokesperson, Themba Masheula, has since advised: “The good news is that networks. Orange is still to confirm prices and terms and The Blue Train will be available for chartering to not just Durban but also to the Kruger National Park and conditions. Passengers will be able to use their laptops, tablets in 2016 this [Kruger] route will be incorporated into The Blue Train’s normal schedule.” or smartphones to connect via WiFi to the Internet or a portal offering entertainment as well as practical information such as connecting flight times and services available at the destination.

Emirates ups flights to Maldives EMIRATES is now operating a third daily service to Malé, the capital of the Maldives. Flight EK656 departs Dubai International Airport at 02h10 and arrives in Malé at 07h15, adding seven more flights a week and increasing passenger and cargo capacity on the route by a third. Flight EK657 departs Malé International Airport at 08h45 and arrives in Dubai at 11h55. Save the date: Indaba 2015 INDABA 2015 will take place Africa and the rest of Africa. at the Inkosi Albert Luthuli “The industry is doing International Convention a great job. It invites, and Centre in Durban from May welcomes, millions of people 9-11 this year. to the continent year on year, Abour 1 200 tourism challenging perceptions and products from 25 African delivering an experience of countries were exhibited at a beautiful, capable and Indaba 2014, which was welcoming continent. We attended by more than 2 000 welcome exhibitors and buyers from around the world. buyers to Indaba 2015 and Tourism Minister, Derek invite them to celebrate our Hanekom, said he looked distinctively African culture of forward to spending time tourism entrepreneurship,” on the trade show floor, said Derek. exchanging information and For more information, ideas with exhibitors and visit www.indaba-southafrica. buyers from across South co.za.  TNW6849SD

6 n Wednesday January 7/14 2015 QUICK READ FOR DECISION-MAKERS Report Venue inspector Inside Holland America Line’s ms Rotterdam

Hilka Birns There are three restaurants, a disco, theatre, gym, spa, OLLAND America casino and two pool decks Line’s flagship, the ms (the main one under a HRotterdam, called at retractable roof). It has some Cape Town in mid-November of the largest cabins afloat, as part of its 85-day Africa many with outside verandas Explorer circumnavigation and floor-to-ceiling windows. of the continent from Some 39 ‘Lania’ cabins Rotterdam. have sliding glass doors The ship docked for four leading directly on to the days in Cape Town, longer Promenade Deck, while 23 than originally planned, spa cabins offer priority because it had cancelled spa bookings and health stops at Ghana, Gambia breakfasts among other and Senegal because of special amenities. A the Ebola outbreak in West children’s club caters for Africa. children aged five to 17. Entertainment includes live shows and music, movies, lectures, cooking classes, a digital workshop, sport and when they come back The main restaurant, La Fontaine, features floor-to-ceiling facilities and a health and windows and a sweeping double staircase. fitness programme. The to the cabin it’s either too ship also carries a US$2m windy or too dark to use the (R23m) art collection, balcony. I would suggest an including replicas of the Ocean View cabin instead. terracotta warriors from Xian. “Great food and choice of Another striking feature is a dining and plenty of activities three-deck atrium with clock to keep everyone occupied. tower. A superb product. You can Following their visit to the sell this with absolute ms Rotterdam, TNW asked confidence!” Terry Stone of Club Travel Cheryl said: “Very and Cheryl Smith of Travel upmarket, although the décor Vision, to give us their is a bit dated and needs “I love the wide impressions of the ship. to be spruced up. I think this ship is best for mature corridors and big What they found… clients who are looking for Seaview cabin with private balcony. picture windows Terry said: “Conservative, a more sedate, upmarket, everywhere. Definitely luxurious and of a high traditional and elegant standard. It generally attracts experience. a place to unwind the middle-age/45 upwards “The artwork is excellent! and relax.” market. The ambience is very So is the attention to detail, Cheryl Smith classy. I would sell this to the food and the service. well-heeled couples but not I love the wide corridors With a capacity for necessarily to honeymooners, and big picture windows 1 400 passengers and because of the age group. everywhere. Definitely a place 600 crew, ms Rotterdam is “Cruises are also pricier to unwind and relax. classed a mid-size cruise than what most South African “Not a very child-friendly ship. It has a traditional families would look at. A ship as the kids’ club is style but also offers modern lot of people always want small and only sufficient for amenities such as WiFi, balcony staterooms but I a few days’ entertainment. the Explorations Café with think it’s a waste because There are also too few The Retreat resort pool area, where passengers can lie on its library, coffee bar and guests spend most of their restaurants for a long recliners in shallow water while dining, relaxing or watching the Internet café. time elsewhere on the ship cruise.”  movie screen above a pizzeria and bar. Photos: Hilka Birns

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QUICK READ FOR busiest people Wednesday January 7/14 2015 n 7 What does the year hold?

2014 was a difficult year for the travel industry. Although the effects of last year’s most challenging developments are likely to continue to be felt throughout 2015, the industry can also expect some exciting new developments in the year ahead. Dorine Reinstein speaks to industry experts about the outlook for travel in 2015.

HE flailing economy will Pacific are beginning to record An expected tightening of South continue to play a definitive strong economic growth, South African fiscal policy, combined with Trole in travel in 2015, Africa has been static or in decline a GDP growth of between only 1% impacting on all sectors of the since 2013. “A lack of business and 2%, will most likely inhibit travel industry. and consumer confidence is the business travel growth. With this, Jim Weighell, the Global Business primary influence,” he says. Jim predicts a static local business Travel Association (GBTA) Southern Jim says the industry can expect environment and a more austere Africa’s director of operations, says to see this uncertainty affect all budget, which means that caution although the US, Europe and Asia sectors of travel in the year ahead. in spending will pervade 2015.

is not likely to filter through to a South African businesses seek Aviation wars drop in airfares, experts say. The opportunities outside SA. This will industry remains under pressure be the biggest opportunity for 2015, despite the reduction in oil prices. Jim says. “High economic growth If South Africa continues along the “The devaluation of the rand has rates in some African countries current path of low growth rates and had an enormous impact on input will present opportunities for SA investment downgrades, agents can costs as 48% of our costs – fuel, businesses to increase trade expect to see airlines competing for maintenance and aircraft – are outside of South Africa. We’ll see a market share in an industry where dollar based. With the fall from resurgence of travel into Africa where Jim Weighell, director of there is already over-capacity of R9,59 to the US dollar in October GDP is showing between 7% and 8% operations, Global Business Travel available seats in relation to actual last year to its current levels of in countries such as Mozambique, Association. travellers, says Iain Meaker, Comair’s around R11 to the dollar, the impact Tanzania, Ghana, Nigeria, Congo and commercial distribution executive. of this 15% rise in rand translation Zambia.” He says, within the aviation sector, has been quite severe,” Iain says. Alan Reid, procurement manager aviation industry growth is closely Meanwhile, the biggest for Africa of Puma Energy, agrees linked to overall GDP. “Both corporate opportunity for airlines in 2015 is and says regional expansion of and leisure sectors will seek to cut Big Data analytics, he says. “As carriers across Africa has had a costs wherever possible and likewise we are able to learn more about positive impact on corporate travel. try and absorb the increases felt our customers, their needs and For example, Ethiopian Airlines’ through high inflation rates and behaviours, we will be able to stake in Air Malawi and expansion of increased taxes by taking measures match them to product and service its routes; British Airways’ expansion such as cutting back on travel.” more effectively and provide greater into Zimbabwe, Namibia and Zambia; Rodger Foster, ceo and md of value. Harnessing data and making and the entrance of new low-cost Airlink, agrees and says 2015 effective use of it will undeniably carriers in Southern Africa. will most likely see industry be the big opportunity in the years However, regional travel will destabilisation brought about by ahead.” continue to be challenging as a overtrading and surplus competition result of a lack of liberalisation, in the regional and domestic market. and market access constraints He adds that South Africa might soon Into Africa for African airlines to destinations be bypassed as a hub, as Middle within their own continent remain a East carriers aggressively extend challenge, says Chris Zweigenthal, their networks to other points within Traffic to neighbouring states is ce of Aasa. “Airlines have growth Rodger Foster, ceo and md of Africa. expected to grow as infrastructure and development plans but in some Airlink. Also, the decrease in the oil price development accelerates and cases are not able to implement

8 n Wednesday January 7/14 2015 QUICK READ FOR DECISION-MAKERS REPORT INDUSTRY OUTLOOK

these strategies due to lack of route Paul East, Wings Travel as useful tools to assist with the rights.” Management coo for the UK, Europe latter.” Richard Bodin, fastjet chief and Americas, says the most He adds that 2014 events commercial officer, agrees and impactful development in 2014 underlined the importance of a says the challenge for 2015 will was the growth in social media fully managed travel programme, be dealing with governments that and mobile technology. In addition including a solid TMC partner with do everything to protect their flag to meeting traveller demands, the accurate traveller tracking and carriers. “There has been a lot of constant connection through social proactive planning around Travel talk during the past few months of media has enabled companies to Risk Management. airlines launching but very few have enhance duty of care and track actually taken to the skies. This is their travellers at every point in partly because these carriers are their journey as well as push vital More B&Bs & SMEs not appropriately funded and partly information to them in terms of due to the fact that governments alerts or SMS messaging. tend to protect their own airlines.” The challenge associated with Nedbank’s Howard Stephens Aviation safety in Africa will remain this shift towards increased mobile says an increasing number of a top priority for 2015. Chris says: travel technology is that it will corporates are turning to bed “States have a target of improving inherently transfer some control and breakfast facilities. He says, the Africa safety record by at least over to travellers, which may in whereas previously around only 5% Alan Reid, procurement manager 50% by the end of 2015, compared of corporates would book B&Bs, this for Africa, Puma Energy. turn influence compliance and with 2012 levels.” pose some challenges to effective has now increased to 30%. Richard agrees: “Many African programme management, says Paul. Peter Schoeman, sales and airlines have begun promoting the Mobile solutions are in high marketing director of City Lodge fact that they are reliable, on time, demand, agrees Dean Bibb, Sabre Hotel Group, hopes that the and safe. In 2015, there will be a vp for Eastern Europe, Middle SME market will show signs of widening gap between those airlines East and Africa. There is a strong recovery in 2015, along with that use international standards of interest in TripCase, Sabre’s bigger corporates, as last year was safety and security and reliability, mobile travel itinerary app, which particularly hard hit by the platinum and those that don’t.” travellers use to manage their strike, the metalworkers’ strike, journey and receive updates, public holidays and very weak alerts, maps and contextually economic activity. Tech talk relevant offers. “Understanding Overall, however, he believes how a traveller interacts with his the hospitality industry can be mobile device during his trip helps cautiously optimistic about 2015. There is a growing need for travel agents to build features In the hospitality sector, growth is streamlined GDS booking process and services that cater for their likely to recover slightly from a very for clients, with the opportunity to personal preferences.” Dean weak 2014, he says. “This should sell more than just an air ticket. foresees wearable devices gaining stimulate business travel in our core Peter Long, gm of Amadeus traction. He says, currently, apps market.” Southern Africa, says 2015 will see He adds, though: “Managing costs Chris Zweigenthal, ce of Aasa. are limited to mobile devices such corporates become more demanding as smartphones and tablets but will also continue to be critical for when it comes to the ability to the opportunity for wearable apps in those in the hospitality industry as efficiently process bookings online travel is significant. service providers such as Eskom and make changes on tickets. Travelport’s Marketplace (the beta- continue to raise their fees above The coming year will see a surge version was launched in November) inflation.” in demand for technology that can allows agents to browse and access assist corporates in owning real- products built by Travelport and time data that allows them to view partner developers. Value for money and approve costs before they are Agents can download products incurred, says Debbie Duncan, and services, much as customers sales and marketing manager of download apps at Apple iTunes Value for money will remain a key Traveluxion. “We are experiencing appstore; for example, Cabforce, the focus in the car-rental industry. greater interest in this technology. provider of taxi and airport transfer Martin Lydall, Europcar’s chief Travel managers will be expected to booking solutions to the travel commercial officer says, as such, pro-actively provide such solutions industry. demand for domestic travel within to the companies they service.” the corporate market is expected to Travelport recently acquired a increase. He believes consumers 49% share in the travel technology Duty of care will start exploring more affordable company, Locomote, which has domestic options and will be enticed developed a platform to empower by very competitive offers and Richard Bodin, chief commercial corporations in the seamless packages. “The base of domestic officer, Fastjet. This year will, without a doubt, see management of their travel, an even greater focus on duty of travellers continues to grow each authorisation and procurement care for corporates as a result of year,” he says. processes, including corporate airline incidents, political events and Lance Smith, Avis executive of traveller profile management, pre- the outbreak of Ebola in West Africa sales, doesn’t expect any major trip approvals and duty of care that dominated headlines in 2014. game changers in 2015 but adds capabilities, says George Harb, md “A significant number of that the Internet, and particularly of Travelport in Southern Africa. corporations have started spending mobile technology, will continue The sale of ancillaries through the a lot of money on tracking their to become more important for GDS will be an opportunity for travel travellers as a result of events that travellers. agents, says Peter. This eliminates took place in 2014. Corporates will the threat of airline merchandising undoubtedly continue to enhance when travellers have to visit airlines’ duty of care,” adds Howard MICE websites for additional services Stephens, travel procurement agents could arrange, he says. consultant to Nedbank. “You could lose that customer Paul East of Wings Travel The South African MICE industry is completely. Rather see it as an Management, says globally poised for growth in 2015. Adriaan opportunity to increase loyalty and 2014 was a mix of exciting new Liebetrau, ceo of SAACI, says the make an extra buck. Travel agents developments along with sobering introduction of FlySafair on some around the world are embracing reminders of the risks associated domestic routes is presenting ancillary services and are increasing with travel and the importance of consumers with additional flight Debbie Duncan, sales and their revenue with these extra safety. “Almost as though by design, options and more competitive prices. marketing manager, Traveluxion. products up for sale.” the new developments are serving To page 10

QUICK READ FOR busiest people Wednesday January 7/14 2015 n 9 REPORT INDUSTRY OUTLOOK

From page 9 The main challenge for 2015, says Adriaan, will be the tightening of government budgets when it comes to travel, meetings and conferences. He says the cuts come off the back of the rate cap that was already introduced by government last year, which stipulated that officials could not pay more than R1 300 a day for Gen Y travellers combine leisure with their business travel. accommodation, breakfast, dinner, parking the tourism levy and other 3 game changers in 2015 services. Wayne Hill, Emperors Palace gm 1. Gen Y new requirements changing the way Peter Schoeman, sales and of hotels and resort operations, The changing demographics of a lot of companies do business marketing director, City Lodge Hotel agrees and says the gap created by corporate travellers, from Gen X to and choose their suppliers. “This Group. travel budget cuts for government Millennials, will also increasingly will be one of the biggest game- officials is one of the reasons impact on corporate travel. Paul changers. 2015 is likely to be a why Peermont will increasingly be East says Gen Y are more likely rough ride,” he says. focusing on the domestic market. to incorporate leisure in their Safety considerations will continue corporate travel, which poses 3. Visas to be an important aspect of travel some complications. “Managing Meanwhile, corporate travel has procurement management in 2015, this integration of business and felt the negative impact of the expects Wayne. He advises travel leisure travel from a corporate tightening of visa requirements buyers to opt for one-stop-shop perspective comes with challenges across the continent coupled with options that will allow delegates to around supplier agreement the resulting retaliation by other stay in one location and enjoy the compliance, cost management and countries, says Alan Reid. The benefits of different entertainment reimbursement as well as liability expansion of terror groups in East choices and restaurants. and risk mitigation,” he says. and West Africa and the Ebola Internationally, Eastern Europe outbreak have also had a negative and Turkey will be attractive options 2. BBBEE effect on corporate travel into for the MICE market in 2015, says The new BEE requirements will also Africa. “I believe the full impact Wayne, adding that Russia remains bring about significant challenges. of these challenges will be felt in Howard Stephens, travel largely untapped in the super Howard Stephens foresees the 2015,” he says.  procurement consultant to Nedbank. premium category.

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10 n Wednesday January 7/14 2015 QUICK READ FOR DECISION-MAKERS COMMUNITYNEWS JOBS Births, deaths, marriages, promotions – we want to know! Please fax or e-mail TNW’s Bruce Dennill, at [email protected] or (011) 327 4094. Appointments Pick of the week brought to you by

Travel Consultant – Durban Head of Product- Cape Town Lee Botti & Associates Lee Botti & Associates Growing agency is looking for expert Luxury T/O seeks dynamic negotiator consultants with passion & creativity to with sound SA product knowledge.  Bruce Dennill has joined compile packages. Amadeus/Galileo essential. Minimum 5 years managerial A culinary adventure Salary R6 000 negotiable. experience essential! Salary R30 000. Now Media as deputy editor Email: [email protected] of Travel News Weekly. Email: [email protected] Natasha Schmidt has been Reservations Wholesale Consultant- CPT Professional Career Services In–House Manager – Pretoria appointed group editor Professional Career Services Dubai Tourism hosted a fun, interactive cooking class at Matric, Travel qualification. Amadeus for Now Media’s travel (preferred) or Galileo min 3–5 years’ Matric, Travel qualification. 15 years’ the PnP Good Food Studio in Bryanston to thank agents travel industry experience with 5 years division, overseeing the experience. Good airfares and GDS and suppliers for their support in 2014. Pictured here are knowledge. Salary: R12000 neg. management. Galileo. Quicktrav Salary: group’s various outbound (from left): Trisha Lalla (Comair Travel); Wendie White Plus commission. Negotiable based on experience. publications. Email: [email protected] Email: [email protected] (Dubai Tourism); and Zaheda Bhorat (Comair Travel). Photo: Natasha Schmidt Leisure manager – Cape Town Junior Consultant –  The Menlyn Quantex Recruitment Cape Town R480000 PA + Incentive Boutique Hotel Quantex Recruitment Exciting opportunity - leading business centre R6000 CTC. If you have at least 1 has announced with international footprint. Requirements: HR, the appointment Club Travel hosted Operations, Staff motivation and training. GDS year corporate experience, Galileo essential. Email: [email protected] or Amadeus and able to manage of new gm, A day at the races suppliers and partners domestic bookings, accommodation, Paul Duverge. at its annual Day at the Operations Manager - Pretoria transfers. Email: bridget@quantex. Paul obtained Races at the Kenilworth Equity Connections cc co.za distinctions in his City Grow and develop existing client spend, liaise Racecourse in Cape Town. directly with clients and Travel Managers and Client General Manager – Jnb North & Guilds qualification in Wally Gaynor, md of manage staff. Relevant experience essential. Equity Connections cc Operations and Services. Club Travel, congratulates Email: [email protected] Retain, grow and profitably manager He says: “There are always client portfolios. Includes financial Anja Meadon of Account Manager - Bloemfontein new developments in the management, budgeting, and forward Emirates Airline on Flight Centre Business Travel planning. Similar experience a must. SA citizen or permanent residence. market and within the local winning the prize for Email: [email protected] 2 years’ experience senior consulting role. hospitality sector. It is a very the best dressed guest Matric or relevant tertiary qualification. Galileo. demanding industry, yet is at Club Travel’s year-end Excellent multi-tasking skills. Target driven. Travel Expert - Pretoria extremely rewarding.” Paul Email: [email protected] Flight Centre function in Cape Town. 2 Years Sales / Customer service, trained at the City Lodge Photo: Liesl Venter Top Corporate Senior (High-Touch Matric or relevant degree/diploma, SA Group. Consultant) - Sandton citizen, international travel experience. Infusion Consulting Basic, lucrative commission structure,  Peermont TMC urgently seeks Senior Consultant medical aid and provident fund. Email: (immediately available) 8+ years’ experience. [email protected] Hotels Casinos GDS: Galileo / Complex RTWB / Fares & and Resorts Ticketing. CTC: R24KPM neg. Top Senior Consultant - Pretoria Email: [email protected] has announced Infusion Consulting Intermediate Consultant - Edenvale TMC seeks Top Senior Corporate the appointment Consultant 6+ years’ experience. GDS: of Clifford Wendy’s Travel Personnel Opportunity to work closer to home! This Galileo OR Amadeus / Complex RTWB Neo Ngakane stunning company requires your leisure / Fares & Ticketing. CTC: R24KPM neg. as gm for its experience and you will work Monday – Email: [email protected] Friday, No Saturdays! Galileo essential! newest property, Thaba Email: [email protected] Senior Leisure Consultant – CBD Moshate Hotel, Casino Cape Town and Convention Resort in Getting to know Namibia Senior Corporate Consultant – Club Travel Burgersfort, Limpopo (due CBD Cape Town Seeking dynamic, ambitious The Namibia Tourism Board recently hosted five agents on Club Travel entrepreneurial individual to join to open in March). Clifford Seeking individual to join team, commit leisure team. If you are customer an educational. The agents visited Etosha National Park to service excellence, foster mutually has an active role in the focused, committed, hardworking, with where, while checking in at the Namibia Wildlife Resort, beneficial relationships and achieve goals Tourism Forum in Limpopo and objectives. GDS experience (preferably a positive outlook, apply now! and Eastern Cape provinces, Okaukeujo, they climbed to the top of an observation Amadeus). Email: [email protected] Email: [email protected] is the deputy chairperson tower. Pictured (from left) are: Arno van der Merwe TNW7272 of Nelson Mandela Bay (American Express); Joseph Simataa (Air Namibia); Yolanda These adverts were selected from the vacancy Tourism and is a former Barkhuizen (XL Boland Travel); Zelda Strydom (Highline section of www.travelinfo.co.za director of Emfuleni Corridor Tours); and Pamela Mhlanga (Tourvest). Photo: Vanessa Stanley. For more details contact [email protected] Tourism in the Eastern Cape, as well as a member of the National Convention Bureau’s Marketing Maximise your power! Subcommittee with South African Tourism. Our quick guide to airline info Top jobs in Gauteng this week: gives you access to: Business Dev Mngr • For a FREE Opportunity knocks once! Top TO seeks indiv with strong corp travel sales b/g, A-Z guide to eTickets proven track record & good mngm skills. Sal to R45 000. • Commissions subscription Senior Consultants to TNW contact Need a change? Exp in corp/leisure with top GDS • Online pre-seating & check-in knowledge will land you a customer focused role. requirements Gladys on Sal to R25 000 neg. • Change fee collections [email protected] Accounting Positions Strong BSP & Quicktrav exp, coupled with relevant • Credit card authorisations and qualification will help you make a positive career much more... change! Sal neg. Sales Executive Log on to www.travelinfo.co.za To advertise on this page Love closing a deal? Hunter personality with great and click on TI Plus for more email interpersonal skills and proven record sought. info. To subscribe to this service, Sal neg. contact Loulla Georgiades Lote [email protected] Tel: Cornelia / Kim 011 452 0204 on 011 214 7317 or [email protected] email [email protected]. TNW7271 TNW7106

QUICK READ FOR busiest people Wednesday January 7/14 2015 n 11 TNW NEWS

New Moz airport to open up trade and tourism

Dorine Reinstein at 08h35. The return flight departs Nacala at 09h05, NACALA Airport in arriving in Maputo at 11h10, Mozambique, which officially allowing a smooth connection opened its doors in December, to Johannesburg. will boost travel to northern Mozambique’s President, parts of the country. Armando Guebuza, said the LAM is the first airline to new airport was a sign that offer services to the new “the development of Nacala airport, with a thrice-weekly is unstoppable”. He added service from Maputo. The flight that the airport would allow is operated with an Embraer the region to create a free Fly with a friend 145 carrying 50 passengers. trade zone in Nacala that The flight departs Maputo could potentially attract major Air Namibia has extended its companion special until March 31 due to popular demand. at 06h30 arriving in Nacala investment in the region.  The airline’s Johannesburg to Windhoek ‘Return Companion’ special sees the first passenger travel for R3 223, with their companion paying only R2 823 (taxes included). Pictured here: Joseph Simataa (Air Namibia sales executive) and Michell Fourie SAA Beijing route (Commercial Services South Africa: sales and marketing manager). Photo: Shannon Van Zyl. From page 1 Sean Hough, ceo of Pentravel. would enable the airline to Rod Rutter, coo XL Travel, finalise its annual financial agrees: “SAA has significant 2015 – make yourself relevant! statements for 2013/14 and restraints, such as the weak hold an AGM in February. rand and the fact that it needs Dorine Reinstein She warns that blinding be in a far stronger position The travel industry has to recapitalise its fleet if it optimism that things will stay to grow with the market, he expressed confidence in wants to compete with Middle O SURVIVE in 2015 the same is dangerous. “We explains. SAA’s turnaround strategy. Eastern carriers. It needs a TMCs will need to act and must prepare ourselves with Allan Lunz, md of BidTravel, “We are standing by SAA and capital injection, it needs to Tinnovate in the face of a a new business plan. The says 2015 is likely to be a supporting them through this streamline its customer care challenging economic climate, business model will change. challenging year, with declining difficult time. It’s important for operation and it needs to warn industry players. Every business cycle has a revenues and margins. He our industry and our economy have a partner that can give it The low GDP forecast will sell-by date. Every business agrees that giving in to the that SAA gets it right,” says global expansion.”  likely be felt throughout owner will be looking at ways pressure on TMCs to lower the travel industry, agrees to survive. Key disciplines will prices is simply unsustainable. Chris Zweigenthal, ce of be to first shed flab. He advises TMCs to rather Aasa. “We had forecast a “If it doesn’t add value, keep close to corporate moderate overall passenger eliminate it!” clients and offer spectacular growth of between 1% and Claude Vankeirsbilck, chief customer service and value. brought to you by eTNW and TRAVELINFO 2% during last year and a sales and marketing officer Sean Hough, ceo of slight improvement to 2,2% of Tourvest Travel Services, Pentravel, says innovation during 2015 but this slow says the travel management and entrepreneurship are economic growth will possibly industry has had to seriously just two examples of good influence corporate customers review its cost structures management. “For a business to find ways of curbing costs in an environment where to thrive in tough times, it for corporate travel. In the customers are increasingly needs to have a passion Airbnb is catching on case of private leisure travel, placing pressures on service and a purpose and needs to reduced amounts of available fee reductions. believe it can be successful. Community accommodation platform Airbnb provides an disposable income could Claude warns, however, that The only companies that interesting alternative to hotels and other traditional places to result in a reduction of leisure the trade should not start will survive are those with a stay while travelling. travel.” to trade recklessly. “I am far strong culture – companies Last year saw the retail more concerned with the way that make people’s lives Are your clients interested in booking Airbnb? travel industry in South the industry is – as Vanya better, not just the customers’ Africa tighten its belt, focus puts it – ‘fighting for market but also their own people.” 61% on cost and fight for market share’, where so-called TMCs However, according to Rod share in a stagnant market, are bordering on reckless Rutter, coo of XL Travel, it says Sure Travel ceo, Vanya trading by offering fees that is unlikely that South Africa No Lessing. “The game changers are clearly unsustainable is heading for a recession. 39% for 2015 will be dictated by and conducting questionable He says the definition of a the economy, which is not business practice to prop up recession is two consecutive Yes showing any signs of recovery their income.” negative quarters, which very soon. Questions are Claude says innovative hasn’t been the case yet for being asked as to whether we technology solutions and South Africa. “We’ll ride this will go into a recession. The raising the ‘service bar’ will out,” he predicts, arguing socio-political environment is be important tools for the that retail prices have started depressing, to say the least.” industry and will play a pivotal going up, which is a good Vanya says TMCs will need role in ensuring sustainability indicator that the economy is eTravel is the ITC market leader in South Africa and assists senior Travel an entrepreneurial spirit to during the tough economic recovering. Consultants and Travel business owners to realise their dreams. If you have innovate and create new environment. That way, when For more on what to expect ever dreamt of owning your own travel business or would like to cut costs opportunities in South Africa. the cycle turns, TMCs will this year, see page 8.  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 200 Independent Travel Companies and specialise in making your travel business a success by offering To the point the best commissions, overrides & a comprehensive support structure. If you have a client base, 5 years travel consultant experience or already own your From February 1, The Netherlands Honorary Consulate in Durban will no longer handle applications for own business but want to make more, then contact Dutch passports and Schengen visas. All visa applications will be processed by VFS Global. Cape Town us! You’ll be amazed at how easy it is! applications are now also processed by VFS. Gauteng residents should still apply via The Netherlands Contact Tammy on 0861eTrave1 or [email protected] Embassy in Pretoria. For the remainder of January, applicants using the consulate in Durban should book their appointments online at www.dutchembassy.co.za before submitting applications. TNW7136

12 n Wednesday January 7/14 2015 QUICK READ FOR DECISION-MAKERS