September 23 2015 I No. 2368 SOUTHERN AFRICA’S TRAVEL NEWS WEEKLY

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NEWS NEWS FEATURE JOBURG- THE BLUE TRAIN SAX launches scheduled flights SI to develop marketing strategy Exotic and affordable

INSIDE Page 2 Page 4 Page 12 Comair to reinvent its offering

Dorine Reinstein in discussions with international airlines to host their passengers in OMAIR plans to reinvent its the Slow Lounge at OR Tambo. product offering, following a Comair cited increased C17% drop in profits for the year competition and unsustainably low ending June 30, 2015. airfares as the reasons for the The airline will shift its focus to sharp drop in profits for 2015. the promotion of ancillary products, The airline is not expecting any as the airline “won’t be seeing growth for the time being as a result any growth from the sale of ticket of additional capacity in the market. fares”, Kirsten King, Comair’s “To retain our market share, we finance director, told TNW. Although need to keep our fares suppressed. Comair’s ancillary offering is However, we’ll continue with our currently still quite small and only fleet replacement strategy, which is contributes about 4% to the important in terms of fuel efficiency. airline’s revenue, Kirsten says this We can save up to about 15% in Proudly South African segment contributed 11% to the consumption. We’re also focusing airline’s profit. on keeping passengers happy In celebration of its 14th birthday, kulula.com surprised customers with on-time performance, tight with hampers filled with original South African products. Shaun Pozyn, schedules and shorter turnaround kulula.com head of marketing, described the airline as the “Nik Naks, “‘Branded’ fares are also times,” Kirsten said. Ouma Rusks and Mrs Balls of flying”. “We are as entrenched as other home-grown brands,” he said. Pictured, celebrating a truly South on the cards.” She added that that there would eventually be a “correction” in the African birthday, are (from left): kulula.com’s marketing manager market when it came to airfares, Bridgette Ramuluvhana; Shaun; and reservations team leader – The airline is looking at launching but said it was difficult to predict International, Liesl-Mari Mcilwraith. Photo: Shannon Van Zyl services such as priority boarding when that would happen. “Fares and extra leg-room. ‘Branded’ fares are currently 15% below what are also on the cards. Through the they should be, so passengers branded fares, clients will be able should expect an increase in fares There’s a new airline to buy a basic ticket, excluding of between 10% and 15%,” said luggage and other services. “Clients Kirsten. Durban routes were doing coming to SA… will also be able to buy combination “reasonably” well, but JNB-CPT, JNB- packages of a ticket with, for PLZ, CPT-PLZ and HLA-CPT were all Dorine Reinstein not been released yet, Derek Shanks, example, extra leg-room and added running at a loss, she said. commercial director of Mega Maldives flexibility. This new product will “You can incur losses for as long MEGA Maldives Airlines plans Airlines, told TNW it would be deploying make the fare offering much more as you can afford it. Comair is fairly to introduce a twice-weekly flight a Boeing 757 on the route, with variable,” Kirsten said. well positioned, so we can withstand between Malé and Johannesburg departures from Johannesburg on Comair’s lounges will also be it for some time but obviously not from November. The airline will also Saturdays and Tuesdays. upgraded. The airline has already forever. For now, we’re concentrating offer South African travellers good “We are very keen to develop the expanded its Cape Town Slow on retaining market share by looking connections to Thailand and India. route from Johannesburg to Maldives Lounge, with the ORT Johannesburg at efficiencies and introducing Although exact details of the as well as offer good connections lounge to follow suit. Comair is also ancillary products.”  timetable and GDS availability have To page 16

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Top web stories SAX launches flights  Task team to determine fate of dual citizens  ‘No need to panic’, says SA govt over possible terror attack to Mahikeng  ‘No reason to review dual citizenship’ – govt  TNW pick: Domestic airfares – expect a rollercoaster ride Darise Foster “For now, SAX is the only was part of the provincial airline to fly out of the ,” government’s broader plan to  What do luxury travellers want? CHEDULED flights North West province acting reposition the province with have recommenced head of communications, special focus on Mahikeng Sat Mahikeng Airport Brian Setswambung, told (formerly Mafikeng) as the in North West province. SA TNW. “We have not had any capital city. Express will operate flights other airlines communicate On September 7, SAX from Mahikeng to OR Tambo their interest in flying to the launched its Mahikeng- and airport as yet.” Johannesburg-Pilanesberg Pilanesberg Airport. Speaking at the recent flights, which operate twice Fares range from R400 for official launch of the flight daily on Mondays, Wednesdays Mahikeng to Pilanesberg and schedule at the airport, and Fridays using a 50-seat from R600 for Mahikeng to North West Premier, Supra Canadair Regional Jet 200. Johannesburg. Mahumapelo, said the move See schedules below.  Morning departures Monday SA1121 JNB-MBD 07h10-07h55

TNW6005SD SA1121 MBD-NTY 08h35-09h10 SA1121 NTY-JNB 09h50-10h30 Rubes® By Leigh Rubin Wednesday and Friday SA1123 JNB-MBD 07h10-07h55 SA1123 MBD-NTY 08h20-08h55 SA1123 NTY-JNB 09h20-10h00 Afternoon departures Monday, Wednesday and Friday SA1125 JNB-NTY 16h30-17h10 SA1125 NTY-MBD 17h50-18h25 SA1125 MBD-JNB 19h05-19h50

Dodgy dealings in duty-free

Dorine Reinstein as alcohol and tobacco. no vendor has the right to Financial secretary to the pocket VAT, says Janine. IN THE UK, travellers are UK Treasury, David Gauke, The vendor’s only role is refusing to show their said: “The VAT relief at to issue a tax invoice to boarding passes at airport is intended to travellers, who then produce shops, after UK-based reduce prices for travellers, this at the time of departure newspaper The Independent not as a windfall gain together with the goods to revealed that many stores for shops. While many qualify for a refund. “There were asking passengers retailers do pass this is no refund payment by or to present their boarding saving on to customers it is to vendors at all,” she says. passes when making a disappointing that some are Janine adds that none purchase so they could use choosing not to. We urge all of the airport retailers in the information to claim airside retailers to use this custom-controlled areas the 20% VAT relief to boost relief for the benefit of their at Departures levy VAT their own coffers instead of customers.” as all goods are destined Founding Editors: passing on the savings to This would not be possible for export. “Travellers are John H Marsh (1914-1996) Leona Marsh (1923-2003) customers. in South African airports, entitled to zero-rated VAT EDITORIAL The UK Treasury has says spokesperson for at airports in customs-

TRAVEL NEWS WEEKLY Group Editor: Natasha Schmidt [email protected] intervened and confirmed SARS, Janine Mqulwana. controlled areas, as they www.etnw.co.za Features Editor: Debbie Badham that it is not a legal South African regulatory are on their way out of the Contributors: requirement for passengers frameworks on VAT refund country. Therefore, the VAT Published by Tessa Reed Hilka Birns to show boarding cards works differently. By law, all exemption benefits are Travel & Trade Publishing (Pty) Ltd Max Marx Dorine Reinstein Printed by Juka Printing (Pty) Ltd when buying goods, other Carina Borralho Darise Foster VAT collected by vendors directly passed on to the Phone: (011) 327-4062 Photographer: Shannon Van Zyl than on duty-free items such is paid over to SARS and traveller.”  Fax: (011) 327-4094 Production Editor: Ann Braun E-mail: [email protected] Web: www.nowmedia.co.za PUBLISHER Address: Now Media Centre, Kate Nathan [email protected] 32 Fricker Road, Illovo Boulevard, GROUP PUBLISHER Illovo, Johannesburg. Phakalane Airways stops scheduled flights David Marsh [email protected] PO Box 55251, Northlands, 2116, South Africa. ADVERTISING Dorine Reinstein Phakalane Airways to run but only as a non-scheduled Sales: [email protected] scheduled inter-provincial charter. Advertising Co-ordinator: PHAKALANE Airways has flights between Kimberley, Allan told TNW that the Anthea Lucas [email protected] discontinued scheduled flights Upington and Springbok and Phakalane Airways team PRODUCTION in the Northern Cape, just 18 unscheduled flights to De Aar, would now concentrate on Design Head: months after the service was Calvinia, Kuruman and Sishen. a flight training school they Dirk Voorneveld launched. Ceo of Phakalane Airways, had recently opened to “train SUBSCRIPTIONS In January 2014, the Allan Roebuck, told TNW the historically disadvantaged Circulation [email protected] Northern Cape provincial airline still offers flights on children in the Northern government appointed the Kimberley-Upington route Cape”. 

2 n Wednesday September 23 2015 QUICK READ FOR DECISION-MAKERS TNW7243SD NEWS PillowTalk Advertorial A brief look at this week’s hotel news Sun International wins Blue Train bid Durban hotel undergoes R100m refurb THE Garden Court Marine Parade in Durban has been given a Daniella Di Gaspero Tourism, Thulani Nzima; similar to the one Transnet R110 million refurbishment. The renovations include touch-ups in Graeme Stephens, ce of Sun is trying to target,” said the hotel’s public areas, reception, conference rooms, guest toilets, RANSNET has chosen International; and Siyabonga Graeme. “Approximately 60% Sun International as the Gama, group ce of Transnet, of our room nights are sold lifts and lift foyers and corridors. The pool area on the 30th floor Twinning bidder to develop on September 8 at Pretoria to international guests and has sweeping views of the Durban beachfront, harbour and city, and and implement a marketing Station. we have a strong presence has been revamped with new furniture, including a mobile bar that strategy for The Blue Train that The partnership hinted that in the core, traditional source is ideal for events. New rooms have been added, increasing the could see Transnet building there could be alignment of markets for tourism for SA and offering from 346 rooms to 352 rooms. The hotel offers an array of new state-of-the-art train sets accommodation and train a presence in the emerging features, including conferencing and events venues, free high-speed and developing new routes. packages but it is only in markets.” WiFi, a new open-air gym, hotel shuttle, bicycle rental and self- In April, Transnet invited the preliminary phase. “We “If you can have a luxury bidders to submit proposals envision more trains and new product like The Blue Train service business facilities. The upgraded conference facilities are to partner in developing and routes, however we are not in and luxury accommodation able to accommodate over 500 delegates in various layouts. piloting a marketing strategy a position to say how much such as the range of Sun for The Blue Train for an initial is going to be spent. At this International’s products, Hilton partners with Uber period of up to 18 months. stage, we have agreed to work our competitiveness in the HILTON Worldwide has partnered with Uber to offer expanded The partnership agreement together,” Siyabonga said. international space is going to digital features set to simplify and streamline the travel experience was signed by ceo of SA “Our tourism market is very be better,” said Thulani.  for Hilton guests. Through the partnership, Hilton guests around the world can set Uber ‘ride reminders’, automated notifications to request Uber rides to and from the hotel. Additionally, the Namibia flyafrica launches flights to Lanseria partnership is creating added benefits for Hilton HHonors members. NAMIBIA flyafrica has launched the airline said in a statement. of Namibia flyafrica, Clifford Through the HHonors app, members can book a stay, check in, operations between Namibia To avoid disruption to Strydom. select their room, pre-order amenities and use their smartphone to and Johannesburg. The airline passengers, Namibia flyafrica Namibia flyafrica is initially enter their hotel room with their digital key. “By partnering with Uber was grounded earlier this is offering a bus transfer operating three weekly we are helping travellers explore destinations as if they are locals,” month following a ruling by the service from Sandton. flights between Windhoek said Rich DiStefano, senior director of mobile products at Hilton Namibian High Court that the Passengers will be able to and Lanseria on Mondays, Worldwide. carrier could not operate to board a bus at the Sandton Wednesdays and Fridays, with or from OR Tambo (see TNW Gautrain station to Lanseria. the airline committing to daily September 16). “The change of airport in flights before November. Paradis reopens after major upgrade The airline has moved Johannesburg to Lanseria Flights depart Lanseria at PARADIS Hotel & Golf Club in Mauritius has reopened after two operations from OR Tambo allows us to further reduce 08h30 and arrive in Windhoek months of major enhancements. The entrance wall incorporates International Airport to our costs, making our fares at 10h25. Return flights local volcanic rock with a modern twist and a newly painted lobby. Lanseria International Airport, more than 80% less than our depart Windhoek at 10h55 The central feature of the hotel, the bar, has also received an “allowing flyafrica to further competitors with no disruption and arrive back at Lanseria update, with bright and clear tones, modern furniture and paintings. reduce its fares by over R500”, to our passengers,” says ceo at 12h50.  Paradis’ leisure and recreational facilities have received an upgrade, including the renovation of the boathouse. A yoga platform and a gazebo for weddings and special dinners have been set up facing Etihad introduces new baggage policy the western mountains. The facilities at the sports centre have also EITHAD Airways has buying an additional 23kg from 30kg to two pieces at been improved. introduced a new baggage piece of baggage has been 23kg per bag. In premium policy in conjunction with reduced by up to 90%, with cabins, the allowance has Extraordinary expands its portfolio the launch of its new ‘Fare a further reduction of up to been increased from EXTRAORDINARY, a Destination Management Company in Southern Choices’ tariff structure. 30% if pre-purchased directly 40/50kg to two pieces at Africa, has welcomed a new product into its portfolio: Khaya Customers are now entitled with Etihad Airways up to 24 32kg per bag. On piece Ndlovu Manor House. The property, which is near Hoedspruit in to one, two or three bags, hours before travel. concept routes Etihad Gold the Blue Canyon Conservancy, Limpopo, offers colonial-styled depending on their fare The new structure means and Platinum members will choice, route, and Etihad increased allowance for receive one extra piece of accommodation comprising seven rooms – a Honeymoon Suite, Guest membership status. Economy Value and Economy baggage at 32kg, compared Hardwood Suites and Garden Suites. Activities include hot-air As part of the policy Freedom guests from 30kg with 15kg and 20kg ballooning and elephant-back rides. Cindy Sheedy Walker, ceo, change, the cost of excess to two pieces at 23kg each – respectively previously, and sales and marketing at Extraordinary said: “We are very excited to baggage has been cut on a total of 46kg. The economy Etihad Silver members now have Khaya Ndlovu Manor House involved and look forward to a the majority of fares. On class allowance has been have a minimum of two bags long and beneficial relationship.” some routes the cost of increased for all fare choices of 23kg. 

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4 n Wednesday September 23 2015 QUICK READ FOR DECISION-MAKERS Advertorial

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QUICK READ FOR BUSIEST PEOPLE Wednesday September 23 2015 n 5 NEWS New Protea Hotel to open in Zambia ROTEA Hotels will open Hotels, said: “This new the Zambian economy. Our the Protea Hotel Ndola, hotel development under commitment to Protea Hotel Popposite the Levy the Protea Hotels brand Ndola is an indication of Mwanawasa Stadium, in the reinforces our focus on this confidence. The Protea third quarter of 2016. continuing to grow the Hotels brand is highly Construction has already footprint of Protea Hotels respected in Zambia and begun and the hotel will and Marriott International is synonymous with a high- offer 80 guest rooms and in strategic growth areas quality and trusted stay three conference rooms such as Zambia throughout experience, combined with that can host up to 100 Africa.” warm and genuine service delegates. Mark O’Donnell, Chairman to ensure every guest feels Mark Satterfield, CEO of Union Gold, which owns important and appreciated.” of Marriott International, Protea Hotels in Zambia, The new hotel will It’s wine o’clock! Middle East & Africa and said: “Union Gold Zambia increase Protea Hotels’ Marriott International’s has every confidence in presence in Zambia to Soweto was a buzz of activity on the first weekend of Business Leader for Protea the long-term growth of eight hotels.  September as visitors from around South Africa came together to take part in the Soweto Wine and Lifestyle Festival. With exhibitors from across the wine, travel Air Namibia introduces new fare structure and lifestyle industries, the show was an event to be remembered. At the invitation of the Gauteng Tourism AIR Namibia has made booking classes that travel throughout the year. Authority, Tourism Minister, Derek Hanekom, wined changes to its fare are more competitive; Additionally, the booking and dined with members of the trade at the Soweto structure for flights ‘one-way’ fares on all classes O, G and V will Hotel and Conference Centre on the Saturday evening. between Southern Africa booking classes; changes move from the previous The evening of networking provided professionals and Europe, giving in fare conditions to SAVER family to a newly with a great platform to discuss new ways in which customers “flexible improve flexibility; and flat created promotional family to promote the vibrant township. Derek is seen here combinations to allow them seasonality in the following denoted as PROMO. networking with Zandile Dhlamini, owner of Aahaah to design their travelling as RBDs: E, W, T, U, L, K, The new fare structure Shuttles & Tours. Photo: Debbie Badham desired”. Q, H, M, and P, meaning is effective for travel from Changes include new the fare can be sold for September 14. 

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6 n Wednesday September 23 2015 QUICK READ FOR DECISION-MAKERS REPORT CONFERENCING

Ekurhuleni, formerly Gauteng’s East Rand, offers several interesting excursions and team-building activities that can be combined with conferencing to give clients a unique experience. Max Marx reports. 3 unique add-on activities in Ekurhuleni 1. SAA Museum replicas of the Airbus A300 conference rooms, the largest five-star, 68-room Summer multi-purpose centre. The South African Airways and Boeing 747 cockpits. catering for 80 delegates and Place Boutique Hotel. It Conference facilities in the Museum at Rand Airport in Tours of the museum can a smaller venue catering for features four conference precinct include two meeting Germiston is a great place be tailor made, including 36 delegates, both cinema- rooms, the largest catering for rooms catering for 20 and to start a conference, with a guided tour of the Rand style. 240 delegates cinema-style, 100 delegates plus several a host of opportunities for Airport Terminal (an art deco with free WiFi. rooms ideal for workshops of team-building activities and building in the shape of an 2. Chris Hani Memorial 30 delegates. The precinct excursions. aircraft) and a visit to the Another interesting excursion 3. OR Tambo Cultural also caters for private The museum preserves Train Museum, 5km away. in Germiston is a visit to Precinct functions and team building. the colourful history of There are two conference the Chris Hani Memorial The OR Tambo Cultural Guided tours of the precinct South African aviation and venues available at Rand near Chris Hani’s grave in Precinct in Wattville near and nearby Oliver & Adelaide general civil aviation and has Airport. The smallest venue South Park Cemetery. It was Benoni provides a detailed Tambo Memorial are offered a display hall with a large seats 45 delegates theatre- declared a heritage site by look at the life of ANC by Ekurhuleni Tourism. collection of memorabilia, style and the largest, 140 President Jacob Zuma in stalwart, Oliver Tambo. It’s For those seeking larger uniforms, photographs and delegates theatre-style. The April. Visitors can take a a must-visit destination conferencing options nearby, aircraft models on display. Harvard Café caters for both tour of the memorial on the for anyone attending a the three-star Lakes Hotel Aircraft Park forms part of the conferences and private ‘Walk of Remembrance’, conference in the area. & Conference Centre on the museum and has 10 aircraft meetings. Full- and half-day which includes the Wall of Built on the banks of the banks of Benoni’s Swan Lake on display, some that were conference packages are Remembrance, built in honour Leeupan wetland, the precinct offers 14 conference rooms, operational in the 1940s. available. of those who lost their lives has a narrative centre that the largest accommodating A highlight is the Boeing In walking distance of in South Africa’s struggle for features both permanent and 1 500 delegates cinema- 747 tour where visitors Rand Airport is the four-star liberation. Agents can contact temporary exhibitions on loan style. It also has a marquee are shown flight recorders, Lions Rest Guest House & the Ekurhuleni Department from the Apartheid Museum. that seats 1 800 delegates emergency escape slide Conference Centre. It offers of Sports, Recreation, Arts It is one of the few ‘green’ cinema-style. The hotel operations and other behind- 12 en-suite bedrooms – with and Culture to arrange guided museums in the world and features 150 rooms, three the-scenes info. There are WiFi – overlooking lush tours. has an outdoor amphitheatre, restaurants, a business also two non-operational flight grounds and the heated A 10-minute drive from the an environmental library, centre, and bar and patio simulators that are identical swimming pool. There are two Chris Hani Memorial is the bird-viewing deck and overlooking the lake. 

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QUICK READ FOR BUSIEST PEOPLE Wednesday September 23 2015 n 7 AirHeads NEWS A snapshot of the week's airline news

Emirates touches down in Orlando EMIRATES has launched a daily non-stop flight service between Crystal opens bookings for Dubai and Orlando as from September 1. Flight EK219 departs Dubai at 03h50 and arrives in Orlando at 11h40, a flying time of luxury yacht cruises 15 hours and 50 minutes. Return flight EK220 departs Orlando International Airport Terminal B at 14h20 and arrives at Dubai OOKINGS for Crystal Seychelles, with visits to November) – Sailing from International Terminal 3 at 12h30 next day, with a flying time of Cruises’ newly launched neighbouring islands. Limassol, Cyprus; and 14 hours and 10 minutes. The flights are operated by a 266-seat BCrystal Esprit yacht In 2016 through the Aqaba, Jordan; calling in Boeing 777-200 LR aircraft, with eight private First Class suites, 42 cruise are now open, with a beginning of 2018, travellers Haifa, Eilat and Ashdod, range of new itineraries and will visit: Israel. business-class lie-flat beds and 216 economy-class seats. fares for the 2016-2018  Indian Ocean (January-  Mediterranean (April- period. March) – Sailing round-trip November) – Sailing various Etihad opens premium lounge in Abu Dhabi Seven-day itineraries, from Mahé, Seychelles, routes from Italy, Croatia, ETIHAD Airways has opened its newly refurbished premium-class starting from US$3 920 with optional two- and four- and Greece. lounge at Abu Dhabi Airport’s Terminal 1. The lounge is open to (R52 615) per person, night inclusive Dubai land “One of the most compelling Etihad first- and business-class guests, qualifying Platinum Etihad offer intimate and exclusive package. elements that Crystal Esprit Guest members and the equivalent tier loyalty programme members experiences aboard the  Cosmopolitan Emirates offers our guests is itineraries 62-guest yacht. Crystal (December) – Sailing round- filled with destinations they’ve of Etihad partner airlines flying from Abu Dhabi. The lounge can seat Esprit will take guests to the trip from Dubai, calling on not been able to visit on a 134 guests, is open 24 hours a day and offers a range of facilities. Seychelles, Adriatic Coast, ports such as Muscat and large cruise ship before,” says Oman, Abu Dhabi, and Dubai. Khasab, Oman; Abu Dhabi George Argyropoulos, ceo of The yacht’s first guests and Sir Bani Yas Island, Cruises International, which will sail on December 23 UAE; and Doha, Qatar. represents Crystal Cruises in on a round-trip from Mahé,  Holy Land (March/April/ the South African market.  New airline postpones launch

Darise Foster The airline’s administration The delay would also push manager, Melody Sanhanga, back the launch of the Harare- KZN IS THE PLACE TO BE ZIMBABWEAN carrier, told TNW that the application Victoria Falls-Cape Town route, Rainbow Airlines, which was for the FOP has been Melody said. “It was originally set to launch commercial concluded “but there was a planned for two months down flights in late August, has slight change in procedure the line. We have permission postponed its launch date with regard to the application to fly the route; it was just due to issues relating to the processes relating to airport a matter of getting Harare- this month! airline’s obtaining a Foreign security, procurement and Johannesburg off the ground.” In celebration of Tourism Month, KZN has a jam-packed calendar Operator’s Permit from the aircraft agreements”. “We do Rainbow Airlines will be of events for locals to enjoy throughout September. These exciting South African Department of not have a new launch date as the fifth airline to fly between events include: Transport. The airline plans to yet as we are waiting to hear Harare and Johannesburg, fly daily between Harare and back from the Department,” following BA Comair, SAA, • BP Durban Day with ERC on September 6 Johannesburg. she said. flyafrica and Air Zimbabwe.  • The Reed Dance at Enyokeni Royal Household, KwaNongoma • Mpati Mountain Race on September 12 • The Sunday Tribune Jeep Hill to Hill on September 12 and September 13 Two new resorts open in Mauritius • The Dezzi Invitational from September 6 to September 12 on the South Coast RADISSON Blu has opened a fully equipped kitchen. ocean. All rooms feature two beach resorts in Activities at the resort floor-to-ceiling windows with • The BMW Polo Series at Shongweni on September 13 Mauritius: the Radisson include snorkelling, kayaking, large sliding doors to a small • Brian McKnight Live concert on September 16 Blu Azuri Resort & Spa and windsurfing, pedal boats, terrace or a Juliet balcony. the Radisson Blu Poste a glass-bottom boat, four Activities include beach • The Witness Hilton Arts Festival from September 17 to Lafayette Resort & Spa on tennis courts and beach volleyball, beach badminton, September 20 the north-eastern coast of volleyball. Facilities include bocce ball, darts, snorkelling, • The Sani Dragon Challenge on September 25 and September 26 the island. a fitness centre; meeting kayaking, glass-bottom boat The Radisson Blu centres; a spa; an all-day trips and pedal boats. • Strawberry Picking Family Day at Cappeny Estates near Ballito on September 26 Azuri Resort & Spa dining outlet, Le Comptoir; “These openings mark comprises 160 rooms, and L’Azuli à la carte an important milestone for • The Township to Township Marathon on September 27 suites, townhouses and restaurant. Radisson Blu as we continue There is so much to do in KZN this month, so get out, treat yourself, penthouses which feature Radisson Blu Poste to expand our global and re-discover KZN where exceptional experiences are just a floor-to-ceiling windows with Lafayette Resort & Spa is presence across Africa and ‘Sho’t Left’ away. views of the gardens or the an adults-only resort. The now the Indian Ocean,” said ocean. The townhouses minimalist-styled guest Marc Descrozaille, area vp and penthouses provide a rooms provide views of the for Sub-Saharan Africa for living and dining area with garden, mountains or the The Rezidor Hotel Group. 

Gobbins coastal walk opens in Ireland AGENTS can now add a the world-famous Causeway the journey begins at a visitor coastal walk experience to Coastal Route and close to the centre, from where walkers itineraries for travellers visiting famous Blackhead lighthouse. are transferred to the cliff path Northern Ireland’s famous The restored Edwardian by minibus. Tours run from Causeway Coastal Route. attraction has tubular and 10h00 to 15h00 daily and are The Gobbins coastal walk suspension bridges, a suitable for people of normal has opened the doors to a staircase, caves and tunnels fitness levels. Those not modern cliff path for tourists carved through the County wishing to walk can enjoy the who wish to experience Antrim basalt coastline. The views from the visitor centre the coast up close. Only a path is in the vicinity of filming and learn about The Gobbins 40-minute drive from Belfast, locations for the hit TV show, through an exhibition. There the path begins in a narrow Game of Thrones. is also a coffee shop and peninsula at the start of With access by guided tour, gift shop.  TNW7456

8 n Wednesday September 23 2015 QUICK READ FOR DECISION-MAKERS NEWS 5 top Midlands meeting spots The KZN Midlands is one of South Africa’s most picturesque areas and home to more than 200 arts and crafts studios and country hotels. Liesl Venter rounds up some top meeting spots.

Nottingham Road Hotel Redlands Hotel Rawdons Hotel A VISIT to the Midlands Fondly known as the ‘Notties Situated in the northern Meander is not complete Hotel’, it is renowned for With an on-site brewery Pye-Eyed Possum Pilsner suburb of Wembley, the without a stop at this quaint its hospitable atmosphere. that is considered the can be enjoyed. Meetings Redlands Hotel has a hotel. It was established in The conference venue at country’s most successful and conferencing take tranquil atmosphere. While 1854 and its unique charm the Nottingham Road Hotel microbrewery, Rawdons on a unique twist at this it is only five minutes and attraction have answered can accommodate 60 Hotel is a must for any venue as delegates are from the Pietermaritzburg the needs of many travellers delegates, depending on the visitor to the Midlands. able to not only make CBD, it has no feel of the seeking a hotel steeped seating style. It also has two Nestled in the heart of the but also label their own city to it and is ideal for in history, beauty and breakaway rooms for smaller Midlands, it is a charming beer. The hotel has delegates who don’t want reputation, say the owners. meetings. country estate with a conference facilities that to head out into the country lot of character, where can accommodate up to but are still looking for a Lords of the Manor naturally brewed ales and 100 people and is fully Midlands experience. The lagers with names like equipped for audio visual. Redlands Hotel has two Commonly referred to as and meeting facilities for the Pickled Pig Porter, the Smaller meeting facilities dedicated conference rooms the ‘Jewel of the Midlands’, up to 60 delegates are Tiddly Toad Lager and the are also available. that can accommodate this elegant and beautiful available in a venue that is up to 80 delegates. The hotel at the start of the undoubtedly different. With Redlands Room, the larger Midlands Meander has stone walls and enormous Old Halliwell Country Inn of the two, is self-contained, the distinct feel of an era Swiss bay windows, it’s a offering delegates a private gone by. Sprawling lawns, grand country affair. The The Old Halliwell Country its gracious charm with experience away from the 150-year-old oaks and a venue comes fully equipped Inn, which is set on 100 a cosy library, restaurant main hotel. The hotel also manor house are all part with data projectors, flip hectares of rolling hills and small cigar lounge. boasts a boardroom, ideal and parcel of this historic charts and all the other overlooking the Karkloof The property can host for smaller functions and venue. Contemporary necessities required for Valley, dates back to the up to 360 people in its meetings. The standard set- comforts are, however, a successful meeting, 1830s. The main building venue, Halliwell Hall. It can up is U-shape, around which everywhere. Conference including free WiFi. was originally a fortified also accommodate small 15 delegates can be seated farmhouse and still retains meetings groups with ease. comfortably.  Visit: www.travelinfo.co.za

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QUICK READ FOR BUSIEST PEOPLE Wednesday September 23 2015 n 9 Harvey World Travel, Auckland Park An impatient client would not have After asking if she had any other taken well to this consultant. After suggestions for me, she reiterated explaining that my friends and I that Vietnam and Cambodia was the were open to suggestions on where only package I should be looking to visit within the south-east Asia at, and began to give me quotes region, the consultant immediately – casually informing me that I was cut me off and said: “Tell me where going to have to up my budget by you want to go so I can look up R14 000pp. Again, I asked if there quotes.” Again I mentioned that were any other packages and again we didn’t have any destination in she said no, going on to explain what particular in mind and asked if she activities would be included in this could recommend anything. She package. I suspected that she had a sharply and impatiently repeated: preferred agreement with a particular “You must tell me the countries you tour operator as she refused to want to visit.” Irritated by her tone, give me any other suggestions. In I suggested Thailand and Vietnam. the end, however, she recovered, She said this was an unpopular demonstrating considerable The Naked Agent pairing, adding that “everyone is knowledge on the areas in question. doing Vietnam and Cambodia”. Too bad I had already been put off by What’s more, when I then told her I her initial rudeness. Scenario: A group of young people who often travel together have was hoping to travel in June 2016, their sights set on south-east Asia. Keen to visit somewhere new, she cut me off and said she could they are all about partying and having a good time! TNW’s mystery only book for travel this year. shopper took to the phone for this assignment. Munlin Travel, Parkwood Be genuine! I initially put forward my request to the repeated the scenario to the agent I person who answered the phone, not was transferred to, explaining that I just WINNER knowing she was a receptionist. She wanted an idea of where to go and how said she would transfer me to a travel much it would cost. She said I would Pentravel, City Bowl agent and then asked if I was enquiring have to once again repeat the scenario about an international trip. Bearing in in an email and send it to her, because Esihle Nomkuca searched for answers mind that I had already told her that I “the woman who deals with these was easy-going and to my questions rather was considering Thailand, Vietnam and types of enquiries is not in today”. I did approachable. She than just saying: “I surrounding destinations, I wondered not send this email, and instead called provided me with don’t know.” However, whether she thought these countries another travel agency. various options for our she ultimately won me were actually cities within South group but ultimately over towards the end Africa. Nonetheless, I said yes and recommended Vietnam of our conversation and Thailand because when she addressed the one provides each and every one Esihle’s top tips a more cultural of my needs: the experience while the experiences I was 1 Try to get to know your client. You sample a whole continent in a week other would cater for hoping to get out of the are dealing with people’s dreams – if it’s not possible, let them know. the ‘shop and party’ trip and the budget – Esihle Nomkuca therefore you should try to see what 3 Be genuine. If you let clients know experience that we which she said did not they want and try your best to get it! you have their interests at heart, why were after. She spoke from need to increase. She also called 2 Be realistic. Some people want to wouldn’t they want to book with you? experience as she described back within two hours to tell me Thailand, also convincing me to that she had liaised with tour visit three cities in each country operators who had advised me to Take note! and suggesting which cities travel for longer because I would would be cheaper for us. She be paying the same amount if I The purpose of the Naked Agent in this series is to access the experience from only a also checked if there were any stayed four days longer than the sales skills perspective and not the effectiveness of the travel agency. TNW believes that specials on offer for that time time frame I had given her. I was of year. highly impressed by her service. sales skills are increasingly important to travel agents and, in many cases, improvement Esihle admitted that she didn’t in selling skills is the easiest way to increase the prosperity of the agency and its know much about Vietnam but consultants. The Naked Agent is designed to raise awareness of the opportunity and build awareness of the need.

TNW7255SD TNW7251SD 10 n Wednesday September 23 2015 QUICK READ FOR DECISION-MAKERS TNW7251SD Photo: Photo Express

Did you know? As the rand continues to plummet, an increasing number of affordable destinations in South-east Asia are drawing South African travellers. Darise Foster reports. Singapore is Asia’s top meeting and convention city, according to a report conducted by the Union of International Associations (UIA) and International Congress and Convention Association (ICCA). Exotic experiences at an Earlier this year, the city-state also retained its spot as the UIA’s top international meeting city for the eighth year running. Both rankings serve to emphasise that event owners continue to regard Singapore affordable price as a top MICE destination. Singapore’s combination of excellent infrastructure, efficiency, vibrant business ecosystem, knowledge OUTH-EAST Asia, Theresa Szejwallo. networks and strategic location in Asia are key attributes for meeting with its favourable “Couple this with the fact exchange rates, that certain destinations planners considering the city as a destination. S has become increasingly in the region are visa-free attractive to local travellers, for SA passport holders for especially now that the rand stays of up to 30 days and has hit all-time lows. you have a winning recipe.” Find your adventure... In fact, industry experts Singapore Airlines seem to agree that marketing development destinations within the manager, Sally George, region have established notes that the local MICE themselves as firm industry in particular has favourites with South taken notice of South-east Africans. “With certain Asia. A significant part of the destinations visa-free “Incentive groups are keen appeal is the landscape of for SA passport holders to try new destinations such the various countries within as Vietnam and Cambodia,” the region, which are very for stays of up to she says. Other experts different to South Africa, 30 days, you have a agree, these destinations with their unique cultures, have emerged as a growing languages and intriguing winning recipe.” trend, especially as part of cuisine, says Trafalgar md, Theresa Szejwallo a packaged tour.

An easy sell! There are a number of Cathay Pacific and are spoiled for choice,” reasons why the region Singapore Airlines, points he says. “Checkout Tours is an attractive sell for out Checkout Tours also offers product and agents. The fact that product and operations destination training to South Africans do not manager, Christopher agents – making it even Journey through Vietnam require visas for many Simonsen. easier to sell to their of the destinations “Airfares are cheap and clients.” – 8 Days already places it at the top many tour operators have When agents book of the list of easy-selling great package deals – clients on a Trafalgar- Valid: 21 Oct 15 – 30 Apr 16 options for travel agents, particularly to Thailand guided holiday to these says Annemarie Lexow, and Bali,” notes Sally, countries, they can rest sales and marketing adding that Singapore assured that all the details Price: R15920 pps manager at TravelVision. Airlines offers daily flights will be taken care of and Singapore, Thailand, from Johannesburg with that a local travel director Stay in 4* Hotels on half-board basis, with 2 Nights Malaysia and Bali are all good connections to all – who speaks English each in Hanoi & Ho Chi Minh City & 1 Night each in visa-free. the major gateways in the and the local language Hoi An & Hue. Spend 1 Night cruising in Halong Bay What’s more, access is region. – will make their holiday on a full-board basis with on board entertainment. relatively easy through For Christopher, the memorable, says Theresa. Sightseeing in a luxury air-conditioned coach with an extensive network of destination sells itself. “We take away the hassle English speaking guide, bottled water & cold towels in flights offered by SAA, “South-east Asia has so of arranging everything Etihad, Qatar, Emirates, much to offer that agents yourself.” vehicle. Domestic airfares, entrance fees, boat fees & all transfers included. Peak period supplements apply. Book it!

Trade and Tourism Solutions is running a 13-night, 14-day special for Vietnam and Cambodia. From R24 320pps, travellers will visit Hanoi, Ha Long, Hue, Saigon (Ho Chi Minh City), Siem Reap and Chau Doc. The offer includes transfers by private air-conditioned vehicle, a local English-speaking guide, Tel: (011) 408-8000 accommodation in twin/double-share rooms, cruises in Ha Long, entrance fees for all sightseeing as Fax: (011) 782-7624 mentioned in the itinerary (on request), 13 breakfasts, 12 lunches and eight dinners. Flights (from Hanoi email: [email protected] to Hue, Da Nang to Saigon and appropriate taxes) are all included as are all appropriate service fees. TNW7454

12 n Wednesday September 23 2015 QUICK READ FOR DECISION-MAKERS Sampling the local delicacies.

Something for everyone TNW7219SD South-east Asia offers vouchers to excellent person sharing, including options for travellers accommodation deals and flights, accommodation, working with different additional value-ads like transfers, breakfast and types of budgets. Sally spa treatments included taxes,” says Christopher. says in Singapore high- at some resorts, there is “That makes Phuket even end travellers who want to something for everyone,” cheaper than some of the splash out can stay at the she says. closer tropical destinations famous Marina Bay Sands, According to Christopher, in the Indian Ocean.” while budget travellers Thailand, Laos, Burma Bali is one of the most have the option to stay and Malaysia are generally expensive destinations at a three-star hotel and more cost effective than in the region to visit eat out at the local food Cambodia and Vietnam, because there are no courts. “This is a very and packaged tours to direct flights, which adds cheap way to dine and Cambodia and Vietnam to the cost of reaching experience Singapore’s that include guides will the destination, says local food,” she notes. work out to be much Annemarie. “Singapore According to Annemarie, pricier than multi-city trips is mostly a stop-over South-east Asian around Thailand. “Seven- destination, although destinations always seem night beach packages to the accommodation and to have something new Phuket, for example, start shopping will attract the to offer. “From shopping at around R9 000 per more affluent traveller.”

Local laws and customs As TravelVision’s Annemarie advised to ask permission avoided,” Christopher adds. points out, there are always before taking pictures of Sally jokes that Singapore laws that a traveller needs people – especially monks. is known as “fine city”. to comply with when visiting “Vietnam forbids the taking “Travellers can receive fines a foreign country and it is of photographs at ports, for jay walking, dropping litter imperative that they are well- harbours and airports,” and even chewing gum.” The versed on these before they she adds. Travellers should death penalty applies for depart. also greet all locals with drug traffickers in this city, According to Theresa, the traditional bow, holding she adds. it is also important that their hands together at Lesley Simpson, those travelling to South- chest level. “And never leave spokesperson for the east Asia be mindful of the chopsticks sticking upright Tourism Authority of Thailand, local cultural nuances. “For in a bowl of rice as this has says Thai people live example, travellers should strong death connotations,” peaceful, simple lives but never touch the head of any advises Theresa. they also follow a few rules. local in any of the countries She further advises For instance, travellers must in this region,” she says. travellers to respect the not point at other people “Most of these countries local customs at temples – and they must especially adhere to Buddhist norms and places of worship by avoid pointing with their feet. and the head is seen as removing their footwear “Also, they must not talk sacred and should never be before entering. “Wearing about the King, they must touched or rubbed.” shorts or revealing clothes in eat off a spoon, not a fork, In Cambodia, says places of worship in Thailand and they must not raise their Theresa, travellers are and Bali should also be voice at anyone,” she says.

Did you know?

Air Mauritius and Hong Kong Airlines have entered into a codeshare agreement to provide travellers with enhanced opportunities to Mauritius. Under the codeshare, Hong Kong Airlines will place its HX code on Air TNW7043SD Mauritius’s twice-weekly direct flights between Hong Kong and Mauritius. Hong Kong Airlines codeshares on Air Mauritius’s flight MK640/HK 1640 departing Hong Kong at 01h30 to arrive in Mauritius at 07h15 every For a FREE subscription to TNW Tuesday and Saturday, as well as flight MK641/HK1641, which departs Mauritius at 20h45 every Thursday and contact Gladys on [email protected] Sunday to arrive in Hong Kong at 10h30 the next day.

QUICK READ FOR BUSIEST PEOPLE Wednesday September 23 2015 n 13 Book it!

Encore Cruises has a variety of voyages on offer in South-east Asia at great prices.  Sail from Singapore to Bangkok for 16 nights from January 18 to February 3 from US$6 499pp (R88 153). Ports of call include Penang, Sabang, Yangon (Burma), Phuket, Langkawi and Kuala Lumpur.  Sail from Bangkok to Hong Kong for 17 nights from February 3-20 from US$7 499pp (R101 729) visiting ports of call such as Koh Samui, Sihanoukville, Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon), Maura, Kota Kinabalu, Boracay Island and Manila.  Sail from Hong Kong to Tokyo for 16 nights from February 20-March 7 from US$6 599pp (R89 520) visiting ports of call such as Xiamen, Shanghai, Beijing, Seoul and Kyoto, or sail from Singapore to Dubai for 20 nights from April 12-May 2 from US$7 299pp (R99 019) visiting ports of call such as Kuala Lumpur, Penang, Phuket, Mangalore, Mumbai and Abu Dhabi. Book it!

 Trafalgar’s Secrets of Thailand guided holiday starts from R29 995 per person twin share for ten days exploring Bangkok, Kanchanaburi and Chiang Mai. This includes a city tour of Bangkok and a village tour of Ban Mae Kampong, a cruise along Elephant Hills offers an interactive experience with Asian elephants. Photo: TAT the Mekong River, a visit to the Bridge over the River Kwai in Kanchanaburi, views of the Golden Triangle where Myanmar, Thailand and Laos converge, and a visit to Wat Pho Temple, the Thailand offers great value Grand Palace, Damnoen Saduak floating market in Bangkok, and the Hall of Opium. The package also includes accommodation with THE most popular destination accommodation floating on buffet breakfast daily, three dinners and five lunches (including in the region, Thailand is also water. “Other destinations that the second most popular have caught the attention of the Be My Guest lunch). All hotel tips, charges and local taxes – destination for outbound South African travellers are the including porter service plus transportation and airport transfers South Africans. “This makes Zeavola resort in the Phi Phi are included. it an easy sell all on its own,” islands – especially popular  Checkout Tours is offering a four-star Hong Kong and Krabi special maintains Lesley Simpson. with honeymooners.” from R18 782pps. The offer is valid until October 31 and includes “Travellers get such good value Christopher Simonsen return flights and taxes, three nights in Hong Kong and seven for money, which maintains agrees that destinations nights in Krabi, with breakfast daily and return airport transfers. its attractiveness as a like Chiang Mai, Krabi and  Kulula holidays is currently running a special for the Old Phuket destination.” Khao Lak are becoming more Karon Beach Resort in Thailand. Travellers can stay at the Lesley says Thailand is mainstream. “And for the well- four-star resort for prices starting from R12 100 leaving from more than just Phuket and travelled, new up-and-coming Bangkok. She admits that destinations within Surat Johannesburg, R14 074 from Cape Town and R13 754 from most first-time Thailand Thani, Chumpon and Khanom Durban, all inclusive of taxes. The offer includes a welcome drink visitors will initially choose are also becoming more on arrival, a round-trip shuttle to the Central Festival Department Phuket for its reputation popular.” Store and a one-way transfer to Patong Beach (as per the hotel’s of fun in the sun, however Lesley says Phuket has, schedule). It also includes one Thai dinner (food only) for two many repeat visitors look for arguably, the cheapest hotel people at Chili Restaurant and a 30-minute foot massage for two new areas and experiences. accommodation but is more adults. The offer is valid from November 1 to December 9 and “Some of these include the expensive in terms of food, bookings must be paid for by October 31. likes of Khao Lak in the north “Travellers get drink and activities. “If visiting  Thompsons Holidays is offering a seven-night special for the of Phuket, and parks such Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai such good value three-star Asana Agung Putra Hotel in Bali. The offer includes as Khao Sok National Park.” for money, which in the north of Thailand, the Travellers are also advised to food and clothing are far return flights from Johannesburg to Bali, airline levies, return visit places such as Elephant maintains Thailand’s cheaper than in Phuket and transfers, breakfast daily, two full-day tours, one half-day tour Hills, which offers a genuine attractiveness as a other cities in the south. The and a welcome drink on arrival. Fares start from R11 975pps interactive experience with appeal in the north is more ex-Johannesburg, R13 199pps ex-Cape Town and R13 839pps Asian elephants and a unique destination.” about culture and adventure ex-Durban. The offer is valid until December 14.  camping ground offering tented Lesley Simpson activities,” she notes.

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14 n Wednesday September 23 2015 QUICK READ FOR DECISION-MAKERS COMMUNITYNEWS JOBS Births, deaths, marriages, promotions – we want to know! Please fax or e-mail TNW’s Debbie Badham, at [email protected] or (011) 327 4094. Pick of the week brought to you by

Executive PA – Cape Town Intermediate Consultant – Quantex Recruitment Group Cape Town PA required by (gentleman) Director. Quantex Recruitment Group Your 5+ years’ experience will Travel agency requires your 3+ be rewarded in a happy, team years’ corporate expertise. Ideal spirited environment. candidate will have excellent Salary R15000–R19000. Email: [email protected] destination knowledge & sound Thank you! track record. Galileo. Project Manager (Events) – Email: [email protected] Hahn Air recently hosted its top clients at a breakfast event at Ten Bompas in Jnb North Johannesburg to thank them for their support. The top three clients, pictured here, Professional Career Services Groups & Conferences Consultant PCO seeks creative individual with – Durban were recognised with special awards. Flight Centre came out tops. From left: Andrea min 5 years’ experience. Drive events Professional Career Services Trinkaus (Hahn Air); Sharon Burgers (Carlson Wagonlit Travel); Henry Annandale (ITC from start to finish. Experience with Min 8 years’ experience. Travel Travel); Kirsty Kloppers (Flight Centre); and Candy Kasonkomona (Hahn Air). corporates and associations. product knowledge. Galileo. Must Email: [email protected] have meetings, events, conferences, incentives, outbound groups exp. German Consultant – Durban Lee Botti & Associates Own transport. Gentlemen, Your fluency in German & your Email: [email protected] motivation to be trained into the travel industry opens this door to success! Travel Buyer – Durban lunch is served! Email: [email protected] Lee Botti & Associates Opportunities abound for ON AUGUST 28, the Assistant Manager – experienced & strong negotiator Travelbags luncheon, Johannesburg North with the ability to understand sponsored by fastjet, was Equity Connections cc contracts and secure the Suit highly skilled in-bound expert best possible outcome. held at the Apollo Hotel with extensive leadership experience. on Bram Fischer Drive, Must understand all aspects of tour Email: [email protected] Johannesburg. Travelbags operating. Africa knowledge essential. Email: [email protected] FIT/Groups Consultant – Sandton hosts a monthly luncheon, Equity Connections cc where travel trade industry Photo: Shannon Van Zyl Internal Auditor – Gauteng Intermediate/Senior position for players can come together Flight Centre Travel Group individual with in-depth working and network or catch up on This role is to mitigate Flight Centre’s knowledge of the in-bound market. risk, potential loss of profits and industry news over some Handle FIT’s/groups into South/ conducting regular in store audits. Southern Africa. delicious food. Pictured here Email: Lauren.grobbelaar@ Email: [email protected] enjoying some post-lunch flightcentre.co.za drinks are Justin Glanville Senior Inbound Consultant – Senior Travel Consultant – (left), fastjet commercial Randburg Eastrand manager SA, and Ian Petrie, We have numerous vacancies available in both Travel Agencies Wendy’s Travel Personnel Flight Centre Travel Group A minimum of 2 years’ in a fastjet head of commercial, and Tour Operators for experienced and qualified Travel Industry Reservations, handling FIT and corporate travel environment. Professionals. group bookings in tour-operating Tanzania. environment for a minimum of 4 Proven track record with consistent Positions available in the following areas: years required by sales figures. Email:  Consultants (Inbound/Outbound/ leading inbound operator! Email: [email protected] Wholesale/Leisure and Corporate) [email protected] Online Ticketing Consultant –  Sales/New Business Development Intermediate Corporate Consultant  Finance – Cape Town Cape Town Club Travel  Account Management Club Travel Seeking skilled consultant with Corporate Division. Galileo, a  Operations Management a minimum 3 years’ corporate minimum of 3 years’ ticketing To advertise  And more... consulting experience. Must be experience and proficient in manual proficient in Amadeus and Sabre. fare builds and reissues. on this page Should you be looking for a new and exciting career opportunity Email: [email protected] Email: [email protected] please contact either Jean or Nono or log on to our website to

email apply online. TNW7459 [email protected] These adverts were selected from the vacancy E mail: [email protected] | [email protected] section of www.travelinfo.co.za Web: www.pcs-sa.co.za For more details contact TNW7418 [email protected]

TRAVEL NEWS WEEKLY Promote your product in our Why should you use us? Agent Training & Recruitment National offices Feature For a FREE Interview face-to-face subscription Obtain detailed references to TNW Credit & criminal checks contact Gladys Highly trained consultants on Visible advertising [email protected] Abide by APSO ethics Issue Date: 18 November 2015 Booking deadline: 21 October 2015 Contact us at Contact: [email protected] [email protected] TNW7419 Tel: 011 214 7334/7356 TNW7460

QUICK READ FOR BUSIEST PEOPLE Wednesday September 23 2015 n 15 TNW NEWS Marriott brand debuts in SA

Tessa Reed Marriott Hotel Melrose bring much-needed MICE Arch and Marriott Executive business as well as long-stay ARRIOTT International Apartments will be developed guests, said Alex, and added will open its first by the Amdec Group, which that the group saw a need in Mbranded hotel also developed the Melrose Africa for branded long-stay and conference centre in Arch precinct. Construction is accommodation for corporate Johannesburg’s Melrose Arch expected to begin soon and travellers. precinct, opposite the Protea the hotel will open its doors “Serviced apartments give Hotel Fire & Ice. in 2018. guests the opportunity of Alex Kyriakidis, president The new development having a home away from and md of Marriott would broaden the appeal of home.” He added that the International’s MEA region, the precinct, while the new apartments had a living room told TNW that the new conference centre would fill and kitchen and also offered development would comprise a gap in its offering, Alex the security that came with a 150 hotel rooms, 200 said. The apartments will be known brand. long-stay apartments and a serviced and guests at the Alex also hinted that the conference centre catering apartments will have the full group was keen to develop for groups of up to 500 use of the hotel’s facilities. further hotels in South people. The development would Africa.  Get that brolly out! Corporates will continue to cut costs AfricaStay is offering a range of specials to the Debbie Badham cars they were renting, the increase in car-rental spend. majestic Victoria Falls, at three- to five-star resorts, length of their business In light of the current starting at R4 570pps. Packages include two or three EXPECT the downward stays as well as greater challenge within the nights’ accommodation, flights from Johannesburg economic trend to continue restrictions on the class of corporate space, Lance said (including taxes), hotel transfers, some meals and for a while still, says Lance vehicle being booked. it was imperative for car-hire a sunset cruise or excursions. For more details, see Smith, Avis’s executive Interestingly, the domestic companies to look to other Travelinfo. Avoiding the spray, are: Karlien Gouws director of sales, who leisure market had bucked markets for growth. and Stephanie Hindson (AfricaStay Southern Africa shared trends in the car- the downward trend and had “South Africa is a self-drive experts). Photo: Shannon Van Zyl rental market with TNW in a seen growth, Lance said, country, making it ideal for recent exclusive interview. adding that this was largely car rental. Once tourists These trends served as because of the weakening have visited the country two an accurate forecast for rand, which had made it or three times, they will opt future developments in the much cheaper and easier to to make their next trip self- economy as a whole, Lance travel locally. drive. said. Also, locals were “However, we need to brought to you by eTNW and TRAVELINFO The car-rental market encouraged to use rewards resolve the visa regulations has slowed down over the from loyalty programmes – those have been a past 18 months, largely as such as Discovery Vitality dampener.” a result of the corporate and FNB eBucks to travel, To take advantage of market, which is down by he said. “The number- new opportunities, Lance double digits. one benefit most often said it was imperative for “Corporates are continuing redeemed from these rental companies to set Two passports make travelling easy! to tighten their belts. The programmes is travel. As themselves apart through major mining houses in such, they have driven spectacular service, which Do you get more business from clients with dual citizenship? particular have cut back on significant additional was a critical differentiator.  Yes, clients with two spend,” he said. demand.” “Why would someone Corporates were continuing passports can travel to He added that the choose to come to Avis? to rent cars, Lance said, but launch of several new I believe it would be the more places without visas. there had been a marked low-cost airlines had also expectation of better  No, South African passport reduction in the number of encouraged a general service.”  holders book just as much travel.

South African New airline coming to SA… Passport 43% From page 1 this was no longer a deterrent. would be rand-based. Other through to Bangkok and New “Given Mega Maldives’ fleet The Maldives is marginalised Passport 57% Delhi,” said Derek, adding that growth and our route network in South Africa compared visitor numbers from South development, the timing is with other popular beach Africa to the Maldives had right for us and we believe it destinations, according to shown constant growth of 8% is right, too, for the market. Derek. “We are keen to year-on-year for the last five The current devaluation of the ensure that we rekindle years. rand has of course not gone the market interest for the eTravel is the ITC market leader in South Africa and assists senior Travel Mega Maldives Airlines unnoticed by Mega Maldives, Maldives, as it has been some Consultants and Travel business owners to realise their dreams. If you have first announced the possible but there are several factors years since there has been a ever dreamt of owning your own travel business or would like to cut costs launch of a South African why it is still viable to fly into direct flight.” 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 route two years ago in March this market,” he said. Mega Maldives will be 200 Independent Travel Companies and specialise 2013. However, at that time, The airline’s schedule would working closely with the travel in making your travel business a success by offering the airline cancelled the allow for easy five-night breaks trade in South Africa, with the best commissions, overrides & a comprehensive launch of the route, citing the for South African travellers, plans to organise educationals support structure. If you have a client base, 5 years weak rand/dollar exchange with a direct eight-hour flight in the near future. travel consultant experience or already own your own business but want to make more, then contact rate as the main obstacle in to the Maldives, Derek said. Lloyd Orr has been appointed us! You’ll be amazed at how easy it is! the South African market. “This makes the Maldives a sales representative for Mega Contact Tammy on 0861eTrave1 Although the rand is currently value-for-money proposition in Maldives Airlines, and will be or [email protected] trading at an all-time low these tough economic times,” assisting the airline with its against the dollar, Derek said he said, adding that all fares launch in South Africa.  TNW7136

16 n Wednesday September 23 2015 QUICK READ FOR DECISION-MAKERS