February 4 2015 I No. 2335 Southern Africa’s Travel News Weekly

TRAVEL NEWS WEEKLY TNW6867SD Feature News News Zimbabwe Brazil ‘Unexpected’ VAT hits tourism Visitors urged to ‘go local’ SADC Is a stronger regional INSIDE Page 2 Page 4 network needed? Page 6 SAA revalidations – beware ADMs

Dorine Reinstein or revalidates the ticket beyond from the traveller. be tracked and the agency issued the prescribed time limit, the The new policy came into effect an ADM for the unused portion AA has introduced stringent airline system will detect the at the end of last year but until that was not re-issued or refunded penalties for agents failing January 15, SAA had an auto immediately. Sto follow the right procedures suspension policy in place for Rachael adds that it is important when revalidating unused SAA, SA “These ‘unused’ tickets previously issued tickets. Now, for travel agents to warn and Express and SA Airlink tickets. will now be tracked and the previously issued tickets that still educate their clients. Under the new regulations, if have ‘open’ sector coupons with “We were warned in September a traveller cancels a flight or agency issued an ADM for no corresponding reserved flights that this was coming, and we have the return portion of a ticket, the unused portion that was will be affected. refunded all outstanding tickets travel agents need to rebook and not re-issued or refunded Rachael Penaluna, business that we were ‘holding’ on SAA. We re-issue the ticket before the manager of Sure Maritime Travel, have had to educate clients who original flight was due to depart immediately.” explains that agents often ‘kept’ expect us to ‘keep’ their unused or within 24 hours of the client tickets with unused dates for tickets for future use. cancelling the flight, whichever is breach of the rule and that travel further use for their clients, for up “If a ticket is not used in its soonest. agent will be debited the full to six months. entirety on the dates issued, If the travel agent circumvents cost of the ticket and would This is a thing of the past, as it must be put in for refund the new regulations and reissues need to recover this amount these ‘unused’ tickets will now immediately.”  Bidvest to launch car-rental brand

Natasha Schmidt the spirit of our long-standing relationship and both parties After more than 20 years of are fully committed to ensuring managing the Budget car and no disruption to customers and van rental franchise in South partners alike. Over the coming Africa, Bidvest will cut ties with month, Bidvest will embark on the the Avis Budget Group (ABG), launch of Bidvest Car Rental, a as of February 28. The vehicle truly and ‘Proudly South African’ hire business will be rebranded domestic car and van rental and trade as Bidvest Car Rental. business.” The existing infrastructure, This means there was now an management and team will remain opportunity for another candidate unaffected following this decision. to take up the Budget licence and Bidvest’s agreement with ABG, brand, a source told TNW. Get away for Valentine’s Day! which is headquartered in the The Avis Budget Group is a global US, expired on January 23 and a provider of vehicle rental services, Valentine’s Day is coming up and now is the time to book for a romantic separation agreement has been both through its Avis and Budget holiday for two in Mauritius. World Leisure Holidays is offering ‘Spouse Stays concluded to ensure a smooth brands. It owns and operates most Free’ packages at its Ambre, La Pirogue, Sugar Beach, Long Beach and Le transition through to the end of Avis and Budget car-rental offices Touessrok resorts for set departures between February 13 and 20 (subject to February. in North America, Europe and availability at the time of making the booking). Toasting love, romance and Bidvest South Africa’s ce, Lindsay Australia, and operates primarily happy travelling are World Leisure Holidays’ Cathie Bester (national sales Ralphs, said: “The separation through licensees in other parts of manager) and Johann Strydom (md). Photo: Shannon Van Zyl discussions have followed in the world. 

TNW6864SD NEWS

Zim tourism hit by ‘unexpected’ VAT

Dorine Reinstein was not adequately informed “No clarity had been given as to how and when the on what would happen to IMBABWE’S tourism VAT would be implemented. confirmed bookings and which industry has been “We have only now been services would be affected, Ztaken by surprise by the advised by a Gazette dated and no legal instrument had sudden introduction of the January 16 that the VAT is been announced or gazetted.” controversial 15% tourism effective immediately, leaving The VAT has made it difficult VAT on January 16. The tax us already liable for losses for the tourism industry in applies to payments for for the past few days, not to Zimbabwe to keep suppliers accommodation for foreign mention the people who have up to date, says Brent. “I visitors to the country. already been quoted for future have already received emails Tour operators in Zimbabwe stays.” from some of our agents TNW6002SD expected the VAT to be Beks Ndlovu, ceo of African who are very upset that shelved after the country’s Bush Camps, says the they have to now go to their finance minister, Patrick industry was forewarned in clients and advise that there Rubes® By Leigh Rubin Chinamasa, omitted to May last year of the possible is a 15% increase on their mention the tax in his 2015 implementation of VAT but no accommodation prices. budget announcement. clarity was given on when it This not only has increased Brent Williamson, owner of would be implemented and our workload, but may Adventure Zone and Lodge, legislated, which has led to possibly outpace us as a says the tourism industry frustration and confusion. destination.” 

Meetings Africa – 2015 agenda

Tessa Reed and Africa’s standing from a together over 40 local and global perspective. international professional MEETINGS Africa 2015 will Further highlights on the speakers as well as other consist of two exhibition Monday include the Event providers to the conferencing days on February 24 Greening Forum, which takes industry and is aimed at and 25 at the Sandton place from 09h00 to 12h00 corporate event planners. Convention Centre, preceded and the Council of Event The programme will also by Business Opportunities Professionals Africa Summit include a media face-off Networking Day (BOND Day), from 13h00 to 16h00. themed ‘Business Events: a day of workshops and The opening ceremony Gearing a Continent Up seminars. on Tuesday morning will for Growth’, which will BOND Day, on Monday, be officiated by Tourism examine the state and the February 23, aims to drive Minister, Derek Hanekom. contribution of the business engagement in the industry. Programme highlights events industry on the The programme will include include corporate business- continent; the growth of SA’s the International Association to-business, speed business events industry of Convention Centres Africa marketing sessions on over the last decade; and Summit, a full day forum Tuesday and Wednesday and how collaboration across the covering global and African the Unique Speakers Bureau continent will benefit Africa. Founding Editors: industry trends, marketing corporate buyers showcase To register to attend or for John H Marsh (1914-1996) Leona Marsh (1923-2003) and sales. It will also cover on the Wednesday. more information, visit www. EDITORIAL the relevance of trade shows The showcase brings meetingsafrica.co.za.  TRAVEL NEWS WEEKLY Group Editor: Natasha Schmidt [email protected] Deputy Editor: Bruce Dennill [email protected] www.etnw.co.za Features Editor: Michelle Colman [email protected] Published by Contributors: Travel & Trade Publishing (Pty) Ltd Debbie Badham Max Marx Marriott opens first hotel in SA Printed by Juka Printing (Pty) Ltd Hilka Birns Caro Malherbe Phone: (011) 327-4062 Dorine Reinstein Darise Foster MARRIOTT International will suites with lounges and six been in the City Bowl and Fax: (011) 327-4094 Photographer: Shannon Van Zyl E-mail: [email protected] Production Editor: Ann Braun open its first Protea Hotel- luxury lofts with lounges. Atlantic Seaboard, as well Web: www.nowmedia.co.za branded property in South “The signing of this new as the northern suburbs. Publisher Address: Now Media Centre, Kate Nathan [email protected] Africa since its acquisition hotel under the Protea More recently it had moved 32 Fricker Road, Illovo Boulevard, of the Protea Group in April Hotels brand reinforces into the Century City lifestyle Illovo, Johannesburg. Group Publisher PO Box 55251, Northlands, David Marsh [email protected] last year. Protea is one of our focus on continuing precinct with the five-star 2116, South Africa. 18 brands under the Marriott to grow the footprint of conferencing hotel, African ADVERTISING Sales: [email protected] International umbrella. the brand in South Africa Pride Crystal Towers Hotel Advertising Co-ordinator: The Protea Hotel Mowbray and other strategic growth & Spa. Courtney Canham [email protected] in Cape Town’s southern areas within Africa,” said Mark said Protea Hotel PRODUCTION suburbs will open on Mark Satterfield, Marriott Mowbray’s main target Design Head: February 1. International business leader markets would be corporate Dirk Voorneveld The hotel comprises 46 in South Africa. travellers, the MICE industry, Subscriptions standard studio rooms, 12 Mark said the natural domestic leisure travellers, Circulation [email protected] one-bedroom suites with growth trajectory for the families, and sports lounges, six two-bedroom brand in Cape Town had groups. 

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2 n Wednesday February 4 2015 QUICK READ FOR DECISION-MAKERS TNW6869SD NEWS Brazil visitors urged to ‘go local’

Bruce Dennill authority’s ‘Another Brazil’ “Package tours load factors. “As the only package tours taking in campaign. airline flying directly to other South American RAZIL offers a A challenge, Richard taking in other South Brazil from South Africa, destinations were a good wide range of said, was that corporate American destinations we watch our load factors option, with add-ons to Bincentive options clients asked for fresh are a good option, weekly and offer specials Machu Picchu in Peru and for corporates who want incentive ideas but if they can be afforded.” Buenos Aires in Argentina to ‘go local’, blending were unwilling to act on with add-ons to Both Richard and being popular. “The a business focus with suggestions if there were Machu Picchu in Peru Denise said the high beaches of the northeast the destination’s unique no direct flights to the and Buenos Aires prices associated with region, on the other hand, tourist activities. destinations involved. Brazil’s recent economic are under-marketed.” This was the word Rio, the Iguaçu Falls, in Argentina being boom (thanks to new oil São Paulo was a good from Richard Lengsfeld, São Paulo and Brasilia popular.” discoveries, international hub for continental travel, director of Brazilian were popular with South interest in the 2014 he said. “SAA has strong Incentive and Tourism Africans, he said. Soccer World Cup and interline partnerships (BIT), who met with SAA’s national retail were the two biggest 2016 Olympics and with LATAM airlines, which the travel trade in channel manager, Denise draws for SA travellers improved security) were makes it easy to book Johannesburg recently Kotze, said sport events and that group specials now dropping. such itineraries,” said to introduce the tourism and the Rio Carnival were offered according to Richard added that Denise.  LAM launches low-cost product MOZAMBIQUE Airlines (LAM) flights and passengers are has introduced ‘Letzgo’, only allowed 10kg of checked which offers cheap airfares luggage and 5kg of hand on selected domestic flights luggage. between Maputo, Beira, Flights are operated by Nampula, Tete and Quelimane. a 50-seat LAM Embraer A normal return ticket from 145 and a 128-seat Boeing Maputo to Beira costs 737-300. MZN13 625 (about R4 762). The Letzgo flight schedule With a Letzgo ticket, the runs at night (with departures price falls to MZN8 928 between 20h00 and 23h55) (R3 119), including taxes. on Mondays, Tuesdays, There is no catering on the Thursdays and Saturdays. 

Ethiopia – steep increase for visas on arrival SA PASSPORT holders will to R960 for six months have to pay substantially multiple-entry. more for visas on arrival The cost of a business when visiting Ethiopia. visa has increased from The cost of a tourist R140 to R360 for 30 days visa has increased from single-entry, from R210 to R140 to R480 for 30 days R480 for 90 days multiple- single-entry, from R210 to entry, and from R350 R720 for 90 days multiple- to R720 for six months entry, and from R280 multiple-entry. 

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4 n Wednesday February 4 2015 QUICK READ FOR DECISION-MAKERS TNW6865SD SADC TNW talks to local airlines, gauging opinion on the need for more regional options and whether this could bring prices down. Does Southern Africa need a stronger regional network? OME of South Africa’s mass. Short- and medium-term He says the reason why smaller airports are passenger volumes will not regional flights are often quite Sseeking new regional support a sustainable LCC pricey is because the unit status that would allow them service.” costs associated with smaller to operate larger networks Nico agrees, pointing out markets, and commensurately in the Southern African that, although it has been smaller aircraft, are far higher, Development Community proved internationally that as are operating costs at (SADC). regional airports stimulate the many over-border regional According to Susan market, in smaller markets destinations. van der Ryst, Corporate such as SA there may not be Susan agrees that prices for Communications Manager the demand to match this regional flights are unlikely to for Comair, South Africa had additional capacity. decrease with more airports. 47 international airports prior LCCs already operating in “Prices could even increase to 1995, which increased the South African market due to the additional airport the risk for illegal entry into dispute this, taking the view infrastructure and operating the country. “To tighten the that the opening of new costs. The burden of increased borders and have proper regional gateways would be operating costs will be placed customs facilities in place, welcome. For Oliver Wigdahl, on the airline and ultimately the government imposed vp commercial Flysafair, any the fare price,” she says, legislation to allow no more Nico Bezuidenhout degree of liberalisation would Oliver Wigdahl adding that prices are subject than 10 international airports encourage more competition. to restricted frequency and/ in South Africa,” she says. Nico adds that, while Oliver believes more regional charges, this is only a small or seat capacity as per the She points out that while secondary airports have gateways would provide portion of input cost when bilateral agreements. charter airlines may benefit a proven track record in increased options for flight compared with fuel and Oliver admits that, while from having more international terms of effect on market connections closer to a higher maintenance. “In a market smaller regional airports airports in South Africa, for stimulation, there are number of densely populated that is managed by bilaterals might charge lower passenger commercial scheduled airlines, many factors that affect areas. “This has to be good with limited capacity, demand charges, limited local demand half the demand for regional the outcome. “Regionally, for the South African travelling often exceeds capacity and will determine the use of flights comes from the long- bilateral regulations manage public, who will benefit from thus, natural movement of smaller aircraft with inferior haul international markets. capacity between markets more convenient departure pricing,” he comments. economies of scale to match Nico Bezuidenhout, acting while international flights are and arrival points, and Rodger Foster, ceo and md supply with demand. “With ceo of SAA, is also not unlikely to shift from existing keener airport charges, which of SA Airlink, believes the such aircraft, the costs are convinced South Africa needs infrastructure,” he says. translate into lower airfares introduction of smaller airports amortised over a smaller regional gateways. “The use A potential increase in and, in turn, more demand. will not necessarily bring down number of passengers, so of secondary airports remains airports catering for regional This would boost national and prices. “Hubs, such as OR costs, and therefore fares, will a worldwide trend, but South flights will not necessarily local economies.” Tambo, offer point-to-point remain high.” Africa’s market is relatively create an environment in Nico warns, however, that travel as well as connectivity According to Oliver, regional small and the world-class which LCCs flourish, as is the although new regional airports and bring economies of scale airports would have to offer infrastructure at our major case in Europe. Susan says: in SA may lower operating and purchasing power, which competitive charges. “They centres fulfils the majority of “To operate a sustainable costs and have a beneficial are not easily achievable at must ensure their facilities are market needs at this time.” LCC, you need the critical effect on passenger service smaller regional airports.” To page 8

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6 n Wednesday February 4 2015 QUICK READ FOR DECISION-MAKERS TNW6861SD SADC Does Southern Africa need a stronger regional network? From page 6 pushing all the cost on to chief commercial officer, says number of flights and number Rodger, however, is confident able to accommodate larger airlines bringing the footfall to currently Africa only represents of carriers, continue to close about the future. Although aircraft and they must entice the airport.” 3% of world aviation, allowing out markets to competitors. certain bilateral air services the larger aircraft operators to Despite differences in opinion for huge opportunities. He “The Yamoussoukro agreements between states start services by recognising on the need for additional believes the main hurdle for Declaration, Africa’s open remain restrictive, he sees that part of the airport revenue regional gateways, all airlines Africa is currently still the lack skies initiative, held the key to much positive progress stream must come from agree that the SADC offers of liberalisation of the skies. opening up markets. However made towards an open skies passenger revenues on-airport unparalleled potential for Nico says bilateral it remains in initial stages of environment throughout the (retail, parking), rather than growth. Richard Bodin, fastjet’s agreements governing capacity, implementation.” SADC region.

Anantara Bazaruto Island Resort & Spa. Photo: Anantara Bazaruta Island Resort & Spa Rani Resorts keeps rates down for 2015 RANI Resorts has extended free with any upgrade to a Additionally, there is a its SADC rates until Deluxe Sea View Pool Villa. partner special at both December 22 for Anantara The rate for adults is Anantara Bazaruto and Bazaruto Island Resort & US$488pp (R5 270) Anantara Medjumbe, where Spa (formerly Indigo Bay) per night, and includes partners pay only 50% of the and Anantara Medjumbe accommodation, return boat accommodation price. Island Resort & Spa, both in transfers from Vilanculos, At the Bazaruto resort, Mozambique. non-motorised activities one person will pay US$488 The group has also fixed and a daily snorkelling trip. (R5 270) per night while the its rate of exchange at The rate is also inclusive partner pays US$244pp R10,8 to US$1 until the end of breakfast, lunch and (R2 635) per night. At of June for all bookings. dinner as well as soft drinks, Medjumbe Island the rate Further good news is a bottled water, house wine, is US$472pp (R5 098) per family special at Anantara local beer and selected night for the first person and Bazaruto where two children house spirits, tea/coffee US$236pp (R2 549) per (18 and younger) can stay and mini-bar. night for the partner.

The Kingdom launches VIP wing The Kingdom at Victoria a luxury king-size bed, private express check-in, Falls, part of African Sun an enhanced bathroom a complimentary hand Hotels and Resorts, recently experience, complimentary massage, sundowners launched the King’s Club mini bar, a private balcony and snacks in the bar, a wing, an exclusive part of or an exclusive deck. fruit basket and bottle of the hotel where guests can When booking a room in sparkling wine in the room. enjoy personalised service. the King’s Club wing, A personal hostess will also The wing comprises 52 guests will also enjoy be at the guests’ beck and rooms, each of which offer return airport transfers, call during their stay. TNW6860SD

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8 n Wednesday February 4 2015 QUICK READ FOR DECISION-MAKERS TNW6361SD SADC

Cresta Riley’s Hotel. Photo: Cresta Hotels A fresh look for Botswana hotel CRESTA Riley’s Hotel, retaining its African style. popular addition to the hotel’s Skukuza Airport. Photo: Airlink situated on the banks of the Fifteen of the 51 rooms and amenities, which include a Thamakalane River in Maun, suites, all with private balcony, 24-hour reception service, Airlink launches lodge recently completed a major have been refurbished. The Internet access, swimming renovation. hotel’s two conference rooms pool and poolside bar, transfers It has been given a have also been refreshed, restaurant and the acclaimed contemporary look while and a newly built gym is a Harry’s Bar. AIRLINK is launching a “These lodge link services transfer system between will feature the lodge Skukuza, KMIA and certain destinations in the GDS with lodges. The transfer system interline connectivity and Border obstacles hinder self-drive will be timed to connect with seamless single contract SOUTH African travellers are linked to the global financial Bruce says travellers should Airlink’s scheduled flight ticketing, providing access keen self-drivers but border crisis and weakening rand, rather acquaint themselves services from Johannesburg to these destinations from obstacles can stand in the way creating an environment where with the requirements of the and Cape Town. all over the world and vice of this flourishing market. travellers who may previously borders for them to become Rodger Foster explains: versa.” Bruce Taylor, co-founder of have holidayed abroad, started more confident. “They should Sunway Safaris, says South looking for value-for-money be firm in their refusal to pay Africans are comfortable options closer to home, where their way illegally. A friendly with crossing into Swaziland, their currency goes further.” attitude and patience go a Lesotho, Namibia and Mozambique, however, is long way to easing the border Botswana, where the border more challenging, according crossings.” posts are efficient and easy. to Bruce. “I think South The Zimbabwean borders are Aulden Harlech-Jones, Africans are quite nervous of another problem, according to owner of the Cardboard Box being harassed and of being Bruce. Beit Bridge can present Travel Shop, agrees and coerced into paying bribes. delays of between four and says Namibia, in particular, Unfortunately, it is a common six hours. “This I believe is has long been popular as a mistake made by South African definitely a deterrent for South camping destination for South self-drivers to ‘throw money at Africans visiting Zimbabwe. Africans. Moreover, during the the problem’ as soon as they Several people have told last few years, he has seen are approached by anyone me they’d rather drive extra considerable growth in the looking vaguely official at a kilometres out of their way or mid- to upper-market segment. border post, or even on the even adjust their holiday plans “This seems to have been roads inside Mozambique.” to avoid Beit Bridge.” Air Zim plans new routes

Darise Foster Gm of passenger and cargo was aiming to increase its services, Peter Mukarakate, capacity in 2015 through AIR Zimbabwe is preparing to told TNW that if things went new routes and by beefing up launch domestic operations to according to plan, the airline its equipment. This includes Masvingo and Buffalo Range. could launch operations by the the reintroduction of its 150- The airline also plans to end of March. seat Airbus, which is likely launch regional routes to Zimbabwe’s Herald recently to be used on the Harare- Lusaka and Dar es Salaam. reported that Air Zimbabwe Johannesburg route.  TNW6870SD Special Offer Stay3 | Pay2 Book Now & Save up to The Victoria Falls Summer Promotion 27% ✓ Elephant Hills Resort - $180.00 single room and $110.00 per person sharing, per night ✓ The Kingdom at Victoria Falls - $180.00 single room and $110.00 per person sharing per night ✓ Hwange Safari Lodge - $130.00 single room and $83.00 per person sharing per night

Terms and conditions • Rates are applicable to new bookings only • Rates are on a bed and breakfast basis per night • The 3rd night is on a complimentary room only basis, breakfast at $30pp • Valid from 5 January to 30 April 2015 • Applicable to standard rooms • Subject to Availability For reservations: Email: [email protected] Tel: 0027100030079/81-5 Booking Code - P2S3 - REG

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10 n Wednesday February 4 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. Obituary Pick of the week Tourism industry mourns loss of brought to you by hotelier extraordinaire

Hilka Birns African tourism industry. took over the management Fedhasa Cape extends of the Matjiesfontein Intermediate Travel Consultant Senior Bookkeeper/ Personal The tourism industry has our condolences to her Hotel. (Corporate & Leisure) - CPT South Assistant – Sandton paid tribute to veteran family and a message of In 1997, Liz was named Professional Career Services Professional Career Services Matric, travel qualification, Galileo. hotelier, Liz McGrath, 91, sincere appreciation to Woman to Watch by The Books up to trial balance. 5-7 3+ yrs exp. in the industry handling years’ experience. Handle who died at her home in her colleagues and staff National Foundation for corporate & leisure. intercompany accounts, VAT, Johannesburg on Saturday for their commitment in Woman Business Owners Salary: neg based on exp. PAYE, Pastel. Running of 3 Email: [email protected] following a short illness. keeping Liz’s vision alive.” and Fortune magazine sets of books. Directors admin. Relais & Châteaux Africa Cape Town Tourism ceo, in Paris. In 2008, she Travel Advisor – Durban R16000ctc. director, Annie-Claude Enver Duminy, said: “Liz’s received The Woman of Lee Botti & Associates Email: [email protected] Bergonzoli, said: “I am passing is a loss to the the Year Award during the Join this elite club of high achievers and boast your international travel Team Leader – Cape Town proud to have worked with tourism industry and she annual Relais & Châteaux experience & passion for the Lee Botti & Associates her for so many wonderful will be fondly remembered congress, followed in 2010 industry. Rneg. Manage team of strong corporate years and look back as the first lady of tourism by the Relais & Garden Email: [email protected] consultants for national TMC. with fondness on all the in South Africa.” Trophy for the gardens at Galileo & Amadeus essential! Leisure Team Leader – JHB beautiful memories we ‘The Collection by Liz The Cellars-Hohenort. Salary R 20 000. Tourvest Travel Services Email: [email protected] shared together. Her touch McGrath’ included The Her funeral took place Meet targets. Understanding related will live on as a beacon of Plettenberg in Plettenberg on January 30 at the systems. Sell all local/regional and Senior Consultant – Oil and Gas international travel. Understand fares inspiration to present and Bay, The Marine in Rosebank Catholic Church – Rivonia and re-issues. Leadership training future hoteliers!” Hermanus and The in Johannesburg. ess. Sal R15K + Commission. Tourvest Travel Services Fedhasa Cape chairman, Cellars-Hohenort in Cape A memorial service will Email: [email protected] Process travel booking at all Rob Kucera, said: “Liz was Town, all members of be held in Cape Town levels. Shift work, Mon- Fri @06h00–12h30, 15h00-21h30, a true visionary and will be the prestigious Relais & at St. Bernard Catholic Team Leader – Western Cape Equity Connections cc 16h00-22h30 and 22h30–06h00 missed for her passionate Châteaux group. In 2013 Church in Newlands at Lead strong corporate team, prepare from home. support of the South she also upgraded and 14h30 on February 3. reports, work within budgets, liaise Email: [email protected] with clients. Minimum six years in similar role essential. Sales Manager - North Email: [email protected] Equity Connections cc Appointments Identify, target, close business Account Manager – Bloemfontein deals with corporate companies.  Following the Vacancy for Flight Centre Business Travel Must be strong negotiator with SA citizen or permanent residence. appointment of extensive knowledge of 2 years’ experience as intermediate/ Andrew Stark Administrative Assistant senior consulting role. Basic, lucrative MICE Industry. as md of Flight Email: [email protected] Position Description: commission structure, medical aid Centre South The appointed candidate will be expected to handle the day to day and provident fund. Email: Africa, Marieke [email protected] Travel Expert – JHB office operations including procurement, filing, negotiating, accounts, Flight Centre Tucker will take flight/hotel reservations and other administrative duties. Additional Senior Corporate Consultant – SA citizen or permanent over the running of the retail assistance by the marketing department may be requested as and when Sandton residence. 2 years’ experience business, spending the next needed. Wendy’s Travel Personnel as intermediate/senior consulting Become part of a progressive, five months working directly Basic Requirements: role. Basic, lucrative commission successful team utilising your structure, medical aid and with Andrew to ensure • 3 years relevant administration experience corporate consulting skills - • Matric certificate provident fund. Email: Lauren. a seamless transition. Galileo essential! [email protected] Marieke previously oversaw • Certificate/Diploma in Business Management. Email: [email protected] • Sales/Marketing experience (not compulsory) Assistant GM - Namibia the business travel division • Strong written and verbal communication skills VIP Consultant – Johannesburg of Flight Centre SA with • Well versed in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Power Point) CBD Infusion Consulting responsibility for the vision and • Police clearance (as per Malaysian government regulation) Infusion Consulting Leading hotel seeks an Assistant GM. 3+ years’ hotel management, goals of the brand nationally. Application Deadline: 20th February 2015 Top senior to handle complex bookings and all travel related duties rooms division & front office Commencement: Immediately She has also served in a for VIP’s & EXCO’s. GDS: Galileo. CTC: experience. English + German number of roles within Flight Should you meet the required criteria, kindly forward your resume in word R30KPM neg. adv. MS Office/OPERA. Centre, including area leader format (1 document with certificates included) to [email protected] Email: [email protected] Email: [email protected] travel associates and niche brand leader, overseeing If you do not receive a response Student Flights, Cruiseabout within 14 days from date of These adverts were selected from the vacancy application, please consider your section of and Flight Centre Business application to be unsuccessful. www.travelinfo.co.za For more details contact Travel. [email protected] TNW7288 TNW6872SD  Luxury hotel Taj Cape Town has appointed Belinda Morrison as leisure sales Top jobs in Gauteng this week: manager and BUSINESS DEV MNGR Kevin Rowlands Jhb. Love to work independently? Award winning TO seeks your corp sales as banqueting & mngm skills! Sal R45 000 neg. manger. Belinda SALES TEAM LEADER was previously North. Deal with high-end clients! Int’l co seeks the key account your sales & leadership skills. Sal R25 000 neg. manager for Sun SALES EXEC International North. Work in an energetic, vibey environment for five years. She has also with like-minded people! Showcase your proven worked for the Zambezi Queen sales skills with winning TMC. Sal R23 000 neg. Promote your business and Green Route Africa. Kevin SNR CORP CONS was previously the banqueting North. Work closer to home! Take this winning team to new heights with your Amadeus skills. in our Luxury Travel Feature! manager at The Westin Cape Sal R21 000 neg. Booking Deadline: 18 February 2015 Town. He also worked for For enquiries please contact Fairmont Zimbali Resort and Tel: Cornelia / Kim 011 452 0204 [email protected] [email protected] | Tel: +27 11 214 7334 Crystal Cruises. TNW7287 TNW7289

QUICK READ FOR busiest people Wednesday February 4 2015 n 11 TNW NEWS

Learn More, Sell More! Look at our latest workshop Visit: www.travelinfo.co.za Fuel surcharges begin to fall Holiday Tours… Dorine Reinstein but have not revealed further the fuel price comes down, providing your clients the best details. hedging is the talking point.” vacation offers with a IRLINES have begun Adrian Hamilton-Manns, value-for-money experience slashing fuel surcharges SA carriers ceo of flyafrica.com, agrees Aas pressure mounts Asata ceo, Otto De Vries, says that many airlines will happily from governments to drop he would like to encourage increase charges and hide Win a Samsung Galaxy Tab3 T110! these charges due to lower oil airline partners to pass these as ‘fuel costs’. “They prices, but that doesn’t mean reduced surcharges on to usually argue that they never Simply complete customers will necessarily see their passengers. “We will be fully recover the fuel increase the online workshop cheaper tickets as carriers examining the issue in greater so this is, therefore, not are likely to bump up fares to detail with our members over gouging the customer.” maintain margins. the coming weeks to establish It is not possible to it’s all about the experience Qantas has restructured what, if any, moves to reduce generalise as airlines hedge its international tariffs to cut the fuel surcharge price have at different times and when fuel surcharges and absorb been taken in the SA market.” fuel prices are at different the impact by raising the But in South Africa, the levels, says June Crawford, base fare. This comes after situation remains unchanged ceo of Barsa. She adds that the Australian Competition with local carriers saying regulatory authorities should, and Consumer Commission hedging deals combined with a therefore, not get involved. began investigating the high weak rate of exchange make it Linden Birns, md of Plane fuel surcharges Qantas was nearly impossible to drop the Talking, says: “Each airline has imposing on international fuel levy. its own fuel hedging strategy, flights, despite falling oil “The rand price of jet fuel factoring in what portions TNW7284 prices. remains volatile and has or percentages of their The Philippines government not seen as significant an immediate, short-, near- and has also ruled that fuel improvement as the oil price long-term fuel requirements surcharges could no longer alone would suggest. Despite are hedged at what price floors be applied in light of the the fall in the oil price, the and for what point in time. recent drop in jet fuel prices. current rand price of jet fuel at The dilemma is the same Both Philippine Airlines (PAL) R7,50 does not provide scope as determining when to sell and Cebu Pacific were forced for any significant reduction in shares and take profits in a to comply with the new fares,” says Comair ceo, Erik top-performing listed company regulation. In the UK, chief Venter. He says around 30% on the stock exchange.” secretary to the treasury, of Comair’s fuel is hedged Also, the oil price may begin Mauritius is tops with travellers Danny Alexander, has written at above the current fuel to rise again, and airlines to major UK airlines calling price. “One also has to guard should take a cautious Demand for travel into neighbouring states is growing, with for them to pass on fuel price against benchmarking fares approach in considering drops more airlines connecting the regional dots across Southern savings to consumers. against pre-2011 prices.” in the surcharge, says Chris Africa. To which of these destinations are you seeing an Meanwhile, Malaysia-based Jonathan Gerber, director of Zweigenthal, ceo of Aasa. “I increase in demand? AirAsia has scrapped the fuel TAG, believes hedging is an think that by the second half surcharge on all its airlines. excuse airlines use, saying of 2015 we will see the oil 50 Emirates, Japan Airlines, Qatar carriers were happy to keep price trending back towards Airways, Cathay Pacific Airways raising their fuel surcharges US$100 a barrel levels. Oil and Virgin Atlantic said they and make a profit when the producers can’t be happy with 40 would consider reductions oil price was high. “Now as these low levels.”  31% 30 SAA bail out ‘not just’ 20 17% 15% Dorine Reinstein government guarantee (Ethiopian, EgyptAir and Kenya awarded to SAA in early 2013 Airways), Rodger says. “SAA 9% 10 8% COMAIR has reacted to is still pending should accept its new market 5% 5% 5% 5% the news that Treasury has Rodger Foster, ceo of Airlink, landscape for what it is and approved a further R6,5bn empathises with the view that look for the opportunities 0 bail out to SAA, saying the the new guarantee skewed rather than resist and counter continuous guarantees to the the market and inhibited the the threat. SAA will need to national carrier are creating development of private-sector pay careful attention to the Angola Zambia Namibia Tanzania

Mauritius an uneven playing field in the participants, but adds: “For the re-engineering of its business Botswana Zimbabwe Seychelles domestic market. The total time being the South African to identify its new sustainable Mozambique guarantees granted to the economy depends on the business based on a suitable airline sit now at R14,4bn. national carrier, with the caveat and invulnerable network and “Comair has taken note of that it should be a viable and schedule that may be quite the R6,5bn guarantee granted self-sustainable business.” different from what it does to SAA and does not believe SAA is confronted by serious today. SAA can be fixed, it to be just nor in the best challenges given how travel and by all indications the interest of the SA taxpayer and patterns have changed government, as the the domestic airline industry,” because of the proliferation shareholder, and management the airline said in a statement. of airline hubs in the Middle are working extremely seriously The High Court legal East (Emirates, Turkish, on an achievable turnaround challenge to the R5bn Etihad and Qatar) and Africa for SAA.”  TNW7067

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