December 17/24 2014 I No. 2331 Southern Africa’s Travel News Weekly

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NEWS News Feature Indian Visas Price Steering Madagascar 72-hour visas but not for SA, yet OTAs charge some clients more than others 10 reasons to visit

INSIDE Page 2 Page 4 Page 10 Nico sets bar high for action plan

Natasha Schmidt and requires an extension of the guarantee by government. This “ OME March 24, you need includes the immediate review to call and ask me: what and reconfiguration of loss-making Croutes have you stopped routes such as Beijing, Hong Kong operating that have historically and Mumbai. The airline recently lost SAA money? What governance strengthened ties with Star Alliance interventions have you effected? partner, Air China, which – within Has an AGM been held and SAA’s the next few months – will see financial statements for the year more points through which SAA can ending 2014 been issued? Have service the Chinese market. Light it up! you managed to effect changes to With regard to an equity partner, your fleet composition? And have Nico said what the company needed The City of Ekurhuleni and Emperors Palace are once again hosting you put options on the table for your was not a purist equity partner the Garden of Lights, a festive range of colourful light displays, from shareholder in terms of a strategic but a strategic one that could not December 5 to January 4. This year, the display includes Happyland, equity partnership?” only offer a capital injection into a fun-fair featuring family rides and a Ferris wheel (R10 per person the business but also come to the per ride). Entrance to the Garden of Lights is free. There are collection “Etihad is well known to table with management skills and areas where visitors can place donated toys for the Reach for a Dream expertise to help put SAA back on charity. Feeling festive are Emperors Palace marketing manager, Lebo take minority stakes in track. Mokwena (centre), flanked by dancers Simone Kruger (left) and various entities and that “Etihad is well known to take Aobakwe Moroeng (right). Photo: Shannon Van Zyl minority stakes in various entities option would be available and that option would be available to Etihad.” to Etihad,” Nico said. He added that he, at this point, would not want Southern Africa on route map of This is from SAA’s acting ceo, to talk on Etihad’s behalf of intent Nico Bezuidenhout, who in a media expressed but that the airlines Lufthansa’s LCC briefing early this month detailed were looking to strengthen their the airline group’s 90-day “rapid commercial ties. Hilka Birns and short-haul ones in Europe would implementation plan” to put the Other steps in the 90-Day Action operate from Cologne, where the airline group back on track to Plan include a substantial focus LUFTHANSA’s low-cost subsidiary, New Eurowings would be based. It achieve its Long-Term Turnaround on governance failures within New Eurowings, will fly to leisure will initially use a fleet of three A330- Strategy, with critical short-term the business, a review of all destinations in Southern Africa and 200s with 310 seats, expanding to goals to realise R1,3bn in annual contractual burdens, reorganisation the Indian Ocean Islands from the seven A330-200s over the next few savings. and optimisation of assets, and end of next year, according to Axel years. The first and most critical step of improved communication. Simon, director Southern Africa of The first long-haul route will be to the rescue plan was to address the “In the past you’ve heard about Lufthansa and SWISS International Tampa, Florida, which will launch in airline’s liquidity position, on-going the many plans that SAA has had Air Lines – but he would not say October. New Eurowings’ long-haul solvency and medium-term funding over the years. This is more about which. services will operate under the air requirements, Nico said. SAA is action and delivery and less about a Speaking at a media operator certificate of SunExpress relying on state-guaranteed loans plan and strategy,” Nico said.  briefing, he said the long-haul flights To page 12 Season’s Greetings! TNW wishes all its readers a joyful festive season and a peaceful and prosperous New Year. Now Media’s offices close on December 12 and reopen on January 5, 2015.

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To the point

The Tunisian embassy in Pretoria has confirmed that South African passport holders no longer require a visa to enter Tunisia for a stay of up to 90 days. Travellers were previously required to apply for a visa prior to arrival at a cost of R600. As of December 1, all that is required for entry into the country is a valid passport. Refer to Travelinfo for more details.

Twice the fun!

TNW6833SD Cape Town International Airport sees international airlines bring back seasonal flights in time for the peak period. For the SA summer – until April 2015 – British Airways has ® increased its daily flights between Cape Town and London Heathrow to double daily. Rubes By Leigh Rubin This is up from 10 flights in the winter season. Pictured here are Ed Frost, BA regional commercial manager East and Southern Africa and Sue Botes, BA commercial manager Southern Africa. Photo: Shannon Van Zyl India launches ‘72-hour’ e-visa

Dorine Reinstein is valid for entry in nine the new e-visa. He said these airports: Delhi, Mumbai, decisions were in the hands of NDIA has launched an e-visa Chennai, Kolkata, Bengaluru, the Ministry of Home Affairs. for visitors from 43 countries, Kochi, Thiruvananthapuram, The new visa system is Iwhich it will roll out to other Hyderabad and Goa. available for the following countries in different phases. The e-visa is aimed at passport holders: Australia, is currently tourists travelling to India for Brazil, Cambodia, Cook excluded. “recreation, sightseeing, short Islands, Djibouti, Fiji, Finland, Applications must be made duration medical treatment, Germany, Indonesia, Israel, online at least four days prior a casual business visit or Japan, Jordan, , Kiribati, to departure. Travellers must casual visit to meet friends or Laos, Luxembourg, Marshall submit a photograph, a scan relatives” for only 30 days or Islands, Mauritius, Mexico, of the passport’s photo page less. Travellers can apply for Micronesia, Myanmar, and a non-refundable US$60 the e-visa only twice a year. Nauru, New Zealand, Niue (R689) visa fee. Manas Ranjan Pattanaik, Island, Norway, , Palau, Within 72 hours, travellers director of India Tourism in Palestine, Papua New Guinea, will be notified whether South Africa, told TNW that Philippines, Republic of Korea, their application has been the new system would be Russia, Samoa, Singapore, successful. If successful, implemented in stages and he Solomon Islands, Thailand, they will receive an ‘Electronic hoped South Africa would soon Tonga, Tuvalu, UAE, Ukraine, Travel Authorisation’ that also be able to benefit from USA, Vanuatu and Vietnam. 

Founding Editors: John H Marsh (1914-1996) Leona Marsh (1923-2003) Dark days for domestic tourism EDITORIAL TRAVEL NEWS WEEKLY Group Editor: Natasha Schmidt [email protected] Dorine Reinstein able to offer guests a full generators is incredibly Deputy Editor: Bruce Dennill [email protected] www.etnw.co.za hot breakfast. He says expensive and eats into Features Editor: Michelle Colman [email protected] Published by Contributors: DOMESTIC tourism is the electric gates at the the budget of the business. Travel & Trade Publishing (Pty) Ltd Debbie Badham Max Marx expected to be affected guesthouses are also an He adds that The Oyster Printed by Juka Printing (Pty) Ltd Hilka Birns Caro Malherbe by load shedding over the issue. Box also operates on Phone: (011) 327-4062 Dorine Reinstein December and January Donovan Muirhead, green principles. “Using a Fax: (011) 327-4094 Photographer: Shannon Van Zyl holidays, putting a big chairman of the National generator is not good for E-mail: [email protected] Production Editor: Ann Braun Web: www.nowmedia.co.za strain on hospitality Accommodation Association the carbon footprint, which Publisher Address: Now Media Centre, establishments. of South Africa, says guests concerns us enormously. Kate Nathan [email protected] 32 Fricker Road, Illovo Boulevard, Smaller hospitality are further inconvenienced It’s noisy, which doesn’t Illovo, Johannesburg. Group Publisher establishments in particular as local attractions, enhance the guest PO Box 55251, Northlands, David Marsh [email protected] 2116, South Africa. are seriously affected as restaurants and shopping experience. Also, when the ADVERTISING they don’t have access to a malls are also affected. electricity comes back on, Sales: [email protected] Advertising Co-ordinator: generator or back-up facility. Although larger the surge often causes Courtney Canham [email protected] Chris von Ulmenstein, establishments have electrical equipment and PRODUCTION owner of the Whale Cottage generators in place, appliances to blow, which Design Head: Portfolio in Cape Town, says minimising disruptions, is inconvenient and can be Dirk Voorneveld load shedding happens they are also experiencing expensive for travellers, Subscriptions in the morning and guest difficulties. Wayne Coetzer, who sometimes have to Circulation [email protected] houses in gm of The Oyster Box replace their electrical and Franschhoek aren’t in Durban, says running items.” 

2 n Wednesday December 17/24 2014 QUICK READ FOR DECISION-MAKERS TNW6813SD NEWS OTAs accused of price steering

Dorine Reinstein prices, which means the Northeastern University based on a user’s history with more inconvenient OTA tailors the order of found that of clicks and purchases. itineraries. “We manipulate EVERAL major online search results so that modified prices for Users who clicked on or our inventory according to travel agencies are some customers will consumers who used Apple reserved low-price hotel what people want to buy. Susing web analytics see the more expensive mobile devices to search rooms received slightly Is the client travelling with to steer prices and engage options first. For example, for hotel rooms compared different results in a kids? Then connections in price discrimination, steered Apple with other devices. Keith different order, compared are likely to be important. charging some clients Mac OS X users towards says the truth is that with users who clicked Is the client young and thousands of rands more more expensive hotels when customers come on or reserved expensive single? Then price is more than others for the same in selected locations by hotel rooms or clicked on likely to be the determining hotel or itinerary. placing them at higher “We don’t engage in nothing. “Because the factor.” This is according to a ranks in the search results. different orders did not Otto de Vries, ceo of recent study, Measuring Traditional travel agents price discrimination correlate with prices, this Asata, says that Big Data Price Discrimination and in the US have used the and steering to make wasn’t considered price is not just about buying Steering on e-commerce highly publicised study steering,” he said. patterns. “Sometimes we websites, from Boston to promote the value of an expanded profit but Andy Hedley, operations buy differently for different Northeastern University. using agents. In a recent to present the options director of Travelstart reasons. For example, you Researchers conducted press release about the the client is most likely in South Africa, admits may apply business travel searches on 16 Northeastern University that OTAs practise price policy when you’re travelling e-commerce sites, including study, CookTravel.net to buy.” steering but that they for corporate reasons but those of six travel sellers–– agent Fabrizio Peralta don’t engage in price not when you’re travelling Cheaptickets, , said: “Algorithms act on to Travelocity on any discrimination and steering for personal reasons. Hotels.com, Orbitz, mathematical impulse recognised mobile device, to make an expanded profit That is where the role of Priceline, and Travelocity. but live agents act on the they will often see a but to present the options the travel agent emerges: Cheaptickets was individual needs of their handful of hotels listed the client is most likely to recognise the clients’ found to implement price clients – and the price as ‘Mobile Exclusives’, to buy. needs and preferences and discrimination by offering doesn’t change, no matter which will not appear when He says clients directed offer suitable solutions. reduced prices on hotels to who you are.” visiting the desktop site. to the website via meta- “Our service is customer- members who sign up free Keith Novak, A spokesperson for search engines are most driven and not a one-size- with their email addresses Travelocity’s director of Priceline.com told TNW likely to be very price- fits-all approach based on or through their Facebook communications, adds it did not price steer conscious so Travelstart the data that has been profiles. that the study is flawed. its customers but will present the lowest generated by certain Orbitz was found to steer He says researchers at personalised search results prices, which often come patterns.” 

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4 n Wednesday December 17/24 2014 QUICK READ FOR DECISION-MAKERS TNW6848SD NEWS AirHeads A snapshot of the week's airline news

Two Kenyan airlines join Sabre TRAVEL agents can now shop and book Five Forty Aviation (Fly540) and East African Safari Air (Fly-SAX) fares via Sabre. Both Kenyan low-cost airlines, which are based in Nairobi, have signed multi-year technology agreements with Sabre, making their content available on the GDS. Dean Bibb, vp of Sabre Travel Network for Eastern Europe, Middle East and Africa, said: “Africa is poised for rapid growth and development in the coming years and Sabre is eager to support this by providing our airline partners with the latest technology to expand their reach and brand awareness with leisure and corporate travel agencies around the world.” Five Forty Aviation operates under the code 5H and East African Safari Air, B5.

At the launch event of The Capital are (from left): Rumbidzai Munhuwani (American Express Emirates to go double daily to DAR Travel Services SA); Abigail Ngubeni (Cummins Inc); and Mukondeleli Mudau (Cummins Inc). EMIRATES will operate a double-daily service from Dubai to Dar es Salaam from January 1. The airline currently operates 12 flights a week on the route. “Our move to a double daily shows the EAH rebrands and expands importance of as a key tourism and business market,” said Orhan Abbas, Emirates senior vp of Commercial Operations, Latin AH Executive Apartments for safe and cost-effective frills’ product that delivered and Hotels has rebranded accommodation that would real value to business America, Central and Southern Africa. The second daily service will Eto The Capital. The directly address the needs of travellers.” be operated with an A330-200 with 12 seats in first class, 42 in hospitality group is poised for the ever-growing number of The Capital’s ambition is to business class and 183 in economy class. significant expansion, set to blue chip and multi-national have 17 properties by 2018. grow its properties from six firms basing themselves in “We’re working towards that Etihad expands Alitalia codeshare to 17. Gauteng’s bustling Sandton goal and the rebrand is one ETIHAD Airways and Alitalia recently signed a major codeshare Its current portfolio consists business district. step in that direction. We expansion that, subject to government approval, will result in Etihad of six properties in Sandton “This growing demand, need a strong foundation as a Airways placing its EY code on Alitalia’s new daily service between and future properties will be coupled with a state of business so that when we add Venice and Abu Dhabi. The flights launch on March 29. In addition, located in capital cities in and economy dictating that hotels, we’re able to plug them the code will be placed on Alitalia’s daily service between Abu Dhabi around South Africa and the company travel expenditure be into a strong brand that the sub-Saharan market. more closely monitored, meant market recognises in locations and Milan, which launches on the same day. The flights will combine The Capital md, Marc that executive apartments like Cape Town, Pretoria, with Etihad Airways’ existing daily service for double-daily frequency. Wachsberger, says: “We presented a more affordable Gaborone, Windhoek and identified an increasing need alternative: a quality but ‘no ,” Marc concludes.  Air Canada expands new seating offering AIR Canada has added two new Boeing 777-300ERs to its wide- body fleet and will expand the introduction of its new international WTM Africa grows show for next year business-class product to include all B777-300ER aircraft. It will also reconfigure the aircraft to include its new premium Tessa Reed was both an inbound and meet with hosted buyers economy-cabin. Air Canada’s three-cabin international product outbound show. “There is no as well as members of the and seating standard will be extended to its 25 B777-300ERs A THIRD day has been other show in South Africa WTM Buyers’ Club for a few added to World Travel that has your inbound and minutes. These five-minute and B777-200LRs, consistent with seating on its new B787-8 Market (WTM) Africa outbound buyer,” she said. sessions would allow buyers and -9 Dreamliner fleet. The fleet of eight A330-300s will also be 2015. Next year’s show She added that domestic and exhibitors to gauge reconfigured with a premium economy cabin. The economy- and will be attended by 250 retail agents and corporate compatibility and schedule business-class cabins of its A330-300 fleet will be unchanged. hosted buyers, Reed Travel travel buyers would also be an appointment during the Conversion of the B777s and A330s is planned to begin in the Exhibitions has announced. in attendance. show if they wished, she fourth quarter of 2015 and is expected to be completed by the Sheree Simpson, gm of According to Sheree, the said. second half of 2016. Air Canada’s new international product will WTM Africa at Thebe Reed show will feature three WTM Africa 2015 will take offer 180-degree lie-flat seats in business class, and up to 30 lie- Exhibitions, told members speed networking sessions, place from April 15-17 as flat executive pods on its B787-8 and -9 aircraft and 40 on B777- of the industry at an event prior to the opening of the part of Africa Travel Week at in Johannesburg that WTM show, where exhibitors will the Cape Town International 300ER and 200LRs. Africa was unique in that it have the opportunity to Convention Centre. 

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6 n Wednesday December 17/24 2014 QUICK READ FOR DECISION-MAKERS NEWS More adventure with Trafalgar Dubai readies for bumper cruise season UBAI Cruise Tourism, ambitious growth targets for part of Dubai Tourism, cruise as part of our Dubai Dis expecting a Tourism Vision for 2020 as bumper cruise season we aim to become the world’s with the opening of the leading destination for family new 27 000-sqm terminal tourism. We believe there is at Mina Rashid and the an opportunity to grow intra- implementation of a multiple- regional cruise tourism with entry visa for cruise tourists. our Gulf Community Council A total of 110 cruise ships neighbours.” carrying more than 381 000 Tourists who require entry passengers will arrive over into multiple UAE ports – for the next seven months. example Abu Dhabi, Dubai Passenger numbers are set and Khorfakkan – can apply to be 19% higher than the for the new visa through their previous season. cruise line, either at the time Trafalgar has launched ‘Hidden Journeys’, an extension of its Insider Experiences Hamad bin Mejren, of or after booking. The visa concept. Hidden Journeys is designed to take smaller groups deeper into certain executive director of Dubai is valid for 60 days from destinations. The 11 different options will have no more than 26 travellers on each Tourism, said: “We are set to the date of issue to the first departure. Destinations will include Italy, France, Ireland, Switzerland, Greece, , record significant growth in entry into UAE. After the first Newfoundland, Panama, Japan and China. Looking like Greek goddesses are (from ship calls and in passenger entry, the visa remains valid left) Trafalgar’s: LeeAnne Moses (reservations consultant), Lauren Blaine (area sales numbers. We have set for 30 days.  manager) and Chantelle Nepgen (area sales manager). Photo: Shannon Van Zyl Ethiopian to codeshare with All Nippon Airways ETHIOPIAN Airlines (ET) has effective October 26. destinations in Africa through London on codeshared flights. 2011. Customers of both announced a codeshare Travellers can make joint connecting airports of Both Star Alliance members airlines will continue to be able agreement with Japan’s All seamless bookings on ANA both carriers in Bangkok, Hong have had a joint frequent flyer to earn and redeem miles on Nippon Airways (ANA), and ET from Japan to 49 Kong, Frankfurt, Paris and programme since December all flights. 

XL Travel Group celebrate The beach at Nungwi was ‘taken over’ by XL Travel for 10 year anniversary Zanzibar style a Sunset Dhow Cruise followed by a beach braai for delegates The XL Travel Group celebrated its 10th year anniversary Allan Wolman and Mary Shilleto acknowledge XL in style with a members conference in Zanzibar at the Travel preferred partners attending the conference amazing Hideaway of Nungwi Resort & Spa. A Leading A 10th Year Anniversary Cake was one of many surprises Hotel of the World, Hideaway of Nungwi hosted 140 in a Gala Evening marking achievements of XL Travel members performance members and suppliers over the weekend of 25th The XL Travel Board (from L to R : Allan Wolman, October. Although an anniversary celebration the Marco Ciocchetti, Rod Rutter, Dudley Randall, Mary conference was themed, ‘One Vision, One Journey, Shilleto and Brian Singer) take a pause during the Together’ and an agenda packed with high profile conference plenary session speakers including Patrick Holford, Daniel Silke, Vusi Thembekwayo and Lynn Baker gave valuable business coaching to delegates. Themed events during the conference included a Dhow Cruise, a Masai evening full of dancing, music and authentic food and a Gala 10th Year Anniversary Awards Dinner set in the beautiful gardens under the stars where individuals and offices within the XL Travel Group were recognised for significant achievements over the past twelve months. Troye the Hypnotist provided a fun-filled hour of mesmerizing laughter and antics with willing volunteers from the delegation. It was a Gala Night of Awards and Anniversary Celebrations which will live long in the memory of delegates who had the privilege of attending an amazing evening in one of the most idyllic settings in Zanzibar.

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QUICK READ FOR busiest people Wednesday December 17/24 2014 n 7 PillowTalk A brief look at this week's hotel news

BON acquires Midrand hotel AS OF December 1, BON Hotels has taken ownership and management of the 49-room Hotel in Midrand, soon Guests can get up close to the Big 5 on a walking safari. Photo: Legacy Hotels to be renamed BON Hotel Midrand. The hotel is BON’s second property in Gauteng. It will undergo minor refurbishments, upgrades and in-house training with an immediate emphasis on Bakubung launches bush walks improving the food and beverage offering. Each of the 49 rooms overlooks the pool and surrounding property. There are three Bakubung Bush Lodge in Pilanesberg National Park now offers walking safaris for its conference venues, seating up to 400 guests. Guy Stehlik, ceo guests. TNW’s Vincent Schaffler, who experienced the new offering, reports. of BON Hotels, said: “The hotel will very definitely be way above the typical three-star standard and along with the new gm, AKUBUNG’s new of up to eight guests. It’s an 15 metres away. All rangers Dean Gilder, the hotel is on its way to renewed popularity as a guided walking safaris early start for guests who carry rifles and are extremely venue of choice for the corporate and conference markets.” Btake guests through depart at around 05h00. knowledgeable about the the Pilanesberg bushveld, Walking through the bush park’s flora and fauna. Legacy ends agreement with airport hotel allowing them to experience at this time provides great The walk is around four to Africa’s Big Five up close opportunities to spot animals five hours and about three LEGACY Hotels & Resorts’ franchise agreement with The Airport as well as learn about the returning from nightly foraging hours into the walk, the Grand Hotel & Conference Centre in Boksburg ends on January geology, wildlife and plant-life and hunting. ranger will find a vantage 31, after which the hotel will no longer form part of the Legacy of the region. It’s not uncommon for point to view the park and portfolio. Bookings in place prior to this date will not be Walking safaris are done guests to experience a herd enjoy the breakfast pack affected. All future enquiries and bookings should be directed on a request basis in groups of elephants or a rhino just provided by the lodge.  to the hotel on 011 823 1843. Swaziland Tourism appoints GSA LLOYD Orr Communications destination of choice for South on the doorstep of most has been awarded the account Africans to visit for leisure or South Africans. Our aim for the Swaziland Tourism business purposes. is to welcome more of our Authority with the primary Eric Maseko, ceo of STA neighbours and to showcase objective of assisting in raising said: “Swaziland has so to them all the experiences we the profile of Swaziland as a much to offer and it is right know will appeal to them.”  Branson adds Virgin Cruises to travel offering SIR Richard Branson plans to cruises the initial focus. more choice, great service, add Virgin Cruises to the travel “We plan to shake up the and the sense of fun and options already available under cruise industry and deliver a adventure associated with the Virgin brand. The venture, holiday that customers will Virgin’ and that the cruise to be launched with two new absolutely love,” said Richard. sector of the business ships, will be based in the A Virgin statement said the would work closely with its Miami and Fort Lauderdale ships would be ‘brand new, established airline and tour area, with Caribbean offer exciting new activities, operator set-ups. 

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8 n Wednesday December 17/24 2014 QUICK READ FOR DECISION-MAKERS 6 Ankarana Features include huge natural treasures. Ankarana limestone rock formations. National Park is 80km The Tsingy Rary, Bat Cave, from Diego Suarez (a two- or Green Lake tours, from hour drive) and 20km from one to several days’ walk, Ambilobe (a 45-minute drive) let hikers discover one on the RN6. The park is of Madagascar’s richest accessible all year round.

7 Nosy Tanikely 10 reasons This small island, species, seven of which surrounded by a marine are endemic. The park is reserve, is covered surrounded by reefs and to visit Madagascar in secondary forest sandy beaches. vegetation. There are Access is by boat from Madagascar’s national parks, many of which are home to species found nowhere 11 reptile and 13 bird the island of Nosy Be only. else in the world, are a major draw card for visitors who are looking for a unique wilderness experience. Bruce Dennill reports.

1 Tsingy de Bemaraha Masoala is the largest complex of protected areas in Madagascar, comprising four plots of land and three marine sites around the Masoala Peninsula. Masoala National Park and Nosy Mangabe Special Reserve – dedicated to protecting the rare Aye- Aye lemur – are the major attractions. Masoala is a 90-minute flight from Antananarivo Andringitra. Photo: Michael Sale, flickr and a 45-minute flight or 12-hour cruise from Toamasina. Tsingy de Bemaraha. Photo: Ralph Kranzlein, Flickr 8 Andringitra This national park has the tree endemic to the region. highest accessible peak in From Antananarivo to 2 Mananara-Nord Biosphere Madagascar – Body Peak Andringitra, take the RN7 as (2 658m). It has a rich wildlife far as Ambalavao (462km, This area includes a national In the marine park, there 11 bird species. offering: 54 mammal species, a 12- to 14-hour drive) and park and a marine park. are seven species of Air Madagascar flies 14 lemur, 50 reptile and more then take a 50km track (two There are 12 lemur, 16 mangroves, 32 algae, 132 from Antananarivo (a than 100 birds. There are also hours) from Ambalavao to rodent, 77 forest bird, 85 cnidarians, 64 mollusc, 90-minute flight) and over a thousand plant species, Ambalamanandray, the village amphibian and 59 reptile 16 arthropod, 32 Toamasina (45 minutes), including orchids and a palm closest to the park entrance. species, and 1 200 endemic echinoderm, 179 fish, three and the area can also be vascular plants and palm marine mammal, three accessed by boat from trees. aquatic reptile and Toamasina (12 hours). 9 Tsingy de Namoroka Visitors can enjoy this park the rare Angonoky tortoise. 3 Zahamena via a guided tour or by light Namoroka is difficult to aircraft. Namoroka is rich in access by land. A ferry across This park is home to Ankosy-Bemoara and Ambatondrazaka and east flora and fauna and has 218 Bombetoka Bay to Katsepy is 112 species of birds, 29 Bemoara-Cascade tours are of Lake Alaotra. Guests plant species. Animals include a better option. fish, 62 amphibian, 46 informative ways to explore travel to the village of reptile and 48 mammal the park. Antanandava and then species, including the The park is 70km walk 8km to the park Indri (a large lemur). The north-east of entrance. 10 Masoala One of the first places in Madagascar to be listed as a World Heritage Site, 4 Ranomafana this park offers a number Blanketed in an evergreen golden bamboo lemur is the Fianarantsoa and 139km from of varied habitats and a rainforest, Ranomafana also park's main attraction. Mananjary. The RN45 highway wealth of wildlife and flora, features an extinct volcano Ranomafana is 412km and its extension, the RN25, including 11 lemur species, that produces hot springs southeast of Antananarivo, run through the park, allowing 50 reptile and 430 plant (good for rheumatism). The 65km northeast of access on good paved roads. species. Tsingy de Bemaraha is 180km north of Morondava, an eight- to 5 Sahamalaza ten-hour journey that includes Baobab Avenue Comprising three major species. In the marine area, far as Maromandia and a ferry across the ecosystems – marine, there are 218 types of coral (750km from Antananarivo). Tsiribihina River. coastal and forest – this and invertebrates and 168 By boat, the reserve can be For more information on park has 220 plant species, species of fish. reached from Analalava and Madagascar Tourism, visit Masoala National Park. nine lemur, 41 bird, 20 The RN6 road to Nosy Be (both three-hour Travelinfo.  Photo: Frank Vassen, Flickr reptile and 14 amphibian Antsiranana is paved as crossings).

QUICK READ FOR busiest people Wednesday December 17/24 2014 n 9 COMMUNITYNEWS

Michelle’s a winner

Michelle Bergset recently won Top Regional Manager RwandAir awards agents for 2014 and the Cape won top and most profitable region for the first time in Pentravel’s history. MIchelle RwandAir recently celebrated its top-performing travel agent partners, with Leon Smith was the Cape regional manager in charge of all the of Club Travel in Ontdekkers Rd, Johannesburg, being named Rwandair’s top agent for eight Cape Town shops and has since been promoted 2014. Pictured here are, from left: Matthew Simpson (group marketing manager of to national sales manager of Pentravel. She is pictured Holiday Aviation, RwandAir’s gsa); Sarah-Jane Middlemas (marketing manager Holiday here with awards event MC, Michael Mol (left) and Aviation); Dennis Rwiliriza (RwandAir country manager for SA); Greg Fuller (gm of Pentravel ceo, Sean Hough. Holiday Aviation) and Leon.

Repeat This month, United and Air Canada performance hosted a function At the recent XL Conference in Zanzibar, at the Inanda Club Brian Singer was awarded ‘XL Group in Johannesburg Brand Ambassador 2014’ – the second to thank SA travel time he has received the accolade. agents for their Brian, a director of the Singer Group, is business. One of one of the founders of XL Travel and is the top supporters also a board member of the travel group. was Rennies Sasol. Pictured here are travel managers, Felicia Cornellissen (front, left) and Portia Sekhwela (back, middle) with the Development Promotions team, Jackie Adami (back, left); Jane Davidson (back, right) and Shelley Phillips JOB DESCRIPTION Top supporters (front, right). Sales Manager Photo: Natasha Schmidt. If you are motivated, persistent, flexible, have sales management, travel and retail experience and have travelled internationally, we would love you to join our vibrant Imagine team as a sales team leader for our Stuttafords Travel Lounges. Skills required: • Proven track record in delivering results • Knowledge of sales process. • Ability to motivate, inspire and develop others • Flexible, resourceful approach • Clear focus on high quality and business profit • A natural forward planner Golf for a good cause • Travel, retail sales and sales management The 10th annual Club Travel JDI Golf Day was held at Westlake Golf Course in Cape Town experience recently. The beneficiary of the fundraising event was the -based organisation, Waves for Change. Its aim is to turn previously disused township beaches into hubs for skills Salary: R25k TCTC training and social justice. The organisation trains local community members and equips them Senior full-time position with surfing skills as well as providing programmes where vulnerable youth receive social, health and educational support. The R108 000 raised by the golf day will go towards opening To apply, please send your CV to a WFC office in . Club Travel will also give ongoing sales and interviewing training [email protected] to the WFC coaches. Pictured here (from right), are: Tim Conibear (director of Waves for with a covering letter indicating your sales Change); Gokalp Yazir (media relations director for Turkish Airlines); Gary Mulder (financial and international travel experience. director of Club Travel) and Helena Duk, trustee at JDI.

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10 n Wednesday December 17/24 2014 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.

The Travelbags year-end function was held at the Pick of the week Barnyard Theatre Rivonia brought to you by recently. Guests were treated to the venue’s latest show, ‘Battle of the Sexes’, which pits famous musical divas against strutting rockers. Enjoying Conference Co-ordinator – Amadeus Consultant – the show and getting Cape Town Cape Town Quantex Recruitment Quantex Recruitment into the party spirit are: R18000. Fantastic company! (back row, from left): RNeg. Travel consultant wanting to enter the conference industry? No sales targets! Amadeus! Charry Couzyn (director, Able to work flexible hours? Have Only work with VIP’s. Person Itseng Africa); Pierre Du your own transport? Galileo? must be able to work flexi shifts. R30 000 bonus per annum. Plessis (director, Facets Email: [email protected] The Tour Company); Email: [email protected] and (seated, from left): Customer Service Co-ordinator Intermediate & Senior Leisure Delmaine Blignault – W.Cape Consultants - CPT CBD (project manager, Professional Career Services Professional Career Services Complete Marathons); On-line travel agency, Southern Matric, travel qualification. Tania Gomes (inbound Suburbs. Build training processes, Excellent product and fares ensure quality of customer service knowledge. Min 3–5 years’ sales, Extraordinary); and and manage procedural HR matters experience. Galileo. Salary Ending 2014 on a high note Shannon Hendrickson for call centre. R20-R25000. negotiable based on experience. (itinerary planner, Itseng Email: [email protected] Email: [email protected] Africa). Photo: Shannon Van Zyl Account Manager Travel Expert – Pretoria Flight Centre Flight Centre 2 years’ sales/customer service, 2 years’ experience as Matric or relevant degree/diploma, intermediate/senior consultant. SA citizen, international travel Matric or relevant tertiary experience. Basic, lucrative qualification. Galileo. Ability commission structure, medical aid to work independently and and provident fund. Email: within a team. Target and goal [email protected] driven. Email: lauren.moolman@ flightcentre.co.za Executive PA – Western Cape Equity Connections cc Payroll Administrator – Sandton Exciting position for highly skilled Equity Connections cc PA. Computer literate, excellent Manage, run all aspects of large communicator, organised, efficient payrolls. Must have extensive VIP and previous executive level experience essential. Premier skills, minimum four years’ Email: equitycon@.co.za experience in similar role. Email: [email protected] HR Manager – Sandton Wendy’s Travel Personnel Travel Manager – Bryanston Formulate strategies, policies, Wendy’s Travel Personnel plans and budgets in all areas of Amazing opportunity with a Human Resources!! corporate company! Email: [email protected] Email: [email protected] Helping to improve lives E Commerce Travel Adviser – Sales Executive – Cape Town Johannesburg Thompsons Holidays Thompsons Tourvest finished its corporate social responsibility programme for 2014 with a career Seeking a dynamic, customer Seeking a customer centric individual with experience handling day for 29 grade-12 learners attending the charitable organisation Afrika Tikkun’s centric person to promote our online leads and closing sales. centre of excellence in Diepsloot. Tourvest coo, Judi Nwokedi said the projects the wide range of premium holiday Work in an exciting sales driven group had undertaken with Afrika Tikkun this year included its annual township home packages. Package includes: basic environment which rewards building exercise and a donation of ten cash cheques to the families for whom the + car allowance. achievers. houses were built to buy school clothes and food over the festive season. Judi (centre) Email: [email protected] Email: [email protected]

is pictured with some of the Afrika Tikkun learners. TNW7270 These adverts were selected from the vacancy Appointment section of www.travelinfo.co.za For more details contact [email protected]  Wouter Nel has been appointed Maximise your power! sales and marketing INTERMEDIATE & SENIOR CORPORATE TRAVEL Our quick guide to airline info manager, CORPORATE CONSULTANTS – CONSULTANTS – Pretoria gives you access to: Southern JHB Areas Intermediate & Senior Galileo/Amadeus Galileo • A-Z guide to eTickets Africa, for Air Domestic, regional & international bookings Salary: R12 000 – R18 000 ctc. Mauritius. Wouter’s previous Salary: R15 000 - R22 000 p/m. Jean Candice • Commissions experience includes being BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT INBOUND TOUR CONSULTANT – • Online pre-seating & check-in brand leader for Flight MANAGER/SALES MANAGER – Cape Town CBD JHB Intermediate requirements Centre Niche Brands Travel industry exp. essential Tourplan/Travelogic (Cruiseabout, Student Exp. in working with tenders Salary: R 12 000 – R14 000 ctc. • Change fee collections Flights and Online), head Sales track record essential Candice Salary: R18 000 - R25 000 p/m. ctc. Jean • Credit card authorisations and of travel for Groupon RSA BUSINESS DEVOLOPMENT much more... and direct sales manager KEY ACCOUNTS MANAGER – PTA MANAGER– Rosebank Travel Management company exp. Prev TMC exp. Cold calling. at Travelstart. “I have an Corporate travel Corporate travel Log on to www.travelinfo.co.za entrepreneurial approach Salary: R20 000 - R25 000 ctc. Nono Salary: R25 000- R30 000 ctc. Nono and click on TI Plus for more to business and am info. To subscribe to this service, contact Loulla Georgiades Lote passionate about the travel | E mail: [email protected] [email protected] | [email protected] on 011 214 7317 or industry with 10 years’ Web: www.pcs-sa.co.za email [email protected]. travel experience,” he says. TNW7260 TNW7106

QUICK READ FOR busiest people Wednesday December 17/24 2014 n 11 TNW NEWS

Pax can bag a bonus with Mango MANGO Airlines will give Mango flight outside of travel vouchers to travellers promotional offers for six who have paid what the months. airline calls “excessive “Mango’s checked bag luggage allowance charges” allowance is 20kg and to fly with its competitors. allows for up to two bags The promotion runs until combined to reach the January 31. weight limit with hand The airline will exchange luggage pegged at 7kg,” R1 million in receipts, for up says Hein. to R200 per person, against At the same time Mango checked bag charges of has upped its baggage its competitors on certain allowance between Cape competing routes. Town and Port Elizabeth to Travellers will be able to 30kg checked luggage for collect vouchers at Mango the same period. Happy holidays! Guest Service Counters (in Kulula.com charges R245 airports where the airline (online and contact centre The TNW team wish all our readers a very happy festive season and a wonderful 2015. May competes with other low- bookings) or R350 (at the the holidays be joyful and the New Year prosperous and peaceful. Pictured here are: (back, cost airlines) to redeem airport) for a second bag from left) deputy editor, Bruce Dennill; ad co-ordinator Courtney Canham; group editor, when booking their next under the 20kg limit. On Natasha Schmidt; sales executive, Yolanda Katsi; key account executive, Diana Comninos; flight with Mango. “Travellers its website, FlySafair, which senior designer, Dirk Voorneveld; and (front, from left) photographer, Shannon Van Zyl; must present their checked doesn’t include checked-in production editor, Ann Braun; and publisher, Kate Nathan. Photo: Shannon Van Zyl bag receipt as well as luggage in its fares, informs positive identification to passengers of a R150 receive vouchers toward (online or call centre) or their next Mango flight R250 (at the airport) fee for to the same value,” says a first bag under 20kg, with Blue Train drops Durban, Mango spokesperson, Hein an additional R250 charge Kaiser. The vouchers will for a second bag under that be redeemable against any limit.  opens Kruger route HE Blue Train’s disembark at Hoedspruit date but Themba says it Durban route will be Station and be transferred will not be restrictive, so Tdropped in favour of in game vehicles to Kruger guests wanting to extend a new route to the Kruger Gate. their holiday can be National Park in 2015. booked at any game lodge Demand for Durban has of their choice. dropped while, according to “The Kruger is in the The most popular Blue Blue Train spokesperson, top-three destinations Train journey remains the Themba Masheula, “the visitors want to see Pretoria-Cape Town route. Kruger is in the top-three Charter operations are a Far East is tops with pax destinations visitors want while on holiday in focus for 2015, particularly to see while on holiday in South Africa.” for annual events such In which destinations have you seen a growth in interest in 2014? South Africa”. as the Nedbank Golf The Kruger route will Challenge at Sun City, 50 make use of the Pretoria- Final details of the Blue the Macufe Festival in 43% Hazyview-Hoedspruit Train package are only Bloemfontein and the railway line. Guests will being revealed at a later Durban July.  40

30 SAA ups frequencies in Africa SAA has upped from 18 to 19 flights a to 10 a week. frequencies to some of week. “The strengthening 20 18% 16% its key African routes. From December 4, of these routes comes As of December 1, SAA flights between in the wake of positive 10% increased frequencies Johannesburg and load factors and 10 6% between Johannesburg Kinshasa increased from increased traffic between 3% 2% 2% and Maputo from 17 to six to seven a week, and the countries,” says 21 a week and between from Johannesburg to SAA acting ceo, Nico

0 Johannesburg and Harare Mauritius from nine Bezuidenhout.  UK Africa Europe Islands Far East Far Southern North and East Africa West Africa West Asia and the Indian Ocean

South America Lufthansa’s LCC From page 1 on long-haul routes, and and would introduce its new – a joint-venture company aims to take advantage of premium economy on the of Lufthansa and Turkish fast growth in the leisure Johannesburg route on Airlines. travel segment, which it says April 22. Lufthansa’s decision to now represents 75% of all He said the carrier recorded push ahead with its budget intercontinental flights. a 30% capacity increase airline operations comes as Axel added that Lufthansa on its seasonal Cape Town the airline battles to stay remained committed to service for 2014/15, with competitive against LCCs in maintaining its daily A380 demand “well above previous Europe and Gulf operators services to Johannesburg years”.  TNW7067

12 n Wednesday December 17/24 2014 QUICK READ FOR DECISION-MAKERS