May 21 2014 I No. 2301 Southern Africa’s Travel News Weekly

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NEWS REPORT Feature Staywell Tourism Indaba 2014 SELL MORE ... Oz hotel group enters Africa High airfares threaten tourism SKIING INSIDE Page 2 Page 4 Page 11 New SA carrier – is there room?

Chana Boucher regional sector could lead to the market becoming unstable. “A price OMPETITION in SA’s domestic war is inevitable, and this will be and regional airlines is great for consumers for a while.” Cheating up. Rodger says the thin routes have Ex-SAA ceo, Siza Mzimela, plans inadequate volumes to sustain to launch a new airline, Fly Blue competition. “We have seen Crane, that will operate domestic this time and time again, with and regional routes. Fly Blue Crane competitors falling by the wayside is a subsidiary of Siza’s consultancy after having entered markets such as business, Blue Crane Aviation, which Polokwane (Velvet Sky) and Nelspruit she runs with Theunis Potgieter and (Comair) in the past. As it is, on the Take the challenge! Jerome Simelane, also both ex-SAA. routes currently competed on by SA Réunion Island Tourism is inviting agents to enter ‘Mascarun South The airline is remaining tight-lipped, Express and Airlink there is far too Africa’ and win a spot on its adventure educational. For six days between not offering many details about its much capacity, yields are inadequate September 7 and 14, eight teams of three travel agents will have the plans. Rich Mkhondo, executive: and the situation is unsustainable.” opportunity to discover the island and take part in the various exciting chief marketing and communications Although Rich indicated that the of Fly Blue Crane, would only confirm intention was for Fly Blue Crane outdoor activities. To win a place on Mascarun South Africa, sign up that the airline had applied for an Air to operate as a regional airline, online at mascarun.welcometoreunionisland.com. Participants will be Services Licence “for potential future the carrier has also applied selected through sales challenges but also by registering for an e-learning prospects of launching a regional for a domestic licence, citing programme at www.travelinfo.co.za/workshops. Playing to win, are, airline”. Johannesburg and Cape Town as the from left: Hélène Bezuidenhout (Atout France) and Stéphane Bonneau According to Fly Blue Crane’s airports from where it would operate. (Réunion Regional Tourism Board). Photo: Shannon Van Zyl application with the DoT, Siza, who Aasa ceo, Chris Zweigenthal, says owns 70% of the airline, will be new airlines are seeing a gap in the ceo. Theunis, with 20% of the the market. “If Fly Blue Crane were shares, will be coo; while Jerome, to operate on the Johanneburg- The next wave of with the remaining 10%, will take Cape Town route, and if FlySafair the position of chief commercial and Skywise were to commence ‘bricks-and-mortar’ operator. operations, that would lead to an The application also states that oversupply of seats on the route.” Debbie Badham customers into the store and Fly Blue Crane will use Bombardier He says, to be sustainable a new keeping them there. Canadian Regional Jet (CRJ) 900 airline needs to be sure that the XL SANDOWN Travel has unveiled Situated in Sandton City’s Banking Series aircraft, not currently operated yields from passenger sales will its new concept store – which it Hall, the store greets customers by any other airline in South Africa, be able to cover the high operating has dubbed the “next generation with a wide entrance and a digital and that the plan is to launch costs with as low an overhead cost travel agency” – with a touch-screen touch screen, from which they are services by January 2015. One of structure as possible. “There is a monitor, specialist consultants able to browse different products the regional routes in which it has need for growth in the market and and unique packaging and pricing that the agency has put together expressed interest is Cape Town- this would need to be sustained options for leisure travellers. No – similar to how they would online. Windhoek. beyond the time of introductory low longer your typical bricks-and-mortar The packages are grouped under Rodger Foster, ceo and md of SA competitive fares.” storefront, XL Sandown Travel aims different subject tabs, Airlink, says a new entrant in the To page 20 to attract more foot traffic, bringing To page 2

TNW6166SD NEWS StayWell enters Africa USTRALIA’S StayWell will operate all StayWell- this joint venture between Hospitality Group has branded properties in Mantis and StayWell Ateamed up with Mantis sub-Saharan Africa,” said couldn’t be better,” said Collection to front the StayWell ceo and md, the chairman of Mantis, growth of its hotel brands Simon Wan. “It provides a Adrian Gardiner. “The throughout sub-Saharan vital platform for StayWell’s opportunities are abundant, Africa. expansion into a region and with our expertise we’re Under the joint venture that is accelerating in looking forward to growing agreement, StayWell will growth.” Simon added that the Park Regis and Leisure establish its Park Regis and sub-Saharan Africa was Inn brands throughout the Leisure Inn brands in some outpacing North Africa region – we already have

TNW6154SD of sub-Saharan Africa’s key in terms of hospitality a few propositions in the cities, at prime properties to development. pipeline.” be procured by Mantis. “Sub-Saharan Africa is The deal follows StayWell’s Rubes® By Leigh Rubin “We have entered an where India and China recent hotel entry into China important joint venture were 20 years ago in and its expansion in India, partnership to form a hotel terms of development and where it now has eight hotel management company that opportunity; the timing of agreements. 

XL Sandown Travel has specialist stations in four separate booths. Photo: Shannon Van Zyl

“Hey, don’t look at me, lady. I’m strictly ‘fetch only.’” The next wave of ‘bricks-and-mortar’ From page 1 will introduce clients to new “We want the excitement of such as ‘interests’ and and exciting experiences a holiday to begin right there ‘destinations’. they may not have thought of and then, not just when the Founding Editors: What makes these themselves. client gets on a plane.” John H Marsh (1914-1996) Leona Marsh (1923-2003) packages unique, says md Once clients have selected Marco believes that this EDITORIAL of XL Sandown Travel, Marco packages they are interested new brand of concept store TRAVEL NEWS WEEKLY Editor: Natasha Tippel [email protected] Ciocchetti, is that they offer in, they are then engaged by is the way forward for travel www.etnw.co.za Features Editor: Michelle Colman [email protected] clients rates that they would the ‘hostess’, who profiles agents in SA. He says many Published by Contributors: not be able to get online the client to determine what clients step into travel Mandy Watson Debbie Badham Travel & Trade Publishing (Pty) Ltd or direct with the supplier. holiday would suit them agencies for information Printed by Juka Printing (Pty) Ltd Hilka Birns Chana Boucher Dorine Reinstein He says suppliers are often best. From there, she directs and then go home and book Phone: (011) 327-4062 Photographer: Shannon Van Zyl hesitant to drop their rates the customer to the most directly on the Internet. But Fax: (011) 327-4094 E-mail: [email protected] Production Editor: Ann Braun because they fear it will relevant specialist consultant. with this new model, which Web: www.nowmedia.co.za Publisher set a standard they cannot In addition, clearly marked provides clients with better Address: Now Media Centre, Kate Nathan [email protected] afford to maintain. However specialist stations have also deals, highly specialised 32 Fricker Road, Illovo Boulevard, if those rates are hidden in been set up in four separate advice and a more exciting Illovo, Johannesburg. Group Publisher PO Box 55251, Northlands, David Marsh [email protected] the security of a package, booths, under the headings and interactive experience, 2116, South Africa. they are able to grant special of ‘Sun and Ski’, ‘Southern he believes clients will be ADVERTISING inspired to do their travel Sales: [email protected] deals. “Clients won’t easily Africa’, ‘Guided Tours’ and Advertising Co-ordinator: be able to reconstruct the ‘Bucket List’, so that clients shopping in store. Courtney Canham [email protected] same all-inclusive deal online, can feel assured that they are While the agency’s leisure which will include flights, sitting and consulting with an offering will continue to PRODUCTION Design Head: transfers, hotels, meals and expert, Marco says. operate from Sandton City’s Dirk Voorneveld sightseeing options.” Each consultant is equipped Banking Hall, its corporate Also significant is the with a large screen so that business will be moving Subscriptions Circulation [email protected] type of packages that are clients can view their holiday to a separate location in available, which Marco says bookings as they come to life. Johannesburg. 

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2 n Wednesday May 21 2014 QUICK READ FOR DECISION-MAKERS TNW6182SD Report Tourism Indaba 2014

Africa doesn’t need Airfares in Africa 50% national carriers – Minister higher than rest of world Dorine Reinstein taxes and fuel surcharges. Dorine Reinstein like Middle-eastern airlines, “Most African markets have “Many governments flying African routes. This not liberalised their air space. AIRFARES in Africa are actually add taxes that IGH airfares, non- connectivity is good, but It makes it very difficult to 50% higher than anywhere the public doesn’t even transparent taxes and we want our own airlines to think beyond SA and to think else in the world, and this know about because of the Hthe over protectionism of compete on these routes about de-regulating and needs to change. This is un-transparent nature of national airlines are standing as well.” merging with other carriers.” according to SA tourism how prices of aviation fuel in the way of Africa becoming Alain St Ange, Seychelles “When one starts talking minister, Marthinus van are being set. As African the preferred global tourism minister of tourism, agreed, about flag carriers, the notion Schalkwyk, who spoke countries democratise, it destination by 2063, says SA saying countries should of state pride comes to the is much more difficult for tourism minister, Marthinus abandon the idea that they fore, as well as the security “Many governments governments to continue van Schalkwyk, who spoke need a national airline to make of air supply,” adds Nico with un-transparent at the dialogue of African tourism work. “The classic Bezuidenhout, ceo of Mango. add taxes that the systems.” ministers at the Tourism example is the Maldives. They He says operating on politically public doesn’t know Alain St Ange, Seychelles Indaba, which took place from are thriving and they have no important routes such as about because of minister of tourism, May 10-12 in Durban. national airline. But they’ve China would be almost agreed and suggested The minister urged African opened their airspace to allow impossible for SA if SAA did the un-transparent that African airlines should governments and airlines every plane to come into their not exist or if SAA was merged nature of how prices have preferential airfares to look at consolidation country. When more planes with another airline. The way of aviation fuel are for African citizens. “To to be able to compete come in, they ensure there is forward, he says, is to continue increase business, let’s internationally, with fewer but competition and competitive to leverage alliances with other being set.” look at our taxes. Recently, stronger airlines. “We have prices. We need to forget carriers and airline alliances at an Indian Ocean too many small unprofitable about national airlines.” such as Star Alliance. at the dialogue of African commission, a resolution national airlines on the However, it’s not that simple, Inati Ntshanga, SA Express ministers at the Tourism was passed to have continent but, unfortunately, says Kendy Phohleli, SAA gm ceo, says the first step is for Indaba, which took place preferential tickets for many governments overprotect of commercial. He told TNW governments that want state from May 10-12 in Durban. the inhabitants of the their own airlines. If we are the African market was still pride associated with state According to the minister, islands of the Indian honest, what is happening? very regulated, which made airlines to participate in the African countries need Oceans. That is maybe While many of our own it a difficult one in which to development of infrastructure to increase transparency something that we need to airlines are dying, we see operate. He said bilateral and make it cheaper for the when it comes to airfares, do with Africa.”  more international airlines, traffic rights were needed. airlines to operate. 

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4 n Wednesday May 21 2014 QUICK READ FOR DECISION-MAKERS TNW6139SD NEWS

Sub-Saharan Africa outpaces Sabre launches new N Africa’s hotel development products NTERNATIONAL and Africa. However, the survey just in the capitals but also SABRE has launched service functions. regional hotel chains are found less than 60% of in the secondary cities, three new products Guest Connect Upsell signing more deals in sub- the rooms in the pipeline is so marked that the I that will help travel is a hotel booking tool Saharan Africa (SSA) than for SSA were under major international chains companies design and that allows upgrades in North Africa, according construction, compared now cannot ignore the offer more personalised as soon as a guest’s to a survey by Lagos-based with 75% in North Africa. opportunity.” shopping and travel booking is confirmed. consultancy, W Hospitality “There are three trends experiences for Hotels are also able to Group. This is the first time we are observing in Africa, “The lack of quality travellers: Customer send clients targeted SSA has outpaced North which act like a virtuous Experience Manager, offers based on their Africa in signing the most hotel rooms is so circle – cessation of Guest Connect Upsell unique history of deals since the survey conflict, economic growth marked that major and TripCase Corporate. preferences. What’s began in 2009. and investor confidence international chains Customer Experience more, hoteliers can The number of branded – and at present, that Manager provides a also offer guests hotel rooms planned for cannot ignore the virtuous circle has very platform for airlines enhanced services and SSA has risen consistently positive momentum,” opportunity.” to promote ancillaries options that are aligned since 2011, from 13 700 says Jonathan Worsley, to targeted customers with their personal in 2011 to 23 283 rooms chairman of Bench Events, based on the customer’s preferences. in 2014, while the number “The big story this year which organises the Africa history and purchasing Tripcare Corporate of hotel deals signed has is a dramatic surge in Hotel Investment Forum. behaviour. provides a platform for also increased sharply, interest from the hotel This year’s survey is business travel bookings from 77 hotels in 2010 to chains in sub-Saharan based on the contributions 142 hotels in 2014. This Africa,” says Trevor Ward, from 27 hotel chains Seat upgrades and reservations to be represents growth of 84% md of W Hospitality. with 60 brands between High-value passengers made from smartphones, over the five-year period, “The continent generally them. Of these 27 hotel can also be proactively enabling the specification and a compound annual has never been an easy chains, 24 are already rewarded with seat of which trips are for growth rate of 13%. place to do business and operating in Africa, with upgrades when flights business reasons. This The 49 countries that is likely to remain more approximately 84 000 are disrupted or delayed. allows companies to make up SSA have a challenging than Europe rooms. The pipeline of new The platform further more effectively track development pipeline that or even China,” he says. deals therefore represents enables the automation their travel spend, safety is over 40% greater than “However, the lack of almost 50% of the branded of manual customer and security.  the five countries in North quality hotel rooms, not supply. 

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6 n Wednesday May 21 2014 QUICK READ FOR DECISION-MAKERS TNW6178SD NEWS

Find your adventure.. in Malaysian Borneo

Trails of Borneo 14 days R33,300 per person sharing Borneo Family Adventure 11 days R23,360 per person sharing R21,035 per child sharing (ages 5 – 11 yrs) Borneo Wildlife Discoverer Cheers to that! 20 days R50,300 per person sharing Holiday Inn Sandton is inviting agents and guests to indulge with its May cocktail of the month, Melon Splice. The fruity refreshment can be enjoyed at the hotel’s Skye Bar at a 50% discount. Cassidy Van Den Berg, business development manager for Extrabold, and Rodney Bull, gm of the Holiday Inn Sandton, sample the merchandise. Photo: Shannon Van Zyl Prices are quoted land only, per person sharing, subject to Travel Vision’s standard terms, conditions, availability and rate of exchange fluctuations. Contact Travel Vision 011 408 8000 [email protected] TNW7060 Westin CPT focuses on well-being

Chana Boucher “This was supported by the brought to life, Rob adds. Westin’s SuperFoodsRX menu Upgrades at the Westin Find your adventure... HE Westin Cape Town will and Home Collection: Heavenly Cape Town will include a be making some changes Beds and Heavenly Showers.” refurbishment of the Executive Tin the coming weeks. The Westin will usher in the Club restaurant, which This was announced recently Westin Well-Being Movement – reopened on May 19 with a at the launch of its Well-Being the latest campaign, which is new menu developed by a top Movement. being offered not only to hotel chef. The hotel will also build The initiative aims to help guests but also to employees. an outdoor pool and convert guests “eat well, sleep well, All the related programmes the aircrew lounge into a mock- move well, play well and feel and partnerships will be based up of what the refurbished well”. Hotel gm, Rob Kucera, on what the Westin is calling bedrooms will look like. says it aims to have guests its ‘six pillars’ – feel well, The Arabella Spa will be feeling better when they leave work well, move well, eat well, upgraded and rebranded to a than when they arrived. sleep well and play well, which Heavenly Spa by Westin. Rob “We began making the will reinforce the Westin’s adds that on the mezzanine Dharmesh Kooverjee, difference with the unique commitment to the well-being level, the conference section Travel Vision’s CEO, talks to us ‘Gear Lending’ programme,” of guests, says Rob. will be refurbished and the about finding adventures. Rob says, which enables The global campaign will see cigar lounge will get a facelift. guests to borrow the sports the launch of an online portal Changes will take place over Disorientated from being woken at 2am, I pulled on various layers of hiking gear, donned my head torch and set out to equipment (such as running to allow for the exchange of the next couple of months, complete the remainder of the ascent. Outside, the sky was lit shoes) they need for in-hotel new ideas and interpretations when business traditionally by a large moon which illuminated the shadowy outline of the gym sessions, from the hotel. of well-being that could be slows down.  mountain in front of me and a trail of fairy lights winding up the slopes that revealed another group of climbers en-route to accomplishing the shared goal of summiting South East Asia’s highest peak. From Louis the Lawyer – POPI 4095m high Mount Kinabalu is located in the north of Malaysian Borneo. The island is a wonderland for both nature lovers and adventure seekers and is most well known as one of only two Advocate Louis Nel discusses Security Safeguards (part 2) in the next islands in the world where Orang-utans can be found. For the in his series on the Protection of Personal Information Act nature enthusiasts Borneo can be explored with an Exodus Wildlife Discoverer tour that visits orang-utan sanctuaries, INFORMATION processed by re transborder information place as soon as possible proboscis monkey inhabited mangrove forests and caves where an operator (i.e. one who flow: additional requirements after discovery of the clouds of bats can be sighted streaming into the night sky every ‘acts in terms of a contract or i.e. (a) Data Subject (DS) compromise, unless a evening at sunset. mandate and without coming consent [unless (i) for criminal investigation will be Exodus also offers a walking tour of the island which will appeal under the direct authority of benefit DS, (ii) obtaining impeded as determined by to more active travellers. This trip includes a guided trek along the RP’ – responsible person) consent not practical, plus the SAPS, NIA or IPR. the famous Head-hunter’s trail as well as a chance to summit must be dealt with as follows: (iii) DS would be likely to  Such notification must be in Mount Kinabalu. have consented]; or b) writing and conveyed to the Perched on the peak of the mountain, I was higher than I had  The operator (or anyone else transfer must be required for DS in one of: ever been before. The air was thin and I was giddy with both acting on behalf of the RP) performing contract).  Ordinary mail altitude and the headiness of having reached the summit. The must only process personal  The above must be  Email thickness of the jungle had thinned out as we climbed higher information (PI) with the contained in a written  On the website of the PR ‘in until there was nothing but rock face around us. Slowly the sun knowledge or authorisation contract between the RP and a prominent position’ rose and we watched in awe as a view of the South China Sea in of the RP. the operator.  Published in the news media the west and the jungles of Borneo in the east revealed itself.  The operator must treat Notification of security  As directed by the IPR PI as confidential and not compromises:  It must contain adequate disclose it.  If there are reasonable information for the DS to  RP must ensure the grounds to believe that ‘take protective measures operator complies with PI has been ‘accessed against the potential sections 18 and 27 or or acquired’ by an consequences of the For more information contact Travel Vision on the applicable law of the unauthorised person, the DS compromise, including the 086 001 8020, at [email protected] territory where the operator and IPR must be notified. identity of the unauthorised or visit www.travelvision.co.za. is domiciled (read with 72  Notification must take person’  TNW7095

8 n Wednesday May 21 2014 QUICK READ FOR DECISION-MAKERS PillowTalk NEWS A brief look at this week's hotel news Three Cities launches CPT conference venue Lüftner cruises the Irrawaddy THREE Cities Inn On The Square in Cape Town has partnered ROM September, the with the International Hotel School to provide a new conference world described by Kipling venue that can host up to 120 delegates. The venue is a three- Fin his poem, Mandalay, minute walk from the hotel and is equipped with all business and will be accessible for the SA conference amenities and free WiFi. A 24-hour package is available market through Lüftner Cruises for R1 545 per delegate, which includes accommodation, breakfast, (represented by Austria buffet dinner, conferencing meals and parking. The day conference Connection, see Travelinfo). package costs R380 per delegate and includes meals and parking. The nine-night cruise takes guests down the Irrawaddy River, through Myanmar, on IHG unveils InterContinental NhaTrang Lüftner's five-star deluxe INTERCONTINENTAL Hotels Group has opened its first hotel in the boutique vessel, Irrawaddy coastal city of NhaTrang, Vietnam. The hotel has 279 rooms and Explorer. Passengers fly into 56 furnished suites as well as extensive meeting facilities equipped Yangon, and then transfer with the latest technology. Dining options include the hotel’s main to Prome where the cruise restaurant, Cookbook Café, and a poolside bar. Guests can also to Mandalay begins. The make use of the hotel’s fully equipped fitness centre. To celebrate 26 state rooms, measuring its opening, the hotel is running a special promotion on bookings 25-29 sqm, all have balconies made until June 30. for maximum enjoyment of Temple of Bagan. Photo: Lüftner Cruises the passing landscape, and combine French colonial style brick temples, centuries-old Rates start from €3 005pps Virgin to buy Franschhoek property with state-of-the-art luxury and monasteries and the multitude (R43 820) including drinks VIRGIN Limited Edition has signed a contract to purchase Mont every modern convenience. of markets along the river. (beer and wine at dinner); Rochelle Hotel & Vineyard in Franschhoek. Sir Richard Branson The best months climatically This is a brand-new ship and all meals, including themed said: “I’m thrilled to announce that we are in the process of are October-April. Excursions a brand-new cruise for Lüftner, dinners; WiFi in public areas; purchasing Mont Rochelle.” Albert Gatare, a member of Miko include the historic town with the first departure from excursions specified in Rwayitare’s family, who purchased the property in 2001, said: “With of Bagan with its 2 000 Prome on September 21. itinerary; and port taxes.  both [Branson’s] and Virgin Limited Edition’s ambitious plans for the future of Mont Rochelle, the family is certain that Miko’s vision of creating a small slice of heaven on earth will be realised.” Following To the point final purchase proceedings, the hotel is expected to close for refurbishment, with a view to Mont Rochelle reopening in August. The Swaziland Civil Aviation Authority has advised that airport tax has increased from May 1 for passengers flying from Matsapha Airport. Taxes have doubled, from SZL50 (R50) to SZL100 (R100).

a 7 night Mediterranean Cruise PLUS 10 Royal Caribbean Visit: www.travelinfo.co.za WIN hampers up for grabs!

Royal Caribbean International offers cruises to some of the most sought- after destinations in the world. Learn about their product offering in this online workshop.

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QUICK READ FOR busiest people Wednesday May 21 2014 n 9 NEWS AirHeads eTravel – 15 and just A snapshot of the week's airline news Lufthansa to fly to Lublin getting started LUFTHANSA will introduce two flights a week between Frankfurt and Lublin, Poland, from July 3, making it the airline’s TRAVEL is 15 years for our clients is 75%.” eighth destination in the country. Flights will be operated on old this month. Having Ensuring that clients earned over R900 million understand the full suite Thursdays and Sundays using a 138-seat Airbus A319 aircraft E configured in business and economy class. LH 1380 will in travel sales over the past of services eTravel offers year, the company has much in comparison with its depart at 09h30 on Thursdays and 10h20 on Sundays, arriving to celebrate. competitors has proved in Lublin at 11h25 and12h15 respectively. “We’ve been through all challenging over the years for our teething problems and the company. Garth says that SW temporarily cancels flights now find ourselves a well- eTravel has now been around AIR Namibia has cancelled flight SW722 from Windhoek to established teenager,” says long enough to establish a Accra and flight SW508 from Accra to Windhoek from May 11 founder and ceo, Garth Wolff. good reputation. “Clients to June 20 due to low demand on the route. The cancellations Garth says eTravel was who have left us often soon only apply to the Wednesday and Friday flights. Passengers founded with the vision realise they are not getting to look after small travel the support they need with pre-existing bookings will be rebooked at no additional businesses and he believes elsewhere.” charge. Rerouting on other airlines is also a possibility – that the company has Having discovered its outstation managers will assess passengers’ needs and managed to do exactly that. winning formula, the company assist accordingly. Accommodation will be made available for “When we first launched, the plans to focus on developing passengers unable to be rerouted. pay-out for our ITCs was 35%, its current relationships with 65% of revenue retained rather than drawing up plans TK adds Stavropol by eTravel. Today the payout for future expansion.  Garth Wolff. Photo: Shannon Van Zyl TURKISH Airlines has added Stavropol as its 10th destination in Russia. Flights from Istanbul operate on Tuesdays, Fridays and Sunday. TK 483 departs Istanbul at 00h30 and arrives SA MICE industry faces stiff in Stavropol at 03h45. TK484 departs from Stavropol on the same days at 05h15 and arrives in Istanbul at 06h40. Introductory round-trip fares start at €99 (R1 245), including competition from Africa taxes and fees. During the first six months, Miles & Smiles Hilka Birns sub-Saharan Africa. Ethiopia’s economy was members will receive a 25% discount on the miles needed to Zelda said Africa had growing at 11%. He said redeem award tickets or upgrades on the route. The airline THE South African conference become a hot destination for Addis would have eight five- also increased flights between Istanbul and Boston to five industry needs to stay abreast incentives and the exchange star hotels by the end of times weekly from May 12, increasing to seven flights a week of burgeoning competition rate meant good value but May 2015. It already has 24 from June 9. TK now operates 21 flights a week between from the rest of Africa, which training and service levels four-star hotels with 10 000 Tripoli and Istanbul. Refer to Travelinfo for more information. is increasingly becoming a lagged behind. rooms. Hotels in Addis Ababa focal point for international According to information enjoy a 75% occupancy rate. PCOs. presented to the panel Meanwhile, East Africa HKG transit pax can visit Disneyland This was the message discussion by various is boosting its convention CATHAY Pacific passengers can now spend their time in transit from Zelda Coetzee, national delegates at the event, growth facilities. The Arusha exploring Hong Kong Disneyland, which is just 20 minutes from chairperson of the Southern in Africa is showcased by International Conference the airport. Transit passengers who arrive and depart from African Association for the Lagos, which plans a new Centre in Tanzania has Hong Kong on the same day can purchase an In-Transit Easy Conference Industry (SAACI), convention centre and expects expanded to accommodate Pass for HKD270 (R370). It includes a luggage valet service at a panel discussion at the an increase of 23 000 hotel more than 1 300 delegates. for one item of luggage. The offer is valid until September 30. Incentives, Business Travel & rooms by 2017, while Addis Upgrades are planned for Meetings (IBTM) Africa expo Ababa last year recorded a the Kenyatta International AirClub launches jet booking platform held in Cape Town as part 24% growth in tourism and Conference Centre in Nairobi. of Africa Travel Week. She this year expects a 30%-plus Zelda said SAACI planned AIRCLUB has introduced a brand-new business-to-consumer called on the local industry to increase. to establish branches in online booking platform, www.airclub.aero, that groups reinvent itself and “think out Gerard Hounkponou, officer Lusaka and Windhoek together the largest fleet of corporate jets worldwide. The of the box” in order to keep up in charge of the 1000-delegate soon, which would assist platform lets customers check availability immediately and with competition from the rest United Nations Conference the professionalising of the book a jet at direct operator pricing worldwide, and also of the continent, particularly in Centre in Addis Ababa, said industry there.  enables them to tailor their journey to their particular needs. The innovative online platform can be used by anyone, Nikita Tavlet selects the top specials from Travelinfo anywhere in the world.

 South African Airways. Business-class return fare ex-JNB to Nairobi decreased to R10 600. Stay must include a Saturday night. Taxes and surcharges excluded. Vic Falls Safari Lodge and  Beachcomber Tours. Launch offer to Morocco. 30% discount – rates are from R15 170pps at the five-star Royal Palm Marrakech. One child under 13 years sharing with parents pays Three Cities end contract only for meals. Rate includes return private car airport transfers, accommodation in a junior suite, daily breakfast plus complimentary mini bar, consisting of soft VICTORIA Falls Safari Chobe, Botswana; in Lodge in Zimbabwe, the the last three years and drinks and water. Valid for travel from June 16 to September 14. flagship of Africa Albida have now created our  Ethiopian Airlines. Launch fare to Vienna – return fares are from R5 832 Tourism (AAT), is not own team of key skills ex-JNB. Available for flights starting June 2. Fare includes approximate taxes. Specials renewing its marketing and personnel, along  United Europe. ‘Best Of Greece’ packages. Athens and Santorini and technical services with sales, marketing packages are from R5 890 during May. Offer includes two nights in Spot agreement with Three and PR resources Athens, four nights in Santorini, three-star accommodation, breakfast Cities. The contract locally, regionally and daily, return transfers in Athens and Santorini and economy ferry expires in June. internationally. All between Athens and Santorini. Refer to Travelinfo for more rates and Ross Kennedy, ceo additional resources other travel dates. of AAT, says: “We have or advisers that may  Fastjet. Johannesburg and Dar es Salaam special. Fares are from grown as a group, with be necessary will be new properties in Victoria appointed on an ad hoc R1 600 one way, inclusive of all airport charges and taxes. Falls, Zimbabwe; and basis.” 

10 n Wednesday May 21 2014 QUICK READ FOR DECISION-MAKERS SELL MORE ... SKIING

The Photo: Club Med UR mystery shopper December to ski, travelling I also pointed out that we contacted three via Dubai with a two-night were first-time skiers. The Naked Oconsultants in Port stopover in the city for pre- choice of consultants was Elizabeth. The request was Christmas shopping. The trip based on brand names and for a visit to France with a should ideally include the the promise on their websites Agent companion for one week in December 16 public holiday. of great service. Our selling-orientated criteria: Engage the customer by making an excellent first 10% WINNER impression – be interested, excited and enthusiastic. Profile the customer, getting to know their needs in full, their likes, dislikes and prior travels. Use consultative Travel Counsellors 73% 20% sales techniques, not transactional questions only, and On Travel Counsellors’ important to ensure we got provide advice about the destination. website, clients can look some snow as it was early Hook the customer, preventing their further shopping for a consultant best in the season. She said we 10% around, by sounding like an expert. suited to their needs, view wouldn’t need two nights in consultants’ profiles, where Dubai as we could do all the Match the enquiry to the quote, providing two or three 10% they have travelled and their shopping we needed in two options, ideally within the same day of enquiry. service offering. I chose an days. Yvonne said her family Sell the holiday ideas and bring them to life. Don’t just agent in the Port Elizabeth had done the same skiing 20% Yvonne Roy attach a quote. area whose profile said she trip, returning via Dubai, was “an avid skier, golfer and had loved it. Taking destination to Austria 5% Close the sale when you spot buying signals. and cruise enthusiast.” the late flight out of Dubai and awaited the re-quote. Yvonne Roy did not let me also kept costs down. She Again her sales technique Convert the sale by creating a sense of urgency and 15% down. “I love doing those,” asked for a couple of days to was excellent, with lots asking for the booking. she said. “I can tell you investigate and quote. After of recommendations and Persist if customers provide a reason why they can’t everything you need to know. three days I followed up as expertise. Next day I advised 10% book – attempt to overcome objections. I think it’s the best holiday I had heard nothing. Yvonne Yvonne that unfortunately you can ever have. I can said she was awaiting circumstances had arisen 100% TOTAL give you all the help you feedback from the most that would prevent us from Agents are scored up to the maximum of the weighted percentages above. need as I have done it many important ski tour operator booking until July, whereupon times.” What an impactful and that I would receive she advised me not to opening statement! She quotes at the weekend. By hesitate to contact her in the then slipped in questions the Monday I received an future. A great final touch Get sales fit between dispensing travel email that painted pictures would have been for her advice and enthusiasm. with words and compared to confirm which package Want to improve your sales skills? ‘Get sales fit’ is a When I gave her our dates, ski destinations and resorts we were happy with and free two-hour online workshop running on Travelinfo she said picking the right together with prices. We to confirm that she would Workshops now. It is exclusive to TI Plus users. resort and country was decided to change our contact us in July.

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QUICK READ FOR busiest people Wednesday May 21 2014 n 11 SELL MORE SKIING Sure Maritime Travel Charlo 55% Checking out the website, wanted to include Dubai on I was sure this consultant the return and ski in France. ski package she suggested would not disappoint. Sure The call was very quick and was valiantly sold in the Sell the fun Maritime promised “Through she told me I would receive email. She really brought our long association and some quotes inside 24 the holiday to life and turned IN A snap survey on selling holiday repeat business is membership with Sure Travel hours. The consultant kept features into benefits and ski holidays to South not guaranteed. we are able to leverage the me notified on a daily basis wholeheartedly recommended Africans conducted among The survey, posted on most attractive holiday deals while awaiting quotes, then her selection. Unfortunately, retail travel agents and eTNW last month, aimed to to just about any destination after a few days she emailed she made no mention of wholesale tour operators, identify patterns that underlie in the world. We specialise in asking whether we had skied Dubai. When I advised her respondents revealed the process of booking beach, ski, cruise, honeymoon, before. She advised me of that I was shopping around, the pivotal role played by a ski vacation as well as as well as group tours”. The last year’s costs, pointing she said: “No problem. If affordability and value-for- opportunities to upsell or consultant’s greeting was out that my budget probably you decide to book with us, money in choice of resort, ‘sell-more’ ski packages to confident and professional. wouldn’t stretch to France and please contact me.” She as well as the fact that ski South African holidaymakers. The sales process was mainly that it may not be the best didn’t seem to understand transactional but she did ask destination due to low snowfall why I was shopping around, Split opinions if we would like suggestions in December. She followed up isolate my hesitation, query about where we would like the same day with a ski quote. whether I was happy with her Agents and tour operators increased. Because the to stay. I gave her our basic Although she misunderstood recommendations or give me a were divided in their opinions difference was relatively requirements, adding that we my requirements, the Andorra reason to book with her. on whether the volume of minimal, we can conclude South African ski holiday there is still a great deal of clients had increased or appeal to ski holidays and decreased over the last ski that, despite the current Pro-Net Travel season. A slight majority of economic climate, they remain respondents (54%) believed a popular choice for the Newton Park the volume had decreased, adventurous and experience- while 46% believed it had driven holidaymaker. Pro-Net’s website hooked me from. The discussion was with: “You speak with your transactional and quite quick, Did the volume of SA ski clients increase consultant who understands ending with a promise that 20% or decrease last season? you and your specific travel the agent would contact the needs, not only now, but operators and send some the agent attached visa forms for every trip in future.” I, quotes the next day. An email for both Dubai and France. therefore, expected really arrived confirming my request A number of emails can be good personal service and next day I received a confusing for the customer  and the initial greeting flight quote in the body of and while I appreciated the 54% 46% Increased was extremely friendly and another email captured consultant sending visa forms  Decreased upbeat. The consultant asked from a GDS, along with an and advice, unfortunately what I wanted to do, when attached quote from a tour there was no understanding and where I wanted to fly operator. In yet another email of my needs and no selling.

Sales tip Popular resorts Interestingly, when asked in Italy was mentioned Deliver the brand promise you promote to name the three most in 18% of responses. popular resorts and their Three Austrian resorts Imagine that there is a new buy it and eagerly rip off the into making enquiries. Yet how countries, respondents came next: Kitzbühel and chocolate on the market and wrapping and bite, closing often do business owners listed a wide variety, ranging Saalbach each received you are a chocaholic. You your eyes in anticipation. sales manage their front line, from locations in Italy, 8% of mentions, followed have seen the bar advertised Unfortunately it tastes awful. customer-facing, service- France, Austria, Switzerland by St Johann with 7%. An on TV, in the newspapers and Business owners spend delivering, money-making and Germany, to the US and opportunity to ‘sell-more’ in your favourite magazine. significant amounts of money sales people, ensuring that even Lesotho. Four resorts ski resorts may lie in the It promises to melt in your advertising their brand. In service meets or exceeds the were mentioned more marketing of lesser-known mouth and taste like heaven. many cases, this is what expectations and advertised often than others. Livigno resorts. You rush out to the shops to initially hooks the prospect brand promise?

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12 n Wednesday May 21 2014 QUICK READ FOR DECISION-MAKERS A once-in-a-lifetime trip Factors influencing resort choice The survey results showed of respondents experienced viewed as a ‘once-in-a-lifetime’ Unsurprisingly, price South Africans were that there was not much repeat business in excess of trip and holidaymakers can be emerged as the biggest better able to plan for opportunity for agencies 75%. This may be due to price encouraged to make the most influencing factor in expenditure and curb to capitalise on repeat ski levels. Upselling, however, of their time there with extra clients’ choice of a unnecessary expenses. holiday business. The graph could perhaps be based on services, such as excursions ski resort, with 75% of Snow conditions followed below revealed that only 8% the fact that a ski holiday is and entertainment. respondents believing price close behind at 43%. was one of the largest Recommendations from What percentage of your ski resort bookings is repeat business? influencers. An all-inclusive others were not a large offering was given as the contributing factor to More than 75% second most influential resort choice, nor did the factor (49% of responses). country of the resort play Budget-friendly, all-inclusive a vital role in determining 51%-75% packages meant that choice.

What are the biggest influencing factors in a client's 26%-50% choice of resort? 100% 0-25% 0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% % of respondents

Price Advice to offer repeat skiers Most repeat skiers knew Look at resorts with more may encourage them to go where they wanted to go and advanced ski slopes. back for longer next time. didn’t require advice. The best Try and upgrade the chosen I would then advise about advice to offer an undecided resort or choose resorts that ski options available for the 50% All-inclusive offering repeater, however, would be to are close to other excursion next trip.

Snow conditions try a different country. Many of areas. Charmaine Lombard – the agents and tour operators Irene Ferreira – XL Travel Today, Nelspruit. % of respondents suggest going the Club Med SA Reynolds Travel Centre, Accessibility

Word of mouth recommendations Word all-inclusive route for a return Springs. I encourage them to stay for booking. Here are more tips longer than a seven-night from respondents: Since SA passport holders package so that they can Country have one Schengen visa for explore the surrounding Travel in low season, as it is many EU countries, let them resorts and slopes as well. much cheaper. use connecting flights for Monique Manly – 0% Caroline Dabengwa – stopovers. This way, they can Harvey World Travel, Travel Airscape, Johannesburg. see a bit of that country, which Port Elizabeth.

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QUICK READ FOR busiest people Wednesday May 21 2014 n 13 SELL MORE SKIING

Travel insurance is an opportunity There is huge opportunity for agents to than 75% of their clients purchased earn commission on travel insurance travel insurance. A much smaller 20% Quick Reference Guide: as an addition to a ski package, and reported that only 25% or less of their a large amount of respondents do so. clients bought travel insurance from 55% of survey respondents said more them. Airlines

What percentage of ski clients purchase travel insurance from you? Air France 20%  0-25%  Ski equipment is a standard environmentally friendly A380 checked baggage item and is between Johannesburg and Paris. 55% 10%  26%-50% included at no extra charge in It has seating capacity for 538  51%-75% passengers’ permitted baggage passengers and improved comfort. 15% It also operates seasonal thrice-  More than 75% allowance. One pair of skis, poles and boots, or a snowboard and weekly direct flights from Cape boots are allowed. Town to Paris.  Air France operates daily  AF operates 1 500 daily flights in night flights on board the France, Europe and worldwide. Sales tips SWISS International Air Lines:  From its hub in Zurich and set of ski equipment in addition Travel agent and tour operator I suggest that they stay in chalets and regional airports of Basel and to checked luggage allowance. respondents also offered these tips do a half-board arrangement including Geneva, SWISS flies to 84  While en-route to a ski on selling ski holidays to South wine and beer with evening meals. destinations in 40 countries – 60 destination, SWISS offers Africans: I encourage couples to stay in mixed in Europe and 24 worldwide. on-board entertainment on chalets and meet new people.  Offers free transportation for one demand. If they have seen everything, make it Brenda Bishop – African Fusion Travel, exciting. Mention value-added benefits, Zambia and Cape Town and if they have children, make sure they bring them along when they see The best way to sell a ski holiday is to you. A child’s reaction to your ‘talk’ can really explain what happens. Explain Resorts make a huge difference. the fun from a first-hand experience. Heide de Goede – Club Travel That is what grabs South Africans – first-hand recommendations. Pure Skiing: Clients must get reasonably fit before Natasha Coetzer – Pentravel, going. Make sure they have the correct Cape Town Livigno  A scenically beautiful town, clothing as it’s very expensive to buy or  A high-altitude Italian resort that situated on a lake with a medieval hire at the resort. Go to as many presentations on ski features a duty-free area, Livigno centre. Dianne Austin – Anchor Travel, resorts as you can find – they are has been voted one of the best  A great all-round resort with fun Amanzimtoti always fun and educational. value-for-money resorts in Europe. nightlife. Estelle Nysschen –  Offers 24-hour service from a I like to sell resorts that have a lot Bon View Travel Services, Allens Nek Pure Skiing host. All the hassles St Johann in Tirol more activities than just skiing. are taken care of, leaving clients  A small, family-oriented Austrian This is especially so for first-time Combine the seven-day ski holiday with time to enjoy the atmosphere. ski resort. skiers who might have someone in visiting a European city like Munich or,  A good option for people learning their party who doesn’t enjoy skiing and if flying with Emirates or Etihad, include Zell am See to ski. would prefer to shop or go on other a few days in Dubai or Abu Dhabi on  Located in Austria, Zell am See  Offers exceptional value for money excursions. their return. offers travellers a 100% snow for the more budget-conscious Wendy Schulze – Thompsons Travel, Yvonne Roy – Travel Counsellors, guarantee with glacier skiing. traveller. Johannesburg Knysna

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14 n Wednesday May 21 2014 QUICK READ FOR DECISION-MAKERS Club Med: Tourist Boards

Valmorel  Located in France, Atout France: Valmorel is a family resort catering for  France has numerous ski resorts include children from four resorts in the northern alpine and Nordic months to 17 years. and southern Alps, the skiing, snowboarding,  Good for beginners as it Massif Central and Jura snowshoeing, sled dogs, offers 150km of slopes regions, the Pyrenees ice diving, night skiing including 22 green, 38 and the Vosges. and night life. blue, 17 red and eight  The country is home  Resorts open for skiing black. to three of the largest between October and  Relaxation facilities on ski areas in the world, December and the site include a heated each encompassing season runs until April/ indoor swimming pool, multiple interconnected May. hot tub and Turkish lifts, resorts and villages  France Montagnes is an bath. and hundreds of miles association that brings of trails. These are together the major players in the country’s Val d’Isère Paradiski, Les Trois mountain tourism  Situated in France, Val Vallées and Les Portes sector and promotes all d’Isère is suited to du Soleil.  facilities. couples and groups of Activities in French friends. It does not have a kids’ club.  Ideal for intermediate skiers; 300km of slopes Did you know? include 22 green, 64 Aerial view of Valmorel Photo: Club Med Atout France will be hosting a Ski in France workshop that will blue, 35 red and 16 Val Thorens 2 300m in altitude, and be attended by representatives from Val d'Isère, Val Thorens and black runs.  A French ski resort suited the largest ski area in Courchevel ski resorts. The workshop takes place from June 9-13.  Conveniently located to couples or groups of the world. To register, email [email protected] close to a village friends. No kids’ clubs.  New après ski facilities with great shopping  The highest ski resort in include self-service opportunities available. Europe, reaching takeaways.

Thompsons Travel:

Cortina entertainment and village settings with lively  Cortina, in Italy, is fashionable shops are on après ski activities. known for its relaxed offer.  There are good ski atmosphere. schools for beginners and  Features excellent ski Kitzbühel and Saalbach children at both resorts. slopes and a good snow  Two of the most popular  Kitzbühel and Saalbach’s record due to the high resorts in Austria, offering town centres and ski altitude. excellent ski conditions. lifts are within walking  Good food, great  Both have charming old- distance.

Travel Insurance Bidvest Travel Insurance:  Automatically includes made for unused ski destroyed or lost skis Winter Sport Cover with passes or ski school and ski equipment. all outbound products, up fees. A ski pass lost, stolen, to the value of R5 million.  Clients who are damaged or destroyed Winter sport activities prevented from skiing during the trip will be include outdoor ice at a pre-booked resort replaced. skating, snowboarding, for more than 24  A traveller certified by skiing, tobogganing and consecutive hours a medical practitioner skidoo as part of an because of insufficient at a ski resort as being organised excursion. snow and total closure of unable to ski due to  The Winter Sport cover the lift system, receive a injury or sudden and reimburses travellers who daily reimbursement up unforeseen illness suffer a financial loss to the limit of liability. occurring during the due to deposits that can’t  Clients are covered trip, will be refunded be recovered, payments against damaged, stolen, accordingly.

TIC:  While hazardous under luggage. off-piste skiing. pursuits are a general  Includes cover for  If a traveller is exclusion on most accidental death or participating in a insurance policies, TIC permanent disability due competition or skiing in a travel insurance policies to skiing accidents. professional capacity, the automatically include  Cover is extended to cover is excluded unless cover for losses related alpine, green, blue, red, a sports extension has to leisure skiing injuries black slopes, cross been added to the policy, or loss of ski equipment country and guided at extra cost.

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QUICK READ FOR busiest people Wednesday May 21 2014 n 15 SELL MORE SKIING SWISS minimises allergens SWISS is set to become The airline is committed from outdoors and animal world’s first certified ‘allergy- to minimising the presence hair from pets on board. minded’ airline. of allergens within its cabin It also makes sure no air- The airline earned the and lounge environment, freshening substances quality seal of approval particularly in upholstery with the potential to irritate from the European Centre materials, air-conditioning the respiratory tract are for Allergy Research or certain food items. released on board, and the Foundation by considering Its high-efficiency air- lavatories are equipped the needs of allergic conditioning system, for with hypoallergenic soap for passengers. example, filters out pollens sensitive skin.

Most common ski insurance claims TIC has already received claims The most expensive claim this for the following injuries from year, amounting to R372 000, those who travelled on a ski was for a broken leg in Austria. High-altitude Sölden has year-round skiing. Photo: Pure Skiing holiday this year: Simmy Micheli, manager sales  Dislocated shoulders and marketing, says an unusual  Broken wrists claim was made when a client  Sprained ankles was talking to her instructor New resort for  Torn ligaments during a lesson and another skier  Broken legs came out of nowhere and skied Pure Skiing According to the insurer, the into her. “[The skier] knocked most common ski accident her down and the result was a WITH Austria as its home base offers year-round skiing and claims are knee-related injuries. Simmy Micheli broken pelvis!” in Europe, Pure Skiing has boarding on the Tiefenbach added a new resort it believes glacier. has everything people have The resort boasts an come to love about Austrian enjoyable après-ski scene. Did you know? ski resorts. Pure Skiing describes it as an Located just an hour from all-round gem of a resort that Current Pure Skiing specials to Saalbach include a White Christmas special running from December Innsbruck, Sölden is a snow- mainly targets intermediate to 20-27 from R19 300 per adult sharing, and a January Steal from January 3-10 from R17 465. A Beat sure, high-altitude resort that advanced skiers. the Crowd special at Zell Am See from December 13-20 is priced at R13 007. See TI for information. 

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16 n Wednesday May 21 2014 QUICK READ FOR DECISION-MAKERS Corporate Hotels

2 Budgets stay low Corporate budgets are occupancy and RevPar static, says Peter, and that is finally normalising companies are demanding at a level congruent with more bang for their buck general economic growth. Photo: Premier Hotels with value-adds, like the The Johannesburg and Cape inclusion of breakfast, at Town markets, in particular, the same rate. “Pricing are doing well,” he says. The changing face of and service delivery thus According to Allan, present a challenge.” however, travel budgets Corporates appear to be have definitely been cut and corporate hotels coping with restricted clients are mindful of the budgets with shorter stays, rates offered by a highly Dorine Reinstein shrinking travel budgets, the the hospitality and travel often booked at short competive industry. “It corporate hotel industry has industries over the next five notice, he notes. seems unlikely that budgets HE corporate hotel shifted its focus to value-for- to 10 years. With this comes Danny says there’s been will materially increase in sector has changed money, while at the same a new set of demands, from little change in the past the forseeable future with tremendously during the time taking into consideration fast booking to fast check-in, T year in terms of room types the never ending economic past few years in an attempt the changing demographics fast WiFi and fast responses booked across the board. recession, however it is to adapt to the opportunities of the corporate traveller. to customer service needs. “The industry is relatively always very challanging to and challenges that face the The hospitality sector is TNW spoke to industry healthy, with greater forecast such matters.” corporate travel sector. waking up to the fact that experts to get a glimpse Still plagued by the Millennials will become into the changing face of the economic downturn and by the core customer within corporate hotel sector. 3 Loyalty’s importance grows 1 Travel agents still rule Sigal Nassimov-Geva, rewards through banks, such According to City Lodge sales, marketing and revenue marketing and assistant as e-bucks through FNB, divisional director sales and for Protea Hotels, says travel operations manager at also play a part in educating marketing, Peter Schoeman, agents will continue to deliver Premier Hotels and Resorts, consumers on tangible the relationship between hotel an invaluable service for the says South Africans like to loyalty rewards, which are groups and corporate clients, corporate travel market. feel that they belong to a increasingly demanded.” linked through the intermediary He says the new emerging community that acknowledges Protea too has seen an of a travel consultant, remains traveller often has fewer than and rewards them for their increase in the number of significant. Although direct five years’ travel experience, spend. “Reward and loyalty corporates taking advantage online bookings are growing, which means the travel expert programmes are a great way of its loyalty programme. facilitated by booking engines is a critical part of facilitating to connect your customers Danny explains: “Companies with increasing capability, travel. Allan Clingham, gm to your brands. The trick for are encouraged to purchase 2014 is going to be making Prokards for their frequent- corporate clients still want Crowne Plaza Johannesburg Peter Schoeman the hassle-free experience – The Rosebank, agrees that sure the rewards offered flyer executives because they provided by a travel agent there will always be a need He does, however, foresee have real value. Budget- save money in a number and the advantage of having for TMCs. He says MICE day-to-day accommodation conscious travellers, both of ways and their staff are someone to sort things out bookings through agencies bookings coming direct to local and international, will all eligible for free upgrades when they go wrong. have increased more than hotels as they do not require be looking for the best deals should a superior room type Danny Bryer, director of anticipated in the recent past. significant industry expertise. and value. Virtual currency be vacant.”

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QUICK READ FOR busiest people Wednesday May 21 2014 n 17 Corporate Hotels 4 Free WiFi – a non-negotiable

Free WiFi has become a also had to align their WiFi he cautions that speed and non-negotiable. Numerous infrastructure to be able to bandwith are also required. international studies have deliver connectivity to multiple As an interim step, the City shown that WiFi access is devices as corporate travellers Lodge group has extended its the most significant factor in carry an average of two to free WiFi offering to an hour at accommodation decisions by three devices.” Danny says. the Courtyard, City Lodge and executives. Allan agrees that WiFi is Town Lodge brands, with half “If a hotel isn’t prepared a huge selling point, which an hour at Road Lodges. This to offer free WiFi, corporate is why Holiday Inn offers it will be further improved. WiFi travellers will simply stay on a complimentary basis is available throughout hotels elsewhere. Hotels have to all in-house guests, but and not only in bedrooms.

5 Uncluttered rooms When it comes to in-room amenities, there is a definite trend towards Healthy breakfasts are in demand by corporates. sleek, clean, uncluttered Photo: Cresta Hotels rooms with showers rather than baths, according to 7 Healthy eating Danny. “Most important of all is a good bed with crisp, Food trends are shifting City Lodge brands, has clean linen and pillows that towards healthier eating. revamped menus to reflect The City Lodge Group, which more variety and options for are sleep perfection. Get A good bed and crisp linen are must-haves. Photo: Cresta Hotels that right, and you can be offers coffee shops at its those with dietary issues. forgiven just about anything He says Holiday Inn offers and working areas in else,” he states. selected DStv channels, the lobby. More plug points have tea- and coffee-making For its part, City Lodge also become a necessity, facilities, en-suite bathroom has upgraded soaps and 8 Corporates go for green as the modern traveller is with bath amenities and toiletries after careful travelling with at least one laptop-sized safes. Gym review, and now offers Allan points out that there building and running more or two electronic devices. facilities are becoming a limited range at the is an increase in the sustainable hotels. Nine IHG “Guests expect value increasingly popular, along Road Lodge brand, where number of environmentally hotels in South Africa are for money,” adds Allan. with café-type experiences previously there were none. savvy corporate travellers. IHG Green Engage-accredited “InterContinental Hotels and they are managing Group (IHG) is leading their environmental impact this move by providing without compromising the 6 Online visibility more sustainable hotel guest experience.” stays to our guests. The The City Lodge group has Having a well-organised, specials and promotions presence, you may as well sustainability practices of reduced pollution emissions coherent online presence is directly to engaged target shut your doors because more a hotel are becoming a by 15% across the entire essential for any hospitality markets. “Consumers are than 90% of destination and significant consideration for group with a range of company nowadays. Sigal says increasingly self-researching accommodation research is corporates when it comes sustainability measures and never before has it been this and booking their trips and done online. Hotel companies to deciding where to book was recently recognised for important to make sure that accommodation – using loyalty can no longer afford to run their next business trip. At its efforts with the Eskom online reviews and referrals cards, virtual currency, specials text-heavy sites with a couple IHG, part of creating green awards as a runner-up in the properly reflect hotels. and promotions at will, so it of pictures of their hotels. We solutions is designing, commercial category. “Platforms like TripAdvisor are is absolutely imperative that spent millions of rands last incredibly powerful and their websites allow for bookings year launching new Protea reviews are highly regarded. and that properties are on Hotels and African Pride Hotels Book it Other owned platforms like online booking systems websites precisely because we Twitter and Facebook are such as Expedia, Booking. need to be dynamic marketers Cresta Hotels is offering special rates for clients staying at any effective ways for guests to com, Travelstart and others. of not only products but of its Zimbabwe hotels during May. The special includes a ‘stay communicate with and about Websites must be up to date, destinations as well.” longer’ promotion where guests staying for five nights pay only for hotels.” She cautions that interesting and user friendly.” According to Danny the four. This special is aimed at corporate guests and excludes those complaints should be dealt Peter reports that City Lodge technology has to be simple. attending groups and conferences. Glenn Stutchbury, group ceo with effectively and efficiently recently introduced a mobi Travellers booking on a to avoid negative commentary site, facilitating bookings from brand.com site want clear, for Cresta Hotels, points out that Cresta Sprayview at Victoria Falls, in social media realms. smart phones. The group also concise information and which has been operational since August last year, has already Sigal says ‘owned’ media revamped its website. an uncomplicated, efficient earned a reputation as a hospitality venue. While Victoria Falls platforms provide great Danny says: “Without a well- booking engine that does what offers Africa at its tourist best, conference travel to this area is also opportunities to advertise organised, coherent online it’s meant to do. a hugely satisfying experience, says Glenn. 

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18 n Wednesday May 21 2014 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.

Appointments The Namibia Tourism Board (NTB) announced Terry Stone  Travelport from Club Travel Cape Town has appointed Pick of the week as the winner of its online brought to you by Mohsin Jassat competition for a trip for two key accounts to Namibia, as well as a digital development camera. The prize included director for flights, accommodation at Southern Erindi Private Game Reserve Africa. He joins T erry’s a and excursions around Namibia. Intermediate Corporate Tour Consultant - JHB North Travelport from SAA, where winner Liesel Wild of NTB presented Consultant - JHB East Rand Professional Career Services he was head of corporate Terry with his prize. Professional Career Services Specialise in Southern African sales and acting head of In-house in Germiston. Majority countries. Sell, plan and arrange Market South Africa. Mohsin domestic & bookings to safari itineraries. Outbound began his career in airport Mozambique & Mauritius. Hotel operator. English and Afrikaans. and car reservations. Accounts Own transport. R9 000–R10 000 operations before moving knowledge - matching invoices to + com. to the cargo and passenger statements. Email: [email protected] sales department where Email: [email protected] he focused on business VIP Travel Consultant - Cape development and new VIP Travel Manager – Cape Town business acquisition. After Town Quantex Recruitment Group Quantex Recruitment Group Rneg. Shift work. Amadeus. Have completing his MBA, he Rneg. Exciting challenge with UK travelled or worked with UK moved to ground handling company. VIP service offered to market. Quarterly bonus structure. and later into the logistics inbound UK clients. Manage team. Excellent basic. environment. Amadeus preferred. Email: [email protected] Email: [email protected] Travel Logistics Expert - Durban  SA Tourism Senior Roving Consultant – JHB Lee Botti & Associates has appointed North Westville. Entice local & a new global Lee Botti & Associates international clients with your manager of Is variety your spice of life? events knowledge to handle communications, Market leader seeking team player logistics requirements. Would suit with sound international skills. a sales-orientated individual! Risuna Salary R18 000 ctc neg. Sal R12 000 neg. Mayimele. Email: [email protected] Email: [email protected] Prior to joining SA Tourism, Risuna worked as a TNW6180SD Senior Roving Consultant – Senior Consultant – In-House marketing manager for Northern Suburbs – Sandton SABC3. She has experience Dynamic Sales People Wanted Equity Connections cc Equity Connections cc ( Johannesburg, Cape Town & Durban) Take charge of variety of files Suit consultant with minimum in marketing research and as and where needed. Extensive five years’ experience in senior strategic planning in the Travelport Southern Africa are looking for dynamic sales people to international experience and fares corporate role. Galileo and sound advertising and media effectively manage, develop and grow business relationships with knowledge requires top senior. fares & ticketing knowledge industry. a portfolio of customers and associated organisations to achieve Email: [email protected] needed. business goals. Email: [email protected] FCm Corporate Travel Manger  Fisani Requirements Must have extensive GDS knowledge and GDS product exposure FCm Travel Expert - Johannesburg Mncube is the 2/3 years’ in-house or corporate  account team Flight Centre new gm of food Commercial awareness consulting, Matric or relevant 2 years’ sales/customer service,   Well organised with sound Competitor awareness degree/diploma, international Matric or relevant degree/diploma, and beverage  planning and prioritisation skills Proven customer travel experience. Basic, SA citizen, international travel at Fancourt  Excellent presentation and engagement skills commission, medical aid and experience. Basic, lucrative  written communication skills Hotel in George. Minimum of 3 years account provident fund. Galileo experience commission structure, medical aid  Portrays an enthusiastic and Fisani previously management or new sales essential. Email: and provident fund. Email: driven approach in building worked at the Three Cities experience within the travel [email protected] [email protected] industry relationships with key decision Madikwe River Lodge in the  makers Financial acumen is required Senior Corporate Consultant Travel Advisor – Nationally North West province and the  Able to work effectively  Ability to network at senior Gauteng - Randburg Pentravel Sheraton Hotel in Pretoria. with colleagues and lead management level, selling ideas Wendy’s Travel Personnel Looking for outstanding people and influencing decision makers. In 2008 he moved to a cross-functional Utilise your strong corporate who are highly motivated and Fancourt as senior food and Interest parties please send your CV to: consulting ability and have a driven with a focus on delivering beverage assistant. Peet Viljoen – Regional Human Resources Manager busy day working for progressive exceptional customer service. Postnet Suite 523, Private Bag X 1, Melrose Arch, 2076 travel company! Galileo essential. Benefit from great financial  Nadia Gokul has joined Alternatively e-mail to: [email protected] Quicktrav an advantage. rewards. Email: Email: [email protected] [email protected] Border Air and Lu Dowell Closing Date : Friday 06 June 2014 Representations as a sales These adverts were selected from the vacancy executive. Nadine previously section of www.travelinfo.co.za worked for The Holiday TNW7102 Factory. She will concentrate For more details contact [email protected] TNW7105 on the South American products that Border Air represents – LATAM airline Maximise your power! group and AeroMexico – as well as LDR products. Top jobs in Cape Town this week: Our quick guide to airline info Relationship Mngr gives you access to:  Sunitha CBD. Expand & maintain busy corporate relationships & work with VIP clients. • A-Z guide to eTickets Ganesh has Prior mngm exp! Amadeus/Galileo. Sal R 25 000 + benefits. • joined Jet Sizzling Senior Commissions Airways as sales CBD. Int’l routing fundi needed for brand that • Online pre-seating & check-in sells itself! Galileo ess! Sal from R 18 000. manager. requirements Res Team Leader North. Create the ideal environ for passionate • Change fee collections safari experts with your min 2 yrs mngm exp. • Credit card authorisations and Top pkg + incentives. much more... Ticketing Specialist To advertise on North. National independent agency seeks Amadeus Log on to www.travelinfo.co.za & Galileo wizard. Int’l fares knowledge ess! and click on TI Plus for more Sal to R 18 000 + benefits. info. To subscribe to this service, this page email contact Loulla Georgiades Lote Call Malika / Morne: 021 418 1084, on 011 214 7317 or [email protected] [email protected] email [email protected]. TNW7103 TNW7106

QUICK READ FOR busiest people Wednesday May 21 2014 n 19 TNW NEWS More options to US for SA travellers

Dorine Reinstein the fares on the routes Delta. “BA has the will drop, the codeshare advantage of being the OUTH Africans agreement is great news for biggest carrier in the UK but travelling to North SA travellers as it will open SAA, on the other hand, is SAmerica via London up more flight options to the biggest carrier in South will soon have access the US as well as increase Africa. Obviously, the BA-US Heading up Blue Crane Aviation are Siza Mzimela and to more than 40 new capacity on many of the partnership offers a huge Theunis Potgieter. Photo: Kate Nathan destinations in the US, routes. opportunity when it comes enhanced connections and Ben agrees, saying it will to the size of the carriers possibly even lower fares. also allow travellers to but it doesn’t necessarily New SA carrier This comes as a result of avoid congested hubs, such offer the best price option the recently announced as New York JFK or Miami for SA travellers.” From page 1 vp of passenger services, codeshare agreement BA and US said in Comair, says Susan believes Fly Blue Crane between British Airways a statement: “Bigger van der Ryst, corporate would be competition for and US Airways, which will is definitely better for communications manager, SA Express and Airlink on “Bigger is definitely initially cover nearly all of transatlantic travellers, now welcomes private their regional routes, and both carriers’ transatlantic better for transatlantic that BA’s joint business competition in the South not for FlySafair operating flights. travellers, now that agreement with American African aviation market, if domestically. “We always Ben Greeff, travel Airlines has been extended based on a level playing field said there is only room BA’s joint business manager of FCm Travel to include American’s for all competitors. “The for one [new carrier], but Solutions, says from a agreement with merger partner, US Johannesburg-Cape Town with Skywise having its value-add perspective, Airways.” The statement route is known as the trunk licence cancelled and our American Airlines has the codeshare agreement further outlines that route in the South African understanding that Fly could possibly lead to been extended to customers will be able to domestic aviation industry. Blue Crane is looking to fly more competitive fares. include US Airways.” mix and match airlines and Most new entrants would regionally, not locally, there “At the very least, it will book through one easy naturally ply their capacity is just room for FlySafair.” offer more opportunities to transaction. Schedules will and resources on routes Lorna would not reveal a find a better fare to some International. “In principle, also be improved through where an established volume launch date for FlySafair but hubs that were only served the codeshare agreement timetable co-ordination and exists.” said it would definitely be by one or two carriers means fewer connections to an increased range of hub- Lorna Terblance, FlySafair’s this year.  previously.” Ben adds that get to your final destination, to-hub flows. only time will tell whether fewer airports, fewer airport The codeshare is being these will actually become taxes, and a greater chance launched in a phased available through the to use frequent flyer miles approach, and BA codeshare agreement. “In to destinations that were customers are now able my experience, these types previously not served by to book flights on US to of alignments are aimed British Airways,” he says. Charlotte and Philadelphia brought to you by eTNW and TRAVELINFO at the corporate traveller There are other carriers from 17 European with a deeper pocket than that offer great options into destinations. The remaining that of the normal leisure the US already, says Rod flights in the codeshare will traveller.” Rutter, coo of XL Travel, be implemented in phases, Dinesh Naidoo, group such as the partnerships with all destinations to be operations director of SWG, between SAA and United included by the end of the says regardless of whether and Virgin Atlantic and European summer.  Outbound travel drops Have you noticed a decline in the demand for outbound air travel frim SA in May? Tourvest snaps up majority stake ■ Yes 69% ■ No 31% in Travel Wild, Botswana SENSE of Africa, Zimbabwe,” said Our expansion allows Tourvest Destination TDM Africa coo, Paul us to add value to Management’s (TDM) Brinkmann. “Travel Wild the operators while Windhoek wholesaler, has brings with it a bespoke, servicing them in an purchased the majority tailor-made passion increasing amount of stake in Travel Wild, that matches well with countries,” says TDM Botswana, in a move that our existing credo of ceo, Martin Wiest. “From expands the company’s exceeding customers’ a TDM perspective, the footprint in the region. expectations.” East African inbound The move will give Paul says the strategy wholesaler will be Sense of Africa an will be expanded to integrated into TDM on-ground presence include TDM’s East product value and in both Botswana and African DMC brands in services,” says Martin. Zimbabwe, thanks to an Kenya, Tanzania and The acquisition follows eTravel is the ITC market leader in South Africa and assists senior Travel Consultants and Travel business owners to realise their dreams. alliance with Travel Wild, Uganda, both on a the recent announcement If you have ever dreamt of owning your own travel business or would Zimbabwe, through Travel product as well as service that Tourvest Holdings, like to cut costs by doing away with your IATA license and improve your Wild, Botswana. deliverables level, each a separate division, current business efficiencies then you should call eTravel. We run the “Tourvest Destination learning from each other. had bought Three Cities back office for over 200 Independent Travel Companies and specialise in making your travel business a success by offering the best commissions, Management, through “The expansion of TDM Management, making overrides & a comprehensive support structure. If you have a client base, Sense of Africa, into Africa sees its ability Tourvest’s African 5 years retail travel experience or already own your own has embarked on to authentically convince Hotels and Adventures business but want to make more, then contact us! an expansion of its the customer that we can the second largest You’ll be amazed at how easy it is! geographical footprint add maximum value to tourism hotel and lodge Contact Tammy on 021 521 9220 011 460 6300 / 072 378 1105 within Africa, initially the customer, enhancing management company in or [email protected] within Botswana and travellers’ experience. South Africa. 

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20 n Wednesday May 21 2014 QUICK READ FOR DECISION-MAKERS