SouThERN AFRICA’S TRAVEL NEWS WEEKLY
April 7 2010 I No. 2101
It’s just like being at home, except someone else makes the bed in the morning.
Reservations: 0800 113 790 or www.citylodge.co.za Galileo Access: CG,Amadeus Access.CG
INSIDE
TRAVEL NEWS WEEKLY
TNW5094
NEWS
NEWS
fEaTurE
Arik Air
BoB WilliAMS dieS
Tour operATorS
New system is agent friendly
Travel industry loses ‘ideas’ man
All-inclusive still popular
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Page 10
Beware the defaulters! Natalia thomsoN
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Cimbing to new heights Have you ever dreamt of climbing Mount Kilimanjaro? African Encounters is challenging members of SA’s travel sector to join its Climb Kili Campaign 2010 to raise funds to redevelop eight community crèches in two informal settlements south of Johannesburg. African Encounters is seeking up to 20 eager climbers to be part of this initiative. Climbers have to cover the cost of their travel arrangements at a discounted price of R15 500 and raise R10 000 towards the cause. Already on the climb are directors of African Encounters, Gary Smith and Ewan opperman. The climb takes place from August 20 to 26 Photo: Tiyana Huysamen
‘Crazy’ Acsa hike given the chop Natalia thomsoN SENSE has prevailed as Acsa this week heard that it had been granted permission to increase its tariffs by only 40,7% and not the 133% it had requested. In January, TNW reported (January 20) that Acsa fees, including passenger charges, landing fees and rentals would be hiked from R81 per passenger per single trip to R185 if Acsa had its way. The proposed hike created
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such a furore that Iata added Acsa to its “hall of shame”. But the Regulating Committee put a spanner in Acsa’s works by granting it a total increase of 40,7% for 2010/2011, 25,6% in 2011/2012 and a 16,2% increase in 2012/2013. Acsa’s proposed 133% tariff hike, it said, was aimed at prefunding its R19bn infrastructure development. This is despite its having paid billions in dividends to its shareholders in the past. n
EVER ticket for a travel agency that has gone into default! That’s the word from BSP & Fin Consulting’s Linda Dempster as several Cape-based agencies alleged this month they had been conned by Parow agency, De Vuyst Travel. TNW (March 24) reported on De Vuyst’s recent failure to submit visa applications to the Australian High Commission, despite having been given all the relevant documentation and payments from applicants. Since then, the agency and Marie De Vuyst have come under the spotlight, allegedly for landing agencies that had been ticketing on their behalf in hot water with ADMs of substantial amounts. Absolut Travel owner, Debbie Scott, explains: “We received two ‘Request for CCCFs’ from banks as credit cards that had been inserted into the bookings for issue were being disputed. We spoke to [De Vuyst] who said they would fax through the CCCFs. Three days later we hadn’t received anything from them, but we had received more disputes.” Marie allegedly swiped the card in front of the client and would then send the ticket to be issued a few months later, inserting the same credit card. Clients would then go back to the agency with a double
debit upon which Marie would allegedly blame the airline and promise to sort it out. Eventually the client disputed the charge and the ticketing agency would receive an ADM. Malcolm Townes, Marie’s husband, told TNW this week that he was aware of and “sad” about what had happened but that much of the problem had been “corrected”. “We owned this agency for over 20 years but since most of our business was leisure we were affected by the downturn and lost a lot of travellers to the Internet. I’m really very sad that people have come short.” Several allegations have also been lodged on consumer watchdog site Hello Peter. In one case, the consumer alleges that Marie promised to arrange forex for him and took R10 000 in cash without issuing any receipts. “I went to the agency to collect my forex and spoke to her and Malcolm. Suddenly they knew nothing about the transaction and couldn’t find any documentation. They told me to come back but they have since disappeared.” Another report claims that Marie “scammed” two elderly pensioners out of R50 000 for a Starlight Cruise for their 63rd wedding anniversary, which they were never booked on. “They were never issued with any receipts.” There is a reason Iata stops
defaulting agencies from trading, explains Linda. “They haven’t paid their biggest creditor (BSP) and if that happens, why would you think they would pay you?” Linda says it is very difficult for an agency to lose its licence and resume trading. “If an agency runs its business correctly it should never let a ticket leave the office without receiving payment first. Travel is not like other businesses where you allow 30 days’ grace to pay. It should be run on a COD basis.” If you want to ticket for another agency, get a cash guarantee to hold and only issue tickets to that value, topping it up as you go along, advises Linda. “And only accept a client’s credit card if you get your own authorisation from the card company, even if the client comes to your agency to sign the CCCF.” The case comes as no conclusions have yet been reached on proposed changes to local Iata guarantee requirements (TNW September 23, 2009). Agencies were told at the time that the Agency Programme Joint Council (APJC) had proposed either a R250 000 or R500 000 flat guarantee, varying according to the agents’ payment cycles. This was vehemently disputed by the retail travel industry and discussions are still taking place to finalise the guarantee. n
NEWS
For the record
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In the issue dated March 31, TNW incorrectly referred to Cathay Pacific’s transit time from Johannesburg to Bangkok as two hours and five minutes. The actual transit time is one hour and 10 minutes. TNW apologises for the incorrect information.
New Arik Air system more agent friendly Natalia thomsoN
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RIK Air is finally migrating to a new system that will see local representatives able to assist agents with their bookings. From end of April, advises country manager, Rodger Whittle, Arik will be able to
claim and make changes to PNRs on behalf of travel agents using the new Mercator system. “With the move to a standalone office in Sandton, we will be setting up a specific agents’ helpdesk with a dedicated number.” Meanwhile, the airline reminds agents that it will
be introducing a new Airbus A330-200 aircraft between Johannesburg and Lagos, replacing the Boeing 737-800 currently being used on the route. The aircraft will have a different business-class configuration (2-2-2) with a seat pitch of 157cm and an angled lie-flat bed. n
Will you be there? TRAVEL News Weekly will be hosting a travel agent workshop day on April 16 alongside the very first World Holiday and Travel Fair, being held at Johannesburg’s Coca-Cola Dome from April 16 to 18. Among the sessions on offer for agents are: ● Internet marketing for your business ● Sell more cruising ● Closing the deal in a downturn ● Spotting and preventing fraud
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Rubes® By Leigh Rubin
● The Consumer Protection Act ● Sell more Mauritius The trade workshops will host a range of experts in these topics and provide a platform for agents to ask their questions and get real answers. So if you’re interested in any of these workshops, either visit www.worldtravelfair.co.za or email nataliat@ nowmedia.co.za. Registration for the trade is complimentary. n
Kenya Airways rejoins AFRAA Natasha tippel KENYA Airways (KQ) has rejoined the membership of African Airlines Association (AFRAA) after a six-year hiatus. “Six years ago, Kenya Airways withdrew from AFRAA due to principled views on certain issues. However, due to the change in AFRAA leadership and a commitment to address the pertinent issues, KQ is
“Yes, yes, I can see he’s off his rocker, but for billing purposes, we need to come up with something that sounds a little more clinical.”
TRAVEL NEWS WEEKLY
Published by Lugan Investments (Pty) Ltd trading as Now Media Printed by Juka Printing (Pty) Ltd Phone: (011) 327-4062 Fax: (011) 327-4094 E-mail: tnw@nowmedia.co.za Web: www.nowmedia.co.za Address: Now Media Centre, 32 Fricker Road, Illovo Boulevard, Illovo, Johannesburg. PO Box 55251, Northlands, 2116, South Africa.
EDITORIAL Editor: Natalia Thomson nataliat@nowmedia.co.za Deputy Editor: Natasha Tippel natashat@nowmedia.co.za Sub-Editor: Ann Braun annb@nowmedia.co.za Cape Town Editor: Hilka Birns hilkab@nowmedia.co.za Journalists: Jeanette Phillips jeanettep@nowmedia.co.za Melody Brandon melodyb@nowmedia.co.za Photo Journalist: Tijana Huysamen tijanah@nowmedia.co.za Founding Editors: John H Marsh (1914-1996) Leona Marsh (1923-2003) ADVERTISING Sales Manager Kate Nathan Advertising Coordinator: Natalie Walker PRODUCTION Design Head: Brendon Bester
katen@nowmedia.co.za nataliew@nowmedia.co.za
brendonb@nowmedia.co.za
SUbSCRIPTIONS: Subs tvlsubs@nowmedia.co.za Annual Subscription: RSA R490.00 Foreign R730,00 SADC R545,00 TNW Domestic may receive up to 10 copies per subscription to one address
2 n Wednesday April 7 2010
pleased to come back to this association,” said Dr Titus Naikuni, group md and ceo of KQ. He further called on the association leadership to maintain accountability of its operations. Kenya Airways Southern Africa area manager, Rosemary Adogo, also said she believed it was a step in the right direction and looked forward to a strong working relationship with
the organisation. Noting an ‘all-talk, no-action’ culture that had bedevilled the association, the new secretary general of AFRAA, Nick Fadugba, said very little had been achieved by AFRAA in the past. He committed to KQ that the association would actively seek collaboration with aviation training institutions in Africa to generate muchneeded synergy. n
Travelinfo,s Shanaaz Khan selects the top specials from Travelinfo ● Virgin Atlantic Airways. London special fare from R3 150 return. Minimum stay is three days and maximum stay is one year. Valid for sales until April 15 and for travel from April 21 to May 31. Excludes taxes. ● Kumuka Worldwide Travel.. Europe. Eastern Explorer special deal from R9 112 per person sharing (save R1 608 per person). Includes fully escorted 10-day tour, nine breakfasts, five dinners, tours of major cities, all surcharges, tolls and taxes. Excludes flights. Highlights include Rome, Venice, Split, Ljubljana and Vienna. Departs April 30. ● Island Voyage Tours is offering a sevennight Zanzibar package from R7 880 per person sharing. The rate includes return flights ex-Johannesburg, airport taxes, return transfers and accommodation with breakfast at Arabian Nights. Valid until June 30. ● Southern Sun Hotels. Special opening rate at the Stay Easy Pietermaritzburg of R799 per room per night. The rate is for one, two or three guests per room and includes a continental breakfast. Valid until May 31.
Specials Spot
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While you take care of travel, we take care of technology. For more information Call 011 548 7300 or e-mail solutions@amadeus.co.za TNW3892SD
NEWS
Travel’s Mr Entrepreneur dies
23463 Travelport TNW editorial 2/1/10 2:33 PM Page 3 C
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Travel Talk
challenging ItFollowing is unlikely athat the Worldyear Cup for travel in 2009, plagued by the will have a sustained impact on effects of the economic recession travel and accommodation and swine flu, those in thecosts industry post-event, says for Gary Broomberg, will be hoping a rapid recovery VP for Southern in Commercial 2010. Indeed, IATA’s latest report Africa. Prices return has hinted atshould an increase into business normal winter rates soon after travel following a strong rise in the tournament. A lookmonths. into the world trade in recent Developing markets appear to be Travelport crystal ball explains improving morefor quickly possible reasons this...than some ofDuring the major economies, with Asia, the World Cup, expected South America and availability African increases in cost and countries encouraging will restrict showing business travel but itgrowth. will quickly recover after the event as corporate South Africa In South Africa, it is likely that we kicks back. Although this pent-up will see more consolidation, with demand help fillseeking some postsmaller will agencies the tournament capacity, it should be relative security of their larger atcompatriots. previous corporate rates. Some Bigger groups will savvy corporate travel providers continue to look at strengthening affiliations with global groups. may even have negotiated better than usual post-World Cup deals. The FIFA Worldvisitor Cup will provide a International demand boostbe over theof traditional winter won’t much a factor after trough and hopefully some the tournament. Many, also who’ve longer-term growth forwant the local travelled a long way, will airline, hospitality and related to do some sightseeing and local industries and the broader South touring, many won’t wait until is African but economy. Another benefit after the event. Instead post-event increased cooperation between demand be determined by is African will airlines. GDS content which face with each more other in beingteams bolstered the final. A Germany/ England final interlining and sharing agreements might attractconnections lots of fans,and many of to improve services for 2010, which whom willthe stayadvantages on for a fewofdays will extend wellbut beyond theto or even a week, it’s hard tournament. see that this will significantly affect pricing over the following few Travel agents can expect to see more months. full-content agreements from major Despite the long school holiday, carriers and new airline participants
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on Galileo as they seek to regain some of the ground lost in 2009 and capitalise on the World Cup. Although South Africa will be centre stage during 2010, there will also be opportunities for other African countries, with airline GDS sales showing growth in several countries. South African travel agents should be well placed to capitalise on this. The coming year will also see a number of new products it is unlikely thatinnovative the World Cup will introduced to the region, including: result in an upsurge in domestic Universal Desktop: a unified demand. Many South AfricansGDS will desktop that seamlessly hunker down at home andintegrates have content directly from a variety to find ways of entertaining the of suppliers. Agentsthat willtravel no longer children. Those mayhave to logto into different systems but can drive lesser-known destinations access everything from their onewhile some families may opt for stop-desktop, saving time, longer holidays in neighbouring improving service and efficiency. countries. KDS Portal 6: the latest version of a A final consideration is that corporate self-booking tool that car hire firms and airlines may be enables travel management better able to capacity companies to manage book and manage than hoteliers. Airlines will shorttravel arrangements while reducing lease charter aircraft duringlow-cost the costs. It combines Galileo, World Cup and simply hand them as carrier, hotel, car and rail content backas when demand normalises. well agency and corporate negotiated rates, presented in a Some car hire companies single display. their fleets by have increased refreshingantheir inventory Traversa: online bookingearly, tool that while still keeping older vehicles allows business travellers the ability onboard. don’t shop to quickly But andhoteliers cost-effectively havemake this flexibility with bricks and and their own reservations mortar, so expect to see someto while enabling corporations good accommodation offers maintain travel policies, maximise and possibly some packaging, supplier agreements and achieve particularly in the upper-end of the high online adoption. It is currently market, used by after IBM. the final whistle.
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Natalia thomsoN
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HE South African travel industry’s very own ideas man, Bob Williams (59 years), died last week after years of battling a heart condition. Fondly remembered for his dynamic marketing flair and vision, Bob was instrumental in introducing new technological ideas to the world of the retail travel agent. Starting his career in travel in the 1970s, Bob’s first job in a heavily Iata-regulated travel sector was to hand deliver brown envelopes airlines had stuffed with cash to travel agency managers to thank them for their ‘support’. In the 1980s, Bob was credited with being the first person to bring what were then called ‘bucket shop’ airfares to South Africa through his company, Williamsworld. This company then evolved into Just the Ticket, the first real airfare discounter in this country. He was also the first person to use a GDS to access overseas airfares while the rest of the industry worked off Safari. Bob became GSA for World Airways, the first US carrier to fly directly to SA since Pan American, but it wasn’t long before the airline discontinued its flights and Bob returned to the world of travel management. But it was in 1999 that, together with now ceo of eTravel, Garth Wolff, he turned his attention to the Internet and set up eTravel as the first wholly online travel agency in South Africa. Along with Garth, Bob pioneered the concept of individual travel agents working independently under
Bob Williams (left), pictured with former business partner Garth Wolff to celebrate the launch of eTravel in 1999 his banner with their backoffice operations taken care of and benefiting from the company’s bulk-buying ability. “Bob did business differently and was such an exciting person to be around,” says Garth. “He had a major impact on the travel industry and was a man with vision.” Serving on several Asata committees, Bob was also the man behind the Asata Diners Club Awards. Always the socialite, Bob played an important role in the industry in the early days when travel was “fun”, says Jenny Kearney, Jenuwen Travel Promotions. “He was an entrepreneur, innovative and creative, and played a big part in travel trade events. Bob was also a founding member of Gentlemen In Travel (GIT), a lunch club for the doyens in SA’s travel sector.” And where others saw obstacles, Bob would see only possibilities, adds Moira Smith, formerly of Thompsons Tours. “He was one of he most innovative and interesting men – a true visionary.”
“I personally learnt a lot from him with his enterprising nature and I’m sure there were lots of others who experienced the same,” says Errol Matodes, formerly of SAA and now Crackerjack Sports Tours. After suffering a series of heart attacks in 2001 and 2002, Bob went into semiretirement selling his shares in eTravel and creating a new online business called Travel on Line, which remained as an ITC until June 2009. Despite his glamorous, open nature, Bob was an intensely private person who loved to spend time at home with his dogs and in his garden. “He was a loyal friend and hard worker,” says co-founder of the Travel Trade Sports Committee Bev Pamensky. “We met in 1980 and our friendship was unique and special in so many ways. Bob had a heart of gold, an incredible personality and sense of humour, and he lived life to the fullest. The travel industry has lost an icon, an amazing visionary, and it is difficult to imagine our industry without ‘the’Bob Williams.” n
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4 n Wednesday April 7 2010
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to the point
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Machu Picchu reopened to tourists on April 1. The popular tourist site in Peru had been closed following flash flooding and landslides that washed away the railway line that connected it to the town. Tourists will have to use Piscauccucho as a departing point until the beginning of May when Ollantaytambo is expected to reopen.
City Lodge opens in Fourways City Lodge recently celebrated the official opening of its Fourways property on the corner of Witkoppen and Montecasino Boulevard. The new hotel features 211 rooms with air-conditioning, flat-screen TVs and satellite channels, en-suite bathrooms, tea- and coffee-making facilities, electronic safe and work desk. The property also features a coffee shop, bar, fitness room, infinity pool and boardroom facilities able to accommodate 12 and 14 delegates respectively, with laptop connectivity, conference call capability and flat-screen TV. Celebrating the opening of the hotel are City Lodge Hotels’ divisional director of sales and marketing, Peter Schoeman, and sales and marketing director for American Express Foreign Exchange, Blacky Komani Photo: Natasha Tippel
Freeway Holidays upgrades credit card facility Natasha Tippel
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REEWAY Holidays has implemented a 3D secure credit card transaction facility that is compliant with ‘Verified by Visa’.
TIC - a member of the Blood Care Foundation If your client is hospitalised in a foreign country, and requires a blood transfusion, their last concern should be whether the blood has been screened for HIV, hepatitis B and C, and malaria. However, there are often shortages of safe blood in developing countries, which could result in your client receiving unscreened blood. To ensure that our travellers have access to safe blood, TIC is a member of the Blood Care Programme, operated by the Swiss-based Blood Care TNW3915SD
Foundation. The Blood Care Programme provides screened blood to its members in any part of the world, and TIC will do our utmost to ensure that your client is provided with it. As this benefit is unique to TIC products, travel agents should ensure that they sell their clients a TIC travel insurance policy when they travel abroad.
Verified by Visa is a new security system that notifies online retailers and banks that you are a genuine cardholder when you shop online. It allows you to use a personal password to confirm
your identity and protect your Visa card when using your card on the Internet, providing greater reassurance and security. Go to www.visacemea.com for more information. ■
From the Benchmark... Advocate Louis Nel talks about training… Training must focus on and draw the attention of employees to specific actions they must take when dealing with the consumer: ● They must point out to the consumer any provisions that require the consumer to accept any liability or risk, which limit the risk of the supplier, contain any form of indemnity or the acknowledgement of any fact; ● If the consumer is to participate in any activity that entails a risk that is unusual, could result in injury or death, or is of the following nature*, it must not only be drawn to the attention of the consumer, but the ‘nature and potential effect’ of the
risk must be explained and the assent of the consumer must be obtained, ideally by signature; ● The consumer must also be given adequate opportunity to receive and comprehend the provision or notice; ● Any apparent misapprehension must be clarified; ● The customer must be given a copy of the contract ‘in a paper form or in a printable electronic medium’. * The presence of which the consumer could not reasonably be expected to be aware or notice, or which an ordinarily
Advocate Louis Nel alert consumer could not reasonably be expected to notice or contemplate in the circumstances. ■
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6 n Wednesday April 7 2010
QUICK READ FOR DECISION-MAKERS
NEWS
UK eases immigration rules Melody Brandon
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HANGES in the UK’s immigration points system are good news for South Africans wanting to travel and work in the UK. From April 6 the changes in the points-based system will see applicants able to get points for their bachelor’s degree – previously a Masters degree was needed to qualify. “The points-based system has been adjusted, which means highly skilled
applicants and students will be able to obtain a working visa,” said Ed Bossley, British High Commission Pretoria Visa Services – regional manager Southern Africa UK Border Agency. Ed said the changes applied to all visa applicants under the points-based system, not just South African passport holders. “We have always said we would run our immigration system for the benefit of the UK and that is what we are doing. The changes we
are making will build on an already robust system. The strength of a points-based system is the flexibility to predict and respond to events. By utilising this flexibility we are now ensuring that only those we need to come to the UK to work can do so,” said UK minister of Borders and Immigration, Phil Woolas. For more information on tiers 1 and 2 of the points-based system, visit www.ukba.homeoffice. gov.uk ■
RwandAir is back in Jo’burg! RwandAir celebrated the relaunch of its direct flights between Johannesburg and Kigali at a celebration at the Southern Sun Grayston Hotel in Sandton on March 10. The presentation was attended by local travel agents, tour operators and representatives of the Rwanda community in Johannesburg and officals of the Rwanda High Commission in South Africa. During a lucky draw, Rookshana Abdul (right) from Formiss Harvey World and Johanna Mdhluli (left) SA Reynolds Travel, each won return tickets on RwandAir, which they accepted from Rwanda’s High Commissioner to South Africa, Ignatius Kamali Photo: Jeanette Phillips
Sinfonia and Melody back for 2010/2011 SA cruise season Melody Brandon TO meet increased demand, MSC Cruises South Africa has announced it will be operating the MSC Sinfonia and the MSC Melody out of South African ports over the 2010/2011 summer season.
The 2 100-passenger Sinfonia enjoyed a successful season out of Durban and will be back for a second extended cruise season from November 2010 to May 2011. She will be joined by the Melody, which can accommodate 1 500 guests.
“The phenomenal response to the MSC Sinfonia this past season has prompted MSC Cruises to boost its presence in the South African cruising market. With the realisation that it could support a second ship, the MSC Melody was the obvious choice, as she has
proven to be so popular in the South African and Indian Ocean waters,” said Allan Foggitt, marketing manager of Starlight Cruises. The Sinfonia will continue its itinerary around the Indian Ocean islands while the Melody will offer cruisers new and varied options.
Itineraries will feature cruises out of Cape Town and longer cruises out of Durban, calling at Madagascar, Mauritius, Réunion and the Seychelles. Early booking incentives are offered for both ships and children under 18 cruise and eat free. ■
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QUICK READ FOR busiest people
Wednesday April 7 2010 n 7
AGENTZONE
SPECIAL FARE
To Ndola and Lusaka
Are you asking the right questions? Local tour operators share their ideas on what’s important to ask when selling packages… Sun International Dreams:
One way fare
R540 plus approx.Taxes – R774 = R1314
Return fare
R1080 plus approx. Taxes – R1189 = R2269 FARE PRICES EXCLUDE ZAMBEZI AIRPORT TAX OF US$25 Selling and Travel Period: 24 2010 – 31 May 2010. Inc.March RSA Taxes and Fuel Surcharge; excludes Zambian Tax USD 25; TERMS AND CONDITIONS APPLY non-refundable; subject to availability, Terms & Conditions apply
Zambezi A I R L I N E S
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● What facilities do your clients expect to find in their hotel room? (Tea, coffee facilities, satellite TV, room service, air-conditioning.) ● What facilities do they expect to find at their hotel? (Swimming pool, gym, golf course, babysitters.) ● Do clients prefer a relaxing or an active holiday? ● Do clients want to be close to the beach and attractions? ● How far are they willing to travel? ● How long do they want to be away and have they taken into account the distance to the location? ● What time of year would clients like to travel? What weather are they expecting at the destination?
World Leisure Holidays:
● Is there a particular resort they have in mind? Have they travelled to the destination before and where did they stay on that occasion? ● How long do they plan to stay for? ● Do they have a set budget or is it flexible? ● What type of accommodation would they like? More luxurious and upscale or more cost effective? ● Where would they like the accommodation to be located? If it is a ski holiday do they want ski in/ski out or village accommodation? If it’s in
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andy’s ounsel
Hi guys! Welcome back to my column!
What do you do when clients need to book various flights for one trip? Do you still issue separate tickets for each route? Simplify your life and issue all flights on one Hahn Air e-ticket (HR-169). More than 210 partner airlines offer a large number of interline options. Just check the ticketing availability on
www.hahnair.com - “Quick check”. After all it’s as simple as “Hahn Air. One Globe. One Ticket.” If you like to learn more about Hahn Air’s services visit us at www.hahnair.com
Austria Connection:
● Find out how they want to travel or what they want to do. Send clients a brochure that will give them a basic idea of possibilities and will enable them to come back with a more specific request. ● Find out if the client has preferences regarding hotels – traditional or modern, small or big.
Beachcomber:
● Are they familiar with the destination they are traveling to? If yes, ask which area they prefer. If no, explain about the destination and its attractions. ● Are they looking for a hotel with high-quality amenities within their price range or would they prefer some luxury? ● Expectations for children and teenagers.
● Room arrangements if it is a family – some hotels offer specific family sleeping arrangements. This can affect costs. ● Sporting facilities. ● All-inclusive packages. ● Clients staying longer than the normal package – ensure they know what facilities the hotel has available. ● Seasonality – clients do not necessarily know the weather patterns. ● If clients want to spend a lot of time out of the hotel they might want basic accommodation and to spend more on sightseeing. ● Transport – standard or private transfers? Are baby seats required? ● Passport validity, visas and insurance. ● The ages of the children at time of travel. ● Airline preference, if any. ● Clients need to understand the location of the hotel to know what taxis are going to cost should they want to move around. ● What is the most important part of the holiday to the client? Is it the room, beach, food?
Freeway Holidays:
● Will this be the first visit to the destination? ● Are there any special meal requirements? ● Does the client require any special seating?
AGENT ALERTS n CX reduces fuel surcharges
EFFECTIVE April 1, Cathay Pacific will reduce its fuel surcharges. Flight coupons between Hong Kong and Africa, South West Pacific, North America, Europe, the Middle East and the South Asian subcontinent will be charged at US$48,10 (R355) and all other sectors at US$10,40 (R78).
n Jet Airways introduces incentive scheme
JET Airways has introduced its ‘Jet ticket for Riches’ incentive scheme for agents. To qualify, agents need to sell at least 50 Jet Airways tickets to India, Nepal, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Bangkok, Hong Kong, Singapore or Kuala Lumpur until April 15 for outbound travel by May 31.
n EgyptAir removes booking classes
See you next month!
Candy
Candy Kasonkomona Hahn Air Regional Director Africa e-mail: c.kasonkomona@hahnair.com c.kasonkomona@hahnair.co
If you like to learn more about Hahn Air’s services visit us at www.hahnair.com
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8 n Wednesday April 7 2010
Mauritius do they want the east or west coast? ● Are they travelling with children? If so, what are their ages? ● Do the clients have any special requirements, such as honeymoon, birthday, fireplace in the room, Jacuzzi? ● Would the clients like to prebook any optional excursions? This is definitely an area where agents could earn more commission as clients end up booking these services at the resort and these could be pre-booked and commissions could be earned on them.
EGYPTAIR has removed the K/V/L/Q classes on selected flights, with immediate effect. All GDS systems have been updated accordingly.
n QR increases fuel surcharge
QATAR Airways has announced a network-wide 5% increase in fuel surcharge levels, effective April 1. The change applies to all markets except Japan and Hong Kong.
See Travelinfo for more details QUICK READ FOR DECISION-MAKERS
NEWS QM2 comes to Cape Town The Queen Mary 2 (QM2), dubbed the “greatest ocean liner afloat” by its owners, Cunard Cruise Line, dwarfed every other vessel in Table Bay when it made an inaugural overnight stop at Cape Town recently. Curious Capetonians came to have a look and take pictures of the longest, widest, tallest and most expensive ship ever to visit South Africa. The R6bn (£550m) QM2 stands 72m tall, is 345m long, 41m wide (45m at the bridge wings), weighs 151 400 gross tons and carries 2 600 passengers and 1 238 crew on its 17 decks. Photo: Hilka Birns
2010 SA cruise calendar Hilka Birns
S
OUTH Africans are being spoilt for choice this year with at least 11 cruise ships calling at local ports and more to come early next year.
Among these are:
● P&O Cruises’ four-star Aurora: April 4 to April 19, 15 nights, Cape Town to Southampton. ● Cunard Line’s four-star QM2: March 25 to April 22, 28 days, Cape Town to Southampton. ● Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines’ three-star Balmoral: March 31 to April 21, 21 nights Cape Town to Dover. ● MSC Cruises’ four-star MSC Sinfonia: April 1 to April 22. The vessel returns to its home port in Italy after a successful
season of domestic cruising from Durban – 21 nights, Durban to Livorno. ● Regent Seven Seas Cruises’ five-star Seven Seas Voyager: April 3 to April 15, 12 nights Seychelles to Cape Town, departing again on April 15 from Cape Town for 27-night cruise, arriving on May 12 in Fort Lauderdale. ● Princess Cruises’ four-star Ocean Princess: April 5 to May 7, 32 nights Singapore to Cape Town; May 7 to June 7, Cape Town to Dover. Ocean Princess returns on a 25-night cruise from Rome to Cape Town from October 27 to November 21; 31 nights, Cape Town to Singapore from November 21 to December 22; or 47 nights, Cape Town to Bangkok, ending January 7, 2011.
● RMS St Helena: set departures from Cape Town throughout the year. ● Holland America Line’s fivestar MS Westerdam and MS Noordam will act as floating hotels for soccer fans in Cape Town, Durban and Port Elizabeth during the June/ July FIFA World Cup. From July 12 to July 26 MS Westerdam offers a 14-night cruise from Cape Town to Rotterdam. ● Regent Seven Seas’ fivestar Seven Seas Mariner: November 8 to December 3, 25 nights Dubai to Cape Town; December 3 to December 17, 14 nights Cape Town to Rio; or until January 4, 32 nights Cape Town to Fort Lauderdale. ● Oceania Cruises’ four-starplus Nautica: November 11 to December 11, 30 nights Istanbul to Cape Town. n
Introducing
Nkhwazi Holidays Air Malawi’s In-House Tours & Packages To Malawi For More information contact: Felie or Bridget 011 390 1211 felie@airmalawi.com bridget@airmalawi.com TNW5058
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Freeway Holidays ● +70 000 Hotels ● Sightseeing Tours ● Transfers Search and book the most popular sightseeing tours, activities and attractions right here on www.freewayholidays.co.za. There’s a whole range of different options including walking, cycling, coach, helicopter, cruise and even hot air balloon tours - or why not take in a dinner show, a tourist attraction or a tourist pass to make your clients stay a truly memorable one.
www.freewayholidays.co.za email: holidays@freeway.co.za 0861 flynow / 011 661 0112
Register your free account today on www.freewayholidays.co.za Bookings couldn’t be easier! Simply Search and Book Sightseeing Tours, Hotels & Transfers Online.
Freeway Holidays – Your 24/7 Online Tour Operator. QUICK READ FOR bUSIESt pEOplE
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Tour
operators
2010 has started off on a positive note with consumers loosening their belts and bookings picking up. However, while sales are increasing, agents and operators need to keep the lines of communication open to ensure that they are able to seal the deal. TNW reports...
All-inclusive is still popular Melody Brandon
B
OOKINGS are up but South African travellers are still looking for more bang for their buck when it comes to travel options. “There has been a definite upward trend in bookings in the first months of 2010. We have seen a 12% increase over last year this time,” says Beachcomber marketing manager, Colleen Broadley. Owner of Austria Connection, Inge Dobihal, believes a stronger rand and deferred travel plans from 2009 have contributed to more South Africans wanting to travel in 2010. “The booking trends this year show extreme contrasts. While a number of clients decided at comparatively short notice to travel early due to airfare prices over the Soccer World Cup, others are making bookings long in advance and paying for it while the rand is strong.” Md of Travcorp SA, Theresa Szejwallo, says an increase in passenger numbers can be seen throughout its brands. “Our premier brand, Insight Vacations, had an exceptional month in February with a 210% increase in passenger numbers, while Trafalgar increased passenger numbers on its first-class products and saw a smaller increase on its Cost Saver programme. “The big surprise is Contiki, which seems to grow year after year,” she says, adding that the trends indicate that those South Africans who put off their travel plans in 2009 are looking to travel in 2010. All tour operators agree that allinclusive packages are in high demand. “No matter how you book, an all-inclusive holiday with accommodation, meals, transport and sightseeing is far more attractive and hassle free,” explains Theresa. Holiday Factory marketing manager, Flora Fubbs, agrees: “All-inclusive holidays are a huge draw card as they allow travellers to plan their budget upfront for their entire trip. Resorts offering complimentary golf packages are also in high demand.” John Ridler, pr manager for Thompsons Holidays, says added bonuses in the form of extra nights, additional meals and free use of facilities and day tours are all popular with travellers. Alexis Bekker, sales, marketing and
10 n Wednesday April 7 2010
product manager at World Leisure Holidays, agrees: “Clients have definitely become bargain shoppers and are looking for value-adds across the range of products, from free night offers to ‘kids stay free’. I think we will see more of these specials as the Soccer World Cup nears.”
Communication is vital
While bookings are on the increase compared with last year, open communication and team effort are needed for tour operators and agents to succeed in 2010. “I think both parties need to work together,” says Sun International Dreams area sales executive for the Western Cape, Vaughan Ewels. “Building a solid relationship with a tour operator has proved to be beneficial. Sales reps visit agents for a reason – to give them updates, inform them of changes, give them information on current specials and to address complaints.” He adds that tour operators need to respond to quote queries from agents as soon as they can. “I think many agents are under immense pressure with time constraints, direct bookings online and other competitors. Tour operators need to understand this and converting a quote into a booking for an agent should be top priority.” Retail travel manager from Thompsons Travel Westville, Gail Louw, agrees that communication and interaction with sales reps are vital. “I think communication between agents and tour operators would be improved if we were to interact frequently. Tour operators specialise in a certain area or product, where the travel consultant is expected to know the world! Tour operators often give agents ideas and alternatives that help us sell.” The biggest bone of contention for tour operators is a lack of information and inaccurate information sent through when requesting a quote. “We have often found that the travel agent does not gather enough information on the client’s request and then contacts an operator with a very vague enquiry. This causes the quoting process to slow down as the operator then needs to go back to the agent to get more information on the request,” says md of African Encounters, Gary Smith.
One-Stop Touring Shop has you covered! The One-Stop Touring Shop, which covers Trafalgar, Insight Vacations, Uniworld and Contiki, keeps agents up to date with everything they need to know about the brands. The service includes one point of contact for all agents’ touring requirements, product training on a range of products and sales support. The team will show agents how to increase their sales, knowledge and profitability and at client evenings, the team will join agents and their clients to promote the range of products on offer. Pictured here (front from left), are Jolene Hawley (KZN), Natalie Farnell (national sales manager) and Tania Correia (Cape Town) and (back from left) Alex Bunton (Gauteng) and Liezel Bouwer (Cape Town). Also on hand to help you are Lucy Strydom (KZN), Petro Janse Van Rensburg (Pretoria), Ryan McColl (Cape Town), Mpho Moloi (Gauteng)
South Africans look to East Europe Melody Brandon WHEN one thinks of travelling to Europe, destinations that spring to mind are Paris, Rome and London but there is a trend towards exploring less wellknown eastern European countries too. “I think many South Africans have travelled through most of Europe and want to explore something different,” says Inge Dobihal. She says Austria Connection has seen an increased interest in destinations such as Poland, Slovenia and Romania. “These are fascinating countries and many of them are Schengen members, which makes them easier to enter,” she says. Poland’s fascinating
cities date back to the 12th century, but today’s vibrant city atmosphere is in contrast to what many would expect. “The city offers street cafés, pubs and clubs, harmonised with old buildings,” says Inge. Meanwhile, Slovenia has been dubbed ‘the Switzerland of the east’, offering exquisite scenery, while Romania offers an interesting combination of beautiful scenery, interesting old cities and art. “We are excited to be offering these products. As much as it is a new area of interest for South African travellers, it is a new product for us and it is great to see so many bookings coming in,” says Inge.
QUICK READ FOR DECISION-MAKERS
Discover moments that will capture your soul. THE ROYAL LIVINGSTONE ZAMBIA
R7 735 From
excl. approx airport tax of R1540 p/p
p/p sharing
Pay for 3 nights, stay for 4
With Dreams your journey into the adventure and romance of The Royal Livingstone will be uninterrupted, allowing you to savour every moment of this palatial Zambian getaway. A place where you are waited on hand and foot and your only pressing engagement is sundowners, overlooking a natural world wonder: Victoria Falls.
• Nature walks through the falls resort • 4 Nights & breakfast incl. • Star gazing on the Royal Livingstone • Includes flights, transfers & insurance lawns (Friday nights only) • Unlimited access to Vic Falls & park fees • High tea at the Royal Livingstone Lounge • Complementary Dreams travel bag
ZAMBEZI SUN ZAMBIA
R5 205 From
p/p sharing
Pay for 3 nights, stay for 4
excl. approx airport tax of R1540 p/p
Let our Dream Makers take you on an adventure into the heart of Africa. Resting on the banks of the mystical Zambezi River, a mere stone’s throw away from the thunder of the Victoria Falls, the Zambezi Sun embraces the warmth and generosity of the African continent. Here, time is meaningless and life enchanted.
Call one of our dream makers on 011 217 5555 or visit suninternationaldreams.com
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65564B
• Nature walks through the falls resort • 4 Nights, dinner & breakfast incl. • Star gazing on the Royal Livingstone • Includes flights, transfers & insurance lawns (Friday nights only) • Unlimited access to Vic Falls & park fees • Complementary Dreams travel bag
Valid until 31 May 2010. Sunday to Thursday nights, excluding peak periods. Valid for South African residents only. Includes return economy class airfare ex JNB, return airport transfers, 4 nights accommodation in a standard twin room, breakfast & dinner daily (dinner only included in Zambezi Sun package), Dreams travel bag, 5 days travel insurance including hazardous pursuits, nature walk around the resort, star gazing on Friday nights at The Royal Livingstone, Lounge high tea (Royal Livingstone package only) & FREE unlimited access to the falls. Excludes airport tax as stated above and items of a personal nature. Rates quoted per person sharing. Only valid for individual reservations. Subject to availability and definite terms and conditions. Subject to currency fluctuation. E&OE.
Tour operators
Trou aux Biches will offer facilities unique to Mauritius
Tips from a tour operator...
Inge Dobihal has the following advice for travel agents: ● Be precise with dates as much as possible. Be aware that prices differ in various seasons. A request for a quote for any time between May and July is impossible to give. ● Don’t ask for an itinerary and quote for specific dates without having confirmed that you can get the flight on these dates. On some occasions we had to quote three times. First for certain specific dates. We had just submitted the quote when half an hour later the
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agent informed us they could not get the flights and we had to quote for new dates or for a shortened or extended itinerary because of flight availability. We did this and the following morning another email arrived saying that because of flight problems or too high airfares the client was going two months later. ● Give us a bit of time to process matters. Don’t send us proof of payment at lunch time and tell us at the same time that the client has an
appointment with an embassy the following morning for a visa application and therefore needs the vouchers today. Of course we try our best to comply but there are certain days when urgent requests are overwhelming, whether it is for immediate issue of vouchers or immediate issue of invoice with requests such as “My client wants to pay today. Please send the invoice”, or “I am going on holiday tomorrow and I have this enquiry. Please send a quote today.”
Fun Holidays is offering ‘pay for two nights, stay for three’ specials at three of its selfcatering properties: The Palace, Bushman’s Nek and Club Mykonos. Prices at The Palace and Bushman’s Nek start from R400 per person, including breakfast, and from R190 per person at Club Mykonos, excluding breakfast.
Beachcomber’s Trou aux Biches to reopen in November Positioned as a new-age, fivestar, village-style resort, Trou aux Biches will offer a range of facilities unique to Mauritius when it reopens in November this year. Beachfront suites will offer private pools. All suites are interleading, making them a great option for families. Senior beachfront suites are located on the upper floor, providing views across the beach and sea. Each has its own staircase with direct access to the beach and the unit’s private pool on a lower
deck. Junior suites, arranged in crescents, will offer a central swimming pool, while two-bedroom villas are spread out in the resort’s grounds. Each villa has a spacious lounge and a private pool. The three-bedroom pool villas feature two master bedrooms with en-suite bathrooms and one bedroom specially furnished for children. The hotel will also offer a choice of six restaurants that will focus on specialities sourced from around the globe.
Self-catering apartments offer choice THEY may not be the first option travellers consider but self-catering apartments have a lot to offer families who are looking to get away. “A self-catering apartment is a home away from home. It is affordable, there is a variety of apartments to choose from around the country and the facilities offered are great for kids,” explains Fun Holidays marketing and sales manager, Michelle Winstanley. Fun Holidays, a tour operator that specialises in self-catering accommodation holidays, offers over 150 resorts from the Club
Leisure property portfolio. “If you are looking for a bush getaway or a beach holiday, we are able to accommodate clients around the country,” says Michelle. One of the advantages that Michelle highlights is the space self-catering apartments offer. “If you have a family wanting to get away, there are four-bedroom apartments available. “Unlike hotel accommodation, you are able to have friends or family over. Hotels also tend to be more central to cities, while resorts are not limited to hotel offerings when it comes to facilities.”
AT YOUR SERVICE � � � � � � � �
Eight luxurious hotels in Mauritius upgraded regularly to high standards One private island hotel in the Seychelles Top class accommodation and cuisine Spas and wellness centres to cater for your well-being
Destination Experts for Austria Central Europe Croatia
Excellent facilities for family holidays A dedicated reservations team for expert advice and efficient bookings National sales team to assist with information and training New website with up-to-date information www.beachcomber.co.za
MAURITIUS • SEYCHELLES For reservations call Beachcomber 0800-500-800 www.beachcomber.co.za TNW3907SD
12 n Wednesday April 7 2010
Tel: 011 476 3967 austria.co@mweb.co.za www.austriaconnection.co.za
TNW5091
QUICK READ FOR DECISION-MAKERS
Agents only Holiday Factory offers a taste of Mauritius
THE Holiday Factory is offering agents a seven-night special to Mauritius from R2 760 per person. The special includes return transfers from the airport, accommodation at the Ambre Resort and Spa, La Plantation Resort and Spa or the Indian Resort and Spa, all meals and drinks during operating hours of outlets and land and water sports as offered by the hotel. The special is valid until December 1, excluding school holidays, and is subject to availability.
A junior suite at One&Only Le Saint Géran in Mauritius
Travcorp brands offer coach experience
Agents can experience a coach tour on any of Travcorp’s listed companies – Trafalgar, Insight Vacations, Contiki, Thompsons Touring or AAT Kings – and get two, three or four nights’ touring on a scheduled tour for rates between R200 and R750 per day, depending on the product. Rates apply to partners too. This means agents can sample a coach tour in Australia, New Zealand, South Africa, USA, Canada, South America, Britain, Europe and the eastern Mediterranean if there is availability at the time of booking. Travellers’ Choice is offering price-busting specials for Phuket between April 16 and May ! k it 25. Packages include return economy airfares, o o B transfers, and seven nights’ accommodation for twin-room accommodation (excluding taxes of approx. R2 400). ● Deevana Resort and Spa: R8 402 ● Andaman Cannacia: R8 338 ● Duangjitt Resort: R9 014 ● Seaview Patong: R9 036 ● Patong Beach Hotel: R9 324 ● Graceland Resort and Spa: R10 116
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World Leisure Holidays is offering great Soccer World Cup deals for its Mauritian properties, valid from June 12 to July 11. For seven nights, guests pay from R8 665 at Coin de Mire, R13 360 at La Pirogue, R15 460 at Sugar Beach, R18 100 at Le Touessrok and R14 558 at One&Only Le Saint Géran. Over and above the standard breakfast and dinner inclusions, lunch, locally bottled alcoholic beverages, rum punch, a selection of wines, local beer, soft drinks, canned juices and local water as well as tea and coffee are also included. All return fares (ex-Johannesburg) on Air Mauritius are included (add R1 860 per adult for airport taxes)
THOMPSONS SPECIALIST COLLECTION
Bringing Unrivalled Expertise at the Best Prices for You
As your destination specialists, Thompsons Holidays has done all the hard work for you by selecting a range of top destinations for our Specialist Collections. Each Collection represents the most sought after holidays at the best prices on the market. Our quality packages aim to satisfy a variety of needs and budgets to give your clients the holiday of a lifetime. Thompsons currently have 19 Collections on offer including South Africa, Africa, Mauritius, Maldives, Seychelles, Middle East, Dubai, Mediterranean, Thailand, Far East, UK & Europe, USA & Disney and World Sport. Watch this space for exciting new additions to appear shortly! WHY CHOOSE THE COLLECTION FOR YOUR CLIENTS?
Expertly packaged holidays at unrivalled prices Finest choice of quality properties offering the best value Variety of holiday options to accommodate a range of needs and budgets Unbeatable bonus offers and special inclusions Informative and enticing Collection brochures Foreign Exchange Price Guarantee makes budgeting easy
TRAVEL AGENT WHAT'S IN IT FOR YOU?
Full commission No hidden credit card charges Knowledgeable & well-trained reservations team Instant confirmation out of allocation Foreign Exchange Price Guarantee to help you close that sale One call to Thompsons confirms it all!
Thompsons quality control professionals ensure your peace of mind. Peace of mind that your clients are in safe hands with Thompsons
Call Thompsons Holidays today or go to www.thompsons.co.za 2898 TNW Tour Operators Feature.indd 1
QUICK READ FOR busiest people
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Wednesday April 7 2010 n 13
Tour operators Dreams come true in Zambia SUN International Dreams is offering great value-adds with its ‘pay for three, stay for four nights’ specials at its Zambian hotels, the Royal Livingstone and the Zambezi Sun. Rates include accommodation in a standard twin room, return economy airfare, return airport transfers, star gazing with
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Russell Gammon, high tea, five days’ travel insurance, a Dreams travel bag and free unlimited access to the Vic Falls from R7 735 per person at the Royal Livingstone and R5 205 per person at the Zambezi Sun (excluding taxes of approx. R1 540). Valid until October 31.
Local is lekker Eastern Cape
● Sun International Dreams is offering a Fish River Sun Golf package valid until April 30. The package includes return flights ex-JNB, three days’ car hire, two nights’ accommodation in a standard room, breakfast and dinner daily and two 18-hole rounds of golf. The package costs from R3 205pps plus approximate airport taxes of R755. Rates are valid midweek and it excludes peak periods. ● Thompsons Holidays is offering a package at the Shamwari Private Game Reserve, valid until April 30. The fly-in packages are from R7 469 and include return flights to PLZ, two days’ Avis car hire, two nights’ accommodation, all meals and selected drinks and two game drives daily. Two children under four stay free at Riverdene Lodge when sharing with two adults. The self-drive option is available from R5 859.
Gauteng Austria Connection is offering a seven-day tour of Poland for €819 (R8 073) through Orbis Travel. The package includes sightseeing in Warszawa, Zakopane, and Krakow.
● Sure Tours is offering a three-night Blue Train package, valid in May, from R8 440pps ex-JNB. Included is one night on the Blue Train from Pretoria to Cape Town or vice versa, two nights' accommodation at the Radisson Blu Hotel including breakfast, two days’ car rental, one-way flight between CPT and JNB, airport and departure taxes.
Mpumalanga
● Thompsons Holidays is offering a special at the Exclusive Tented Camp in the Greater Kruger National Park, valid until April 30. The fly-in packages are from R5 319, including taxes and include return flights to Kruger Mpumalanga International, two days’ Avis car hire, two nights’ accommodation at the Exclusive Tented Camp, breakfast and brunch per stay, dinner daily and game drives. The selfdrive package costs from R2 879. The offer is only valid over weekends and is based on a minimum of four passengers.
North West
● Sun International Dreams is offering a Sun City Golf package valid until April 30. Packages cost from R2 685pps and include two nights’ accommodation, breakfast daily, one 18-hole round at the Gary Player Golf Course and one 19-hole round at the Lost City Golf Course. Rates are valid midweek and it excludes peak periods.
Western Cape
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● World Leisure Holidays is offering a special at the One&Only Cape Town, valid until June 8 and from July 13-September 30. It costs from R4 250 and includes one night’s accommodation, breakfast daily, 24-hour butler service and early or late check-in. Families receive a 50% discount on a second Marina Room, and a minimum of two nights qualifies clients for a 50-minute massage and a 45-minute fitness session. The special excludes airfares. ● Top Places is offering a Spier Hotel World Cup package, valid June 8-July 12. Costing from R5 800 per room, it includes two nights’ accommodation on a B&B basis at the Spier Hotel, full buffet at Moyo at Spier, dinner at the hotel, one half-hour massage treatment, wine tasting, entrance to the cheetah outreach and eagle encounters at Spier and daily children’s activities. Children eat, stay and play free.
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14 n Wednesday April 7 2010
QUICK READ FOR DECISION-MAKERS
COMMUNITYNEWS
jObS
Births, deaths, marriages, promotions – we want to know! Please fax or e-mail TNW's Jeanette Phillips, at jeanettep@nowmedia.co.za or (011) 327 4094.
our website is updated daily! visit www.specialized.co.za
Community news n Murray Aitken has been appointed the new hotel gm for Fancourt. Excited to be back in South Africa after more than a decade abroad, Murray is looking forward to the unique challenge of managing a fivestar hotel on a world-renowned golf resort. n The Three Cities Group has announced the appointment of Desmond O’Connor as new gm of Shelley Point Hotel, Country Club and Spa. Desmond served his three-year management apprenticeship with the Karos Group followed by stints at the Indaba Hotel and Conference Centre and the Theatre on Track conference centre in Johannesburg after which
AVIATION DIVISION: Airline Reservations/Fares/Ticketing – N/Suburbs Amadeus essential. Minimum 2 years airline fares & e-ticketing experience, as well as refunds, sales reports & PTA. joyce@sgroup.co.za
he was banqueting manager at Spier for two years. He was then assistant executive manager at Hôtel Le Vendôme, Sea Point, for two years followed by a move to the Table Bay Hotel where he was F&B manager and deputy gm for five years before becoming the first gm at the Cape Royal Luxury Hotel and Residence.
PR & Customer Care Executive A supervisory role. Will be involved in writing & implementing the customer care programme. Previous experience within airline/travel industry & a proven PR background essential. R15000. joyce@sgroup.co.za
TRAVEL DIVISION General Manager – Gauteng A strategic and operational position working for top corporate travel company. An all encompassing position with the focus on leadership & growth. A solid management background with strong business acumen, financial awareness & indepth knowledge of retail travel operations essential. Highly negotiable package. Kati
n Barbara Smith has joined the 1 on 1 Event Centre in Durban as gm. For the past few years Barbara has worked in Three Cities management where she acquired skills in different departments.
e-Marketing Manager – Gauteng Support the strategic objective of driving revenue & dominating online acquisition channels. Must have specialist knowledge of digital marketing, search engine marketing & internet advertising. High profile co. Highly negotiable salary. Kati Top Senior Consultant – Parktown area Take responsibility for large corporate accounts. Must have minimum 10 years consulting exp handling complicated international bookings. Tina
100 days to kick-off Court Classique style!
n Kim van Wyk has rejoined Three Cities’ Royal Hotel in the sales department as project sales consultant. Kim previously worked for the Three Cities Group for eight years before relocating with her family to Zambia.
Intermediate & Junior Consultants – Jhb S/Suburbs Contract positions from Mid May to Mid July. Will handle leisure travel linked to the World Cup. Amadeus essential. Tina
The Court Classique sales and marketing team recently joined the TBCSA event at Leriba Lodge and learned how to Diski Dance, but not before Lerato Maditse, sales executive (pictured left), Antonie du Preez, sales executive (middle) and Christianna Phillips, sales manager (right) wrapped the Court Classique trees in Beckett and Schoeman Streets in celebration of the day!
Int or Snr Cons – Cpt A contract position commencing asap! Assist busy agency handling a variety of consulting functions. Based Southern Suburbs. Tina Corporate Travel/BSP/QC Cons - N/ Suburbs Minimum 3 years corporate consulting experience, with proficiency in BSP and Quality Fare Control would secure. R12,000 neg. Joyce
Personnel with the personal touch FINANCIAL MANAGER/ISANDO
eQUiTY QU QUiTY CONNeCTiONS cc
Highly negotiable pacakage offered by Market Leader INTERMEDIATE WHOlESAlE for your B.Comm/equivalent and ability to lead CONSUlTANT/RANDBURG department of 45 people!
INTERMEDIATE CONSUlTANT/ BRAND MANAGER/ RANDPARKRIDGE NORTHERN SUBURBS Work closer home utilisinginvited your toAMADEUS Person to strong in Marketing join and knowledgeleading of Indian Ocean destinations!! Wholesaler! SENIOR CONSUlTANT/ SENIORCORPORATE CONSULTANT/BOKSBURG SANDTON Join well established, friendly company and work AMADEUS and closer QUICKTRAV to home! required to join progressive team!! Please Take Note of Our New Telephone No.: 011 704 4909
CONTACT WENDY/KIM TEl: 011Contact 465 8221 FAx: 086 538 5889 Wendy/Kim E-MAIl: wtp@icon.co.za (011) 704 4909 or e-mail: wtp@icon.co.za
Call NadiNe (011) 803 0056 or e-mail equitycon@mweb.co.za for these and many others! TNW1997
lee botti & associates Tel: Tracey (011) 803 6606 rivonia@nowjobs.co.za
THIS WEEK’S TOP JObS JOHANNESbURG
JOHANNESbURG
INbOUNd FIT’S CONSULTANT - NORTH
OUTbOUNd TOURS CONSULTANT – ILLOVO
Southern Africa your passion? Highly regarded, successful inbound operator would love you to join their vibrant team! Use your creative flair to design exciting tours for the int’l market. If you have at least 4 years inbound exp & want to be part of this team of movers & shakers, call us now! Competitive offer.
CAPE TOWN FIT’s MANAGER – NORTH
Tel: Wayne (021) 418 1084 capetown@nowjobs.co.za
Tel: Jill (031) 201 8330 durban@nowjobs.co.za See our website for a further selection of exciting vacancies! www.leebotti.co.za
2010
QUICK READ FOR bUSIESt pEOplE
Opportunity of a life time to join elite Inbound Operator in Managerial capacity overseeing 20 consultants! You’ll have solid Inbound knowledge on Southern Africa coupled with ability to lead, motivate and develop your team. Salary Negotiable
Great opportunity to move from retail travel into wholesale! Deal with agents and promote packages to international destinations. If you have at least 3 years travel agency experience, love converting the quote into a booking and are passionate about customer service, look no further!
CAPE TOWN PROdUCT dEVELOPER – Cbd
Reporting to the E Business/ Product Manager you’ll have excellent negotiating skills along with attention to detail in ensuring quality standards are improved. Solid Inbound product exp is ess for Southern Africa. Magnificent inbound online tour operator with stunning offices & alive with energy. To R17 000 pm.
dURbAN
dURbAN
SPRECHEN SIE dEUTSCH? - dURbAN
LEAd THE TEAM! – dURbAN
Your fluent German communication skills are in demand! Leading inbound operator seeks ‘people-person’ with strong service delivery skills to liaise with agents & organise itineraries for incoming groups. Will suit energetic person who enjoys a vibey environment! Package highly negotiable.
Inbound! Inbound! Numerous opportunities available for intermediate & senior inbound consultants! If you have inbound experience & would like to consider a career move, give us a call! Kati
Tailormake itineraries for USA/Europe/South America/Cruising and be well rewarded!! NATIONAL SALES MANAGER/ NORTHERN SUBURBS PRODUCT CO-ORINDATOR/SANDTON Hands on position with total responsibility for Junior Key opportunity for person with Southern Account Managers and Business Africa knowledge andManagers! computer literacy!! Development
BRANCH ACCOUNTANT – PRETORIA Oversee all aspects of finance within the branch. B. Com or Accounting Diploma needed plus minimum three years Supervisory experience. AFRICA SPECIALIST Sound knowledge of South/ Southern Africa needed. Design creative itineraries, negotiate rates and deal with International agents. OUTBOUND CONSULTANT Use your European destinations know-how to its fullest. Suit Intermediate/ Senior with solid experience. IN-BOUND SALES EXECUTIVE Represent dynamic In-bound Operator at International Trade Shows, grow the business locally and enhance your career! ACCOUNTS Leading Organisation has a number of openings for skilled accounts clerks – cashbook, debtors, creditors etc. Minimum three years accounting experience a must.
Perfectly situated retail agency with extremely close-knit, funky team! Seek exp’d consultant with at least one year’s branch management exp to lead the team & motivate them towards achievable targets. Highly incentivised environment means you write your own cheque! R9,000 basic + superb incentives / bens.
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To advertise on this page contact Natalie on 011 214 7330 or email nataliew@nowmedia.co.za
Junior Ticketer – Rosebank Minimum 6 months ticketing experience. Will be given additional inhouse training. Be part of highly successful travel co. R4500. Tina
Key Account Manager – Relocate to Durban! Our client would ideally like a candidate who is relocating to KZN. Will source & secure new business, handle relationship & database management, presentations & workshops. Proven sales track record within hospitality, travel or tourism essential. Savash Marketing Assistant – Jhb N/suburbs Well known leisure travel co. Must have travel industry background & would consider consultants with online experience or technology savvy, who would like to move into marketing. R7000 to R10000. Kati Branch Accountant – Pretoria Oversee all the financial functions within highly successful travel agency, with numerous subordinates. Must have min 3 years supervisory exp. Salary highly negotiable. Kati Bookkeeper – Sandton Books to Trial Balance. Tourplan an advantage but not essential. Commence asap. Salary negotiable. Kati Debtors Administrator – Sandton R12000/R16000. Bookkeeping background required. Highly recommendable co! Kati Creditors Clerk – Sandton Exposure to dealing with foreign currencies essential. R8500/R11000. Kati Cashbook/Recons Clerk – Sandton Play an important role within busy accounts department. Kati
Office Hrs (011) 884-9113 Website: www.specialized.co.za e-mail: kati@sgroup.co.za
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n Kendy Phohleli has been appointed country manager South Africa for Qatar Airways.
SpecialiZed Travel perSonnel
Wednesday April 7 2010 n 15
TNW NEWS
SAA dumps Match inventory Natalia thomsoN
I Buy one, get one free! Passengers purchasing a business-class ticket on any Afriqiyah Airways flights will get a free business-class ticket for a second accompanying passenger. The ‘Buy One Get One Free’ promotion is limited to flights operated by Afriqiyah Airways, excluding Cairo and Paris flights and codeshare flights. The promotion is valid until May 31 and excludes taxes and surcharges. Flying in business-class style (from left) are SA gm, Charmaine Thomé and sales and marketing manager, Michell Fourie Photo: Tijana Huysamen
N a surprise announcement, SAA has terminated its deal with official FIFA IFA ticketing agency, Match. Under the deal, SAA had reserved seats for Match at the most desirable peak times before and directly after matches. “These will now be made available to the public at affordable and competitive rates,” said Ian Cruickshank, SAA’s project leader. SAA confirms it terminated the deal because the two parties failed to reach an agreement on the terms and provisions of the contract. “SAA and Match couldn’t come to an agreement on the number of seats to be
provided and the terms and conditions relating to this. We cannot hold our ticket stock indefinitely while seat numbers keep changing,” said Ian. The airline, he says, hopes to continue assisting Match by operating wet-leased aircraft the agency is using to fly its guests around the country on routes not currently served by scheduled SA carriers. “This extends to international flights that Match wishes to operate from countries with no service to SA, such as Mexico. Talks are currently under way and are expected to be finalised later in April,” said Ian. Saver fares of as low as R900 one way, excluding taxes, between Cape Town and
Johannesburg for the opening match are already available on the airline’s website. But it might be too late for SAA to expect South African corporates to snatch up the thousands of seats it has released back into the system. Will Puk, Travel Counsellors md, says that corporates have basically shut down for the World Cup period. “I don’t think [SAA] will gain much from opening up to corporates again.” SAA, says Sure Viva Travels md, David Pegg, has finally woken up to the fact that it will have thousands of empty seats it will be “unable to sell at the last minute”. “Let’s hope they haven’t woken up too late.” n
Gauteng leads the pack of price gougers staff
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Major stress, poor pay! If you were to leave the travel industry, what would it be due to? n Bad pay 36% n Lack of benefits 9% n No room for growth 8% n Lack of training opportunities 0% n Boredom 2%
n Stress 25% n Fear of ADMs 3% n No fun left 13% n Fear of online booking 3% n Other 1%
“Old age – I turn 70 on April 19.” Graham de Witt, XL Astra Travel Pietermaritzburg. “Travel has become so stressful, with Internet bookings taking over. Due to the economic situation everybody is looking for the best deal. All the fun has gone out of travel and we have no benefits to look forward to.” Maria Protopapas, Pro-Travel.
To sponsor this poll contact Kate on 011 214 7334 or e-mail katen@nowmedia.co.za
GAUTENG has been named and shamed as the province with the highest amount of accommodation suppliers trying to take advantage of visitors during the 2010 FIFA World Cup according to a survey conducted by the National Department of Tourism (NDT). While NDT is satisfied that most accommodation providers seem to have “acted responsibly” with pricing over the June/ July period, the survey, conducted by Grant Thornton, has highlighted the fact that in Gauteng, 65% of the accommodation establishments surveyed are charging more than 50% above peak season rates for accommodation during the World Cup. Gauteng was followed by the North West, with 53%, Limpopo at 27%, the Free
State at 25%, Mpumalanga at 25%, KwaZulu Natal at 24%, the Eastern Cape at 18%, the Western Cape at 13% and the Northern Cape at 2%. But Grant Thornton says host cities naturally have a higher demand for accommodation, especially those in Gauteng, the province to host the opening and closing matches and ceremonies and home to the biggest stadium to be used in the tournament, Soccer City. “Based on normal supply and demand principles, it would be expected that establishments located closer to host cities would be charging a higher premium during the 2010 FIFA World Cup period,” said Grant Thornton in the survey results. Most respondents indicated that they were unlikely to charge their current quoted prices. More than half said they would not be willing to offer travel agents or tour
operators a discount on their rack rate. Says Liz Budge, manager XL Oceanair: “Those who came out with ridiculous prices at the beginning have seen they have to lower their prices. The general trend is higher prices for the beginning and end of the tournament, but I think most have been fair for the days in-between.” During the Athens Summer Olympics in 2004, the average room rate increased by 260% while the room rate during the German Soccer World Cup increased by 37%. The increases seem to have differed vastly from what many industry stakeholders have been saying and perhaps the most surprising results are those of Cape Town that show only a small percentage (20%) of respondents from that city will be charging more than a 50% premium on their highest 2010 rack rate. n
Travelport extends e-ticketing solution in Africa JeaNette phillips TRAVELPORT has announced that it is expanding its e-ticketing to Galileo-connected users in Africa. Approved travel agents for six African and European airlines can now issue and amend e-tickets in five countries
where a BSP is not available. Travelport’s Electronic Transitional Automated Ticketing (ETAT) system provides a more efficient way of reconciling ticketing outside the BSP. This streamlines the process for travel agents while providing airlines with a more cost-effective, additional
avenue to sell tickets that can be easily issued and amended. ETAT has been rolled out for Brussels Airlines in Rwanda, Angola, The Gambia and Burundi. Both RwandAir and Kenya Airways have also adopted it in Rwanda and Burundi. n
EURO RSCG 4460/E
lauraw@etravel.co.za / charmainem@etravelcpt.co.za
reporters
Quiet, spacious and comfortable, the
with
Daily flights from Johannesburg to Paris.
www.airfrance.co.za
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16 n Wednesday April 7 2010
QUICK READ FOR DECISION-MAKERS