The Meetings & Event Planner 2019

t h e M EET I N G S & E V E N T

EDITION 4 2019 | www.theplanner.guru

Planning perfection

Take your event to the next level BEST PRACTISE | SHOWCASES | DESTINATIONS | SERVICES

R150.00 (incl. VAT)

World-class Conference Facilities The conference facilities in South Africa are on par with any other country in the world, with many top-class venues including the Sandton Convention Centre, the host of Meetings Africa 2019, located in the richest square mile in Africa.

Embrace the Wild South Africa has over 20 National Game Parks, including the country’s largest game reserve, The Kruger National Park, which is

19 485 km² making it larger than Fiji.

Wherever You’re Coming From international airlines fly directly to South Africa, and King Shaka International Airport in Durban has recently secured a direct route to Heathrow, London.

Money Talks US $1 is equal to 14.24* South African Rand. 1 Euro is equal to 15.97* South African Rand.

$=R14.24* | €=R15.97* *Current average, subject to change

MEET HERE. GROW ANYWHERE. 25 FEBRUARY 2019: BONDAY

Meetings Africa is Africa’s largest premier business

EXHIBITION

677 world-class exhibitors and esteemed buyers from

SANDTON CONVENTION CENTRE JOHANNESBURG, SOUTH AFRICA

South Africa has over 650 star-graded hotels across all its nine provinces, including over a 100 5-star hotels.

Moving Around Travel time between OR Tambo International Airport Station and Sandton City is only 15 minutes on the Gautrain, Gauteng’s rapid rail system.

SOUTH AFRICA 26-27 FEBRUARY 2019:

Your Stay is Ensured to be a Quality One

events trade show and hosts over 2 000 delegates, around the world.

REGISTER NOW FOR MEETINGS AFRICA 2019

It’s also easy to explore the different parts of our country with relatively short flight times between major cities. Average flight time between Johannesburg and Cape Town is only two hours.

AVERAGE DOMESTIC

FLIGHT 2 HOURS

The Entertainment Capital of Africa

Get Your Adrenaline Pumping

South Africa hosts a number of worldclass events every year. Did you know that South Africa is the second country ever to host the FIFA Soccer World Cup, The Rugby World Cup and The Cricket World Cup?

Not only is South Africa incredibly beautiful, it also has numerous activities for the action-adventurer, including the world’s highest bungee jump bridge at Bloukrans in the Eastern Cape.

Relax on Sunny South Africa’s Beautiful Beaches South Africa is home to no less than 41 internationally-recognised Blue Flag beaches along our 3 200km coastline.

41 Blue Flag

Beaches

Experience Culture in a Way You Never Have Before South Africa is a melting pot of different cultures and has

11 official

languages.

Take a Trip Along the Wine Route Come and enjoy some of the world’s best wines.

South Africa has the longest wine route in the world and produces approximately 4.2% of the world’s wine.

inside

13 BEST PRACTICE 14 The marvellous world of MICE

Our outlook for MICE for 2019.

16 Safety proof your event in 2019

As an event organiser, part of

your portfolio is to ensure the security of both your attendees and your staff. The bigger the event, the more important health and safety become; but even for the smallest event, safety should be a consideration.

18 Threasy peasy

The events industry has the ability to create

an unrivalled platform that can deliver maximum engagement

[14]

between commerce, industry and target audiences – but how do we ensure we get this spot on?

20 Trending on 2019

Our industry experts peer into their crystal

balls to offer predictions on where the money is in the business events and the meetings sector in 2019.

24 SHOWCASES 31 VENUES

[20]

08

Index by capacity

10

Index by region

32

Gauteng

48

Western Cape

57

KwaZulu-Natal

62

North West

66

Mpumalanga

68

Free State

70

Eastern Cape

72

Northern Cape

74

Limpopo

76

International

The Planner @theplannerguru @theplannerguru

87 SERVICES 11

Connected

Index by type

Also visit www.theplanner.guru for daily news

EASY WAYS TO

SUBSCRIBE

Call +27 (0)11 233 2600 Email subs@3smedia.co.za Go to 3smags.co.za

THE MEETINGS & EVENT PLANNER 2019 •

3

Ed’s Comment Publisher Elizabeth Shorten Managing Editor Shanna Jacobsen (shanna@3smedia.co.za) Digital Editor Mpinane Senkhane Head of Design Beren Bauermeister Designer Ramon Chinian Chief Sub-Editor Tristan Snijders Sub-Editor Morgan Carter Client Services & Production Manager

Your planning partner From service providers and venues to useful tips and tools on how to bring your next event to life, The Meetings & Event Planner has it all.

Antois-Leigh Botma

Distribution Manager Nomsa Masina Distribution Coordinator Asha Pursotham Financial Manager Andrew Lobban Advertising Vanessa De Waal +27 (0)11 233 2600 vanessa@3smedia.co.za

published by 46 Milky Way Avenue, Frankenwald, 2090 PO Box 92026, Norwood 2117, South Africa Tel: +27 (0)11 233 2600 Fax: +27 (0)11 234 7274/75 www.3smedia.co.za THE MEETINGS & EVENT PLANNER 2019 All rights reserved 2018 www.theplanner.guru subscription R150 per annum (incl. VAT) subs@3smedia.co.za ISSN 978-0-620-68603-7 NOTICE OF RIGHTS The Meetings & Event Planner is published annually by 3S Media.

This publication, its form and contents vest in 3S Media. All rights reserved. No part of this book, including cover and interior designs, may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopying, recording or by any information storage and retrieval system, without permission in writing from the publisher, nor be otherwise circulated in any form of binding or cover other than that in which it is published and without a similar condition being imposed on the subsequent purchaser. The authors' views may not necessarily reflect those of the publisher. While every precaution has been taken in the preparation and compilation of this publication, the publisher assumes no responsibility for errors, omissions, completeness or accuracy of its contents, or for damages resulting from the use of the information contained herein. While every effort has been taken to ensure that no copyright or copyright issues is/are infringed, 3S Media, its directors, publisher, officers and employees cannot be held responsible and consequently disclaim any liability for any loss, liability damage, direct or consequential of whatsoever nature and howsoever arising.

member of

in collaboration with

P

lanning an event is never an easy task and even the old hats in the business might, from time to time, have sleepless nights thinking of all the bits and pieces needed to bring their event together. This is what makes The Meetings & Event Planner such a wonderful tool and it is why we have brought out yet another beautiful edition of this publication.

We have seen The Meetings & Event Planner go from strength to strength and the title has come a long way from being just a useful directory of venues and service providers, to become a repository of information that you just won’t find elsewhere.

In this year’s edition, we speak to six key industry figures who give their views on where the eventing industry as a whole is headed. While technology and trends will remain at the forefront, what will continue to drive the industry is much more abstract than tangible tools or planners. According to our experts, the real differentiator of the industry will be the way in which we collaborate.

We also explore where we should be focusing our efforts across the MICE sector and why relying on the same old routine or format for your meeting, incentive, conference or exhibition will no longer cut it in 2019.

The team at The Meetings & Event Planner are constantly working to refine the way in which we continue to deliver each article, each profile and each showcase.

The events industry is all about presentation and we feel our title is reflective of the beautiful venues or service offerings presented by each of our advertisers and we hope that they make as much of an impact on you as they have on us.

Our easy-to-use indexing section will help you find either a venue or service provider according to alphabetical order, province or capacity. This tool is also offered online so you will also be able to find any venue or service offering on theplanner.guru.

We welcome you to another fabulous instalment of The Meetings & Event Planner and hope it serves you well during 2019.

Shanna

Take the online Q&A test and start gaining credits. www.theplanner.guru

THE MEETINGS & EVENT PLANNER 2019 •

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I ND E X I N G

z

advertisers

to

[50]

6 • THE MEETINGS & EVENT PLANNER 2019

company

SECTION

Page

Anantara Bazaruto Island Resort

Venue

81

Anantara Medjumbe Island Resort

Venue

80

ATKV

Venue

2

Avani Gaborone Resort & Casino

Venue

85

Avani Lesotho Hotel & Casino

Venue

83

Avani Maseru Hotel

Venue

86

Avani Pemba Beach Hotel & Spa

Venue

82

Avani Victoria Falls Resort

Venue

78

Avani Windhoek Hotel & Casino

Venue

84

Barmotion

Services

89

Cape Town International Convention Centre

Venue

52

Cape Town Marriott Hotel Crystal Towers

Venue

28

Champagne Sports Resort

Venue

60

Chat’r

Services

93

Durban ICC

Venue

3

Emerald Resort & Casino

Venue

23

Emnotweni Hotel and Casino Complex

Venue

EPH Productions

Services

Ezemvelo KZNWild

Venue

Fancourt

Venue

53

FNB Conference Centre

Venue

45

[36]

67 90 & 91 59

Gallagher Convention Centre

Venue

27 & OBC

Indaba Hotel, Spa & Conference Centre

Venue

38

InterContinental O.R. Tambo Airport

Venue

44

Johannesburg Expo Centre

Venue

34 & 35

Johannesburg Stock Exchange

Venue

26

Khoja Group

Services

92

Le Franschhoek Hotel and Spa

Venue

51

The Royal Livingstone Victoria Falls Zambia Hotel

by Anantara

Venue

79

Old Mutual

Services

30

Parrot Productions

Services

94

Prime Circle

Services

95

Protea Hotel Johannesburg Balalaika Sandton

Venue

47

Protea Hotel Polokwane Ranch Resort

Venue

75

[38]

I ND E X I N G

[46]

company

SECTION

Protea Hotel Rustenburg Hunters Rest

Venue

65

Radisson Blu Gautrain

Venue

46

Ram’s Flowers

Services

46

SANCB

Services

IFC & 1

Sandton Convention Centre

Venue

Seychelles

Destination

Sorrento Events

Services

96

Specialised Exhibitions Montgomery

Services

12

Summer Place

Venue

19

Sun City

Venue

63

Sun International Boardwalk

[57]

Page

36 IBC

` Venue

71

Sun International Carnival City

Venue

40

Sun International Carousel

Venue

64

Sun International Flamingo

Venue

73

Sun International Golden Valley

Venue

56

Sun International Grand West

Venue

56

Sun International Group

Venue

25

Sun International Maslow

Venue

33

Sun International Meropa

Venue

75

Sun International Royal Swazi Spa

Venue

77

Sun International Sibaya

Venue

61

Sun International Table Bay

Venue

49

Sun International Times Square

Venue

41

Sun International Wild Coast Sun

Venue

58

Sun International Windmill

Venue

69

The Barnyard Theatre, Rivonia

Venue

39

the forum

Venue

42 & 43

The Oyster King

Services

88

The Polo Room

Venue

37

The Spier Hotel

Venue

50

The Westin Cape Town

Venue

55

Tsogo Group

Venue

4

Two Oceans Aquarium

Venue

54

Ultimate Data Sciences

Services

29

[65]

THE MEETINGS & EVENT PLANNER 2019 •

7

I ND E X I N G

VENUE

VENUES by

CAPACITY [67]

MAX PAX

NO. OF EVENT SPACEs

ACCOMMODATION NO. ROOMS

AREA

PROVINCE

PAGE

Less than 100 Anantara Bazaruto Island Resort

60

1

44

Mozambique

International

81

InterContinental Hotel O.R. Tambo Airport

80

11

138

O.R Tambo International Airport

Gauteng

44

Le Franschhoek Hotel & Spa

120

5

79

Franschhoek

Western Cape

51

Sun International Golden Valley

120

5

97

Worcester

Cape Town

56

Up to 120

Up to 150 Avani Windhoek Hotel & Casino

140

9

173

Namibia

International

84

the forum embassy hill

150

7

4

Constantia

Western Cape

43

the forum white light

150

2

5

Lanseria

Gauteng

43

Avani Pemba Beach Hotel & Spa

160

3

185

Mozambique

International

82

FNB Conference Centre

200

25

120

Sandton

Gauteng

45

Radisson Blu Gautrain Hotel

220

13

220

Sandton

Gauteng

46

Sun International Windmill

250

4

80

Bloemfontein

Free State

69

Sun International Flamingo

240

3

90

Kimberley

Northern Cape

73

Up to 200

Up to 250

Up to 300 Avani Maseru Hotel & Casino

300

7

155

Lesotho

International

83

Johannesburg Stock Exchange

300

5

within proximity

Sandton

Gauteng

26

Sun International Table Bay

300

5

329

Cape Town

Western Cape

49

Sun International Carousel

300

6

94

Hammanskraal

North West

64

13

212

Zambia

International

78

Up to 400 Avani Victoria Falls Resort

400

Fancourt

400

7

400

George

Western Cape

53

Cape Town Marriott Hotel Crystal Towers

350

12

176

Cape Town

Western Cape

28

The Spier Hotel

370

12

153

Stellenbosch

Western Cape

50

Livingstone

International

79

Up to 500 The Royal Livingstone Victoria Falls Zambia Hotel by Anantara

[71]

8 • THE MEETINGS & EVENT PLANNER 2019

450

9

173

Avani Gaborone Resort & Casino

500

10

196

Botswana

International

85

Protea Hotel Rustenburg Hunters Rest

500

15

98

Rustenburg

North West

65

I ND E X I N G

VENUE Sun International Maslow

MAX PAX

NO. OF EVENT SPACEs

ACCOMMODATION NO. ROOMS

AREA

PROVINCE

420

22

281

Sandton

Gauteng

33

PAGE

Up to 600 Avani Maseru Hotel

600

7

105

Lesotho

International

83

The Westin Cape Town

600

19

482

Cape Town

Western Cape

55

Sun International Meropa

600

10

60

Polokwane

Limpopo

75

Sun International Royal Swazi Spa

600

8

351

Swailand

International

77

Up to 750

[75]

the forum the campus

700

16

within proximity

Sandton

Gauteng

42

The Polo Room

750

1

within proximity

Inanda

Gauteng

37

Emnotweni Hotel & Casino Complex

770

8

224

Mbombela

Mpumalanga

67

Indaba Hotel, Spa & Conference Centre

800

24

258

Fourways

Gauteng

38

Up to 1 000

Sun International Sibaya

800

1

154

Durban

KwaZulu-Natal

61

Sun International Wild Coast Sun

900

5

396

Port Edward

KwaZulu-Natal

58

1 000

3

within proximity

Sandton

Gauteng

39

The Barnyard Theatre, Rivonia the forum Turbine Hall

1 000

10

within proximity

Newtown

Gauteng

42

Two Oceans Aquarium

1 000

5

within proximity

Cape Town

Western Cape

54

Champagne Sports Resort

1 350

16

152 hotel rooms + 91 chalets

Central Drakensberg

KwaZulu-Natal

60

Gallagher Convention Centre

7 000

27

within proximity

Midrand

Gauteng

27

Protea Hotel Polokwane Ranch Resort

1 500

13

150

Polokwane

Limpopo

75

Sandton Convention Centre

5 000

19

within proximity

Sandton

Gauteng

36

Sun International Boardwalk

1 600

5

140

Port Elizabeth

Eastern Cape

71

Sun International Carnival City

5 000

11

105

Boksburg

Gauteng

40

Sun City

6 000

36

1 310

Pilanesberg

North West

63

Sun International Grand West

6 866

10

176

Cape Town

Western Cape

56

52

More than 1 000

More than 10 000

[77]

Cape Town International Convention Centre

18 000

38

within proximity

Cape Town

Western Cape

Johannesburg Expo Centre

20 000

18

within proximity

Nasrec

Gauteng

34 & 35

Sun International Times Square

10 500

18

238

Pretoria

Gauteng

41

[84]

THE MEETINGS & EVENT PLANNER 2019 •

9

I ND E X I N G

E AST E RN C A P E

GAUTENG

VENUES by

REGION

[48]

10 • THE MEETINGS & EVENT PLANNER 2019

PAGE

VENUE

AREA

Sun International Boardwalk

Port Elizabeth

VENUE

AREA

Indaba Hotel, Spa & Conference Centre

Fourways

38

InterContinental Hotel O.R. Tambo Airport

O.R. Tambo International Airport

44

FNB Conference Centre

Sandton

45

VENUE

AREA

Gallagher Convention Centre

Midrand

27

Sun International Flamingo

Kimberley

Johannesburg Expo Centre

Nasrec

Johannesburg Stock Exchange

Sandton

26

Protea Hotel Johannesburg Balalaika Sandton

Sandton

47

Radisson Blu Gautrain Hotel

Sandton

PAGE 71

NORT H E RN C A P E PAGE 73

34 & 35

K W A Z U L U - NATA L VENUE

AREA

PAGE

46

Champagne Sports Resort

Central Drakensberg

60

Pietermaritzburg

59

Sandton Convention Centre

Sandton

36

Ezemvelo KZNWild

Sun International Carnival City

Boksburg

40

Sun International Sibaya

Durban

61

Sun International Maslow

Sandton

33

Sun International Wild Coast Sun

Port Edward

58

Sun International Times Square

Pretoria

41

The Barnyard Theatre, Rivonia

Sandton

39

the forum the campus

Sandton

42

the forum turbine hall

Newtown

42

the forum white light

Lanseria

43

The Polo Room

Inanda

37

VENUE

AREA

PAGE

Cape Town International Convention Centre

Cape Town

52

Fancourt

George

53

Le Franschhoek Hotel & Spa

Franschhoek

51

Cape Town Marriott Hotel Crystal Towers

Cape Town

28

Sun International Golden Valley

Worcester

56

Sun International Grand West

Cape Town

56

Sun International Table Bay

Cape Town

49

The Spier Hotel

Stellenbosch

50

The Westin Cape Town

Cape Town

55

Two Oceans Aquarium

Cape Town

54

the forum embassy hill

Constantia

43

W E ST E RN C A P E

[79]

I ND E X I N G

M P U MA L AN G A VENUE

AREA

Emnotweni Hotel & Casino Complex

Mbombela

PAGE

[62]

67

SERVICE PROVIDERS

AND PRODUCTS

li m p o p o VENUE

AREA

Protea Hotel Polokwane Ranch Resort

Polokwane

75

Sun International Meropa

Polokwane

75

BY TYPE

PAGE

F R E E STAT E VENUE

AREA

Sun International Windmill

Bloemfontein

PAGE 69

NORT H W E ST VENUE

AREA

PAGE

Protea Hotel Rustenburg Hunters Rest

Rustenburg

65

Sun International Carousel

Hammanskraal

64

Sun City

Pilanesberg

63

PAGE

BIDDING SUPPORT South Africa National Convention Bureau

44+45

DECOR + FLOWERS

I NT E RNAT I ONA L VENUE

AREA

Sun International Royal Swazi Spa

Swaziland

77

Avani Victoria Falls Resort

Zambia

78

Avani Windhoek Hotel & Casino

Namibia

84

Ram's Flowers

PAGE

54

EVENT PRODUCTION & MANAGEMENT EPH Group

91

Specialised Exhibitions

95

Sorrento Events

96

The Royal Livingstone Victoria Falls Hotel

by Anantara

Zambia

79

Anantara Bazaruto Island Resort

Mozambique

81

Anantara Medjumbe Island Resort

Mozambique

80

Avani Lesotho Hotel & Casino

Lesotho

83

PRESENTATION PLATFORMS

Avani Pemba Beach Hotel

Mozambique

82

Parrot Products

Avani Gaborone Resort & Casino

Botswana

85

Avani Maseru

Lesotho

86

FOOD & BEVERAGES

[76]

Barmotion

94

Oyster King

86

87

STAND DESIGN Chat'r Xperience

93

TECHNOLOGY Ultimate Data Sciences

29

TROPHIES Khoja Group

92

THE MEETINGS & EVENT PLANNER 2019 •

11

BEST PRACTICE Elevate your event by incorporating the insights of our industry experts, and using some handy tips and tools

14 The marvellous world of MICE 16 Safety proof your event in 2019 18 Threasy peasy 22 Trending on 2019

The Meetings & Event Planner’s outlook for MICE in 2019.

The marvellous world of MICE

T

he MICE industry is growing at an astounding rate – according to Allied Market Research, globally, MICE is expected to become a US$1.245 trillion (R18.25 trillion) industry by 2023; within the LAMEA (Latin America-Middle EastAfrica) region, this number is expected to climb, while the industry growing fastest in Asia-Pacific.

We look at the 2019 trends for each pillar of MICE.

Meetings Board meetings, formal results announcements, AGMs and strategy sessions with lengthy presentations are generally associated with being dull, tedious affairs but there are ways and means to ensure that these are not a major drag for your attendees. While meetings can be understood as also encompassing conventions and conferences, the latter are on a much larger scale.

Meetings might run over a full day or even two, with an agenda being key in determining the requirements. Location is everything for your delegates. With a growing emphasis on family values, getaway destination meetings, while

14 • THE MEETINGS & EVENT PLANNER 2019

exciting, might mean lengthy travel and time away from responsibilities at home, which could be challenging for some. However, finding somewhere easy and central for people to get to, and which offers a comfortable but alternative space to the regular humdrum of the office, is also important.

Incentives Getaways and giveaways are all wonderful incentives to consider for your staff and clients but require a significant outlay. And, in order for an incentive to be considered successful, it needs to be impactful and well thought out.

Setting clear objectives for your incentive in terms of what you are hoping to achieve, identifying what your messaging needs to look like, and establishing how to incorporate that with how you are hoping to incentivise your audiences will ensure greater impact.

Whether distilling your own gin or having a spa day, identifying enriching incentives that are more tailored to individual tastes and preferences and provide a different level of engagement between our target audiences is becoming increasingly

KEEP PACE BY OFFERING: 1. A warm welcome to announce your MICE event and get delegates excited to be part of the proceedings – signage and attractively done-up registration areas are a good start.

2. Regular comfort breaks and a menu that gives attendees something to look forward to, selecting options to keep them satiated but not feeling heavy and drowsy.

3. Technology that supports more interesting alternatives, which delegates can engage and interact with.

4. Opportunies for guests to check emails and attend to

any pressing matters while your MICE function takes place – Wi-Fi is a big must for attendees here.

5. Varied elements such as a guest address or presentation with an interactive activity to underscore a strong message that is aligned with your own and provides food for thought.

B e s t P r a c t ice 2 0 1 9

popular. Incentives also have to be offered with a degree of caution, as people are generally wary and question the motive behind why they are suddenly being incentivised.

Conferences Ease of access and processes are among the most confounding aspects of attending a large-scale conference. For this reason, organisation and resources are more crucial than ever for ensuring your conference runs smoothly. Understanding the attendee’s journey as the end-user is vital for building a checklist for your event requirements; from parking to your registration desk and ablutions – absolutely everything needs to be in place to cope with an influx of attendees.

Once delegates have to start queuing for bathrooms and there is a bottleneck at the tea and coffee station, or not enough food, it will reflect negatively on planning, which will not endear you to your audiences and could detract from how you engage with them. A smaller but well-run conference will ensure better success than a really large, poorly planned one.

along with a growing emphasis on sustainability.

Incorporating innovative and appealing elements such as furniture, lighting and decor, or even novel gimmicks such as VR tours of your product or service, gives exhibitors more of an edge.

The ‘confex’ model is also still finding its feet, with most big industry-focused conferences in particular now incorporating an exhibition aspect and, conversely, trade or industry exhibitions also commonly featuring panel sessions and speaker presentations.

YOU WILL FALL BEHIND IF YOU HAVE: 1. Poor organisation, which will leave your attendees either feeling lost or wondering how to arrange themselves.

2. A dry, unending, unvaried and rigid agenda where

delegates are prisoner to a programme that may put them to sleep – ensure your board meeting does not amount to a bored meeting!

3. Bad, bland food, or simply not enough for everyone.

4. A dark, dingy, dilapidated space with uncomfortable

seating, poor airflow and layout, and drab decor that will make your delegates antsy and eager to leave as soon as possible.

5. No networking opportunities and low engagement,

as these are among the major draw cards for any MICEfocused activity.

Exhibitions Exhibitions are becoming more elaborate than ever, with the aim of delivering the best sales pitch possible using a series of sensory elements for a high-impact engagement.

With the catalogue of exhibitors typically found at each exhibition, stands are put together using various materials – digital and environmentally friendly means of providing graphics are becoming increasingly popular,

THE MEETINGS & EVENT PLANNER 2019 •

15

B e s t P r a c t ice 2 0 1 9

Safety-proof your event in 2019 It is important to take steps to prevent harm coming to anyone involved in your event and forward planning is required in case of any emergency situations that could arise. Conducting a risk assessment might seem like a daunting process, but it doesn’t have to be – it’s ultimately about being conscientious and responsible.

The Meetings & Event Planner has put together a checklist that will help you safety-proof your next event in 2019.

As an event organiser, part of your portfolio is to ensure the security of both your attendees and your staff. The bigger the event, the more important health and safety become; but even for the smallest event, safety should be a consideration.

How suitable is the venue?

Start with putting together a profile of your event, including all the activities that will take place and the estimated audience size and demographics. Children, the elderly or those impaired in some way will, of course, have different needs. Identify a venue with these in mind, then do a site visit to assess its suitability. Factors you should consider include: 1 Access Is there sufficient access to the event site/venue for pedestrians and vehicles? Are people with disabilities, wheelchairs or pushchairs able to access the venue? Are there enough emergency exits?

2 Capacity Can your attendees be safely accommodated inside the venue? Will they be standing or seated? Is there room to circulate? Are there pinch points where overcrowding could occur?

3 Hazards Does the site have any existing hazards, such as overhead electric power lines or buried services that your structures could interfere with? Is it prone to flooding or high winds? Consider ground conditions and topography when positioning any temporary structures.

4 Facilities and on-site amenities How far are the nearest hospital and fire station? Does the address show up on most GPS systems? What are the public transport links like? Consider the infrastructure you need for the event, like how many toilets or parking bays are on-site.

Once you have established the suitability of your venue, draft a site plan indicating where the structures, facilities, fencing lines, entrances and exits will be. Make the plan available to all contractors, suppliers and staff working on the event.

16 • THE MEETINGS & EVENT PLANNER 2019

B e s t P r a c t ice 2 0 1 9

Place extra focus on your most severe risks, which must be prioritised and timetabled to reduce risk to an acceptable level.

If in doubt, rope in an expert

Risk assessment

1 Trip or equipment hazards Are there any cables or guy ropes people could trip over? Are there glass panels people could bump into? Could people come into contact with generators or other electrical equipment? Is there a chance that equipment could get wet should it rain?

2 Crowd hazards Could crushing/overcrowding occur? How would aggressive/drunken behaviour be handled? Could people be at risk around roads or car parks?

3 First aid hazards Could people become injured through the activities of your event? What injuries could occur? What would happen if an attendee suffered a heart attack?

4 Weather hazards Could the ground become slippery when wet? Could wind pose a risk to the stability of your structures? Could equipment get wet or become overheated?

5 Fire hazards How will you control smoking in the venue or on-site? Could campers use barbeques or stoves?

Could an electrical fire occur? Are there fire extinguishers?

6 Catering hazards Could ovens or hot water urns cause a risk? How will food allergies be handled? Are the containers for hot food and drink suitable?

Write down all possible risks and who is at risk – be it attendees, crew, members of the public or the venue itself.

Then write down how you will mitigate and manage each risk. This does not have to mean reams of paperwork; just note the basic measures, such as having a first-aider on-site and an accident report book. Place extra focus on your most severe risks, which must be prioritised and timetabled to reduce risk to an acceptable level.

Legally, you aren’t expected to able to anticipate unforeseeable risks, but it’s worth collaborating with your team for the risk assessment, as they may notice things that are not obvious to you.

In case of emergency It’s important to plan for any situations that will require urgent action. This could be anything from a fire to a stage collapsing or a terrorist incident. Even bad weather could create an emergency situation.

Develop emergency procedures to be followed by anyone working on the event and discuss your plans with the venue management. For larger events and/or those not in a fixed venue, include police and the various emergency services in your consultation. Aspects to consider when developing procedures include: • raising the alarm • on-site emergency response • traffic management • first aid.

Implementing health and safety As the event organiser, you are responsible for managing your staff, suppliers and attendees to ensure they are not exposed to risk at the different phases of the event, from set-up to breakdown.

Be sure to monitor risks throughout your event by creating a checklist and having people responsible for checking these at regular intervals. Health and safety at smaller events in designated venues can often be addressed very quickly by working with the venue management, but don’t forget, if in doubt, always rope in an expert!

THE MEETINGS & EVENT PLANNER 2019 •

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B e s t P r a c t ice 2 0 1 9

Threasy peasy The events industry has the ability to create an unrivalled platform that can deliver maximum engagement between commerce, industry and target audiences – but how do we ensure we get this spot on?

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he world of eventing is big business; globally, MICE will reach US$1.245 trillion (R18.25 trillion) in the next five years. This, however, is no guarantee that potential investors will walk away from our own events feeling warm and fuzzy and ready to throw their money at us.

Increasingly, the delegate’s experience is what is helping to define the objectives of an event.

The same principles still apply, where the event organiser’s marketing and messaging goals need to be met; but if any decent amount of ROI is to be recognised, more consideration needs to be given towards how each delegate experiences and engages with our event as the end-user.

18 • THE MEETINGS & EVENT PLANNER 2019

Let’s break it down into 3 Es to simplify the psychology of this:

is a mess and your catering is poorly planned, which can leave attendees disappointed and put off. Taking care of the individual’s primary needs is absolutely essential.

Reassuring your delegates with proper communication on where they park, how they register and what food will be on offer throughout the day will already put their minds at ease and ensure they are relaxed when they arrive.

End-user

Experience

There is nothing quite as frustrating as going to an event that has not been properly organised. The programme proceedings on the day, unless a major oversight has been made with the schedule, will almost certainly run smoothly because there is far more involvement by other parties; speakers, MCs and panellists will all flag a glitch in the agenda if there is one and help keep the pace of the programme.

However, this is the least of your concerns if you don’t have enough parking, your registration desk

Set the tone. Create ambience. Endear your audiences to you. Establish what tools you can use to make sure the experience had by your attendees is a positive one. Identify sensory touch points that will serve to enhance your engagement and better substantiate your key messaging.

Within this, look at easy-to-implement ideas such as lighting and music because these can go a long way in helping you set a mood. Ultimately, the aim is to ensure that the day or two spent out of the

office is made worthwhile by providing an experience that would not be possible anywhere else.

Entertainment is a good means to achieve this. If budgets are tight, however, invite a keynote speaker from the industry to address your audience. Having someone of relevance who is well respected and a big-hitter in their own right will be a talking point at your event and make it more personal.

Engagement When it comes to engagement, the KISS (keep it simple, stupid) method will inform this – ensure that whatever your message is that you can sum it up in one short phrase. Ask how the name and theme of your event lend themselves to your objectives relative to your messaging and whether the level of engagement between you and your audiences will accurately relay this.

Look at the marketing collateral being used and how you can ensure this messaging is displayed across all your platforms – from media releases to your signage at registration. Make sure this is reinforced during your event. A post-event survey can help you determine how effective this was, so don’t neglect your follow-ups.

For those who know that memorable events and principal occasions merit an exceptional setting, there is a place where the most discerning demands are met, gracefully and effortlessly.

Banqueting facilities at Summer Place offer versatility and flexibility in perfect accord with fine dining and

immaculate service. State of the Art kitchens tantalise the most discerning of palates with a variety of menu options suited to individual preference and budget.

Served in gracious surroundings with impeccable style, matched with superior crockery, silver table appointments, and linen of the finest quality, every occasion Summer Place is an event in itself.

B e s t P r a c t ice 2 0 1 9

Trending on

Our industry experts peer into their crystal balls to offer predictions on where the money is in the business events and the meetings sector in 2019.

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he business events space has seen many ups and downs over the past four to five years and I don’t foresee 2019 being different. With elections getting ever closer, we should see the natural inclination of our government departments to hold onto spend a bit more tightly but, on the flip side, we see individual political parties hosting more meetings. As they canvas for votes, this is usually done in majority through various forms of business events, which will provide more direct business to our industry.

With the volatile economic environment over the last few years, our industry has had to evolve and become a lot more collaborative in nature. This is definitely a move we have seen gaining more and more momentum over the last year or two. To look into the proverbial crystal ball is, at most, an educated guess during the fast-changing times we find ourselves in. With so many external factors, we need to look at the elements within our direct control to predict what we can drive and achieve as an industry together. I believe we will see the need for further and closer collaboration not only between industry players but also between private and public sector as well as between international stakeholders. We will see a much stronger drive for professionalisation of the industry as this is a crucial step toward delivering world-class events at world-class standards of service, concept, strategy and ethics.

As the industry association, we feel that, in order to really gain momentum, we need to empower and educate our youth for the succession and stability of the industry; this includes the appropriate drivers for inclusive growth and transformation. I predict we will see a more serious focus on revision of access policies for South Africa

20 • THE MEETINGS & EVENT PLANNER 2019

as we must align these policies to our strategic growth initiatives as it pertains not only to business events but business travellers and the larger tourism sector of South Africa but even further into Africa.

A greater focus on MICE Based on the leadership discussions throughout 2018, I have a view that we will also see a much larger focus by African countries on the MICE or business events industry, as all are becoming more and more aware of the fact that these drive leisure business as a secondary product and not the other way around. Based on this, we should see more investment in areas that drive MICE visitors with this then spilling over into leisure business. This will not be the case for all African countries but surely the majority of the larger players within the tourism space across Africa. Another prediction is the consistent enhancement of technology and what this offers in terms of accessibility of events.

Hybrid events will become more widely introduced and utilised to expose more delegates to the value locked up in these events and thereby attract more delegates to future events and make our events more accessible to delegates across the world. The trend to run more cost-effective events will definitely continue as the drive for greater return on investment remains a corporate focus.

Through the professionalisation of the industry, we are hoping to see more professional organiser behaviour by focusing on event strategy and not simply “paper pushers” who just do what the client says. It is better to advise clients on how best to achieve their event objectives and, in so doing, create much greater and measurable return on

Rudi van der Vyver, CEO, South African Association for the Conference Industry (SAACI)

investment, which should lead to greater return business not only for those professionals but also the industry at large. At the end of the day, the success and growth of the industry remains in our hands. Yes, there will always be elements outside of our individual control but if we focus on three strategic areas, namely: learning, growth and collaboration, we can collectively drive our industry forward. SAACI remains optimistic as our industry matures and has, thus far, made great strides in closing the collaboration gap between private and public sector during 2018.

We predict this will only strengthen during 2019 to the benefit of our industry and members.

B e s t P r a c t ice 2 0 1 9

Brian Kitchin, Executive Manager: Sales, Marketing and Distribution, Comair

Pieter Swart, CMP, CMM, Business Events Strategist & Managing Director, Conference Consultancy South Africa (Pty) Ltd As an industry, we are known to have multiple superpowers – looking through the keyhole of time may just be one of those as well. We have learned in recent years to be resilient in tough economic times, to reshape how we do business and offer even better value to our clients. We are on a quest to figure out how to work smarter, not harder, how to do more with less and how to increase profit margins as opposed to turnover. This, we will continue doing in 2019. Many speculate on technological advancements, and that is true.

At Conference Consultancy South Africa, we have seen a tremendous interest in hybrid digital events, not as a replacement for face-to-face meetings, but as a strategic intervention to grow them. Clients understand and see value in this strategy and this will most definitely be a growth point for 2019. We have developed the knowledge and skills and now have the experience to back it up. More business opportunities are also opening up on the continent and the ‘regionalisation’ of business events is becoming a reality that will continue to expand in 2019. Professionalisation of our industry will see several more initiates changing the face of how business is conducted in 2019, giving prominence to ethics, sustainable practices and competence development. Those who have the foresight and are willing to adapt to the changing realities will thrive in 2019, and beyond.

As always, success in the airline industry won’t automatically be guaranteed in 2019. The industry will have unique hurdles to overcome and a couple of challenges to dodge, but through driving innovation and investments into the business, one will be able to overcome the existing challenges such as local and global economic pressures and rising fuel costs.

It is our belief that three specific factors will be putting more passengers on planes in 2019.

The first of these will be the continuation of the “bleisure” (mixing business with leisure) trend domestically and globally. This will primarily be driven by millennials and the younger generation passengers whose aim it is to squeeze every ounce out of business travel. Combining work trips with mini-holidays as an extension will grow and evolve, and passengers will use these business travel opportunities and extend them for longer periods of time to maximise their travel.

Flexibility within organisations and technological advancements enabling one to work from anywhere will reinforce “bleisure” as a force to be reckoned with.

Customers will continue to be price sensitive, which will bolster the South African traditional and low-cost airline space with airlines and many other industries competing to offer the most competitive pricing to lure customers. With the ongoing fuel pricing globally and the weak South African currency, it is difficult to keep fares low. With fuel constituting as much as 40% of an airline’s typical operating costs, Comair is investing in two state-of-the-art Boeing 737-MAX aircrafts, which are scheduled to arrive in February 2019, with five more in due course. These fleet upgrades will bring positive operating advancements, which will lower operational costs and put Comair in the position to offer sustainable, competitive pricing for passengers to get the most out of their flying experience.

Sluggish economic growth over the next year and a weak rand will result in travellers opting for local travel instead of going abroad. On the flip side, my prediction is that international arrivals in South Africa will increase as travellers seek cheaper destinations to visit due to worldwide economic turbulence. Holistically, both these factors will contribute to bolstering domestic tourism in South Africa and regionally to Zimbabwe and Namibia via our shores.

Combining work trips with mini-holidays as an extension will grow and evolve, and passengers will use and extend these business travel opportunities to maximise “bleisure” time THE MEETINGS & EVENT PLANNER 2019 •

21

B e s t P r a c t ice 2 0 1 9 Justin Hawes, Managing Director, Scan Display As we all know, South Africa is currently in a technical recession. While we wait with baited breath for the 2019 general election to bring political stability and, hopefully with it, economic growth, we can’t expect an economic upturn and solid decision-making until we know where we are going politically, and things have settled down. Marketers will continue to be very careful about how they spend their budgets and will want tangible returns from any investment. They won’t exhibit at a show simply because they’ve always been there in the past or their competitors will be there; they will expect exhibitions to generate leads and sales and they will measure their returns carefully.

There have been a few companies in the exhibition industry closing their doors or downsizing in 2017 and 2018. As a result, exhibitors are going to be very careful about using reputable suppliers, and association membership will be important as it gives companies credibility. I believe that in spite of everything, the exhibition medium will continue to be a powerful marketing tool. In this challenging economic climate, the medium is more important than ever, with its ability to bring companies in direct contact with their market.

Still, nothing beats its face-to-face communication.

Justin Hawes, Managing director, Scan Display Crystal Kasselman, Co-owner, Centeq Events

Minister Kganyago, Manager: Business Events Marketing, ATKV The tourism industry continues to experience unprecedented changes that affect the way business is done today. This is as a direct and indirect result of the rapid technological advancements witnessed across the globe. Technology has, over the last 10 years, drastically influenced the tourism industry, particularly business tourism. The modern business traveller is becoming more particular about what they want and, subsequent to that, expects the venue to be flexible and have capacities that coincide with the modern times of business events and travel.

The events industry in 2019 can certainly expect more demands for technological abilities from venues by event organisers, professional conference organisers (PCOs) and other professionals alike.

We have long passed the stage where uncapped free Wi-Fi was negotiable and can predict that 2019 will pose a stage where abilities to livestream the event will be the order of the day. So venues that are geared towards adaptability and flexibility will be able to survive the stringent economic times that lie ahead in 2019. Venues will have to keep their fingers on the pulse insofar as industry trends are concerned.

For instance, the concept of “bleisure” will continue to take centre stage in 2019.

22 • THE MEETINGS & EVENT PLANNER 2019

Collaboration and communication – back to basics comes to mind for me for 2019. Technology is great but delegates want to collaborate and network in innovative new spaces that provide unique experiences. Our registration services are already cutting edge and our own intellectual property has put Centeq at the forefront of database and project management systems.

Data privacy compliance is a must – we have already seen General Data Protection Regulation come into effect so ensuring your business has back-ups and firewalls in place and that you have permissions from delegates to share data is key. Hotel rates will need to be more negotiable and venue day conference packages need to be relooked at as clients are questioning value and return on investments.

Emails have replaced phone calls, VOIP has replaced office-bound calls and, eventually, chatbots will replace all traditional communications with delegates expecting instant responses 24/7.

Artificial intelligence and virtual reality are already buzzwords and our industry is going to want to explore how to use these better in creating the ultimate conference experience for the delegate, client, exhibitor and sponsor. Voice technology will become a norm for interacting and accessing information so start exploring how you can integrate this into your events.

2019 is going to be an innovative year of exploring where your business needs to be in order to survive – communicate and collaborate with partners of choice.

SHOWCASES Nothing beats a word-of-mouth recommendation.

Our star venues and service providers showcase their expertise in a series of industry testimonials

25 More than just fun in the Sun 26 JSE Limited 27 Gallagher Convention Centre 28 Stylish elegance meets contemporary flair 29 An ultimate offering

VENUE SHOWCase

More than just fun in the Sun For years, the Sun International brand has developed an incredible legacy in the gaming, hospitality and entertainment sector. With stunning superior hotels and resorts, Sun International is a recognised premium brand across the world, and here’s why:

T

oday, the Sun International Group is one of Africa’s largest tourism, leisure and gaming groups, and operates or has an interest in 19 resorts, luxury hotels and casinos. The Group boasts a profile of assets including world-class five-star hotels, modern and well-located casinos, and some of the world’s premier resorts. Its destinations offer experiential luxury, enduring quality and incredible adventure, and are supported by an authentic dedication to personal service.

So what is Sun International’s competitive advantage? Its differentiator stems from the fact that the Group has a compelling and global competence in both the development and operation of casinos, hotels and resorts; at the same time, it is extremely comfortable operating in emerging markets.

The Groups’ approach has been to differentiate its hotels, resorts and casinos in architecture, service, experience, location and the mix of

entertainment and activities – creating lasting memories for guests and customers.

The creative architecture of these properties and the blending of their designs with the local environment make each property unique.

CSI The Group places a strong emphasis on being a responsible corporate citizen through contributions and commitments to the economy, communities and the environment. It is committed to the development of all employees and makes sure that equal opportunities and economic empowerment form the backbone of the business’s human resources practices.

SUN CITY, PILANESBERG

THE TABLE BAY, CAPE TOWN

THE MASLOW, SANDTON

Did you know?

Sun International was the pioneer of gaming in Southern Africa, having brought casinos to this part of the world in the late 1970s. The opening of Sun City set the standard for large-scale international events in South Africa, which continues today. Sun City is also home to the Nedbank Golf Challenge, which has attracted the world’s best golfers for over two decades. From the hosting of Miss South Africa to world heavyweight boxing title fights, the Sun Arena remains the preferred venue for international events and entertainment.

TIME SQUARE, PRETORIA

BOARDWALK, PORT ELIZABETH

FUN FACTS • S un international has interests in 19 resorts, hotels and casinos • S un International Limited was incorporated in South Africa on 11 July 1967 • I n the last financial year, Sun International saw a 4% growth in income to R7.9 billion • SA continues to contribute the majority of the group's income at 69%, with Latin

American operations contributing 30% and Nigeria 1% • Gaming is the primary contributor to the group's income at 73% • S un International enjoys a 42.5% share of the South African casino market •E very day, over 50 000 customers from over 50 countries visit a Sun International property

THE MEETINGS & EVENT PLANNER 2019 •

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VENUE SHOWCase

JSE LIMITED Meeting spaces 3 (JHB), 2 (CPT) Max pax 300 ACCOMMODATION WITHIN PROXIMITY

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rading financial products for over 130 years, the JSE is Africa’s largest stock exchange. Located in the heart of the business districts in Johannesburg and Cape Town, the JSE offers distinguished venues for corporate events and meetings for companies and financial institutions.

THE OFFERING • JSE market open and market close – an opportunity extended to corporates to celebrate milestones or specific events, which denote your company as a market leader • State-of-the-art wallboard, electronic signage and ticker – welcomes guests and adds prestige to your event • Mobile registration – supports you with your registration requirements • High-level delegate capacities – taking superb care of your VIP delegation • On-site sound engineer and technicians – to

ensure your AV and technical infrastructure as well as equipment is professionally managed • Add a level of recognition to your event – As a member of key international and industry associations, including the World Federation of Exchanges and SAACI, the JSE imparts a sense of gravitas to any client event • Dedicated staff – the JSE designates a coordinator to your event so no stone is left unturned • 70 years’ combined eventing experience – quality control and assurance that your event could not be in better hands • Various package options – events tailored to your budget • Joy of Joburg or cosmopolitan Cape Town – the JSE has offerings in both major capitals • Media access – clients can access media powerhouses such as CNBC, Power FM and SABC through the Johannesburg branch • One-stop eventing shop – for anything required to run a successful event.

1 Exchange Square, Gwen Lane, Sandown +27 (0)11 520 7131 companyservices@jse.co.za www.jse.co.za

johannesburg.stock.exchange JSE_Group jse-limited

26 • THE MEETINGS & EVENT PLANNER 2019

Since opening its doors 25 years ago, Gallagher Convention Centre has established itself as the leading multipurpose conference and exhibition destination in South Africa. Strategically located in Midrand, Gallagher is also conveniently accessible from both Pretoria and Johannesburg.

Meeting spaces 27 Max pax 7 000 Public transport Conveniently located on the Gautrain route

G A L L AG H E R CO NVE NT IO N CE NT RE, MID RAND

Venue highlights about gallagher

27 venues

350+ events a year

97% client satisfaction with facilities and catering

Full flexibility and matchless service across its world-class facilities to suit every budget

2 - 7 000 guests

An in-house network for Professional Conference Organisers

30+ exhibitions per year

Ample, secure parking

Halaal certified by NIHT

32 hectare property, centrally located between Johannesburg and Pretoria

Gallagher Convention Centre is committed to service excellence.

Its professional and experienced team, along with its network of pre-qualified suppliers, are dedicated to meeting the requirements of each client.

Skills development programme

To best accommodate organisers, Gallagher Convention Centre offers a single-call-solution where organisers can secure pre-qualified suppliers without having to look any further. The qualified staff forming the Gallagher Convention Centre team work diligently to ensure that the requirements of the organisers are met and that their expectations are exceeded.

Hosts multiple event types, including conferences, galas, exhibitions, product launches, etc.

Visit our website for the 2019 Gallagher specials, or contact us and speak to a consultant to have a quote specially prepared to suit your budget.

19 Richards Drive, Halfway House, Midrand | +27 (0)11 266 3000 | gallagher@gallagher.co.za www.gallagher.co.za

GallagherConventionCentreMidrand

Gallagher Convention Centre

THE MEETINGS & EVENT PLANNER 2019 •

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Ve V EN nU ue E S sH hO oW wc Case

Stylish elegance meets contemporary flair The chic Cape Town Marriott Hotel Crystal Towers boasts some of the most sophisticated accommodation and event spaces in the convenient Century City location. This makes the hotel an excellent choice for event planners looking for a well-located, full turnkey event venue.

THE DETAILS THE VENUE Conduct business in Cape Town with ease in our array of contemporary conference room facilities. 12 event rooms and 14 000 square feet of flexible meeting space that can accommodate up to 350 guests.

Lead a productive meeting with cutting-edge audiovisual technology and high-speed Wi-Fi access. Allow our event planning team to execute your conference and experience seamless business services.

With 176 well-appointed rooms and four breathtaking suites each offering modern amenities, Cape Town Marriott Hotel Crystal Towers has an ideal accommodation offering.

With complimentary Wi-Fi and technology tools, such as Meetings Imagined and Red Coat Direct, we have you covered!

EVENTS Think corporate conferences, product launches, gala dinners and more – the possibilities are endless MEETING SPACES 12 MIN PAX 8 MAX PAX 350 TOTAL EVENT SPACE 11 194 sq ft ACCOMMODATION 180

Cnr Century Boulevard and Rialto Road, Century City, Cape Town, 7441 T: +27 (0)21 525 3888 E: crystal.capetown.sales@ marriotthotels.com www.marriottcrystaltowers.com

Supplie r s h o wc a s e

The Ultimate Offering With a unique position in the exhibitions, conferences and events industry, Ultimate Data Sciences offers bespoke solutions that make optimal use of available technology in order to produce the best outcome for all stakeholders.

As every event has different needs, the Ultimate team has developed multiple technology-based solutions over the past 12 years. Among them all, one stands out the most: the cashless payment sustainable gifting system.

The Client: The Event Greening Forum (EGF) and others.

The Brief: To use technology to operationalise a sustainable solution for delegate gifting incentives.

The Challenge: Sustainable gifting allows the delegates of an event the opportunity to ‘shop’ for their own gift at a market made up of local vendors. The challenge came in two parts: (1) How do you give the delegates their share of the gifting budget? and (2) How do you facilitate transactions between vendor and delegate?

The Solution: Part 1: Voucher Cards. This works as any typical voucher would in the retail space. The delegate was gifted a Voucher Card with a predetermined amount based on the gifting budget. As a value-add, the cards are branded with the event’s own branding; in addition, the cards are made of recycled plastic to add to the sustainability of the system.

Part 2: In understanding that the local vendors have limited access to expensive technology such as credit card machines, the Ultimate team began designing a system that only requires the use of technology most of us carry around all day – a smartphone. To eliminate the need for a credit card machine, QR codes are used instead. Each voucher is assigned a unique QR, which is printed on the back of the card, along with a unique pin for added safety. All that is required is a

brief five-minute training session and the vendor can begin accepting payments. Taking it one step further, the system was designed to allow delegates to shop at several different vendors with the same voucher card.

Showcase: To date, the cashless payment system has successfully been used at events across South Africa, large and small. Some of these include Meetings Africa, Africa’s Travel Indaba Exhibition, the annual SAACI Congress and, naturally, EGF conferences.

Cedarwood House, Ballywoods Office Park, 33 Ballyclare Drive, Bryanston, 2191 T: +27 (0)11 463 6300 E: support@ultimatedata.co.za www.ultimatedata.co.za

THE MEETINGS & EVENT PLANNER 2019 •

29

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VENUES Your complete guide to meetings and events at the best venues and destinations in South Africa‌ and beyond

gauteng 1

2

THE BEATING HEART OF THE ECONOMY

A HISTORY LESSON LIKE NO OTHER

Meaning “place of gold” in Sesotho, Gauteng is the economic hub of South Africa. It is the smallest but most densely populated province, with an estimated 14 million people who generate around a third of South Africa’s total GDP.

From the only street in the world that was home to two Nobel Peace Prize laureates to the birthplace of humankind, the province is home to several World Heritage Sites. Gauteng has monuments, museums and memorials to showcase some of its historical and cultural attractions.

32 • THE MEETINGS & EVENT PLANNER 2019

Meet and play in the place of gold

3

4

5

Gauteng is blessed with a natural bounty of flora and fauna, with Johannesburg being among the top 10 most treed cities in the world. Just take a short drive from the urban sprawl and you could find yourself sipping cocktails while watching the sunset in a bushscape, alongside the big five.

From intimate meeting rooms with an array of sideline specialities to the billowing exhibition halls of some of the best-known venues offering world-class conferencing standards, there is no shortage of places at which to have a gathering in Gauteng.

Home to two international airports, its own high-speed train network, and connected by one of the best road systems in the world, getting in and out of Gauteng is a breeze. And if the train won’t get you where you need to go, just call an Uber.

FLORA AND FAUNA

VENUE VARIETY

GETTING IN AND OUT

Meeting spaces 22 Max pax 420 Accommodation 281 rooms Situated in the heart of Sandton’s financial district, Sun International’s 281-room specialist business hotel has been prudently crafted to facilitate all of today’s business needs. The hotel is packed with state-of-the-art facilities and technology that will delight any business executive.

All senses are catered for through a variety of spaces – ranging from an alluring bar, tempting bistro, calming lounges and a soothing spa to a ballroom, conference centre, auditorium and 12 unparalleled meeting rooms.

The hotel has consciously been positioned as a game changer: being a destination for professionals and the foremost precinct for achieving business success.

LOCATION The Maslow is located in Sandton’s financial district, only a few minutes away from the Sandton Gautrain station, Sandton City mall and Nelson Mandela Square.

MEETING AND EVENT SPACES Sun International’s The Maslow won the award for the best small conference venue in the Business Traveller Awards 2016. The Maslow’s spaces and facilities offer an oasis for business and social events and, being the second largest such venue in business-centered Sandton, offers state-ofthe-art facilities and catering for functions of any size. The hotel also has private meeting rooms.

Venues AND capacities Room Name Ballroom (1+2) Ballroom (2+3) Business Centre (1+2) Venues AND capacities Carnegie Conference Room (1+2) Duke Edison Exemplar Ballroom (2) Full Ballroom (1+2+3) Hinde Morgan Optima Ballroom (1) Paragon Ballroom (3) Seligman Stanford Tata Vanderbilt Vertex Conference Room (1) Walton Zenith Conference Room (2)

Banquet 160 200 100 80 300 80 120 50 50

Schoolroom x2 120 156 72 60 216 60 96 36 36

Schoolroom x3 168 204 100 84 288 84 120 50 50

Cabaret 96 120 72 48 168 48 72 36 36

U-shape 66 78 62 20 33 111 20 33 45 20 31 31

Cocktail 200 250 120 100 350 100 150 60 60

Dance Floor 100 150 50 200 50 100 -

Cinema 240 300 200 120 420 120 180 100 100

Boardroom 8 8 12 8 12 8 12 12 -

ACCOMMODATION Kick-start your morning with a complimentary breakfast at Lacuna Bistro before you tend to the business of the day.

Whether you’re closing an important business deal, hosting a conference or catching up with colleagues, The Maslow’s award-winning accommodation brings business and pleasure together in calming and comfortable surrounds.

CATERING The Maslow offers catering to functions of any size.

Corner Grayston Drive & Rivonia Road, Sandton, 2031, Gauteng +27 (0)10 226 4600 maslow@suninternational.com www.suninternational.com/maslow

THE MEETINGS & EVENT PLANNER 2019 •

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gauteng

Sandton

gauteng Meeting spaces 18

Max pax 20 000

Accommodation 20 hotels within proximity

Johannesburg Expo Centre

34 • THE MEETINGS & EVENT PLANNER 2019

VENUES AND CAPACITIES Room Name

Nasrec

Area m2

Cinema

Cocktail

Banquet

Schoolroom

Hall 5

7362

5 600

5 600

2 400

3 600

Hall 6

1 2304

9 400

9 400

4 000

6 100

Hall 7

4 890

3 700

3 700

1 500

2 400

Hall 8

4 890

3 700

3 700

1 500

2 400

Hall 9

6 532

5 000

5 000

2 000

3 200

Hall 9B

1 620

-

-

-

-

Hall 10

2 420

1 800

1 800

1 000

1 200

Hall 10 A

850

800

800

500

500

Hall 10 B

615

420

420

300

350

Bateleur A & B

960

1 000

1 000

550

550

Bateleur A

560

400

400

300

350

Bateleur B

350

320

320

200

200

Black Eagle A, B & C

833

800

800

500

500

Black Eagle A

312

300

300

180

180

Black Eagle B

209

200

200

120

120

Black Eagle C

312

300

300

180

180

Main Arena

20 000

-

-

-

-

built exhibition, conference and event venues. With multipurpose facilities providing more than 50 000 m2 of indoor space and over 100 000 m2 of versatile outdoor space, the JEC is ideal for exhibitions and other largescale events.

LOCATION

Specialising in providing top quality food in vast quantities, Main Event Catering is the name behind the JEC’s five-star catering services.

The JEC is located in the south of Johannesburg. Lanseria International Airport, O.R. Tambo International Airport and Rand Airport are all a mere 30-minute drive away.

MEETING AND EVENT SPACES The JEC is one of South Africa’s largest, purpose-

gauteng

The Johannesburg Expo Centre (JEC) has become an icon of the city of Johannesburg. To keep up with exhibiting and eventing trends, the JEC is constantly innovating to provide the best in bespoke offerings for its growing client base.

From the highly anticipated annual Rand Show to Electra Mining Africa, Jehovah’s Witnesses International, Classic Car Show, Bauma Conexpo Africa, Major League Gardens, Interbuild and Ultra, to name just a few favourites, the JEC hosted a variety of major of events during 2018, with a lot more coming up in 2019!

ACCOMMODATION While the JEC doesn’t offer on-site accommodation, 20 nearby hotels provide somewhere for you delegates to stay should it be needed.

CATERING

TEAM BUILDING The JEC’s facilities and flexible outdoor space are ideal for team-building events.

jhbexpocentre1 jhbexpocentre1 johannesburgexpocentre Johannesburg Expo Centre

Cnr Rand Show and Nasrec Road, Nasrec, South Africa +27 (0)11 494 1920 info@expocentre.co.za www.expocentre.co.za

THE MEETINGS & EVENT PLANNER 2019 •

35

gauteng

Sandton Convention Centre Sandton

Meeting spaces 19 Max pax 4 500 Accommodation Over 5 000 rooms within proximity Sandton Convention Centre caters for a variety of events ranging from large conferences including the BRICS Summit and board meetings for 10, to music festivals like Joy of Jazz and large-scale sporting events such as the Arnold Classic.

LOCATION Sandton Convention Centre is located in the heart of Sandton with direct access via skywalks to two prestigious shopping malls: Nelson Mandela Square and Sandton City. It is within easy walking distance of the Gautrain Sandton station connecting the Sandton Convention Centre to the airport and other areas in Johannesburg and Pretoria.

Venues and capacities Room Name

Cocktail

Cinema

Schoolroom Boardroom U-shape Banquet served (3 pax) 10 pax - no equipment

Exhibition 1

4 000

3 900

-

Exhibition 2

3 500

3 500

-

The Ballroom The Ballroom 2 The Ballroom 3 The Ballroom 4 Boardroom 1 Boardroom 2 Boardroom 3 Boardroom 4 Boardroom 5 Boardroom 6 Boardroom 7 The Bill Gallagher Room Skywalk Gallery Committee Room 1 Committee Room 2 Committee Room 3 Committee Room 4 Committee Room 5

2 300 250 250 250 50 50 60 50 50 110 110

2 300 200 200 200 48 48 48 48 48 55 48

350

450

280

270 50 120 30 160 160

48 120 30 200 200

25 65 30 1000 100

Pavilion Foyer The Pavilion

580 3 750

4 500

2 500

EXHIBITIONS -

-

-

-

-

-

-

1 500 140 140 140 40 40 40 40 40 40 40

1 200 110 110 100 -

-

250

250

10 20 15 30 30

30 80 40 120 120

24 64 32 96 69

-

2 000

1 600

CONVENTIONS AND MEETINGS 1 500 150 50 40 150 50 40 30 50 40 30 15 10 30 15 10 30 15 10 30 15 10 30 15 10 30 15 10 30 15 10

36 • THE MEETINGS & EVENT PLANNER 2019

15 25 15 35 35 SPECIAL EVENTS -

Banquet buffet served 10 pax - no equipment

ACCOMMODATION Sandton Convention Centre is surrounded by a choice of over 5 000 hotel rooms across the luxury, full-service and select-service categories, many of which are within walking distance. Within the selection of Tsogo Sun hotels in the area, two are directly connected to Sandton Convention Centre via a skywalk, namely Sandton Sun and InterContinental Johannesburg Sandton Towers, while the adjacent Garden Court Sandton City can be reached in under two minutes on foot.

Additional Tsogo Sun properties in the surrounds include: Holiday Inn Sandton, Southern Sun Katherine Street and Garden Court Morningside Sandton.

MEETING AND EVENT SPACES

CATERING

Sandton Convention Centre boasts two exhibition venues: Exhibition 1 (5 430 m2) and Exhibition 2 (5 050 m2). It is equally equipped to cater for smaller events and meeting venues range from an intimate 10-seat function room to the Grand Pavilion, which can comfortably cater for 4 000 cocktail guests.

The team of chefs and kitchen staff at Sandton Convention Centre is led by executive chef James Khoza, who is also the president of the SA Chefs Association.

This talented team is capable of creating customised menus to suit any palate and dietary requirement.

Maude Street, Sandton +27 (0)11 779 0000 scc.reservations@tsogosun.com www.sandtonconventioncentre.com SandtonConventionCentre scc_joburg tsogosun TsogoSunGroup

gauteng

The Polo Room Inanda

Meeting spaces 1 Max pax 750 Accommodation 10 executive lodge rooms

Since opening its doors in 2014, The Polo Room at the Inanda Club has secured its spot as one of Johannesburg’s most sought-after venues – and it’s easy to see why. With its beautiful setting overlooking the flawless polo fields, together with the backdrop of Sandton, there simply isn’t a more perfect setting in the city for any event, whether corporate or private.

From sophisticated soirees and big birthday bashes to fabulous fundraisers and wondrous weddings, The Polo Room has seen it all, and hosted each and every splendid occasion with effortless elegance. In fact, with a team of experts on hand to take care of everything from decor to food and all the miscellanea, you won’t have to lift a finger.

CATERING The talented and extremely professional team at By Word Of Mouth is the exclusive caterer to The Polo Room, and ensures that guests receive only the highest-quality, freshest and most delectable meals.

Backed by years of experience in hospitality, the team – headed by founder Karen Short – will run your event from start to finish, with seamless elegance and professionalism that is hard to beat. In working together with the By Word Of Mouth team, you will be

able to completely customise your event, catering for any kosher or halaal needs and ensuring nothing but happy guests.

dEcor When it comes to decor, the highly skilled team – which regularly travels to fabulous international events for inspiration – will ensure that your exact vision will be realised, and even elevated to a level you could only dream of! Everything from flowers to centrepieces, and all the magnificent details in-between, will really make your event come to life – and the stress of all the planning will be taken off your hands.

Venues and capacities Room Name The Polo Room

Cocktail

Banquet served

Cinema

600

400

750

MEETING SPACES The Polo Room can host up to 1 000 guests standing and 400 guests seated, and with ample parking, you are given nothing but convenience from the outset. Accommodation is available on-site at the Inanda Club.

The Polo Room and By Word Of Mouth strive to continuously remain on top of their game, mixing timeless elegance and chic trends to bring guests events they will talk about for years to come.

ThePoloRoom

Forrest Rd & 6th Ave, Inanda, Sandton +27 (0)79 492 3863 thepoloroom@bywordofmouth.co.za www.poloroom.co.za

THE MEETINGS & EVENT PLANNER 2019 •

37

gauteng

Indaba Hotel, Spa & Conference Centre Fourways

Meeting spaces 24 Max pax 800 Accommodation 258 rooms

Venues and capacities Room Name Cinema Auditorium 264 Gin School Lecture Room 2-5 Lecture Room 6 Lecture Room 7 Lecture Room 8 Lecture Room 9-12 Lecture Room 13 Lecture Room 14 Lecture Room 15 & 16 Boardroom Ingidini Injabulo Kgotla Lethabo Ndaba Palace

Classroom -

U-shape -

Boardroom -

Banquet -

Cocktail -

Dinner/banquet -

-

-

-

-

-

24

-

20 60 80 120 30 30 30 70 200 800 1 000 200 -

10 30 60 100 20 25 20 50 120 500 660 120 -

10 25 40 50 20 25 20 30 50 530 50 -

10 20 25 20 20 -

150 500 750 100 100

180 700 1 000 150 130

120 450 450 70

ACCOMMODATION

Just north of the fast-paced business world of Sandton lies the Indaba Hotel, Spa & Conference Centre. It is a compelling blend of business-like convenience and efficiency, with a relaxed atmosphere and warm country hospitality.

The esteemed Indaba Hotel is the ideal accommodation option for travellers who crave a bit of tranquility during a visit to the bustling city. With 258 rooms, the Indaba is conveniently located just north of Sandton, which means that guests don’t have to travel very far to get to their business meetings or any of the great attractions located close by.

LOCATION Nestled beneath the vista of the magnificent Magaliesberg mountains, the hotel is conveniently located in Fourways, Sandton, close to all main highways, O.R. Tambo International Airport and a mere 15 km from Lanseria International Airport.

CATERING

MEETING AND EVENT SPACES The award-winning conference, meeting and banqueting facilities are recognised as being some of the best and most comprehensive on the African continent. With an impressive selection of 24 multipurpose conference venues that can accommodate up to 2 000 delegates in total, banqueting facilities for up to 500 people and two restaurants, the hotel can cater for large numbers.

The Chief’s Boma is an African-themed restaurant, offering 350 seats, open for lunch and dinner daily. Here, guests can enjoy a traditional African cuisine buffet including game meats and hints of Afrikaner cuisine, while listening to a live marimba band.

TEAM BUILDING Because of its proximity to Gauteng’s business hub, Indaba Hotel is the ideal team-building venue. Whether you’re in need of a function venue for your corporate team event or conference in Johannesburg, the Indaba Hotel has an option that is perfect for you.

+27 (0)11 840 6600 indaba@indabahotel.co.za c/o William Nicol Drive & Pieter Wenning Road, Fourways, Johannesburg www.indabahotel.co.za

38 • THE MEETINGS & EVENT PLANNER 2019

The Barnyard Theatre

gauteng

Rivonia

Meeting spaces 3 Max pax 1 000 Accommodation OFF-SITE, WITHIN PROXMITY The Barnyard Theatre is South Africa’s premier event, conferencing and entertainment venue. In addition to The Barnyard Theatre in Rivonia, there are six other venues across the country. All are strategically designed and located to cater for large audiences while providing them with ease of access. The Barnyard Theatre delivers an unparalleled and show-stopping experience for its guests that simply cannot be found elsewhere.

LOCATION The Barnyard Theatre in Rivonia lies in Sunninghill, Johannesburg, just off the arterial Witkoppen and Rivonia roads, as well as the N1 – one of South Africa’s major national highways.

MEETING AND EVENT SPACES The Barnyard Theatre in Rivonia features a main venue with a beautiful and unique wooden interior, with a seating capacity of 566 using the venue’s standard seating arrangement, and 1 000 if done cinema-style, 400 with a roundtable set-up, or 800 for standing events.

The conference room is separate to the show venue, with a slick and stylish white interior, seating up to 120 in a cinema arrangement. The Barnyard Theatre in Rivonia also has a separate restaurant area that can be hired for private functions or meeting rooms, for up to 100 guests.

ACCOMMODATION While there is no on-site accommodation, visitors can be referred to a wonderful variety of accommodation in close proximity.

CATERING The Barnyard does all its catering in-house. The venue is able to customise a menu for any occasion – from buffet, to canapes, casual pizzas and finger snack platters.

Team Building & Conferencing The Barnyard’s shows are an ideal outing for team building and the venue offers a fun, motivational drumming seminar. Rivonia Barnyard is ideal for conferencing and offers affordable full day, all-inclusive conference packages.

Venues and capacities Room Name

Standard seating

Cinema

Standing events

Main venue

566

1 000

800

-

120

-

100

-

-

Conference room Restaurant area

barnyardtheatres barnyardtheatre The Barnyard Theatre Barnyard Theatres

Rivonia Crossing 2, Cnr Witkoppen and Rivonia Road, Sunninghill +27 (0)87 236 3088 events@barnyardtheatre.co.za www.barnyardtheatre.co.za

THE MEETINGS & EVENT PLANNER 2019 •

39

gauteng

Brakpan Meeting spaces 11 Max pax 5 000 Accommodation 105 rooms

TT H H EE

EI XN HC I EB NI T T II OV NE

VENUES AND CAPACITIES Room Name Rio Room 1 Rio Room 2 Rio Room 3 Rio Suites Rio Ballroom Sun Park Big Top Arena Afrisun Boardroom Mardi Gras Theatre Welcome Centre Lounge Lapa

Banquet Boardroom Cinema 60 30 60 60 30 60 60 240 330 1 000 700 250 30 80

30 120 250 800 700 18 200 35 -

Enter the magical world of glittering entertainment and endless fun, and be greeted by a wide selection of delectable restaurants. Carnival City was designed with amusement in mind, offering an eye-catching arrangement of large circus-tent buildings festively decorated with roller-coaster models, clown murals, and jesters in costume – visitors will revel in the playful ambience.

LOCATION Located in Brakpan, just 24 km away from O.R. Tambo International Airport, Carnival City is the perfect conference, play and stay destination.

MEETING AND EVENT SPACES Giving your event the elegant, professional edge, Carnival City has a selection of 11 conference and meeting rooms. Equipped to host a wide range of events, from small meetings to large conferences, Carnival City ensures that your event goes off without a

60 300 400 5 000 2 500 500 50 -

Cocktail 60 60

Schoolroom 30 30

U-shape 30 30

60 200 400 5 000 2 500 400 50 150

30 120 250 800 700 200 15 -

30 120 250 800 700 200 35 -

hitch. It offers a multipurpose conferencing facility with an indoor area and outdoor space equipped to host lifestyle events, music festivals, launches and other experiences.

ACCOMMODATION Offering four-star accommodation in Brakpan, Carnival City Hotel boasts an outdoor pool and is the ideal base to explore Carnival City and its entertainment opportunities. With endless fun-filled opportunities for the whole family, don’t worry about driving back home – simply book your stay at this conveniently situated hotel.

CATERING Carnival City offers the best restaurants and dining facilities covering a range of cuisines. Whether you’re craving a sit-down meal or a quick bite from a fast food outlet, there are a range of flavours on offer – from Asian delights to authentic Italian, seafood or burgers.

Corner Century and Elsburg Road, Brakpan, 1540, Gauteng +27 (0)11 898 7000 carnivalcity@suninternational.com www.suninternational.com/carnival-city

40 • THE MEETINGS & EVENT PLANNER 2019

RECOGNISING THE WOMEN IN MICE In 2014, Meetings magazine – The Meetings & Event Planner’s sister publication – started a nationwide search for the Top 40 Women in the MICE industry, in order to pay tribute to them. Having so many outstanding women who are doing amazing things for this industry, we should be proud of them and celebrate their achievements.

Each year, the women who make the list are proud ambassadors of the MICE industry. This list is not just about event planners – it covers everyone in the industry, from DMCs to exhibition organisers to venue personnel. For you to make the list, we consider everything from your ability to motivate those you work with and the influence you have over clients and peers, to the amount of money you generate or simply the passion you have for this industry.

NOMINATE YOUR WOMEN IN MICE TODAY Do you know such a woman? She makes her job seem completely effortless and is the one you call to “make it happen”. She runs a successful operation and makes a difference wherever she goes.

Help us give these women the recognition they deserve and nominate someone to be part of the Top 40 Women in MICE.

Send an email to wim@3smedia.co.za and we will notify you when entries open for the 2019 edition of the Top 40 Women in MICE.

The Planner

@theplannerguru

@theplannerguru

Meeting spaces 18 Max pax 10 500 Accommodation 238 rooms At Time Square, the luxury is in the detail. From the moment you walk in, you are instantly captivated by the intriguing concept of time as you are presented with large clock displays, grand timepieces and architectural marvels. By making you ever mindful of the present, the horological decor encourages you to live fully in the now.

LOCATION As part of the Menlyn Maine precinct, South Africa’s first ‘green city’ and one of Pretoria’s most popular points of interest, Time Square is where inspirational

Venues AND capacities Room Name

Meeting Meeting Meeting Meeting Meeting Cocktail Banquet Banquet Cabaret Boardroom U-shape Cinema Schoolroom (x3) Schoolroom (x2) Buffet Served Buffet Hotel – First Floor Pool Terrace & Bar (on request) Diamond 1/2 500 400 270 400 400 400 260 Diamond 1 175 175 140 150 160 200 100 Diamond 2 175 175 140 150 160 200 100 Jade 12 Emerald 1 16 12 32 27 18 20 Emerald 2 16 12 32 27 18 20 Emerald 3 16 12 32 27 18 20 Emerald 1/2 32 32 64 54 36 60 50 60 48 Emerald 2/3 32 32 64 54 36 60 50 60 48 Emerald 1/2/3 52 48 96 84 36 80 70 80 56 Hotel – Second Floor Moonstone 16 10 39 18 12 Garnet 18 10 39 18 12 Quartz 18 10 39 18 12 Hotel 12th Floor Lobby & Transit Lounge Room Name Meeting Boardroom HOTEL – MEZZANINE Onyx 12 Sapphire 12 Ruby 12 Opal 12 Hotel – 14th Floor Azurite 13 Jasper 8 Pyrite 12 Hotel – 15th Floor Sunset Bar (on request)

Room Name

Meeting Boardroom ARENA

Concert seated

8 500

Concert standing

10 500

Banquet

1 300

Cabaret Served

Dance Buffet

Dance Served Shaped

300 132 132 48 48 64

300 120 120 30 30 50

400 160 160 30 30 50

-

-

-

architecture, green thinking and community spirit combine and invite you to experience balanced and responsible living. Make every moment count at Time Square.

MEETING AND EVENT SPACES At Time Square, every meeting room is designed to be a game-changer, a place that fosters success.

The rooms are conducive to productive workshops, strategic thinking and effective team building, while offering inspiring locations in which to do business in the heart of Menlyn Maine. The complex boast spacious facilities that can accommodate events large or small. Time Square will boast a top-of-line 8 500-seater arena and conference centre with world-class facilities.

ACCOMMODATION Suited to both business and play, The Maslow Time Square is a 238-room specialist business hotel that has been prudently crafted to facilitate all today’s business needs. Boasting 17 floors, with premium accommodation all under one roof, the hotel is packed with state-of-the-art facilities and technology that will delight any business executive. The hotel opened in March 2018.

CATERING To bring you an extraordinary culinary offering never seen before, Time Square has partnered with top chefs and sommeliers that offer experiential dining at its best. From concept kitchens to casual cuisine, Time Square has combined flavour with five-star quality to bring you a variety of premium restaurants all under one roof.

LOWER ARENA Topaz

16

Topaz 2

16

Topaz 1/2

32

209 Aramis Avenue, Waterkloof Glen Ext 2, 0181, Pretoria, Gauteng +27 (0)860 846 377 tsqmeetings@suninternational.com www.suninternational.com/time-square

THE MEETINGS & EVENT PLANNER 2019 •

41

gauteng

Pretoria

gauteng

the forum the campus

the forum turbine hall

Meeting spaces 16 Max pax 700 Accommodation off-site

Meeting spaces 10 Max pax 1 000 Accommodation off-site Restored in 2005, turbine hall is an integral part of Johannesburg’s architectural history, situated in the city’s art and cultural precinct.

The iconic the forum turbine hall is the city’s most coveted wedding and party venue and is host to a range of world-class events and conferences.

This five-star conference and event venue, set among manicured gardens and light-filled courtyards, is multifaceted and caters to a variety of occasions and guests. The forum | the campus has Wi-Fi, state-of-the-art technology and underground parking for 120 vehicles and open parking for 400. As always, VENUES AND CAPACITIES Room Name Cinema Schoolroom Banquet U-shape guests will be treated to fine food, innovative style and excellent service. auditoria

ivory auditorium 464 LOCATION ebony auditorium 204 The forum | the campus is located at the Campus Office Park in Bryanston, Entertainment Areas 1 km from the N1 and just off triple volume area William Nicol Drive. A Gautrain bus the courtyard stop is within walking distance. the orangery the gallery MEETING AND EVENT SPACES With 16 conference and function conference rooms rooms, it’s the ideal space for the space 200 business meetings or fabulous ultramarine 80 cocktail parties. Facilities are indigo 120 comprised of five conference rooms, indigo I 60 three boardrooms, two auditoriums and six function venues, with a indigo II 40 capacity to host conferences varying cobalt 24 from 5 to 500 pax, dinners and aquamarine 50 weddings for up to 400 pax and 90 cocktail functions for up to 1 000 pax. graphite vermillion 90 CATERING boardrooms All catering is offered in-house by sepia (seats 8) an expert team of chefs. Halaal and jade (seats 8) kosher options are available.

42 • THE MEETINGS & EVENT PLANNER 2019

Cocktail

-

-

-

-

-

400 400 100 100

-

800 800 150 200

150 50 80 40 20 14 30 50 50

300 40 80 50 40 20 40 56 56

30 34 30 12 30 30 30

500 48 60 30 24 18 25 50 50

-

-

-

-

Cnr Sloane & Main Road, Bryanston +27 (0)11 575 3888 info@theforum.co.za theforum.co.za

LOCATION Situated in Newtown, just over the Nelson Mandela bridge, the forum | turbine hall is easily

accessed from the Gautrain Park Station and the nearest bus stop is only one street away. There is secure parking available for 200 cars.

MEETING AND EVENT SPACES

exhibitions or conferences varying from 10 to 500 pax, dinners for up to 300 pax and cocktail parties for up to 1 000 pax. There is also a trendy, upmarket bar, private dining area and chef’s table.

A historical, urban-chic power station, turbine hall has been converted into an amazing conference and special events venue. Facilities are comprised of conference rooms and function venues, with a capacity to host

In-house catering, which can be tailored to suit an array of dietary requirements, is offered and prepared by turbine hall's expert chefs.

CATERING

VENUES AND CAPACITIES Room Name U-shape Schoolroom Cinema Banquet Cocktail Entertainment Areas glass house 60 250 500 300 700 turbine hall 250 400 300 1 000 the turbines 200 400 underground 50 80 bar chef’s table 20 40 southern boiler house foyer 600 (with glass house only) the deck 50 100 200 conference rooms the steam room 30 60 84 the engine room 26 48 60 the coal hopper 20 30 45 the power house 30 30 60 40 24

65 Ntemi Piliso Street, Newtown +27 (0)11 492 3888 info@theforum.co.za theforum.co.za

the forum embassy hill

Meeting spaces 2 Max pax 150 Accommodation 5 rooms the forum white light offers ample natural light beaming through stackable glass doors on either side of the venue. Along with the high ceiling, this creates a great sense of light and space.

LOCATION the forum white light is located in the perfect country setting, a mere 8 km from Lanseria Airport.

MEETING AND EVENT SPACES The forum | white light caters for bigger groups looking to host something more private and exclusive. l’antico giardino caters for smaller functions. The mild weather all year round in Joburg makes outdoor dining pleasurable and relaxing. Set under a tree canopy, l’antico giardino welcomes families looking for a farm-to-table-style lunch and offers itself for bespoke functions.

a former Dutch embassy, has been lovingly refurbished to offer guests a relaxed, premium experience while still evoking that essential feeling of seclusion and home-away-from-home charm.

Historic architecture and carefully selected decor are harmoniously blended, setting the venue apart from the daily hustle and bustle of Cape Town.

CATERING The forum company serves awardwinning food of the highest quality, sourced locally and prepared with love. No outside catering is allowed. Halaal and kosher options available.

LOCATION The forum | embassy hill is located in Constantia, one of the most prestigious suburbs in South Africa, about 15 km south of the centre of Cape Town.

MEETING AND EVENT SPACES This unique space is the perfect setting for entertaining special

guests, hosting strategic meetings and intimate celebrations.

With seven meeting spaces, it is the ideal venue for business meetings, weddings or cocktail parties.

Facilities are comprised of a conservatory, boardroom, meeting spaces and gardens with a capacity to host 150 pax.

ACCOMMODATION The four rooms at embassy hill are all different, as you would expect in a private house. All have a warm, familial feeling – created with tactile materials and a South African sensibility.

CATERING All catering is offered in-house by an expert team of chefs. Halaal and kosher options are available.

VENUES AND CAPACITIES

The forum company’s accommodation, The Quarters, next to the forum | white light

VENUES AND CAPACITIES Theatre 100 40

Meeting spaces 7 Max pax 150 Accommodation 4 rooms This iconic landmark,

is set in a natural environment with views of the garden and surrounding countryside. It is the ideal accommodation solution for a private breakaway or even business travellers and sleeps up to 10. Breakfast is included.

ACCOMMODATION

Room Name white light l’antico giardino

gauteng | WESTERN CAPE

the forum white light

Schoolroom 80 30

U-shape 50 30

Banquet 150 80

Cocktail 200 120

Portion 17, Farm 543, Nooitgedacht, Pine Valley Road, Lanseria +27 (0)11 575 3888 info@theforum.co.za theforum.co.za

Room Name conservatory drawing room (when combined with above) dining room library sun room pool bar pool room

Theatre 140

Schoolroom 90

U-shape 70

Banquet 150

Cocktail 150

-

-

-

-

150

30 40

24 30

24 25 24

30 40 40 40

60 60 70

89 Southern Cross Drive, Bel Ombre, Constantia +27 (0)87 365 3888 embassyhill@theforum.co.za theforum.co.za THE MEETINGS & EVENT PLANNER 2019 •

43

gauteng

InterContinental Johannesburg O.R. Tambo Airport

O.R. Tambo International Airport

Meeting spaces 11 Max pax 80 Accommodation 138 rooms South Africa’s only luxury airport hotel, InterContinental Johannesburg O.R. Tambo offers world-class comforts and personalised service.

the Mezzanine floor offers three executive boardrooms, one featuring state-of-the-art video conferencing.

LOCATION

ACCOMMODATION

Situated within walking distance from Johannesburg’s O.R. Tambo International Airport, this hotel is a convenient destination for business travellers. The Sandton CBD can easily be accessed via the Gautrain, allowing easy access to and from the hotel.

The 138 well-appointed, spacious bedrooms are tastefully decorated with luxurious showers, blackout curtains, and are completely soundproof. The hotel offers complimentary Wi-Fi.

MEETING AND EVENT SPACES

Quills Restaurant is open 24 hours a day, serving modern African and contemporary cuisine.

For private functions, a selection of menus is available to choose from or they can be tailormade to suit your requirements.

A total of 11 meeting rooms, split on two levels, can accommodate groups of various sizes up to a maximum of 114 people. The Okavango room is an ideal cocktail or dinner venue, while

CATERING

Venues and capacities Cinema

Schoolroom

Banquet

Cocktail

Boardroom

Etosha

Room Name

-

-

-

-

8

Kafue

-

-

-

-

8

30 20 80 80 30 30 -

20 15 40 40 18 18 -

30 20 50 40 10 10 -

20 15 80 60 30 30 -

20 16 40 30 12 12 12 8 12

Kalahari Karoo Okavango Savuti Savuti East Savuti West St. Lucia Timbavati Umfolozi

InterConJoburgORT tsogosun tsogosun Tsogo Sun

44 • THE MEETINGS & EVENT PLANNER 2019

O.R. Tambo International Airport +27 (0)11 961 5400 meetings@icairport.com www.tsogosun.com/intercontinental-or-tambo-airport

gauteng

FNB Conference Centre Sandton Meeting spaces 20 Max pax 200 Accommodation 120 rooms Nestled in the heart of Johannesburg’s premier business district, the FNB Conference Centre is surrounded by beautifully landscaped gardens, offering a tranquil and secure experience in the busy metropolis.

Extensive renovations to all meeting and syndicate rooms, as well as the foyer and auditorium have recently been completed.

A variety of outdoor spaces are available for guest use, suitable for group work, tea breaks or alfresco lunches, including a deck area outside the auditorium, covered patio outside the restaurant, and another patio overlooking the Acacia Circle.

LOCATION Ideally located on Grayston Drive, Sandown, the FNB Conference Centre allows easy access to the M1 highway, Gautrain Sandton station, Johannesburg Stock Exchange, Sandton City and Nelson Mandela Square, with a string of some of the finest dining and entertainment spots.

A complimentary shuttle service to and from the Gautrain station is available for guests, as well as ample, secure, complimentary parking. There are beautifully landscaped gardens and a pool and braai area, which is very popular after conferencing.

MEETING AND EVENT SPACES The Conference Centre boasts a 160-seater auditorium, with access to an outdoor patio and the gardens, 17 conference rooms, and three executive boardrooms, each fully equipped with AV and presentation technologies.

A portable video conferencing unit is available, which can be used in a number of conference rooms. Four syndicate rooms are available, which are well suited for interviews and breakaway sessions.

Depending on the seating style, the conference rooms comfortably seat up to 200 delegates, while the boardrooms comprise the uBukhosi Suite seating 20 people, the Executive Boardroom seating 30 people, and the Executive Dining

Room seating 20 people. The boardrooms are booked on a Premium Conference Package and include butler service and lunch at the venue.

Both the uBukhosi Suite and the Executive Dining Room are ideal for small private dining functions.

Various conference packages are available, to suit your requirements. A 15% discount on drinks at the Liquid Lounge bar or a selection of complimentary bar snacks is offered for one hour before or after your event or conference.

Spacious public areas are also available for networking sessions between meetings, while the Centre has recently installed a number of individual work pods that are small, private work spaces, ideal for use before or after meetings, equipped with power and USB ports.

Wi-Fi is available throughout the conference centre.

ACCOMMODATION The FNB Conference Centre has 120 contemporary en-suite bedrooms, fully equipped with coffee stations, a fridge, a hair dryer, a limited DStv bouquet and Wi-Fi. For guests seeking longer-term accommodation, three fully furnished, self-catering apartments are available, each with their own private garden. Laundry and dry cleaning services are available.

DID YOU KNOW?

The centre’s portable video conferencing equipment provides the ultimate in business convenience and can be used in just about any of the conference rooms

CATERING The buffet dining room is open daily for breakfast, lunch and dinner. While the buffet lunch is the popular choice for conference delegates, the centre also offers the option of finger lunches. A surcharge does apply for this option. Kosher and halaal requirements can be arranged through external providers with 48hour notice.

A popular venue for post-event drinks and snacks, or for hosting braais and outdoor events, is the Liquid Lounge bar next to the pool. The coffee shop is open daily (weekdays) for speciality coffees, confectionaries and light meals. Room service is available for hotel guests for lunch and dinner daily.

114 Grayston Drive, Sandown, Sandton, 2196 +27 (0)11 269 8000/087 032 8000 bookings@fnb.co.za fnbconferencecentre.co.za

THE MEETINGS & EVENT PLANNER 2019 •

45

gauteng

Radisson Blu Gautrain Hotel

Sandton

Meeting spaces 14 Max pax 220 Accommodation 220 rooms

Ram’s Flowers MEETING SPACES

The Radisson Blu Gautrain Hotel is in the city’s premier financial and business district in Sandton, Johannesburg – the economic powerhouse of South Africa. The innovative design of the hotel is complemented by dramatic views of Sandton and it is connected to all that the city has to offer.

The hotel offers full or half-day conference packages in any of our 10 conference rooms, of which some are multipurpose meeting rooms ideal for conferences and cocktail functions; or for more intimate meetings, there are two executive boardrooms. All venues include free high-speed uncapped Wi-Fi. Our signature venue is Skyview - our rooftop venue with spectacular skyline views of Sandton.

LOCATION The Radisson Blu Gautrain Hotel is conveniently located in the heart of Sandton. Diagonally opposite the Sandton Gautrain Station, the hotel is a mere 55 steps away and within close proximity to Sandton Convention Centre, Sandton City Shopping Mall and Nelson Mandela Square.

Boardroom Banquet Schoolroom U-shape Cinema/theatre

Cabaret

Cocktail

Platform 1

8

-

-

-

-

-

-

Platform 2

10

-

-

-

-

-

-

Main Station 1 Main Station 2 Main Station 3 Main Station 1+2 Main Station 2+3 Main Station 1+2+3 Junction 1 Junction 2 Junction 3 Junction 2+3 Gautrain Room

34 34 34 64 64 90 24 30 16 42 -

40 50 50 90 90 140 30 80 30 120 200

36 36 36 72 72 108 30 60 33 92 149

30 30 30 60 60 90 18 45 24 63 -

64 64 64 120 120 220 42 108 55 156 215

32 40 40 70 70 112 24 64 24 96 160

35 35 35 70 70 105 30 80 30 120 200

Cnr of Rivonia Road and West Street, Sandton, 2196, Gauteng +27 (0)11 286 1000 Meetings.gautrain@radissonblu.com www.radissonblu.com/hotelsandton-johannesburg RadissonBluGautrainHotel

46 • THE MEETINGS & EVENT PLANNER 2019

grown from a small flower stall in Joubert’s Park street corner to a successful retailer and wholesaler based in Multiflora Market (City Deep).

Accommodation Enjoy a comfortable stay in any of our 220 rooms and suites.

Guests can enjoy free high-speed uncapped Wi-Fi, 24-hour room service and our complimentary hotel shuttle within a 5 km radius. There is also an elegant outdoor swimming pool and terrace, and a fully equipped fitness centre open 24 hours that is located on the 10th floor of the hotel.

Venues and capacities Room Name

E stablished in the early 1940’s, Rams flowers has

RadissonBlu Gautrain,Sandton Johannesburg

The business is being run by the 3 rd generation of the Padayachy family. We cater for weddings, special occasions, corporates, funerals and supply flowers nationally and into many parts of Africa.

Rams Flowers Multiflora Market (City Deep) +2783 663 6894 or +2773 603 1831 info@ramsflowers.co.za

The Protea Hotel Marriott ÂŽ Johannesburg Balalaika Sandton offers well-equipped conference facilities suitable to accommodate any event, from intimate meetings to large gala events of up to 300 attendees, with a little bit of country in the heart of the city.

Johannesburg Balalaika Sandton Est. 1949

Johannesburg Balalaika Sandton Est. 1949

WESTERN CAPE

Wine, dine and meet in the Western Cape

1

THE WINE AND GARDEN ROUTE An exceptional journey through the rolling mountains of the Western Cape province will take you to the finest wine estates and vineyards, some of which are centuries old. With 18 official wine routes through the Western Cape, there are abundant places to see.

2

3

4

5

From Cape Agulhus, where the Atlantic and Indian oceans meet, to Camps Bay, the Western Cape offers striking and dramatic ocean views. Blessed with a beautiful coastline with soft white sand, the area has some of the world’s finest beaches.

Ideal for hosting all sporting occasions, the Western Cape is home to Newlands Cricket Ground, a favourite for international cricket test matches, with the Newlands and Cape Town stadiums just a short hop, skip and jump away.

Once housing some of South Africa’s most ‘infamous’ political prisoners, including Nelson Mandela, the Robben Island prison is now a World Heritage Site and museum.

Visiting the towns of Franschhoek, Stellenbosch and False Bay will give deeper insights into South Africa’s history.

The province provides an ideal setting for some of South Africa’s top hotels, which offer so much more than just a place to rest your head. When you’re spoilt for choice on what to do, where to go and what to see, accommodation is the least of your worries in the Western Cape.

SCENIC SEA VIEWS

48 • THE MEETINGS & EVENT PLANNER 2019

SPORTS AND RECREATION

BE A HISTORY BUFF

VENUE WITH A VISTA

Meeting spaces 5 Max pax 300 Accommodation 329 rooms Set on the historic Cape waterfront, The Table Bay hotel was created as a tribute to its famous namesake and has set its own standard in international service, cuisine and luxury. The magnificent hotel straddles the antique breakwater with a style that is both innovative and entirely in keeping with its surroundings. Its contemporary architectural design and execution are the result of transcontinental cooperation.

LOCATION Situated in the historic Victoria & Alfred Waterfront, The Table Bay hotel is perfectly positioned against the stunning backdrops of Table Mountain and the Atlantic Ocean, and provides easy access to the top places to visit in Cape Town.

each suited to a certain style of function, event or conference. Located on the mezzanine level, The Business Centre offers internet and printing facilities and has three business cubicles equipped with all the necessary modern features.

ACCOMMODATION Location, location, location: if you are looking for a place to stay in Cape Town, Table Bay offers five-star luxury holiday accommodation on the seafront, with views to match. Each of the 329 luxury hotel rooms enjoys uninterrupted sea-facing views either of Table Mountain across the working Table Bay Harbour, or of Robben Island in the Atlantic Ocean. Picture perfect in every way, The Table Bay is the Mothers City’s best kept secret.

MEETING AND EVENT SPACES

CATERING

The Table Bay is home to a great selection of function and conference venues. Whether you are hosting a conference for 300 delegates or planning your annual office cocktail party, the hotel has a stylish venue to suit your needs. Choose from five beautiful venues,

Table Bay’s top-class chefs will be able to cater for your awards lunches and dinners to impeccable standards.

A variety of dining options are on offer, which, if the rave reviews are to be believed, are bound to impress your diners.

Venues and capacities Room Name

Banquet Buffet

Banquet Served

Boardroom

Cinema

Cabaret

Cocktail

Dance Buffet

Dance Served

Schoolroom

U-shape

-

-

10

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

Pre-Function Boardroom

32

32

24

50

20

50

-

-

24

18

The Atlantic Restaurant

120

120

-

-

-

150

-

-

-

-

The Ballroom

200

200

84

300

125

300

152

152

144

63

The Pavilion

72

96

30

120

45

120

-

18

72

27

Business Centre Boardroom

Quay 6, Victoria & Alfred Water Front, Cape Town, 8001, Western Cape +27 (0)21 406 5000 tbhres@suninternational.com www.suninternational.com/table-bay

THE MEETINGS & EVENT PLANNER 2019 •

49

WESTERN CAPE

Cape Town

WESTERN CAPE

The Spier Hotel

Stellenbosch

Meeting spaces 12 Max pax 370 Accommodation 153 rooms

reception area, lounge, bar, terrace and restaurant. The decor features a sophisticated, vibrant style with strong colours, patterns and textures, and a collection of art that explores contemporary South African culture.

VENUES AND CAPACITIES Room Name

CATERING Theatre

Schoolroom

U-shape

Boardroom

Cabaret

Herringbone

Banquet

Banquet + dancefloor

Cocktail

370 100

210 80

-

-

180 80

200 -

60 220 90 80

180 -

200 370 120 150

80 80 80 160 240

50 50 50 100 150

30 30 30 60 90

30 30 30 60 90

40 40 40 80 120

40 40 40 80 120

60 60 60 100 160

100 130

60 60 60 100 200

-

-

-

12 22

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

250

200

370

-

12

-

-

-

-

CONFERENCE CENTRE

Tamboer Lounge Auditorium Riverside Terrace Old Wine Cellar BREAKAWAY ROOMS

Simonsberg Stellenberg Helderberg 2 rooms combined 3 rooms combined MANOR HOUSE

De Clerque Van Lievens (casual seating) Reynolds INDIVIDUAL SPACES

Courtyard Spier Hotel Boardroom

Village-style buildings, lush green lawns and spacious rooms situated next to the calming Eerste River are the defining characteristics of the four-star Spier Hotel.

The design is reminiscent of the Bo-Kaap or Mediterranean villages where pedestrians have right of way.

LOCATION The Spier Hotel is situated on the historic Spier wine farm in the heart of the Stellenbosch winelands, just 20 minutes from Cape Town International Airport.

MEETING AND EVENT SPACES Spier, a historic farm in the Stellenbosch winelands, has 12

50 • THE MEETINGS & EVENT PLANNER 2019

different meeting venues – ranging from the 370-seater Auditorium to the intimate Manor House. Varying in size, the spaces can host large and small conferences, business meetings, workshops, seminars and exhibitions. By holding your conference at Spier, you’re supporting its Growing for Good learning initiatives, which empower staff and communities to create positive social and environmental change.

ACCOMMODATION Spier Hotel’s 153 rooms are clustered around six courtyards, each boasting its own swimming pool. Rolling lawns, gardens and walkways connect the rooms with the

There is plenty of choice when planning a day or two at Spier. Guests can picnic on the lawns next to the river under the trees, or enjoy wholesome food fresh from the farm at Eight Restaurant. Award-winning wine can be enjoyed alongside delectable treats on the banks of the dam.

The Spier Hotel Wine Bar is a great space to unwind and chat over delicious snacks and wine or beer. Next door, the restaurant offers à la carte lunch and dinner, as well as Spier’s famous buffet breakfast.

Vadas Smokehouse & Bakery offers dishes that embrace and showcase the quality of ethically and locally sourced ingredients. A passion for cooking with fire and smoke takes centre stage, with a delicious range of pasture-reared meats – many of which are supplied by Spier’s very own Farmer Angus. There are delicious organic vegetarian options too.

TEAM BUILDING Spier makes use of various outsourced companies to provide exciting team-building activities for its guests.

R310 Lynedoch Road, Stellenbosch +27 (0)21 809 1100 info@spier.co.za www.spier.co.za spierwinefarm spierwinefarm SpierWineFarm

WESTERN CAPE

Le Franschhoek Hotel & Spa Franschhoek

Meeting spaces 5 Max pax 120 Accommodation 79 rooms Le Franschhoek Hotel & Spa is located in the gourmet capital of South Africa. Its distinctly Cape Dutch feel and stunning surrounds offer the most beautiful setting for any occasion.

features 79 en-suite rooms, two lavish villas and 16 double and single villas, all elegantly furnished and dispersed over the whole estate.

LOCATION

Three on-site restaurants cater specifically for guests’ needs. Breakfast, lunch and fine dining can be enjoyed within a casual atmosphere in our relaxing Le Verger restaurant, set against the exemplary mountain backdrop. The Sauvage restaurant is tailored for the more distinctive taste receptors.

An easy 80 km drive from Cape Town, the venue is located in picturesque Franschhoek, Western Cape.

MEETING AND EVENT SPACES Five versatile conference venues come equipped with conferencing equipment, and stunning views of either the towering mountains or gardens.

CATERING

TEAM BUILDING The hotel’s gardens are equipped for any form of outdoor team-building activity and conference venues can be considered as backup venues in case of inclement weather.

ACCOMMODATION Le Franschhoek Hotel & Spa offers unmatched accommodation in Franschhoek. The hotel

VENUES AND CAPACITIES Room Name

Chantilly St Germaine Fontainbleau La Pavillion Excelsior House Versailles

Schoolroom

Boardroom

Banquet

Cinema

U-shape

20 40 20 60 100 80

10 18 15 20 20

20 40 30 60 120 60

30 50 30 80 120 120

15 30 20 20 40

16 Minor Road, Franschhoek +27 (0)21 876 8900 banqueting@lefranschhoek.co.za www.lefranschhoek.co.za

LeFranschhoekHotelandSpa le_franschhoek lefranschhoekhotel

THE MEETINGS & EVENT PLANNER 2019 •

51

WESTERN CAPE

Max pax 15 000 – 18 000 Accommodation OFF-SITE VENUES AND CAPACITIES Room Name

FLOOR SPACE (m2)

HEIGHT (m)

Theatre

Classroom

U-shape

Boardroom

Banquet

Banquet Buffet

Cocktail

Exhibition Booths (3m x 3m)

Auditorium 1 - Room 1.10 Full Ballroom - Room 1.20 Boardroom - Room 1.30 Meeting Room - Room 1.40 Meeting Suites (x5) - Rooms 1.51 - 1.55

1 170 1 876 73 375

16 8 3.3 4

1 516 1 980 330

1 516 1 296 220

69

20 -

1 300 220

1 020 180

1 500 40 300

-

35

3.3

24

18

15

18

-

-

-

-

Meeting Room - Room 1.60 Meeting Suites (x4) - Rooms 1.71 - 1.74 Auditorium 2 - Room 1.80 Meeting Suites (x3) - Room 1.91 - 1.93 Meeting Room 2.40 Meeting Room 2.60 Roof Terrace Room - Room 2.80 Full Exhibition Centre (Hall 1 - 4B) Registration Foyer

375 25/35 490 25/35 375 375 370 11 399 315

4 3.3 8 3.3 4 4 4.2 9 - 18 4

330 24 612 24 330 330 380 9 500 300

220 18 612 18 220 220 220 7 720 200

69 15 15 69 69 69

18 18 60

100

120

220 220 220 190 6 100 120

180 180 180 190 5 120 150

300 300 300 250 7 300 220

-

Room Name

FLOOR SPACE (m2)

HEIGHT (m)

Theatre

Classroom

U-shape

Boardroom

Banquet

Banquet Buffet

Cocktail

Exhibition Booths (3m x 3m)

CTICC 1

CTICC 2

Exhibition Hall - Hall 5

1 569

9

1 387

1 050

-

-

720

720

684

65

Exhibition Hall - Hall 6 Exhibition Hall - Hall 7 Meeting Room - Pincushion Meeting Room - Aloe Meeting Room - Arum Meeting Room - Disa Meeting Pod - Nerina + Protea Exhibition Hall - Hall 8 Exhibition Hall - Hall 9 Exhibition Hall - Hall 10 - Ballroom/Banqueting Meeting Pod - Daisy + Freesia + Orchid Terrace Rooms - Watsonia + Bluebell Harbour View Mountain View

1 782 1 586 147 40 41 45 366 1 468 1 944 1 489 486 398 222 561

9 9 2.8 2.8 2.7 2.7 4.9 10 10 10 3.15 3.15 -

1 722 1 386 32 40 37 337 1 344 1 890 1 386 478 380 -

1 260 1 050 15 18 24 306 864 1 248 960 381 327 -

-

-

840 720

15 15 12 72 96 81 -

24 16 14 18 84 108 90 -

800 720 170 600 920 680 250 220 -

836 684 180 648 864 648 236 204 -

92 60 103 70 -

52 • THE MEETINGS & EVENT PLANNER 2019

200 720 960 720 250 240 -

The Cape Town International Convention Centre (CTICC) is the leading venue for conferences, exhibitions and business events on the African continent. The CTICC boasts two state-of-the-art buildings – CTICC 1 and CTICC 2. Facilities include 21 400 m2 of multipurpose conference and exhibition space; two raked auditoria seating 1 516 and 612 delegates, respectively; two terrace rooms for up to 330 and 450 delegates; 47 breakout rooms accommodating between 20 and 370 delegates; and versatile banqueting rooms, including a 2 000 m2 grand ballroom. More importantly, the CTICC’s highly professional and friendly staff will ensure that your event is seamlessly delivered and one that your delegates will not forget.

CTICC 1: Convention Square, 1 Lower Long Street, Cape Town GPS co-ordinates: -33.915141°,18.425657° CTICC 2: Corner of Heerengracht Street and Rua Bartholomeu Dias Boulevard, Foreshore, Cape Town GPS co-ordinates: -33.91747°,18.42908° +27 (0)21 410 5000 info@cticc.co.za www.cticc.co.za facebook.com/CTICC @CTICC.Official official_cticc cape town international convention centre

WESTERN CAPE

Fancourt George

Meeting spaces 7 Max pax 400 Accommodation 133 rooms Fancourt has firmly positioned itself as an ideal destination for the corporate market, with its prime location offering easy access from leading business hotspots. Fancourt offers unrivalled views and breathtaking surrounds. The modern facilities, array of on- and off-site leisure offerings, and a wide choice of venues promise to satisfy even the most discerning client.

LOCATION This premier leisure resort is situated in the heart of the Garden Route, 7 km from the George Airport. The resort is superbly landscaped on 613 hectares of lush countryside, with the majestic Outeniqua Mountains as the perfect backdrop.

MEETING AND EVENT SPACES Fancourt’s delightful conference facilities are equipped with modern audiovisual and IT equipment and offer full business services including video conferencing.

With a 400-seater ballroom, boardroom and numerous breakaway rooms, Fancourt provides you with a variety of options to cater for your specific conferencing needs.

ACCOMMODATION Fancourt boasts not one but two accommodation offerings: the chic, five-star Fancourt Hotel, with 115 rooms, and the five-star Manor House, which is a

boutique hotel with 18 suites offering personalised, butler-style service. The hotel offers spacious and bright rooms, with twin- or king-size beds. The rooms are equipped with 55” televisions with sound bar and wireless streaming technology, while the bathrooms feature a walk-in rain shower and bathtub.

CATERING The Fancourt Estate offers a wide range of dining areas and private venues for exclusive functions, with each space able to meet all your catering needs.

Head chef Desmond Morgan has enjoyed a 25-year career in the food and beverage industry, and shows no signs of slowing down. With his feet firmly on the Fancourt grounds, Desmond has put imagination at the centre of what he calls the ‘Fancourt food experience’. Whether you’re hosting a corporate party, a gala dinner, a cocktail evening or a breakfast, Desmond and the team ensure that you and your guests are catered for.

TEAM BUILDING Fancourt provides an optimum setting for professional training and team-building sessions.

With its immaculate landscaping and range of fully equipped meeting rooms and venues, teams can enjoy business-oriented sessions in a relaxing and aesthetically pleasing environment.

Venues and capacities Room Name

Cinema

Classroom

U- shape

Herring bone

Coctail

Dinner/ banquet

Kingfisher

45

24

25

24

50

-

Grey Loerie

28

12

15

16

25

-

Knysna Loerie

20

12

10

8

25

-

Grey and Knysna Loerie

40

20

20

24

50

-

Owl

50

30

24

32

40

8

Eagle

24

14

18

32

35

12

Owl and Eagle

80

42

40

48

80

30

Balcony

50

-

-

-

100+

-

Plover

18

-

-

-

-

-

Inside Hall

400

200

60

250

350

250/350

-

-

-

-

150

-

Foyer

+27 (0)44 804 0000 Email: reservations@fancourt.co.za Physical address: Montagu Street, George, 6530 Website: www.fancourt.co.za

@Fancourt.SA

@FANCOURTSA

@fancourtsa

THE MEETINGS & EVENT PLANNER 2019 •

53

WESTERN CAPE

Two Oceans Aquarium V&A Waterfront

Meeting spaces 5 Max pax 1 000

Ideally situated in Cape Town’s V&A Waterfront, Two Oceans Aquarium is renowned for its magnificent displays as well as its unique function and conferencing venues. Whether hosting formal dinners, cocktail parties or conferences, why not explore, experience and engage at the Aquarium’s spectacular setting to ensure an unforgettable event.

LOCATION Two Oceans Aquarium is located in Cape Town’s bustling and vibrant V&A Waterfront.

MEETING AND EVENT SPACES The Auditorium at the Aquarium opens on to a

renovated deck overlooking the V&A Waterfront Marina, with a magnificent view of Table Mountain.

The venue is professionally fitted with audiovisual and conferencing equipment, and offers flexible seating arrangements. The I&J Ocean Exhibit is a majestic space offering views of marine life through a vast, seamless window. The space can accommodate up to 180 guests for an elegant dinner or 360 guests for a classy cocktail affair. For a real showstopper, the whole Aquarium can be utilised. Enthrall your guests with the wonders of the underwater world and afford them the opportunity to wander around the various galleries while enjoying refreshments – ideal for cocktail parties and gala dinners. The Predator Exhibit also offers a breathtaking setting to make any function memorable. Additionally, Avenue is a bespoke conferencing and event venue located in the hub of the V&A Waterfront, attached to Two Oceans Aquarium. This meeting and event space also overlooks the V&A Waterfront Marina and boasts a unique viewing panel into the Aquarium’s 1.7 million litre Ocean Exhibit.

ACCOMMODATION No on-site accommodation is offered; however, accommodation is available in and around the area.

CATERING The Aquarium offers a range of food and beverage options to suit different needs.

Venues and capacities Room Name Auditorium (conferencing)

Cinema

Cocktail

Seated w/ Dance Floor

Seated w/o Dance Floor

Schoolroom

Boardroom

U-shape

120

-

50

70

70

20

35

Auditorium (lunches)

-

-

-

40

-

-

-

Tranquility (day and night)

30

-

-

-

-

24

-

I&J Ocean Exhibit (18:00 onwards)

200

350

160

180

-

-

-

Predator Exhibit (18:00 onwards)

-

250

120

160

-

-

-

Entire Aquarium (18:00 onwards)

-

1 000

-

-

-

-

-

54 • THE MEETINGS & EVENT PLANNER 2019

Dock Road, V&A Waterfront, Cape Town +27 (0)21 418 3823 functions@aquarium.co.za www.aquarium.co.za

Cape Town

Meeting spaces 19 Max pax 600 Accommodation 482 rooms MEMORABLE EXPERIENCES await at The Westin Cape Town. Enjoy exclusive rooms with unique views over the V&A Waterfront and Table Mountain.

The hotel’s fantastic glass façade allows clear views of the breathtaking beauty of Table Mountain, Lion’s Head and the whole of Table Bay. LOCATION The Westin Cape Town is located 19 km from Cape Town International Airport, 3 km from the V&A Waterfront and adjacent to the Cape Town Convention Centre (CTICC). The hotel offers a complementary shuttle service to the V&A Waterfront and Century City.

MEETING AND EVENT SPACES The Westin Cape Town is an unmatched meeting, conference and banqueting venue, with 19 unique spaces. It offers some of the largest and most sophisticated hotel conference and banqueting facilities in the city, as well as a direct connection to the CTICC. Designed with the meeting planner in mind, the hotel’s personalised services make it effortless to provide a memorable experience for each and every invitee.

ACCOMMODATION

CATERING The culinary diversity will also delight. Enjoy the evening dining at Thirty7 Showkitchen or round off the day at Louis B’s Terrace and Raleigh’s Bar.

Each of The Westin Cape Town’s 482 guest rooms and suites are elegantly appointed and boast the latest amenities for guests’ total comfort and rejuvenation. The unparalleled city views will amaze guests and the iconic Heavenly Beds ensure a sound slumber for a restorative and productive stay.

Venues and capacities Room Name

Convention Square, 1 Lower Long Street, Cape Town + 27 (0)21 412 9999 01445.info@westin.com www.westincapetown.com

Alfred

Dimensions (m) 11 x 16 x 8

Area (sq ft) 176

Theatre Schoolroom Conference U-shape Reception Banquet -

-

8

-

-

-

Ballroom East

43 x 69 x 16

2 967

250

168

-

63

270

200

Ballroom West

43 x 69 x 16

2 967

250

168

-

63

270

200

Bartholomew Diaz 30 x 30 x 11

900

50

24

18

18

50

50

Da Gama and Diaz 59 x 30 x 11

1 770

140

84

36

45

120

-

Dassen Island

28 x 20 x 8

560

-

-

12

-

-

-

Duncan Dock

31 x 20 x 8

620

-

-

14

-

-

-

East Pier

24 x 12 x 8

288

-

-

8

-

-

-

Edward & Schappen Island Grand Ballroom

45 x 20 x 8

600

70

42

20

-

-

50

85 x 69 x 16

5 865

600

400

-

81

600

400

Marco Polo

21 28 x 11

588

25

24

18

18

-

30

Marion Island

27 x 12 x 8

324

-

-

10

-

-

-

Prince Edward

24 x 28 x 8

672

40

27

16

-

-

30

Robben Island

25 x 25 x 8

625

40

27

16

-

-

30

Robinson Dock

15 x 12 x 8

180

-

-

6

-

-

-

Schappen Island

21 x 20 x 8

420

-

-

12

-

-

20

Seal Island

18 x 25 x 8

450

-

-

12

-

-

20

Seal & Robben Island Sir Francis Drake

46 x 25 x 8

1 150

72

51

20

27

-

50

27 x 28 x 11

756

55

36

18

24

-

40

Sturrock Dock

15 x 12 x 8

180

-

-

6

Vasco da gama

30 x 30 x 11

900

60

36

18

Victoria

24 x 16 x 8

384

-

-

14

-

-

-

Victoria & Alfred

36 x 16 x 8

576

60

36

20

21

-

-

West Pier

25 x 18 x 8

463

-

-

12

-

-

-

The Westin Cape Town

@westincpt

24

-

-

70

50

@westincpt

THE MEETINGS & EVENT PLANNER 2019 •

55

WESTERN CAPE

The Westin Cape Town

Meeting spaces 5 Max pax 120 Accommodation 97 rooms

U-shape

Schoolroom

Meeting Room 1

40

40

20

60

-

-

-

40

30

Meeting Room 2

40

40

20

60

-

-

-

40

30

Meeting Room 1&2

90

90

50

120

100

80

80

60

70

Meeting 4

-

-

8

Meeting 5

-

-

20

40

-

-

-

30

15

Between Brandwag and Roux Roads, Worcester, 6849, Western Cape Tel: +27 (0)23 348 7200 goldenvalleyinfo@suninternational.com www.suninternational.com/golden-valley

56 • THE MEETINGS & EVENT PLANNER 2019

events, as well as corporate events and private dinners. It offers a multipurpose conferencing facility with an indoor venue and outdoor space equipped to host lifestyle events, music festivals, launches and other experiences.

LOCATION

ACCOMMODATION

Located in the heart of vibrant Cape Town, and just less than 20 minutes away from Cape Town International Airport, GrandWest offers guests the assurance of quality entertainment experiences, premium facilities and an unparalleled standard of service.

When your conference is over, extend your stay at The City Lodge, situated at Grandwest. This 176 room hotel is also only 20 minutes away from Cape Town International Airport, the city centre and the famous V&A Waterfront.

MEETING AND EVENT SPACES

CATERING

Corporate travellers are well rewarded at GrandWest, thanks to the excellent conferencing and meeting facilities.

GrandWest is the perfect setting for prestigious large-scale

GrandWest is home to a great selection of restaurants.

From family-friendly dining options to sophisticated restaurants, you’ll find an eatery

Venues and capacities

Dance Served

Boardroom

Banquet Served

Banquet Buffet

Golden Valley has a number of excellent meeting rooms and conference facilities in Worcester for intimate events

CATERING Golden Valley is home to some of the best restaurants in Worcester. Enjoy a pub lunch at Winners Sport Bar or treat the family to a home-style meal at Kuipers.

Dance Buffet

MEETING AND EVENT SPACES

ACCOMMODATION Situated within walking distance of the Golden Valley Casino and restaurants, Golden Valley Lodge provides a peaceful retreat in tastefully appointed rooms, which also offer beautiful views of the surrounding mountains.

Cocktail

LOCATION Situated in the picturesque Breede River Valley, and only an hour’s drive from Cape Town, the Golden Valley is one of the most charming venues in the Western Cape.

and special occasions. Choose from a versatile space that can accommodate larger functions or a smaller meeting room for more personal business dealings.

Cinema

Surrounded by captivating mountains and natural fynbos, Golden Valley is an intimate venue that’s both warm and inviting, offering exceptional personal service and a friendly experience for all. Off the beaten track and away from the bright lights of a major city, the beautiful Breede River Valley is a nature-lover’s paradise.

Cape Town

Meeting spaces 10 Max pax 6 866 Accommodation 176 rooms

As the largest entertainment destination of its kind in South Africa, GrandWest is a spectacular sight to behold.

This family-friendly destination offers the biggest selection of kids’ entertainment and fun activities in Cape Town, from ice skating to tenpin bowling all under one roof.

Room Name

WESTERN CAPE

Worcester

Room Name

Boardroom

Round tables

Schoolroom

Cocktail

Set menu

Theatre

U-shaped

25 25 20 -

550 35 35 80 200 -

600 58 58 -

900 85 85 500 70 40

600 50 50 80 200 -

850 75 75 100 160

25 25 15 -

Room Name

Standing concert

Seated concert

Schoolroom

Cocktail

Banquet

Boxing

Theatre

Sun Exhibits Sun Park Grand Arena

1600 2800 5048

1520 1650 4000

1500

1000 1400 2500

750 1100 -

1536 -

2028

Market Hall Good Hope Suite 1 Good Hope Suite 2 Hanover Street Jackson Hall Quarterdeck The Roxy Revue Bar

1 Jakes Gerwel Drive, Goodwood, Cape Town, 7460, Western Cape +27 (0)21 505 7777 banquetinggw@suninternational.com www.suninternational.com/grandwest

KWAZULU-NATAL

Make long-lasting memories in diverse KZN

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FOR THE CULTURE

HISTORY IN THE MAKING

Home to nearly 600 000 people, Durban is South Africa’s densest city by population and is run by eThekwini Metropolitan Municipality, which was formed in 1994. The Durban ICC is one of South Africa’s most popular venues and often plays host to major international events.

Blessed with a warm ocean, KwaZuluNatal’s beaches are a favourite holiday venue for South Africans. Ballito, Margate and uMhlanga are the busiest, with destinations such as uShaka Marine World among the most frequented attractions.

From sea to safari, KZN is one of the most naturally biodiverse regions in South Africa. The Hluhluwe-Imfolozi Park Nature Reserve, a protected area, is home to the big five while the iSimangaliso Wetland Park houses beaches, coral reefs, dunes and swamp forests.

Not only is KZN naturally diverse but it is also culturally diverse. It has the largest Indian population outside of mainland India and is home to the Zulu people, making it a prime example of South Africa’s rainbow nation.

For a flashback to the past, the King Shaka Heritage Route has many Shaka-related attractions along the way. Visit Shaka’s tombstone at KwaDukuza, or Observation Rock where Shaka surveyed his troops while they were training. The route and attractions can be visited at one’s own leisure.

THE CITY

SEA AND SAND

SAFARI

5

THE MEETINGS & EVENT PLANNER 2019 •

57

KZN

Umzamba Beach Meeting spaces 5 Max pax 900 Accommodation 396 rooms Situated along one of the most unspoilt beaches in Southern Africa, the Wild Coast Sun is a family-friendly resort that attracts visitors with its natural beauty and numerous activities.

LOCATION Less than a two-and-a-half-hour drive, along the South Coast, from Durban’s King Shaka International Airport, the resort sits on 750 hectares overlooking the Indian Ocean between the Mtamvuna and Mzamba rivers.

MEETING AND EVENT SPACES Plan your conference, function or team-building event with ease at Wild Coast Sun’s conference venues and facilities aided by highly skilled and dedicated staff.

The conference centre provides you with a variety of exceptional venues, supported by professional technicians and coordinators.

All conference rooms are equipped with wall-towall carpeting, air conditioning and independently controlled lights with dimming capabilities. Should your function require it, access to necessary sound and AV equipment can be made available.

With 12 venues, two preassembly areas, vast lawn areas and the 670-seater Tropical Nights Auditorium, you can be assured that your function will be expertly managed and catered for, with the level of service and experience you can expect from a Sun International resort.

ACCOMMODATION Relax in four-star beachfront hotel accommodation in Umzamba Beach at the Wild Coast Sun. Each of the 396 rooms and suites enjoy the tranquil views. Soak up the vista of the Indian Ocean from your sea-facing suite, or reclaim your inner calm looking out over the rolling greens of the golf resort from your garden-facing suite.

CATERING The banqueting department can arrange custom menus, catering and decor – all tailored to suit your budget – for events up to 900 guests.

Venues and capacities Room Name

Banquet Buffet

Banquet Served

Amadiba Ballroom (A&B)

500

600

-

900

800

460

500

-

Msikaba (1-4) Conference Venues

220

300

30

300

500

180

250

-

Mtamvuna

160

200

-

250

300

140

150

80

Mzamba

60

80

-

80

100

-

50

40

-

-

-

670

-

-

-

-

Topical Nights Auditorium

Boardroom

Cinema

Cocktail

Dance Buffet

Schoolroom

U-shape

Main Bizana Road, 5.2 km south of Port Edward, Eastern Cape +27 (0)39 305 9111 wcs.banqueting@suninternational.com www.suninternational.com/wild-coast-sun

58 • THE MEETINGS & EVENT PLANNER 2019

EZEMVELO KZN WILDLIFE CONFERENCE CENTRES

A CONVERGENCE OF BUSINESS AND ADVENTURE

Let Ideas Expand Beyond the Office We have the freshest of air, an abundance of wildlife, the best adventure tracks and trails, breathtaking sights and scenery, but most importantly, we have conference centres in these magnificent tranquil surroundings.

Didima Conference centre accommodates delegates from 120 classroom style, 60 U-shape style to 120 seated cinema style configuration. Ntshondwe Conference centre offers a cinema style seating arrangement for up to 140, a lecture style for 90 or a single U-shaped for 45 delegates. Ntshondwe’s two breakaway rooms offers a cinema style seating arrangement for 30, lecture style for 18 and single U-shape for 16 delegates. Both Conference facilities offer various accommodation options, are fully serviced and can comfortably be adapted from one-day events to multi-day workshops.

Ntshondwe Conference Centre & Wedding Venue: (034) 983 2540 Ithala Game Reserve

Didima Conference Centre & Wedding Venue: (036) 488 8000 Maloti-Drakensberg Park World Heritage Site Giant’s Castle Wedding Venue: (036) 353 3718 Maloti-Drakensberg Park World Heritage Site Hilltop Resort Wedding Venue: (035) 562 0848 Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Park

Make your big day perfect with unlimited privacy, breathtaking scenery, birdlife, wildlife, scenic trails, comfortable accommodation, delicious food and personalised service.

Central Reservations: 033 845 1000 w w w.kznwildlife.com

kzn

Champagne Sports Resort Central Drakensberg

Meeting spaces 16 Max pax 1 400 Accommodation 152 hotel rooms + 91 chalets Over the years, Champagne Sports Resort team has crafted offerings to create an award-winning resort, ideal for both work and play. Champagne Sports Resort has been developed into a truly unique destination that caters for every getaway need.

LOCATION Nestled in the picturesque Central Drakensberg, Champagne Sports Resort provides exceptional conferencing, leisure, timeshare, wellness and golfing offerings that cater for every getaway need – all set in spectacular natural surroundings.

MEETING AND EVENT SPACES VENUES AND CAPACITIES Room Name

U-shape

Buttress Sentinel Monks Cowl Summit Ondini Zunckels Turret Injasuti Ithaba Sterkhorn Amphlet Greys Pass Dragons Back Eastmans

200 160 90 84 48 60 48 24 45 18 42 18 18 18

Ships Prow Cathkin Arms Bar Extension

18 48

Double Schoolroom Herringbone Cinema Banquet Cocktail U-shape -

140 140 65 -

1 200 720 350 300 100 140 90 45 70 30 78 20 20 20 20 60

-

200 -

130 -

1 400 1 000 500 435 200 200 130 60 110 50 105 20 20 20

950 660 300 260

-

-

-

120 80 50 60 30

120

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

20 125

-

-

-

-

-

-

Champagne Sports Resort has its own Conference and Exhibition Centre with a floor space of 1 200 m2 and seating for up to 1 400 delegates, banqueting for 950 guests at round tables, as well as four new boardrooms.

Other venues include the Sentinel Room, which seats up to 1 000 delegates; the Monks Cowl Centre, seating up to 550 delegates; the Summit Room, seating up to 400 delegates; and the more intimate venues suitable for between 20 to 150 delegates. State-of-the-art conferencing equipment, internet access and a convenient business centre complete the package.

-

ACCOMMODATION The resort offers a variety of superb, fully serviced accommodation. The 152 hotel bedrooms are made up of double/twin rooms, family rooms and various suites, all with well-appointed bedrooms and either mountain or garden views. A further 91 chalets on the estate are used for hotel accommodation, subject to availability.

The hotel has wheelchair access throughout and all bedrooms are linked to the main hotel buildings by way of thatch-covered walkways.

CATERING Champagne Sports Resort has an extended dining room and expanded buffet area, which comfortably feeds up to 700 guests with little queuing, complemented by an outstanding food offering.

THINGS TO DO Champagne Sports Resort’s Wellness Centre features an upmarket spa, a gym that has been upgraded with new equipment and a training programme. The spa has five treatment rooms, comfortable change rooms and a relaxing rest area with cane loungers looking up at the Champagne and Cathkin peaks. Champagne Sports Resort’s 18-hole championship golf course has been rated as South Africa’s most beautiful golf course in recent years, with the clubhouse rated among the top five 19th holes in South Africa.

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1397 Winterton Road, R600 Central Berg, Cathkin Valley +27 (0)36 468 8000 conferences@champagnesportsresort.com www.champagnesportsresort.com

ChampagneSportsResort

60 • THE MEETINGS & EVENT PLANNER 2019

@champagnesports

@champagnesportsresort

KZN

uMhlanga Meeting spaces 1 Max pax 800 Accommodation 154 rooms Set in the lush, green hills of KwaZulu-Natal, with picturesque views of the Indian Ocean, Sibaya invites guests in with a royal welcome and graces them with the rejuvenating power of the African sun.

LOCATION Located just a short drive away from King Shaka International Airport, Sibaya makes a modern statement with its unique Zulu-inspired architecture – a contemporary interpretation of African tribal designs based on traditional Zulu kraal imagery.

MEETING AND EVENT SPACES Take your event from special to unforgettable at the Sibaya Sun Park. This facility offers unmatched flexibility, variety and cost-effectiveness. The Sun Park is a permanent, flexible structure built around a sophisticated grid that provides all the amenities required for events, including electricity, plumbing and Wi-Fi. The infrastructure can be transformed into any configuration with endless customisations to suit

all event types, from lifestyle exhibitions to music festivals, launches and gala dinners. With extensive experience and a keen eye on your budget, the coordination team is sure to create an unforgettable event for you at this unique venue, which will help bring your brand to life.

ACCOMMODATION With ocean views from luxurious rooms, Sibaya possesses the ability to make you forget your troubles and encourages you to live in the moment. The resort is home to the threestar Sibaya Lodge and the luxury Royal Sibaya Hotel, each offering the highest level of service, with genuine African hospitality aimed at exceeding your expectations.

CATERING Sibaya is home to some of the very best restaurants in Durban, with every palate and taste sensation covered.

Whether you’re a devoted foodie or just on the hunt for a quick bite to eat, you’ll find exactly what you’re looking for.

Venues and capacities Room Name Sun Park

Banquet Buffet

Banquet Served

Boardroom

Cinema

Cocktails

Dance Buffet

Dance Served

Schoolroom

U-shape

800

800

-

1 800

1 000

800

800

1 000

-

Sibaya Drive, uMhlanga Rocks, 4320 KwaZulu-Natal sibayabanqueting@suninternational.com www.suninternational.com/sibaya

61 • THE MEETINGS & EVENT PLANNER 2019

THE MEETINGS & EVENT PLANNER 2019 •

61

NORTH WEST

Meet, work and play somewhere between the north and west

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The North West, or Great North as it was previously known, is rich in mineral wealth and has the world’s largest platinum reserves – accounting for 80% of the metal’s global supply. It is also where a quarter of all gold in South Africa is mined.

During the 1980s and early 1990s, Sun City was the only place within driving distance from Johannesburg and Pretoria where it was legal to gamble. Although gambling has been legalised nationally, Sun City remains a popular attraction for both business and pleasure to this day.

From the Pilanesberg National Park and Game Reserve to Ivory Tree Lodge, the North West offers superb game viewing opportunities.

Situated between the Kalahari and the Lowveld eco-habitats, the area offers a wide variety of accommodation to suit any and all needs.

The North West is home to some of the world’s oldest rocks evident in the Magaliesberg mountain range and the Makhonjwa Mountains in Barberton, only superseded by rock fragments found in Australia.

The North West has an interesting topography, lending itself to its mineral wealth.

Many of the platinum mines are partnerships with the Royal Bafokeng Nation, which owns a great deal of the land in the North West province and has done so for centuries. The town of Moruleng, home to the Bakgatla people who have been in the area as long, has a cultural centre where one can experience centuriesold traditions.

WORLD RICHES

THE SUNNIEST CITY

62 • THE MEETINGS & EVENT PLANNER 2019

GAME VIEWING

GEOHISTORICAL

LAND BEFORE TIME

Meeting spaces 36 Max pax 6 000 Accommodation 1 310 rooms

VENUES AND CAPACITIES Room Name Banquet Buffet Banquet Served Baratu Chawa Inzer Juveni Kings Ballroom 1 250 280 Kings Ballroom 1&2 700 750 Kings Ballroom 2 380 450 Konza Kratan Linus Linus & Juveni Lupata Manica Monomotapa (Exec Boardroom) Multipurpose 250 250 Venue Mur Rajun Samo Seers Court 1 90 100 Seers Court 1&2 180 200 Seers Court 2 90 100 Sena Shandru Shukan Sofala The Sunpark 900 1 100 The Superbowl 1 100 1 200 Wariors Hall 1 120 140 Wariors Hall 3 150 170 Wariors Hall 1&2 240 270 Wariors Hall 1&2&3 410 460 Wariors Hall 2 110 130 Wariors Hall 2&3 270 300 Zebe Zebe & Sena Zimbas -

Boardroom 12 16 12 64 96 64 16 24 12 20 24 24

Cinema Cocktail Dance Buffet Dance Served Schoolroom (x3) Schoolroom (x2) 35 -24 16 30 21 14 56 32 18 12 494 450 220 250 273 182 1 200 1 200 650 700 858 572 836 750 350 380 468 312 36 -24 16 154 63 42 32 18 12 72 42 28 140 63 42 90 42 28

U-shape 12 12 8 60 180 68 12 26 8 20 26 24

18

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

500

250

250

-

-

-

16 12 16 36 56 36 12 16 16 44 44 60 96 44 68 12 24 16

64 32 56 162 345 162 36 35 72 54 1 250 6 000 180 264 420 840 156 510 36 99 36

150 300 150 1 500 3 000 230 300 475 800 200 500 -

60 150 60 850 1 000 90 120 210 380 80 230 -

90 180 90 900 1 100 120 150 240 410 110 270 -

30 18 30 84 198 84 18 15 24 1 000 1 200 96 120 240 480 72 288 18 48 12

20 12 20 56 132 56 12 10 16 64 80 160 320 48 192 12 32 8

16 8 16 32 48 32 12 16 16 36 36 52 84 36 56 12 24 16

Nestled in the rolling hills of the Pilanesberg, one of South Africa’s most scenic locations, the Sun City resort is a world unto itself and has earned its reputation.

LOCATION Located on the border of the Pilanesberg National Game Park, just a two-hour drive from Johannesburg, or a short 40-minute flight, Sun City is the perfect getaway destination.

MEETING AND EVENT SPACES Sun City resort is home to some of South Africa’s top conference venues and facilities. Offering organisers an abundance of elegant conference venues, meeting rooms, accommodation, and entertainment options, Sun City’s facilities leave you spoilt for choice. There is complimentary Wi-Fi found throughout the conference area, no matter where you are. Sun City’s conference venues offer guests everything they need and more, all situated in one resort.

ACCOMMODATION No other resort has as wide a variety of accommodation option as Sun City. If you are looking for unsurpassed, five-star luxury, something to suit the whole family, or your own comfortable unit away from the crowds, this resort has everything you need. Each of the four hotels has its own unique style, character and attractions. People with special needs are also catered for.

CATERING Sun City offers catering facilities for any size function upon request, and there are an unlimited number of menu options for every palate.

R556, Rustenburg, North West +27 (0)14 557 1000 scenq@suninternational.com www.suninternational.com/sun-city

THE MEETINGS & EVENT PLANNER 2019 •

63

NORTH WEST

Rustenburg

NORTH WEST

Hammanskraal Meeting spaces 6 Max pax 300 Accommodation 94 rooms Famous for its candyfloss pink exterior, the Carousel is the perfect setting for a midweek break, casual weekend trip or spur-of-the-moment getaway.

LOCATION The Carousel Casino is conveniently located on the border of the North West province near Johannesburg, Pretoria and Polokwane. The Carousel offers a fun and jaunty entertainment environment, with the added advantage of top-quality accommodation and natural surroundings.

MEETING AND EVENT SPACES The Carousel conference facilities cater to all your business needs, offering business travellers from Gauteng and Polokwane the best North West conference venues. These comprehensive venues include facilities to host everything from 10 boardroom

guests to 1 100 conference delegates. Other uses for the conference venues include training, weddings, birthdays, anniversaries, gala dinners, year-end functions and team-building events.

ACCOMMODATION Whether you’re escaping the big city for a weekend away or planning an impromptu midweek trip, the Carousel Hotel offers the best accommodation near Pretoria. Each of the 57 fully air-conditioned rooms and 37 self-catering units are tastefully decorated and furnished to ensure maximum comfort.

+27 (0)11 233 2600 subs@3smedia.co.za 3smags.co.za

CATERING The Carousel offers diners a variety of restaurants.

From buffet-style dining to great steaks and speciality coffees, the Carousel has something to satisfy any craving.

theplanner.guru is a one-stop platform for finding venues and suppliers.

It’s where you can read the hottest industry tips and trends as well as source event planning tools and gain insight from valuable information in the MICE Hub. Plan your event by using the platform’s event boards and keep up-to-date with the daily newsletters. Use these resources to take your events from great to flawless.

Packed with advice, handy tips, tools, checklists and event planning insight from leading industry experts and combined with the comprehensive listings, The Meetings & Event Planner is essential if you’re organising any type of event. Published annually.

Venues AND capacities Room Name Blue Room Hotel Board Room Masakhane Pavilion Acacia Place Lapa The Nickelodeon

Banquet 100 50 50 50 500

Boardroom 18 20 -

Cinema 50 100 100 1 100

Cocktail 160 50 80 100 1 000

Schoolroom 500

U-shape 80 -

Old Warmbaths Road, Hammanskraal, Pretoria, 0407 North West +27 (0)12 718 7777 carousel.banqueting@suninternational.com www.suninternational.com/carousel

64 • THE MEETINGS & EVENT PLANNER 2019

TT H H EE

EI XN HC I EB NI T T II OV NE

Looking for new and exciting destinations? The Incentive Planner is jampacked with fresh ideas and top tips to turn any incentive trip into a memorable experience.

Out in March and September with Meetings.

The Exhibition Planner is an essential tool for exhibitors. Information is packaged in an easily digestible format addressing the entire process of planning and arranging a show stand, what to do pre-show, during and post-show. Published annually.

The Planner

This alternative monthly publication investigates new trends, ideas and strategies relevant to the meetings and events industry to keep you ahead of the planner pack. Meetings provides a platform for branding and promoting venues and service providers to the heart of the South African conferencing and event industries.

@theplannerguru

3S Media gives YOU the competitive edge as a MICE planner

www.theplanner.guru @theplannerguru

Hunters Rest

Rustenburg

Meeting spaces 15 Max pax 500 Accommodation 98 rooms Neatly tucked away between the Magalies Mountains is the Protea Hotel

by Marriott Hunters Rest – a picturesque subtropical country resort. A glorious visit for guests who are nature lovers or sports/ active outdoor enthusiasts, this Rustenburg resort ensures a memorable experience.

LOCATION

The Protea Hotel by Marriott Hunters Rest in Rustenburg, North West, is nestled at the foot of the Magaliesberg mountains.

Located 70 minutes from Lanseria International Airport and 90 minutes from O.R. Tambo International Airport, the location is the perfect distance from Johannesburg and Pretoria for a breakaway or meeting in the North West province.

maximum guest comfort, each guest room has a patio overlooking the picturesque Magaliesberg mountains.

CATERING

Hunter’s Rest offers full catering services and special dietary requirements are catered for by local outsourced suppliers.

TEAM BUILDING

With an incredible 9-hole golf course, puttputt course, mini soccer field, volleyball court, spa and wellness centre, tennis courts, and 10-station kitchen for culinary team building, the hotel offers a number of unique team-building experiences.

MEETING AND EVENT SPACES

Hunter’s Rest boasts 15 event venues: from intimate boardrooms for eight guests, to a main venue for up to between 300 (schoolroom style) and 450 (cinema style) guests, as well as an open-air boma for 500 banqueting guests and various smaller break-away rooms – there’s something for every occasion.

ACCOMMODATION

With 98 stunning bedrooms in different room categories appointed to ensure

Venues and capacities Room Name

Cinema

Classroom

Banquet

Cocktail

U-shape

Orchards 1

100

60

50

100

30

Orchards 2

140

80

70

140

50

Orchards 3

100

60

50

100

30

Combined Orchards Suite

400

250

20

400

80

Nathan

60

50

50

60

30

Grove

150

80

70

150

50

Chapel

120

60

50

120

40

Alice Boardroom

-

-

-

-

10

Avi Boardroom

-

-

-

-

10

Clubhouse 1 Upstairs

120

80

60

120

50

Clubhouse 2 Downstairs

40

30

-

-

30

Clubhouse 3 Downstairs

40

30

-

-

30

Clubhouse 4 Downstairs

30

20

-

-

20

+27 (0)14 537 8300 events@huntersresthotel.co.za R24, Rustenburg mariott.com/ntypr

NORTH WEST

Protea Hotel by Marriott

Find us where the sun rises

MPUMALANGA

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Home to the iconic Kruger National Park, Mpumalanga is not only one of South Africa’s most biodiverse provinces but it also offers wildly exciting meetings opportunities.

Meaning “where the sun rises” in IsiZulu, Mpumalanga has eventing opportunities as varied as the province itself.

Mbombela, formerly known as Nelspruit, provides all the amenities one could possibly need for a meeting, with people from Swaziland and Mozambique often travelling to the city for various items they are unable to get locally.

White River, Sabie, Graskop, Hazyview, Malelane, Pilgrim’s Rest, Lydenburg and Badplaas are all famed for being supremely picturesque and offer an interesting array of outdoor activities as well as cultural attractions.

The Kruger National Park is a massive area that covers parts of both the Limpopo and Mpumalanga provinces, across nearly two million hectares. The Kruger National Park is world renowned and offers a wildlife experience ranked as one of the best in Africa.

Meaning “happy river” in Dutch, the Blyde River Canyon is the longest and deepest green canyon in the world due to the dense foliage that covers it. Stretching about 25 km, at an average depth of 750 m, this is one of Mpumalanga’s most beautiful assets, attracting thousands of visitors each year.

MEETING OPPORTUNITIES

THE CITY

66 • THE MEETINGS & EVENT PLANNER 2019

THE COUNTRY

THE PARK

HAPPY RIVER

MPUMALAnGA

Emnotweni Hotel and Casino Complex Mbombela (Nelspruit) Meeting spaces 8 Max pax 770 Accommodation 224 rooms EMNOTWENI is a premier entertainment destination and its appeal lies in the wide range of attractions, sweeping views of the Lowveld, and exciting options for groups.

LOCATION Located in the heart of Riverside Park, the complex is adjacent to one of the largest shopping destinations in Mbombela (Nelspruit) and is accessible from the R40 towards White River.

MEETING AND EVENT SPACES Emnotweni is able to stage a myriad of worldclass events, conferences, shows, festivals and exhibitions.

• The largest venue, The Arena, located in the casino complex, is 695 m2 in size, and can be divided into two smaller rooms. The Arena can host up to 770 guests for cocktail functions and cinema style.

• The Cycad rooms at Southern Sun Emnotweni hotel can easily be converted to an intimate banqueting venue, or divided for smaller groups • The hotel offers delegates a magnificent view of the tranquil gardens of the Lowveld Botanical Gardens.

• StayEasy Emnotweni hotel offers a room for meetings and gatherings of up to 20 persons.

ACCOMMODATION Southern Sun Emnotweni and StayEasy Emnotweni provide beautifully appointed accommodation with a range of room types for groups.

CATERING An excellent choice of banqueting menus for private functions as well as a choice of restaurants are available across the complex.

Venues and capacities Room Name Cycad 1

Cinema 30

Schoolroom 18

Banquet 30

Cocktail 30

Cycad 2

30

18

30

30

Cycad 1 & 2 (D)

60

42

60

60

Arena 1 & 2

770

400

500

770

Arena 1

300

200

200

400

Arena 2

300

200

200

400

Government Boulevard, Riverside Park, Ext 1, Mbombela (Nelspruit) Tel: +27 (0)13 757 3000 emnotweni.reservations@tsogosun.com emnotweni.co.za

THE MEETINGS & EVENT PLANNER 2019 •

67

FREE STATE

Live it up in the Free State

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Bloemfontein, the capital city of the province and the judicial capital of South Africa, is home to approximately 520 000 residents. Offering every urban comfort imaginable, with several museums and cultural sites to visit, there is plenty to do in Bloemfontein.

The sleepy town of Clarens in the Free State is a world away from the hustle and bustle of any urban jungle. Known for its picturesque beauty, with the Maluti Mountains as its backdrop and its quaint shops, Clarens offers any art or antiquing fundi an exciting experience.

The Royal Natal National Park in the Drakensberg is famed for its arduous but scenic hiking trails. The notoriously difficult 5 km Amphitheatre trail can be found within the park, which is enclosed within a protected area.

The Free State has a rich culture and takes pride in upholding its traditions, some of which are centuries old. Spend time with the Basotho people and understand their way of life at the Basotho Cultural Village.

Nestled in the foothills of the Maluti Mountains lies the Golden Gate Highlands National Park. Here, you can abseil, take a game drive, swim during the warmer months, canoe, go for horseback rides, or take a nature walk.

A CITY AWAY

ARTS AND CRAFTS

68 • THE MEETINGS & EVENT PLANNER 2019

TAKE A HIKE

CULTURALLY SPEAKING

THE GOLDEN GATE

FREESTATE

Bloemfontein Meeting spaces 4 Max pax 250 Accommodation 80 rooms

Hailed as a bona fide hub of eclectic entertainment, where young ones and grownups alike will have an unforgettable time, Sun International Windmill is the home of family fun.

a cabaret night or a masquerade ball, or even a beautifully elegant wedding, Windmill can make your dream party, conference or function come to life.

ACCOMMODATION

LOCATION Conveniently located within Bloemfontein, Windmill Casino is a one-stop destination for you and your family. Whether you’re just passing through or checking in for a holiday, you’ll find everything you need for a fun day out or a relaxing weekend away at Windmill.

MEETING AND EVENT SPACES With four separate spaces, Windmill houses some of the very best conference venues in Bloemfontein. Perfect for small events to grand affairs, there’s a conference venue, meeting room or reception venue that’s perfect for your event. At Windmill, you can tailor-make your event without breaking the budget. Whether it’s

An elegantly decorated boutique hotel, the four-star Windmill Lodge offers you and your family comfortable holiday accommodation in Bloemfontein. With 80 rooms and suites situated close to Windmill Casino and Entertainment Complex, Windmill Lodge is ideal for stopovers and family getaways.

CATERING Home to some of the very best restaurants in Bloemfontein, Windmill Casino offers a variety of taste adventures to suit every palate and desire.

If you’re popping in for a quick bite to eat or keen on settling in for a fine feast, you’ll find what you’re looking for at Windmill Casino.

Venues AND capacities Room Name Diamonds Lil’s Eiffel & Versailles Rooms Lodge Boardroom Windmill A & B

Banquet Buffet -

Banquet Served 25 16 150

Boardroom -

Cinema 40 20 250

Cocktail 180 25 15 200

Dance Buffet -

Dance Served -

Schoolroom 30 16 170

U-shape 25 14 90

Corner Jan Pierewiet Avenue and N1 Highway Pellissier, 9332, Musgrave, Bloemfontein, Free State +27 (0)51 410 2000 banqueting.windmill@suninternational.com www.suninternational.com/windmill

THE MEETINGS & EVENT PLANNER 2019 •

69

EASTERN CAPE

Travel through the history of a proud region and its people

1

METROPOLITAN DREAM

2

ELEPHANTS AND MORE

3

4

5

The cities of Port Elizabeth and East London offer every amenity conceivable. Both major city centres are close to numerous cultural and sightseeing attractions as well as various natural hotspots – for a quick trip out of town and back again, the Eastern Cape is ideal.

The Addo Elephant National Park is one of 19 official parks in South Africa and is the third largest in the country. For horseriding, birdwatching and game viewing, this is one of South Africa’s most precious biodiverse areas and protects a massive range of fauna and flora.

The Eastern Cape is blessed with natural beauty and is home to several waterfalls – zipline across the Tsitsikamma Falls or stop in at the town of Port St Johns and visit the Magwa Falls. You can also enjoy a horseback experience if you visit the Bawa Falls.

From Jeffreys Bay, or J Bay as it is more commonly known among locals, to East London, the Eastern Cape is ranked very highly for its ultimate surf, with Nelson Mandela Bay playing host to a leg of the Billabong Pro surfing competition.

The Eastern Cape has a rich history, with resistance movements such as the African National Congress, the Pan Africanist Congress and the Black Consciousness Movement all being established in the province. There are many cultural sites one can visit to learn more.

70 • THE MEETINGS & EVENT PLANNER 2019

CHASING WATERFALLs

SURF’S UP

CULTURAL EXCURSION

EASTERN CAPE

Port Elizabeth Meeting spaces 5 Max pax 1 600 Accommodation 140 rooms With its turrets piercing the indigo Eastern Cape skyline, the Boardwalk is one of South Africa’s most sought-after business and holiday destinations. From its stunning beachfront location to its charming classical architecture, evocative of ageold Victorian grandeur, the Boardwalk is the ideal resort for locals and tourists alike.

LOCATION Located in Algoa Bay, along the coastal strip of the Nelson Mandela Bay, it’s only a few minutes away from Hobie Beach.

MEETING AND EVENT SPACES The Boardwalk is home to the International Convention Centre, the largest conference venue in Port Elizabeth. This multifunctional space is made up of separate conference and meeting rooms, which can be combined to host any size event.

The Business Centre is equipped with desktop computers with internet access, printing and fax facilities.

The Amphitheatre is also available for hire. It has hosted multiple live events and is an ideal location for your next corporate function.

ACCOMMODATION Voted one of the Top 25 Hotels in South Africa in the TripAdvisor 2015 Travellers’ Choice Awards, the Boardwalk offers five-star accommodation. All 140 sea-facing hotel rooms enjoy unrivalled views of the Indian Ocean. Situated close to the beach and Bayworld Oceanarium, the Boardwalk is the perfect holiday accommodation for families. And with its unmatched conference, meeting and convention centre facilities, it’s the ideal choice for corporate travellers looking for convenient Port Elizabeth accommodation.

CATERING The International Convention Centre has its own dedicated kitchen headed by a professional chef and offers in-house catering for events.

Venues and capacities Room Name Tsitsikama Ironwood Redwood Stinkwood Yellowwood 1 & 2

Banquet Buffet 800 -

Banquet Served 1 100 -

Boardroom

Cinema

Cocktail

15 15 15 10

1 600 30 30 30 -

1 300 30 30 30 -

Dance Buffet Dance Served 700 -

900 -

Schoolroom

U-shape

1 000 12 12 12 12

12 12 12 8

Beach Road, Summerstrand, Port Elizabeth, Eastern Cape, 6019 +27 (0)41 507 7777 conventions.boardwalk@suninternational.com www.suninternational.com/boardwalk

THE MEETINGS & EVENT PLANNER 2019 •

71

NORTHERN CAPE

Live off the land in the Northern Cape

1

DIAMOND DIN

2

NATURAL BOUNTY

3

4

5

Kimberley, the Northern Cape’s capital, was founded in the 1870s during the diamond rush. Its largest excavated mine, which was hand-dug and has left an impressively massive cavity known as the Big Hole, and the old town have been developed into historical attractions.

Home to the Augrabies Falls National Park and the Kgalagadi Transfrontier National Park, which South Africa shares with Botswana, the Northern Cape has a range of parks and reserves where visitors can completely surround themselves with the natural beauty offered by this arid region.

The Namaqualand area in the Northern Cape is famed for its annual spring show when the desert comes to life with colour. Fields of wild flowers transform the dusty and dry landscape of the Northern Cape into a spectrum of colours each year during the months of August and September.

With the province offering one of the clearest views of the stars, it was a no-brainer to set up the Square Kilometre Array (SKA) project in the Karoo area of the Northern Cape. The SKA is a global effort to build the world’s largest radio telescope and includes 10 member countries.

The Northern Cape is the largest province in South Africa but don’t let that stop you – both Kimberley and Upington have airports, which means flying in and out is an option for travelling to and from the vast area, with several national routes connecting it by road.

72 • THE MEETINGS & EVENT PLANNER 2019

FLOWER POWER

STARRY NIGHT

A VAST VISTA

NORTHERN CAPE

Kimberley Meeting spaces 3 Max pax 240 Accommodation 90 rooms

Recreating the energy and excitement of the historic diamond rush, the Flamingo offers a variety of entertainment and leisure activities in a unique setting. Named for the abundance of flamingos that make their home in the nearby Kamfers Dam, Flamingo is a destination that is synonymous with fun.

LOCATION Ideally situated adjacent to the Kimberley Golf Club, Flamingo is an exceptional leisure and entertainment facility.

MEETING AND EVENT SPACES Expect superior conference facilities with state-of-the-art equipment and excellent service from the professional banqueting and service teams.

The four-star rated conference facility offers a selection of superior conferencing and meeting venues in the modern and high-tech Flamingo Conference Centre.

ACCOMMODATION When looking for accommodation in Kimberley near the Flamingo Casino, the one-star Road Lodge hotel is ideally located. The perfect choice of Kimberley accommodation for business travellers, conference delegates or holidaymakers, the Kimberley Road Lodge offers 90 budget guest rooms, 24-hour service and convenience. The guest rooms are tastefully decorated and offer reasonable room rates, which remain constant whether for one, two or three persons sharing.

CATERING Flamingo is home to an excellent, family-friendly restaurant in Kimberley, which dishes up fantastic steakhouse fare and is one of the most frequented venues in the area.

Venues AND capacities Room Name Flamingo Main Hall Teal & Sandpiper Boardrooms

Banquet Served 180

Boardroom -

Cinema 240

-

10

-

N12 Phakamile Mabije Road, Kimberley, 8301, Northern Cape +27 (0)53 830 2600 marthinus.nortje@suninternational.com www.suninternational.com/flamingo

THE MEETINGS & EVENT PLANNER 2019 •

73

LIMPOPO 1

Be whisked away on an adventure in Limpopo

ESCAPE TO THE BUSH

2

CITY TO CITY

3

4

5

From the sprawling Kruger National Park to Bela-Bela and the rolling hills of the Waterberg area, Limpopo province is blessed with an abundance of indigenous vegetation and wildlife that has been protected and looked after.

Officially named as a city in 1992, Polokwane is the closest major city centre to South Africa’s neighbouring countries of Botswana, Mozambique, Swaziland and Zimbabwe, making it an ideal stop before leaving the country’s borders.

As part of its rich history, discover how the Voortrekkers founded the original town of Pietersburg. Visit the Bakone Malapa Northern Sotho Open-Air Museum to understand the lifestyle of the Bakone people or stop by the Hugh Exton Photographic Museum, which depicts the first five years of the town’s existence.

From a bird sanctuary acclaimed for its work in the protection of the rare Cape vulture to a world-famous forest that has the world’s largest concentration of indigenous cycad species, Limpopo is home to some great conservation efforts.

Look no further than Limpopo for an unparalleled hospitality experience.

With an abundance of hotels, game lodges and guest houses all offering conferencing amenities, one is spoilt for choice on where to meet and stay in the province.

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CULTURE VULTURE

CONSERVATION KING

HIDDEN GEMS

LIMPOPO

Polokwane

Meeting spaces 10 Max pax 600 Accommodation 60 rooms

Protea Hotel by Marriott

Polokwane Ranch Resort

Polokwane

Meeting spaces 13 Max pax 1 500 Accommodation 150 rooms LOCATION The Ranch Resort is 260 km north of Johannesburg on the N1 highway – a 2.5 hour drive. On-site fly-in facilities are available and Polokwane International Airport receives daily flights from O.R. Tambo International Airport.

Protea Hotel by Marriott Polokwane Ranch Resort is a stunning four-star graded establishment situated on a 1 000 ha nature conservancy, featuring 150 hotel guest bedrooms, 13 conference and event venues, Basil’s fine-dining restaurant, an air-strip, a 12-hole par-3 golf course, a tented camp, a high-performance centre and two multipurpose soccer fields, as well as a variety of bird and antelope species.

Venues AND capacities Room Name Day Lily

150

Schoolroom 120

Bacchus

150

120

Melsetter

Cinema

Banquet

100

100

MEETING AND EVENT SPACES There are 13 meeting and event venues at the Protea Hotel by Marriott Polokwane Ranch Resort, which include the Bushwillow Conference Room U-Shape for up to 600 pax and contemporary modern venues that may be used as breakaway or additional venues. All venues are equipped with 60 a backup generator, allowing for uninterrupted 60 conferencing, as well as business-grade Wi-Fi.

250

170

200

Safari

1 300

800

700

70 -

Makhulu

1 400

800

800

260

Merlin 1

50

30

20

20

Merlin 2

70

40

50

30

Georgian

70

50

60

40

Garden Room

60

40

50

30

Bushwillow

800

600

600

100

Rose Room

180

80

100

50

Clubhouse

-

-

100

-

Excalibur

-

-

24

-

Lapa

-

-

200

-

Ranch Hotel, Farm Hollandsdrift, Polokwane +27 (0)15 290 5000 reservations@theranch.co.za www.theranch.co.za

ACCOMMODATION Staying at the Ranch Resort is comfortable, with 150 bedrooms featuring suites, two bedroom selfcatering chalets, as well as family, superior, deluxe and standard room types.

TEAM BUILDING For a unique incentive experience, visit the Kolobe tented camp. In addition, there is a high ropes course, game drives, golf, and various indoor and outdoor spaces in which guests can relax available on-site.

The Ranch Resort Theranchresort

Discover an exotic getaway in the heart of South Africa’s Limpopo province. This exquisite, Moroccanstyled complex boasts an array of exciting experiences for all ages and a number of excellent eateries that suit the palates of all types of patrons.

LOCATION Conveniently located in Limpopo’s capital city, Polokwane, Meropa is within easy reach of the province’s best attractions.

ACCOMMODATION The newly opened Meropa Hotel in Polokwane invites guests to escape to a world of Moroccan-inspired grandeur and exotic delight. Designed to ensure superior comfort and convenience, Meropa Hotel is set to become one of the most highly rated hotels in Polokwane.

Comprised of 54 standard rooms and six suites, this is the perfect location for your next midweek conference or weekend getaway.

MEETING AND EVENT SPACES

CATERING

Meropa is a comprehensive conferencing facility for worldclass business and leisure events. Boasting a state-of-theart conference centre, along with a wide range of fully equipped venues, it is perfectly suited for any occasion.

Giving you a choice of fast food, fine dining or everything in-between, Meropa Casino and Entertainment World is home to some of the best restaurants in Polokwane.

Venues and capacities Room Name Meropa A+B Meropa A or B Meropa A1/A2 or B1/B2 Ndhumba Lugundhu/Mugubo Vele Jembe Tavern Meropa Gardens Jembe Gardens Cultural Village

Min 200 50 25 80 500 100 100

Banquet Cocktail Cinema Outdoor Events Schoolroom 400 500 600 400 150 250 300 200 60 100 150 80 10 10 20 30 30 20 25 100 200 100 1 500 3 000 2 000 4 000 200 250 100 500 200 300 500 -

U-shape 150 100 60 9 20 15 -

Plot 59, Sterkloop, Roodepoort Road, Polokwane, 0700, Limpopo +27 (0)15 290 5400 meropa.banqueting@suninternational.com www.suninternational.com/meropa THE MEETINGS & EVENT PLANNER 2019 •

75

INTERNATIONAL

Jet-set across borders and seas for blended incentives

1

2

There are numerous destinations outside South Africa’s borders ideal for a meeting with an incentive flair. From the Lebombo Mountains in Swaziland to the Maasai Mara in Kenya, there is no shortage of things to see and do in Africa.

As diverse as Africa may be, there are some attractions that can only be seen in one place in the world. For this kind of getaway, it means travelling beyond the borders of our continent but tour operators and travel agents can help you get there.

INTO AFRICA

IDYLLIC ESCAPES

76 • THE MEETINGS & EVENT PLANNER 2019

3

HISTORICALLY GLOBAL Fascinating insights into human history and pre-history are found across the world, so international travel is simply a must for anyone with historical interests.

Visit the Terracotta Army in China or see the monoliths of Stonehenge in England, and entrench yourself in man’s millennialong journey.

4

BROADEN YOUR HORIZONS See how the rest of the world lives, works and plays during your travels. Connect with new people and cultures, seeing first-hand how similar yet different we all are, regardless of where we live and what languages we speak.

5

TAKE AFRICA TO THE WORLD While exposing yourself to new cultures and ways of life, share your own experiences and perspectives with others. Get the people you meet excited about brand South Africa, and maybe you can help ensure that it’s their next destination!

INTERNATIONAL

Sun International Royal Swazi Spa

Swaziland

Meeting spaces 8 Max pax 600 Accommodation 351 rooms

LOCATION Located in Ezulwini Valley, a mere 15‐minute drive from Mbabane, the capital of Eswatini, the resort is approximately 4 to 4.5 hours from Johannesburg, 6 hours from Durban, and 3 hours from Nelspruit.

MEETING AND EVENTS SPACES The Royal Swazi Spa Convention Centre is a spacious facility with room for small and large groups, and its professional team of experts will help arrange an unforgettable conference or event for up to 600 people. The fully contained Business Centre offers secretarial services and is equipped with all the facilities you need to efficiently run your business affairs.

ACCOMMODATION The Royal Swazi Spa Valley is your best option when looking for Ezulwini Valley accommodation. Choose from luxury rooms situated at The Royal Swazi Spa. All the resort accommodation caters for a variety of requirements, from family holidays to travelling sports groups and conferences.

CATERING What would a journey to a kingdom be without a royal feast? The chefs at Royal Swazi are experts at transforming the freshest ingredients into mouthwatering cuisine catering for all dietary needs and preferences. The banqueting department can arrange custom menus, catering, decor and cake – all tailored to suit your budget for events up to 600 guests.

Venues and capacities Room Name

Cocktail

Banquet (buffet)

Banquet (served)

U-shaped

Cinema

Schoolroom

Auditorium

-

-

-

-

505

200

-

150 200 450 50 60 160

100 200 350 30 80 -

100 200 350 50 80 140

60 120 150 45 60 -

60 300 600 40 80 -

100 200 300 40 80 -

80 60 100 18 20 40 -

Banquet 1 Banquet 2 Banquet 1 & 2 Boardroom Emantini Libandla Gigi's

Boardroom

Sun International Royal Swazi royalswazi.hotel@suninternational.com Main Road Ezulwini, Lobamba H100, Swaziland www.suninternational.com/royal-swazi-spa/ www.suninternational.com

THE MEETINGS & EVENT PLANNER 2019 •

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INTERNATIONAL

Avani Victoria Falls Resort

Zambia

Meeting spaces 12 Max pax 400 Accommodation 212 rooms

Avani Victoria Falls Resort connects the wild side of travellers to Zambia’s wondrous landscapes and big game thrills. With the iconic Victoria Falls on its doorstep, the hotel offers adventurers a peaceful reprieve with its contemporary vibe and essential comforts.

The resort’s biggest drawcard is its impressive location, just a five-minute stroll from Victoria Falls, with all guests enjoying free, unlimited access to this famous attraction.

Enjoy the view of either the lush African bush or the welcoming pool and gardens at the heart of the resort.

LOCATION Avani Victoria Falls Resort is located off Mosi-oa-Tunya Road in Livingstone, Zambia.

MEETING AND EVENT SPACES Make an impact for your next conference, seminar or special event with picture-perfect views of the stunning Zambezi River and Victoria Falls as your backdrop. Personal service from the dedicated convention team will ensure that every event is a memorable, world-class experience.

Fully equipped with everything you need to take care of business, Avani Victoria Falls Resort’s creative spaces feature flexible layouts, set-ups and seating. The conference centre is awash with natural light and outfitted with the latest technology to ensure your success, whatever the event.

Avani Victoria Falls shares 12 of its meeting spaces with its neighbour, The Royal Livingstone Victoria Falls Zambia Hotel by Anantara

ACCOMMODATION Ease into comfort in one of Avani Victoria Falls Resort’s 212 colourful rooms and suites. Make yourself at home and sprawl out with extra comfort that’s perfect for families or check out the added comforts of Avani’s suites, which

78 • THE MEETINGS & EVENT PLANNER 2019

have all been decorated with traditional African charm and local Zambian flair. Each room features a complete range of essential amenities, contemporary design and Wi-Fi access.

Venues and capacities

CATERING

Luangwa Boardroom

With everything from indulgent African feasts to casual cafe snacks, you’ll find what you’re craving at Avani Victoria Falls Resort, where its selection of international flavours and local specialities will satisfy the most particular palate. Dining options include The Theatre of Food, The Falls Sports Café, the Poolside Grill and Bar or dinner at the Boma.

TEAM BUILDING Marvel at the majesty of Victoria Falls or explore a traditional Zambian village for a true slice of local life.

Unleash your wild side by going out on a game tour or just relax and enjoy the on-site facilities offered at Avani Victoria Falls Resort. Take a cable car ride over Batoka Gorge or have an exhilarating trip white-water rafting down the Zambezi River. Fly across the breathtaking Batoka Gorge in a helicopter, soar above Victoria Falls in a microlight aircraft, or swim in the famed Devil’s Pool.

Room Name Kafue Boardroom Lozi Meeting Space Tonga Meeting Space Lozi + Tonga Zebra Giraffe Elephant Lion Zebra + Giraffe Elephant + Lion Zebra + Giraffe + Elephant + Lion

U-shape

Schoolroom

Theatre

Boardroom

10

-

-

-

Cocktail Banquet -

-

-

-

-

10

-

-

29 42 42 29 -

20 20 40 45 40 40 45 171 171 342

20 20 40 60 165 165 60 225 225 450

30 40 40 30 -

68 168 168 68 216 216 432

20 20 40 40 140 140 40 200 200 400

Farm no. 393/M, Mosi-oa-Tunya Road, Livingstone, Zambia +260 213 321 122 victoriafalls@avanihotels.com https://www.avanihotels.com/en/victoria-falls AVANI Victoria Falls AvaniVicFalls avani_victoriafalls

Zambia

Meeting spaces 14 Max pax 450 Accommodation 173 rooms

Venues and capacities Room Name Kafue Boardroom Luangwa Boardroom Lozi Meeting Space Tonga Meeting Space Lozi + Tonga Zebra Giraffe Elephant Lion Zebra + Giraffe Elephant + Lion Zebra + Giraffe + Elephant + Lion Royal Livingstone Boardroom Stanley Boardroom

Bask in graceful safari style at the The Royal Livingstone Victoria Falls Zambia Hotel

by Anantara, situated at the base of one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World. The hotel offers sweeping views of the Zambezi River and savannah that stretch from every veranda as you relax in elegance.

U-shape

Schoolroom

Theatre

Boardroom

Cocktail

Banquet

10

-

-

-

-

-

LOCATION

-

-

-

10

-

-

29 42 42 29 -

20 20 40 45 40 40 45 171 171 342 -

20 20 40 60 165 165 60 225 225 450 -

30 40 40 30 12 10

68 168 168 68 216 216 432 -

20 20 40 40 140 140 40 200 200 400 -

The local name for the Victoria Falls, Mosi-oaTunya, means “smoke that thunders” and The Royal Livingstone Victoria Falls Zambia Hotel is located off Mosi-oa-Tunya Road in Livingstone, Zambia. The Royal Livingstone Hotel is located on the Zambian side of the Zambezi River in Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park, so guests enjoy direct and complimentary access to the Victoria Falls.

MEETING AND EVENT SPACES Business is a sophisticated pleasure at The Royal Livingstone Hotel. Combine inspiring corporate events with thrilling activities for your downtime. Let the staff at The Royal Livingstone take care of all your needs, whether it’s technical wizardry you require, or gourmet dining aboard a classic steam train travelling through the magnificent African wilderness.

The Royal Livingstone has 2 boardrooms and shares 12 of its meeting spaces with neighbouring Avani Victoria Falls Resort.

freely, offering unforgettable close-up encounters. Embrace the explorer life with indigenous design accents complemented by modern amenities and discreet butler service.

CATERING Celebrate the flavours of Europe and Africa at a number of locations around the hotel.

Dine aboard the Royal Livingstone Express, a restored steam locomotive, on a journey across the Victoria Falls or experience an authentic African feast by firelight. Partake in a traditional high tea or take in magnificent sunsets and cocktails overlooking the Zambezi River.

TEAM BUILDING Fly in a helicopter or microlight over the Victoria Falls or take a sunset cruise on the Zambezi River. Go white-water rafting or have a canoe safari... end it all off with a game drive in the Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park, or any of the other creative activities and excursions for conference and incentive groups, available both on and off the property.

ACCOMMODATION Experience the luxury of Anantara in an African paradise. Wildlife roam the hotel grounds

The Royal Livingstone Victoria Falls Zambia Hotel by Anantara RoyalLivHotel royallivingstone_anantara

Farm no. 393/M, Mosi-oa-Tunya Road, Livingstone, Zambia +260 213 321 122 reservations.africa@minorhotels.com

www.anantara.com/en/royal-livingstone

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INTERNATIONAL

The Royal Livingstone Victoria Falls Zambia Hotel by Anantara

INTERNATIONAL

Anantara Medjumbe Island Resort

Mozambique Accommodation 12 villas

Part of the protected Quirimbas Archipelago that stretches along Mozambique’s northern coastline, Medjumbe is a small private island. Here, the horizon is an endless swirl of white sands, turquoise lagoon and blue Indian Ocean.

A superlative island escape is now easily in reach with Anantara Medjumbe Island Resort’s Naturally Exclusive opportunity, offering all-inclusive luxury on a private island along Mozambique’s shores. The Anantara Medjumbe Naturally Exclusive opportunity costs $12,900 per night, for a minimum three-night booking, including accommodation for 24 guests in 12 private luxury villas, full board dining created by personal chefs, and a selection of non-alcoholic drinks, house wines, beers and spirits.

LOCATION Medjumbe is one of the Quirimbas Archipelago’s 32 islands, which run along the northern coast of Mozambique all the way up to the border with Tanzania.

ACCOMMODATION Live in the lap of castaway luxury. With only 12 villas on the island, enjoy the exclusivity of your private slice of paradise.

Thatched-roof simplicity meets vibrant African prints with views of the ocean feature from every angle. Spend

sunny days on your deck taking in the changing hues of the ocean. Cool off in your plunge pool or in the shade of the cabana. Bathe with a view, soaking in a tub or rinsing under your garden shower.

CATERING Savour the tastes of island life, away from it all. World flavours, local specialities and fresh seafood are served alongside extraordinary ocean views. Head over to the Jahazi restaurant for a setting of rustic elegance surrounded by wall-to-wall views. Dine on the catch of the day brought in by local dhow fishermen, and sample the spices and aromas of Mozambique – a rich blend of indigenous, Arab and Portuguese influences.

Drink in the view at the Bahari Lounge Bar, where it all starts with the flow of a pristine ocean view, framed by iconic island architecture. Add tropical flavours and truly unforgettable refreshment will be yours.

ACTIVITIES Your private island getaway promises a wealth of adventure, on shore, at sea, or below the ocean’s surface.

Stroll white sands to the island’s deserted lighthouse, keeping an eye out for sea turtle hatchlings. Explore some of the most beautiful reefs on earth, all within easy reach of the resort.

Medjumbe Island, Quirimbas Archipelago, Cabo Delgado Province, Mozambique +258 86 610 1477 +27 (0)10 003 8979 medjumbe@anantara.com reservations.africa@minorhotels.com www.anantara.com/en/medjumbe-island Anantara Medjumbe Island Resort medjumbe anantara_medjumbe

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INTERNATIONAL

Anantara Bazaruto Island Resort

Mozambique

Venues and capacities Room Name Bazaruto Conference Room

Theatre 60

Schoolroom 60

U-shape 30

Boardroom 40

Banquet 60

Cocktail 50

H-square 40

Meeting spaces 1 Max pax 60 Accommodation 44 rooms Anantara Bazaruto Island Resort brings authentic luxury to an African island hideaway. An escapist’s dream, this is a place to lose oneself in total seclusion, dazzling tropical beauty and protected ocean life. Signature experiences immerse travellers in their remote and captivating charms, embellished by world-class pleasures.

CATERING The resort’s cuisine is inspired by its surroundings, with locally sourced seafood and indigenous herbs and spices from the resort garden. Explore the complex layered flavours of Mozambique, Portugal and beyond with the resort’s three restaurants that cater for tastes from around the world.

LOCATION Anantara Bazaruto Island Resort is located 30 km off the east coast of Mozambique, in an island archipelago of surreal beauty.

TEAM BUILDING There are a host of activities to explore on the island.

Delve beneath the ocean’s surface, or sail into the sunset. Go horseback riding or on a thrilling dune boarding trip. Get wet snorkelling or diving as you explore Bazaruto’s underwater paradise; or for something with a more homely feel, take a Spice Spoons cooking class.

MEETING AND EVENT SPACES Corporate retreats can enjoy productive meetings in the conference room, with state-of-the-art equipment and flexible seating for up to 60 guests, against the striking backdrop of Bazaruto.

ACCOMMODATION Choose your setting, from beachfront rooms to rooms that offer spectacular views of the bay. Each room option comes standard with free Wi-Fi.

Ilha do Bazaruto, Inhambane, Mozambique +258 84 304 6670 / +27 (0)10 003 8979 bazaruto@anantara.com reservations.africa@minorhotels.com www.anantara.com/en/bazaruto-island Anantara Bazaruto Island Resort AnantaraBaz anantara_bazaruto THE MEETINGS & EVENT PLANNER 2019 •

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INTERNATIONAL

Avani Pemba Beach

Mozambique

Meeting spaces 3 Max pax 160 Accommodation 168 rooms

Venues and capacities Room Name

U-shape

Theatre

Schoolroom

Boardroom

Cabo Delgado

60

160

120

80

Mussoma

25

50

40

30

-

-

-

12

Mueda Avani Pemba Beach in Mozambique is situated in the country’s far northern province of Cabo Delgado, in the ancient port town of Pemba. With its striking architecture blending African and Arabian design, the hotel is the perfect choice for business travellers or for an easy beach escape.

MEETING AND EVENT SPACES

CATERING

Avani Pemba Beach has become a sought-after conference and incentive destination with its functional 12-seater executive boardroom and main conference room. After a day’s meetings, delegates can board a sunset boat cruise that drifts across Pemba Harbour.

The hotel’s restaurants and bars offer an extensive array of cuisines to satisfy both business and leisure guests. The Niassa Bar invites guests to chat over drinks.

The flagship restaurant, Clube Naval, is located on the beach adjacent to the yacht marina and offers a selection of international cuisine.

LOCATION

ACCOMMODATION

Pemba is the gateway to the Quirimbas Archipelago and Niassa Reserve. The Quirimbas Archipelago is Mozambique’s best kept secret – a 250 km long string of tropical islands surrounded by dazzling coral reefs and a wealth of untouched marine life.

Take time out on your terrace or balcony. Admire the garden lawns or get lost in the sounds of the Indian Ocean. With 168 rooms and 9 different room types, from one to three bedrooms, Avani Pemba Beach has something for everyone.

TEAM BUILDING Avani Pemba Beach offers a host of water sports, from snorkelling to diving and other non-motorised water activities, in addition to tours of the city.

Avenida da Marginal 5470, Pemba, Cabo Delgado, Mozambique +258 2722 1770 pemba@avanihotels.com reservations.africa@minorhotels.com www.avanihotels.com/en/pemba Avani Pemba Beach

82 • THE MEETINGS & EVENT PLANNER 2019

INTERNATIONAL

Avani Lesotho Hotel & Casino

Lesotho Meeting spaces 8 Max pax 240 Accommodation 158 rooms

Venues and capacities Room Name Khanya Boardroom Khotla Room Pitso 1+2 Pitso 1 Pitso 2 Senqu Room Khotla Senqu & Khotla

Cinema

U-shape

Boardroom

Banquet

30 300 200 100 30 -

20 200 90 60 20 20 30

12 30 240 40 100 30 30 60

30 240 100 100 30 30 60

Avani Lesotho Hotel & Casino is situated on a hillside and is a great place to stay because of the stylish guest rooms and beautiful views of the city and the surrounding mountains. The hotel is equipped with premium comforts and facilities.

From intimate meetings to large-scale affairs, Avani Lesotho Hotel & Casino has you covered with workspaces that are functional and flexible.

LOCATION Ideally located in the capital city of Lesotho, Maseru, Avani Lesotho Hotel & Casino is an approximately 25-minute drive from Moshoeshoe I International Airport. Daily flights from Cape Town via Johannesburg are also available, or one can also catch the regular bus service from Johannesburg.

MEETING AND EVENT SPACES Meet with ease at Avani Lesotho Hotel & Casino. Here, you can find everything you need to hold an intimate meeting or a largescale conference. Enjoy the ease of fuss-free

planning and execution by Avani Lesotho Hotel & Casino’s meeting venues, which offer a great spot to take care of work and get things done.

ACCOMMODATION Rise and shine in Avani Lesotho Hotel & Casino’s 158 rooms and suites. In these stunning rooms, watch dawn break over Maseru from your private balcony, found attached to every room. Marvel at the wideopen space and fall into bed at a hotel that offers genuine comfort and peace. You will find it hard not to make yourself at home.

CATERING Avani Lesotho Hotel & Casino’s restaurants have something for every whim and taste.

The restaurants Nala Café, Ying Tao Grill, Leifo Bar and Coffee Shop, and Letamong Pool Bar offer a wide range of tasty nibbles, African delights, refreshing sips, cocktails and wonderful sweets. Dine where your heart desires, whether relaxing by the fireplace or enjoying in-room.

Hilton Road, Maseru, Lesotho +266 2224 3000 lesotho@avanihotels.com reservations.africa@minorhotels.com www.avanihotels.com/en/lesotho Avani Lesotho Hotel & Casino

THE MEETINGS & EVENT PLANNER 2019 •

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INTERNATIONAL

Avani Windhoek Hotel & Casino

Namibia

Meeting spaces 8 Max pax 140 Accommodation 173 rooms Stay in the heart of Namibia’s capital city with access to all the action, culture and wildlife; perfect for business or pleasure. Avani Windhoek Hotel & Casino makes it easy to pursue both business and pleasure. Avani Windhoek Hotel & Casino has undergone a refurbishment, the hotel now has a grand entrance and Porte Cochere to accommodate passenger vehicles and busses for self-drive guests and tour groups. The new lobby at Avani Windhoek Hotel & Casino also features Pantry at Avani, as well as uplifted guest and business facilities.

LOCATION Situated in Windhoek CBD in the Gustav Voigts Centre, Avani Windhoek Hotel & Casino is a 35-minute drive from Hosea Kutako International Airport and within walking distance of famous attractions.

MEETING AND EVENT SPACES For inspiring city views, Avani Windhoek Hotel &

Casino offers eight meeting rooms with bright, natural light. Spaces are equipped for intimate gatherings or blowout affairs.

ACCOMMODATION Avani Windhoek Hotel & Casino’s room rates are ideally structured for all budgets. The hotel offers a total of 173 rooms, ranging from the standard Avani Room right through the ultra-exclusive Avani Presidential Suite. Airport transfers are available through the hotel’s range of services, with on-site amenities including a casino and business centre.

CATERING You are spoilt for gastronomical choice at Avani Windhoek Hotel & Casino. For a quick, light meal, the Pantry at Avani has ideal options. Dunes restaurant serves up a delectable international buffet along with Namibian delicacies, while the recently opened Stratos Rooftop Restaurant and Bar caters for a more cosmopolitan affair.

Venues and capacities Room Name Sossusvlei Combo

Cinema 140

Schoolroom 84

U-shape 96

Boardroom -

Banquet 114

Cocktail 140

Naukluft Marula

60 -

30 -

40 -

9

48 -

50 20

Camelthorn

30

-

20

-

-

Fever Tree

-

-

-

15

-

-

Wild Olive Mopane Blackthorn

20 20 -

-

15 15 -

15

-

15 15 -

-

-

-

-

-

-

Stratos - Roof Top

129 Independence Avenue, Gustav Voigts Centre, Windhoek, Namibia +264 61 280 0000 windhoek@avanihotels.com www.avanihotels.com/en/windhoek Avani Windhoek Hotel & Casino AvaniWindhoek avani_windhoek

84 • THE MEETINGS & EVENT PLANNER 2019

INTERNATIONAL

Avani Gaborone Resort & Casino

Botswana

Meeting spaces 10 Max pax 500 Accommodation 199 rooms Entrench yourself in all things Botswana at Avani Gaborone Resort & Casino, Botswana. With access to all the city action, nearby wildlife and plenty of fun both on- and off-site, Avani Gaborone Resort & Casino offers it all.

LOCATION

Within 15 minutes of the international airport and set in tranquil surroundings, Avani Gaborone Resort & Casino offers the perfect environment for your private functions. The resort’s central location means that guests have easy access to the city centre, while sport and entertainment options are also within easy reach.

MEETING AND EVENT SPACES

Avani Gaborone Resort & Casino’s conference facilities boast one large conference room that can be partitioned into three rooms, with five smaller breakaway rooms for smaller group meetings. If you want to astound, entertain and surprise your guests with an extravagant party, Avani’s on-site team can create the perfect atmosphere and ambience to leave a lasting impression.

ACCOMMODATION

Unwind in one of Avani Gaborone Resort & Casino’s 199 spacious rooms after a hard day’s work and enjoy the comfort of the hotel’s beautifully decorated rooms.

the restaurants, or unwinding in the elegant privacy of your room.

TEAM BUILDING

In addition to the indoor facilities, Avani Gaborone Resort & Casino boasts lush gardens that can cater for any type of outdoor event such as team-building exercises. Our Centre Court and Mopane Gardens offer the best venue for outdoor parties, with further options available by request.

Spa

In the heart of the Avani Gaborone Resort & Casino is a beautiful and rejuvenating spa that promises to melt away your troubles. Mosha spa offers a variety of spa treatments to satisfy any need. Relax and experience the calm and tranquil surroundings while you indulge in one of the many treatments.

4727 Chuma Drive, Gaborone, Botswana +267 361 6000 gaborone@avanihotels.com www.avanihotels.com/en/gaborone

CATERING

Venues and capacities Room Name

U-shape

Schoolroom

Theatre

Boardroom

Cocktail

H-square

Banquet

Conference 1

50

144

Conference 2

36

72

250

-

200

100

120

125

20

100

-

50

Conference 3

36

72

125

20

100

-

50

Conference 1+2+3

100

288

500

-

500

-

300

Seminar 1

-

-

-

12

-

-

-

Seminar 2

-

-

-

12

-

-

-

Seminar 3

-

-

10

10

-

-

-

Seminar 4

-

-

10

10

-

-

-

Seminar 3+4

25

24

50

26

30

-

30

Seminar 5

22

22

40

22

30

-

30

Avani Gaborone Resort & Casino’s five restaurants offer round-the-clock goodness, including tasty bites, refreshing tipples and international flavours that can be enjoyed as you are relaxing by the pool, networking in

Avani Gaborone Resort & Casino AVANI_Gaborone avani_gaborone

THE MEETINGS & EVENT PLANNER 2019 •

85

INTERNATIONAL

Avani Maseru

Maseru

Meeting spaces 8 Max pax 500 Accommodation 105 rooms

Venues and capacities Room Name

Location is everything! Situated in the heart of Maseru, along the Caledon River, Avani Maseru offers a large outdoor swimming pool, a thatched pool bar and restaurant.

Location This property is situated in a convenient location for first-time visitors to Lesotho, as it is neatly tucked in the middle of the city centre. Moshoeshoe I International Airport is a 30-minute drive from the hotel, with daily flights from Cape Town via Johannesburg.

MEETING AND EVENT SPACES At Avani Maseru, it’s easy to take care of business or host a special event in some of the best-equipped facilities in the city. Here, you will find multiple flexible spaces for meetings or events of any size, with five different venues to choose from – definitely leaving you spoilt for choice!

86 • THE MEETINGS & EVENT PLANNER 2019

Cinema

U-shape

Boardroom

Banquet

Pula 1

250

150

-

200

Pula 2

200

90

-

150

Pula 1&2 Naledi Room Molepe Room Qiloane Room Khutso Ithute

500 100 40 30 50

300 80 30 20 35

40 30 15 20 28

400 80 40 40

ACCOMMODATION Wake up in an African paradise. At Avani Maseru, watch the sun dance across the water at dawn or enjoy the twilight as it glistens on the lush forest at night.

Dine under shimmering stars and sink into a comfortable bed in one of the 105 rooms and suites.

Enjoy the comforts of Avani Maseru while spending some quality personal time, making peace of mind all yours.

CATERING The Avani Maseru team members know guests come to eat, drink and be merry. That’s why Avani Maseru’s restaurants have something for everyone. Feast on a wide range of delicious snacks, must-try meals and African delicacies.

Sip on a cocktail or dig into sweet treats. With three dining options to choose from, the only question is whether to order poolside or bedside.

12 Orpen Road, Maseru, Lesotho +266 2 224 3000 maseru@avanihotels.com reservations.africa@minorhotels.com www.avanihotels.com/en/maseru Avani Maseru

SERVICES Making magic behind the scenes and on the front line

SERVICES

Oyster King Food & Beverage The Oyster King is South Africa’s premier food theatre group, offering innovative culinary experiences to spice up events with something unique and unexpected. Let the Oyster King entertain your guests in the language everybody speaks, the language of food.

WHAT THEY DO The Oyster King is a culinary entertainment company. Clients can choose from the company’s nine culinary roving royals: the Oyster King, Biltong, Sushi, Caviar, Bubbly, Macaron, Cake Pop and Ice Lolly and Fortune Cookie Queens. Every one of these royals will entertain your guests while serving gourmet-inspired morsels.

WHY USE THEM Each brand activation is unique; a welltrained, personable promotional team serving oysters, sushi, caviar, macarons, bubbly, biltong, ice lollies, cake pops or fortune cookies to your guests makes its way around the crowd. All you do? Sit back and watch the beaming faces of your guests.

ACCOMPLISHMENTS AND ACCLAIM The concept first started with just the Oyster King, but nine culinary roving royals are available today. The company is also now able to deliver concepts based on different themes and as per the request of the client.

“Challenge us” As the industry grows and the needs change, so we find the opportunity to change our concepts. Challenge us to make your next event unique and unexpected!

100 Strand Street, Cape Town 0860 697 837 info@oysterking.co.za www.oysterking.co.za

88 • THE MEETINGS & EVENT PLANNER 2019

Events | Expo Stands | Road Shows | Conferences

Your Brand. Our Platform.

0861 WE ROCK (93 7625) | info@barmotion.co.za | www.barmotion.co.za

THE MEETINGS & EVENT PLANNER 2019 •

89

SERVICES

90 • THE MEETINGS & EVENT PLANNER 2019

Event Production and Management EPH Group offers a turnkey solution to all of your event requirements.

WHAT THEY DO Specialising in audiovisual, technical and end-to-end event management, EPH knows exactly how to make your event one to remember. EPH’s event services extend to design and conceptualisation, budgeting and event proposals and pitches, arranging of transport and accommodation, as well as catering, decor, entertainment, technical and on-site management.

WHY USE THEM EPH provides event solutions focused on not just technical capacities but also event management and hospitality. From the concept to the final song on the dance floor, the company is dedicated to delivering the best customer service and ensuring that the client’s event objectives are achieved at each and every occasion.

events industry in Southern Africa and its newest offering gives it the cutting edge.

SERVICES

EPH Group

ACCOMPLISHMENTS AND ACCLAIM EPH Group was responsible for the technical production of the SAFTAs, Metro FM Awards, ITSA Conference, FNB Starlight Pops, RMB Annual Conference, Inni Bos and the Proe’Toria Fest.

DIFFERENTIATOR EPH Group is a well-known and respected technical supplier to the live

10A View Street, Rietvalleirand, Pretoria +27 (0)12 345 5278 info@ephproductions.co.za www.ephproductions.co.za

EPH Group

eph_group

ephproductions

THE MEETINGS & EVENT PLANNER 2019 •

91

Trophies

Awards

Medals

A combination of your imagination and our experience For All Events

At Khoja Group, we take pride in our distinctive design skills, incomparable service, high quality, and of course, timely delivery

Contact details: +27(0)12 327 5885 www.khojagroup.net

info@khojagroup.net www.khojagroup.co.za

65 Von Weilligh Street, cnr Charlotte Maxeke Street, Pretoria West, South Africa

SERVICES

Chat’r Xperience

Exhibition and Eventing Specialists Chat’r Xperience specialises in the design and building of curated booths at exhibitions and retail stores.

WHAT THEY DO Chat’r Xperience designs, conceptualises and executes brand engagements and event management solutions for clients that are exciting and trendy, ensuring the right brand message reaches the visitor.

WHY USE THEM Chat’r Xperience offers a broad range of activities, specialties and topics focused around curated custom and innovative design and build systems. The company’s aim is to create chatter-inducing and engaging concepts for events, exhibitions and brand activations while supporting these with a project and event management solution. The Chat’r Xperience offering also extends to social media, e-marketing, decor and styling.

DID YOU KNOW?

Chat’r is a majority black-owned (51%) and 13.37% black-female-owned Level 2 BBBEE company

ACCOMPLISHMENTS AND ACCLAIM 2016 Indaba Platinum Stand Award 2011 Bronze Loerie 2012 Silver Loerie

DIFFERENTIATOR Chat’r Xperience is a one-stop-shop solution for all your exhibition and eventing needs.

Workshop 17, 138 West Street, Sandton +27 (0)83 415 2774 john@chatr.solutions www.chatr.solutions ChatrXperience chatrxp chatrxp

THE MEETINGS & EVENT PLANNER 2019 •

93

SERVICES

Parrot Products

Meeting, Presentation and Training Platforms Parrot Products puts a different spin on meetings, presentations and the delivery of training, providing fully interactive platforms that research has shown boost staff satisfaction and performance.

WHAT THEY DO Parrot Products offers the supply, installation, support of and training on products that include but are not limited to presentation and notice boards, data projectors and screens, interactive whiteboards, multi-touch LED panels and digital display screens. The company’s manufacturing and warehousing plant is situated in Cleveland, Johannesburg, along with fully stocked branches in Cape Town, Durban, Bloemfontein, Port Elizabeth, Namibia, Botswana and Zambia.

WHY USE them Parrot’s innovative multi-touch display technology allows for participants to view, control and collaborate on richer, more immersive presentations. The touchscreens provide easy navigation of documents, videos, presentations and websites, and the convenient sharing of documents and notes from the screen as well as multimedia files.

DIFFERENTIATOR Whether it’s for training, presentations or brainstorming ideas, Parrot Interactive Touch LED Panels offer the perfect solution for any business environment.

22 Cleveland Road, Cleveland, Johannesburg +27 (0)10 140 4900 sales@parrot.co.za www.parrot.co.za

parrotproductssa @ParrotProducts

94 • THE MEETINGS & EVENT PLANNER 2019

BOOK NOW For alL your Conferencing, Corporate, Entertainment and Event needs contact Mariska on 082 829 9679 email: info@primecircleband.com Website: www.primecircleband.com

SERVICES

Sorrento Events Event Management

Who we are Sorrento Events is a bespoke events management company specialising in weddings, corporate events and celebrations. The company has grown to gain international acclaim and has a footprint in Cape Town, London, Geneva and Paris.

WHAT WE DO Sorrento Events offers a full list of services that can be customised to suit every occasion.

The company provides a complete event management solution with services that include unique floral designs to complement its innovative decor concepts and enhance your branding solution.

Sorrento Events also provides furniture and tableware as well as draping, while its capacities in music and entertainment, photography, videography and professional styling will ensure your event is flawless. And logistics are a cinch with Sorrento’s seamless transportation network. In addition, the company will manage social media activity around your event.

WHY USE US Sorrento Events has experience and expertise spanning over 20 years. For the same reason you would only buy Italian shoes, you should only choose Sorrento Events.

SLOGAN “Creazione d’Eleganza!”

63 Buitenkant Street, Cape Town +27 (0)21 462 2000 events@sorrento.co.za www.sorrento.co.za sorrentoevents

sorrentoevents