The Meetings & Event Planner 2021

EDITION 6 2021 | www.theplanner.guru

THE MEETINGS & EVENT

EXPERIENCE THE

E XC E P T I O N A L Your ticket to creating impactful engagements

BEST PRACTICE | VENUES | DESTINATIONS | SERVICES R150.00 (incl. VAT)

meet in

now

#MAURITIUS

In this Covid-19 world, MICE events are inevitably going to be conducted in a very different way to the past. While the current use of technology to host meetings, workshops and events is a temporary measure, we all await the day when the love of travel will revive the MICE sector once again, as soon as lockdown restrictions and travel bans are lifted.

While recovery measures may differ from country to country, the Mauritius Tourism Promotion Authority (MTPA) assures the MICE industry that Mauritius is a Covid-19-safe destination, with the island observing the strictest protocols. It is regarded as having one of the world’s best responses to the pandemic, with strict quarantine measures and thorough health, sanitary and testing protocols that have been in place since the outbreak.

This – and so much more – is what makes Mauritius the ideal destination for MICE guests who want to experience the island’s amazing warmth, people and hospitality.

For more informa�on, visit www.mymauri�us.travel, www.mauri�usnow.com and www.ratherbeinmauri�us.co.za.

Mauri�us Tourism Promo�on Authority – SA Representa�ve: Janet de Kretser / Philippa Piguet Meropa Communica�ons Tel: +27 (0)83 773 8445 / +27 (0)11 506 7300 Email: mauri�us@meropa.co.za

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CONTENTS

ON THE COVER

25

Meet where it matters Sun City has taken extraordinary measures to provide the best offerings and experiences for its guests while keeping them safe and healthy.

BEST PRACTICE

12 14 16 18 20

Trending on 2021 With a rapidly shifting industry, The Meetings & Event Planner looks at how you can keep up.

End goal “What are our meeting and event objectives and how are we going to get there?” The Meetings & Event Planner understands why we need to answer these burning questions.

Stepping it up a notch The Meetings & Event Planner examines what training, education and certification is currently on offer across a range of competencies.

A moment in time We look at some of the remarkable moments during 2020 that bear testimony to the strength and resilience of the MICE industry.

Innovation station In a bid to be unique and outdo yourself by bringing together experiences that are more engaging than the last, do you have the right tools?

THE PLANNER IS GROWING ITS FOOTPRINT – CONNECT WITH US TODAY!

INDEXING 04 Advertisers A-Z 06 Venues by capacity 08 Venues by region 08 Services

CURIOSITY WILL CONQUER FEAR EVEN MORE THAN BRAVERY WILL.” James Stephens

23 77

VENUES From Limpopo to Livingstone, take a tour with The Meetings & Event Planner as we traverse across South Africa, and beyond, to explore the region’s top venues.

SERVICES Explore the evolved offerings of some of South Africa’s most popular MICE service providers.

ED’S LETTER

WE MADE IT THIS FAR!

Managing Editor Shanna Jacobsen (shanna@3smedia.co.za) Digital Editor Pippa Naudé Head of Design Beren Bauermeister Chief Sub-Editor Tristan Snijders Production & Client Liaison Manager

Antois-Leigh Nepgen Group Sales Manager Chilomia Van Wijk Bookkeeper Tonya Hebenton Distribution Manager Nomsa Masina Distribution Coordinator Asha Pursotham Advertising

Vanessa De Waal +27 (0)84 805 6752 | Vanessa.DeWaal@3smedia.co.za PUBLISHED BY

Publisher Jacques Breytenbach

3S Media 46 Milkyway Avenue, Frankenwald, 2090 PO Box 92026, Norwood 2117 Tel: +27 (0)11 233 2600 Fax: +27 (0)11 234 7274/5 www.3smedia.co.za

THE MEETINGS & EVENT PLANNER 2021 All rights reserved 2021 www.theplanner.guru SUBSCRIPTION R150 per annum (incl. VAT) subs@3smedia.co.za ISSN 978-0-620-68603-7 Printers Novus Print Montague Gardens 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

The ABC logo is a valued stamp of measurement and trust, providing accurate and comparable circulation figures that protect the way advertising is traded.

Meetings is ABC audited and certified.

We cannot deny the challenges that the meetings and events industry continues to face in the wake of the Covid-19 pandemic. At this point, I would like to encourage our readers to take a step back and look at how far we have come.

W

e have survived a whole year of lockdowns and uncertainty to bring us to where we are. We have lobbied government, put together remarkable showcases demonstrating that we can safely host events that address every single health and hygiene protocol, and we have come together in a way that we haven’t before.

Personally, I am immensely proud of what the MICE industry has accomplished and the inroads we have made to preserve the entire value chain as far as possible – from suppliers and venues, to associations and planners – what is clear to me is that each of us has a key role to play, and I feel that our 2020 Snapshot on page 18 showcases this beautifully.

Another exciting development coming out of 2020 to usher in the future of MICE is in the education space. Turn to page 16 to read about the assortment of certifications, courses and training currently available to the industry.

One of the many challenges we face as planners in the digital age is how to reach and exceed our targets and deliver on perfection at unbeatable value.

Unfortunately, with the economy being what it is, there is not enough time, money or resources to waste on hosting frivolous events that rack up huge costs and, ultimately, achieve very little, other than to show off in front of a crowd. That is why it is so important to define your eventing objectives and put in place the metrics to gauge how these are being met – you can read about this on page 14.

Lastly, in this issue of The Meetings & Event Planner, we explore how we can best plan creative and immersive events for our clients and attendees. Learn about some of these tips and tools on page 20 in our Innovation Station pages.

To all our loyal readers, thank you for your support over the years. Please get in touch and share your views with me via email (shanna.jacobsen@3smedia.co.za) or on social media (@ThePlannerGuru).

To the industry as a whole, let’s keep collaborating and doing what we do best – putting together creative, impactful and meaningful experiences that matter.

Shanna

THE MEETINGS & EVENT PLANNER 2021 •

3

INDEXING

z

ADVERTISERS

to

37

4 • www.theplanner.guru

26

32 COMPANY

SECTION

PAGE

Anantara Hotels & Resorts

Venue

OBC

Avani Gaborone Resort & Casino

Venue

74

Avani Lesotho Hotel & Casino

Venue

72

Avani Victoria Falls Resort

Venue

75

Avani Windhoek Hotel & Casino

Venue

73

Barmotion

Services

84

Cape Town International Convention Centre

Venue

26

Champagne Sports Resort

Venue

40

Downings Marquee Rentals

Services

83

Durban International Conference Centre

Venue

38

Emperors Palace

Venue

10

EPH Group

Services

78

Event Wizards

Services

76

Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife

Venue

43

Fancourt Hotel

Venue

30

Harties Boat Company

Venue

68

Hilton Sandton

Venue

65

Hospitality Zone

Services

81

Hotel Sky

Venue

64

Indaba Hotel

Venue

66

Ingwenyama Conference & Sport Facility

Venue

70

Country Boutique Hotel

Venue

71

Le Franschhoek Hotel

Venue

28

Lumi Insight

Services

IBC

Mauritius Tourism Promotion Authority

Services

IFC

INDEXING

29 34

COMPANY

SECTION

Pumula Beach Hotel

Venue

37

Rubber Duc

Services

85

Spier Wine Farm

Venue

32

Sun International - Featured Venue

Venue

24

Sun International - Carnival City

Venue

49

Sun International - Golden Valley Lodge

Venue

50

Sun International - GrandWest Casino

Venue

51

Venue

47

Venue

46

Sun International - Sun City Resort

Venue

56

Sun International - Table Bay Hotel

Venue

53

Sun International - The Boardwalk Casino and Hotel

Venue

54

Sun International - The Flamingo Casino

Venue

48

Sun International - The Maslow Hotel

Venue

58

Sun International - Time Square

Venue

60

Sun International - Wild Coast Sun

Venue

44

Sun International - Windmill Lodge

Venue

52

Sun International Group

Venue

22

Tau Game Lodge

Venue

69

The Dream Team

Services

82

The Oyster King

Services

80

Tsogo Sun

Venue

2

Two Oceans Aquarium

Venue

34

Ukushisa Services

Services

87

Sun International - Meropa Casino and Entertainment World Sun International - Sibaya Casino and Entertainment Kingdom

40

PAGE

38

30 THE MEETINGS & EVENT PLANNER 2021 •

5

INDEXING

VENUES

Please note that all capacities provided by venues are subject to social distancing and the ongoing lockdown level regulations.

by

CAPACITY MAX PAX

VENUE

NO. OF EVENT SPACEs

ACCOMMODATION NO. ROOMS

AREA

PROVINCE/ REGION

PAGE

10 000 - 30 000 Cape Town International Convention Centre

30 000

66

off-site

Cape Town

Western Cape

26

Durban International Conference Centre

20 000

32

off-site

Durban

KwaZulu-Natal

38

Sun International - Time Square

10 500

18

238

Pretoria

Gauteng

60

Sandton Convention Centre

10 000+

19

off-site

Sandton

Gauteng

61

Johannesburg Expo Centre

10 000+

11

off-site

Nasrec

Gauteng

24

Sun International - GrandWest Casino

6 866

8

176

Cape Town

Western Cape

51

Sun International - Sun City Resort

6 000

36

1 310

Rustenburg

North West

56

5 000 - 7 000

1 400 - 2 500 Sun International - Carnival City

2 500

11

105

Brakpan

Gauteng

49

Sun International - The Boardwalk Casino and Hotel

1 600

5

140

Port Elizabeth

Eastern Cape

54

Two Oceans Aquarium

1 500

5

off-site

Cape Town

Western Cape

34

Champagne Sports Resort

1 400

16

152 hotel rooms, 91 chalets

Central Drakensberg

KwaZulu-Natal

40

500 - 1 000 Ingwenyama Conference & Sport Facility

1 000

11

133

White River

Mpumalanga

70

Hilton Sandton

900

12

329

Sandton

Gauteng

65

Sun International - Wild Coast Sun

900

5

396

Mzamba Beach

Eastern Cape

44

Indaba Hotel

800

24

258

Fourways

Gauteng

66

Sun International - Sibaya Casino and Entertainment Kingdom

800

1

154

uMhlanga

KwaZulu-Natal

46

Spier Wine Farm

700

12

151

Stellenbosch

Western Cape

32

Sun International - Meropa Casino and Entertainment World

600

10

60

Polokwane

Limpopo

47

46 49 48 6 • www.theplanner.guru

52 50

INDEXING

44 MAX PAX

VENUE

NO. OF EVENT SPACEs

ACCOMMODATION NO. ROOMS

AREA

PROVINCE/ REGION

PAGE

150 - 420 Sun International - The Maslow Hotel

420

22

281

Sandton

Gauteng

58

Fancourt Hotel

300

7

133

George

Western Cape

30

Sun International - Table Bay Hotel

300

5

329

Cape Town

Western Cape

53

Avani Victoria Falls Resort

250

12

212

Livingstone

Zambia

75

Sun International - Windmill Lodge

250

4

off-site

Bloemfontein

Free State

52

Avani Lesotho Hotel & Casino

150

8

158

Maseru

Lesotho

72

50 - 140 Avani Windhoek Hotel & Casino

140

8

173

Windhoek

Namibia

73

Pumula Beach Hotel

130

2

63

Umzumbe

KwaZulu-Natal

37

Le Franschhoek Hotel & Spa

120

5

79

Franschhoek

Western Cape

28

Sun International - Golden Valley Lodge

120

4

97

Worcester

Western Cape

50

Harties Boat Company

100

3

19

Hartbeesport Dam

North West

68

Sun International - The Flamingo Casino

70

3

90

Kimberley

Northern Cape

48

Tau Game Lodge

60

4

30 luxury chalets

Madikwe

North West

69

Avani Gaborone Resort & Casino

50

10

199

Gabarone

Botswana

74

Country Boutique Hotel

50

1

22

White River

Mpumalanga

71

54

57

58

60 53

THE MEETINGS & EVENT PLANNER 2021 •

7

INDEXING

VENUES by

REGION

EASTERN CAPE VENUE

AREA

PAGE

Sun International - The Boardwalk Casino and Hotel

Port Elizabeth

54

Sun International - Wild Coast Sun

Mzamba Beach

44

FREE STATE VENUE

AREA

Sun International - Windmill Lodge

Bloemfontein

PAGE 52

GAUTENG

66

69

VENUE

AREA

Emperors Palace

Kempton Park

PAGE 10

Hilton Sandton

Sandton

65

Hotel Sky

Sandton

64

Indaba Hotel

Fourways

66

Sun International - Carnival City

Brakpan

49

Sun International - The Maslow Hotel

Sandton

58

Sun International - Time Square

Pretoria

60

KWAZULU-NATAL VENUE

AREA

Champagne Sports Resort

Central Drakensberg

PAGE 40

Durban International Conference Centre

Durban

38

Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife

Ezemvelo

43

Pumula Beach Hotel

Umzumbe

37

Sun International - Sibaya Casino and Entertainment Kingdom

uMhlanga

46

LIMPOPO VENUE

AREA

Sun International - Meropa Casino and Entertainment World

Polokwane

PAGE 47

MPUMALANGA

65

VENUE

AREA

Ingwenyama Conference & Sport Facility

White River

70

Country Boutique Hotel

White River

71

68

PAGE

INDEXING

80

NORTH WEST VENUE

AREA

PAGE

Harties Boat Company

Hartbeesport Dam

68

Sun International - Sun City Resort

Rustenburg

56

Tau Game Lodge

Madikwe

69

Sun International - The Flamingo Casino

Kimberley

48

WESTERN CAPE VENUE

AREA

PAGE

Cape Town International Convention Centre

Cape Town

26

Fancourt Hotel

George

30

Le Franschhoek Hotel & Spa

Franschhoek

28

Spier Wine Farm

Stellenbosch

32

Sun International - Golden Valley Lodge

Worcester

50

Sun International - GrandWest Casino

Cape Town

51

Sun International - Table Bay Hotel

Cape Town

53

Two Oceans Aquarium

Cape Town

34

AFRICA VENUE

AREA

PAGE

Avani Gaborone Resort & Casino

Gaborone, Botswana

74

Avani Lesotho Hotel & Casino

Maseru, Lesotho

72

Avani Victoria Falls Resort

Livingstone, Zambia

75

Avani Windhoek Hotel & Casino

Windhoek, Namibia

73

SERVICE PROVIDERS

AND PRODUCTS

BY TYPE

SERVICE PROVIDER

SERVICE

Lumi Insight

App development

IBC

Ukushisa Services

Cleaning

87

Mauritius Tourism Promotion Authority

Destination promotion

IFC

Rubber Duc

Entertainment

85

EPH Group

Event production & management

78

Barmotion

Food & beverage

84

The Oyster King

Food & beverage

80

Hospitality Junxion

Marketing

81

Downings Marquee Rentals

Marquee Hire

83

The Dream Team

Team building

82

78

PAGE

83

BEST

PRACTICE

WHAT’S HOT, WHAT’S NOT AND WHY WE NEED TO DELIVER ON EXCEPTIONAL VALUE THAT IS BOTH ORIGINAL AND MEASURABLE.

BEST PRACTICE

AHEAD OF

THE GAME With a rapidly shifting industry, The Meetings & Event Planner looks at how you can keep up.

SAFETY & WELL-BEING SAFETY FIRST Cleaning, hygiene and screening protocols are non-negotiable

LATEST REGULATIONS Understand all the current government restrictions that may apply to you

WELLNESS CHECK Are you well? Are those around you well?

ENCOURAGE MINDFULNESS ‘Living in the now’ is not only therapeutic but enhances situational awareness

NETWORKING KEEP COLLABORATING

INDUSTRY

Build a network of partners with similar objectives

GO OMNICHANNEL Broaden your horizons beyond Facebook

KNOWLEDGE & COMMUNICATION KEEP CURRENT

CROSS-POLLINATE Leverage your network

How else will you be relevant in an ever-changing landscape?

PART OF THE SOLUTION

AVOID FAKE NEWS

FRONTLINE SUPPORT

Stay accurately informed of the facts with credible and official sources

INTENTIONAL COMMUNICATION Who are you communicating with? How? And, most importantly, WHY?

12 • www.theplanner.guru

Venues and service providers are assisting in the fight against Covid-19

MORE THAN AN INDUSTRY Meetings and events happen across all industries – how can you plug in?

#MEETINGS+EVENTS2021

EVENTS DIGITAL

ENGAGEMENT

EMBRACE VIRTUAL

EXCITE ATTENDEES

Virtual meetings and events are not the same as in-person but provide a solution… for now

Switch up the pace with entertainment, interactivity, or even meditation

TEST THE WATERS

SHARE AND EXCHANGE

Keep experimenting, innovating and improving

Allow time for all participants to connect through sharing ideas and experiences

GO HYBRID Have your cake and eat it with the best of both worlds

MASSIVE REACH

FOLLOW UP WITH FEEDBACK Understand what you can do better next time

Take advantage of your potential to reach a global audience

EXECUTION AMPLIFY EMOTIONS Create an impact by speaking to the heart of your audiences

EMPHASISE THE SENSES Create a mood with exciting visual cues and design, topped off with a personalised basket of tasty treats for attendees to enjoy remotely

DATA + ANALYTICS ACCESS TO ANALYTICS Track numbers with the right tools

QUANTIFY SUCCESS Understand your metrics

DELIVER INSIGHTS Create value by sharing and archiving your findings

THE MEETINGS & EVENT PLANNER 2021 •

13

BEST PRACTICE

END GOAL “What are our meeting and event objectives and how are we going to get there?” The Meetings & Event Planner understands why we need to answer these burning questions.

A

lthough it may seem like a simple enough task to put together an event, the intricacies of planning to deliver on – and ideally exceed – eventing expectations for our clients and delegates demand the greatest attention to detail.

Naturally, expectations are high – about as high as the bar is currently set, and with good reason; there are exceptional showcases of numerous executions that have made that sought-after, indelible mark on audiences.

This is where we need to be, but how can we get there?

BE PRACTICAL THEN WHIMSICAL Balancing your budget and brief is where you will need to spend a fair share of your focus.

Conceptualise and envision with your client what they want their event to look like. Ask questions that seek to establish why they want to hold an event and whether they know who their target audience is. If it is unclear

14 • www.theplanner.guru

at this point, all is not lost, as it gives you an opportunity to spend time with your client identifying and refining their goals. This forms the starting block of your objectives, so it is key that this is established before any other planning can happen.

Once you have a solid framework bedded down, crunch the numbers. Start with your budget and work backwards, deducting what you need to include and then factor in what is ‘nice to have’. Use your creativity to find the best solutions possible to deliver the ultimate experience for your clients and attendees. Be thorough when sourcing quotes and aim for a minimum of three comparisons. Also ask for word-of-mouth recommendations that have been tried and tested.

ANIMAL, VEGETABLE, MINERAL Reverse engineer your event and ask attendees what they want. Much like the popular gameshow that ran between 1946 and 1955, asking those 20 questions will yield more

insights than if you had made an assumption of what might work well with audiences. This can be done in the form of an online poll or survey; however, it requires a longer lead time to collate responses and findings in time to factor this into your planning and organising.

Be prescriptive but open to suggestion; if you already have in mind what you might like to do, gauge your audience’s thoughts by getting them to rate or rank these ideas but include an option where they can also provide unique insights.

METRICS MATTER MOST We live in an age where just about everything is measurable. When the time comes to plan and organise an event, it’s important to establish what sort of ROI you or your client are looking for. How are you qualifying and quantifying the success of your event – is this based on high levels of engagement and exposure across platforms such as social media, is it money in the bank, or simply to

#DEFININGOBJECTIVES capture a robust conversation between a panel over a hot topic?

From a technical standpoint, it is up to you to ensure that there are systems in place to measure and track analytics such as engagement and audience response – Google Analytics, as an example, makes use of Javascript to track and measure performance on platforms like websites. This is also where you need to be careful because if you don’t carefully set the parameters, or dimensions, of the analytics then you are going to have everything but the kitchen sink thrown at you.

20 1

Cost per customer acquisition

2

otal number of qualified leads T acquired at the event

3

S ponsors highly ranking their satisfaction with the event

4

Individual promo code tracking link performance

5

Gross revenue

6

Total number of registrations

7

S ocial media mentions using designated event hashtag on each platform

8

e majority of attendees polling Th highly satisfied with event speakers

9

umber of total active community N members after event (compared to total number before the event)

10

umerical results from attendee N satisfaction surveys

11

Number of total event checkins compared to registrations as a percentage

12

Net promoter score

13

vent community engagement E online as measured by social media interactions or specified activity on event app

14

Live event app polling

15

S ocial media posts, likes and shares pertaining to the event

16

icket sales and individual ticket T type performance

• Networking and relationship building

17

Cost-to-revenue ratio

• Positive socio-economic impact and environmental upliftment

18

• Showcasing local arts, culture, destinations and venues

I ndividual sponsor page engagement on the event website

19

And don’t forget to develop SMART (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Realistic, Time) objectives!

umber of repeat attendees (for N recurring events)

20

Total new customers acquired

TRIAL AND ERROR Accept that getting it right might mean getting it wrong first. To avoid a complete blunder, make small changes and inclusions to your programme that increase participation, such as prizes or giveaways that incentivise engagement.

Tweak small aspects such as design and calls to action across the platforms you have available to you to see where you are getting the most traction – by making only small adjustments each time, you can identify what is working and what isn’t with more immediacy and more accuracy; however, in order to achieve this, you need to follow your analytics very closely. Social media makes this easy with the information already immediately visible to the original poster but for email shots and newsletters, these would be based on opens and click-throughs. While this requires different tracking, reputable mail services also provide these stats.

WHAT SORT OF EVENTING OBJECTIVES COULD WE CONSIDER?

LONG-TERM GAIN It takes time to build an audience and influence their decisions, but this doesn’t happen overnight. Once you have identified what works and what will resonate with your audience, be consistent in your efforts and messaging, as this builds trust in your clients’ events as a brand or product. And keep your finger on the pulse; as we saw during 2020, the landscape can shift drastically and if your offering doesn’t align to factors such as current lockdown regulations then it will unfortunately be deemed defunct.

Don’t lose sight of your objectives and adapt where you need to.

• Awards and special recognition • Audience engagement • Brand and product awareness • Creating stakeholder interest and buy-in • Entertainment • Generating revenue or sales • Ideation and knowledge sharing

THE MEETINGS & EVENT PLANNER 2021 •

Source: Cvent

KPIs TO DETERMINE EVENT SUCCESS

15

BEST PRACTICE

STEPPING IT UP

A NOTCH CERTIFIED MEETING PROFESSIONAL (CMP) EDUCATION PROVIDER: Events Industry Council (EIC) + preferred providers CERTIFICATION OUTLINE: Must be competent across specific areas to take CMP exam.

Certification is valid for five years COSTS: US$250 (R3 680) application fee; $475 (R7 000) exam fee, with preferential rates offered to those affected by Covid-19

Certification, education and training has historically been a major stumbling block but it is one that the MICE industry is overcoming. The Meetings & Event Planner examines what is currently on offer across a range of competencies.

CERTIFIED EXHIBITION MANAGEMENT (CEM) EDUCATION PROVIDER: Association of African Exhibition Organisers (AAXO) together with the International Association of Exhibitions and Events (IAEE) CERTIFICATION OUTLINE: Eight online modules (each runs over four weeks) with corresponding exams that must be taken within 90 days of completing the course

across exhibitions and events. To be accepted into the programme, you must have three years of full-time experience in the exhibitions and events industry.

The CEM designation course is made up of the following modules: • Conference and Meeting Management • Consumer Show Management • Event Marketing

COSTS: Between R22 455 and R24 950 per person

• Event Operations

DESCRIPTION: AAXO, in conjunction with the IAEE, has brought the internationally recognised CEM course to Africa.

• Finance, Budgeting and Contracts

Consisting of eight online modules and launched in February last year, AAXO saw a total of 10 individuals graduate from its CEM programme in 2020.

The CEM designation has become more sought after as it provides transferable skills that can be applied in any international exhibition market.

This qualification provides the highest professional standards in management

16 • www.theplanner.guru

• Exhibition and Event Sales • Security, Risk, and Crisis Management • Strategic Planning and Management.

REGISTER AT: aaxo.co.za/course/cem-training

DESCRIPTION: In order to apply for or recertify CMP certifications, meetings professionals must have worked 36 months in a full-time position within the meetings industry (24 months of the individual has a role within the hospitality industry) and log a minimum of 25 hours of ‘continued education’ before taking the exam.

The process for obtaining a CMP certification is twofold; prior to sitting for the exam, each applicant must successfully demonstrate his or her eligibility with an application to the EIC or one of its preferred CMP partners.

The applicant must then pass a written exam that covers the various functions of meeting management.

The exam tests knowledge across the following areas: • Meeting or event design (34%) • Site management (14%) • Marketing (12%) • Financial and contract management (11%) • Strategic planning (10%) • Project management (6%) • Risk management (5%) • Human resources (4%) • Stakeholder management (4%).

Certification exams are now offered throughout the duration of the year, whereas previously, there were only four testing windows during which the CMP exam could be taken.

REGISTER AT: eventscouncil.org/CMP/Future-CMPs

#EDUTRAINING

CERTIFIED EVENT SAFETY PRACTITIONER

IIE BACHELOR OF HOSPITALITY MANAGEMENT

EDUCATION PROVIDER: Southern African Communications Industries Association (SACIA)

EDUCATION PROVIDER: IIE School of Hospitality & Service Management

CERTIFICATION OUTLINE: An online multiple‐choice exam with a portfolio of evidence independently assessed by SACIA’s certification council

QUALIFICATION OUTLINE: 24 modules, 3 years full-time; 4.5 years part-time

COSTS: Once-off registration fee of R575, annual membership fee of R575, annual certification fee of R1 610, $40 (R590) to write the exam

COSTS: R1 000 non-refundable application fee; fees range between R34 200 and R72 600 per annum based on payment terms and face-to-face versus distance learning

DESCRIPTION: SACIA is recognised by the South African Qualifications Authority as a professional body that provides several designations to industry professionals in the communications industry.

Applicants for this designation must have an existing NQF level 4 qualification (such as a National Senior Certificate, or matric) and at least two years’ experience working as an event safety officer.

They must also submit a portfolio of evidence to demonstrate their knowledge within event safety.

According to SACIA, each qualifying applicant must meet the following areas of competency: 1. A fundamental knowledge of event safety practices across multiple event formats, as well as an understanding of the key terms, rules, concepts, established principles and theories related to event safety.

2. The candidate should demonstrate a broad understanding of standards, regulations and laws relating to event safety (including but not limited to the Occupational Health & Safety Act, SANS 10366, Safety at Sports & Recreational Events Act, Basic Conditions of Employment Act, Employment Equity Act (section 6), Promotion of Equality and Prevention of Unfair Discrimination Act, and the Disaster Management Act), and should understand how these are applied across multiple event formats.

SCHOOL OF HOSPITALITY & SERVICE MANAGEMENT

DESCRIPTION: The IIE Bachelor of Hospitality Management is intended to enable participants to demonstrate their abilities in the area of hospitality management through a number of Work Integrated Learning modules that apply to both the private and public sector.

“The demands of a dynamic industry necessitate the development of integrated competencies as it draws on various disciplines, including management, entrepreneurship, finance, law and legislation of the broader hospitality product. In addition, this IIE qualification will

support graduates’ ability to act ethically and professionally and formulate sound academic and work-related arguments to solve problems and advance the discourse in the hospitality and service focused sectors,” the IIE notes in the course outline.

The qualification prepares participants for a possible career as the following: • General manager • Rooms division manager • Food and beverage manager • Concierge • Guest relations manager • Customer success manager • Client-relations manager • Member services specialist • Customer support manager • Customer experience manager.

REGISTER AT: iiehsm.com/iie-bachelor-HM

3. A broad understanding of dispute resolution techniques applicable to both public and private spaces, as well as practical experience in the implementation of guidelines, processes and procedures required for planning, organising and running events.

4. The ability to adhere to the SACIA code of professional conduct, and the ability to understand societal values and ethics. In particular, the candidate should demonstrate a broad understanding of gender‐based violence, discrimination, victimisation, sexual harassment, bullying and intimidation that may apply in an event environment.

5. The ability to communicate and present event and safety information reliably and accurately in written and in oral form.

6. An understanding of the organisational structure used in the events industry, including the role and responsibility of agencies (SACIA Members Handbook 2021, page 33) involved in the inspection and approval of event power and temporary demountable structures.

7. A fundamental ability to conduct a risk analysis on events across multiple formats.

REGISTER AT: www.classmarker.com/online-test/start/?quiz=rxd6000115be5bd8 THE MEETINGS & EVENT PLANNER 2021 •

17

BEST PRACTICE

A MOMENT IN TIME

The Meetings & Event Planner looks at some of the remarkable moments of 2020 that bear testimony to the strength and resilience of the MICE industry.

RECHARGE 2020 21 December 2020 Held at the Grand Café & Beach venue, with live acts and DJs, the event was a showcase for how testing can be done on-site and was an important stepping stone towards a wider reopening of live events in 2021.

“Give the vaccine roll-out and distribution to the events industry – we’re the ones dealing with tens of thousands of people at a time.”

- Justin van Wyk, CEO, Big Concerts

RESTART EXPO 25-26 November 2020 A two-day live exhibition that demonstrated all health and safety protocols between Specialised Exhibitions, Johannesburg Expo Centre and a number of industry associations and organisations.

“The Restart Expo was key in demonstrating the distinction between mass gatherings and business events, with the opportunity to motivate the government to increase the limit to at least 50% of venue capacity for business events.”

- Projeni Pather, chairperson, AAXO

18 • www.theplanner.guru

“We are not doing this as a showcase of any individual, company or organisation but as a showcase of the industry as a whole… this is being done to showcase to the authorities that we can do this without limited restrictions.”

- Craig Newman, group CEO, GL events South Africa

#SNAPSHOT2020

PCO ALLIANCE REIGNITE YOUR BUSINESS PROOF OF CONCEPT 1 September 2020 A collaboration with various industry players aimed at building confidence in the ability of the events industry to run safe events for the corporate sector.

“Yes, we have had to change our thinking and mindset – the stringent event safety protocols add an additional layer on to the safety protocols we have always used. As event organisers, planning is what we do best, and the safety of all our participants is of utmost importance.”

- Ellen Oosthuizen, chairperson, PCO Alliance + South African Events Council

#LIGHTSARED

5 August 2020 and beyond An ongoing initiative to highlight and raise awareness around the plight faced by the live events industry.

“The beauty of the event industry is that we are strictly regulated. Even prior to the Covid-19 pandemic, we could not do an event unless we were compliant with city regulations, permits and approvals. Nothing has changed but what we have done is work very hard with our SA Events Safety Council and put together a plan that directly addresses communicable diseases, specific to Covid-19.”

- Sharif Baker, chairperson of the TPSA and spokesperson for #LightSAred

SAACI PROOF OF CONCEPT 22 July 2020 A hybrid event hosted across five venues that saw collaboration between SAACI, the SA Events Council, the Events Safety Council, and a number of suppliers and venues.

“We have a deep commitment to putting the well-being of our clients and guests before any of our own business imperatives and take a long-term view in monitoring and controlling the situation in our facilities.”

- Bronwen Cadle de Ponte, GM, CSIR ICC

THE MEETINGS & EVENT PLANNER 2021 •

19

BEST PRACTICE

INNOVATION STATION

In a bid to be unique and outdo yourself by bringing together experiences that are more engaging than the last, do you have the right tools? The

Meetings & Event Planner explores.

B

ringing together exciting and engaging eventing experiences leading up to the pandemic circa 2019 wasn’t easy and, as we discovered in the space of a year, virtual meetings and events can be boring – draining, even.

So, what can we do to breathe life into our events and keep our attendees attentive?

CREATE A SAFE SPACE Safety first. People are far more wary of health risks than ever before and this won’t change in a hurry – at least not until we have achieved some degree of population immunity against Covid-19.

If you live in a country or area with a high number of cases, factor this into your decision to host an in-person event.

Unless you can successfully address all possible health and safety concerns through stringent hygiene measures and protocols, turn to online. In the same way you would run an in-person event at a venue, make sure you are making use of a platform that is easy to access and navigate, as well as user-friendly.

Providing a comprehensive guide that includes step-by-step details to access your event with screenshots and a clear description of where the attendee needs to go will help to ensure a stressfree experience for your delegates. This can also include your house rules and social media handles, as well as other platforms that your event may be streaming to, such as YouTube or Facebook Live.

DESIGN HAS NEVER BEEN SO IMPORTANT The standards of delivery and execution are higher than ever, and design can no longer just be functional – it needs to be out of this world!

20 • www.theplanner.guru

This may inspire some exciting ideas but – before getting carried away – remember that, first and foremost, your event needs to make sense.

Design counts for far more than one might think and encompasses everything from venue and/or platform setup to the colours used on your invites; most importantly, this function primarily focuses on how your event has been constructed. This is key because if each programme element isn’t well balanced and doesn’t flow well from one programme item to the next – or worse, is a poor fit for your attendees – it can cause a degree of confusion among attendees and embarrassment on your part. Creating an experience that impacts,

intrigues and invigorates your audience should be your goal; however, in order to do this, you need to be relatable and relevant.

THE STARS OF THE SHOW The emphasis has shifted from your event speakers to your attendees; making them central to your discussion allows for a far more dynamic, two-way engagement. During panel sessions and depending on what your time allocation allows for, gently prompt and remind your audience to engage at regular intervals with a question or two; follow their comments and weave interesting viewpoints into the conversation. Give credit to whichever audience member this originated from – this underscores the value of each attendee’s contribution and will hopefully encourage

#CREATIVITY

FULLY IMMERSIVE – MIND, BODY, SOUL Set the scene with lighting and colour, audio and visual Warm the hearts of delegates with goodies and gifts sent directly to their homes Find a worthy cause that your event can align to and support

DEVELOP A SOLID BRAND IDENTITY

others to join in on the conversation. Remember, not everyone will want to be front and centre of the conversation, so create options for different levels of engagement, such as polls or surveys, where their contribution can be looked at as a part of a collective whole.

For attendees who are happy to be in the limelight, reward their engagement and participation with prizes for the most active member of your audience, and comments that are most shared or liked. If there are especially expressive individuals, consider including them on one of your panels in the future.

ONCE-IN-A-LIFETIME EVENT Your event needs to make an impression on your audience and leave them feeling as if the insights they have gained and the overall experience of being at your event could not have been achieved elsewhere.

Your speakers and content need to be geared towards focusing on not just the bottom line of the topic but cover all bases. From industry trends, legislation and current environmental challenges to individual links across the value chain and how each can be affected, there are fundamental and encompassing themes no matter what sector you are looking at. All of these

topics will come up during events that speak specifically to that industry – but the angle and how they are discussed are the differentiators.

Produce content and showcase concepts, ideas and applications that provide attendees with real food for thought and information that is so interesting that they will want to share this with their entire network. But be selective in how you present this.

Ensure you give enough information to your audience that it covers all trends and properly contextualises this but present it in a way that creates continuity with your event beyond the event itself, opening the door for deeper engagement with your audience.

Getting this right sets a tone and standard for your events in the future but take care to avoid being overdone and making your next event a rehashed version of what you’ve done previously.

Lastly, develop your own unique style for your event’s brand identity. Much like your content, ensure this has continuity and can be adapted and refreshed if your event is rolled out as a series.

Do your research and see what campaigns are effective in attracting large swathes of people – are audiences responding to what is ‘fashionable’ from a look-and-feel perspective, i.e. striking visual design – or do they resonate more with messaging and content? Evaluate whether this relates to a specific industry or if this is a more general trend among audiences.

Consider a balance of elements that are successful among both to have greater appeal and don’t forget the power of issuing a strong call to action that makes your audience know that they matter to the success of your event.

THE

VENUES

FROM LIMPOPO TO LIVINGSTONE, TAKE A TOUR WITH THE MEETINGS & EVENT PLANNER AS WE TRAVERSE ACROSS SOUTH AFRICA, AND BEYOND, TO EXPLORE THE REGION’S TOP VENUES.

COVER STORY

MEET WHERE

IT MATTERS

Sun City is popular for blending business and leisure experiences, and it has now upped the ante with its newly renovated entertainment area to create the ultimate pairing for its guests.

Sun City has taken extraordinary measures to provide the best offerings and experiences for its guests while keeping them safe and healthy.

N

estled between the Elands River and the Pilanesberg mountain range in South Africa’s North West province, the sprawling Sun City is a world all of its own.

Renowned for its world-class facilities and the unparalleled beauty of its natural surrounds,

24 • www.theplanner.guru

WELCOME TO SUN CENTRAL Inspiring exciting possibilities, Sun International has recently completed extensive renovations at its Sun City property that have seen its much-loved entertainment and Convention Centre being revamped and relaunched as Sun Central. Home to an array of restaurants and shops on the lower level and the Sun City Convention Centre on the upper level, Sun Central is stepping into a new age of entertainment and conferencing.

The Sun City Convention Centre offers an exceptional variety of banqueting and conferencing facilities suitable for large and/ or small delegations, regulations and protocols permitting. Complemented by its own slow

lounge, Splice, and trendy coffee shop, Stir, the Convention Centre boasts a selection of meeting rooms, breakaway rooms and state-ofthe-art venues to choose from.

During their visit, delegates also have access to the 10-pin bowling alley and arcade games without having to leave Sun Central.

EXTENSIVE UPGRADES The Sun City Convention Centre boasts 17 upgraded meeting and seminar rooms that can be arranged to provide unique solutions tailored to client needs. Together with a fresh approach that has been adopted across its floor plans, each room comes equipped with the latest technology to power your event.

The existing conference room and the Kings ballroom have been completely overhauled to bring you a new look and feel with improved technology and easier access. The centre now also includes two new auditoriums.

#SUNCITY

To complete this offering, brand new extended kitchens incorporate new cooking technology to bring you better food faster, while the innovative and interactive display and tasting kitchen brings culinary experiences to life.

FROM BORING BOARDROOMS TO EXHILARATING ADVENTURE Sun City delivers on its promise of conferencing with a difference. With its wide selection of meeting rooms and conferencing facilities, as well as an assortment of activities to choose from, Sun City can turn any business gathering into an adventure-filled experience.

Hosting an event or conference at Sun City is fun and invigorating – from going for a hot air balloon ride to going down the fastest zip slide in the world, there are endless options that will appeal to any guest and leave them feeling spoilt for choice.

For nature lovers, the Pilanesberg National Park can be accessed directly through Sun City. Home to the big five as well as a number of other birds and mammals indigenous to South Africa, a game drive in the park is not to be missed.

ACCOMMODATION FOR ALL When it comes to accommodation, Sun City has everything you need. With four hotels – each with its own unique style, character and attractions – there is no shortage of options.

For a stay steeped in luxury, guests will feel pampered at the pride of Sun City, the Palace of the Lost City, where every detail has been considered and each experience uniquely envisioned.

The five-star Cascades, meanwhile, are elegant, comfortable and central to all Sun City’s hotspots and attractions. The flamboyant four-star Soho and Casino is where all the action is, and guests can rest their weary heads at the three-star Cabanas, located near Waterworld Lake.

BIO-BUBBLE SAFETY At Sun City, the health and safety of all guests and staff is a priority. Through careful planning, extensive measures have been taken to ensure anyone who is on Sun City’s premises is safeguarded. Sun City can host and cater for any sporting or other type of event that requires a bio-bubble. This means creating different layers within the bio-bubble to minimise exposure and risk, with inner, middle

SUN CITY – A BRIEF HISTORY Sun City was built by local hotel mogul Sol Kerzner and opened in 1979. It has since

and outer bio-bubbles that follow a number of different measures. The inner bubble is intended to be the safest and follows the strictest protocols.

Within the inner bubble, individuals are required to undergo a rapid antigen or PCR Covid-19 test. All testing will be done as per changing regulations. Individuals will only be permitted into the inner bubble if their Covid-19 test is negative, and this includes the dedicated staff that will be servicing them.

A buddy system has been implemented to ensure that individuals only come into close contact with a group of three other people at most. This is to ensure that if anyone develops any symptoms, only the people in this buddy group are removed from the inner bubble.

Segregated accommodation, dining and entertainment is provided for all persons approved to be in the inner bubble and caters for buddies in their individual groups. This also extends to all necessary facilities to ensure the safety of guests and other individuals.

For sporting events, this includes medical professionals and physios, andapplies to changerooms and other shared spaces.

As per the standard Sun International Covid-19 protocols, certain practices will be enforced such as daily symptom screening, wearing of masks, physical distancing and sanitisation.

For more information, visit suninternational.com

grown into one of South Africa’s most iconic venues and has hosted international acts and concerts as well as major events such as the South African Music Awards and Miss South Africa pageants.

THE MEETINGS & EVENT PLANNER 2021 •

25

VENUES

MEETING SPACES 66 MAX PAX *30 000 ACCOMMODATION OFF-SITE

CAPE TOWN, WESTERN CAPE

CAPE TOWN INTERNATIONAL CONVENTION CENTRE (CTICC) is the leading venue for conferences, exhibitions and events on the African continent, located in the heart of Cape Town, South Africa. The purpose-built events complex consists of CTICC 1 and CTICC 2, which are connected by a sky bridge, and boasts a floor space of 140 855 m2. Whether you are planning a large international congress or a small, half-day conference, CTICC’s expansive conference facilities offer unrivalled flexibility, with over 17 years’ experience in service excellence driven by a dedicated team of professionals.

LOCATION CTICC is located in the Foreshore area of one of the world’s top destinations, Cape Town.

MEETING AND EVENT SPACES CTICC facilities include 21 400 m2 of multipurpose conference and exhibition space and 3 000 m2 of formal and informal meeting space; encompassing two raked auditoria seating 1 516 and 612 pax respectively; two terrace rooms for up to 330 and 450 pax; 47 breakout rooms accommodating between 20 and 370 pax; and versatile banqueting rooms, alongside a 2 000 m2 grand ballroom and beautiful rooftop venues with views of both the iconic Table Mountain and the Cape Town harbour.

*30 000 pax at a time, hosting a variety of events concurrently. The award-winning chef and the kitchen team provide five-star quality cuisine with customisable menus, which can be altered according to event requirements. The conferencing menus are always being updated and feature the latest food trends, while allowing for various food allergies and dietary requirements. In addition, the centre has a halaal kitchen and offers kosher options.

TEAM BUILDING The centre allows for any type of event imaginable, whether this is a conference, meeting or teambuilding session. As a venue, it has the space to make anything possible.

CATERING With one of the largest kitchens in the southern hemisphere, CTICC can accommodate up to

VENUES AND CAPACITIES Room name

FLOOR SPACE (m2)

HEIGHT (m)

Theatre

Classroom

U-shape

Boardroom

Banquet

Banquet Buffet

Cocktail

1 170 490 1 876 375 11 399 294

16.0 8.0 8.0 4.0 9.0-18.0 17.0

310 148 672 104 3 500 -

310 148 450 88 2 500 -

78 22 -

84 32 -

476 88 2 400 -

476 88 2 400 -

46

4 838 1 459 147 541 435 561

9.0 10.0 2.8 3.15 3.15 -

**1 385 448 156 110 120

**1 062 336 94 81 -

22 20 -

10 36 32 -

**1 016 312 92 60 -

**1 016 312 92 60 -

120

CTICC 1

Auditorium 1 (Room 1.10) Auditorium 2 (Room 1.80) Full Ballroom (Room 1.20) Meeting Room (Room 1.40) Full Exhibition Centre (Halls 1-4B) Jasminum Conservatory CTICC 2

Exhibition Halls (Halls 5, 6 & 7) Exhibition Hall 10 (Ballroom / Banqueting) Pincushion (Meeting Room) Daisy + Freesia + Orchid (Meeting Pod) Watsonia + Bluebell (Terrace Room) Mountain View

* Total pax prior to social distancing | ** Allowing sitelines to stage CTICC 1: Convention Square, 1 Lower Long www.cticc.co.za/cticc-1-2-virtual-tour

Street, Cape Town 8001, South Africa

@CTICC

GPS co-ordinates: -33.915141°,18.425657°

+27 (0)21 410 5000

CTICC 2: Corner of Heerengracht &

+27 (0)21 410 5001

@CTICC_Offical

Rua Bartholomeu Dias, Foreshore,

sales@cticc.co.za (sales)

@official_cticc

Cape Town 8001, South Africa

info@cticc.co.za (general)

youtube.com/user/cticcofficial

GPS co-ordinates: -33.91747°,18.42908°

www.cticc.co.za

Cape Town International Convention Centre

26 • www.theplanner.guru

READY TO WELCOME

THE WORLD

Call +27 21 410 5000, email sales@cticc.co.za or visit www.cticc.co.za

VENUES

FRANSCHHOEK, WESTERN CAPE

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.

LOCATION 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.

ACCOMMODATION Le Franschhoek Hotel & Spa offers unmatched accommodation in Franschhoek. The hotel features 79 en-suite rooms which includes the 2 deluxe villas and 16 classic villas, all elegantly furnished and dispersed over the whole estate.

CATERING Two on-site restaurants cater specifically for guests’ needs. Breakfast, lunch and fine dining can be enjoyed within a casual atmosphere in our relaxing private venue Le Verger restaurant, set against the exemplary mountain backdrop.

The Sauvage restaurant is tailored for the more distinctive taste receptors.

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.

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MEETING SPACES 5 MAX PAX 120 ACCOMMODATION 79 ROOMS

VENUES GAUTENG & INLAND VENUES AND CAPACITIES Room Name

Chantilly St Germaine Fontainbleau La Pavillion Excelsior House Versailles

Schoolroom

20 40 20 60 100 80

16 Minor Road, Franschhoek

Boardroom

10 18 15 20 20

Banquet

20 40 30 60 120 60

Cinema

30 50 30 80 120 120

U-shape

15 30 20 20 40

+27 (0)21 876 8900

LeFranschhoekHotelandSpa

banqueting@lefranschhoek.co.za

le_franschhoek

www.lefranschhoek.co.za

lefranschhoekhotel THE MEETINGS & EVENT PLANNER 2021 •

29

VENUES

MEETING SPACES 7 MAX PAX 300 ACCOMMODATION 133 ROOMS

GEORGE, WESTERN CAPE

RENOWNED FOR ITS three award-winning golf courses, ‘leading conference and incentive destination’ is yet another proficiency to add to Fancourt's repertoire.

Unapologetically engineered for both business and leisure, Fancourt is set to lure corporates looking for a little more carrot with just the right amount of stick.

With Fancourt’s flexible team of professionals ready to execute any request, co-workers and clients can keep on task while unleashing their creativity. From dine-arounds and wine parings in Bedouin tents, to festive shebeen evenings in the cart barn, and chic luncheons at the 17th hole of the Montagu course, expect your next event at Fancourt to reach far beyond your imagination.

ACCOMMODATION Fancourt has two accommodation offerings – a five-star hotel with 115 rooms, and the 18-suite Manor House, which offers personalised service with a unique combination of classic opulence and the indulgent sophistication of a 21st century boutique hotel.

CATERING

MEETING AND EVENT SPACES

With a spread of eateries, Fancourt provides ample catering options.

Henry White’s is renowned as a dining destination offering an enchanting night out with rich and classic local culinary heritage and a modern, all-encompassing dining appeal. For Fancourt’s golfing patrons, The Club Lounge provides a range of indoor and outdoor seating options, and offers a large selection of cocktail snacks, clubhouse steaks and burgers.

Fancourt’s breakfast restaurant of choice, La Cantina, is a culinary destination that is suitable for family dining, while Monet’s is the perfect place to relax from morning to late afternoon, with its outdoor pergola the ideal spot to celebrate any special occasion.

The Fancourt Estate offers a wide range of meeting and conferencing rooms, dining areas and private venues for exclusive functions, with each space being tailored to meet the needs of a particular event. Whether you’re hosting a corporate party, gala dinner, cocktail evening or breakfast, Fancourt’s venues will ensure that you and your guests are well looked after in comfort and style.

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.

LOCATION Situated on 613 hectares of lush landscape, with the Outeniqua Mountains as a backdrop, the long-standing Garden Route landmark is just 7 km from George Airport.

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TEAM BUILDING

VENUES VENUES AND CAPACITIES Room Name

Kingfisher

Classroom

U- shape

Herringbone

Cocktail

Dinner/banquet

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

Montagu Street, George

Cinema

+27 (0)44 804 0000

@Fancourt.SA

reservations@fancourt.co.za

@FANCOURTSA

www.fancourt.co.za

@fancourtsa THE MEETINGS & EVENT PLANNER 2021 •

31

VENUES

MEETING SPACES 12 MAX PAX 700 ACCOMMODATION 151 ROOMS

STELLENBOSCH, WESTERN CAPE

Spier Hotel & Wine Farm THE HISTORIC Spier Hotel & Wine Farm has 12 different meeting venues that can host meetings, workshops, seminars, exhibitions, performances, as well as conferences both large and small.

LOCATION Situated in the Stellenbosch Winelands, just 40 minutes from Cape Town and 20 minutes from Cape Town International Airport, its idyllic setting provides the perfect backdrop to almost any event.

MEETING AND EVENT SPACES The Spier Conference Centre has an auditorium that seats 370 pax (cinema style). Its three breakaway rooms can be used separately, or combined, to seat 240 pax. Need even more room? The recently refurbished Spier Amphitheatre can seat 700 pax. Three meeting rooms adjacent to the Amphitheatre work well for breakaway sessions or small gatherings, as does the majestic Manor House and its adjacent oakshaded courtyard, where teams can strategise in an intimate and relaxed environment.

Spier also has a smaller boardroom, which is a convenient venue for business guests or groups

32 • www.theplanner.guru

requiring a smaller meeting space for shorter periods of time.

ACCOMMODATION Set against the sprawling Spier estate, the four-star country-inspired Spier Hotel has 151 rooms to accommodate delegates and is well suited to accommodating bio-bubbles.

FOOD AND WINE Enjoy a taste experience of some of South Africa’s most renowned, award-winning wines. Once you’ve soaked up the views of the majestic Helderberg mountains, head to Vadas Smokehouse & Bakery or the Spier Hotel Restaurant for delicious farm-inspired food.

Feeling lazy? Relax with a picnic under the ancient oaks on the Werf instead.

VIRTUAL AND HYBRID CONFERENCING With Spier’s fast internet and latest generation audiovisual tech, combining virtual conferencing with Spier’s classic farm hospitality in person is a breeze. Spier has an abundance of outdoor spaces and spacious venues meaning distancing is easy during meetings, breakouts or meals.

VENUES VENUES AND CAPACITIES Room Name

Foyer Tamboer Lounge Auditorium Riverside Terrace Historic Wine Cellar Breakaway Rooms Simonsberg Stellenberg Helderberg 2 rooms combined 3 rooms combined Courtyard Manor House De Clerque Van Lievens Reynolds

Theatre

Classroom

U-shape

Boardroom

Cabaret

Herringbone

Banquet

Banquet Dancefloor

Cocktail

370 100

210 80

-

-

180 80

200 -

70 60 250 90 80

180 -

150 50 400 120 150

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 60 100 160 250

100 130 200

60 60 60 100 200 400

-

-

-

12 22

-

-

-

-

-

700 30 20 -

30 15 -

20 10 10

20 10 10

30 -

24 -

30 20 -

-

-

-

-

-

12

-

-

-

-

-

Amphitheatre Rooms

Amphitheatre Meeting Room 1 Meeting Room 2 Meeting Room 3 Spier Hotel Boardroom

+27 (0)21 809 1100 R310 Lynedoch Road Stellenbosch

Spier Wine Farm

info@spier.co.za

@SpierWineFarm

www.spier.co.za

spierwinefarm

THE MEETINGS & EVENT PLANNER 2021 •

33

VENUES

MEETING SPACES 5 MAX PAX 1 500

V&A WATERFRONT, WESTERN CAPE

IDEALLY SITUATED in Cape Town’s V&A Waterfront, the 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. All Covid-19 regulations are strictly adhered to.

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

MEETING AND EVENT SPACES When it comes to iconic venues in Cape Town, the Two Oceans Aquarium ticks every box. This versatile, otherworldly events facility thrills without fail, adding unexpected dimensions of fun, fish and glamour to every event. Whether you’re planning a large, corporate year-end function, an intimate strategic session, a multiday conference, or a showstopping gala dinner, the Aquarium’s experienced banqueting

34 • www.theplanner.guru

team takes care of your every need – from setup and safety to sustainable catering – while you sit back and enjoy the backdrop of swaying kelp forests, serene stingrays and majestic sharks.

While the magical setting is beautiful enough in its own right, the Aquarium can nonetheless be transformed into settings fit for any event with the tasteful and creative application of decor and styling. Health and safety protocols are strictly adhered to according to the latest government regulations.

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. The flexible offering is freshly prepared on-site by a team of seasoned professionals and is halaal certified by the Muslim Judicial Council of South Africa.

VENUES VENUES AND CAPACITIES Room Name

Avenue (day and night) Tranquillity (day and night)

Cinema

Cocktail

Seated w/ Dance Floor

Seated w/o Dance Floor

Schoolroom

Boardroom

U-shape

350

650

300

350

220

-

-

-

-

-

25

-

24

-

I&J Ocean Exhibit (18:00 onwards)

200

350

160

180

-

-

-

Predator Exhibit (18:00 onwards)

100

250

90

120

-

-

-

Entire Aquarium (18:00 onwards)

-

1 500

-

-

-

-

-

+27 (0)21 418 3823 Dock Road, V&A Waterfront,

functions@aquarium.co.za

Cape Town

www.aquarium.co.za THE MEETINGS & EVENT PLANNER 2021 •

35

DUBBED “AFRICA’S RICHEST SQUARE MILE”, SANDTON HAS BECOME ONE OF THE CONTINENT’S BUSIEST BUSINESS DISTRICTS. IT IS ALSO HOME TO THE LEONARDO; WITH 55 FLOORS AND STANDING AT A HEIGHT OF 223 M, IT IS AFRICA’S TALLEST SKYSCRAPER.

36 • www.theplanner.guru

VENUES

MEETING SPACES 2 MAX PAX 130 ACCOMMODATION 63 ROOMS

UMZUMBE, KWAZULU-NATAL

PUMULA BEACH HOTEL, with its stunning views of the Indian Ocean, provides one of the best seaside locations on the KwaZulu-Natal South Coast.

Charming and intimate, it provides the highest levels of personal service and excellent cuisine.

Besides the obvious attractions of never-ending golden beaches, protected bathing, rock pools and excellent fishing opportunities, nearby amenities include a selection of well-known golf courses, tennis courts, deep-sea fishing charters, ocean safaris, hiking trails and much more.

LOCATION Situated 100 km south of Durban and surrounded by indigenous coastal vegetation, Pumula Beach Hotel is an ideal venue for relaxed, stress-free conferences.

MEETING AND EVENT SPACES Conference rooms at Pumula are fully airconditioned with fixed screens. Available equipment includes overhead and data projectors, flip charts (with paper and pens) and a podium. Notepads and pens for delegates are also included.

ACCOMMODATION Pumula Beach Hotel has 34 family rooms, of which 25 are interleading. In addition, it has 29 double or twin rooms with sea or garden views. All rooms come standard with a TV and guests have access to an ocean-facing saltwater swimming and paddling pool, beach sand volleyball court, nine-hole adventure golf course, table tennis, trampolines, ladies’ bar, original pub, and a TV and games room.

VENUES AND CAPACITIES Room Name

Intshambili Amawele Lawn Dimensions

U-shape

50 40

Double U-shape

70 55

Schoolroom

Cinema

100 120 120 130 28 m x 20 m

Round Tables (10-12 pax)

90 90

CATERING Pumula Beach Hotel can tailor menus to give your conference, event or team-building experience that special touch. It can also provide catering for gala dinners, spit braais and traditional potjiekos.

TEAM BUILDING Pumula can help you arrange specialist product launches or exotic themed evenings to complement your event. Extras such as competitions, pub evenings, discos, magicians, bands, comedians and just about anything your heart desires can be arranged with the assistance of Pumula’s dedicated team.

+27 (0)39 684 6717 67 Steve Pitts Road, Umzumbe, KwaZulu-Natal

conference@pumulabeachhotel.co.za

Pumula-Beach-Hotel-South-Coast-155908721132644

www.pumulabeachhotel.com

THE MEETINGS & EVENT PLANNER 2021 •

37

VENUES

MEETING SPACES 32 MAX PAX 20 000 ACCOMMODATION OFF-SITE

DURBAN, KWAZULU-NATAL

INCORPORATING THE DURBAN International Convention Centre (Durban ICC), the Durban ICC Arena and Durban Exhibition Centre, the 112 000 m2 Durban ICC is renowned for its fivestar service facilities, state-of-the-art technology, mouth-watering African cuisine, and of course its unique location on Durban’s sun-drenched shores.

Durban ICC prides itself on delivering an experience with innovative solutions geared to delivering on its clients’ objectives and expectations in a sustainable and proudly African way.

The Durban ICC Arena has full technical capacity for live broadcasts as well as house lighting suitable for TV production filming. The Centre is fully Wi-Fi enabled and offers connectivity to 8 000 users concurrently.

The Durban ICC complex has six on-site generators, which can fully power the centre in the event of power disruptions.

The five-star graded facility has been voted Africa's Leading Meetings and Conference Centre 17 times by the World Travel Awards and is ISO 9001, 14001, 22000 and OHSAS 18001 certified.

LOCATION

ACCOMMODATION

Durban ICC is located in Durban Central, only 30 minutes away from King Shaka International Airport, which acts as a gateway to a broad range of international routes. Both the airport and Durban ICC are easily accessible via high-speed road links.

As a cosmopolitan city and major conferencing destination, Durban offers a broad range of hotels to suit every budget. With some 3 600 hotel rooms within a short walking distance of Durban ICC and a Hilton Hotel on its doorstep, your delegate accommodation requirements are sure to be met.

MEETINGS AND EVENTS

CATERING

Durban ICC offers the largest flat-floor, columnfree, multipurpose event space in Africa.

Durban ICC’s in-house catering team offers you culinary flavours that have captured local and

38 • www.theplanner.guru

international tastes of the world. With capacities ranging from 10 to 5 000 pax, no event is too small or too big for the venue’s experienced team.

Additionally, Durban offers a wide choice of restaurants and is an excellent destination to sample a tantalising array of fresh seafood, offering delectable prawns, calamari and the catch of the day, in addition to many other dishes that will tempt the taste buds.

The cuisine is as varied as the shopping in Durban, from fast-food outlets and roadside vendors offering everything – including the legendary bunny chow, a half loaf of bread crammed with curry – through to sushi bars, pavement cafes, friendly pubs to the traditional South African braai.

VENUES VENUES AND CAPACITIES Room Name

Hall 1 & 2 Hall 1AB, 2ABFH

Banquet (Plated)

1 900 1 200

Hall 1, 2 & 3 Hall 2CDE, 3, 4 & 5 Hall 3BC, 4, 5 & 6 Hall 1,2,3,4,5 & 6 Hall 3BC& 4 & 5AB Hall 4AD & 5A Meeting Room 11, 12, 21 & 22 Room Name

DEC Hall 1 DEC Hall 2

2 800 2 960 2 600 4 460 1 260 580 200 Banquet (Plated)

DEC Hall 6 DEC Coast of Dreams DEC Mystrals

45 Bram Fischer Road, Durban, 4000

3 390 1 390 300 300 70

Durban ICC Banquet (Buffet)

1 500 1 000

2 200 2 200 2 000 3 500 940 460 140

Cocktail

Schoolroom

Theatre

5 000 5 600 5 500 8 600 2 700 1 350 300

2 800 3 260 3 120 4 960 1 660 760 150

5 800 6 360 5 860 9 660 2 868 1 310 350

3 500 2 200

Durban Exhibition Centre Banquet (Buffet) Cocktail

2 590 1 080

4 500 2 800

130 200 40

350 430 190

@DurbanICC

+27 (0)31 360 1000

1 900 1 200

4 000 2 400

Schoolroom

Theatre

170 170 60

370 350 100

3 430 2 050

sales@icc.co.za

5 500 2 950

www.icc.co.za

THE MEETINGS & EVENT PLANNER 2021 •

39

VENUES

MEETING SPACES 16 MAX PAX 1 400 ACCOMMODATION 152 HOTEL

CENTRAL DRAKENSBERG, KWAZULU-NATAL

OVER THE YEARS, the 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 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 pax, banqueting for 950 pax at round tables, as well as four new boardrooms.

Other venues include the Sentinel Room, which seats up to 1 000 pax; the Monks Cowl Centre, seating up to 550 pax; the Summit Room, seating up to 400 pax; and the more intimate venues suitable for between 20 to 150 pax.

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

40 • www.theplanner.guru

ROOMS + 91 CHALETS

accommodation. The 152 hotel bedrooms are made up of double/twin rooms, family rooms and various suites, all with wellappointed 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 pax 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, a comfortable change room 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.

VENUES VENUES AND CAPACITIES Room Name

Buttress Sentinel Monks Cowl Summit Ondini Zunckels Turret Injasuti Ithaba Sterkhorn Amphlet Greys Pass Dragons Back Eastmans Ships Prow Cathkin Arms Bar Extension

U-shape

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

Double U-shape

140 140 65 -

Schoolroom

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

Herringbone

200 130 -

Cinema

1 400 1 000 500 435 200 200 130 60 110 50 105 20 20 20 20 125

Banquet

950 660 300 260 120 80 50 60 30 -

Cocktail

120 -

+27 (0)36 468 8000

ChampagneSportsResort

1397 Winterton Road, R600 Central Berg,

conferences@champagnesportsresort.com

@champagnesports

Cathkin Valley

www.champagnesportsresort.com

@champagnesportsresort THE MEETINGS & EVENT PLANNER 2021 •

41

CHIMPANZEE, HIPPOPOTAMUS, GIRAFFE, GORILLA, WILDEBEEST AND ZEBRA ARE JUST SOME OF SPECIES OF WILDLIFE ENDEMIC ONLY TO AFRICA.

A Convergence of Business

and Adventure

Didima Conference Centre & Wedding Venue, Cathedral Peak, Maloti-Drakensberg Park World Heritage Site: (036) 488 8000 Ntshondwe Conference Centre & Wedding Venue, Ithala Game Reserve: (034) 983 2540

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.

The Perfect Wedding

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

Dream, travel,

Discover

Online bo o kin g : bookings.kznwildlife.com

Web: www.kznwildlife.com

Conservation, Partnerships & Ecotourism

VENUES

MEETING SPACES 5 MAX PAX 900 ACCOMMODATION 396 ROOMS

MZAMBA BEACH, EASTERN CAPE

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 an experienced team.

All conference rooms are equipped with wall-to-wall carpeting, air conditioning and independently controlled lights with dimming capabilities. Should your function require it,

44 • www.theplanner.guru

access to necessary audiovisual 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 Mzamba 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 VENUES AND CAPACITIES Room Name

Banquet Buffet

Banquet Served

Boardroom

Cinema

Cocktail

Dance Buffet

Schoolroom

U-shape

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

-

-

-

-

Tropical Nights Auditorium

+27 (0)39 305 9111 Main Bizana Road, 5.2 km south of

wcs.banqueting@suninternational.com

Port Edward, Eastern Cape

www.suninternational.com/wild-coast-sun THE MEETINGS & EVENT PLANNER 2021 •

45

VENUES

MEETING SPACES 1 MAX PAX 800 ACCOMMODATION 154 ROOMS

UMHLANGA, KWAZULU-NATAL

SET IN THE LUSH, green hills of KwaZuluNatal, 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.

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.

LOCATION

ACCOMMODATION

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

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 three-star Sibaya Lodge and the luxury Royal Sibaya Hotel, each offering the highest level of service, with genuine African hospitality aimed at exceeding your expectations.

Take your event from special to unforgettable at the Imbizo Conference Centre. This facility offers unmatched flexibility, variety and costeffectiveness. Imbizo provides all the amenities required for events. The infrastructure can be transformed into any configuration with endless customisations to suit all event types, from lifestyle exhibitions to launches and gala

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.

CATERING

VENUES AND CAPACITIES Room Name

Banquet Buffet

Banquet Served

Cinema

Cocktails

Dance Buffet

Dance Served

Schoolroom

800

800

1 800

1 000

800

800

1 000

Sun Park

+27 (0)31 580 5000 Sibaya Drive, uMhlanga Rocks, 4320,

sibayabanqueting@suninternational.com

KwaZulu-Natal

www.suninternational.com/sibaya

46 • www.theplanner.guru

VENUES

MEETING SPACES 10 MAX PAX 600 ACCOMMODATION 60 ROOMS

POLOKWANE, LIMPOPO

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.

MEETING AND EVENT SPACES Meropa is a comprehensive conferencing facility for world-class business and leisure events. Boasting a state-of-the-art conference centre, along with a wide range of fully equipped venues, it is perfectly suited for any occasion.

VENUES AND CAPACITIES Room Name

Meropa A+B Meropa A or B Meropa A1/A2 or B1/B2 Ndhumba ACCOMMODATION Lugundhu/Mugubo Meropa Hotel in Polokwane invites Vele guests to escape to a world of Jembe Tavern Moroccan-inspired grandeur and exotic Meropa Gardens delight. Designed to ensure superior Jembe Gardens comfort and convenience, Meropa Hotel is set to become one of the most highly Cultural Village

Min

200 50 25 80 500 100 100

Banquet

400 150 60 10 20 20 100 1 500 200 200

Cocktail

500 250 100 10 30 200 3 000 250 300

Cinema

600 300 150 30 25 100 2 000 100 -

Outdoor Events

4 000 500 500

Schoolroom

400 200 80 -

U-shape

150 100 60 9 20 15 -

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.

CATERING 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.

+27 (0)15 290 5400 Plot 59, Sterkloop, Roodepoort Road,

meropa.banqueting@suninternational.com

Polokwane, 0700, Limpopo

www.suninternational.com/meropa THE MEETINGS & EVENT PLANNER 2021 •

47

VENUES

MEETING SPACES 3 MAX PAX 70 ACCOMMODATION 90 ROOMS

KIMBERLEY, NORTHERN CAPE

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-ofthe-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. This highly versatile venue with its muted tones provides the perfect canvas for intimate occasions and celebratory events.

The boardrooms offer a professional and inspiring environment, suited to smaller groups. They are ideal to host an executive board meeting, a product launch or a team get-together.

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 Banquet Room Name Boardroom Cinema Served

Flamingo 60 Main Hall Teal & Sandpiper 8 Boardrooms *The capacities listed are in accordance with government's Covid-19 regulations. +27 (0)53 830 2600

N12 Phakamile Mabije Road,

marthinus.nortje@suninternational.com

Kimberley, 8301, Northern Cape

www.suninternational.com/flamingo

48 • www.theplanner.guru

60 -

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.

VENUES AND CAPACITIES Room Name

Rio Room 1 Rio Room 2

Rio Room 3 Rio Suites Rio Ballroom Big Top Arena Afrisun Boardroom Mardi Gras Theatre Welcome Centre Lounge Lapa

Banquet

Boardroom

Cinema

Cocktail

Schoolroom

30 30

U-shape 30 30

60 240 330 700 250 30 80

30 120 250 700 18 200 35 -

60 300 400 2 500 500 50 -

60 200 400 2 500 400 50 150

30 120 250 700 200 15 -

30 120 250 700 200 35 -

60 60

30 30

60 60

60 60

MEETING AND EVENT SPACES Giving your event the elegant, professional edge, Carnival City has a selection of 10 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 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 funfilled 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 Indian, seafood or burgers.

+27 (0)11 898 7000 Corner Century and Elsburg Road,

carnivalcity@suninternational.com

Brakpan, 1540, Gauteng

www.suninternational.com/carnival-city THE MEETINGS & EVENT PLANNER 2021 •

49

VENUES

MEETING SPACES 11 MAX PAX 2 500 ACCOMMODATION 105 ROOMS

BRAKPAN, GAUTENG

VENUES

MEETING SPACES 4 MAX PAX 120 ACCOMMODATION 97 ROOMS

WORCESTER, WESTERN CAPE

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.

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.

MEETING AND EVENT SPACES Golden Valley has a number of excellent meeting rooms and conference facilities in Worcester for

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

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.

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

VENUES AND CAPACITIES Room Name

Banquet Buffet

Banquet Served

Boardroom

Cinema

Cocktail

Dance Buffet

Dance Served

Schoolroom

U-shape

Meeting Room 1

40

40

20

60

-

-

-

40

30

Meeting Room 2

40

40

20

60

-

-

-

40

30

Meeting Room 3 (1+2)

90

90

50

120

100

80

80

60

70

-

-

8

Meeting Room 4

-

+27 (0)23 348 7200 Between Brandwag and Roux Roads,

goldenvalleyinfo@suninternational.com

Worcester, 6849, Western Cape

www.suninternational.com/golden-valley

50 • www.theplanner.guru

-

-

VENUES

MEETING SPACES 8 MAX PAX 6 866 ACCOMMODATION 176 ROOMS

CAPE TOWN, WESTERN CAPE

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.

LOCATION Located close to Cape Town city centre, 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.

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

GrandWest is the perfect setting for prestigious large-scale 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.

ACCOMMODATION 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.

DINING GrandWest is home to a great selection of restaurants. From family-friendly options to sophisticated restaurants, you’ll find an eatery to suit your palate.

VENUES AND CAPACITIES Venue

Market Hall Good Hope Suite 1 Good Hope Suite 2 Jackson Hall The Roxy Revue Bar Venue

SunExhibits Sun Park Grand Arena

Boardroom

Buffet

Schoolroom

Cocktail

Set Menu

Theatre

U-shaped

25 25 -

550 35 35 -

600 58 58 -

900 85 85 70 40

600 50 50 -

850 75 75 160

25 25 -

Standing Concert

Seated Concert

Schoolroom

Cocktail

Banquet

Boxing

Theatre

1 800 2 800 6 866

1 520 1 650 5 048

1500

1 000 1 400 2 500

700 1 100 1 000

1 536 -

2 028

+27 (0)21 505 7777 1 Jakes Gerwel Drive, Goodwood,

grandwest@suninternational.com

Cape Town, 7460, Western Cape

www.suninternational.com/grandwest THE MEETINGS & EVENT PLANNER 2021 •

51

VENUES

MEETING SPACES 4 MAX PAX 250

BLOEMFONTEIN, FREE STATE

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.

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 bank. Whether it’s 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.

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.

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.

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

VENUES AND CAPACITIES Room Name

Diamonds Lil’s Eiffel & Versailles Rooms Windmill A & B

Banquet Buffet

-

Banquet Served

25 150

Boardroom

Cinema

Cocktail

-

40 250

180 25 200

Dance Buffet

-

+27 (0)51 410 2000 Corner Jan Pierewiet Avenue and N1 Highway

banqueting.windmill@suninternational.com

Pellissier, 9332, Musgrave, Bloemfontein, Free State

www.suninternational.com/windmill

52 • www.theplanner.guru

Dance Served

-

Schoolroom

U-shape

30 170

25 90

VENUES

MEETING SPACES 5 MAX PAX 300 ACCOMMODATION 329 ROOMS

CAPE TOWN, WESTERN CAPE

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.

MEETING AND EVENT SPACES 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, 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.

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.

ACCOMMODATION Location, location, location: if you are looking

for a place to stay in Cape Town, The 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 Mother City’s best-kept secret.

CATERING The 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

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

32

32

24

50

20

50

-

-

24

18

Business Centre Boardroom Pre-Function Boardroom 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

+27 (0)21 406 5000 Quay 6, Victoria & Alfred Waterfront,

tbhgroup@suninternational.com

Cape Town, 8001, Western Cape

www.suninternational.com/table-bay THE MEETINGS & EVENT PLANNER 2021 •

53

VENUES

PORT ELIZABETH, EASTERN CAPE

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 age-old 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.

ACCOMMODATION Voted one of the Top 25 Hotels in South Africa in the TripAdvisor 2015 Travellers’ Choice Awards, the Boardwalk offers luxury accommodation in the heart of Port Elizabeth. Many of the lavish hotel rooms enjoy unrivalled views of the Indian Ocean. Situated close to the beach with sheltered rock pools, scuba diving and top surfing spots, 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.

54 • www.theplanner.guru

MEETING SPACES 5 MAX PAX 1 600 ACCOMMODATION 140 ROOMS

VENUES VENUES AND CAPACITIES Room Name

Tsitsikama Ironwood Redwood Stinkwood Yellowwood 1 & 2

Banquet Buffet

800 -

Banquet Served

1 100 -

Boardroom

Cinema

Cocktail

Dance Buffet

15 15 15 10

1 600 30 30 30 -

1 300 30 30 30 -

700 -

Dance Served

900 -

Schoolroom

U-shape

1 000 12 12 12 12

12 12 12 8

+27 (0)41 507 7777 Beach Road, Summerstrand,

conventions.boardwalk@suninternational.com

Port Elizabeth, Eastern Cape, 6019

www.suninternational.com/boardwalk THE MEETINGS & EVENT PLANNER 2021 •

55

VENUES

RUSTENBURG, NORTH WEST

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 options 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.

56 • www.theplanner.guru

MEETING SPACES 36 MAX PAX 6 000 ACCOMMODATION 1 310 ROOMS

VENUES VENUES AND CAPACITIES Room Name

Baratu Chawa Inzer Juveni Kings Ballroom 1 Kings Ballroom 2 Kings Ballroom 1+2 Konza Kratan Linus Linus & Juveni Lupata Manica Monomotapa (Exec Boardroom) Multipurpose Venue Mur Rajun Samo Seers Court 1 Seers Court 2 Seers Court 1+2 Sena Shandru Shukan Sofala The Sunpark The Superbowl Warriors Hall 1 Warriors Hall 3 Warriors Hall 2 Warriors Hall 1+2 Warriors Hall 2+3 Warriors Hall 1+2+3 Zebe Zebe+Sena Zimbas

Banquet Buffet

Banquet Served

Boardroom

250 380 700 -

280 450 750 -

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

35 30 56 32 494 836 1 200 36 154 32 72 140 90

450 750 1 200 -

-220 350 650 --

250 380 700 -

24 21 18 273 468 858 24 63 18 42 63 42

16 14 12 182 312 572 16 42 12 28 42 28

12 12 8 60 68 180 12 26 8 20 26 24

-

-

18

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

250 90 90 180 900 1 100 120 150 110 240 270 410 -

250 100 100 200 1 100 1 200 140 170 130 270 300 460 -

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

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

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

250 60 60 150 850 1 000 90 120 80 210 230 380 -

250 90 90 180 -

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

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

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

Cinema Cocktail Dance Buffet

Dance Served

900 1 100 120 150 110 240 270 410 -

Schoolroom (x3) Schoolroom (x2)

U-shape

+27 (0)14 557 1000 R556, Rustenburg, North West

scenq@suninternational.com www.suninternational.com/sun-city THE MEETINGS & EVENT PLANNER 2021 •

57

VENUES

MEETING SPACES 22 MAX PAX 420 ACCOMMODATION 281 ROOMS

SANDTON, GAUTENG

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.

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 one of the largest such venues in business-centered Sandton, the hotel offers stateof-the-art facilities and catering for functions of any size. It also has private meeting rooms.

ACCOMMODATION

LOCATION

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 awardwinning accommodation brings business and pleasure together in calming and comfortable surrounds.

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.

The Maslow offers catering to functions of up to 420 delegates.

58 • www.theplanner.guru

CATERING

VENUES VENUES AND CAPACITIES Room Name

Ballroom (1+2) Ballroom (2+3) Business Centre (1+2) 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

Schoolroom x2

Schoolroom x3

Cabaret

U-shape

Cocktail

160 200 100 80 300 80 120 50 50

120 156 72 60 216 60 96 36 36

168 204 100 84 288 84 120 50 50

96 120 72 48 168 48 72 36 36

66 78 62 20 33 111 20 33 45 20 31 31

200 250 120 100 350 100 150 60 60

Dance Floor

100 150 50 200 50 100 -

Cinema

Boardroom

240 300 200 120 420 120 180 100 100

8 8 12 8 12 8 12 12 -

+27 (0)10 226 4600 Corner Grayston Drive & Rivonia Road,

maslow@suninternational.com

Sandton, 2031, Gauteng

www.suninternational.com/maslow THE MEETINGS & EVENT PLANNER 2021 •

59

VENUES

MEETING SPACES 18 MAX PAX 10 500 ACCOMMODATION 238 ROOMS

PRETORIA, GAUTENG

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

60 • www.theplanner.guru

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 boasts spacious facilities that can accommodate events large or small. Time Square hosts 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.

VENUES VENUES AND CAPACITIES Room Name

Diamond 1 Diamond 2 Diamond 1/2 Jade Emerald 1 Emerald 2 Emerald 3 Emerald 1+2 Emerald 2+3 Emerald 1+2+3

Meeting Meeting Meeting Meeting Meeting Banquet Banquet Cabaret Cabaret Dance Cocktail Boardroom U-shape Cinema Schoolroom (x3) Schoolroom (x2) Buffet Served Buffet Served Buffet 12 16 16 16 32 32 52

12 12 12 32 32 48

175 175 500 32 32 32 64 64 96

Moonstone 16 10 39 Garnet 18 10 39 Quartz 18 10 39 HOTEL 12TH FLOOR Lobby & Transit Lounge 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)

HOTEL – FIRST FLOOR Pool Terrace & Bar (on request) 175 140 150 160 175 140 150 160 400 270 400 400 27 18 27 18 27 18 54 36 60 50 54 36 60 50 84 36 80 70 HOTEL – SECOND FLOOR 18 12 18 12 18 12 -

Dance Served Shaped

200 200 400 20 20 20 60 60 80

100 100 260 48 48 56

132 132 300 48 48 64

120 120 300 30 30 50

160 160 400 30 30 50

-

-

-

-

-

ARENA Concert Seated

8 500

Concert Standing

10 500

Banquet

1 300 LOWER ARENA

Topaz 1

16

Topaz 2

16

Topaz 1+2

32

0860 846 377 209 Aramis Avenue, Waterkloof Glen

tsqmeetings@suninternational.com

Ext 2, 0181, Pretoria, Gauteng

www.suninternational.com/time-square THE MEETINGS & EVENT PLANNER 2021 •

61

ACCORDING TO ICCA STATISTICS, CAPE TOWN HOSTS THE HIGHEST NUMBER OF INTERNATIONAL ASSOCIATION MEETINGS IN AFRICA, MAKING IT THE MICE CAPITAL OF THE CONTINENT.

62 • www.theplanner.guru

THE MEETINGS & EVENT PLANNER 2021 •

63

FOR THE ULTIMATE accommodation experience, Hilton Sandton features amenities for both business and leisure travellers alike.

On-site features include an all-day restaurant, a state-of-the-art business centre, meeting facilities, fitness centre, outdoor pool and tennis court; and if you still can’t find what you’re looking for, the hotel provides complimentary shuttles to both Sandton City and the Gautrain station.

LOCATION Situated in the Sandton business district in the heart of Johannesburg, Hilton Sandton’s convenient location offers guests easy access to large shopping centres, main banking institutions and the Johannesburg Stock Exchange.

MEETINGS AND EVENTS Hilton Sandton offers distinctive spaces in a prime location for conferences and events. Each of its nine meeting rooms is completely customisable and features state-of-the-art technology. For added convenience, meeting facilities are located on the same floor as the full-service business centre, restaurants and bar.

VENUES

MEETING SPACES 12 MAX PAX 900 ACCOMMODATION 329 ROOMS

SANDTON, GAUTENG

VENUES AND CAPACITIES Room Name

Boardroom U-shape Theatre Classroom Cabaret Banquet

Hilton Ballroom Ballroom 1 Ballroom 2 Ballroom 3 Kwena Suite Kwena 1 Kwena 2 Li-duba Tau Umkombe Thema Boardroom Impala Dzimba

Dinner Dance

Cocktail

-

-

900

450

270

450

380

1 000

40 70 50 40 20 20 30 30 30 16 14 10 10

50 70 50 35 15 15 30 30 28 12 10 10

200 300 200 100 30 30 80 80 80 20 15 15

90 150 100 60 20 20 40 50 40 15 10 10

50 96 72 42 12 12 30 35 30 -

100 160 120 60 20 20 50 60 50 20 15 15

80 120 70 40 30 40 30 -

180 300 240 100 30 35 75 80 80 25 20 20

ACCOMMODATION All Hilton Sandton’s guestrooms feature stylish furnishings and generous amenities. Guests who stay in the Royal Suite or one of the six Terrace Suites on the Executive Floor can enjoy exclusive access to the Executive Lounge. Hilton also offers non-smoking and four accessible guestrooms.

Guestroom facilities include LCD televisions and satellite channels with radio, video-on-demand and Wi-Fi. CATERING Sample a multicultural all-day dining experience at Tradewinds Restaurant & Bar. For the best of fusion flavour, the Lotus Teppanyaki & Sushi Bar offers a variety of popular sushi dishes, all carefully created

by Hilton Sandton’s sushi master.

For an intimate get-together with friends or a quality corporate team-building experience, join the hotel’s Sushi School on Friday nights.

138 Rivonia Road, Sandton, Gauteng 2196 hilton sandton HiltonSandton

+27 (0)11 322 1888 jnbsa_bqsales@hilton.com sandton.hilton.com THE MEETINGS & EVENT PLANNER 2021 •

65

VENUES

MEETING SPACES 24 MAX PAX 800 ACCOMMODATION 258 ROOMS

FOURWAYS, GAUTENG

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

LOCATION

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.

CATERING

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.

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.

MEETING AND EVENT SPACES

ACTIVITIES 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.

The Inverroche Gin School located at Indaba Hotel is an educational and exciting journey through the endless world of gin. Life is a journey, and so is creating a special bottle of gin. With your presenter being an able guide and a knowledgeable expert, you will be taken back in time to this spirit’s origin hundreds of years ago all the way to the great popularity it enjoys today.

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.

ACCOMMODATION The esteemed Indaba Hotel is the ideal accommodation option for travellers who crave a bit of tranquility during a visit to the bustling city.

VENUES GAUTENG & INLAND VENUES AND CAPACITIES Room Name

Auditorium 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

Cinema

264 20 60 80 120 30 30 30 70 200 800 1 000 200 -

Classroom

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

U-shape

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

Boardroom

10 20 25 20 20 -

Banquet

150 500 750 100 100

Cocktail

36 180 700 1 000 150 130

Dinner/banquet

120 450 450 70

c/o William Nicol Drive & Pieter Wenning Road,

IndabaFourways

+27 (0)11 840 6600

Fourways, Johannesburg

IndabaHotel

indaba@indabahotel.co.za www.indabahotel.co.za THE MEETINGS & EVENT PLANNER 2021 •

67

COMBINE A BUSH experience with a boat cruise for your team or clients and you have the makings of a great day out in Harties.

Harties Harbour invites you on a cruise like no other, where you can experience it all.

The Shingelani Bush Camp is proving to be the ultimate bush conferencing venue for up to 100 delegates, where guests can enjoy the privacy and exclusivity that the camp offers. Conferences often end up with an impromptu braai and drinks around the camp’s boma fire, or sundowners while watching the wildlife come graze right in front of the camp. This is Africa at its finest.

VENUES

3 100 19

MEETING SPACES MAX PAX ACCOMMODATION

HARTBEESPOORT DAM, NORTH WEST

MEETING AND EVENT SPACES Delight guests with variety during their visit. Whether it’s a bush or water experience that you’re after, Harties Harbour offers it all.

ACCOMMODATION With gorgeous views and its warm natural finishings, guests will feel cosy and at home in one of the 19 rooms at the La Dolce Vita Guest House.

VENUES AND CAPACITIES Venue

Bush Camp Lapa

Max Pax

100

Boma

40

Danny Buoy Boat

100

To Ro Ya Me Boat

38

CATERING

LOCATION

Harties Harbour provides a range of catering options suited to conferencing, events and cruises, and will work with you to create the tastiest menus to tantalise taste buds across the board.

“Close to the city yet out of this world”, Harties Harbour is situated just on the doorstep of Gauteng, making it the perfect venue to host corporate breakfasts, lunches and evening events.

Harties Harbour has partnered with Impact Adventures to provide an array of team-building experiences.

TEAM BUILDING

https://www.facebook.com/HartiesBoatCo

+27 (0)12 253 5045 / 5949 | +27 (0)82 975 3468

Kommando Nek Reserve,

@boatHarties

events@hartiesharbour.co.za

Simon Bekker Avenue, Hartbeespoort Dam

@hartiesboatcompany

www.hartiesharbour.co.za

68 • www.theplanner.guru

VENUES

MEETING SPACES 4 MAX PAX 60 ACCOMMODATION

MADIKWE, NORTH WEST

30 LUXURY CHALETS

BUILT IN 1995, the privately owned Tau Game Lodge overlooks a large waterhole, which attracts a variety of game species. The lodge was designed to reflect its surroundings and makes use of the natural textures and resources wherever possible.

Tau Game Lodge is ideal for an authentic wildlife experience, wedding or conference.

LOCATION Tau Game Lodge is located in Madikwe Game Reserve, North West – 28 km from Botswana’s capital, Gaborone, 240 km from Sun City, and 380 km from Johannesburg.

An airstrip offers easy access into the reserve, with daily flights scheduled to and from O.R. Tambo International Airport, which can be booked by the lodge.

MEETING AND EVENT SPACES Tau’s convention centre is situated within walking distance of the lodge and can seat up to 60 pax, under the current Covid-19 regulations. High-quality equipment has been installed in the three sub-halls and all systems have been integrated and configured to maximise performance. The centre offers specialist equipment designed with simple plug-and-play options for all presentation needs.

ACCOMMODATION Tau offers accommodation for up to 60 people.

The 30 luxury thatched chalets are spread out in U-formation on either side of the lodge and each chalet is equipped with both air-conditioning and ceiling fans, a tea and coffee station as well as a minibar, and is suitable for accommodating two adults.

All chalets have their own wooden deck, which allows one to experience the bush in privacy, and are equipped with an en-suite bathroom and openair shower.

VENUES AND CAPACITIES* Room Name

Tau Conference Centre

Cinema

Schoolroom

Banquet

Cocktail

U-shape

Boardroom

60

60

60

60

60

60

*All arrangements currently limited to 60 pax due to Covid-19.

CATERING Sumptuous meals are served around the boma or in the dining room, with the sights, smells and sounds of the bush to tantalise your senses, and warm African hospitality to make your experience a truly memorable one.

TEAM BUILDING The Madikwe Reserve boasts 27 species of mammals, including the big five, black and white rhino, cheetah and wild dog, and is home to 250 different bird species. Let your expert guide take you on a game-viewing drive in an open 4x4 vehicle to let you experience the reserve’s many wonders.

Tau’s South African Spa and Conference Venue is ideal for its facilities, privacy and beautiful surroundings, which provide your business team with an additional team-building opportunity in a relaxed and luxurious environment.

+27 (0)11 466 8715/7 Madikwe Game Reserve, North West

taugame@mweb.co.za

Tau Game Lodge

taugamelodge.co.za THE MEETINGS & EVENT PLANNER 2021 •

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VENUES

MEETING SPACES 11 MAX PAX 1 000 ACCOMMODATION 133 ROOMS

WHITE RIVER, MPUMALANGA

A BEAUTIFUL, TRANQUIL country estate known for its great food, comfortable accommodation, superb facilities and immaculate gardens, Ingwenyama Conference & Sports Resort is a sought-after destination for those wanting to escape the city life. The resort is ideal for corporates seeking a unique business experience or for sporting teams looking for a pre-season camp facility.

Ingwenyama has hosted many dignitaries and VIPs in the past but its greatest accolade to date is the privilege of being one of 32 venues in South Africa to host a World Cup squad; during the 2010 FIFA World Cup, it hosted the Chilean national team.

LOCATION A mere 3.5 hour drive from the bustling city life of Johannesburg and Pretoria, Ingwenyama is nestled in the town of White River, Mpumalanga, on the outskirts of Nelspruit, otherwise known as the Lowveld.

MEETING AND EVENT SPACES Recognised as one of the top conferencing venues in Mpumalanga, Ingwenyama has strived to make the resort the perfect place for work and play. The venue has a hands-on approach and can assist with any type of event – conferences, board meetings and strategy, training or brainstorming sessions.

Ingwenyama has state-of-the-art conferencing facilities, with a fully equipped business centre.

The resort offers delicious catering options and its professional support personnel will make your next event impeccable and memorable.

ACCOMMODATION Ingwenyama Conference & Sports Resort has 133 stylishly decorated rooms, which come standard with all the modern facilities. Rooms are detached and semi-detached and located in clusters around the estate, all with balconies or patios leading out to the venue’s gardens, with ample open space to enjoy. There is secure parking close to all rooms, which are connected by landscaped pathways to the main hotel and conference buildings.

CATERING Ingwenyama offers a range of catering options for just about every occasion. In addition, its restaurant offers à la carte dining as well as a buffet that reflects the executive chef’s passion for the freshest seasonal produce available, and a wine list that will cater for most wine connoisseurs.

Enjoy a traditional menu at one of Ingwenyama’s outdoor venues, or an Asian stir-fry experience, or just a simple and quick bite to eat next to the pool.

TEAM BUILDING Ingwenyama specialises in team building and can custom design exercises to the wants and needs of every business's team, based on what they would like to achieve. Discuss your needs with Ingwenyama and they will suggest some great ideas and programmes to run with your team.

VENUES AND CAPACITIES Room Name

U-shape

Double U-shape

Schoolroom

Banquet

50 70 30 50 145 450 45 450 15 15 15

70 120 50 60 215 650 70 650 -

100 130 50 70 350 600 80 600 25 25 25

100 150 55 45 400 500 80 500 25 25 25

Chapel Ibhubesi Ingwe Inyathi Imvubu Indhlovu Sports Lapa Gym Breakaway Room 1 Breakaway Room 2 Breakaway Room 3

Cinema Cocktail

140 200 70 80 500 1 000 100 1 000 45 45 45

100 170 60 60 450 600 100 600 30 30 30

Plot 64, White River

+27 (0)13 750 7000

IngwenyamaConferenceandSportResort

gm@ingwenyama.co.za

IngwenyamaConfe

www.ingwenyama.co.za

70 • www.theplanner.guru

VENUES

MEETING SPACES 1 MAX PAX 50 ACCOMMODATION 22 ROOMS

WHITE RIVER, MPUMALANGA

VOTED ONE OF Africa’s Top 100 Boutique Hotels in 2018 by the Africa Travel Series, Country Boutique Hotel not only promises distinct quality and excellent service but also guarantees a memorable experience in style, grace and opulence.

Once the original homestead of a local avocado farming family, this charming hotel has been entirely designed to offer exacting travellers an atmosphere of modern baroque style, with ornate chandeliers and mirrors to create a luxurious haven. Chic boutique finishes, a sparkling swimming pool with poolside seats, and formal colonial gardens complete this gem.

LOCATION Situated approximately 10 minutes’ drive from Kruger Mpumalanga International Airport and in close proximity to both the Kruger National Park and Panorama Route, Country Boutique Hotel is perched on the outskirts of the quaint Lowveld in White River, Mpumalanga.

MEETING SPACES Country Boutique Hotel offers a beautiful and unique space that is ideal for smaller and more intimate functions. Wooden arched doors that open on to the garden allow ample natural daylight and fresh air to flood into the venue, which is fitted with state-of-theart equipment such as a data projector, flat-screen TV with AV cabling.

This space lends itself well to intimate events for around 50 pax, ranging from special occasion lunches and dinners to cocktail and tea parties, private functions or intimate weddings with a difference.

Hiring the entire boutique hotel on an exclusive basis is also an option.

ACCOMMODATION Country Boutique Hotel offers 22 elegantly appointed rooms. Boasting sleek materials and stark palettes with bold colour splashes, and each decorated with individual style, the hotel’s rooms provide exquisite views of the premises’ magnificently tranquil gardens, the country courtyard, or the breathtaking White River valley. Amenities include air conditioning, DStv and Wi-Fi, and guests can enjoy access to the pool, gym and shuttle services offered by the venue.

CATERING Country Boutique Hotel Restaurant offers exquisite dining with exciting menu options, while clients can pre-select a set menu prior to their event or enjoy working with the chef to create their own bespoke menus. The hotel also has an ‘open kitchen policy’ where guests and clients can pop in to chat to the chefs about meal requests for those with special and particular dietary requirements.

+27 (0)13 750 7010 Plot 64, White River, Mpumalanga

info@countryboutiquehotel.co.za

Country Boutique Hotel

www.countryboutiquehotel.co.za THE MEETINGS & EVENT PLANNER 2021 •

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VENUES

MEETING SPACES 8 MAX PAX 150 ACCOMMODATION 158 ROOMS

MASERU, LESOTHO

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.

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.

VENUES AND CAPACITIES Room Name

Pitso 1 Pitso 2 Pitso 1 + 2 Khanya Senqu Khotla Senqu + Khotla

Floor Space (m2)

212.8 108.5 321.3 43.13 54.37 55.28 109.65

Halfmoon U-shape Boardroom Banquet Cinema

40 30 100 8 8 20

45 30 100 10 10 15

20 50 120 15 15 30

50 50 120 15 15 30

100 50 150 15 15 30

Schoolroom

50 35 100 7 7 15

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.

72 • www.theplanner.guru

Hilton Road, Maseru, Lesotho

+266 2224 3000

Avani Lesotho Hotel & Casino

lesotho@avanihotels.com

www.avanihotels.com/en/lesotho

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-cochère to accommodate passenger vehicles and buses 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 the 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.

VENUES

MEETING SPACES 8 MAX PAX 140 ACCOMMODATION 173 ROOMS

WINDHOEK, NAMIBIA

VENUES AND CAPACITIES Room Name

Stratos Marula Camelthorn Fever Tree Wild Olive Mopane Black Thorn Sossusvlei Naukluft Suite

Floor Space (m2)

180 37.5 36 28 28 28 28 18 71.04

Classroom

U-shape

Boardroom

Banquet

Cocktail

80 15 15 12 12 84 30

80 15 20 15 15 96 27

60 18 20 18 15 15 18 -

120 114 48

140 25 25 20 20 140 40

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, 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.

129 Independence Avenue, Gustav Voigts Centre, Windhoek, Namibia Avani Windhoek Hotel & Casino

+264 61 280 0000

AvaniWindhoek

windhoek@avanihotels.com

avani_windhoek

www.avanihotels.com/en/windhoek THE MEETINGS & EVENT PLANNER 2021 •

73

VENUES

MEETING SPACES 10 MAX PAX 50 ACCOMMODATION 199 ROOMS

GABORONE, BOTSWANA

ENTRENCH YOURSELF in all things Botswana at Avani Gaborone Resort & Casino. 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

VENUES AND CAPACITIES Room Name

U-shape

Schoolroom

Theatre

Boardroom

Cocktail

H-square

Banquet

Conference 1

50

50

50

-

50

50

50

Conference 2

20

30

40

20

50

-

50

Conference 3

20

30

40

20

50

-

50

Conference 2+3

50

50

50

50

50

50

50

-

-

-

6

-

-

-

Seminar 1 Seminar 2

-

-

-

6

-

-

-

Seminar 3

-

-

10

6

-

-

-

Seminar 4

-

-

10

6

-

-

-

-

10

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.

Seminar 3+4

12

16

18

12

18

CATERING

Seminar 5

10

14

16

12

14

10

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 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 teambuilding exercises. The Centre Court and Mopane Gardens offer the best venue for outdoor parties, with further options available on 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.

74 • www.theplanner.guru

4727 Chuma Drive, Gaborone, Botswana Avani Gaborone Resort & Casino

+267 361 6000

AVANI_Gaborone

gaborone@avanihotels.com

avani_gaborone

www.avanihotels.com/en/gaborone

VENUES

MEETING SPACES 12 MAX PAX 250 ACCOMMODATION 212 ROOMS

LIVINGSTONE, ZAMBIA

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.

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.

LOCATION

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 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.

ACCOMMODATION

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

MEETING AND EVENT SPACES Make an impact with 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

CATERING With everything from indulgent African feasts to casual cafe snacks, you’ll find what you’re craving at Avani Victoria Falls Resort, where the selection of international flavours and local specialities will satisfy the most particular palate. Dining options include The Theatre of Food, Shungu Pool Terrace or dinner at The Boma for the ultimate African dining experience.

TEAM BUILDING Marvel at the majesty of the 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.

VENUES AND CAPACITIES Room Name

Zebra, Giraffe, Elephant & Lion Zebra Giraffe Elephant Lion Luangwa Kafue (Holding Room) Mukuni Boma David Livingstone Boma Kingfisher Boma

Conference

Banquet Banquet Banquet Dinner Dance Tables & Schoolroom Boardroom Cinema U-shape Cocktail Screen Sizes Round Served Round Buffet Served Benches

170

-

250

150

250

170

170

250

-

-

25 70 70 25 -

15 25 25 15 5 4 -

30 100 100 30 -

30 25 25 15 -

20 70 70 20 -

15 60 60 15 on request on request on request

60 60 -

20 100 100 10 250 70 250

200 50 170

235x180 cm 310x240 cm 300x245 cm 235x180 cm 55" LED TV -

Farm no. 393/M, Mosi-oa-Tunya Road, Livingstone, Zambia AVANI Victoria Falls

AvaniVicFalls

avani_victoriafalls

+260 213 321 122 or +27 (0)10 003 8979 victoriafalls@avanihotels.com www.avanihotels.com/en/victoria-falls THE MEETINGS & EVENT PLANNER 2021 •

75

SOCIAL MEDIA

LYSIS

ANA

THE

SERVICES

EXPLORE THE EVOLVED OFFERINGS OF SOME OF SOUTH AFRICA’S MOST POPULAR MICE SERVICE PROVIDERS.

SERVICES

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-toend 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

78 • www.theplanner.guru

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.

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

SERVICES GAUTENG & INLAND 10A View Street, Rietvalleirand, Pretoria

+27 (0)12 345 5278

leon@ephevents.co.za

www.ephevents.co.za

THE MEETINGS & EVENT PLANNER 2021 •

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SERVICES

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, and the Biltong, Sushi, Caviar, Bubbly, Macaron, Cake Pop,

+27 (0)83 447 4593

80 • www.theplanner.guru

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 well-trained, 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.

info@oysterking.co.za

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 needs change, so Oyster King finds the opportunity to change its concepts.

“Challenge us to make your next event unique and unexpected!”

www.oysterking.co.za

DID YOU KNOW??

Email is still the most effective way of communicating today!

With Hospitality Junxtion you can reach more than 50 000 potential buyers directly to their inbox. Contact us today and use this unique rate code for the special rate: HJ00002021 Segments: Professional Conference Organisers Standard Tour Operators Globally Government Corporate MICE

Email Marketing Only R1500 T’s & C’s Apply

The Team That Brings People Together... +27 (0) 65 847 8321 info@hospitalityjunxtion.co.za

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SERVICES

MARQUEE HIRE

DOWNINGS MARQUEE RENTALS is a solutionsdriven marquee rental and service company whose creativity, innovation and technical capability bring style, quality and vast expertise to every short- or longterm marquee and semi-permanent structure project.

WHAT THEY DO Downings offers a range of ready to use, highquality fabric structures that amplify any celebration, corporate event, commercial or industrial project.

Their rental products and services provide adaptable solutions to meet and solve the needs of customers in a variety of sectors. These include events, exhibitions and conferences, education, sports and recreation, warehousing, manufacturing, healthcare, aviation, construction, mining, disaster relief and more.

ACCOMPLISHMENTS AND ACCLAIM Downings’ installations have been seen and admired at prestigious celebrity weddings, exclusive functions and internationally acclaimed corporate and sporting events. Downings has extensive experience in providing temporary structures for small and large events.

WHY USE THEM Downings Marquee Rentals has a presence in Cape Town, Port Elizabeth and Johannesburg and has its own fabrication division that can modify or customise a structure for any short- or long-term requirement.

Downings understands that each temporary structure solution is unique and, for this reason, they aim to create extraordinary spaces – whether it be a corporate, sporting, social, or private function. Downings’ focus is on a collaborative approach, blending the client’s concept with their own, to ensure delivery of the optimum solution.

DIFFERENTIATOR Downings Marquee Rentals continuously strives to build its reputation as a sought-after rental provider for smart cover solutions in South Africa and with more than 20 years’ industry experience, the Downings name has become synonymous with quality and service.

Furthermore, all installations are of a semi-permanent nature and have a low carbon footprint.

Downings SA

+27 (0)21 851 8844 | +27 (0)81 365 6777

96 Lourens Road, Somerset West, Cape Town

Downings_Marq

planner@downings.co.za

Plot 82, Laezonia A.H., Centurion, Johannesburg

downings_marquee

www.downingsmarquee.co.za THE MEETINGS & EVENT PLANNER 2021 •

83

LET US BECOME AN EXTENSION OF YOUR BRAND DELIVERING EXPERIENTIAL HOSPITALITY SOLUTIONS! HOSPITALITY BOXES

Let us deliver your message with our range of experiential hospitality boxes that will keep your delegates smiling and engaged.

HOSPITALITY SOLUTIONS

Complete hospitality solutions for expo stands & events.

MOBILE BARS

We supply and set up complete infrastructure for your mobile bar requirements.

“MUSIC PROVIDES A platform to bring people together, to change the world, even if just for a moment...”

their live performances guarantee a good time for all!

WHAT THEY DO

Having been established for seven years, the Ducs have a large and varied fan base. They have played at many South African live music venues and festivals, from Pretoria to Durban to the Cape and back home again to Jozi, and have diverted their flight path via Dubai and Mauritius.

Rubber Duc are a no-brainer for corporate events because of their wide appeal and their fun and engaging on-stage personality!

As a repeat client says: “Rubber Duc had our 700 guests on the dance floor from the first chord to the last. They are fun, talented and very professional. We liked them so much we have booked them again. Can't wait!”

The Ducs read a crowd and amend their set according to the audience response, mixing

Rubber Duc, who entered the South African music scene in March 2014, consists of Kabelo Morake (saxophone), Brendan Campbell (lead guitar), Nick Jordaan (frontman), Amiel Gopal (bass) and Nicholas McCreadie on drums.

Their unique “folk-swing-hop” sound immediately gathered them a following and a great deal of media attention; when they launched, they were called “Joburg’s hottest new band” and “the next big thing”, and they have lived up to these titles! Rubber Duc’s melodies are catchy and the lyrics are nostalgic, evocative and clever. Whether performing original material, creating their own take on covers, or commenting on the world around us,

WHY USE THEM

up their original hits with their superb, “ducked-up” covers.

“Rubber Duc are one of the favourite bands booked by our properties nationally. They are professional, yet relaxed, making their clients feel at ease. They are a refreshing act that will get your party up and dancing, but also work in a formal dinner environment,” says another client.

ACCOMPLISHMENTS AND ACCLAIM Since their first hit single in March 2014, RUBBER DUC has become a South African favourite on radio and at live shows across the country, capturing the hearts of fans of all ages! The band released their debut album, The Secret Sunrise, in September 2016, which delivered numerous radio hits and secured them a spot at some of the country’s biggest music events. They have followed up their initial success with continued chart-topping hits, collaborations and nominations.

+27 (0)81 472 0339 | Amiel Gopal amiel@rubberduc.co.za www.rubberducmusic.com THE MEETINGS & EVENT PLANNER 2021 •

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SERVICES

ENTERTAINMENT

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

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.

TT HH EE

E IX N H C I BE I NT TI O I VN

E

Looking for new and exciting destinations?

The Incentive Planner is jam-packed 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

@theplannerguru

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.

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

www.theplanner.guru @theplannerguru

UKUSHISA SERVICES is a leading customised polystyrene supplier based in the south of Johannesburg.

WHAT THEY DO Providing individualised solutions for events, exhibitions, corporates, conferencing, wedding organisers and companies in the entertainment industry, Ukushisa Services is a leading supplier of all things polystyrene.

WHY USE THEM Ukushisa Services specialises in polystyrene signage, large-format lettering, 3D logos, branded centrepieces, as well as unique exhibition displays.

The company also offers various coating options, from plain or painted to resin and concrete coated.

New product development and in-house production allow this specialist to provide tailored, cost-effective solutions for all requirements, as well as comprehensive support to its customers.

ACCOMPLISHMENTS AND ACCLAIM Ukushisa Services has worked with a diverse range of clients and has an extensive portfolio. The company has executed an array of projects, from giant 3D caps to turning an exhibition stand into a faux cave.

THE DIFFERENTIATOR Rising to the challenge is Ukushisa’s forte. The company prides itself on its excellent personalised and hands-on customer service and its ability to supply high-quality products at the most competitive prices.

Ukushisa’s staff are always prepared to go the extra mile, with service that is fast, efficient and friendly, delivering solutions that fit within tight deadlines and budgets.

+27 (0)11 907 9305 derek@ukushisa.co.za | judy@ukushisa.co.za 2 7th Avenue cnr Andries Pretorius St, Alberton North

ukushisaservices

www.ukushisa.co.za THE MEETINGS & EVENT PLANNER 2021 •

87

SERVICES

POLYSTYRENE SUPPLIER

AT A WIDTH OF 1 708 M, VICTORIA FALLS, WHICH FORMS THE BORDER BETWEEN ZIMBABWE AND ZAMBIA, IS THE LARGEST WATERFALL IN AFRICA AND ONE OF THE LARGEST IN THE WORLD.

No-one can imagine the beauty of the view from anything witnessed in England.

It had never been seen before

by European eyes; but scenes so lovely must have been gazed upon by angels in their flight.”

Dr David Livingstone on first seeing the wonder of Victoria Falls

Making AGMs all around the world more transparent,

inclusive and effective Lumi’s virtual and hybrid solution features: Real-time weighted voting

Reports and auditing

Managed Q&A

Secure and accurate

Any size, anywhere

Webcast and slides

As live votes are cast they are counted, added to any proxy votes and the results are available to display instantly.

Questions can be submitted in text form through both the app and keypads.

These questions can be moderated and published to the chairperson and/or meeting attendees.

Certified voting, Q&A, content and webcast access can now be taken beyond the meeting room in addition to streamlining processes within the physical meeting.

From registrations through to results a variety of reports and a full audit trail are produced automatically, giving a complete and transparent record of the meeting.

Lumi’s technology runs on a secure dedicated network via encrypted cloud based servers in a choice of locations for mobile and hybrid meetings.

In addition to instant polling, virtual attendees can also view meeting slides, audio and live video through the app.

info-za@lumiglobal.com

THE EXECUTIVE CONFERENCE DESTINATION OF CHOICE Book your next business meeting or incentive group with Anantara and escape to an African paradise island or to the backdrop of the Victoria Falls.

Anantara Bazaruto Island Resort Meetings Package Includes: • • • • • •

Accommodation with full board dining Dune boarding or sunset dhow cruise experience Private beach party Private BBQ seafood dinner 10% discount on non-inclusive team building activities Non-motorised water sports

The Royal Livingstone Hotel By Anantara Meetings Package Includes: • • • •

Accommodation and breakfast Private venue hire on the deck or lawns for dinner Complimentary one-hour welcome cocktail reception with a selection of drinks and canapés 30% on selected treatments at the spa

Anantara Resorts. Hotels. Spas For more information call Tel: +27 10 003 8979, Email: cro.jnb@minorhotels.com LIFE IS A JOURNEY. Visit anantara.com