Travel May 2023 Edition

OPEN SPACES

Lose yourself in the extraordinary vastness and quiet of the Kalahari

Inside: SEYCHELLES | FORMULA 1 | TRAVEL TRENDS | TRANSFORMATION

Contents

2 FROM THE EDITOR

4 OPEN SPACES

When in the Kalahari, sometimes the best thing to do is simply to be still and let the uncommon quiet seep into your soul.

8 MOTORSPORT

While waiting for Formula 1 to return to South African shores, we jet off to follow the Grand Prix around the world.

13 ADVENTURE

A new trail run in the Seychelles hopes to introduce visitors to a different side of the archipelago nation.

15 TRENDS

The hospitality industry is filled with optimism as it embraces a new era of travel. We look at what is trending in travel in 2023.

18 DEVELOPMENT AND TRANSFORMATION

Transformation is essential for creating a more competitive and innovative domestic and outbound travel industry in South Africa.

20 ALL INCLUSIVE

8 20

4 13 FM TRAVEL 1

TRAVeL

Letting go

Like an elastic band stretched to breaking point by pandemic-related restrictions, enthusiastic travellers have been unleashed once more across the planet with a resounding twang – or whatever onomatopoeia better suits this metaphor. To stretch (ahem) said metaphor further, however, they’re finding they might not really get all that far, with flight ticket prices almost a third higher than pre-pandemic, owing to a perfect storm of soaring demand, staff shortages and rising fuel costs.

As South Africans, we’re also at the mercy of a ruthless exchange rate, watching in horror as the price of a bagel in New York or a baguette in Paris rose by 18 per cent over the past year.

While there’s some optimism for the currency, the situation isn’t likely to improve too much too soon, which is just one reason it makes sense to travel locally. Another is that we have gobsmackingly vast, beautiful and quiet spaces such as the Kalahari on our doorsteps. Get a taste of the magic on page 4.

Of course, this wouldn’t be a travel publication without a healthy dose of aspiration, which is why we explore a sport on the opposite end of the decibel spectrum – Formula 1 – on page 8, finding out just how much it’ll cost to chase the Grand Prix around the globe.

If you prefer your races a little slower and more tropical, the inaugural Seychelles Nature Trail aims to introduce visitors to a different side of the island nation. Check it out on page 13.

Of course, a big chunk of the surging travel demand is due to the rat race, with business travel back on the agenda in a big way – dive into this and other trends on page 15. Rising travel costs have also seen a rise in the popularity of all-inclusive vacations, which we unpack on page 20.

And speaking of business, tourism remains a crucial element of South Africa’s economy and employment prospects, which is why it needs to be rebuilt quickly and inclusively, as we find out on page 18.

Hopefully, with a bit of work, some planning and a bit of luck, we can make all our travel dreams, local and international, come true this year. Twang!

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EDITORIAL

Editor: Anthony Sharpe

Content Manager: Raina Julies rainaj@picasso.co.za

Contributors: Keith Bain, Tim Cordon, Trevor Crighton, Otto de Vries, Olivier Perillat-Piratoine, Christine Vel

Copy Editor: Brenda Bryden

Content Co-ordinator: Natasha Maneveldt

Digital Editor: Stacey Visser vissers@businessmediamags.co.za

DESIGN

Head of Design: Jayne Macé-Ferguson

Senior Designer: Mfundo Archie Ndzo

Advert Designer: Bulelwa Sotashe

Cover Image: Supplied

SALES

Project Manager: Tarin-Lee Watts wattst@picasso.co.za | +27 87 379 7119 +27 79 504 7729

PRODUCTION

Production Editor: Shamiela Brenner

Advertising Co-ordinator: Johan Labuschagne

Subscriptions and Distribution: Fatima Dramat, fatimad@picasso.co.za

MANAGEMENT

Management Accountant: Deidre Musha

Business Manager: Lodewyk van der Walt

General Manager, Magazines: Jocelyne Bayer

Copyright: picasso headline.

No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in any form without written consent of the publisher. the publisher is not responsible for unsolicited material. travel is published by picasso headline. the opinions expressed are not necessarily those of picasso headline. All advertisements/advertorials have been paid for and therefore do not carry any endorsement by the publisher.

Anthony Sharpe Editor

Tourism remains a crucial element of South Africa’s economy and employment prospects, which is why it needs to be rebuilt quickly and inclusively.

Savour the silence

There’s a silence you encounter in the Kalahari, an absence of noise with the power to touch your soul and tweak your reality.

it is not an empty silence, but rather one rich with the rhythms of nature, an audio of insects and birds, the breeze bristling through the scraggly vegetation, the sonorous vibrations of sand and dust as though the earth beneath you is alive.

it was at Tswalu that i first became aware of it – this textured, noiseless silence that is life’s abundance bubbling through the ether. it’s not only the soundscape that stops you in your tracks, but also the colours – that bleached brilliance, the rich redness of windswept dunes, the camouflage-green of hard-wearing trees.

Tswalu is the largest private game reserve in the country, a majestic wilderness stitched together from former cattle farms once devastated by overgrazing. Now it’s a bastion of conservation and wildlife research and home not only to the Big Five, but the place to visit if you want to see pangolins, aardvarks and meerkats in their element.

Cast your eye in any direction and there’s an endless proliferation of magnificent views, mottled olive-hued plains enfolded by the rugged Korannaberg mountains rising towards a crisp blue sky simmering beneath the white-hot sun.

There are Cape and bat-eared foxes, pretty-faced roan antelope, shy nocturnal creatures and collared cheetahs that can be tracked by the rangers, huge lion prides

and meerkat families that Tswalu’s guests can walk with as they forage and stand quizzically atop sandy mounds to survey their surrounds.

No small feast

Tswalu’s not only a wild, bustling place, but among the most gracious safari destinations on Earth. apart from bespoke lodgings with nature-inspired design elements and top-notch service, there’s also the allure of what is, without argument, the most unusual and memorable dining experience in South africa: Restaurant Klein JaN

Set in a 100-year-old farmhouse, dining at Klein JaN is like being part of a piece of interactive theatre, with alternating scenes for various food courses commencing with an introductory palate cleanser on the front porch and then a visit to a farm kitchen before traipsing down a set of stairs, seemingly into the bowels of the earth where you eventually find your table. Each dish works to showcase the produce and abundance of the Northern Cape uniquely.

Kalahari (un)common

Tswalu is, by a significant stretch, the Northern Cape’s most extravagant destination, a place you save up to experience once in your life. But there’s plenty more in the Kalahari that you can savour for a fraction of the price.

There are roadside stalls serving gigantic plates of food in quirkily decorated environments full of inventive humour, and the middle-of-nowhere towns dishing out the

kind of charm that makes you feel like you’ve travelled back in time.

Upington, the region’s commercial hub, is a city in miniature sprawled along the Orange River. it’s an urbanised oasis with sunset booze cruises on the river, a few unusual monuments and wine produced from grapes grown on the region’s sunbaked estates.

Vast vineyards supply grapes to co-operative producers such as Orange River Cellars, the largest winemaker in the country. You can sample its wines at Die Kerkmuis, a laid-back cellar-cum-tasting-room-cum-restaurant, which spills out onto an open terrace and garden where children can run around and play.

Two hours from Upington in the direction of Namibia and in vivid contrast to the silence of the arid plains, there’s

When in the Kalahari, sometimes the best thing to do is simply to be still and let the uncommon quiet seep into your soul, writes Keith Bain

Restaurant Klein JAN

A legae at Tswalu’s Motse camp.

Tswalu is, by a significant stretch, the Northern Cape’s most extravagant destination, a place you save up to experience once in your life.

the roar and rumble of augrabies Falls, a phenomenal spectacle any time of year, but absolutely mind-boggling once the rainy season brings down its deluge. The wilderness that enfolds the waterfalls is a great place to get lost in the landscapes for a while.

On the frontier

Of course, no visit to the Kalahari would feel complete without dipping into its more arid, far-northern border-straddling Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park, where visitors thrill at the sight of black-maned lions and watch humongous herds of springbok stretch across the horizon while jackals and oryxes saunter through the scraggly grass at the foot of the red dunes that are defining features of the reserve.

in SaNPark’s off-grid wilderness camps, you are assured of solitude and space, and a chance to see and hear animals from your veranda.

You don’t even need to rough it, in case you still imagine needing to pack a tent or have a massive 4x4 to get around. Rather than stay inside the park, where food and supplies can be sketchy, you can opt for the abundant true-Kalahari hospitality at Kgalagadi Lifestyle Lodge, five kilometres from the Twee Rivieren entrance.

it’s considerably less crowded than the main SaNParks camp just inside the park gate, with the benefit of an excellent on-site restaurant, the Black mane Butcher & grill, overseen by the lodge’s owner, SJ Koortzen, a real salt-of-the-earth, born-and-bred Kalahari seun

Koortzen has built cottages on a high ridge overlooking a scene that, come sunset, turns psychedelic, with a sky that looks like it should be served in a cocktail glass.

The lodge has a pool, free-roaming antelope, camping sites, a well-stocked supply store with meat and other braai essentials, and a 4x4 rental service so you can take a vehicle from the lodge, explore the reserve for the day and be back in time for a thick, juicy T-bone from what is certainly the Northern Cape’s best steakhouse.

On days when you don’t visit the park, there are other quirky stops nearby, including a meerkat sanctuary and a dune-boarding operation down the road.

Considerably more offbeat, though, would be to make an appointment to visit the country’s only camel dairy on a far-flung farm set amid vast, flat salt pans and hillocks piled with massive boulders.

You need to be at Koppieskraal Camel Farm by 8am sharp if you want to watch the milking process. afterwards, farmer Hans Knoetse might take you on a tour and let you get up close to the camels. There are also camel milk products to taste, including an ice cream that’s a welcome antidote to the Kalahari heat.

and, of course, there’s more of that surreal silence. Be sure to listen with all your might.

Kalahari wish list

Across the region, keep watch for sociable weavers’ nests, halfmens trees and quiver trees. Visit Augrabies Falls National Park to gawk at one of the most spectacular natural phenomena in the country. sanparks.org

Enjoy the family-friendly atmosphere, steaks, burgers, milk-tart-stuffed pancakes and Kalahari wines at Die Kerkmuis at the tasting room of Orange River Cellars in Upington. 054 495 0040, orangeriverwines.com/tasting-centre Sample wines and spirits at Die Mas van Kakamas. diemas.co.za

While at Die Mas, order a pizza from the on-site restaurant, Die Koker Kombuis. There’s another branch at Die Pienk Padstal, an unmissably pink farm stall near the edge of Kakamas on the road towards Upington. diekokerkombuis.co.za

Feast at Black Mane Butcher & Grill while spending a few nights at Kgalagadi LifestyleLodge. kgalagadi-lodge.co.za

Take at least a day to drive slowly through the Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park. Intrepid safari enthusiasts might want to bed down at one of the more remote SANParks camps within the reserve. sanparks.org

Get your head sniffed by a camel at Koppieskraal Camel Farm. camelmilksouthafrica.co.za

When you pause (usually for fuel) in the little town of Askham, about an hour south of Twee Rivieren, do pop into the Diamond T, a coffee shop, deli and gift store, for a slice of the world’s dreamiest milk tart. 054 511 0025

Experience quirky decor and homegrown hospitality at the Vanzylsrus Hotel in the far-flung eponymous town. The artful touches and unpretentious bar make the considerable drive (on a hectic dirt road) worthwhile. vanzylsrushotel.com

And, if your pockets are deep enough, spend a few nights at Tswalu. Launching in July with an opening special of four nights for the price of three is the new Loapi Tented Camp (R40 200 per person sharing). Rates include all meals (including one meal at Klein JAN), drinks and game-viewing activities. tswalu.com

Cast your eye in any direction and there’s an endless proliferation of magnificent views, mottled olive-hued plains enfolded by the rugged Korannaberg mountains.

Game drive at Tswalu.

The al fresco lounge deck at Tswalu’s Motse camp.

THE GRAND ADVENTURE

Attending a Formula 1 Grand Prix is a bit like attending a soccer or rugby world cup final – except there’s one almost every weekend, writes

Trevor CrighTon

South african motorsport fans got their first taste of top-tier, international, single-seater motorsport in February when Formula E whirred into town. The action came after a few months of “will they, won’t they?” speculation about Formula 1 returning for the first time since 1993.

The apex series passed on visiting africa in 2023, although hope remains that Kyalami or a street circuit in Cape Town may have the chance to host Verstappen, Hamilton and co soon.

attending a grand Prix has changed a bit since the circus last visited local shores, and fans need to prepare for a different experience. There’s talk of all sorts of affordability concessions to draw in the tens of thousands of fans that a race of this magnitude would deserve – but it’s still not going to be cheap. Despite that, attending

a grand Prix is truly a special experience that should be on most bucket lists, even if you’re not a motorsport fan. There’s no other experience that combines speed, danger, glamour and young multimillionaires doing the near-impossible quite like F1.

Modern F1

a few official tour operators are licensed to sell race weekend tickets, but the principal portal is f1experiences.com. Races generally go on sale about a year in advance, and the good seats sell out quickly. F1 Experiences sells different packages: starting with a basic seat on a grandstand and running to the Paddock Club experience, which gets you caviar and champagne and even the occasional disturbance of a car blasting past. You get support races – likely some F2, where you can see the next generation of F1 stars, and the Porsche Super Cup – with the drivers

Singapore hosted F1’s first-ever night race during the 15th round of the 2008 World Championship.

schlepped around the track on the back of a truck before the race starts, if you want a wave.

Plebs can probably get away with somewhere between R5 000 and R7 500 for a basic weekend ticket package at an overseas race (without travel, food or accommodation), so even if the ticket price is halved to help fill up stands in South africa, it’s not going to be a cheap exercise.

You can get close to the drivers – or at least the cars – if you cough up for a ticket that includes a pit walk. You can even pose for a pic with the World Championship trophy for a nominal fee. With global sporting events come sponsorships and licences, meaning you can pick up a team golf shirt at an official stand for upwards of R2 000 and will likely have to sip a R200 Heineken or queue up at a food stand set up by the highest local bidder, which comes with premium prices. Think of it as spending three days in airport duty-free, but on a larger and noisier scale.

While we wait for F1 to (hopefully) make a pit stop in South africa, consider grabbing a ticket for one of these beloved racing circuits around the world.

Silverstone

Silverstone is the “home” of F1, having hosted the first grand Prix Championship race in may 1950. many teams have their home bases nearby, giving the race a unique feel. Huge crowds pile in over the race weekend, with many opting to brave the mercurial British weather to camp within the circuit grounds. The 2022 edition attracted a record weekend crowd of 401 000.

The “Tifosi” paint Monza red – anything that isn’t a Ferrari is the enemy.

Grandstands on the pit straight offer the chance to see F1 teams change four tyres in under three seconds.

go if: You’re an F1 history nut and want to check out the cars from some of the best vantage points on the race calendar.

Avoid if: The R22:£1 exchange rate scares you – which it should.

Top tip: There’s no accommodation near the track, so you’ll likely have to drive or bus in from Coventry or surrounds.

Sit at: Becketts to get a distant view of the cars heading through Village and The Loop, down aintree straight and then slowing for the kink right in front of you before blasting down Hangar Straight.

More info: www.silverstone.co.uk

Singapore

Singapore hosted F1’s first-ever night race during the 15th round of the 2008 World Championship. The lights go out at 8pm local time, which means conditions are much cooler for spectators and drivers.

go if: You want to tick a night race off your bucket list. Singapore is also the hottest ticket for supporting entertainment – the last few years of post-event performances within the circuit precinct have included gigs by marshmello, green Day, muse, Red Hot Chili Peppers, Fatboy Slim, Dua Lipa, martin garrix and The Killers, among scores of local and Europe-based support acts.

Avoid if: There’s no reason to, except that Singapore isn’t necessarily a cheap place to visit. But, then again, nowhere is when you’re paying in rands.

Top tip: The Singapore metro is ruthlessly efficient and puts on extra trains for race day, but you’ll still likely have a bit of a walk from the nearest stop to your seat, depending on which part of the track you’re visiting.

Sit at: Sheares (turn 1) to see the cars braking from the fastest point on the circuit, around 309km/h, to about 140km/h and negotiating a kink into turn 2. The pit exit is also right in front of you.

More info: www.singaporegp.sg/en

Monza

The g rand Prix has stopped at m onza for over a hundred years and shows no signs of skipping the Temple of Speed. i t’s the fastest track on the current calendar, and the massive stands give spectators a great look at how insanely quick these cars are. Plus, there are no more rabid fans in the world than Ferrari’s “Tifosi” who have to be relieved of water bottles, power banks and anything that could be turned into a projectile in case another team dares beat their beloved scarlet cars.

g o if: You want a proper dose of history and speed and don’t mind trying to access a track with 100 000 locals who don’t care for queuing.

Avoid if: You like structure, organisation, efficiency and access to bathrooms, food and drinks.

Top tip: i t’s easy to get to m onza from m ilan on the train, but be prepared for a 3km+ walk from the bus stop, through a national park, to any worthwhile seating area.

Sit at: Curva Parabolica, the corner leading onto the main straight, to get a real sense of the power of F1 cars, or the Variante del Rettifilio (the first chicane) to see them slow down before accelerating away down towards Curva g rande. More info: www.monzanet.it/en

Monaco

monaco is the ultimate “look at me” circuit. Winding through the streets of one of the most expensive places on earth to live, it’s also, annoyingly, a pilgrimage spot for any motorsport fan.

New money watches the race from yachts moored in the harbour, old money watches the race from their lounges. For the peasants, there are about 14 vantage points to watch the race from, one of them being a standing-room-only hill where your view is partially obscured by trees. You get what you pay for in monaco – so if you’d like a two-day pass for the uncovered grandstand V to see the cars round Rascasse and Noghes, expect to pay about R51 000 per person just to place your buttocks.

go if: You think stardust rubs off.

Avoid if: You don’t have a trust fund.

Top tip: if you want to make the pilgrimage, don’t do currency conversions – just soak in the atmosphere and don’t be mean about local monegasque driver Charles Leclerc.

Sit at: Wherever you can afford, which is most likely to be your lounge at home. if you can bag a ticket, the Piscine section opposite the harbour is an iconic section of the track. More info: www.monte-carlo.mc/en/grandprix-monaco/circuit-monaco

Formula 1 race dates for 2023

Formula 1 You Tube channel

Rain can’t dampen the thrill of the F1 experience.

At Monaco, the nouveau riche watch the race from their yachts.

BE PREPARED WHEN TRAVELLING

Arranging an international trip is a considerable investment of both time and money. And it comes with certain risks: cancelled flights, lost baggage and unexpected medical emergencies while travelling abroad can be enormously costly and disruptive. The last few years have shown us that nothing can be taken for granted, and travellers must plan accordingly. Effectively managing the common risks involved in travel is the best way to ensure a fun, enjoyable, hassle-free travel experience.

Bryte provides a wide range of travel plans, catering to individual travellers and families travelling together. While most of our plans cover global destinations, we offer the Island Hopper plan specifically for people travelling to the Indian Ocean Islands. In addition, there is a local plan for domestic travel and an inbound plan for foreigners

visiting our beautiful country. We also provide cover for senior travellers between the ages of 70–89 years inclusive.

CLAIMS AND HOW HAVING TRAVEL INSURANCE HELPS

Travellers regularly claim for medical and related expenses, cancelled trips or those cut short, or costs resulting from travel delays and baggage losses. It is, therefore, important to understand how your travel insurance policy responds in each of these situations. Travel insurance is designed to help manage a range of common risks, however, as with any cover, there are always limitations that policyholders must be mindful of:

• When travellers have a medical emergency while on their insured journey, they must contact Bryte Travel

Assist as soon as possible (reverse call charges accepted through the international operator or a paid call when dialled directly). A phone call is the quickest and recommended way to reach the assistance team when a client is in an emergency. Our website also provides an option for the traveller to share their information so that our assistance team can contact them –(https://travelinsurance.brytesa.com/ claim/emergency/).

• It is important to note that your travel insurance policy does not replace your medical aid or personal insurance policy.

• If you need to cancel your trip for a reason we cover, please note that we pay for the nonrefundable and unused portion of your trip. Policyholders must always contact their travel agent, airline or hotel first. For example, if you are

Managing the risks involved in travel is the best way to have peace of mind and a problem-free trip, writes Anriëth Symon, head of travel at Bryte

provided with a voucher for an airline ticket or hotel that can be used later, you cannot also claim under your travel insurance policy. Bryte Travel also provides an option for cancellation for an unnamed reason available on specified plans. Terms and conditions apply.

• We recommend against travelling with jewellery, electronics, or high-valued personal luxury items. However, if this is a must, we advise that valuable items are insured under a personal insurance policy. The travel insurance policy has a single-item limit, which means we will not pay more than a certain amount for any single item (less the excess you need to pay after claiming from your personal plan).

To ensure a hassle-free break, it is important to understand the risks and ensure you are covered by an insurer that can help safeguard you, your loved ones, and your possessions. Even the best-planned trip can take a turn for the worst, so preparing for those scenarios is crucial. The right policy will give you peace of mind when you venture

out on your next adventure. Bryte Travel understands that there is no one-size-fitsall cover, so we aim to provide the most comprehensive plans to cover your needs wherever you are

KNOW THE TERMS AND CONDITIONS

We strongly encourage all travellers to be fully aware of the standard travel policy terms, conditions and exclusions to avoid any challenges at the claims stage. It is vitally important to understand the level of cover, how the policy responds, and what is required of policyholders when travelling. Our policy

wording is the insurance contract between the traveller and Bryte. It details the insurance cover we provide (based on the plan purchased), the conditions of the insurance and when the claim is likely to be unsuccessful (exclusions).

Bryte Travel Insurance is designed to protect your family during your well-deserved break, wherever you choose to explore next.

All cover is subject to terms, conditions and exclusions as outlined in the policy wording. Cover only applies if it reflects on your schedule of benefits.

For more information: 0860 737 775 travelcare@brytesa.com travelinsurance.brytesa.com

understand the risks and ensure you are covered by an insurer that can help safeguard you, your loved ones, and your possessions.

Scan this QR code to go directly to the Bryte website.

Anriëth Symon

Who needs the beach when you can trek through unspoilt terrain to waterfalls and mountain peaks? seychelles, famous for its paradisical beaches, is also a treasure trove of trails and adventure experiences. With the inaugural seychelles Nature trail taking place on 13 may, it’s the perfect time to explore the archipelago’s lush, leafy side.

the seychelles Nature trail marathon is expected to attract runners from all over the world, taking them through 22km of some of the most beautiful and challenging trails on the island of mahé. However, even if you’re not a runner, exploring the trails in seychelles is an unforgettable experience that will allow you to experience the islands’ unique biodiversity.

the seychelles archipelago is made up of 115 islands in the Indian ocean. It’s a natural paradise, boasting a diverse ecosystem with over 250 species of birds, giant tortoises and an array of endemic flora and fauna. take the rare and endangered Lyan potao plant, a fascinating carnivorous plant that can only be found on the archipelago. It captures insects in its leaves and digests them to extract the nutrients it needs to thrive.

another unique species that can be found in the seychelles is the jellyfish tree. this critically endangered tree is so named because of its unusual fruit, which resembles a jellyfish when it falls to the ground. the jellyfish tree is believed to be one of the oldest flowering plants in the world, with fossil evidence dating back over 125 million years.

Meander through mangroves

Hiking through seychelles’ mangroves is an awe-inspiring experience that offers an opportunity to explore a vital and fragile ecosystem often overlooked by visitors. the archipelago is home to several mangrove forests, which not only store vast amounts of carbon, but also provide a natural barrier against coastal erosion and create a vital habitat for a wide range of indigenous species.

Wind your way through the tangled roots and gnarled trunks of these trees to a soundtrack of chirping birds, with sunlight filtering through the dense canopy and creating dappled patterns on the forest floor.

Seychelles beyond the beach

one of the best places to experience this unique environment is on mahé, where the Vacoa Nature and casse Dent trails offer visitors the chance to hike through some of the most breathtaking mangrove forests in the archipelago. as you walk along the boardwalks that wind through the mangroves, you will be able to spot a range of birdlife, including kingfishers and herons, as well as the occasional giant tortoise.

Rock of ages

Discovering seychelles’ ancient granite formations is also an unforgettable experience. the granite boulders that are scattered throughout the islands have been shaped by time and the elements, creating a rugged and dramatic landscape that is unlike anything else in the world.

the granite formations are particularly prominent on the island of mahé, where the anse major trail offers hikers the chance to explore this stunning landscape up close. the trail takes you through lush forest and across streams before opening up to panoramic views of the coast and the striking granite boulders that frame it.

one of the most fascinating aspects of hiking through seychelles’ granite islands is the chance to see how these formations have influenced the local flora and fauna. many of the plants and animals found on the islands have evolved to thrive in the unique environment created by the granite boulders. for example, the granite outcrops provide shelter for a variety of bird species, including the seychelles blue pigeon and the seychelles kestrel. the boulders also act as a natural water source, creating microclimates that support a range of plant species, from orchids and ferns to towering palms.

While seychelles is known for its beaches and luxury resorts, exploring the trails and trekking opportunities on the islands is a must-do for nature lovers. from the morne seychellois National Park to the Vallée de mai Nature reserve, there are plenty of trails to explore, each offering a unique perspective on the island’s natural beauty. Whether you participate in the seychelles Nature trail marathon or simply explore the trails at your own pace, a trekking adventure in seychelles is an unforgettable experience. for more information, visit seychelles.com/experiencewalksandtrails.

A new race is introducing travellers to the beauty of Seychelles’ trails and trekking opportunities. By Christine Vel , director for South Africa at Tourism Seychelles

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Four trends shaping travel this year

Tim Cordon, Radisson Hotel Group CEO for Middle East and Africa, shares his thoughts on what travel will look like in 2023

While there are still many challenges to overcome, the travel industry has shown promising signs of recovery from the effects of the pandemic, providing those in the hospitality industry with a real sense of optimism as they begin to progress into a new era of travel. globally, there is a clear shift in travellers’ behaviour, but what does this mean for the travel landscape in 2023?

2 Experiential tourism is on the rise

1 AI and tech enhancing travel

artificial intelligence (ai) continues to improve to become more reliable and attractive as a business solution. businesses within the travel industry heavily depend on delivering excellent customer service to build their reputations and ai represents an effective tool to do this.

For hotels, one of the most exciting uses of ai is in providing assistance to customers online by using chatbots and instant messaging apps. With a growing demand from consumers for faster response times on online platforms, ai can meet this demand at a rate that is almost impossible for humans.

in addition, the industry is witnessing an emerging trend in which the technology is used for face-to-face customer-service interactions, meaning shorter queues at information or reception desks and ultimately improved overall efficiency. beyond customer service, ai can be applied to collect and process data to draw conclusions about customers, business practices and pricing strategies.

experiential tourism is where people focus on experiencing a country, city or particular place by actively and meaningfully engaging with its history, people, culture, food and environment. modern travellers believe that excursions, attractions, events, and activities improve their travel experience better on an emotional level. as such, experiential travel and adventure activities are seen as the next big growth segment. the shift in consumer behaviour from investing in goods to investing in experiences comes as no surprise in light of the pandemic, which has taught us all the value of time and new experiences.

3 The return of the BUSINESS traveller Worth between r11.8-trillion and r12.17-trillion, according to the World travel & tourism council, the global meetings, incentives, conferences and exhibitions sector is not just one of the fastest-growing sectors, but also one that holds the most potential to propel africa’s economic development. the increased global uptake of vaccinations and the easing of travel restrictions mean that the demand for business travel returned in 2022.

according to expedia group’s traveler Value index 2023, approximately 32 per cent of individuals plan to take a business trip in the next 12 months, including 62 per cent of remote workers. moreover, 85 per cent of business travellers say they are excited to travel for work, with millennials (45 per cent) and gen Zs (40 per cent) being the most likely to do so this year.

there are various reasons for trips, from connecting with customers, attending industry events, conducting on-site visits or holding internal team meetings to more alternative business travel options, such as workcations and hush trips. While classic business travel has always presented a strong opportunity for the industry, alternative business travel presents a new layer of growth in 2023, holding the promise of increasing mid-week occupancy levels as travellers look to get in some leisure time while they work from a new location.

4 Travel spend is set to increase

despite record-high inflation rates across the globe, predictions are that travel spend will increase this year. Perhaps the most obvious cause is that many individuals could not travel as readily as before during the pandemic. having saved money during this period, they have a large sum of disposable capital and are eager to spend on unique experiences.

Forty-nine per cent of respondents in a booking.com survey reported that they were likely to spend more on their next trip to make up for lost time, while 43 per cent said they were willing to go all out when it came to costs. Perhaps more interesting is that, according to expedia, 80 per cent of younger travellers are willing to spend more to upgrade their experience.

A Natural Heritage site, this luxurious bush oasis, is home to an abundance of bird, plant and mammal life and over 130 ancient Bushman rock art sites. Your visit will be an unforgettable wilderness adventure with exceptional outdoor and wellness experiences, including nature drives and walks, mountain biking, fly-fishing, or a rejuvenating treatment in our Spa.

Bushmans Kloof Winderness Reserve & Wilderness Retreat offers accommodation in 18 individually decorated rooms, suites and villas, as well as extraordinary dining experiences in spectacular venues around the reserve.

Famous for its spectacular location and legendary sunsets, The 12 Apostles Hotel and Spa poised above the Atlantic Ocean, is flanked by the Twelve Apostles mountain range and majestic Table Mountain National Park, overlooking a luminescent marine reserve.

Close enough to the City, yet far enough away from ‘the madding crowd’, to transform every visit into a retreat, style goes hand in hand with classic comfort at The Twelve Apostles, in each of the popular bars, restaurants and 70 individually-designed rooms and suites.

Xigera Safari Lodge is deeply rooted in the Okavango Delta, a breathtaking landscape of seasonal floodplains and riverine forests, tawny grasslands and verdant papyrus wetlands. Drawing inspiration from its ancient setting, resting effortlessly within the wilderness of this World Heritage Site, the Lodge comprising 12 individually-designed, spacious suites, is all but hidden beneath a canopy of magnificent indigenous trees. Experiences include glassbottom Mekoro excursions, a unique sleepout in a baobab treehouse, spa treatments by Tata Harper and enriching game drives which take in a myriad of wildlife.

Xigera is equally a unique celebration of African art, culture and creativity. Bold in vision and groundbreaking in its scope, the first of its kind on the continent.

The family-owned Red Carnation Hotel Collection enchants visitors with four bespoke ‘jewels’ in distinctive areas across Africa. Each destination has its own individual character and unique location, but shares the qualities that create richly rewarding experiences for guests. Each of the award-winning boutique hotels in the collection is renowned for highly personalised service, exquisite fine dining, leading spas and sumptuous surroundings.

Overlooking the iconic Umhlanga lighthouse and Indian Ocean, and oozing with all the charm of a bygone era, the 86-room, multi-award-winning, The Oyster Box Hotel, is the epitome of modern elegance and comfort.

Renowned for its beachside location, extraordinary dining experiences and facilities, guests have a choice of bars and restaurants, two swimming pools, a private library, 24-seater movie theatre and Spa.

The time for change is now!

Inclusive growth is the only way forward for South Africa’s travel industry, writes

OTTO DE VRIES, CEO of the Association of South African Travel Agents

The ASATA business incubator offers a promising solution to help the industry recover and grow inclusively and sustainably.

Travel and tourism in South Africa is a vibrant and passionate industry that holds incredible promise for our country. It prides itself on connecting people and cultures from around the world. While significant transformation and inclusivity within the industry have been achieved, much must still be done.

For the industry to make a true impact, particularly regarding job creation and meaningful, sustainable growth, the full value chain needs to draw in black-owned small, medium and micro enterprises (SMMEs).

A key employment driver

In her first week as Minister of Tourism, Patricia de Lille highlighted job creation within the industry as a key priority, and rightfully so. Before COVID-19 decimated it, the total contribution of the travel and tourism sector to South Africa’s gross domestic product was 8.6 per cent in 2019, accounting for approximately R425.8-billion. The industry also created around 1.5 million direct and indirect jobs in the same year, making it a key driver of employment in the country, according to the World Travel & Tourism Council.

The pandemic torpedoed those numbers

According to the Tourism Business Council of South Africa, the industry lost an estimated R115-billion in revenue and 438 000 jobs in 2020 alone. Nevertheless, although those numbers are frightening, we all know the potential the industry holds.

As we rebuild our country, economy and industry, let’s make sure we get it right. By embracing diversity and promoting inclusivity,

Otto de Vries

the industry can create more meaningful and authentic experiences and build a greater sustainable and prosperous future for all. This is where the Association of South African Travel Agents (ASATA) nonprofit business incubator initiative comes in. The incubator is an essential step towards boosting the travel sector and supporting its transformation agenda.

An innovative way forward

The ASATA business incubator offers a promising solution to help the industry recover and grow inclusively and sustainably. Launched in co-operation with Sigma International, the initiative aims to strengthen and streamline the tourism sector’s broad-based black economic empowerment (B-BBEE) transformation agenda in an innovative way.

The incubator will offer enterprise development (ED) and supplier development (SD) services for ASATA members, enabling them to earn ED and SD points towards their B-BBEE scorecards. This will drive transformation through the value chain by consolidating the incubator model within the association’s structures and allowing for more investment spend across start-ups and SMME businesses looking to operate and trade with ASATA members and customers. By aggregating investment spend, ASATA can have a much greater impact on the travel industry while increasing transformation buy-in and reach.

The incubator will allow ASATA members to redirect a preferred percentage of their ED or SD investment spend to the business incubator, providing a hassle-free, tax-deductible and highly effective manner for travel businesses to contribute towards the transformation of many SMMEs that are at least 51 per cent black-owned. This, in turn, is expected to contribute significantly to employment opportunities in the industry. As the incubator supports SMMEs and black-owned businesses, it can create new jobs and boost economic growth.

Flexible impact

The ASATA incubator differs from other similar initiatives as it offers flexibility in where members can direct their transformation funds. Rather than channelling transformation

funds to a single organisation, members can redirect a preferred percentage of their ED or SD investment spend to the business incubator, which will support up to 60 beneficiaries each financial year at a cost of R95 000 (excluding VAT) and provide custom-made (needs-based) programmes suited to each of the beneficiaries and their businesses for one year.

The business incubator is industry-led, with staff involved in the beneficiary selection process and transformation journey led by their employers. ASATA can also nominate beneficiaries on a business’s behalf with guidance as to the intentions of their transformation spend. The initiative aims to be a collective effort that has real impact on the ground, with industry stakeholders positively responding to channelling their transformation spend through the platform.

The partnership with Sigma International, an award-winning level 1 B-BBEE company, further strengthens the initiative’s impact, including its extensive partner network. Sigma International has a proven track record of establishing similar tried-and-tested business incubators for the Department of Tourism and several large industry stakeholders across other sectors, including mining, forestry and paper. This partnership adds credibility to the initiative and ensures its successful implementation.

Towards a brighter future

The tourism industry has always, quite literally, been an industry of dreams – of undiscovered places around the world for intrepid travellers, but also of a brighter future for more than one million South Africans employed in the sector. As the country recovers from the pandemic and tries to rebuild its economy, the travel industry has an important role to play. Transformation is essential for creating a more competitive and innovative domestic and outbound travel industry. By embracing diversity and inclusivity, promoting sustainable practices, fostering innovation and competitiveness and contributing to economic growth and development, the industry can build a more inclusive, equitable and sustainable future for all.

The ASATA nonprofit business incubator is an important initiative in this transformation journey. It has the potential to create new job opportunities, strengthen small businesses, create new economic opportunities and contribute to the country’s economic development. The initiative is an exciting, collective effort that can have a real impact on the ground, help to transform the industry for the better and boost South Africa’s economic recovery.

ABOUT ASATA

Learn more about ASATA’s business incubator here

Transformation is essential for creating a more competitive and innovative domestic and outbound travel industry.

The all-inclusive boom

South Africans are travelling once more, but with a wary eye on their wallets, giving all-inclusive vacations a welcome spotlight.

By OLIVIER PERILLAT-PIRATOINE , MD for Club Med Southern Africa

With international travel restrictions easing and people eager to travel again, South Africa returned to pre-pandemic levels of global travel during the second half of 2022. However, with high inflation and economic uncertainties, travellers are now seeking high-quality packages that offer value for money – and all-inclusive package holidays have emerged as a popular solution.

Unpacking the all-inclusive concept

An all-inclusive holiday is one where various elements are packaged and sold for a single price. These include accommodation, meals, drinks (both alcoholic and nonalcoholic), various on-site land and water activities, and entertainment options. All-inclusive holidays cater to a variety of travellers across a range of demographics and preferences, ensuring a tailored holiday experience. They also offer families the invaluable option of professional childcare and creative fun kids’ clubs to ensure a fun holiday for the whole family. Flights and airport transfers can also be included.

Here comes the boom

The primary appeal of all-inclusive holidays is the convenience, peace of mind and cost certainty provided. Paying a fixed price upfront for their holiday means that cost-conscious travellers can better manage their budget and avoid unexpected costs. This is even more applicable to family or group holidays, especially in snow destinations, for example, that involve a lot of separate costs and logistics, such as ski passes, lessons, gear rental and ski-in ski-out facilities.

Holidaymakers are now spoilt for choice, with all-inclusive options the world over. Interestingly, there is a noticeable increased interest in exotic, long-haul destinations because, with today’s airline pricing model, further does not necessarily mean more expensive.

Tailoring the experience

There are many options to pick and choose from in terms of all-inclusive holidays.

Family-friendly resorts. There has been a trend of young families moving away from DIY holiday planning and opting for all-inclusive, most likely because having a travel consultant plan the holiday from start to finish eases unnecessary stress. In addition, resorts such as Club Med La Pointe aux Cannoniers in Mauritius have proved popular due to their childcare services and kids’ clubs for children of all ages. These offerings are developed in partnership with an educational psychologist to offer positive education to little travellers in a fun, creative environment.

Adult-only getaways. Several all-inclusive resorts prioritise parent-friendly holidays focused on quality time and experiences. Upscale accommodation, sophisticated dining and wellness-focused activities are coupled with curated spaces such as the adult-only Zen Zone at Club Med La Plantation d’Albion. Adventure packages. Active packages such as snow holidays in the French Alps are also becoming increasingly popular among South Africans, and it’s easy to see why. A snow holiday is a magical bucket-list experience, but planning it yourself is also incredibly complex. For this reason, all-inclusive snow packages for

The primary appeal of all-inclusive holidays is the convenience, peace of mind and cost certainty provided.

South African travellers (who might not be snow-holiday savvy or know where to start planning) are easy and seamless.

The future

As the travel industry evolves and consumer preferences shift, all-inclusive holidays will likely be influenced by several trends:

Technological integration. Technology will continue to play a significant role in enhancing the all-inclusive experience. This includes contactless services, smart amenities and apps that improve guest experiences and streamline operations.

Flexible pricing models. To cater to the price-conscious South African and a diverse range of budgets and preferences, all-inclusive providers have an opportunity to offer alternative pricing models. These might include paying a low deposit to secure their holiday and lock in the ever-fluctuating rand exchange rate, then paying off the balance over time.

Health and wellness focus. With an increased emphasis on health and wellbeing, all-inclusive resorts will have to incorporate wellness into their offerings. Yoga, holistic spa services, fitness studios and inclusive dining options all cater to holidaymakers seeking a rejuvenating holiday experience.

Sustainability and ecotourism. As awareness of environmental issues and sustainable travel grows, travellers are keen to take more responsibility for the impact on the planet that their travel creates. All-inclusive providers need to adopt eco-friendly practices, promote sustainable tourism and engage local communities to minimise environmental and social effects.

By keeping abreast of these trends, providers can continue to offer appealing, value-driven holiday packages. Similarly, by staying updated on contemporary developments, holidaymakers can make informed decisions to find the perfect all-inclusive package for their needs, ensuring unforgettable experiences without breaking the bank.

Club Med Seychelles