Editor’s Letter
AS we embrace the joy of the festive season, we invite you to journey with us through the enchanting realm of African tourism in our latest issue, themed “Unforgettable Experiences of Festive Tourism - Celebrating Africa.” This month, we delve into the vibrant tapestry of cultures and traditions that make Africa a unique destination for unforgettable memories and celebrations.
In our first article, we explore the fascinating dynamics of business travel costs across continents, revealing how travelers can maximise their rand amid global pricing disparities. Insights from FCM Consulting guide us through the contrasting experiences of domestic versus international business travel, highlighting the strategic advantages of understanding market differences.
Next, we take you on a whirlwind tour through some of Africa’s most breathtaking locales, showcasing the must-visit destinations that embody the spirit of celebration. From the majestic landscapes of South Africa and Kenya’s wildlife wonders to Morocco’s rich tapestry of
cultures and Ghana’s embrace of hospitality, our curated list aims to inspire your next adventure. Each country offers unique, unforgettable experiences that celebrate the continent’s beauty and diversity.
Finally, we invite you to immerse yourself in the colourful cultural celebrations that mark this festive season across Africa. Highlighting traditional festivals such as Umkhosi Wokweshwama in South Africa and Timkat in Ethiopia, we emphasize the communal joy and heritage that these events embody. Discover how families come together to honour their traditions, and let the festive spirit inspire your travels during this season of togetherness.
As you navigate your holiday plans, remember that Africa is more than just a destination; it is a celebration of life, community, and shared memories. We hope this issue inspires you to explore, embrace, and create unforgettable memories with loved ones, rooted in the rich heritage of our remarkable continent.
Wishing you a season full of joy and discovery.
Derek Martin Editor
The Big Mac Test How SA’s Business Travel Costs
Stack Up Globally
When a Big Mac in London costs nearly double what you’d pay in Joburg, you know you’re onto something interesting about global pricing. It’s a quirky but telling way to understand cost differences around the world – and when it comes to business travel, those differences are eye-popping.
New data from FCM Consulting’s Q3 Trend Report 2024 paints a fascinating picture of just how far your travel rand stretches at home versus abroad.
“The Big Mac comparison perfectly captures what the report shows us in business travel costs. Same product, same quality, wildly different price tags depending on where you are,” says Bonnie Smith, GM of Corporate Traveller.
According to the report a business traveller can check into a sleek business hotel in Sandton for $130 a night, up 14% compared with Q2. Your colleague in London? They’re paying $315 (up 29%) for an equivalent room. In Paris, it’s $304, and Amsterdam will set you back $267. Meanwhile, Cape Town holds its own at $172 – still a relative bargain on the global stage, despite a quarterly increase of 29%.
The report reveals the most expensive cities for business travel per region, with London, Riyadh ($311), Singapore ($271), and New York ($490, up 15%) leading the pack. In contrast, cities offering better value include Jakarta ($139), Mumbai ($151), and Bangkok ($145) alongside Johannesburg. Gateway cities like Dubai ($170) and Abu Dhabi ($187) sit somewhere in the middle, reflecting their position as global connection hubs.
The car hire story might be even more startling. That premium sedan you’re hiring in Johannesburg for $23 a day would cost you $65 in Germany. Same car, same features, same international rental company –just a very different number on the invoice.
When it comes to flying, things get really interesting. Global airfares are stabilising – with economy seats down by $16 (-3%) and business class up by $137 (+6%). Africa’s aviation scene is expanding – which is good news for regional travellers. With 2% more flights and 2.1% more seats, competition is helping keep those prices in check.
These price differences create opportunities for proactive travel management, says Smith. “It’s about understanding how to use these market differences strategically,” Smith explains. “When you’re looking at such significant price variations between markets, smart planning becomes crucial.”
As global travel demand increases, with hotel occupancy in major cities exceeding 50%, the value gap between domestic and international travel costs could widen further. However, Smith sees opportunities in this challenge.
“Companies need to think holistically about their travel programmes,” she advises. “Use the competitive domestic rates as a foundation, while working with your TMC to optimise international travel costs.”
Bonnie Smith
General Manager Corporate Traveller
“This festive season, let Africa’s vibrant cultures and traditions inspire you to discover new ways of celebrating the holidays.”
Embracing Cultural Celebrations and Traditions in African Seasonal Tourism T
he festive season approaches, travelers from around the world set their sights on Africa—a continent where tradition, culture, and celebration blend seamlessly to create an experience like no other. The festive period in Africa is not just about holiday lights or winter snows but rather a vibrant celebration of heritage, community, and joyful traditions that bring families and communities together. Whether it’s a grand feast, an exhilarating festival, or an age-old cultural ritual, African festive season tourism offers a tapestry of unique experiences that invite travelers to explore the rich diversity of the continent.
Here’s a journey through some of the most extraordinary festive traditions across Africa, where cultural celebrations bring the season to life.
The ‘First Fruits’ Festival: Umkhosi Wokweshwama, South Africa
In December, as the festive season draws near, the Zulu nation celebrates the *Umkhosi Wokweshwama*—the First Fruits Festival. Held in KwaZulu-Natal, this ancient ceremony marks the start of the harvest season and is a time to give thanks for the land’s bounty. During this celebration, the Zulu King performs a series of rituals, including the symbolic eating of the first harvest, accompanied by singing, dancing, and traditional drumming. For visitors, it’s an opportunity to witness the powerful cultural pride of the Zulu people while immersing in a
tradition that dates back centuries.
Kwanzaa: A Pan-African Celebration of Unity
Though celebrated primarily in the African diaspora, Kwanzaa draws heavily on African traditions and has a special resonance in many African countries. From December 26th to January 1st, families celebrate the seven principles of Kwanzaa, known as *Nguzo Saba*, which include unity, self-determination, and creativity. In places like Ghana, Nigeria, and Kenya, communities gather to light candles, exchange handmade gifts, and prepare lavish feasts featuring traditional dishes like jollof rice, suya, and injera. For travelers, Kwanzaa celebrations offer a chance to participate in a vibrant cultural exchange focused on community, gratitude, and heritage.
Festival of Lights: Timkat, Ethiopia
While Christmas is widely celebrated in Ethiopia on January 7th, the real spectacle comes later with *Timkat*, the Ethiopian Orthodox celebration of Epiphany. Taking place on January 19th, this colorful festival commemorates the baptism of Jesus Christ in the Jordan River. In cities like Gondar and Addis Ababa, the streets are filled with joyous processions led by priests in brightly colored robes, carrying replicas of the Ark of the Covenant. The highlight is the blessing of water, where participants renew their faith by being sprinkled with holy water or even immersing themselves in sacred pools.
Boxing Day Braai: South Africa
South Africa’s festive season culminates with a beloved tradition known as the Boxing Day “braai” (barbecue). This celebration is more than just a meal—it’s a social gathering where families and friends come together to share food, music, and laughter under the African sun. From the beaches of Cape Town to the townships of Johannesburg, the scent of grilled meats, spicy *boerewors* sausages, and marinated chicken fills the air. It’s a time to relax, connect, and celebrate the year’s end. Travelers are always welcomed warmly to join in, making it a unique way to experience South African hospitality.
The Homowo Festival: Ghana
Though typically celebrated in August, the spirit of *Homowo* lingers into the festive season in Ghana, particularly in the Ga communities of Accra. *Homowo*, meaning “hooting at hunger,” is a harvest festival that marks the end of the agricultural season. The festive season in Ghana sees families cooking large pots of *kpokpoi* (a traditional cornmeal dish) and sharing it with neighbors. This spirit of
storytelling under the open skies. Guests staying in the Mara during this time can join in these celebrations, gaining insight into the Maasai way of life while enjoying the breathtaking beauty of one of Africa’s premier wildlife reserves.
Fire Dance Festival: Nyau Masquerade, Malawi
In Malawi, the festive season is marked by the colorful *Nyau* masquerade dances of the Chewa people. During these celebrations, masked dancers known as *Gule Wamkulu* perform acrobatic dances that symbolize ancestral spirits. The festivities, which can last well into December and January, are a captivating blend of music, dance, and storytelling. For visitors, attending a *Nyau* dance is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that reveals the deep cultural roots of Malawi’s traditions.
“In places like Ghana, Nigeria, and Kenya, communities gather to light candles, exchange handmade gifts, and prepare lavish feasts.”
communal sharing extends into December, where local markets are filled with music, dance, and vibrant parades as families prepare for Christmas and the New Year.
Christmas in the Maasai Mara, Kenya
For those who want to experience the festive season while staying connected to nature, Christmas in the Maasai Mara offers an extraordinary cultural immersion. The Maasai people celebrate Christmas with a blend of Christian and indigenous traditions. Dressed in their striking red shukas, Maasai warriors and women gather for traditional dances, prayers, and
Lizelle Smith News correspondent
Discover Africa: Unforgettable Destinations to Create Unforgettable Memories
The festive season is a time for celebrating friends, family and loved ones. On many occasions those we love spend time together and talk about the memories we share and what keeps us connected to each other.
The place we call home, Africa, is a continent of unparalleled beauty and diversity, offering countless opportunities to create memories that last a lifetime.
From its rolling savannas to pristine beaches, vibrant cities to deeply rooted heritage villages, every corner of Africa tells a story, offering those lucky enough to travel her, unique experiences that ignite the soul. In this article, we take a look at some of the best countries and locations to celebrate Africa and create unforgettable experiences. This is by no means an extensive list, but does cover a little something for everyone and every type of adventurer.
South Africa: A Complete World in A Single Country
The country I call home, and the place that will always have a part of my heart. Wherever I travel, it is the call of South Africa that brings me home and reminds me what this beautiful country has to offer. With landscapes ranging from the dramatic cliffs of the Cape to the sprawling grasslands of Kruger National Park. The country offers a perfect blend of adventure, culture, and relaxation.
Top 3 Unmissable Experiences:
Number one has to be the “Big Five” in the bush of the Kruger National Park.
Take a cable car ride up Table Mountain for some of the best views of Cape Town.
If vibrant culture is more your thing – Discover the very best of it while touring Soweto and Kwa-Zulu Natal.
Whether you’re exploring the majestic Garden Route or sipping wine in Stellenbosch, South Africa invites you to embrace its rich history, diverse wildlife, and breathtaking landscapes.
Kenya: The Heart of Safari
When many people think of Africa, images of Kenya often spring to mind. Often known as the birthplace of the safari, it’s an absolute haven for wildlife enthusiasts and adventurers alike.
Top 3 Unmissable Experiences:
An ultimate bucket list item for many is to witness the Great Migration in the Masai Mara.
Meeting the Maasai people and learn about their rich cultural heritage.
If a beach holiday is more your thing, why not relax on the white sands of Diani Beach, the spot where the Indian Ocean meets the African coast.
Kenya is a land of unmatched beauty and rich biodiversity make it an ideal destination for those seeking to reconnect or form a deeper connection with nature.
Morocco: The Gateway to Africa
The sights, smells and sounds of Morocco offers a complete sensory experience, from bustling markets to serene deserts. This North African gem is a cultural melting pot of Berber, Arab, and European influences.
Top 3 Unmissable Experiences:
Wander the winding alleys of Marrakech’s medina, where you will discover so much more than you can imagine. Vibrant colours, flavours, and unforgettable architecture are just some of what you will find
Explore the Sahara Desert by taking a camel ride through the golden dunes and end the evening off with a traditional feast in the dessert under the stars
If history and tradition are more your scene, then you should defiantly make a point of exploring the blue-washed streets of Chefchaouen.
Morocco’s melting pot of vibrant colors, flavors, and architecture create an unforgettable tapestry of experiences you will not forget
Tanzania: The Land of Wonders
Home to iconic landmarks like Mount Kilimanjaro and Serengeti National Park, well know Stone Town and of course QUEEN’S front man, Freddie Mercuri Tanzania is a must-visit for adventurers and nature lovers.
Top 3 Unmissable Experiences:
Adrenaline Junkies can Climb Africa’s highest peak, Mount Kilimanjaro.
Relax on the idyllic beaches of Zanzibar, with its crystal-clear waters and coral reefs.
Go on a safari in the Ngorongoro Crater, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Tanzania offers a perfect mix of adventure, tranquility, and awe-inspiring scenery.
Ghana: The Cultural Heartbeat of West Africa
Ghana is known for its warm hospitality, vibrant culture, and rich history. It’s a destination that will leave you both enlightened and inspired.
Top 3 Unmissable Experiences:
Walk through the dark corridors of Cape Coast Castle, a sobering reminder of the transatlantic slave trade.
Celebrate life at one of Ghana’s colorful festivals, like the Chale Wote Street Art Festival.
Relax on the serene beaches of the Gold Coast.
Ghana invites you to explore its history, connect with its people, and immerse yourself in its lively traditions.
Namibia: A Desert Dreamland
Namibia’s surreal landscapes and unique wildlife make it a destination unlike any other. Its vast deserts and rugged coastline provide the perfect backdrop for adventure and introspection.
Unmissable Experiences:
Explore the otherworldly dunes of Sossusvlei in the Namib Desert.
Discover the eerie beauty of the Skeleton Coast.
Witness the desert-adapted elephants of Damaraland. Namibia is a testament to nature’s ability to inspire wonder and reflection.
Creating Unforgettable Memories in Africa
To truly celebrate Africa, immerse yourself in its essence. Here are a few tips to make your journey unforgettable:
Try Connect with Locals: Engage with the people who call Africa home. Their stories, traditions, and hospitality will enrich your experience.
Seek Authentic Experiences: Choose activities that allow you to explore Africa’s culture and natural beauty authentically, whether it’s learning traditional crafts or trekking through remote landscapes.
Embrace the Unexpected: Africa has a way of surprising travelers. Be open to detours, unexpected encounters, and moments of serendipity.
Capture the Magic: Keep a journal, take photos, or create videos to preserve the memories you make.
Use this festive season, with friends family and loved ones, to get sense of what memories they would like to create more of. Remember, Africa is more than a destination; it’s a celebration of life in its rawest and most beautiful form. Whether you’re chasing wildlife in Kenya, walking through history in Ghana, or finding peace on a Namibian dune, Africa offers countless ways to create unforgettable memories. Embrace the continent’s diversity and let it transform your soul.
So, pack your bags, set your spirit free, and let Africa show you how to celebrate life, one unforgettable experience at a time.
Chris Midgley News correspondent
