AFRICA VIRGIN ATLANTIC APPOINTS SIMON NEWTON SMITH SOUTH AMERICA’S COUNTRY MANAGER Virgin Atlantic has announced the appointment of Simon Newton Smith as its new Country Manager in South Africa. Simon replaced Richard Myerscough, who will be moving to become Country Manager for Virgin Atlantic in Japan. Simon’s new role, which is based in Johannesburg, means he’ll be responsible for the airline’s South African operation, SIMON NEWTON SMITH which includes a daily service between Johannesburg and London Heathrow, and a seasonal service between London Heathrow and Cape Town from October until April. Simon will also be responsible for the airline’s operation in Mauritius. Simon arrives in South Africa from New York where he held the post of Vice President Sales, North America, for the past five years. Simon began his career with Virgin Atlantic in 1990, based at its London headquarters before becoming Sales and Marketing Manager Australia, and New Zealand. Prior to his most recent role in the U.S., Simon was Vice President Sales, North America, for South African Airways. Jon Harding, General Manager, International and Distribution, commented, “It gives me great pleasure to welcome Simon into his role in South Africa. Simon brings a wealth of experience to his new post and I wish him every success for the future as Virgin Atlantic continues to support and promote our Johannesburg and Cape Town routes.” Since it was founded in 1984, Virgin Atlantic has become one of the world’s leading long-haul airlines serving the world’s major cities. It operates long-haul services to 30 destinations worldwide. Virgin Atlantic, www.virginatlantic.com
SABI SABI APPOINTS WARREN GREEN AND ASSOCIATES NEW U.S. MARKETING REPRESENTATIVE Sabi Sabi Private Game Reserve, a premier private safari game reserve in South Africa, has named Warren Green and Associates (WGA) as the U.S. and Canada marketing representative. Warren, a South African, who for the past decade has promoted lodges and resorts to the North American travel trade, also spent several years as a conservation officer, guide and manager at Sabi Sabi before moving to the U.S. in 2000. He has also successfully grown international travel icons such as Rovos Rail and Grootbos’ Private Nature Reserve in the North American market. “We are absolutely thrilled to be working with Warren Green in 38 • FEBRUARY 2010
his new venture,” says Sabi Sabi Marketing Director Jacques Smit. “There are many synergies connecting us: from Warren’s in-depth knowledge of the South African bushveld and his extensive experience at our lodges, to his exemplary track record in America,” says Smit. “His company’s focus on green initiatives and sustainable ecotourism destinations is an ideal match for the Sabi Sabi philosophy of offering a safari experience that is both luxurious and responsible. We have a recognized, award-winning conservation program, have been honored with numerous awards for five-star excellence (including Travel & Leisure’s 3rd Best Hotel in the World–2009) and were the first game lodge in South Africa to receive a Fair Trade in Tourism accreditation from the World Conservation Union (IUCN).” Sabi Sabi just recently celebrated its 30th anniversary in the safari industry. Sabi Sabi Private Game Reserve, reservations@sabisabi.com, www.sabisabi.com; Warren Green and Associates, warren@warrengreenandassociates.com, www.warrengreenandassociates.com
LUXURY CAPE TOWN DELUXE TOUR OFFERED BY LION WORLD TOURS Lion World Tours is presenting Luxury Cape Town, an exciting journey to South Africa that includes the opportunity to explore two distinct areas and enjoy accommodation in two unique hotels: 15 on Orange in Cape Town and Rijk’s Country Lodge on Rijk’s Wine Farm, minutes from Tulbagh. Each location has its own character and tempo from the bustle of Cape Town to the calm of the wine farm. The Luxury Cape Town package is only $1,699 ppdo for six nights and includes five-star accommodation and international airfare. The price does not include a $300 fuel surcharge and $140 tax. Single supplement is $470. The trip price includes international flights: New York or Washington/Johannesburg/New York or Washington, South Africa domestic flights: Johannesburg/Cape Town/Johannesburg, all services as specified, all transfers as specified, accommodations as specified, meals as specified, transportation in luxury airconditioned vehicles with the service of qualified drivers, and South African Airways Vacations Representative Meet and Greet upon arrival. Not included are items of a personal nature such as laundry, telephone calls, drinks, etc., all other services not mentioned; gratuities/tips for guides and drivers; new Government taxes, levies, fuel or industry increases beyond Lion World Tours’ control; costs of obtaining passports or visas; and trip cancellation insurance. U.S.A. passport holders do not require a visa for South Africa for a visit of less than 90 days. Full terms and conditions are available on the website. Lion World Tours, 800-387-2706, www.lionworldtours.com www.travelworldnews.com • Travel World News