TRAVEL NEWS WEEKLY

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SouThERN AFRICA’S TRAVEL NEWS WEEKLYJuly 30 2014 I No. 2311

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FeatureSportS touriSmIncentive market is still strong

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Feature

Double-digit growth from SAPage 2

NeWSNeW ImmIgrATIoN LAW

Passengers to bear burden

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Iata default insurance coming soonDorine reinstein

IATA’s Default Insurance Programme (DIP) is in the final stages of approval and

will soon be available to all travel agents in South Africa.

Asata has been working closely with Iata’s APJC (Agency Programme Joint Council) to establish a default insurance product to protect travel agencies. The association resurrected talks with members of the APJC in May last year. In the latest Asata newsletter, ceo, otto de Vries, said the new insurance programme would be available within a few months.

The Default Insurance Programme is already available in other parts of the world and has proved to be an effective solution for both airlines and agents to ensure financial security for the airline industry.

The programme is designed to indemnify Iata airline members against loss from the financial default of a ticketing agent enrolled in the programme up to an agreed limit. The DIP is an alternative to the bank guarantee initially being collected from the agents as collateral.

Lidia Folli, chief financial officer of Tourvest Travel Services and chairperson of the APJC, says up until now the programme has not been available in South Africa because Iata hadn’t identified a suitable insurance provider that answered all the necessary and stringent requirements imposed by the association.

However, Iata has now identified a suitable provider in South Africa and is “quite far down the line in the accreditation process” says

Lidia. She explains that, in general, the accreditation process takes between 60 and 90 days but it can take longer if Iata requires more information. “Only once the insurance provider has been approved will we know more about the details of the DIP .”

The possible advantages of a DIP as opposed to a bank guarantee will depend on the size of the travel agency, Lidia says. She says there is often a misconception that the DIP is more suitable for smaller agencies and the bank guarantee is more suitable for larger companies. The truth is that the bank guarantee is calculated on the annual number of cash BSP sales. Therefore, sometimes a bank guarantee could prove to be more advantageous for a small company with few cash sales, she says.

The City Lodge Group has been recognised by the Green Leaf Eco-Standard for significant improvements regarding environmental responsibility. Recently, the group embarked on a water efficiency programme across the City Lodge brand, focusing on efficient flow technology for shower heads and taps, dual-flush toilets and the re-using of towels. The intention is to roll this out across all its brands in due course. Pictured here, squeaky clean and environmentally friendly, is Peter Schoeman, divisional director of sales and marketing for the City Lodge Hotel Group. Photo: Shannon Van Zyl.

going green!

eTravel launches low-cost modelChana BouCher

ETRAVEL has launched a ‘low-cost’ ITC option called Just the Ticket (JtT) for consultants who, as the name suggests, just want a ticket without any of the back office support.

Garth Wolff, ceo of eTravel, compares the relationship

between eTravel and JtT to that of low-cost carrier kulula.com and Comair. Corporate consultants are required to not only book travel for their clients but also to provide a number of back-office functions such as invoicing, recon, feedback, presentations and so on. Leisure travellers

on the other hand, says Garth, require very little, often just needing an air ticket.

He explains that JtT is a scaled-down version of the ITC model that allows ITCs to book a flight through eTravel and do the land arrangements and admin themselves.

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2 n Wednesday July 30 2014 QUICK READ FOR DECISION-MAKERS

NEWS

Rubes® By Leigh Rubin

Phone: (011) 327-4062 Fax: (011) 327-4094 E-mail: tnw@nowmedia.co.za Web: www.nowmedia.co.za Address: Now Media Centre, 32 Fricker Road, Illovo Boulevard, Illovo, Johannesburg. PO Box 55251, Northlands, 2116, South Africa.

TRAVEL NEWS WEEKLY

Published by Travel & Trade Publishing (Pty) Ltd Printed by Juka Printing (Pty) Ltd

www.etnw.co.za

Founding Editors: John H Marsh (1914-1996) Leona Marsh (1923-2003)

EDITORIAL Editor: Natasha Tippel natashat@nowmedia.co.za Features Editor: Michelle Colman michellec@nowmedia.co.za Contributors: Debbie Badham Chana Boucher Hilka Birns Caro Malherbe Dorine Reinstein Photographer: Shannon Van Zyl Production Editor: Ann Braun

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PRODuCTION Design Head: Dirk Voorneveld

subsCRIPTIONs Circulation tvlsubs@nowmedia.co.za

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Nikita Tavlet selects the top specials from Travelinfo

Thai Airways International. ‘Hello Asia’ promo fares: All-inclusive fares are from R7 477 ex-JNB to Bangkok, Phuket, Krabi, Chiang Mai and Chiang Rei. Fares to Hong Kong are from R8 820, Kuala Lumpur from R8 970, Singapore from R9 050 and Bali from R9 888. Fares to China and Australia are also available. Fares are saleable until September 15. Travel permitted until September 30. British T.I.P.S. ‘Views of London’ package. Hop-On, Hop-Off bus, Thames cruise, London Eye and View from

The Shard. Offer is valid for travel until February 28. Adult rates R1 840 per person. Children (4-15 years) R1 150 per child. Air Mauritius. Winter Sale: Fly to Mauritius ex-JNB in economy class from R2 100 return.

Fare excludes all airport taxes and surcharges of approximately R3 782. Valid for travel between July 21 and September 25. Pure Sport. Dubai 7s packages from R11 990pp sharing. Packages

include airport-hotel-airport transfers, three nights’ accommodation at the Grand Excelsior Hotel with breakfast daily, return transfers to the Sevens stadium, match ticket, UAE single-entry visa and travel insurance. Rate excludes flights and airport taxes. Available for travel from December 4-7. Protea Hotel Balalaika. ‘Winter Getaways Promotion’. Rates are

from R600pps and include breakfast, glühwein, 500mb WiFi throughout the hotel, use of the in-house gym and Sandton shuttle service. Offer is available Friday to Sunday until September 30.

Specials Spot

New immigration law: passengers to bear burdenDorine reinstein

WHEN new immigration regulations come into effect on October 1,

it will be the responsibility of passengers to ensure they have the correct documentation or risk being denied boarding. But this is where travel agents can show their expertise and add value to their clients, say industry authorities.

SA Minister of Home Affairs, Malusi Gigaba, recently stated that regulations under the new Immigration Act requiring families travelling with children to produce an unabridged birth certificate would not be scrapped.

Although airlines will do everything to keep passengers informed, ultimately it will be passengers’ responsibility to know what is required, says Simon Newton-Smith, Virgin Atlantic’s head of Middle East and Africa. He says it’s not feasible for airlines to issue prompt messages online with every booking. Regulations for different countries change on a regular basis, often with little notice to airlines. If the airline prompts a message with the wrong information, it will be

held liable. However, he says airlines will continue to issue communications to the travel trade.

The confusion around the Act presents an opportunity for travel agents to add value to their clients, says Asata ceo, Otto de Vries. “The regulations and communication thereof are another example of where travel agents can equip themselves with knowledge and show their customers they’re not only aware of the situation, but are also proactively working on behalf of the client.”

Mladen Lukic, gm of Travel Counsellors, agrees, saying the new regulations will demonstrate the value of the travel agent to the general public. He adds, however, that clients have seen travel agents as advisers instead of mere booking agents for quite some time now. He says travel agents need to continue to explain to their clients how they’re adding value and what they can offer them that the Internet can’t.

But although travel agents can prove their worth by raising awareness about the new regulations, they can’t apply for the necessary documentation

on behalf of their clients, which can be a challenge, says Mladen. “Clients are looking to us to make things happen but this is where our hands are tied.” He says the DHA has not been as efficient as they promised they would be, which has created certain complications for clients that the travel agent can’t solve.

Claude Vankeirsbilck, chief sales and marketing officer for Tourvest Travel Services, says the company has communicated the implications of the new regulations to both corporate and leisure customers using communication channels such as newsletters and through online social media.

June Crawford, Barsa ceo, says: “Airlines have already added the requirements on their websites to assist in the facilitation of the DHA’s requirements.” She says travel agents can also access info through Iata Timatic, a global instrument, to verify travel documentation requirements for contributing countries.

Asata is compiling a list of FAQs based on questions sent through by its members, which will be released soon, says Otto.

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6 n Wednesday July 30 2014 QUICK READ FOR DECISION-MAKERS

NEWS

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Easy visasThe French government is exploring ways to make it easier for South Africans to apply for visas to visit France, says French Consul in South Africa, Raymond Quereilhac. He was speaking at the Bastille Day celebrations earlier this month. Raymond said the government was considering long-stay visas and ways to shorten processing times. Bastille Day is a national holiday in France that commemorates the beginning of the French Revolution with the Storming of the Bastille on July 14 1789. This year, the special event was dedicated to France’s best kept secret, Réunion Island, an ideal destination for sporty holiday-goers or active honeymooners and a visa-free destination for South Africans. Pictured here at the special event are (from left): Hélène Bezuidenhoudt (ATOUT France), and Alexis Bekker (LUX* Resorts). Photo: Natasha Tippel

More capacity and new product on CPT routeNatasha tippel

LUFTHANSA and Edelweiss will increase their seasonal, non-stop

services and capacity to Cape Town for the South African summer season.

Lufthansa will increase capacity on its Cape Town flights from the end of October, using a bigger aircraft – the A340 600. This will add 30% more capacity to the route during the peak season. The additional capacity was in response to increased demand on the route, said Tamur Goudarzi-Pour, Lufthansa’s new vp for the Middle East, Africa and Southeast Europe.

Over a period of three months, Edelweiss will also increase its capacity by over 30% to and from the Mother City. The airline will up its seasonal non-stop schedule between Cape Town and

Zurich from December 3 to March 11 from two to three weekly frequencies. Flights will operate each Wednesday in addition to the existing flights on Tuesdays and Fridays.

The additional flight will be operated by an A330 equipped with 52 fully lie-flat seats in business class and 183 seats in economy class.

New productBoth airlines’ long-haulfleets are currently undergoing refurbishment.

Lufthansa is in the process of rolling out its new business class on all aircraft. Currently, 25% of its A380s on the Johannesburg route have been reconfigured. The refurbishment was expected to be complete within the first quarter of next year, Tamur said.

Edelweiss business class

is being equipped with lie-flat seats and a new in-flight entertainment system with 41cm screens.

Concurrently, the airline is introducing a new premium economy class, Economy Max, which will offer passengers 15cm more leg-room. Edelweiss economy class is also receiving a makeover, with new seats and a new in-flight entertainment system with touch-screen technology. By the end of October, when the seasonal flights kick in, the cabin refurbishment will be complete.

Lufthansa’s new premium product, which offers 50% more personal space than economy, is now bookable. The first flight featuring the new product on the Johannesburg route, will be on April 22. “We are already seeing a strong booking trend for the product,” Tamur said.

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8 n Wednesday July 30 2014 QUICK READ FOR DECISION-MAKERS

NEWS

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You’re invited to an exclusive sales event! CRYSTAL Cruises is inviting the SA travel industry to participate in another Exclusive Sales Event, open to just a few select industries across the world. The event is valid until July 31 and lets agents show clients the value they offer, as the exclusive price offers are not available online or through most international agencies. Aside from special deals, the event offers up to US$750pp (R8 000) on-board credit. This can be used towards shore excursions, private tours or spa vouchers – activities that clients would usually have to pay for. To participate in the event, agents can visit www.shipmates.co.za, for a list of the 2014 and 2015 sailings as well as the on-board credits per sailing. Alternatively, use the following link http://www.cruises.co.za/Crystal-Cruises/Exclusive-July-Savings-TRADE.html.

Norwegian revamps fleetTHE ‘Norwegian Next’ programme will see Norwegian Cruise Line spending US$250m (R2,66bn) on renovations, upgrades and enhancements to destinations and experiences. The programme includes dining enhancements, new experiences in entertainment and guest activities and new technology and destinations. Throughout 2015, NCL will work on vessels, including Norwegian Jewel, Norwegian Pearl, Norwegian Sky and Norwegian Spirit, which were also recently refurbished.

Oceania Cruises introduces Bon Appétit classes OCEANIA Cruises will offer new classes for the Bon Appétit Culinary Centres on-board Marina and Riviera and with two new Culinary Discovery Tours ashore. Oceania Cruises is introducing two new Culinary Discovery Tours for Cork, Ireland, and Palma de Mallorca, Balearic Islands. In Cork, guests spend a day at the cooking school at Ballymaloe country estate, where they tour the herb gardens, explore the free-range poultry farm, watch a cooking demonstration of a traditional Irish meal and enjoy dishes from the Cookery School Gardens. In Palma de Mallorca guests tour a marketplace, sample olive oils at a country farm and have lunch at El Faro restaurant.

DreamBoatsSend your cruising news to debbieb@nowmedia.co.zaFastjet strengthens

presence in Africa Debbie baDham

FASTJET is extending its reach within Africa with a number of developments

on the continent, in spite of increasing competition.

In response to demand, four return flights a week are being added on its Dar es Salaam and Mwanza route, on Sundays, Mondays, Fridays and Saturdays, bringing total return flights each week to 25. Flights are scheduled to commence on August 1.

From August 17, fastjet will also operate an additional return flight on Sundays between Dar es Salaam and Lusaka, bringing the number of flights linking Tanzania and

Zambia to four a week. Meanwhile, ticket sales for

its new Dar es Salaam-Harare route, due to start operating on August 5, have been strong, says Richard Bodin, fastjet chief commercial officer.

The airline hopes to have a base in Lusaka up and running in the near future. “The project to obtain our Air Operator Certificate is well under way and things are moving forward positively,” Richard says.

He says in-depth discussions and planning are taking place in Kenya with regard to the establishment of a new airline in the region, under the fastjet brand. The company recently disposed of its holding in Fly540 Kenya. “At the end of

the day, we decided it would make more sense to apply for a brand-new AOC,” he says.

“We are rapidly developing flights across Africa into South Africa.” The aim, he says, is to increase fastjet’s presence in SA by linking multiple destinations to Johannesburg. He says fastjet’s route between Dar es Salaam and Johannesburg continues to grow, and is a strong route.

Richard believes fastjet’s success in Africa has attracted new competition in the way of LCCs such as flyafrica.com. “There are 1,1 billion people in Africa, representing a vast untapped market. As such, we believe that competition can only be a good thing.”

Letter to the Editor

Don’t overlook localsWe recently hosted a cocktail function at one of our new properties and the guests included many local business people, all of whom are passionate about their community and proud of what their neighbourhood has to offer. They are excited yet desperate for us to succeed as new owners and operators of their much-loved hotel.

This got me thinking. How careless we, as hotel owners or managers, are in the way we treat the local markets, albeit unconsciously! We maintain our clear-cut marketing strategies after years of providing less than decent service to the local market, retaining high charges for food and beverages coupled with

an élitist approach that considers inbound markets but does not value the locals. We concentrate more on the perceived lucrative markets, such as corporate, conferencing and groups, all the while whittling away at local confidence – a market that votes with its feet and often, after many consecutive years of disappointment, ultimately stays away for good.

Often, through a combination of sheer ignorance and a lack of understanding of the local markets – particularly those within a 5km radius of our hotels – our main market, the locals, are overlooked. Some people are getting it right. Domestic wholesalers are trying to encourage the package market to stimulate

domestic tourism but it’s not enough. Hotels need to identify the locals as a separate market segment – which requires dedicated marketing actions through skilled hands on a daily, weekly and monthly basis.

Our challenge is to drive value to this market segment, via value-added and interesting food and beverage offerings, amenities and targeted events to draw demand to the entire property, resulting in spin-offs in room sales and additional discretionary spending throughout our hotels.

Let’s make every effort to get those locals back!

Guy StehlikCeo and founder, BON Hotels

Thailand – quote, book and payCHECKOuT Tours, a wholesaler specialising in the Far East, particularly Thailand, recently become a preferred supplier of the Club Travel group.

Agents can quote, book and pay on the company’s website. ”The bottom tool bar is an agent sales tool bar that allows you to save your quotes

and either use for future reference or email to your clients in a quick, seamless manner,” says Giles Clinton, who heads up the company. “We also offer a white label solution to agents where they can get an exact replica of our site but with all their own branding.”

QUICK READ FOR bUSIESt pEOplE Wednesday July 30 2014 n 9

STAKING its claim as one of the top holiday destinations for South Africans, Thailand has

seen double-digit percentage growth in arrivals since the start of this year.

Between January and May, the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) reported 22% growth from the SA market with almost 33 200 travellers arriving in the country. TAT has also cited South Africa as one of its top-five growth markets.

With more South Africans on repeat visits, there is greater expectation for new destinations, activities and tours. Tour operators specialising in the destination have anticipated these demands and are seeding them into the market.

Karen Camm, product manager – Far East at Holiday Tours, recommends three destinations that she says are fast becoming popular options for South Africans: Krabi, Khao Lak and Koh Yao Noi. “Krabi used to be a popular add-on to Phuket but is becoming increasingly popular as a stand-alone destination,” says Karen. “Its tourist attractions include the distinctive limestone cliffs that line the 150km coastline, white sandy beaches, crystal-clear water, extensive coral reefs, numerous caves and waterfalls, and over 130 islands.”

Lal Jayamaha, md of Serendipity Tours, says more South Africans are spending their holidays on islands such as Phi Phi and Koh Samui, adding that the number of visitors to Kao Lak, Koh Lanta and Koh Phangan are

on the increase too.Thai Airways’ marketing

representative in South Africa, Tom Liangman, believes that Hua Hin is a relatively undiscovered destination for South Africans. “It is a short distance from Bangkok – only two hours away – and there are plenty of attractions, including night markets selling local handmade crafts, four- and five-star beachfront hotels, the King's palace and heritage sites.”

Torshie Obodai, product assistant – Far East at Thompsons Holidays, also sees the potential in Hua Hin as an upcoming destination, adding that it’s a perfect romantic destination for couples and honeymooners.

The unspoilt Khanom Beach in south-east Thailand tops the list for Lesley Simpson of the South African Representative Office for TAT.

Activities here have a more cultural focus, while local boats take tourists to catch a glimpse of the famous pink dolphins off the coastline. Lesley notes that Khanom can be packaged with Koh Samui, making it more affordable for South Africans travelling to this area of the country.

While there are new spots to discover, Shona Pittaway, md of Perfect Destinations, says looking for undiscovered spots in popular areas works well for her clients: “In Phuket, for example, a stay on Rawai Beach away from the crowds is quieter and more relaxing and the hotels are of a good standard. Rawai is a small fishing village and one can attend the

market and buy the fish from the local people as it comes in and then get the restaurant across the road to cook it for you – a great local experience!”

For travellers seeking more about the culture and heritage of Thailand, JJ Carr, product manager at The Holiday Factory, recommends Chiang Mai. “Chiang Mai is distinctly different from the rest of Thailand – even the

food has its own character and is really quite special. There are also some great options for outdoor enthusiasts, including white-water rafting, bamboo rafting, zip lining and hiking.”

Thailand’s myriad of options ensures that travel agents can offer new twists on travellers’ packages and tour operators agree that there is still plenty to be discovered.

Clients who are on a repeat visit to Thailand are looking for new destinations and activities. Kate Els looks at some alternatives to the usual fare.

Double-digit growth from SA Fam and fun A group of South African operators recently joined TAT on a fam trip to discover alternative offerings for their clients. Checking out Phuket old town’s market are (from left): Tracey Visscher (Flightsite) and Shona Pittaway (Perfect Destinations).

Time out on a tuk tuk discovering new sights in Bangkok (from left): Henda Heyneke (Heyneke Tours); Tracey Visscher (Flightsite) and Lal Jayamaha (Serendipity Tours).Photos: Kate Els

Fly THAI, the fastest airline direct to Bangkok and beyond.Hello Asia

EX-JNB Journey to Price From

Bangkok R 7477Phuket/Krabi/ Chiang Mai R 7477Singapore R 9050Hong Kong R 8820Kuala Lumpur R 8970Bali R 9888Shanghai/Beijing/ Guangzhou R 10038Tokyo/Osaka R 10373Sydney R 12720Melbourne/Brisbane R 12545Limited seats available per flight. More destinations are available

For more information call (011) 463-5042 or www.thaiair.co.za

Terms and Conditions apply.Offer is valid from now to 15 September 2014. Valid for travelling from now to 30 September 2014. This fare is inclusive estimated of taxes and fuel surcharges (correct as at 01 July 2014) and is subject to change due to currency fluctuation and availability.

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Travel Thailand your way

SA Representative office for Tourism Authority of Thailand

Tel: 011 463 8622Fax: 011 463 8196

Email: info@amazingthailandsa.co.zaTwitter: @thailandsa

www.facebook.com/amazingthailandinsouthafricaTNW7154

QUICK READ FOR bUsIEst pEOplE Wednesday July 30 2014 n 11

TAT introduces insurance policiesRECOGNISING the difficulties for insurance brokers to issue sufficient travel insurance while the country is under martial law, the Tourism Authority of Thailand has partnered with three insurance brokers to introduce travel insurance for any inbound travel. The policies aim to increase the confidence of travellers who want to visit Thailand says TAT,

facilitating their holiday plans and minimising disruption.

The companies that offer immediate coverage are Muang Thai Insurance, Chao Phaya Insurance and Siam City Insurance. Premiums start from THB 650 (R217) and the highest sum insured is THB 1m (R333 240) with full coverage including accidents, trip cancellation, loss or damage of baggage

or personal belongings, accommodation fees in the case of an airport being closed, and 24-hour emergency assistance by Allianz Global Assistance.

An online portal to purchase these insurance policies was launched on July 15. Once insurance has been paid for, coverage is immediate and a copy of the policy will be emailed to the traveller.

Participate in mega-fam trip TAT is set to host its Best Friends Forever Mega-Fam trip between late July and early August, inviting over 800 tour operators and media from across the world to experience different parts of the country simultaneously. The trip will see a South

African group visiting Bangkok, Kanchanaburi and Hua Hin.

“The objective behind the Best Friends Forever Mega-Fam trip 2014 is to highlight that, regardless of a military coup in Bangkok in May, the political situation has not had any impact

whatsoever on tourism to this beautiful country. Creating ongoing awareness of Thailand at this time is critical. It is ‘business as usual’ in the Kingdom of Smiles,” says Lesley Simpson, South African Representative Office for TAT.

New package from Holiday ToursA NEW seven-night package from Holiday Tours is ideal for travellers looking for a beach holiday just a short flight from Bangkok. The package includes seven nights’ accommodation at

the Sea Sun Sand Resort in Patong, Phuket, at R10 125pps.

It includes return economy-class airfare to Phuket via Bangkok, including current pre-

payable airport taxes and fuel levies, return airport transfers and breakfast daily as well as a full-day Phi Phi Island tour including lunch. Valid for booking until September 15.

Suggest these hotels... THESE three hotels, recommended by TAT may not be new, but they cater well for the South African market. Shangri-La Bangkok: A

great incentive option, this hotel is on the Chao Phraya River and has views over the water. After a recent refurbishment, the hotel has 800 rooms in two wings and is near the city’s

shopping and entertainment district.

The Treasure Resort, Koh Madsun: Located on the island of Koh Madsun near Koh Samui, the island is an idyllic beach destination for travellers looking for isolation. It has 50 villas scattered across the beachfront, a fine dining restaurant and a spa.

Racha Kiri Resort & Spa: Near Khanom Beach, this boutique resort has 33 suites set out in a traditional Thai village style. It is away from major tourist tracks but is opposite the beaches of Koh Samui and can be reached easily by boat. The airport, which is 50 minutes away, provides air access to the island.

Travel Thailand your way

SA Representative office for Tourism Authority of Thailand

Tel: 011 463 8622Fax: 011 463 8196

Email: info@amazingthailandsa.co.zaTwitter: @thailandsa

www.facebook.com/amazingthailandinsouthafricaTNW7154

The Vana Nava Hua Hin Water Jungle is set for an October opening, just ahead of the peak tourist season in Thailand. It will target families holidaying in Hua Hin, a popular beach town south of Bangkok known for its golf courses. The water park is set around waterways and a 30-metre-high waterfall and is ideal for children, while parents will be catered for in private pavilions. An adventure zone and main stage for concerts will also form part of the park’s features. Photo: Vana Nava Hua Hin Water Jungle

Adventure park for Hua Hin

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Dorine Reinstein speaks to industry experts to find out about the value of outbound sports tourism in the South African market.

Accent shifts to incentives

THE value of the outbound sports tourism market to South Africa is difficult

to quantify as there is no reliable data available for this sector of the travel industry, says Greg Taylor, gm of Pure Tours. Contributing to the fragmentation of this data, is that sports events tend to be included in business or leisure trips and are rarely stand-alone holidays. Nevertheless, 15 years of experience in the game, leaves Greg estimating the market to be a fair size.

Tertia Summerford, marketing manager at Edusport, says the cyclical nature of sports travel, peaking around big events such as World Cups, makes it difficult to quantify the outbound sports tourism sector. “Travel is also dependent on how well a particular team is doing,” she says. “For example, more travellers would have gone to Brazil if Bafana made it through.”

Although she can’t give year-on-year figures, Tertia says Edusport sent over 2 000 supporters to Brazil for the Soccer World Cup 2014, while in 2011 it sent over 1 200 fans to the Rugby World Cup in New Zealand.

The company anticipates the same numbers for next year’s Rugby World Cup in England. “As official travel agents for the Hong Kong Sevens, Edusport sends some 150 to 200 passengers each year to this tournament.”

Jimmy Kuys, business development manager at Sure Makro Sports Travel, also saw an impressive demand for the Rugby World Cup in New Zealand, and expects yet more for the World Cup in England next year. “There are a lot more flights available to the UK than to New Zealand, which makes it a lot easier for travellers. This will be a big World Cup for South African travellers, despite the fact that it is going to be very expensive.”

According to Jimmy, the price for the Rugby World Cup has gone up considerably over the years. He recalls the World Cup in Wales in 1999, when the exchange rate was R10 to the pound and packages would sell from R17 000pps. Today, the rand trades at just over R18 to the pound. Combined with inflation, this means packages have quadrupled in price. A package for the semi-finals or finals in England

now starts at about R80 000pps for a 10-night stay and economy-class flights. “The man in the street does not have that kind of money,” says Jimmy.

High package prices combined with pressure on disposable income have led to an overall decline in sports travel, according to Jimmy, but fortunately the incentive market is still going strong when it comes to sports tourism. In 1999, he says, there was a 50/50 split between incentive travellers and leisure travellers. Today, the balance has shifted, with 90% incentive bookings and 10% individual bookings.

Greg has noticed the same strong shift. He says the inclusion of a sports event in an incentive programme is a highly motivating element. “With South Africa having such a rich sporting history, there is always going to be a demand for outbound sports tourism, which I believe is growing along with the success of our local teams and exposure to events through media like DStv. What better way is there to see an exciting new destination than combining it with your favourite sporting event?”

Work through official channelsSPORTS tourism is a lucrative industry that appeals to a great number of travel agents. However, there are some pitfalls that travel agents should keep in mind when venturing into this sector.

According to Greg Taylor, sports tourism is a very specialised field and can be extremely risky at times. “Advance payments have to be made in many cases for tickets, accommodation and flights. If the packages have not been sold before the event they become a perishable good, worthless after the event date.” The same applies for skiing packages, as tour operators commit large financial resources to hotel and flight allocations.

It is important, says Greg, for agents to familiarise themselves as far as possible with events. “When selling sports tourism packages, ticketing is often the hardest part. Finding reliable tickets to events is not as easy as you think. There are so many fake and illegal tickets out there you can’t just deal with any Tom, Dick or Harry. It is therefore advisable to use a reputable tour operator, who has many years of experience

in this niche market.” Jimmy Kuys says travellers

need to be assured that when they leave South Africa their tickets and documentation are in order. Travel agents should work with tour operators with official appointments by official sports bodies.

This is also the advice from Tertia Summerford, who says travel agents should purchase packages through officially appointed channels with a good track record and experience. “It is helpful to have good knowledge about the event, seat allocations and stadium locations. This is all important to ensure the trip runs smoothly.”

Greg Taylor

Phot

o: L

egen

d Lo

dges

14 n Wednesday July 30 2014 QUICK READ FOR DECISION-MAKERS

Look out for these events over the next year...Singapore Grand Prix, September 19-21, 2014

The eighth Rugby World Cup will be held in England with the finals taking place at

Twickenham. Tournament organisers, England 2015, and the International Rugby Board have

confirmed that 2,3m tickets will be available across the tournament’s 48 matches.

Legend Lodges opens new Signature ClubhouseLEGEND Golf & Safari Resort’s much-awaited Signature Course Clubhouse will open in November. The official launch will take place over the weekend of November 27-30 with a host of activities planned.

The Signature Clubhouse is set to

become the hub of the Entabeni resort. It has a pro shop, members’ lounge, second putting green and men’s and ladies’ change rooms.

There are also two new restaurants, a boma, a sky-top bar, an outdoor activity shop and fitness gym.

Specials from Pure Tours See the Manchester

United-Liverpool game from R17 990pps for a three-night package from December 12-15, including accommodation at the Double Tree by Hilton Manchester with breakfast daily. Flights excluded. Travel to the Dubai Sevens

and stay three nights (December 4-7) at the Grand Excelsior Hotel Dubai with breakfast daily. Packages start from R11 990pps including transfers, TIC insurance, visas and memorabilia but exclude flights and taxes. Take advantage of a

R19 250pps special to watch the England-South Africa game in the UK on

November 15. Stay three nights at the Premier Inn Euston with breakfast daily. Price includes match tickets as well as transfers and insurance but excludes flights and taxes. See Ireland vs South Africa

in Dublin in November from R10 810pps. Arrive in

Dublin on November 7 and stay for three nights at a central four-star hotel with full Irish breakfast daily. The package includes tickets, transfers and travel insurance but excludes flights. A package of R16 650pps

is on offer for travellers wanting to see the Wales-South Africa game in November. Arrive in

Wales on November 28 and stay for three nights at a four-star Cardiff hotel with breakfast daily. The price includes hospitality match tickets as well as transfers and TIC insurance. It excludes flights. For the F1 event of

the year in Singapore, Pure Sports is offering packages for R16 660pps. Arriving on September 19 and staying for three nights at the Peninsula Excelsior Hotel. The package includes Padang Grandstand race tickets, as well as transport, travel insurance and accommodation. Flights excluded.

South African Dubai 7s suporters. Photo: PureTours

The event takes place on the island city’s Marina Bay Street Circuit and was the inaugural Formula One night race and the first

street circuit in Asia. Jimmy Kuys says South

Africans love this Grand Prix, as it is so much more than a motor race. This

year, Robbie Williams and Jennifer Lopez will perform at the event, which is “a massive family event” that goes the extra mile.

Cricket World Cup, February 14-March 29, 2015

Australia and New Zealand will host 2015 Cricket World Cup jointly. This is the second such event to be played in Oceania, and is expected to draw South Africans.

A total of 49 matches

will be played in 14 venues. Australia will stage 26 games at grounds in Adelaide, Brisbane, Canberra, Hobart, Melbourne, Perth and Sydney while New Zealand will host 23

games in seven cities, including Auckland, Christchurch, Dunedin, Hamilton, Napier, Nelson and Wellington. The final match of the tournament will take place at the Melbourne Cricket Ground.

Hong Kong Sevens, March 27-29, 2015

Hong Kong is the ultimate destination for all Sevens

fans, providing partying, shopping and three days

of rugby action at Hong Kong Stadium.

Rugby World Cup, September 18-October 31, 2015

Legend Lodges’ signature course, Hanglip. Photo: Legend Lodges

RUGBY WORLD CUP 2015

Wide range of full and “freewheeler” packages available, fit’s and groups. DMC’s & Travel agents welcome.

Contact: Jimmy Kuys:- jimmy@makrotravel.co.zaLouise van der Merwe:- louise@makrotravel.co.zaTel: 011 475 7900

TM © Rugby World Cup Limited 2008 - 2014. All rights reserved

www.makrosporttravel.co.za

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QUICK READ FOR bUSIESt pEOplE Wednesday July 30 2014 n 15

Top five sports tourism trends GReG Taylor shares the top five sports tourism trends for 2014:

➊ Bookings made at the last minute when teams are confirmed.

➋ Only the best available tickets are required by travellers, regardless of extra costs.

➌ Any time, any day – fans are happy to travel

considerable distances to watch their favourite team and fly back in two days if necessary.

➍ Mixing business and pleasure – sports packages are often combined with a business trip.

➎ What recession? As bad as the economy gets, people are always willing to spend on their passions.

Did you know?Sure Makro Sports Travel is official agent for the following upcoming sports tours: Singapore GP (September 21, 2014); Springboks’ Autumn Tour to Ireland, Wales, Italy and England (November 2014); ICC Cricket World Cup, Australia and New Zealand (February/March 2015); Hong Kong Sevens (March 2015); and Rugby World Cup, England (September/October 2015).

Need for speed!

Singapore Airlines is offering packages to the 2014 Formula 1 Singapore Airlines Singapore Grand Prix at the Marina Bay Street Circuit from September 19-21. F1 packages, which include return flights, three nights’ accommodation at selected hotels and race tickets, start from R19 450pps. At the starting line is Brenda Mitchell, direct sales manager. Photo: Shannon Van Zyl

Team Sports promotes F1 packagesTEAM Sports is currently promoting packages for the Italian and Singapore F1 Grands Prix in September, as well as the Abu Dhabi event in November.

All packages offer three-day tickets for grandstand seats, and accommodation in four-star properties, return flights and the services of a tour manager.

The Italy package, priced from R24 595, includes a full day trip to Maranello, the home of Ferrari, and includes lunch. The Singapore deal, from R24 995, includes metro tickets and a branded golf shirt. In Abu Dhabi, the package includes access to after-race concerts.Taxes are excluded.

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16 n Wednesday July 30 2014 QUICK READ FOR DECISION-MAKERS

RepoRt Venue inspectoR

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Join the Namibia Tourism Board on an adventure of discoveryWHEN: 19th August 2014 Johannesburg Protea Hotel Balalaika Sandton

20th August 2014 Cape Town Townhouse Hotel

TIMES: 13:30 – 14:00 Registration 14:00 – 17:00 Workshop 17:00 – 19:00 Networking

RSVP: Nash-Leigh Williams naminfo@saol.com / 021 422 3298

Need Space? Look at Ten Bompas

TNW’s sister publication, Meet, enlisted the help of a meetings expert to

inspect the new conference facilities at boutique hotel, Ten Bompas, in Johannesburg. After a detailed walkthrough and interviews with key staff, the inspector provided us with her independent assessment of the venue.

The inspectorCarla Rossouw is a PCO at Vespasian Consulting. She has been in the industry since 2004 and is a member of SAACI (Southern African Association for the Conference Industry) as well as the PCO Alliance Network. She is based in Pretoria and provides services on a national and international basis. To further enhance her knowledge in all things travel, she is also a travel consultant, travel writer, tour leader and restaurant reviewer on a freelance basis.

What Carla found…The Space Conference Centre is a new addition to Ten Bompas boutique hotel and Winehouse Restaurant. It opened in February.

Its minimalist interior is well suited for conferences and a variety of functions and events. All the venues have natural light and doors open on to the garden. Facilities are fully equipped with standard audio-visual equipment and are multi-functional with retractable walls.

Ten Bompas opened in November 1996, a boutique hotel developed from the original Dunkeld home where owner, Christoff van Staden, lived in his youth. Christoff and partner, Peter Aucamp,

are still the owners today.The Winehouse Restaurant,

an à la carte restaurant, is open to the public and is closed on Sunday evenings. The seasonal menu affords a small selection of delectable, varied and hearty dishes supervised by executive chefs, Andrew Scott Fleet and Johannes de Bruijn. The in-room dining menu is the same as the seasonal à la carte menu and is available from 06h30-22h00. Halaal

and kosher meals can be ordered from an external service provider and carry a surcharge.

This establishment is well run and managed by the very capable Danie Potgieter. I found staff to be friendly and competent. Ten Bompas knows what guests want and delivers a high standard of service. I am confident to refer both business and leisure guests to Ten Bompas.

Quick factsNew conference and function space Big space, double-

volume room suitable for 60-80 guests;

Small space suitable for 20-30 guests;

Big and small space combined, 80-100 guests;

Space lounge can accommodate 10 guests;

Outside patio allows for 20 guests;

Flat grass area suitable for a marquee for up to 80 guests.

Hotel conference and function space The restaurant has

a separate 20-seat private dining room, also suitable for conference sessions;

The main restaurant can host around 50 guests and is also available on an exclusive-use basis;

The upstairs small boardroom can accommodate six guests;

The upstairs bigger boardroom can accommodate 14 guests.

General There are 10 suites, four

of which can be twin; Winehouse Restaurant:

Ten Bompas is comfortable with 80 guests for banquet or conference or 100

guests cocktail style; Complimentary services

to hotel guests include breakfast, uncapped WiFi throughout, extensive mini bar, sparkling wine and fresh fruit on arrival, laundry service, daily afternoon canapés, speciality coffees, parking, shuttle service in the area, including Rosebank (closest) and Sandton (most convenient) Gautrain stations;

Room facilities include lounge, dual fireplace, Nespresso coffee machine, I-pod docking station with electronic alarm, CD player, bedding and pillow options, steam shower, separate bath, double basin, separate guest toilet, Charlotte Rhys and L’Occitane amenities, slippers and gowns;

Green aspects include organic vegetable and herb garden, LED lighting throughout, rainwater tanks for irrigation, worm farm and recycling of paper, glass, plastic and cans;

Conveniently located, close to Hyde Park shopping centre and many other facilities and attractions;

Ample parking and 24/7 security;

Room rates (two pax, including breakfast) from R3 500.

The venue in under 60 secondsFor more on Ten Bompas, including slideshows, panoramic shots of the venue and interviews with the gm, Danie Potgieter and owner Peter Aucamp, visit www.meetmag.co.za and click on the August issue.

DCP rates from R525

Decor throughout Ten Bompas has a clean, minimalist look. Photos: Shannon Van Zyl and Ten Bompas

QUICK READ FOR bUSIESt pEOplE Wednesday July 30 2014 n 17

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Tsogo Sun hosted members of the travel industry for a Mini Indaba at the Pivot, Montecasino in Johannesburg on July 17 and 18. Attendees were able to view a range of Tsogo Sun properties and meet with the group’s general and sales managers. Taking the opportunity to network are (from left): Gary Reed (Southern Sun The Cullinan); Thato Malau (CWT Vodacom); and Norman Wallace (Tsogo Sun Hotels). Photo: Shannon Van Zyl

Tsogo Sun hosts Mini Indaba

Cruise goers want more overnight stays Debbie baDham

THE appeal of vibrant city nightlife is becoming an increasingly important

draw card for cruise goers, resulting in more cruise operators including overnight stays in their itineraries.

“If I look at some of the 2016 itineraries, there are more overnight stays than ever before,” says commercial manager of Cruises International, Tracey Krog.

“The trend doesn’t only relate to small ship luxury cruise lines – the mass market cruise lines are moving towards overnight stays too,” says Tracey. “While spending up to eight hours in a city during the day is a great treat, simply letting the afternoon take

guests wherever it leads them is a great benefit of ‘overnighting’. Guests are curious to experience the city once the sun sets. Cruise lines have taken cognisance of this and are adjusting their deployment accordingly,” she says, adding that overnight stays are particularly popular with repeat cruisers.

Jackie Adami, md of Development Promotions, says operators are seeing more itineraries with longer stopovers at each port of call. “Guests can enjoy a relaxing stay while exploring each destination en route and not having the pressure of trying to see as much as possible in a short period of time. We wouldn’t say that there is a demand for stopovers as this is a fairly new concept but it is being

very well received by clients and certainly is a great selling point.”

The decision to implement overnight stays is largely dependent on the city and its appeal as a night destination. “Overnight stays are generally made available in ports where there are an extensive number of sights. They might occur at the start or end of a voyage but also mid-voyage with the ship docked for several days in one port. For example, St Petersburg or Myanmar,” says Gaynor Neil, gm of Cruise Vacations.

Other cities that top this list are Sydney, Hong Kong, Bangkok, Singapore, Cape Town, Istanbul, Kusadasi and Rome, says Ian Mathews, sales and marketing manager of Triton Cape Sea Travel.

Advocate Louis Nel discusses Data Subject Participation (part 2) in his series on the Protection of Personal Information Act

From Louis the Lawyer – POPI

THE right to correct personal information (PI) is dealt with as follows.

The request of the Data Subject (DS) may be for one of following: ‘Correct or delete’ PI if it

is: ‘inaccurate, irrelevant, excessive, out of date, incomplete, misleading or obtained unlawfully’;

‘Destroy or delete’ PI if it may no longer be retained in terms of POPI i.e. the purpose for which it has been collected and/

or processed has been achieved (see also ‘destroy or delete’ obligation in terms of section 14.4). The request by the DS must

be dealt with by the RP as follows: Correct, destroy or delete

the PI, as the case may be; Provide the DS with ‘credible

evidence in support of the information’ i.e. that it’s been done (read with section 22);

If the parties (DS and RP) cannot agree, a note

must be attached to the PI indicating that a correction was requested but not agreed to;

If changes to the PI ‘have an impact on decisions that have been or will be taken’ then each person to whom the PI has been disclosed must be advised;

It must advise the DS of any of the above steps taken.The requests by DS must

comply with sections 18 & 52 (Form of request: information it must contain) of PAIA.

PillowTalkA brief look at this week's hotel news

Hilton Worldwide opens new Zanzibar hotel HILTON Worldwide has announced the opening of DoubleTree by Hilton Zanzibar – Stone Town. The property has 58 rooms featuring 102cm TVs, free WiFi and ergonomic desks and can cater for conferences and social events for up to 200 guests. The hotel’s Taarab restaurant and lounge, a rooftop restaurant with views of the sea and old city, offers contemporary Western food as well as traditional Zanzibar dishes. Stone Town is the oldest section of Zanzibar and has ancient stone houses and palaces from the Omani days.

Three Cities Docklands undergoes refurb THREE Cities Docklands Hotel in Durban is undergoing refurbishment until the end of August. The hotel was recently taken over by the Misty Blue Group, which hopes to lead the way in developing a new and improved Durban Point Waterfront. New additions to the hotel include the Aqua Spa as well as a new state-of-the-art gym. Rooms have been updated and freshened up to create a more inviting atmosphere. The hotel has warned that during this time some inconvenience is to be expected but says all work has been scheduled for office hours and all efforts will be made to keep inconvenience to a minimum.

NEWS

18 n Wednesday July 30 2014 QUICK READ FOR DECISION-MAKERS

TNW7149

Visit: www.travelinfo.co.za

Learn More, Sell More!Look at our latest workshops

a trip to Kenya valued at R25 000!

Complete the online workshop to go into the prize draw.

4 spot prizes up for grabs

Fully inclusive car rental in over 50 countries!Find out more in our online workshop & you could...

1 of 3 gift cards valued at R1 500!

AirHeadsEY launches daily flights to Perth ETIHAD Airways has launched daily, non-stop services between Abu Dhabi and Perth using an A330-200, with 22 seats in Pearl Business Class and 240 in Coral Economy Class. Flight EY486 departs Abu Dhabi at 22h10, arriving in Perth at 13h10 next day. EY487 departs Perth at 15h55, arriving in Abu Dhabi at 23h25. Perth is Etihad’s fourth destination in Australia.

KQ to launch flights to Tel AvivKENYA Airways plans to introduce direct flights to Tel Aviv from Nairobi, following talks between the government and Israeli business and government delegations. Kenya Airways ceo and group md, Dr Titus Naikuni, said: “The introduction of flights to Israel is anchored on the renewed economic interest in Africa and will also open up the continent for tourists and trade, particularly in agriculture and technology.” The date when the flights will be introduced has not yet been disclosed.

Restricted operation to Lubumbashi for SAXSA EXPRESS will experience restricted operations at Lubumbashi International Airport until October 1 due to runway upgrading and maintenance. The shortened runway has resulted in a technical stop for refuelling at Ndola on the return Johannesburg flight. Flights operate on Wednesdays and Thursdays, with an additional Tuesday service commencing on September 2. The revised schedule is as follows: SA1797 departs JNB at 09h20 and arrives at FBM 12h25. SA1798 departs FBM at 12h55 and arrives in NLA at 13h35. It departs NLA at 14h05 and arrives in JNB at 16h50.

A snapshot of the week's airline newsFast forward to fast travelDebbie baDham

AIRLINE passengers are increasingly demanding faster, more efficient

airport services, and there are a number of developments in the pipeline for SA airports.

According to Iata’s Global Passenger Survey, 75% of travellers want more self-service offerings. Iata aims to have 27% of global passenger traffic accessing fast travel technology this year.

Unathi Batyashe-Fillis, manager of communication and brand management at OR Tambo International Airport, says: “OR Tambo International has been involved in discussions concerning a trial on self-bag-drop services, while Cape Town International is set to conduct a trial on self-boarding.”

The self-bag-drop service lets passengers print their own bag tags (either at home, having checked in online, or at a designated kiosk), place their baggage at the bag-drop unit and have it transported

via the conveyer belt to its next destination. Once self-bag-drop is rolled out at Acsa’s airports, the company will investigate whether a single-step check-in and bag-drop process would be feasible.

Self-boarding enables passengers to avoid long queues by allowing them to board the aircraft through an automated set of boarding gates where they are able to swipe their boarding passes and identification documents themselves. The self-boarding programme is still in its developmental phase and further details around how the new technology will be implemented are yet to be revealed by Acsa.

The trial at OR Tambo is expected to launch in October. Unathi says if it proves successful, the service will be implemented across Acsa’s airports. Cape Town’s self-boarding trial is scheduled to take place during the first half of 2015, and will be implemented between

2015 and 2016. Local airlines are also

preparing to get on board with these initiatives. Spokesperson for SAA, Tlali Tlali, says: “We are already participating in the discussions concerning self-bag drop. We are also looking into self-boarding, which is expected to be well received as it would allow us to maximise technology, something in line with our strategy of promoting efficiencies and improving productivity.”

Marketing manager of kulula.com, Shaun Pozyn, agrees: “While there are still some challenges, we remain optimistic that we will be in a position to implement some of these products in the future.”

Shaun adds that kulula has already experienced considerable success with its self-service check-in, adding that over half of the airline’s clients now make use of some form of self-service check-in.

JOBSCOMMUNITYNEWSBirths, deaths, marriages, promotions – we want to know! Please fax or e-mail TNW’s Debbie Badham, at debbieb@nowmedia.co.za or (011) 327 4094.

QUICK READ FOR bUSIESt pEOplE Wednesday July 30 2014 n 19

Appointment

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E mail: jeancv@pcs-sa.co.za | nonocv@pcs-sa.co.za | candicecv@pcs-sa.co.za Web: www.pcs-sa.co.za

INBOUND FIT CONSULTANTS - JHB NorthChinese/Portuguese/French speaking. Tour Operator exp.Salary: R10 000 - R15 000 p/m. Jean

INCENTIVES CONSULTANT - JHB North or Cape TownOutbound/Inbound Incentives exp.Own transport. Valid passport.Ability to travel.Salary: R20 000 p/m neg. Jean

INTERMEDIATE – SENIOR FIT CONSULTANT - Hout Bay Inbound Tour Operator. Tourplan.Salary: R15 000 p/m neg. Candice

INTERMEDIATE TRAVEL CONSULTANT - PretoriaCorporate Travel. Galileo.Salary: R13 000 p/m neg. Candice

INTERMEDIATE / SENIOR CORPORATE CONSULTANT - JHB NorthGalileo/Amadeus. 5+ yrs. corporate travel exp.International bookings.Salary: R10 000 - R20 000 depending on exp. Jean

INTERMEDIATE / SENIOR MARKET SPECIALIST - Cape Town NorthGerman/ English / French/ Portuguese speaking. Tourplan.Salary: R13 000 p/m neg. Candice

Harvey World Travel Manor has appointed Shirley Chetty director responsible for marketing. Shirley has more than 25 years of experience in the media industry. In her new role, she will explore new business opportunities and manage the company’s PR communications.

New store for Pentravel Pentravel recently opened its newest branch at The Glen Shopping Centre in Bassonia. A cocktail party was held on June 18 to celebrate the event with staff, suppliers and guests all there to celebrate. Toasting the new store are Pentravel management along with The Glen Shopping Centre’s new team (back from left) Bianca Giovampaolo, Sean Hough, Joanna Overbeek, Cleo Geldenhuys and Monique Del Valle and (front from left) Tricia Nunn and Brigitta Pahl.

Pick of the week

These adverts were selected from the vacancy section of www.travelinfo.co.za For more details contact jobs@travelinfo.co.za

brought to you by

TNW

7157

Operations Manager (BEE) - PretoriaQuantex Recruitment GroupRNeg. Super opportunity to manage the team, liaise with client directly and take control of all the operations in the company. Email: bridget@quantex.co.za

Bookkeeper - JHB NorthProfessional Career ServicesQuicktrav essential. Min. 8 years’ experience. Books up to trial balance, BSP experience. Strong accounting skills. R18-R25000 incl. medical aid & provident fund. Email: jeancv@pcs-sa.co.za

FIT Team Leader – Cape TownLee Botti & AssociatesExpanding tour operator requires fundi to manage fast growing team! Amadeus or Galileo essential! Sal R 18 000 + benefits. Email: malikam@nowjobs.co.za

PR Manager – Northern Suburbs Equity Connections ccResponsible for all aspects of PR: press releases, media updates, presentations etc. In-bound experience plus sound USA working knowledge essential. Email: equitycon@mweb.co.za

Key Account Manager – RandburgFCM Travel solutionsWe are looking for KAM to look after our top clients. EE candidates only. Email: megan.vorster@flightcentre.co.za

Branch Manager – PretoriaInfusion ConsultingAssist and monitor staff, ensure company policies and procedures are followed, run profitable branch. MS Office, performance management, papertrail. 2 years’ supervisor/manager experience. Salary Neg. Email: belinda@infusion.co.za

Senior Leisure Consultant – Cape TownClub TravelDynamic ambitious entrepreneurial individual required to join the leisure team in selling and promoting travel packages for Africa’s leading travel agency. Email: careers@clubtravel.co.za

Travel Advisor – NationallyPentravelLooking for outstanding people who are highly motivated and driven with a focus on deliveringexceptional customer service. Benefit from great financial rewards. Email: recruitment@pentravel.co.za

Secretary - Cape TownQuantex Recruitment GroupR18000. Join dynamic VIP tours company and assist Director with various administrative tasks, typing, overseeing company diaries. Email: lee@quantex.co.za

Senior Travel Consultant (AA) - CPT NorthProfessional Career ServicesProficient in Galileo. Min 7+ yrs exp. Fares knowledge. Quicktrav an advantage. Copes well under pressure. Salary: R 18 000 neg. Email: candicecv@pcs-sa.co.za

Guest Facilitator - JohannesburgLee Botti & AssociatesNorth. Passion for people! Meet and greet guests at Airport. European language advantageous! Able to work shifts. Salary R10 000 negotiable. Email: corneliavz@nowjobs.co.za

Groups Consultant – Sandton Equity Connections ccPlan, design, present highly creative itineraries for groups into South/Southern/East Africa. Minimum four years’ experience in in-bound groups a must. Email: equitycon@mweb.co.za

Business Development Managers – RandburgCorporate TravellerWe are looking for Business Development Managers to grow our new business in Johannesburg. Corporate sales experience essential. Email: megan.vorster@flightcentre.co.za

Operations Manager – PretoriaInfusion ConsultingOversee all operations. Smooth running of branches, recruitment, supplier contracts and negotiations.15 yrs exp, MS Office, papertrail. Galileo and quicktrav. Salary Neg.Email: belinda@infusion.co.za

Sales Executive – Cape TownClub TravelStrong sales executive required who is passionate about selling and willing to join growing online travel company. Email: careers@clubtravel.co.za

Senior Lodge Consultant - Kyalami - JohannesburgWendy’s Travel PersonnelComputer literate person, with knowledge of lodges, required immediately by small successful team!!Email: wtppositions@icon.co.za

Top jobs in Durban this week:

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MARKETING MNGR Enticing opp to promote & market top retail agency and exceed sales targets. Develop specialist products to meet the inbound & outbound demands. Sal to R20 000.

SENIOR SALES CONS Travel qual, coupled with 3yrs sales exp req. Manage the process from quotation to invoicing and producing travel documents. Amadeus/Galileo. Sal to R15 000.

INBOUND CONS North. Passionate about Southern Africa, well-travelled with exp in the wholesale trade? Combination of foreign languages a bonus for this tour operator! Sal neg

Jill / Ashnee Tel: (031) 265 8474 durban@nowjobs.co.za

Peace for township tourism THE International Institute for Peace through Tourism (IIPT) together with Skål, the international association for travel and tourism professionals, hosted a Peace Park Ceremony where they planted three olive trees at the local Jukskei Park grounds in Alexandra.

The initiative is to raise awareness of tourism opportunities in Alexandra and to build a culture of peace in 300 towns, villages and parks worldwide.

IIPT and Skål planted the olive trees as a symbol of peace and to promote values of tolerance, non violence, gender equality, human rights and youth empowerment, as well as encouraging tourism in a community that is rich in South African history and culture.

Tours in Alexandra include a visit to the local Jazz on 7th Street jazz café, a visit to the house where Mandela stayed for a short time, the old Kings Cinema and the Msomi gang headquarters, a 1950s township gang.

Photo: Back, from left: Musa Selepe (Jamming Jazz Media Holdings); Jerome Olge (Johannesburg City Parks & Zoo manager of region E); Linda Twala (Alexandra community leader); Lavonne Wittmann (Skål International); Thamba Khosa (Kasi Poetics arts & culture NPO) and in front, Bernadette Nickol (IIPT).

20 n Wednesday July 30 2014 QUICK READ FOR DECISION-MAKERS

TNW NEWS

brought to you by eTNW and TRAVELINFO

eTravel is the ITC market leader in South Africa and assists senior Travel Consultants and Travel business owners to realise their dreams. If you have ever dreamt of owning your own travel business or would like to cut costs by doing away with your IATA license and improve your current business efficiencies then you should call eTravel. We run the back office for over 200 Independent Travel Companies and specialise in making your travel business a success by offering the best commissions, overrides & a comprehensive support structure. If you have a client base, 5 years travel consultant experience or already own your own business but want to make more, then contact us! You’ll be amazed at how easy it is!

Contact Tammy on 0861eTrave1 or info@etravel.co.za

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brought to you by eTNW and TRAVELINFO

eTravel is the ITC market leader in South Africa and assists senior Travel Consultants and Travel business owners to realise their dreams. If you have ever dreamt of owning your own travel business or would like to cut costs by doing away with your IATA license and improve your current business efficiencies then you should call eTravel. We run the back office for over 200 Independent Travel Companies and specialise in making your travel business a success by offering the best commissions, overrides & a comprehensive support structure. If you have a client base, 5 years travel consultant experience or already own your own business but want to make more, then contact us! You’ll be amazed at how easy it is!

Contact Tammy on 0861eTrave1 or info@etravel.co.za

TNW7136

Compensation funds get thumbs-down from agentsYou could end up paying for your competitors’ mistakes. Would you be prepared to pay towards a fund that protects consumers against agent default?

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eTravel launches low-cost model

Garth adds that the product could also attract corporate ITCs who don’t think they need the full support of the host company or who have lost big clients and are looking at ways to downsize.

“Often ITCs don’t have a proper understanding of what it takes to run a business so they believe they can do things much more cheaply on their own. This is an option for them. There are also lots of people out there running a travel company but they don’t have an Iata licence; now they can get tickets from us,” he says.

Garth hopes JtT will drive more agents to eTravel and, once their business has grown, inspire them to become a full ITC.

To sign up, a consultant needs to have at least five years’ experience as a travel consultant in a travel agency with at least two years as a senior and two years of ticketing. There is no cash deposit, however a 12-month contract is signed. JtT consultants are then charged R50 per international transaction and R57 per domestic transaction. eTravel retains all commissions through BSP, apart from

reimbursing consultants a portion of commissions Emirates offers agents. JtT ITCs will also receive a percentage of air overrides.

Lauren Jardien, md of Uwin Iwin, the first JtT ITC to sign up, says: “We decided to use Just the Ticket because we have no financial obligation to Iata, who require a bank guarantee, which limits our access to cash flow.” Previously Uwin Iwin issued tickets as a registered Iata agent. “Our consultants have been trained on Just the Ticket and the transition has been reasonable,” she adds.

VFS bags another exclusive contract in SADorine reinstein

VFS GLOBAL has signed another exclusivity contract, this time with

the Portuguese consulates in Johannesburg and Durban. This comes at a time when the Competition Commission is in the process of investigating VFS Global over alleged market dominance abuse, following complaints from other visa companies.

Effective July 28, residents of Johannesburg and surrounding areas now need to apply for a Portuguese visa through VFS at its premises in Sandton. Travellers from KZN must apply through VFS in Musgrave, Durban, from August 1.

Appointments must be made online at www.vfsglobal.com/portugalsouthafrica from July 28, or in person if the page is not operational.

For Cape Town travellers, the visa application process remains unchanged, as VFS

only signed an agreement with the consulates in Johannesburg and Durban.

Jaco Badenhorst, md of Visa Request, says the exclusivity contract between the Portuguese Consulate and VFS will see his company lose yet another percentage of market share. He believes the contract with VFS will see visa fees for Portugal double and service levels decrease. “Neither the contact number, website nor email address in the VFS notification for Portugal work yet. VFS knows very well that if travellers don’t get hold of them in some way and pay them, they will not be able to travel to Portugal,” he says.

According to Jaco, there are now more than 16 foreign missions in South Africa that have outsourced the visa application process. None of the contracts were awarded to South African companies. “Even though we believe regulation is important, we will continue to campaign for competition in this industry.

We strongly believe the applicant who is paying for this service should be able to choose the best service provider for the best price.”

But VFS Global says it has not created a monopoly in South Africa. Tarran A ShharmaIt, spokesperson for VFS Global, told TNW: “It is important to note that there are other companies handling visa processing work in South Africa and we are convinced that we are not in a monopolistic situation.”

Tarran says the number of outsourced service providers appointed by a particular government is based purely on its own requirements and policies, and VFS Global has no influence over this. “It is our belief – purely our own belief – that missions and governments opt for single or two or three outsourced service providers to ensure a high level of service for visa applicants and to ensure a high level of security and overall control.”

From page 1

Following the tightening of security measures by American authorities at US airports, airlines are advising customers to allow for extra time when checking in for flights to the United States. Passengers are advised to ensure their electronic devices are on and charged, or risk being denied boarding. Air France has advised passengers departing from Charles de Gaulle to keep their battery chargers in their cabin luggage as electronic equipment can be charged in boarding lounges before flights. AF is also advising passengers to check-in online via the airfrance.com website to avoid delays. Emirates and Delta have released similar statements.

To the point

No 96% yeS 4%