Reed Travel Exhibitions Launching Africa Travel Week in 2014

Global leader Reed Travel Exhibitions (RTE) set to launch ‘Africa Travel Week’ at the Cape Town International Convention Centre (CTICC) from April 28th to May 3rd 2014.

Following the successful launch of ILTMAfrica in April earlier this year, the decision to create an all-encompassing travel week will ensure Africa Travel Week is the leading global event for Africa’s travel industry.

Comprising three co-located shows in one venue encompassing Africa’s inbound and outbound markets for general leisure travel, luxury tourism, and the MICE/business travel sector under RTE’s established portfolios of WTM (World Travel Market), ILTM (International Luxury Travel Market) and IBTM (Incentives, Business Travel & Meetings).

Richard Mortimore, Managing Director, Reed Travel Exhibitions commented:
“Reed has been exploring opportunities in Africa for sometime and the success of our first launch event, ILTM Africa, has given us the platform to now introduce two more of our global industry brands to create ‘Africa Travel Week’ and make it the leading global event for the continent’s travel industry.

“Because of the sheer size of the continent and diversity of its travel offering, all three brands will help bring the world to Africa and promote Africa to the world’s leading source markets. RTE is committed to the African continent and its future as a global player in the leisure, business and luxury tourism sectors.”

WTM Africa will attract exhibitors from all categories of the leisure travel industry within sub-Sahara Africa as well as North African destinations, aligning itself with sister events, WTM, WTM Latin America, Arabian Travel Market and International French Travel Market – TopResa.

All shows will have a table-top format IBTM Africa will be in the West Ballroom, adjacent to the exhibition hall in the CTICC. Targetting the inbound and outbound meetings, events, incentives and business travel sectors of sub-Sahara Africa.

With suppliers from the MICE sector including hotels, venues, convention bureaus, DMCs, technology providers and suppliers of services. Reflecting the brand values of its sister events CIBTM (China), EIBTM (Europe), GIBTM (Middle East), AIME (Australia), AIBTM (US), IBTM India.

The East Ballroom will host ILTM Africa in its second edition after its successful launch focussing on Africa’s inbound luxury travel market. ILTM Africa is part of a global portfolio of luxury travel events that include ILTM (Cannes), ILTM Americas, ILTM Asia, ILTM Japan and ILTM Spa.

Both ILTM Africa and IBTM Africa will operate with a pre-qualified Hosted Buyer programme and a pre-scheduled appointment system. WTM Africa will combine a Hosted Buyer and appointment system with a trade visitor programme.



Africa Travel Week will be supported by Thebe Exhibitions Group, based out of Johannesburg. "We will be working with Thebe as our local management services contractor to provide logistics, operations and local sales and marketing services," added Mortimore.

Arthur Gillis, CEO of the Protea Hospitality Group, the largest hotel group on the African continent with some 130 hotels in 10 countries said:

“Africa Travel Week is the sort of event that exposes the best of the continent to a global audience that covers the entire travel spectrum from leisure to luxury, business to conferencing. Cape Town, arguably one of the most beautiful cities in the world, will be the perfect backdrop to a travel showcase of this magnitude.

The Protea Hospitality Group firmly supports collaborative efforts of this nature in which tourism players work together for the greater good of growing travel and investment in Africa by creating infrastructure and permanent jobs in a market sector that I believe will continue to show steady growth in the long term.”

Dates for the events are:

ILTM Africa: April 28th – 30th

IBTM Africa: April 28th – 30th

WTM Africa: May 2nd – 3rd

www.africatravelweek.com

IBTM Africa will be the second major African meetings industry trade show. Meetings Africa, which attracted 350 buyers this year, will be held between 24-26 February next year in Gauteng.

About Reed Travel Exhibitions

The world’s leading provider of exhibitions in the travel and tourism industry. Its wide-ranging portfolio of events around the globe covers leisure travel, luxury travel, meetings, incentives and business travel, as well as golf, ski and spa travel. 

In 2012 Reed brought together seven million active event participants from around the world, generating billions of dollars in business with over 500 events in 39 countries.Today events are held throughout the Americas, Europe, the Middle East, Asia Pacific and Africa and organized by 33 fully staffed offices. Serving 44 industry sectors with trade and consumer events and is part of the Reed Elsevier Group plc, a world-leading publisher and information provider and a FTSE 100 company. www.reedexpo.com

Women: Inspiration & Enterprise Symposium Africa

WIE Symposium Africa in association with The Wellbeing Foundation

WIE Africa will be the first women’s symposium on the African continent to bring together female leaders from the worlds of politics, business, philanthropy, media, fashion, entertainment and the arts to empower and inspire the next generation. The inaugural WIE Symposium Africa is to be held from May 5th to 7th, 2013 in Cape Town, South Africa.

WIE (Women: Inspiration & Enterprise), founded in 2010 is a global annual conference and online community designed to empower the next generation of women leaders. WIE Africa is timed to coincide with the World Economic Forum Africa and will showcase the women taking a central role in shaping the Africa of tomorrow.

Humanitarian campaigner Graca Machel; renowned talk show host Felicia Suttle; CNN’s Robin Curnow; Assoc Media founder Jane Raphaely; Wellbeing Foundation President, Toyin Saraki; Ferial Hafajee, acclaimed editor of South Africa’s City Press; Elsie Kanza, Head of Africa at the World Economic Forum; Saran Kaba Jones, the founder of FACE Africa;

Swaady Martin-Leke, the founder of Yswara; Moipone Buda-Ramtlo, Executive Director of Nelson Mandela Children’s Fund; Rachel Tladi, founder of UvukoCivils; Mojanku Gumbi, former legal advisor to Thabo Mbeki; Lukwesa Burak, news presenter for eNCA; Patricia Amira, star of the Patricia Show; musician Lindiwe Suttle; couture fashion designer Zizi Cardow; LEAP Africa founder, Ndidi Nwuneli and Marie Claire editor Aspasia Karas feature in line-up.

The day will be packed full of panels and workshops on topics such as role of technology in media, tackling social perceptions of African women, entrepreneurship and the influx of western brands to the continent. GracaMachel, humanitarian and the wife of Nelson Mandela, will close proceedings.

Following the symposium, WIE and the Wellbeing Foundation will host a VIP fundraising dinner to benefit the GracaMachel Trust whose mission is to foster and promote African women’s leadership and contributions in economic, political and social frameworks.

Dee Poku, Co-Founder and CEO of WIE said: “Africa is truly the land of opportunity and there are some incredibly impressive women seizing that opportunity to launch companies and find innovative solutions to the various issues.”

For tickets and further event details visit: www.wienetwork.org

To reserve a table at the gala dinner contact: potcakes@wienetwork.org

The Luxury Network International Africa Launch

The Luxury Network Launches in Sandton

The Luxury market in South Africa and Africa at large is undergoing a radical shift in the right direction due to the vision of two prominent and insightful businessmen - Jeremy Nel, CEO of LUXURY BRANDS, & Co-owner/ Director, Xolisa Gaca.

Together these two extraordinary mavericks have proven themselves a force to be reckoned with, having acquired the rights for Africa to manage The Luxury Network International – the world’s leading luxury B2B affinity marketing, partnerships and events group with 17 international offices (including Johannesburg and Cape Town) and over 250 luxury brand members, growing by over 20 new companies per month around the globe.

The 25 April 2013 marked the auspicious introduction of The Luxury Network to 16 carefully selected, potential members including American Express, Burberry, Ducati, Mala Mala Private Game Reserve, Quintessentially and Virgin Atlantic’s Ulusaba Private Game Reserve.The exclusive event took place at the exquisite Daytona Showroom in Sandton, where existing and potential members mingled and networked the evening away amongst McLarens, Lamborghinis, Rolls Royces and Aston Martins.

Guests were treated to the opportunity of winning half a carat diamond to the value of R 16 000 from Uwe Koetter, a Visconti pen valued at R 6000 (both won by Nombini Mehlomakulu from Ogilvy) and a 2 night stay for 2 at the KarkloofSafari Spa, valued at R 36 000 (won by ElnaDennings of Decorex).

On arrival, each guest was given a glass of Champagne containing a Cubic Zirconia, which, when presented to the Uwe Koetter team, was measured for size, with just six individuals qualifying with a potential diamond. Each stone was tested by a diamond screening device, which revealed that the true ½ carat diamond was in possession of NombiniMehlomakulu of Ogilvy.

Special thanks to the following Luxury Network members who contributed greatly to the evening:

The Daytona Group, Constantia Glen, International Wine Co, Evian, Uwe Koetter Jewellers and LIVEOUTLOUD.

Additional thanks go to;

Moemas Catering for their outstanding canapés and deserts

Peroni for their bar and beverages

Silverflute Musicians for the entertainment

Visconti for donating a pen to the value of R 6 000 and

KarkloofSafari Spa for donating a 2 night stay for 2, valued at R 36 000.

Visit za.theluxurynetworkinternational.com

New Luxury Network South Africa members already include: The Daytona Group (Aston Martin, Rolls Royce, Audi, BMW, Mini and McLaren) Pam Golding Real Estate, ExecuJet, Seabourn Private Ships, LiveOutLoud, Sunseeker Yachts, Luxury Brands, Crystal Cruises, Val de Vie Estate, Uwe Koetter Jewellers, Ottimo Cibo, International Wine Co, Evian, Visconti Pens to name a few… 

About The Luxury Network International

The Luxury Network exists to create extraordinary, powerful and successful business relationships between many of the world’s most luxurious brands – a synergy that enables our members to gain unparalleled access to valuable, pre-qualified, high net worth private clients from around the globe. We generate and develop brand awareness and exciting new sales opportunities in ways high-end companies cannot achieve on their own.

The Luxury Network is the world’s leading business to business and business to consumer luxury affinity marketing, partnerships and events group - private consortium of premium brands in each luxury capital of the world working together at senior director level for mutual business and client development.

The Luxury Network, launched in London in 2007, covers all areas of the top-end market including: Marine, Finance, Motoring, Concierge, Health & Beauty, Wealth Management, Aviation, Property, Travel and Resorts, Finance, Sports, Events, Jewelry & Watches, Entertainment, Media, Fashion and many more…

The Luxury Network’s objective is simple: to facilitate co-operation and new business development activities between top-end companies under the umbrella of ‘Affinity Marketing’.

Through The Luxury Network unique partnerships are created via brand partnering, joint collaborations, privilege and reward programmes, client incentive projects, product launches, roadshows, luxury showcases, media sharing and high profile business to business and business to consumer networking and sales events.

We offer ongoing support and a comprehensive pre planned programme of affinity marketing activities designed to maximise your relationships with other luxury brands and generate a significant ROI.

The Luxury Network are experts in luxury brand affinity and partnership marketing with over 20 years combined experience in this specific field. We are the professional team in the middle, proactively creating, facilitating and mediating unique partnerships for over 300 luxury brands and high-end service providers around the world.

In a nutshell we allow our members to access each other’s very valuable pre-qualified high net worth private clients in a number of endorsed, unique, highly effective and professional ways. 

www.theluxurynetworkinternational.com  

 

Gucci Green Carpet Challenge Handbag Collection

Gucci and the Green Carpet Challenge are pleased to introduce a new line of signature handbags designed by Creative Director Frida Giannini. By introducing the world’s first bags certified as zero deforestation from Amazon leather, the Florentine House furthers its commitment towards ecological consciousness. 

The three exclusive designs of the Gucci for the Green Carpet Challenge Handbag Collection convey Gucci’s mission to interpret the modern desire for sustainable products in a responsible way. Coinciding with the launch, Gucci will donate 50.000 euro to the National Wildlife Federation, funding work to promote deforestation-free Brazilian leather.

“I believe that today more than ever before customers want to be associated with brands that are thoughtful and responsible. Through our sustainability, humanitarian and philanthropic actions we would like Gucci to not just be synonymous with Made in Italy, but also Made with integrity,” said Giannini. “This project with the Green Carpet Challenge was conceived to show how we can be proactive on environmental issues, by raising awareness and demonstrating action on the subject of deforestation.”

Comprising the hobo, top-handle tote with detachable shoulder strap and the iconic New Jackie bag, the versatile and functional accessories all feature hand-selected and natural calfskin originating in Brazil, with craftsmanship respecting important environmental issues such as traceability and anti-deforestation. Gucci’s attention to detail includes lining in organic cotton on each style. The first steps of the production chain follow the requirements of internationally recognized standards, embracing processes that avoid the cutting-down of trees in the Amazon Forest.

Every model mirrors a unique blend of relaxed elegance and modern innovation, characterized by the daubed semi-matte and uneven grain appearance, the extreme softness and the slightly wax feel of eco-certified leather. Each piece features a special label embossed with the “Gucci for Green Carpet Challenge” script and will be accompanied by the Gucci GCC passport, which documents the origin and traceability of the handbag.

Alongside the plush surface in a warm red-wine colour, the bags boast embellishments such as exquisite hand-stitching and woven detailing for a three-dimensional effect on the exterior, paired with antique gold hardware and bamboo tassels.

This project symbolizes an important challenge and commitment for Gucci, maintaining the balance between the timeless values of style and superb quality and the growing understanding of the need to protect life-sustaining resources. www.gucci.com

Related Post
Gucci Women's Collection Autumn/Winter 2013

The First Ever International Luxury Travel Market Africa

The launch of the International Luxury Travel Market (ILTM) Africa, Cape Town, the first event of its kind on the African continent kicks off with the ILTM Africa Opening Forum – a live debate led by some of Africa’s leading industry figures who will discuss the rise of luxury travel, the issues that this has brought to the continent, and how safari tourism has moved upmarket.

With overwhelming support from luxury travel experiences across the African continent and fully booked with 70 participants, all of whom represent the most authentic and diverse range of elite travel products and services. Many of these participants will be exhibiting at a trade show for the first time and will join Hosted Buyers who also have not attended an event of this kind in Africa before – 37% of these will attend an ILTM event for the first time.

Visit Africa Travel Week in 2014

The Forum, facilitated by international African Travel Writer, Graham Boynton will take place before the show opens on Monday 8th April at the Mount Nelson Hotel, the venue for the ILTM Africa showcase. The first day of ILTM Africa 2013 culminates in a Gala Dinner hosted by the Cellars Hohenort.

The forum will be in two parts and starts with Minister Alan Winde, Ministry of Finance, Economic Development and Tourism for the Western Cape Government, who will give an insight into the infrastructure and tourism assets of his region and beyond. Followed by South African author Clem Sunter, focusing on Africa’s economic and political health.

Boynton will then facilitate a lively debate on “The Issues Facing The Luxury Travel Market” looking at perception vs reality – how the outside world sees Africa - and the impact of recent changes that have taken place in the market, plus how the luxury African product has evolved and the key issue of intra-country air connections. Taking part will be Tony Romer Lee – CEO, The Collection by Liz McGrath; Adrian Gardiner – Founder & CEO, Mantis Group and Beks Ndlovu – CEO, African Bush Camps.

ILTM’s Exhibition Director, Alison Gilmore commented: “The point of the ILTM forum concept is to kick off an event with some content and debate that gives all our participants – exhibitors and hosted buyers – real insights into trends, issues and successes of the host country as well as some thought provoking take-aways to begin their two days of business.

We are delighted to welcome Minister Alan Winde and of course such an influential line up of speakers for what is bound to be a lively and enlightening debate that will also give the audience the opportunity to ask their own questions from those that are directly involved in the industry luxury tourism”.

The inaugural ILTM Africa 2013 the first invitation only event in Africa to showcase 70 exclusively African travel experiences who will meet with 70 international Hosted Buyers, dedicated to creating and planning luxury travel inbound to Africa.

Business appointments are pre-scheduled, matching mutual requests from buyers and exhibitors alike to meet on a strict one-to-one ratio. Following the traditional ILTM format, both buyers and exhibitors must follow a strict accreditation process in order to participate.

For further information, please visit www.iltm.net/africa

 

ILTM Africa will host international VIP buyers from major markets including the USA, Europe and Brazil, each with a specialism in Africa, personally invited and verified to ensure their luxury travel credentials are of the highest standard. The event matches mutual requests from both buyers and exhibitors to meet on a one-to-one basis to build business opportunities and communities.

Muriel Minnell Falck, CEO & Executive Director of Argentina’s Sundance Tours, a specialist in Africa’s exotic destinations commented: “There are Africa luxury specialists all over the world who have long needed a dedicated forum at which to meet solely high end African product, from the established to the smaller, lesser-known brands. ILTM Africa is extremely promising and we are very much looking forward to being part of its launch in April and meet with exhibitors who would mutually benefit from forging new relationships.”

Like all other ILTM events, ILTM Africa will feature a detailed programme of social networking opportunities. In addition, the ILTM Africa Opening Forum will reflect both regional and global key luxury travel trends and issues, in a series of live interviews and debates.

Alison Gilmore, ILTM Exhibition Director said: “Our pre-event research was clearly extremely accurate - the overwhelming interest in ILTM Africa since we launched such a short time ago, shows just how much demand there is for an event that focuses exclusively on the high-end market.The global portfolio of ILTM events are about addressing the needs of both the buyers and suppliers and the response we have received will help ILTM Africa to grow in 2014.”

About ILTM

International Luxury Travel Market (ILTM) and ILTM Asia are the leading annual business to business events for the global luxury travel community, bringing together the world’s most sought after destinations, ultra-luxurious accommodation, elite transportation and unique travel experiences showcased for the most discerning luxury travel buyer via an unrivalled pre-scheduled appointment system and effective networking and information opportunities.

ILTM – which invites only the most discerning buyers from across the world – takes place in Cannes, 2 - 5 December 2013; ILTM Asia – which selects buyers from across the Asia Pacific – takes place in Shanghai, 3 - 6 June 2013 and ILTM Americas – a one-to-one summit for travel agents from North, Central and South America – takes place at Fairmont Mayakoba, Riviera Maya, Mexico, 30 September - 3 October 2013. A similar niche event ILTM Japan – inviting both Japanese and international buyers - launched 11 – 13 March 2013 in Kyoto; ILTM Africa will launch 8-9 April 2013 in Cape Town, South Africa profiling African product and inviting international buyers and ILTM Spa will take place in London from 30th September – 2nd October 2013.

Bespoke African Brands - The Rising Stars of Luxury

Bridging the gap between traditional craftsmanship and luxury, high-end African brands are out to make a global impression. From clothing and jewellery to wine and tea, refined luxury is increasingly being packaged and sold by Africans.

The market for luxury African goods was once the preserve of rich expatriates and tourists, but as incomes soar across the continent, retailers report a growing appetite among local buyers and continental consumption is rising steadily.

Consumer spending in Africa is set to increase from $860bn in 2008 to $1.4trn in 2020 according to a report by consultancy firm McKinsey. The number of households with disposable income is due to grow by 50% over the next 10 years to 128m.

The growing number of high-net-worth individuals in Africa offers a compelling opportunity for proprietors of luxury brands seeking new markets. Read more...

 

The Wealth Report found the number of high-net-worth individuals in Africa rose to 100,000 last year. While China's economic slowdown has worried some luxury brands, others have been quick to take note of Africa's growth. Home-grown brands are taking the opportunity to establish themselves not only in Africa but on the global market.

Patrick Mavros, a Zimbabwean jewellery company, opened its flagship store in London in 2004. After 33 years of business, the company's clientele ranges from taxi drivers to film stars and heads of state. "African luxury is a rarity,"says Forbes Mavros, son of the brand's founder and head of the Mauritius atelier. "There are not many brands that have touched the international pulse and remained African in their identity."

Swaady Martin-Leke, the founder of YSWARA, a luxury tea brand with its headquarters in South Africa, also believes that it is important to maintain a country or region's heritage and culture when building a global brand. "If you look at European or Japanese luxury brands, you find the essence of the country of origin is in the detail," she says.



Euromonitor International revealed spending on luxury goods in South Africa rose from $628.5m in 2007 to more than $1bn in 2012. South Africa's global wine exports grew by nearly 40% between 2006 and 2012. Over the same period Kenya became its largest African importer of wine, buying 6.1m bottles in 2012. A prime example is Waterford Estate's "The Jem" 2007 bottles start from R680 ($80).

Martin-Leke believes that typical African luxury consumers, having travelled abroad, want products that reflect their identity. "They might want a Chanel watch, but they also want a beautiful couture ankara dress. "They have the money to buy Yves Saint Laurent, but they want African designers"

Source The Africa Report

The State of Opulence in Africa

The golden continent and the ethics of luxury.

It is a struggle to reconcile the dichotomy of deep social concerns for our African continent, rife with poverty, and the light-hearted revelry and opulence associated with the luxury sector. This is particularly true as the global financial crisis has not yet loosened its grip, currency volatility remains erratic and unemployment figures remain high - these are uncertain and difficult times.

Outside of consumption patterns, in South Africa there is a tendency to downplay the employment opportunities generated by the luxury sector. The most obvious sectors to generate employment through luxury goods and services are the mining industry, through which a myriad of jewelry businesses are generated, and tourism where high-end hospitality and exclusive safaris show South Africa at its best. But aside from these two monoliths there are in fact many other areas of growth.

The multi-billion Rand boat building industry employs over 3000 permanent employees that has seen South Africa recognized for its high-end catamarans worldwide. BMW is a leader in the manufacturing of luxury cars and has recently announced further investment of R2 billion into 'BMW World Plant Rosslyn', its South African facility. They anticipate that the upgraded plant will be capable of producing up to 60 000 units per annum.

Global luxury forecasts for 2012 seem optimistic, particularly for those businesses focused on growth markets. The 2011 Global Wealth Report by Credit Suisse comments that in many respects, South Africa is the model for many other African economies. Household wealth has grown vigorously over the last decade, quadrupling in value from US$8,400 in 2000 to US$34,300 in mid 2011. Global Wealth overall is showing an upturn led by increased wealth in South Africa, China, India, Brazil, Australia, Chile and Indonesia.

That is not to say that the volume of HNW individuals is homogenous, indeed it varies radically between these rapid emerging markets - China boasts 1,017,000 US Dollar millionaires (and 5,000 with a wealth of over US$50 million) and South Africa sports a comparatively meagre 71,000 US Dollar millionaires. Fortunately we too have a few exemplary billionaires who have travelled to space, built luxury empires, not to mention the obvious financial and mining empires.

Small and medium enterprises, well recognized in academic and policy literature for their economic and social importance, are perhaps where our craft-centric culture and the luxury industry could interest a government seeking job creation. There are many exemplary domestic luxury brands generating employment as well as being ambassadors for Brand SA. Avoova, for example, creates functional art and collectible items from the best fragments of ostrich eggshell that are carefully laid down as a fine veneered finish used as a decoration for objet d'art from bowls and bars to billionaires yachts. In doing so they support 40 artisans in the Karoo. For leather goods, Cape Cobra Leathercraft, who employs ninety people from the local community.

A new generation of designers has been born that has taken our raw materials and transformed them into world-class lines that are in global demand. Hanneli Rupert, daughter of Johann Rupert, has recently launched Okapi. The energetic, talented young designer, is a firm supporter of the potential job creation through luxury on our golden continent and as such she has committed to supporting local manufacturing and where necessary purchasing machinery to do so. She uses local suppliers in the creation of her new exotic handbag range with signature horns and has sourced rare leathers and materials from across Africa.

One often overlooks the impact of high-end consumption and disregards the more obvious arenas such as the gourmet sector, championed by master-chefs like Margot Janse, Reuben Riffel and Giorgio Nava, that employs and trains staff for numerous restaurants. Beyond fine foods, consumers are presented with an ever greater number of fine wines and spirits from farms and niche distilleries, that are reaching a new price echelon, whilst creating employment in the winelands and broader drinks sector.

South African fashion is achieving international acclaim - from Gavin Rajah to Malcolm Kluk, home grown labels have not only a solid local following but are being welcomed to the world run way from Paris Couture to New York Fashion Week. The work by Precious Moloi Motsepe, wife of billionaire Patrice Motsepe, in creating Africa Fashion International has seen the emergence and strengthening of many African couturiers and labels.

South Africa boasts a wealth of diamonds and gold but the bulk of manufacturing and finishing happens internationally. Johannesburg based African Romance has invested in local diamond finishing and the training of diamond polishers to retain value in South Africa. With the mining industry constituting one third of GDP, an estimated 50% of the world's gold reserves in SA and a huge 10 million carats annually of diamonds mined annually (with 90% of the diamonds being exported), it stands to reason that we should look at methods to retain value locally.

The Southern Africa Luxury Association, through the SALA Artisan Accelerator, has recently worked with Keith White to develop an initiative to build up the expertise of black jewelry designers, taking them through an apprenticeship to become master jewelers. De Beers Shining Lights Awards is another noteworthy program supporting the industry that has recognized his talents and those of other jewelers using our natural resources for world-class finished products.

Luxury eco-tourism in South Africa is globally revered and companies like the Mantis Collection and &Beyond are spearheading a sustainable, considerate view of engaging with nature at the top level.

Businesses which take a more thoughtful view of luxury and succeed in carving out a unique niche for themselves, with consideration for people, planet and profit, will be firmly entrenched on the road to success by adhering to a new definition of local luxury that exemplifies 'Proudly South African'.

Issued by the Southern African Luxury Association.

Full Article

Emirates Premium Travel with Boeing 777-300ER

 

Emirates welcomes the arrival of its inaugural Boeing 777-300ER

The new 354-seat aircraft introduces Emirates’ renowned First Class cabin on the Durban route and boosts passenger capacity by close to 30 percent, confirming Emirates’ continuing growth in South Africa.

The Boeing 777 offers the highest standards of passenger comfort, with eight luxurious private suites in First Class, 42 lie-flat beds in Business Class and 304 generously-sized Economy Class seats. All classes of the aircraft are equipped with Emirates award-winning ice entertainment system with more than 1,200 channels of on-demand entertainment to choose from. This includes 200 movies from around the world, 100 TV channels, more than 500 audio channels, 100 video games and news, as well as sports and business headlines.

Customers can also look forward to gourmet food in all cabins and seamless transfers to the Emirates’ extensive global network through the airline’s state-of-the-art Terminal 3 hub in Dubai.

Emirates Broadens Its African Network with Lusaka and Harare 

Extending its reach into Africa with the launch of a new linked service to Lusaka and Harare. Now flying to 22 points within Africa, Emirates airlines will connect Zambia and Zimbabwe to key markets across Europe, the Far East, Australasia and the Indian Subcontinent.

To support the linked service, Emirates will promote Zambia and Zimbabwe’s tourism attractions, including Victoria Falls, the Zambezi River, game reserves and safaris, in advertising campaigns executed across the airline’s global network.

Emirates Holidays also feature eight pages on Zimbabwe and Zambia in its 2012 World of Choice brochure.

“Zambia and Zimbabwe are both important emerging business and industrial centres, with economies that are projected to grow by over five per cent annually during the coming years,” said Nabil Sultan, Divisional Senior Vice President Revenue Optimisation & Distribution. “Emirates’ new service will play a significant role in supporting this growth by connecting Lusaka and Harare to our worldwide network, opening new conduits for trade, investment and tourism.”

Upon arrival at Kenneth Kaunda International Airport in Lusaka, Emirates’ inaugural Flight 713 was greeted by a traditional water cannon salute. "Emirates’ decision to operate to Lusaka represents new economic doors being opened to our country. The fact that this airline, which is successful on all continents, is entering markets like ours as part of its expansion plans is clear evidence of excellent future prospects for Zambia and Zambians,” said the Honourable Given Lubinda, the Zambian Minister of Foreign Affairs.

Emirates services to Lusaka will be a huge boost to its tourism industry, helping to support the Zambia Tourism Board’s target for increasing visitor arrivals by 22.5 percent to one million visitors in 2012. The onward connection to Harare, operated by Zimbabwean Captain Ca Busiso Ndlovu, also received a warm welcome at Harare International Airport.

"The arrival of Emirates to Zimbabwe is a very significant development for the market. We welcome the entrance of a truly global airline; with an extensive network, large fleet and great reputation for quality service which will greatly improve choice and connectivity for Zimbabwean travelers," said the Honourable Nicholas Goche, Zimbabwean Minister of Transport, Communications and Infrastructural Development. "Emirates will bring greater capacity and fare competitiveness, which will certainly lead to traffic growth to and from Zimbabwe."

Emirates’ services to Harare will support the Tourism Ministry’s projections that the sector will contribute over US$5 billion to the country’s economy by 2015. Following the launch of Lusaka and Harare, Emirates started services to Dallas, Texas on 2nd February and Seattle on 1st March, Ho Chi Minh City on 4th June and Barcelona on 3rd July. Emirates' 173-strong fleet is one of the youngest in the skies. Emirates SkyCargo’s fleet includes eight freighters (two Boeing 747-400Fs, two 747-400ERF and four 777Fs) that now serves 123 destinations in 73 countries on six continents.

Emirates Holidays A World of Choice

 
I had the privilige of attending Emirates Holidays launch where it unveiled its new 600-page ‘A World of Choice 2012-2013’ brochure featuring over a 100 destinations, eight of them brand new, spanning six continents. The tour operating arm of Emirates airline already enjoys a presence in South Africa after opening its first Travel Hub outside the UAE at the Melrose Arch Precinct in Johannesburg last year.

Cape Town

The Cape Town launch forms part of the company’s series of mini-launches in South Africa that started in Durban ends in Johannesburg this June to travel agents and media. “South Africa is a market with great potential for Emirates Holidays,” said Frederic Bardin, Senior Vice President, Emirates Holidays.

Casablanca

“With 2012 being a landmark year for Emirates Holidays, following the launch of the new destinations, travel offers and the reintroduction of some old favourites, we are extremely excited to introduce our best and biggest brochure to date to South Africa’s three major cities.”

Argentina, Denmark, Ireland, Zambia and Zimbabwe all make their first appearance in the brochure, which has grown by 20 per cent – from 500 to 600 pages – since the 2011-2012 edition. Holidays to Dallas and Seattle in the USA, along with Vancouver in Canada, have also been introduced this year to coincide with the launch of new routes to these cities by Emirates airline.

In addition to the exciting new destinations, Russia, Morocco, Malta and South Korea have all been reintroduced into the brochure in response to customer demand. Offerings in popular countries such as China, Thailand, India, South Africa and Germany have also been expanded to provide more travel options with a wider choice of cruises, safaris, palace hotels and dedicated wellness retreats. The once-popular Fly & Drive packages have also been re-launched this year in partnership with various car rental companies to satisfy customer desire for a more diverse range of holidays around the globe.

“At Emirates Holidays we offer a tailor-made holiday experience to each customer so the changes we have made this year reflect current travel trends and are based on what our customers have told us they want.  The expansion of our offering has been driven by the increased demand for a wider choice of destinations around the world. Places that were once considered out of reach are now easily accessible with the launch of new routes by Emirates airline and with the help of our new brochure, the travel opportunities are endless.”

Khartoum

To reach out to its increasingly diverse customer base and to further reinforce its position as the leading holiday expert in the Middle East, Emirates Holidays has also expanded its 3 and 4-star hotel offerings, in addition to a wider choice of 5-star accommodation. 

The brochure features many of these hotels, with many more available when booking directly with Emirates Holidays or via travel agents. As always, excellent service levels, destination knowledge and attention to detail play a core part in providing the impeccable customer service that Emirates Holidays has become known for.

A wide network of well-trained Emirates Holidays staff  will help bring ‘A World of Choice 2012-2013’ to life for every customer through well-informed recommendations on flights, accommodation and sightseeing – all based on travel experience and extensive research. The Brocuhre is now available online and at Emirates Holidays travel hubs, including the Melrose Arch Precinct and across its international network of travel agents. For more information visit Emirates Holidays.

 

Its summer travel deals feature some of the most exciting destinations in the Middle East, Europe, Asia and Maldives.

From as little as ZAR8 100 during the months of June to August. “Emirates Holidays is delighted to bring our Summer Campaign to South Africa, one of our key markets which we believe holds great potential,” said Frederic Bardin, Senior Vice President, Emirates Holidays.  “Given the changing needs of travellers, we have carefully put together these holidays to ensure that our customers receive the best possible deal to suit their requirements and budget.”

The holiday options feature some of the most popular and exotic destinations on the Emirates network. Specialising in tailor-made holiday arrangements with a strong presence in the Gulf and Middle East, as well as in a growing number of Southern European, Asian and African countries.

Quintessentially Your Global Concierge

Whether it be last minute flights to Cape Town, Johannesburg or abroad or tables at the best restaurant’s around the world Quintessentially SA will ensure members get an exceptionally efficient service wherever they are located.

A world leader in global concierge services founded in the United Kingdom in 2000 operated as a “Private Members’ Club” available to members 24 hours a day 365 days a year. With over 65 worldwide offices and upwards of 35 languages spoken, this multinational brand knows how to provide a “global yet local service”. And because it is operated on a member’s only basis, there is a cap placed on the total number of clients in order to insure that all their clients receive top notch quality services, tailored specifically to them.

The idea is that no matter where you may be in the world, there is always someone to take care of the details and make your life as easy and enjoyable as possible. With varying levels of service, members can expect to have a last minute table at a fully booked restaurant, tickets to the final of a world class sporting event, a VIP party planned to their exact specifications and invitations to attend high level networking events, just to name a few.

Pedro Camacho, the new owner and CEO of Quintessentially South Africa, has a very particular vision for the brand. His aim is to offer a well groomed, personalised, service to their members where requests are met above their expectations. "I want to make it better than the best and beyond what anyone expects”, enthuses Camacho.

In addition to the concierge service offerings, Quintessentially has 32 luxury sister businesses which covers all facets of the luxury lifestyle market, including Travel, Real Estate, Wine, Art, Luxury Retail, Events, Public Relations, Publishing and more. The various levels of membership range from General Membership, starting at R13, 000 per annum, to Dedicated and Dual Memberships starting at R32, 000 and R62, 335 per annum respectively, and finally Elite Memberships, which are by invitation only.

General Memberships allow members access to the AskQ concierge service, while the Dedicated and Dual Memberships, provide personal account managers, two for the dual membership. For those who are invited into the exclusive ranks of the Elite Membership, they can expect to have account managers provided for all of Quintessentially’s territories, twenty-four seven.

Quintessentially seamlessly deals with the more typical day to day concierge requests like chauffeured airport transfers, flower and champagne delivery and tables at fully booked restaurants, but also prides itself on being able to accommodate even the most taxing and unusual of tasks like arranging an overnight shipment of 200 Ladurée Macarons and 202 red roses from London to Slovenia.

Collecting medical documents from Rome and returning them to a client in London in the same day, recovering a digital camera left in a Taxi in Shanghai, researching the rules and regulations for owning a gorilla as a pet in Singapore and personally selecting a dress and delivering it to a Saudi Princess in Dubai before a photo shoot and flight later that day.

Members find the service truly indispensable. Many have been quoted saying that it was invaluable in a time of emergency or distress such as one member's ' son breaking his arm in Ibiza when Quintessentially found the best doctor and hospital and even helped them avoid the queue.

Even the PA to Coldplay uses the service to make room at fully booked restaurants or get the band to wherever they need to go. There is no task too great or too small for Quintessentially, they are always there to make the life of their members easier and provide only the best quality services by leaving the details to those at Quintessentially who do it best.

SUMMER LOVING 

The Quintessentially London Summer membership card

With the Olympics  upon us, London is the place to be this summer. The city will be abuzz with parties and pop-ups, celebrations and fun aplenty, and Quintessentially are on hand to ensure you don’t miss out. The ultimate lifestyle management service is offering a limited number of exclusive three-month memberships for those visiting London this summer. The Quintessentially London Summer Membership allows visitors to join Quintessentially, at the Elite membership level, for a period of three months and for them to enjoy a 24 hour personal concierge service which includes unrivalled insider knowledge of the city and proactive recommendations from Q’s little black book of contacts.

QMS Medicosmetics - Regenerating Inner Beauty

The 3 Core Products of the QMS System

Formulated by Dr. med. Erich Schulte, an aesthetic surgeon, lecturer and international authority on skin aging and regeneration, based on research led, collagen enhancing technology to create a bespoke regenerative system of skincare.

Skin reflects the accumulated damage of the environmental conditions and neglect it has been exposed to. The damage, like damage that occurs in skin that has been burnt or wounded, persists in the form of scarring seen as marks on the skin and changes in texture. Aging appearance of the skin is also due to a lack of collagen. With chronological aging skin slows production of collagen. Thus the effective treatment for wounded, exposed and aging skin is absorption of collagen.

In the 1970s Dr med. Erich Schulte worked at the Maxillo Facial Department for reconstructive plastic surgery at the Göttingen University Clinic in Germany. His patients were mainly severe accident and burn wound victims. At the time surgery could lead to the reconstruction of the shape of the face but skin remained scarred and damaged. He researched wound healing and found collagen to be highly significant. He knew that if he could find a way to reintroduce collagen into the skin, scar formation would be reduced and skin could be regenerated.

Later, working in the field of aesthetic and cosmetic surgery. He continued to scientifically investigate skin regeneration. This led him to develop a unique method to condition natural soluble collagens so that they can penetrate into the epidermis and be applied topically to skin thereby allowing skin to regenerate. Due to visible improvements in skin texture as well as skin healing when used in post-operative treatment he used the products for pre-operative treatment as well and found exceptional results could be achieved.

In 1987 he developed QMS Medicosmetics as a complete skincare and rejuvenation system of products available for use by other surgeons, in beauty salons, spas and at home. QMS Medicosmetics products can be used individually, however by using a combination of products better results will be achieved as they work together to transform skin. The original three products of Exfoliant Fluid, Day Collagen and Night Collagen are still the foundation of the collection.

His research is focused on delivery techniques to enhance the metabolism of the ingredients in addition to searching for unique ingredients and high-tech delivery systems. The original formulation of Night Collagen was developed in a surgical context and was so effective at improving skin tone and appearance that it led to the development of the !QMS Medicosmetics range for use at home. The Classic Set of Exfoliant Fluid, Day Collagen and Night Collagen is the foundation of daily treatment for facial skin and targeted treatment. Consumers can add specific products to customise their skincare to treat areas of concern and suit their needs.

Complementing the effective treatment of facial skin is the !QMS Medicosmetics body care range which delivers the same high level of performance to body treatment, transforming the appearance of skin as well as moisturising. Body Shape firms contours and Refirming Neck & More nourishes the delicate skin of the décolletage. Further enhancement of skin condition is provided by Intravital the nutritional supplement designed by !QMS Medicosmetics to recondition, regenerate and protect skin by enhancing the collagen production cycle and providing an advanced combination of anti-oxidants. 

With Dr. Schulte’s passion for the skin and his revolutionary research, the QMS Medicosmetics collection continues to be at the forefront of skincare. For products, therapists and stockists in Southern Africa visit Futurethis. International Skincare Spa's and Global Locations. To get some insight into the treatment step by step here's a review by Alexandra van Tonder at CTG.

Gandhi in Africa - Satyagraha House

The Satyagraha House - Gandhi's house, Johannesburg

Now transformed into a museum and guesthouse South Africa’s liberation heritage has been further enriched with the official opening of Mahatma Gandhi’s historical Johannesburg home, for those eager to immerse themselves in the Gandhi life experience.

His concept of passive resistance became known at Satyagraha (Sanskrit for ‘truth force’) – the name chosen for the new tourism destination for those who have not forgotten Gandhi’s South African experience and wish to learn more. The guesthouse component of Satyagraha House comprises nine rooms and a restaurant offering strictly vegetarian fare in accordance with Gandhi’s own dietary preference. 

Jean François Rial noted: “Satyagraha House marks an important passage in a liberation struggle that was later taken up in South Africa by leaders such as Nelson Mandela. “We believe the site will attract both South African and international visitors and will resonate particularly with those with an abiding interest in the struggle to combat racism and ultimately apartheid.' “The house tells its own compelling story, but can also be integrated into a wider visitor experience by combining a visit here with visits to Soweto, Constitution Hill and Johannesburg’s Old Fort Prison, a jail where Gandhi and Nelson Mandela were both held.”

Interior of The Satyagraha House

The Orchards house was built in 1907. The property is revered as the place where the future Mahatma (‘Great Soul’) conceptualised and evolved his philosophy of passive resistance – the pacifist method of protest that he subsequently employed in India when leading the country to independence.

Fabrice Dabouineau, Director Voyageurs du Monde and Mr. Cllr Prema Naidoo - Chief Whip of the JHB City Council

The house is the only place where Gandhi lived in South Africa that has been preserved. Exhibits celebrate Gandhi’s life while reflecting the minimalism and simplicity that characterised his life. The opening of Satyagraha House will also showcase cultural diversity through Indian music performed on traditional instruments by local artists and vegetarian cooking. The guesthouse experience includes morning meditation. Take a trip through this South African heritage site and experience the sparse universe of Gandhi, the rich history of South Africa, authentic architecture and simple, raw interior. 
 

In the middle - Mr. Sonam Tenzing - The Dalai Lama's Representative in SA

The faithfully restored Satyagraha House in Orchards was opened on November 8 by Jean François Rial, CEO of French travel company Voyageurs du Monde and Satyagraha House (Pty) Ltd, at a ceremony attended by senior Indian and French diplomats and representatives of the Department of Tourism, Gauteng Tourism and the international media.

Jean Francoise Rial, CEO Voyageurs du Monde

Voyageurs du Monde, the first French company to invest in ‘liberation tourism’ within South Africa, bought the property two years ago. Since then, with assistance from local historians, the company has re-created an authentic Edwardian home and developed on on-site museum complete with Gandhi memorabilia and period pieces from India that reflect the development of Mahatma Gandhi’s anti-colonial and anti-racism philosophy and his commitment to non-violence.

The team who made The Satyagraha House possible.

Voyageurs du Monde specialises in travel-related services with strong focus on personalised travel itineraries, guided tours and flight and hotel reservation services. It organises international conferences, exhibitions and craft fairs and operates across Africa, South America, Asia, the USA and Europe. Voyageurs du Monde offers accommodation services in Morocco, Brazil, Egypt and now South Africa.