A South African's first impressions of Thailand

It is suggested that you visit Thailand at least five times in your lifetime. As a backpacker, for your honeymoon, with the kids, to celebrate a milestone anniversary and then finally for the ultimate multi-generational holiday.

While slightly excessive, it certainly speaks of a life well-travelled – especially if you're prone to falling madly in love with the destinations you visit.

And after my first visit as part of a media group with Lesley Simpson communications for Destination Asia exploring Southern Thailand, it's easy to see why you would want to visit over and over again.

I must admit, I somehow expected the bustling chaos of Phuket central. Instead I was taken behind an enchanting tropical jungle veil to experience parts of Khao Lak and Khao Sok that act as windows into what the popular Phuket was like some 30-years ago.

Thainess and Thai culture, somewhat frozen in time.

These are my first impressions and some essential info for South Africans looking to visit there soon

1. You'll feel like a dumpling in a bamboo steamer

The humidity and heat hits, even more than the six-hour time difference, from the moment you land at Phuket International Airport. We visited in the rainy season which is between June and October. While this can mean daily showers of a couple of hours or more, it was rather unpredictable as the better part of our week-long stay was peppered with clear skies, swimming in the gorgeous Khao Sok rain forest lakes and snorkeling in the Andaman Sea.

Temperatures average about 28°C and sometimes the rain is an actual blessing against the heat. Rain and humidity means you just need to go with the fuzzy holiday hair look folks.  But if you're champing for some hot chill, then Thailand between March and May is your best bet. November to February sees the coolest temperatures of all.

2. It's all lemon grass, jasmine and lots of jungle

From the moment you leave the airport the air is filled with flowery scents. While Thailand is well-known for that sense of Asian city congestion, exploring the Southern parts of Khao Sok National Park with a stay at Elephant Hills allowed a close-up look at some of the oldest evergreen rain forests in the world.

And wherever we went, local flowers delightfully set the scene.

3. Thailand connectivity is superb

Visiting Thailand is relatively easy as South Africans get a 30-day visa on arrival. It's important to keep your stamped immigration form for the duration of your stay. Upon arrival you can also have the option to sign-up for a free local sim card – you just need to present your passport.

While the details of TrueMove connectivity implies that you will have unlimited access for a week if you purchase 200Bhat (about R66 @ 3Bhat/R) in data, things are somehow lost in translation.

Between the free wi-fi at the hotels we were staying at such as Sarojin, Elephant Hills and Zeavola, the 200Bhat data lasted most of the week but it was not unlimited. Still very convenient though and I only lost signal once while out on the Cheow Lan Lake.

4. Spiritual Zen is a huge part of Thainess

A visit to Takuapa Old Town showcased traditional life and culture in Thailand, somewhat unchanged for more than a hundred years according locals. Buddhism is the most widely practiced faith for 94.6% of the Thai population, followed by 4.6% Thai Muslims and 0.7% of Thais are Christian. More than 92% of the population speaks Thai or one of its regional dialects. Added to this the sense of Thainess comes across with the multitude of Spirit Houses and temples to be seen. 

5. You can get away with not speaking Thai

English is widely spoken despite the official Thai language. Useful phrases to know:

- Sa-wat-dee-ka meaning blessing or good fortune is the standard hello and the polite bowing with your hands folded in a prayerful manner really is humbling to the spirit.

- Khob Khun Kha means thank you. 

6. It's safe!

Like a typical South African with a slightly fractured sense of trust, I hit panic mode every now and then when my bag or phone was out of my site. And while you should always keep your wits about you no matter where in the world you are, most of the time I felt safe and there was not a hint of any political issues or instability.

7. Thailand is a water-filled paradise

We visited Elephant Hill's Rainforest camp, one of the only floating tented camps in the world situated on Cheow Larn Lake. Swimming and Kayaking here is ethereal as the water is a crystal jade and there are no predators to worry about since it was created in 1982 by the construction of Rajjaprapha Dam by the Electricity Generating Authority of Thailand as a source of electricity. It really is spectacular.

We did a number of water-based excursions including a kayak through the lost zone of "Little Amazon" in the hidden Takuapa forest with its dense jungle of the giant banyan trees and palm forests along the "Klong Sung Nae".  

A visit to Maya Bay is a must as is snorkeling off Phi Phi island in the Andaman Sea. And that's just the few things that we tried.

8. Thai food is legendary

A visit to Thailand is a foodie's dream come true.  It doesn't matter whether you like things spicy, are more inclined to seafood or simply enjoy the simple pleasures of a vegetarian lifestyle. We sampled so many different dishes including confirmed favourites such as Phad Thai and Tom Yum Soup. Thai food is prepared from fresh ingredients daily, so much so that each town or village has its own fresh goods market. Spices add the authenticity and flavour magic. Over-indulging never felt this healthy and even the odd deep-fried tempura sides are delicious. 

Have you been to Thailand, we'd love you to share your highlights with us or come chat to us on Facebook, Twitter or Instagram.

Disclaimer: Traveller24 Editor Selene Brophy was hosted by Lesley Simpson Communication for Destination Asia and Cathay Pacific Airlines as part of a Southern Thailand media trip.  The trip included all flights, accommodation, meals and activities. 

Source: A South African's first impressions of Thailand

Rand Drops Record Low as Commodities Rout Weighs on Currency

The rand dropped to record lows against both the dollar and the euro as concern grew that China's weakening economy will deepen a rout in prices of commodities that South Africa exports and relies on for foreign exchange.

The currency of Africa's most-industrialized economy fell to as low 14.1588 against the dollar and 15.9708 to the euro. Assets in South Africa, the world's biggest platinum and manganese producer and the continent's largest of iron ore and coal, are under pressure as the price of export products retreats and concern mounts that economic growth is slowing in China, its top export destination.

Stocks in the Asian nation plunged Tuesday, with the benchmark gauge headed for the steepest quarterly drop in 17 years, after data on Monday showed industrial profits retreating the most in at least four years, while an official manufacturing report scheduled for Thursday will likely a show a contraction.

"The rand is simply suffering from being hit by both risk aversion towards high-yield currencies and the falling commodity prices," John Cairns, an analyst at FirstRand Ltd.'s Rand Merchant Bank unit, wrote in an e-mailed note. Market sentiment "remains very negative and the pressure on the rand appears relentless," he said.

Returns from raw materials fell in August to the lowest level since 1999 as supplies outstrip demand amid forecasts for the slowest Chinese growth in more than two decades. Stocks in South Africa declined to a two-week low Monday, with Kumba Iron Ore Ltd., coal producer Exxaro Resources Ltd., and world No. 3 platinum company Lonmin Plc losing more than 9 percent. Glencore Plc lost 27 percent in Hong Kong after the commodities trader and producer declined 26 percent in Johannesburg and 29 percent in London Monday.

The rand weakened 0.3 percent to 14.1004 per dollar at 8:44 a.m. in Johannesburg and was 0.5 percent weaker at 15.8925 against the euro.

Source: Rand Drops Record Low as Commodities Rout Weighs on Currency

African countries urged to increase investments in tourism

Belinda Ayamgha, GNA special correspondent, Courtesy Kenya Airways

Maasai Mara (Kenya), Sep. 28, GNA - Ms. Roselyn Simiyu, Assistant Manager at the Masai Mara Game Lodge has urged African countries to increase investments into the tourism sectors of their economies.

She said it was important that African governments focused on greater investment in and marketing of tourists sites in their respective countries as that would ensure greater number of tourists visiting their countries.

Speaking to some Ghanaian Journalists at the Sarova Mara Game Camp, located in Kenya's world famous Maasai Mara Game Reserve, Ms. Simiyu said tourism, when effectively developed and marketed, had the potential to contribute greatly to the development of nations, through the creation of jobs as well as by bringing in foreign exchange.

She noted that although Africa had beautiful tourists attractions, most of them were not well known, hence the need to invest more into marketing such destinations.

"We are really lagging behind on that front. I urge African governments to put aside more funds for tourism and to market these destinations better, as is done in places like Asia, Europe and other tourist destinations," she stated.

Ms Simiyu also stressed the importance of investments in tourism infrastructure and facilities such as hotels and transport facilities as these would facilitate the growth of tourism.

She bemoaned the low levels of intra-Africa tourism; saying Africans have taken African destinations for granted, while tourists from western countries flocked into the continent.

Using the annual Wildebeest migration from the Serengeti to the Mara, which is sometimes referred to as the seventh wonder of the world as an example, she challenged Africans to visit tourist sites on the continent, including Kenya.

She debunked claims that the destinations were expensive, adding, "Most people think the destination is expensive, it is not, and you can come at a season that you can afford. Also you can take advantage of early bird prices when you book early," she said.

Partnership with Kenya Airways

Kenya Airways as the national airline of Kenya plays a very significant role in tourism. The airline is the main transporter of tourists from various parts of the world into Kenya.

Ms. Simiyu said the Sarova Group, which is the second largest hotel chain in Kenya, partnered with KQ in order to bring tourists from other countries into Kenya. Kenya Airways also served as an ambassador of Kenya's tourists destinations in the various countries it operates, including Ghana while providing direct and affordable means for tourists to get into Kenya.

Security in Kenya

On security in Kenya and its impact on tourism, Ms. Simiyu maintained that although there had been pockets of terrorist incidents in the country, Kenya was still very safe and peaceful as the incidents happened close to the border areas of the country.

She said the fact that the Sarova Mara Game Camp continued to receive international tourists at the full capacity (75 rooms, hosting about 150 people) proved that Kenya was safe for tourism.

She added that the camp, as well as all other hotels in the reserve had gates being manned by security personnel 24 hours each day. It was also surrounded by an electric fence which helped to keep out wild animals from the camp.

Contribution to Kenyan economy

The Sarova group of hotels and game lodges, she noted, contributed a lot to the economy of the country through payments of taxes and job creation. The Group paid almost 30 percent of its profits in taxes to government annually. It also employed over 1500 Kenyans with about 60 percent of the staff at the Sarova Mara being local Maasai people.

Through its Corporate Social Responsibility, the Lodge also offered training to some of the young Maasai who could then find employment elsewhere. It also supports the local school in the community by providing maintenance for the school building.

GNA

Source: African countries urged to increase investments in tourism

Santiago Corrada: Tampa Bay area a global destination

The moment it touched down Friday afternoon at Tampa International Airport, Lufthansa German Airlines Flight 482 confirmed the Tampa Bay area's status as a world-class destination.

Lufthansa's five nonstop flights from Frankfurt, Germany, each week extend the region's reach to major cities across Asia, the Middle East and Africa.

They expand upon our ties to Latin America via Panama-based Copa Airlines, and join British Airways and Edelweiss Air at Tampa International Airport. Along with them, Emirate Airlines arrived last month in Orlando, opening the way from India via its hub in Dubai.

In short, the Tampa Bay's area's time as a global destination has arrived.

Today's Tampa area is a far cry from the distant, diffident place I knew growing up in Miami. Back then, Miami was Florida's sparkling gem: a city of glamorous Art Deco hotels, a sexy Caribbean vibe and an international reputation. The Tampa Bay region offered weekend trips for jazz, blues or cigars, but, otherwise, had little to recommend it.

That old Tampa Bay is gone.

In its place stands a diverse and vibrant region that gains praise every day for inspiring award-winning chefs, nurturing Florida's craft beer industry and developing outstanding venues such as the Tampa Riverwalk.

Our collective conviction to reach higher earned the Tampa Bay area the right to host the 2009 Super Bowl, the 2012 Republican National Convention and the 2014 International Indian Film Academy awards — three events that literally brought the world to the Tampa Bay region.

It took guts to attempt each of them and a cooperative vision to pull them off. And, even now, they continue to pay dividends.

Last week, 80 food writers from across the country visited the area, drawn by our rising profile as a must-try foodie destination. They experienced some of the best restaurants and most creative chefs we have to offer and went home excited to spread the word about these treasures we all know so well.

This month, I flew to Mumbai — my third trip to India in two years on behalf of Tampa Bay — to address to the EEMAX Global Awards, India's largest gathering of events and experiential marketers. They invited me to share Tampa Bay's success at attracting and hosting global events like IIFA.

This summer, Money magazine named Tampa Bay the best big city in the Southeast based, in part, on our growing job market, affordable home prices and cultural gems like the Tampa Museum of Art and the Straz Center for the Performing Arts.

In the two years since I became head of Visit Tampa Bay, I have traveled to Asia, Europe and South America telling the story of this amazing region. I am proud to do so.

After working hard to set our feet upon the world stage, the Tampa Bay area is reaping the rewards.

More than 20 million people visited Hillsborough County in 2014, half a million from overseas. The county's Tourist Development Tax revenue hit $25 million in August, a record that will go higher by the time the fiscal year ends Sept. 30.

We lead our competitors across the country in the pace at which we are growing hotel occupancy and profitability.

Once ignored as an economic engine, local tourism has earned respect for its ability to generate tax revenue and create jobs. Tourism puts food on the tables of thousands of Tampa Bay area families and pumps billions of dollars into the local economy every year — contributions that will grow as the region grows as an international destination.

The Tampa Bay area we live in today has changed enormously from the place I remember growing up in South Florida. More change is coming as Tampa Bay Lightning owner Jeff Vinik, Tampa International Airport and Port Tampa Bay collectively invest more than $3 billion to transform the area further with new hotels, new residential projects and new employment opportunities.

Thanks to the global vision of leaders on both sides of Tampa Bay, Lufthansa will play a major role in this region's ongoing transformation as a tourism destination. Five days a week, Europe's biggest airline will bring hundreds of visitors — tourists and business people alike — to unlock the sights, sounds and flavors of this region we all treasure: the hip, urban heart of Florida's Gulf Coast.

Santiago Corrada is the president and CEO of Visit Tampa Bay, which leads Hillsborough County's tourism operations.

Source: Santiago Corrada: Tampa Bay area a global destination

The ultimate Moroccan surfing adventure: Where professional surfers rub shoulders with amateurs and daytrippers at North Africa's premier big wave destination

Moroccan Surf Adventures was founded in 2001 by Denny Tolley and is north Africa's premier surfing getaway

Every year it hosts photo shoots and features in multiple professional surfing films and magazines

Here students on school trips mingle with the world's best surfers while others are guided to the best local waves

Others seeking sunshine and a peaceful getaway choose to relax on hammocks and participate in yoga classes 

By Corey Charlton for MailOnline

Published: 02:38 EST, 26 September 2015 | Updated: 09:22 EST, 26 September 2015

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Approximately three hours' drive from Marrakech, dotted south of the famed destination of Casablanca, lies the chaotic and sun-soaked city of Agadir.

Already a well established hot spot  for holidaymakers and sunshine seekers, in the past 15 years this bustling coastal city has become home to a new generation of thrill seekers.

This, in large part, is thanks to Londoner Denny Tolley, who created surf camp Moroccan Surf Adventures (MSA) in 2001 - thereby cementing the region's position as North Africa's premier surfing destination.

Scroll down for video 

Professional surfer Dane Reynolds gets air while riding one of the impressive surf breaks during a stay with Moroccan Surf Adventures

The camp also hosts daily yoga sessions (pictured) at some tranquil and stunning locations along the Moroccan coastline

The dining hall: Pictured is the camp's kitchen area, where guests eat breakfast and dinner together before and after surfing for the day

Although described as a surfing 'camp', the organisation is actually run from several adjoining buildings that can accommodate about 30 guests during the camp's busy winter season. Each guest has a bed and room easily the equal of any standard hotel or Airbnb would provide.

A maze of steps connect the camp buildings – though all eventually lead to the upstairs outdoor area, where after dinner visitors watch professional surfing videos projected onto the camp wall, while others, exhausted from a day on the water, lie in hammocks and deck chairs under the cool night sky, sipping beers and gazing at iPads. 

Guests at the camp choose a package which suits them, varying from beginner surfing l essons to expert guided tours. So, after a draining overnight trip from Luton Airport, and a three-hour taxi ride from Marrakech, I arrived at the MSA camp for a week of surf.

Greeted by staff member Andy Waterfield, for the next week he would act as a liaison between camp guests and the daily activities run by its staff members. Not only does he handle logistics, but also offers a constant cheerful presence around the MSA resort.

A keen surfer himself, the two of us spent many hours drinking beer and playing table tennis as we waited for dinner to be served. Nursing stiff limbs that ached from spending hours paddling through waves, it was the perfect antidote to an exhausting day.

Each day I, along with other camp guests, rose early to surf. Managing the daily excursions is ex-professional surfer Scott Rannochan, who when I visited, had just arrived back at the camp a few weeks after having surfed what was being described as the 'wave of the decade' in Indonesia.

The notoriously dangerous Indonesian wave is considered 'hol low' – it sucks up surrounding water, forming a shallow depth of just a few feet which is all that remains between the rider and the sharp underwater reef below. Riding alongside some of the best surfers on the planet, Scott, originally from Devon, still bore scars from having come perilously close to serious injury.

Professional surfer Dane Reynolds rides a massive wave during the peak swell season near Agadir, Morocco, in January this year. The expert surfer stayed with Moroccan Surf Adventures and used their knowledge of local conditions to help film a new video

The region is not just about surfing - tourists can be seen taking camel rides while surfers practice on small waves at the main beach

An ex-professional on the Europe circuit, Scott now runs the MSA surf excursions with the help of local instructors Braheim and Rachid.

With a wealth of knowledge about the Agadir coastline, each day he knew which break would prove best for the group and, with the help of the other instructors, offer guidance to the group and one-on-one individuals while out in the water.

The majority of my week was spent surfing the main beach break near the surf camp called Devil's Rock. Due to the time of the year (the swell begins to pick up in the winter months, starting in September), the waves were relatively small, but remained surfable.

A packed lunch ensures you can relax for a few hours on the beach in the middle of the day. Umbrellas provide respite for those seeking an escape from the relentless heat, while others make do with furiously applying factor 40 during their time out of the water.

When I visited in July, the water was warm enough to surf without a wetsuit – perhaps even as early as 8am – but to do so all day would be too many rays for even the most hardened sun seeker. Therefore, wetsuits are provided and most take up the offer in order to ensure they are protected.

The surfing package caters to all levels of abilities. In my case, Scott offered crucial tips to improve my footwork and turning on a 9ft hardboard.

Others in the group who had never surfed before were given softboards and taught the fundamentals – how to paddle, catch a wave and how to 'pop up' and balance.

The coastline surrounding Agadir is filled with various breaks which suit all levels of surfers. Moroccan Surf Adventures' surf guides are able to pick the ideal wave to suit their guests and transport them there each day

Pictured is one of the tiny fishing villages located along the coastline north of Agadir. On a good day with the right swell, waves break from its point all the way into the bay, offering surfers an exceptionally long ride

The crew: The Moroccan Surf Adventures team includes local surf instructors Rachid (far left) and Braheim (far right), as well as Brits Andy Waterfield (second from left) and former pro-turned instructor Scott Rannochan (second from right)

Each morning Scott, Braheim and Rachid would also suit up and offer advice while out on the water. In my case, constant reminders to drop my shoulder when turning or shuffling up and down to board in a 'foot to foot' motion were given until it became second nature.

The appeal of MSA's packages lies in its flexibility. Should the surfing prove too easy, you could upgrade to a smaller board, or pay extra for a guided lesson at one of the larger breaks up and down the coast.

Such is the wealth of breaks found along the Agadir coastline, the crew can cater to novices or some of the best on the planet and this adaptability remains central to the company's broad appeal – allowing it to accommodate secondary school trips and professional surfing film crews simultaneously.

Illustrating the high regard given not only to founder Denny Tolley and co-owner Nigel Cr oss, but also the quality of the local surf, in January professional Californian surfer Dane Reynolds and his film crew visited. After spending the sunlight hours filming, they would retire to the camp where students on a school trip, completely unaware they were in the presence of one of the world's greatest surfers, tried to beat him on the ping pong table.

Surfers have long known of the benefits yoga can provide to their bodies, and MSA also offers an optional yoga class for those hoping to improve their flexibility and strength. Run by London-born Rosannah Wadsworth, she holds classes on a designated rooftop space twice a day before and after the daily surfing excursions.

Some choose to do a yoga-heavy trip, which includes afternoon sessions in remote locations along the remote and stunning coastline at the expense of an afternoon surfing session. Classes are designed for amateurs through to experts, and I atten ded two classes (successfully!) without ever having practised before.

Rosannah Wadsworth (pictured), from London, is a trained yoga instructor and holds optional classes twice a day at the Moroccan Surf Adventures camp

As camp manager, gregarious chef Momo cooks the camp dinners daily and hosts a once-weekly cooking class. Here you are taught the surprisingly simple way to cook a tagine – one of Morocco's staple dishes.

Cooked and steamed inside a clay pot (a tagine), the delicious and spices-heavy pot is placed on top of hot coals and its ingredients layered according to their required cooking times.

By adding a small amount of water, the meat at the bottom of the pot doesn't dry out or stick and turns into a delicious sauce infused with the spices, while steam trapped under the clay lid cooks those ingredients placed at the top.

To cater to Moroccans who eat with their hands, the ingredients should be spaced evenly around the pot so no one is required to reach across another to grasp any specific ingredient. This, we were assured, would earn a slap on the wrist were you sharing a meal with Momo's mother.

Camp manager Momo (pictured) talks camp guests through the secrets of cooking an authentic Moroccan fish tagine

Much of the surfing takes place at a beach break (pictured) known as Devil's Rock, but for those wanting to take a step up, guided tours are available for many other spots along the coast

While the camp is advertised around the surfing, which remains its primary offering, the various other activities on offer means your stay is flexible enough that all types of guests are catered for.

During my visit, there were solo travellers, couples and la rger groups present. Another two guests comprised a father who wanted his 10-year-old son to learn to surf. Indeed, one couple staying at the camp had not paid for the surfing package – they simply enjoyed the atmosphere and paid extra if they felt like surfing on the day.

This is why MSA remains Agadir's primary destination for both pro and amateur surfers as well as holidaymakers looking for something a bit different to a resort package.

Guaranteed sun, hot days, and surf breaks which vary enough to offer something for all levels make it a charming and relaxing holiday getaway.

Those seeking larger waves should wait until the winter months, which is when the best swells hit. But after its closure during Ramadan, late summer is still a viable time to visit, when you can enjoy the warmer weather while still catching some swell.

With many companies n ow intent on giving their guests something exclusive, MSA has cornered the market when considering the overall surfing holiday package. For this reason alone, its grip on the Moroccan surfing holiday will remain firm in years to come.

TRAVEL FACTS: MOROCCAN SURF ADVENTURES' PACKAGES, DESIGNED FOR THE BEST AND THE BEGINNERS

BEGINNER

'Our Surfing Lessons Package is designed to put a smile on your face. You will be tutored in all things surfing by one of our experienced and qualified instructors. We believe in teaching proper form and technique, in a fun and understanding atmosphere, to give you a solid surfing foundation to build upon and take your surfing to the next level. You will also receive a grounding in water safety, ocean awareness, surfing etiquette and wave conditions whilst riding gentle waves in warm Moroccan waters.'

Prices start at £449 per week (all equipment provided).

INTERMEDIATE

'You may be slightly nervous about surfing over rocks or reef, however our experienced guides will show you spots that will push your boundaries! Morocco has an incredibly diverse coastline that provides intermediate surfers with the perf ect conditions and space to progress. Our aim is to guide you to the best conditions for you to find you the wave of your life.'

Prices start at £399 per week.

EXPERT

'We guarantee to source the best surfing conditions for you and your group on any given day, time or tide. Our local guides have been brought up here and are passionate about their region. They will happily cover miles to deliver you to the best waves.'

Prices start at £399 per week.

Moroccan Surf Adventures, www.morocsurf.com

 

 

Source: The ultimate Moroccan surfing adventure: Where professional surfers rub shoulders with amateurs and daytrippers at North Africa's premier big wave destination

Ethiopian premier calls on investors to make African their preferred destination

Copyright : APA

Ethiopian Prime Minister Hailemaariam Desalegn on Friday called on investors across the world to make Africa their preferred investment destination.Desalegn was speaking at an investment forum held on the sidelines of the 70th regular session of the UN General Assembly where six African countries, including Ethiopia showcased their experiences.

Leaders from the six countries which include Uganda, Liberia, Malawi, South Sudan and Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), took part in the forum.

The premier said the continent is growing rapidly not only in terms of its economy, but also in human resource development.

He said activities are underway to make Africa conducive for investment, a peaceful, financially stable and corruption-free continent.

The other participating African leaders also briefed the participants on what they have been doing to attract investments into their countries and encourage the private sector.

Signature : APA

Copyright : © APA

Source: Ethiopian premier calls on investors to make African their preferred destination

Kenya among top ten most searched destinations, says report

A new study has linked the recent government initiatives to improve ICT infrastructure with booming local tourism.

The report released Wednesday by hotel booking firm Jovago shows — thanks to a reliable high-speed internet — that up to 63 per cent of Kenyans now book hotel accommodation less than a week ahead of their check-in date as another 26 per cent prefer booking less than a day.

About 51.7 per cent of the Kenyan population had reliable access to the internet by December last year, according to the Jovago East and Southern Africa study.

Also, 53 per cent of Kenyans use online payment methods while 47 per cent pay at the hotel.

"Customers consider mobile payments to be of lower transaction risk compared to card payments," the report says.

KENYA A TOP TRAVEL DESTINATION

The study conducted between 2013 and 2015 puts Kenya among 10 most searched destinations online.

"This is because Kenya's tourism industry is diverse with quite affordable accommodation facilities," the report adds.

However, insecurity, cost of doing business, over-reliance on foreign tourists, among others remain the biggest threats to growth of hospitality sector.

Jovago East Africa Managing Director Estelle Verdier noted that clashes in the Coastal region and rampant terror attacks as well as Ebola outbreak in West Africa threatened to choke the fledgling sector.

"The industry is however getting back on track. The lifting of the United Kingdom ban on nonessential visits on July 2015, President Obama's visit, and scheduled conferences by Africa Travels Association are great endorsements on the country's security which has been a major issue," she said. 

Meanwhile, according to Jovago, Naivasha has the highest demand for five-star hotels at 13 per cent as Nairobi, Mombasa, and Diani Beach tie at 10 per cent.

Nakuru tops in demand for two-star hotels at 43 per cent followed by Nairobi at 27 per cent.

Kisumu has the lowest number of hotel rooms at 7,069, Nairobi has 58,071 and Mombasa has 24,647 rooms.

Most Kenyans, however, are still not frequent travellers, and will mostly travel for familial obligations.

"It is paramount that travel agents, the hotel industry, and the public sector work together to shed light on many of the unknown destinations and thereby support the growth of local tourism," the report says.

Source: Kenya among top ten most searched destinations, says report

Damage From South Africa’s Visa Changes May Take Year to Fix

The proof is now in the pudding for South Africa as travelers choose other destinations where the visa process is simpler or where one doesn't exist at all.

— Dan Peltier

South Africa's tourism industry would need six to 12 months to recover its growth trajectory even if the government immediately scrapped new visa requirements blamed for a drop in international arrivals, according to the World Travel and Tourism Council.

The number of international visitors to the country dropped by 11% between May and August after the government introduced the new measures, according to the council. Tourism was forecast to grow by 4% in the period.

"Our data show that the new visa requirements are the primary cause for the drop," David Scowsill, president and chief executive of the council, said by phone on Wednesday. "If you add the fact that the South African tourism sector was forecast to grow 4% annually, it means it is now facing an effective 15% decline."

The new measures include a stipulation that children entering South Africa must be accompanied by an adult in possession of a birth certificate that names both parents, and a requirement that prospective travelers attend a South African consulate to capture biometric data before departure.

"What we want is for biometric data to be captured at the airports on a person's arrival, as practiced by Australia and the U.S., and the scrapping of the birth-certificate requirement entirely," Scowsill said.

To contact the reporter on this story: Paul Vecchiatto in Cape Town at pvecchiatto@bloomberg.net To contact the editors responsible for this story: Gordon Bell at gbell16@bloomberg.net Robert Brand

This article was written by Paul Vecchiatto from Bloomberg and was legally licensed through the NewsCred publisher network.

Source: Damage From South Africa's Visa Changes May Take Year to Fix

South Africa Still Africa’s Top Investment Destination, Nigeria Slips

South Africa is still the most attractive investment destination in Africa despite facing several challenges that have slowed its economy, a new Rand Merchant Bank (RMB) report showed.

The Africa's  second largest economy after Nigeria, is faced with lethargic energy crisis due to its aging power grid, labor unrest in the mining industry which has been hurt by lower commodity prices on the international market and other contagion side-effect from an economic slowdown in china and strengthening US market.

While the country's ranking globally has fallen to 41 from 33 last year,  it is still the most attractive market for foreign investors seeking opportunities among Africa's 54 nations, according to the 2015-16 RMB Where to Invest in Africa report.

"South Africa comes through consistently as one of the best environments to do business in, in Africa," Nema Ramkhelawan-Bhana, Africa analyst at Rand Merchant Bank, told Moneyweb in an interview.

Nigeria, Africa's largest economy is however not doing well in the ranking.

The West African nation of 170 million people has slipped to the fifth position in Africa from the second position in 2014. It has been overtaken by Egypt, which is recovering from its fall during the Arab Spring, and Morocco and Ghana.

"Nigeria's descent to number five is attributed to a combination of local deterrents and its relative economic underperformance over the last year," BDlive quoted RMB saying in the report.

"We are encouraged by the peaceful transition of power and continue to believe in the country's long-term economic viability based on the sheer size of its economy and the prospect of a demographic dividend."

Nigeria, the most populous country in Africa with a population of more than 170 million people, held a peaceful presidential election in March in which the first ever opposition candidate defeated the incumbent.

Other African countries also in the top ten in the RMB ranking are Ethiopia, Tunisia, Algeria, Tanzania and Kenya.

Source: South Africa Still Africa's Top Investment Destination, Nigeria Slips

What are The Most Gay-Friendly Destinations?

Photo courtesy of Thinkstock

Thomas Stanley, who has a 40-year history as a tour operator that includes positions with Travcoa, Cox & Kings, Trafalgar, Mountain Travel – Sobek and Lindblad Travel, is also one of the world's experts on gay and lesbian travel.

Today Stanley is the owner of Stanley's Adventures LLC, which specializes in customized travel products for sophisticated travelers and operates the websites ChicBizTravel.com, TheChicAdventurer.com, ChicGayTraveler.com, ChicHoneymoons.com and ChicGayHoneymoons.com.

He knows and understands the gay and lesbian travel market and knows well the kinds of concerns that gay and lesbian travelers have that others may not be aware of, such as the fact that in some countries it is a criminal offense to be homosexual and it often carries harsh penalties.

Stanley has personally and professionally traveled extensively, almost incessantly, for more than 40 years, and he understands well how to advise gay and lesbian travelers on where and how to travel safely and enjoyably.

Here is his spontaneous, quick-hit listing of the world's most gay-friendly destinations.

South Africa

South Africa is one of the most gay-friendly destinations in the world, Stanley said, and in some ways it is the most advanced country in its attitude toward gays. The modern republic of South Africa, which is only a little more than 20 years in existence, was founded on Nelson Mandela's vision of the Rainbow Nation, a place where all people respect each other regardless of differences in race, religion, etc., and where diversity is not only tolerated, it is celebrated.

"South Africa was the first country to have constitutional gay rights, the first country in Africa to have gay marriage," said Stanley. "For the most part it is a more enlightened country in terms of gay rights, South Africa is extremely gay friendly."  

Though South Africa may lead the world in terms of gay rights, most other countries in Africa are not as gay friendly. "In the French-speaking countries typically it's legal," said Stanley. "In the English-speaking countries, under Victorian law, it tends to be illegal to be gay."

Israel

Turning to Northern Africa and the Middle East, Stanley said, "Israel is extremely gay friendly, though they don't allow gay marriage.

Lebanon

"Lebanon tends to be gay friendly," said Stanley. "In the gay districts people can be in the open, but outside of gay districts they have to be discreet."

Although Morocco is a moderate, not extreme Muslim country, it is not very gay friendly. "In Morocco some have been arrested for being affectionate in public, An English gentleman and his Moroccan friend were arrested for being affectionate in public, for holding hands or something like that. It goes against the norm of a moderate Muslim company that still has modesty, whereas in Lebanon women go to the beach in bikinis."

Spain and Portugal

In Europe, Stanley rates Spain as the most gay-friendly destination, with Portugal coming in second.

"To me Spain is the most gay-friendly country on earth," said Stanley. "It was one of the early countries to adopt gay marriage. It actively welcomes gay tourists, and markets to gay tourists. Spain and Portugal are probably the friendliest countries in Europe for gay people.

Sweden and Iceland

"Sweden would probably be the next one," said Stanley, "and Iceland. Iceland is extremely gay friendly. Almost all of Western Europe tends to be gay friendly, certainly gay tolerant. In Eastern Europe it's a different story. It's legal to be gay in pretty much all of Eastern Europe. That said, certain countries, like Serbia, Ukraine and Russia, you don't dare be open in public in those countries or you face threat of arrest or violence.

Hungary, Slovenia and Croatia

"Hungary is much friendlier," said Stanley. "I haven't sent anyone to Romania or Bulgaria for a long time, so I'm not sure about them. Hungary and Slovenia are the most gay-friendly countries of Eastern Europe. Croatia is pretty gay friendly."

Thailand and Taiwan 

In Asia, Thailand and Taiwan are the most gay-friendly countries. "For the most part, the Buddhist countries are gay tolerant, gay accepting. Malaysia is not tolerant. Bangladesh and Pakistan are not tolerant. Muslim countries are not gay friendly. Indonesia is a Muslim country, but it also has Hindus in Bali It tends to be gay tolerant. Singapore is kind of neutral. They discourage gay events or affection, but people don't get arrested.

China, Japan and Korea

China, Japan and Korea are gay tolerant countries. "They are used to seeing gay people," said Stanley.

Vietnam, Cambodia and Laos

"Vietnam is very gay friendly," said Stanley, "as are Cambodia and Laos. Vietnam allows gay weddings, but not legal gay marriage. But they will not arrest for that. Some other countries will arrest people for having gay weddings. Vietnam, Cambodia and Laos are quite good."

Brazil, Argentina, Uruguay and Colombia

"South American for the most part is good for gay people," said Stanley. "Brazil, Argentina, Uruguay and Colombia are gay friendly. Almost all the other countries are tolerant. Probably the least tolerant are Venezuela and Guiana. In Guiana, it's illegal to be gay.

Mexico and Costa Rica

In Central America, the most gay-friendly destinations are Costa Rica and Mexico. "Mexico is very gay friendly," said Stanley, "and has gay marriage now. There is one country in Central America where it is illegal to be gay and even to enter the country, and that is Belize. That said, gay clients who go to Belize, the hotels typically take care of them very well. But you're actually committing a crime by entering Belize if you're gay.

Cuba, Dominican Republic, Puerto Rico and St Martin

"In the Caribbean, painting in broad strokes, the Spanish- French- and Dutch-speaking islands tend to be very gay tolerant, including Cuba, Dominican Republic, Puerto Rico and St Marten. Curacao actively woos gay customers. The government finances marketing campaigns to gay clients. There are issues with the English-speaking countries, in Jamaica, and there have been some issues with the Bahamas."

In addition, Stanley cites Australia, New Zealand, French Polynesia and Nepal as all being very gay friendly.

Source: What are The Most Gay-Friendly Destinations?

Tanzanian lodge wins top award

Travel 

Sunday, September 20, 2015 

READY TO GUIDE: Ledger said he was extremely proud of his team who have worked diligently to elevate the experiences of their guests and win their approval.

DAR ES SALAAM, Tanzania – Singita Serengeti (Pty) Limited, operators of Singita Serengeti, last week were given the Condé Nast Traveller Readers' Travel Award. 

Graham Ledger Singita Serengeti Managing Director said:  "I am extremely proud of my team.  We have been working diligently for years making sure that every facet of the business is treated with the utmost care and attention which in turn elevates the guest experience to levels that are truly world class."

He said  his team are humbled, honoured and thrilled with winning this prestigious award from Condé Nast. 

Devota Mdachi , the  acting Managing  Director of Tanzania Tourist Board (TTB)

said:  "Having just recently launched our new campaign to brand Tanzania as one of Africa's best tourist destinations, I am excited that Singita Serengeti are working very well to promote our tourism and hospitality industry which in turn places Tanzania at a higher position as one of the most preferred destinations in the world."

Singita Serengeti was chosen as the 'Best hotel in the world for service', taking second place in the 'Best Hotels in the Middle East, Africa and  Indian Ocean category, and third place in the 'Top 100 Travel Experiences in the World'.

This was after readers and visitors voted it the best in terms of its location, service and the guides, trackers, chefs, cleaners and waiters.

According to him Tanzania will also benefit hugely as a destination on the world travel calendar as awards such as these bring a lot of positive attention and enormous credibility to the host country. 

"Being recognized as the best Hotel in the World for Service from an influential magazine like the Condé Nast Traveller is an honour and it demonstrates that Singita Serengeti is on the right track where hospitality is concerned," Ledger said.

Recently President Jakaya Kikwete officially launched a high quality television advert with the tag line of branding Tanzania as the 'The Soul of Africa' and an online Tourism Destination Portal. 

The new advert will be aired in CNN and BBC for six months from October this year. Before rebranding, in the world tourism markets, Tanzania was known as the 'Land of Kilimanjaro, Zanzibar and The Serengeti'.

With an estimated readership of over one million readers worldwide, Condé Nast Traveller UK is the foremost authority in unbiased travel and destination reporting, and is globally renowned as one of the world's leading travel magazines.

Singita has developed from a single-lodge company to one that is now responsible for a million acres of land, operating 12 lodges and camps in five wilderness regions across three African countries Tanzania, South Africa and Zimbabwe.

By Timothy Kitundu, Sunday, September 20th, 2015

Source: Tanzanian lodge wins top award

Ethiopian to start flights to Yaoundé, it’s Second City in Cameroun

Press Release

Ethiopian Airlines, the largest and most profitable African Airline, is pleased to announce that it has finalized preparations to start new services to Yaoundé, Nsimalen International Airport on October 25, 2015.

The capital of Cameroon, Yaoundé, is the second largest city in the country after the port city of Doula.

The four weekly flights to Yaoundé is Ethiopian second destination in Cameroon and offers customers an added convenience and connectivity options via Addis Ababa, Ethiopian Hub, to its global network. Ethiopian has been serving the city of Douala since 1971 and has been offering uninterrupted service since 2003.

Flight No. Departure days & time Arrival days & time ET913 from ADD via LIB Sun, Wed 08:43 Sun, Wed 13:28 ET913 from NSI Sun, Wed 14:30 Sun, Wed 20:35 ET923 from ADD Mon, Fri 8:43 Mon, Fri 10:48 ET923 from NSI Mon, Fri 11:50 Mon, Fri 20:10

Chief Executive Officer of Ethiopian Airlines Group, Ato Tewolde Gebremariam, said: "With this new service, our flights will facilitate a greater people-to-people, trade, investment and tourism movement between our two sisterly African countries and the entire flourishing continent. We are also delighted to have the opportunity to provide our customers a new choice of fast and efficient connectivity via our Addis Ababa gateway to and from our global network together with a multiple award winning customer service and care."

Ethiopian is a truly indigenous Pan-African global carrier that operates the youngest and the most modern fleet in the continent with an average aircraft age of less than 7 years. Ethiopian currently serves 91 international destinations across 5 continents with over 232 daily departures.

About Ethiopian

Ethiopian Airlines (Ethiopian) is the fastest growing Airline in Africa. In its close to seven decades of operations, Ethiopian has become one of the continent's leading carriers, unrivalled in efficiency and operational success.

Ethiopian commands the lion share of the pan-African passenger and cargo network operating the youngest and most modern fleet to more than 91 international destinations across five continents. Ethiopian fleet includes ultra-modern and environmentally friendly aircraft such as the Boeing 787, Boeing 777-300ER, Boeing 777-200LR, Boeing 777-200 Freighter and Bombardier Q-400 with double cabin. In fact, Ethiopian is the first airline in Africa to own and operate these aircraft.

Ethiopian is currently implementing a 15-year strategic plan called Vision 2025 that will see it become the leading aviation group in Africa with seven business centers: Ethiopian Domestic and Regional Airline; Ethiopian International Passenger Airline; Ethiopian Cargo; Ethiopian MRO; Ethiopian Aviation Academy; Ethiopian In-flight Catering Services; and Ethiopian Ground Service. Ethiopian is a multi-award winning airline registering an average growth of 25% in the past seven years.

For more information about this press release, please contact:

Manager PR & Publications

Ethiopian Airlines

Tel: (251-1) 517-84-07/656/165/913/529

publicrelations@ethiopianairlines.com

www.ethiopianairlines.com

www.facebook.com/ethiopianairlines

www.twitter.com/flyethiopian

Source: Ethiopian to start flights to Yaoundé, it's Second City in Cameroun

A new online platform presents Africa to global travelers

For too long has African tourism narrative been restricted to a few destinations, and Safaris. A new online platform presents Africa to global travelers like they've never seen it before.

Hip Africa (http://www.hipafrica.com) the first and only definitive guide to the best spots to eat, sleep and play in Africa's most sought after destinations, launched last week with 5 initial key cities: Lagos, Accra, Nairobi, Dakar and Johannesburg.

Hip Africa is set to take off as the go-to brand for high end travel in Africa, which transcends the old safari narrative, offering up the continent as a viable place for city breaks, great restaurants, arts and culture, and a swathe of boutique and luxury hotels.

Africa has emerged in recent years as one of the fastest growing regions for hotel development, with 50,000 hotels in the pipeline: a topic will be the subject of panel discussions, networking and deal making at the high profile Africa Hotel Investment Forum taking place in Addis Ababa 30th September – 1st October.

This activity is reflective of a wider trend: Africa's emergence as the last tourism frontier, with a growing number of internationals visiting the continent year on year, and the upsurge of intra-Africa travel.

Global travel accounts for almost 10% of global GDP, and is an industry that enjoys year on year uninterrupted growth.  Africa's tourism take off is inevitable.

Hip Africa speaks to a sophisticated audience from Europe to the US, Asia, and most importantly across Africa itself – both business and leisure travelers.

Hip Africa showcases a carefully selected list of hotels and 'hip spots'  – including restaurants, art galleries, museums, shopping spots and escapes – with high quality photography and editorially independent reviews.

It is London based, however its content is provided by a team of journalists, photographers, and movers and shakers on the ground across Africa, keeping readers in the know and up to date.

"We aim to inform our readers, and give them the practical tools for visiting and moving around what is arguably the most exciting continent in the world," says Ruby Audi, the Ghanaian/British founder.

Hip Africa will soon be unveiling a number of new cities, on every corner of the continent, and will eventually cover over 30 destinations in 20 countries.

Source: A new online platform presents Africa to global travelers

Abu Dhabi seeks to draw visitors from South Africa

Abu Dhabi Tourism & Culture Authority (TCA Abu Dhabi) is participating in a travel trade roadshow to the three South African cities of Johannesburg, Durban and Cape Town.

TCA Abu Dhabi is undertaking the three-city roadshow to increase awareness about Abu Dhabi and position the emirate as a preferred destination in South Africa.

"This inaugural Abu Dhabi roadshow is one of the most important initiatives on our annual South Africa promotional calendar as it gives us the opportunity to interact and engage with our travel trade partners who remain highly influential in stimulating consumer bookings," said Mubarak Al Nuaimi, director of promotions and overseas offices, TCA Abu Dhabi.

Up to 600 travel agents and tour operator experts are expected to attend the roadshow.

The delegation of Abu Dhabi stakeholders and South African travel trade partners - ranging from accommodation establishments to ground handlers - will be joined by Etihad Airways and its partner South African Airways.

For Sharaf Tours, a priority is to gain traction from the South African trade to boost business on the leisure and MICE fronts following the addition of South African Airways services in March to increase Etihad Airways capacity with double daily flights from Johannesburg.

"South Africa is a growing market with lots of potential. We are developing Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, stop-over and family-oriented weekend packages, and have appointed a representative in South Africa," said Satheesh V.M., Sharaf Tours' general manager.

South Africa has been climbing the top performing markets index since TCA Abu Dhabi's representative office opened in Johannesburg last February.

- business@khaleejtimes.com

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Source: Abu Dhabi seeks to draw visitors from South Africa

Nigeria Will Remain Number One Investment Destination In Africa – Buhari

President Muhammadu Buhari on Tuesday, said that his administration will do all within its powers to sustain Nigeria's position as the number one investment destination in Africa.

According to a statement from the Nigerian President's office, President Buhari told entrepreneurs in Paris that "with a blessed land rich in agricultural and mineral resources, skilled and low-cost labour, large market, a robust and competitive private sector anchored on investment policies and legislation to guarantee predictability and consistency with global business practices, we are poised for double digit growth".

"Industrialising Nigeria"

"There is much more to our country than oil and we are determined to consolidate on industrialising Nigeria and diversifying its economy.

"The privatisation of key sectors of our economy, which started under previous administrations, will be pursued and expanded to include other sectors. This exercise will be conducted in an open, transparent and competitive manner.

"We recognise the private sector as the engine of growth and a veritable partner in our economic agenda and will therefore, give the fullest possible support to foreign and domestic entrepreneurs.

"Our administration is poised to redress the serious infrastructural gaps in Nigeria, raise production to create more jobs, build capital and stimulate further growth and prosperity of the country," the Nigerian President stressed.

The President said that one of the key objectives of his administration's ongoing economic reforms was to restore the confidence of investors in the Nigerian economy.

Addressing leading French businessmen and investors at the headquarters of the Movement of the Enterprises of France (MEDEF), President Buhari also reaffirmed his government's determination to curb corruption in Nigeria.

"Our ongoing economic reforms are designed to restore business confidence and block leakages and wastage of public resources. We are also focused on the recovery of stolen wealth belonging to the country," the Nigerian leader told participants in a Nigeria/France Investment Forum.

The President of MEDEF, Pierre Gattaz, announced that the umbrella organisation of about 800,000 French manufacturing firms and businesses will undertake a trade mission to Nigeria next month.

Mr Gattaz said that the MEDEF trade delegation would comprise of prospective investors in agriculture, mining, automobiles, energy, skills development, light manufacturing, food processing, transportation services and many other areas.

Source: Nigeria Will Remain Number One Investment Destination In Africa – Buhari

South Africa ranked number one investment destination for UK in sub-Saharan Africa

South Africa has been identified as the top investment destination in sub-Saharan Africa for UK firms looking to expand, according to overall rankings in the Barclays Africa Trade Index.14 Sep 2015

The index, which combined "a wide range of measures to assess opportunity and openness" across 31 countries in the region, ranked nations "with the most open and potentially lucrative countries coming out on top".

According to the index (21-page / 1MB PDF), "while South Africa is the standout performer in the overall index, Nigeria arguably represents the most exciting long-term opportunity for UK businesses in sub-Saharan Africa".

Nigeria, ranked second, already imports around $2.4 billion in goods from the UK each year, making it the second largest market for exporters after South Africa, the index said. However, Nigeria's performance in terms of openness (12th) and intra-African connectivity (16th) means that the country "still has a long way to go before it can hope to compete with South Africa as a regional trade hub or as a gateway to other African markets".

The index said that "in order to achieve a higher degree of trade openness, Nigeria needs to address a range of business environment deficiencies that create great uncertainty and hidden costs for foreign firms, while investing heavily in transport networks and power provision to reduce non-tariff barriers to trade".

Nigeria "is potentially a profitable market for UK-based companies that know how to operate in its complex regulatory environment and that can overcome the logistical difficulties posed by the inadequate infrastructure, for example, by providing their own power and water supplies", the index said.

Kenya, which ranked third in the overall index, "plays the role of a regional leader, offering logistics routes and administrative solutions to facilitate cross-border trade, as well as pushing for regional policy on areas of policy, infrastructure and administration". Kenya's role as a central trade hub for East Africa "is evident in strong transport-related scores, particularly regional and global air connectivity", the index said.

Intra-African investments are increasing, led by South African, Nigerian and Kenyan firms, with most investments to date in manufacturing, services, information and communications technology and consumer goods, the index said. "Between 2009 and 2013, the share of announced cross-border green-field investment projects originating from within Africa rose to 18% of the total, from less than 10% in 2003-2008."

In terms of the UK's trade with the region, the index said around £8.2bn worth of goods were exported to sub-Saharan Africa in 2013, "made up of high-value manufactured products including machinery and equipment, road vehicles and chemical products, as well as fast-moving food and beverages".

According to the index, the majority of UK exports traded with sub-Saharan Africa are destined for South Africa, followed by Nigeria, Botswana, Angola, Kenya, Ghana and Senegal. "The UK tends to account for between 4-5% of total imports in these seven countries and has a foothold of between 1-3% in the fast-growing countries of Tanzania, Cote d'Ivoire, Ethiopia, Zambia and Cameroon."

UK-based firms "have a distinct advantage" in Africa in terms of being able "to leverage cultural and linguistic commonalties and political connections", the index said.

Earlier this year, a partnership was launched by the UK's development finance institution (CDC) and the Norwegian Investment Fund for Developing Countries (Norfund), to acquire a "significant minority" stake in Globeleq Africa from the Actis infrastructure 2 fund. The funds said their partnership aimed to tackle "bottlenecks" that can interrupt infrastructure projects in the early stages of development.

Source: South Africa ranked number one investment destination for UK in sub-Saharan Africa

From Amazon adventures to a safari in West Africa: The top fly-cruises on offer for travellers short on time

The world is your oyster, especially thanks to the many cruises on offer

Fly to join ships departing from ports worldwide for exciting destinations

Explore the Amazon or head to Africa for a safari, journeying via liner

By Caroline Hendrie For The Mail On Sunday

Published: 17:00 EST, 12 September 2015 | Updated: 02:20 EST, 13 September 2015

View comments

A cruise is a wonderful way to see the world. 

There is no continent out of reach. But most of us don't have the time to get to Africa, South America or even the Med by sea, so flying to join the ship makes sense.

Here are the most interesting and relaxing fly-cruises available to book now. All the prices include flights and transfers to the ship.

Enjoy Venice, Rome and Florence aboard P&O Cruises' Oceana

On P&O's Oceana, you can jump on board at Venice in October, or head to the Caribbean on December, returning in time for Christmas

The Oceana is down a round-trip from Venice on October 7, from £949pp.   

The mid-size ship also calls at Corfu, Genoa, Naples and Dubrovnik. Or jet off for winter sun in the Caribbean on December 11 and return in tim e for Christmas. 

The 12-night cruise on family-friendly big ship Azura, sailing from Barbados, costs from £1,699pp.

pocruises.com, 0843 374 0111

Take a post-Christmas break with Viking Cruises' trip from Barcelona to Rome

Jump off at Rome to see sights such as the Colosseum and Vatican, during the Viking Star's winter cruise

Viking Cruises, best known for river cruises, launched its first ocean ship, Viking Star, this year with perks usually only found on river vessels – free wi-fi, wine with meals and shore excursions are all included in the fare.

Spend Christmas Day at sea being waited on hand and foot on an eight-night cruise from Barcelona to Rome, departing on December 22. 

The luxury, all-balcony-cabin ship stays overnight in Barcelona and calls at Toulon, Monte Carlo and Ajaccio in Corsica, too. Prices start at £2,699pp.

vikingcruises.co.uk, 0800 319 6660

Sail across the Atlantic and Medit erranean with Mundy Cruising 

See the Mediterranean from the comforts of the Crystal Symphony, calling at Bermuda, the Azores, Barcelona and Bandol on the Cote d'Azur – before arriving in Monte Carlo 

Journey across the Mediterranean and the Atlantic to the fabulous sound of big band music aboard the Crystal Symphony. 

The 16-night cruise, which starts in Miami, has many relaxing days at sea for concerts and lectures. 

It has just four ports of call – Bermuda, the Azores, Barcelona and Bandol on the Cote d'Azur – before arriving in Monte Carlo. 

The cost, from £3,640pp, includes a three-night stay in Miami Beach starting on March 22, 2016, and a night in Monte Carlo at the end of the cruise.

mundycruising.co.uk, 020 7399 7670

Discover W est Africa on a 24-night adventure departing in October with the Regent 

Journey round West Africa on the Seven Seas Voyager cruise in October, which even has a three-night post-cruise safari in South Africa

Explore West Africa on a 24-night voyage from Lisbon to Cape Town with luxury all-inclusive line Regent, departing on October 31. 

Seven Seas Voyager calls at the Canary Islands, Senegal, Ghana, Togo, Benin and Namibia and ends with a three-night post-cruise safari in South Africa. 

The cost, from £5,999pp, includes unlimited excursions ashore, drinks on board and gratuities.

rssc.com, 02380 682280

Sail up the Amazon and explore the jungle on a Ramblers Cruise and Walk holiday in February

Travel up the Amazon for an unforgettable jungle trek with the  Ramblers Cruise and Walk holiday 

Journey up the Amazon and trek in the jungle on a Ramblers Cruise and Walk holiday aboard Fred.Olsen ship, Braemar. 

After four days at sea from Barbados, the ship makes four calls in Brazil, including Manaus, the rubber-boom city 1,000 miles from the ocean, where the ship stays overnight. 

On the return you'll go ashore at notorious former French prison colony Devil's Island. 

The 16-night cruise, departing on February 3, 2016, costs from £2,475pp.

cruiseandwalk.co.uk, 01707 386767

While most of us don't have the time to get to Africa, South America or even the Med by sea,  flying to join the ship makes sense

 

Source: From Amazon adventures to a safari in West Africa: The top fly-cruises on offer for travellers short on time

Brand South Africa adopting novel model to create partnerships

Firmly entrenched as the conduit for connecting businesses with the view to positioning South Africa as an investment destination of choice, Brand South Africa is taking networking and partnerships to the next level. Octagon South Africa - part of the global Octagon sports, entertainment, lifestyle marketing and talent representation agency of the Interpublic Group - has been selected as the company to work closely with Brand South Africa to create significant partnerships for blue chip clients.

Established in 2002, Brand South Africa is mandated to position South Africa as a competitive business and investment destination. "It will be Octagon's role to conceptualise and package opportunities for businesses that will not only complement Brand South Africa's key priorities and programmes, but assist in cementing partnerships that will derive mutual and sustainable value," says Sithembile Ntombela, Brand South Africa's Acting Chief Marketing Officer.

The three-year appointment will see Octagon delivering value and increased reach amongst corporate partners, against a number of Brand South Africa's signature programmes. This includes Play Your Part, a nationwide campaign created to inspire, empower and celebrate active citizenship in South Africa, the South African Competitiveness Forum and the Team South Africa's participation at the World Economic Forum amongst others.

"For the past two decades Octagon South Africa has developed innovative marketing strategies to keep clients one step ahead of the ever-changing industry landscape. Our track record demonstrates our flexibility to adapt to movements in the industry and understand how solid business connections are formed," says Qondisa Ngwenya, Group CEO of Octagon.

"What differentiates us is our ingenuity, creativity, and passion-based approach so we won't be tackling sponsorship in its traditional form but rather working closely with Brand South Africa to open doors and refresh corporate relationships for firmer collaborations," concludes Ngwenya.

Octagon South Africa's portfolio of other clients include the likes of FIFA, Standard Bank, Mastercard and the Department of Arts and Culture.

Source: Brand South Africa adopting novel model to create partnerships

Two Moroccan Museums Among Nominees for Leading Culture Destinations awards

Rabat – Mohammed VI Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art in Rabat and the Marrakech Museum for Photography and Visual Arts are among the nominees for the leading Culture Destinations awards.

The awards celebrate the best-not-for-profit visual arts institutions around the world.

The two Moroccan museums are competing in the best new culture destination in Africa category, along with the Ouidah Museum of History (Benin) and Senegal's thread arts museum of the Josef and Anni Albers Foundation.

The other categories are: Leading Culture Destination, Leading Culture Destination for Exhibitions & Programming, leading culture destination for architecture & Spatial Design, leading Culture Destination for Eating & Drinking, Leading Culture Destination for Shop, Leading Culture Destination for Digital Experience, Best City for Culture (Jury award), Best New Culture Destination (Jury award), and the Best Art Experience in a Hotel (Jury award).

The Leading Culture Destinations awards ceremony will be held on October 9 at the Jumeirah Hotel in London.

© Morocco World News. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, rewritten or redistributed without permission

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Source: Two Moroccan Museums Among Nominees for Leading Culture Destinations awards

Global tourist numbers up 4.0 percent in first half: UN

Madrid (AFP) - The number of international tourists rose by 4.0 percent worldwide during the first half of 2015 although security and health concerns hit hard some African destinations, the UN World Tourism Organization said Thursday.

Some 538 million tourists made trips to international destinations between January and June 2015 -- 21 million more compared with the same period last year, the Madrid-based body said in a statement.

"These results show that, despite increased volatility, tourism continues to consolidate the positive performance it has had over the last five years and to provide development and economic opportunities worldwide," said the organization's head Taleb Rifai.

Global tourism figures were hard hit by the global financial crisis, declining 4.0 percent in 2009 as an outbreak of swine flu also contributed to cash-strapped people staying at home but have risen in each year since.

Asia, the Middle East and Europe, the world's most visited region, all saw a five percent increase in arrivals, with the Americas posting growth of 4.0 percent.

But Africa saw a drop of 6.0 percent.

North Africa, which was shaken by terrorist attacks in Tunisia, a popular lower-cost beach holiday spot for Europeans, saw arrivals fall by 10 percent while sub-Saharan Africa had a decline of 4.0 percent.

"Alongside the impacts of the terrorist attacks, African destinations have been impacted by the aftermath of the Ebola outbreak in a few West African countries and the slower growth of regional economies depending on the export of oil and other commodities," the tourism body said.

Tunisia's tourism industry, which had been recovering after the Arab Spring unrest, was badly shaken in March by an attack on the Bardo museum in Tunis, followed by one in June in the resort of Sousse, that killed a total of 59 tourists.

The UN World Tourism Organization predicts international tourism arrivals will increase by 3 .0-4.0 percent during all of 2015, after expanding by 4.7 percent last year.

Travel & Tourism

Travel Destinations

Source: Global tourist numbers up 4.0 percent in first half: UN

Morocco, Primary Destination of Private Equity Investment in North Africa

Rabat – Morocco has attracted the single greatest share of private equity activity in North Africa in 2007-2014, according to the African Private Equity and Venture Capital Association (AVCA).

Morocco, Egypt and Tunisia attracted almost 90% of all Private Equity deals in the region by volume and value, totaling US$5.3bn between 2007 and 2014.

North Africa's share of African PE activity accounted for 15% of African deal volume and value over the same period.

According to AVCA, Private Equity in North Africa has been relatively resilient despite recent political and economic events that have occurred in the region.

During the same period, there were 983 Private Equity transactions in Africa, at a total value of US$34.5 billion.

The highest value of deals was recorded in 2007, with US$8.3 million worth of transactions. The second highest year registered in 2014, with PE deals totaling US$8.1 million.

The African Private Equity and Venture Capital Association (AVCA) is the pan-African industry body which promotes and enables private investment in Africa.

© Morocco World News. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, rewritten or redistributed without permission

Join the Conversation. What do you think?

Source: Morocco, Primary Destination of Private Equity Investment in North Africa

African Travel, Inc. Celebrates 40th Anniversary with Brochure Launch

African Travel, Inc. Celebrates 40th Anniversary with Brochure Launch

DELRAY BEACH, FL, Sept. 8, 2015 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- African Travel, Inc. is proud to celebrate four decades of intimately connecting North American travelers with the exotic majesty of Africa's unknown. The company's legacy of excellence is evident from its continued industry recognition, including the #3 Top Safari Outfitter in Travel + Leisure's coveted 2015 World's Best Awards. African Travel also boasts impressive numbers of return customers and an innovative collection of customizable safaris that are updated each year with the release of its annual brochure.

"Africa is not one country and it is certainly not one story - the continent has something for everyone and at any price point," said Sherwin Banda, president of African Travel. "It is a unique destination, and my hope is that everybody gets to experience Africa at least once. We are committed to offering a range of safaris that enable guests to take the safari of their dreams; and once you are there, this life-changing experience will never, ever leave you."

African Travel's new brochure features a well-rounded collection of "Popular Journeys," which encompass past guests' favorite sojourns; "Extraordinary Experiences," which are ideal for those who prefer more remote safari experiences; and a variety of "Added+Adventures" that put the finishing touches on any dream vacation with highlights such as an island retreat in the Seychelles or an adventure into the misty land of Victoria Falls.

"Africa is an enticing destination, a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for some and a repeat trip for others," said Banda. "People today want to travel differently, and we excel at providing a range of itineraries to satisfy every guest."

The brochure also features four exciting 2016 "Safari Vacation Packages" designed to accommodate every budget and bucket list. Guests choose set departure dates and benefit from group travel savings while enjoying intimate journeys of two to 12 people and accommodations of the finest caliber. Itineraries range from seven to nine nights, and most can be enhanced with additional excursions and all can be extended for an independent stay. Prices for these itineraries start at $4,240 per person, and many packages include international airfare.

In an effort to prioritize the importance of conservation and sustainable tourism, African Travel offers all guests the opportunity to volunteer for long-lasting initiatives on every type of journey. African Travel also encourages the sustainable development of tourism by partnering with the TreadRight Foundation and supporting projects that benefit the environment, heritage and community of Africa. Other partners include the Amy Biehl Foundation, which contributes to community building programs in Cape Town, and WildAid, whose mission is to end the illegal wildlife trade by shutting down global consumption of wildlife products.

To request a copy of the 2016 brochure or download online, visit africantravelinc.com/utilities/order-brochure/.

For more information and to book the safari of your dreams, contact your favorite Travel Professional, call African Travel, Inc. at (800) 421-8907, or visit www.africantravelinc.com. CST 2071444-20

Don't forget to check out African Travel, Inc.'s Journal Page! Get travel tips, photos and testimonials, and stories from the bush. Subscribe to the RSS feed to get all of these things in one place!

Follow African Travel, Inc. on Twitter @WeKnowAfrica

About African Travel, Inc. - "We Know Africa"African Travel, Inc. is a 40-year-old safari operator, with operations in Africa and the USA, offering customized and locally-hosted safaris to Africa at all price points. The company's focus is solely on planning and operating safaris in Africa. We have dedicated, experienced teams in Africa, Safari Specialists in the USA, an extensive transportation fleet, numerous hotels, camps and lodges throughout The Travel Corporation's Africa-based associate companies.  Refer to www.AfricanTravelInc.com for a wide variety of ideas and safaris.

About USTOAAfrican Travel, Inc. shares the coverage available under the USTOA $1 Million Travelers Assistance Program with affiliates of TravCorp USA, Inc. In addition, TravCorp Financial Services Limited provides a guarantee of $20 Million.

About the TreadRight FoundationCreated as a joint initiative between The Travel Corporation's family of brands, the TreadRight Foundation is a not-for-pro fit working to ensure the environment and communities we visit remain vibrant for generations to come. To date, TreadRight has more than 35 sustainable tourism projects worldwide. The foundation's guiding principle is to encourage sustainable tourism development through conservation, leadership and support for communities.

TreadRight's past project partners include WWF, Conservation International and The National Trust in the UK. Current initiatives include sponsoring the National Geographic Society's inaugural "World Legacy Awards," helping to combat wildlife crime with WildAid, and empowering individuals with the Alliance for Artisan Enterprise.

 To learn more about our past and current work at TreadRight, please visit us at TreadRight.org.

CONTACT: Susan Chou Public Relations Coordinator Susan.Chou(at)TravCorpUSA.com Twitter: @Susan_TravCorp Arnelle Kendall Vice President of Public Relations Arnelle.Kendall(at)TravCorpUSA.com Twitter: @ArnelleKendall The Travel Corporation Public Relations Office 636 East Atlantic Avenue Suite 203 Delray Beach, FL 33483 561.330.0850
Source: African Travel, Inc. Celebrates 40th Anniversary with Brochure Launch

How exhibitions raise Nigeria’s profile as investment destination —Pearson

By Jonah NwokpokuRegional Director, West Africa, Afrocet Montgomery, George Pearson has said that trade exhibitions held in Nigeria provide a veritable platform to raise Nigeria's profile as an investment destination.

He stated this during a press conference at the opening of a three day Propak West Africa International Exhibition held in Lagos.

Regional Director, West Africa, Afrocet Montgomery, George Pearson

He said: "The exhibition provides huge foreign investment opportunities for Nigeria. Propak West Africa is the biggest international exhibition of its kind within the processing and packaging industry. We are bringing interests from thirty different countries bringing over 70 different exhibitors. What we want to do is to raise the profile of Nigerian industry in particular and hopefully we can bring in those countries in to focus on the Nigerian market."

According to Pearson, "This printing and packaging exhibition is even more important now that we are looking at where the oil prices are and the Federal Government and the states in Nigeria have to look at non-oil products. Even more so, if you look at Nigeria as an agricultural country, the whole agricultural, food processing and manufacturing industry elements in Nigeria are becoming crucial in terms of economy and in terms of growth and the population in terms of moving forward."

Also speaking, Managing Director of Angus Montgomery, Damion Angus, a partner on the exhibition, said: "Exhibition allows foreign companies to come in and it is a very cost effective way of getting a taste of what the market entails. And so in one place within one to three days, you can see over 2,500 people, whereas if they came on their own or on a mission, they would not be able to have that same intensity and walk away with a very good idea of what the industry entails and what opportunities exist. And we have international companies which come here and they find distributors, partners and this provides them a very good springboard to set up a business. So exhibitions globally are fantastic methods of putting together buyers and sellers and informing people of what is going on. And we very much hope that Propak will be the platform (for foreign investors to come in)."

The international exhibition which focused on the packaging, processing and printing industry drew participants from 15 countries including participants from Nigeria and China, India, Taiwan, France, United Kingdom, Germany etc, and over 70 industries as exhibitors.

Propak is a brand of shows. It was launched in South Africa, many years ago and has expanded between East and West Africa.Pearson said Propak is leveraging Nigeria as a commercial hub of West Africa and the most important commercial capital of West Africa to promote trade shows in other parts of West Africa with Lagos as a base.

Source: How exhibitions raise Nigeria's profile as investment destination —Pearson

New Paltz optometrist participates in ground-breaking program to improve vision care in South Africa

Doctor Scott Morrison. (photo by Lauren Thomas)

Durban, South Africa, is a city situated on the eastern seaboard of the country, known for its beautiful coastline and its subtropical climate. It has one of the busiest ports in Africa, it's a top surfing and diving destination and it was where Nelson Mandela chose to cast his first vote as a free man in the first Democratic General Election in 1994. Now Durban is the site for a new training program for optometrists that will significantly improve the quality of vision care for South Africans.

The course is offered by the SUNY College of Optometry. Dr. Scott Morrison, OD, who has maintained a private practice in New Paltz while also serving as an assistant clinical professor at the college for 30 years now, went to South Africa in June to participate in the ground-breaking medical education program, teaching alongside SUNY College of Optometry department chair Dr. Richard Madonna, MA, OD (who is also Morrison's former partner in private practice before he chose to teach full-time).

The course was developed to train optometrists in South Africa in therapeutic treatment for eye diseases that don't require surgery. While optometrists in the U.S. have been treating conjunctivitis, glaucoma, foreign bodies in the eye and abrasions since 1986, that hasn't been the case in South Africa, where optometrists have only been permitted to do basic eye exams for eyeglasses and contact lenses. With everything else falling under the purview of ophthalmology, that meant an imbalance in a system where, according to Dr. Morrison, too many people have been left visually impaired for long periods of time, with more than 50 million people served by only about 3,000 optometrists and 400 ophthalmologists.

In the U.S., a person in need of cataract surgery can be diagnosed and have the operation within a week. In South Africa, a person is put on a waiting list for surgery, and they can't even make it that far until their vision has deteriorated to at least 20/60, says Dr. Morrison. (And to put that in perspective, we can't drive here if our vision is worse than 20/40.) "And once on the list, it can be two to two-and-a-half years before they get to you, because there are only 400 MDs." Training optometrists in South Africa to treat simple eye diseases should free up the ophthalmologists — currently overloaded with patients suffering minor eye afflictions — to conduct more surgeries.

The training course was enacted because of the advocacy of optometrists in South Africa, led by Dr. Vanessa Moodley, affiliated with the University of KwaZulu-Natal (formerly the University of Durban Westville). "You have to give her the credit for this," says Dr. Morrison. "She fought really hard for this to happen. She took 'ophthalmology' on and said, 'We have to come together as two professions that have the same interests at heart. These patients need help and they're waiting years for treatment. We have to find a way to come together and come up with a plan.'"

It took years of negotiation and back-and-forth before there was some type of agreement between optometry and ophthalmology in South Africa — "ophthalmology was reluctant to give another profession the right to do the work they do," says Dr. Morrison — but the end result is a program in which South African optometrists can become certified to treat eye disease by going through a 72-hour course and doing 600 clinical hours in a hospital-type setting.

The SUNY College of Optometry course is divided into three parts. The introductory segment was conducted in Durban for the first time in April, followed in May by the second part of the course covering the anterior, or front of the eye. The posterior, or back of the eye, where diseases take place, was addressed in the third and final part of the course in June, taught by doctors Morrison and Madonna. Their section of the course involved six hours of instruction per day for four days, with the two professors "tag-teaming" the curriculum so that each doctor was responsible for 12 hours each.

The course was open to any licensed optometrist who could pay the fee to take the class and pass an exam beforehand. The criteria of 600 hours of clinical experience is a stringent one, says Dr. Morrison, difficult to achieve while also working full-time as an optometrist, but if the doctors enrolled in the course are able to come to New York for several weeks, the SUNY College of Optometry is welcoming them to fulfill any part of the requirements in the clinics here.

Doctors Morrison and Madonna may make a repeat visit to South Africa to teach the course again next year, with it anticipated that another 150 optometrists will want to take the training. "We taught five student doctors in our course to be mentors, so that they can take over and teach others to do this. But I don't know if they feel prepared to do that quite yet," says Dr. Morrison.

The long-term goal, he adds, is that "Once people there realize that optometrists can do more than just glasses and contacts and are able to bring disease treatment to the population, more people will sign up to go through school and become an OD."

Knowing what the situation in South Africa has been, "It makes you realize how fortunate we are in this country to have the eye care that we have," he says, "and be able to receive care so quickly. And there, they just haven't had that."

Source: New Paltz optometrist participates in ground-breaking program to improve vision care in South Africa