A first for Bill Harrop’s “Original” Balloon Safaris: Michael Maja, their first black commercial, hot air balloon pilot
Bill Harrop’s “Original” Balloon Safaris has been in operation for over 40 years, and they are elated to share the news of their first black commercial hot air balloon Pilot, Michael Maja, who has attained his commercial hot air balloon pilot license.
Michael Maja has achieved a great accomplishment in the world of hot air ballooning and with the guidance, assistance, and support of Bill Harrop’s “Original” Balloon Safaris team has achieved his dream of becoming a hot air balloon Pilot. Obtaining a commercial hot air balloon pilot licence is no easy feat, with a series of aviation examinations and over 100 hours of practice flights. Michael has undergone rigorous training and successfully achieved his 100-hour flight mark on Sunday, 20 August 2023, qualifying him as a commercial hot air balloon pilot.
Bill Harrop’s “Original” Balloon Safaris team is committed to providing opportunities within the aviation industry, specifically focused on hot air balloon specialization. Launching their hot air balloon flight school and developing young talent for the succession of hot air ballooning in South Africa, with great success. Bill Harrop’s “Original” Balloon Safaris CEO, Dale de Klerk, expressed his elation with the achievement stating, “We are so proud of Michael’s accomplishment, and we look forward to producing many more successful hot air balloon pilots with the support and resources of Bill Harrop’s ‘Original’ Balloon Safaris”. Chief Pilot and Director, Tracy Robb, also congratulated Michael on this momentous achievement:
“Michael has proven to be a skilled and conscientious Pilot, fulfilling his training requirements and I am happy to share the skies with him as a fellow aeronaut. Well done Michael on your achievement.” Michael is overjoyed, and shares this joyous occasion with his family, friends, and ballooning colleagues. He commented; “I still cannot believe it! I could not have done this without the support and dedication of the entire team at Bill Harrop’s ‘Original’ Balloon Safaris. Thank you for making this dream come true. I look forward to sharing the skies with my mentors and friends.” Bill Harrop’s “Original” Balloon Safaris has produced their first black commercial hot air balloon Pilot and is set to deliver many more through its dedication to the upliftment and continuous efforts in the training and development of young hot air balloon pilots.
Michael will be a beacon of hope to the youth who are seeking alternative avenues to the wonderful world of aviation in South Africa. About Micheal Maja Michael Maja is a young man filled with ambition, a big heart, and a passion for Hot Air Ballooning. He is setting the way for other aspirant youth in the exciting world of Hot Air Balloon flying.
For more information visit www.balloon.co.za, email nadia@balloon.co.za, call +27 (0)83 443 2662
Southern Sun expands SunPet offering with two additional pet-friendly hotels
Tuesday, 12 September 2023 – Southern Sun proudly announces two additional ‘SunPet’ friendly hotels, with the conversion of Southern Sun Katherine Street, Sandton and Southern Sun Bloemfontein, both of which have opened their doors to welcome pets.
Recognising the bond between hotel guests and their four-legged companions, Southern Sun Katherine Street takes the lead in offering pet-friendly accommodation in the heart of Sandton. General manager Bilal Essop and his dedicated team eagerly await the arrival of guests accompanied by their pets. “Understanding that pets are often cherished family members, we believe that they shouldn’t have to be separated while traveling,” says Essop. “We want our guests to enjoy their time in Sandton, whether they’re here for business or pleasure, and we hope that this new addition to our offerings will make their stay with us even more enjoyable.”
Joel Stols, Southern Sun Bloemfontein’s General manager added, “By extending our warm welcome to guests travelling with their pets, we’re ensuring that no one is left behind when it comes to creating lasting memories. Our new pet-friendly rooms represent another step in redefining the way we approach hospitality, and we can’t wait to see the joyful moments that unfold as our guests enjoy unforgettable stays together with their pets.”
To ensure the utmost comfort and convenience for both guests and their pets, carefully selected rooms within each hotel underwent a pet-friendly conversion, and now feature hygienic vinyl flooring and a comfortable Sealy Posturepedic pet bed, together with a range of convenient SunPet amenities to make pets comfortable during their stay. In addition to the comfortable accommodation, guests can also dine with their pets at the hotels, which offer a SunPet Gourmet Menu, serving a variety of nutritious and delicious individually packaged dishes made with real ingredients.
In addition to the rooms, amenities and conveniences being offered, the selection of the SunPet hotels themselves has also received careful consideration. Southern Sun’s general manager of corporate affairs, brands & marketing, Candy Tothill explains, “In addition to its garden rooms, we chose Southern Sun Bloemfontein so that guests en route to or from our existing SunPet hotel in Cape Town – SunSquare Cape Town Gardens – could also enjoy overnighting with their pets at another one of our trusted hotel brands during their journey. Southern Sun Katherine Street is set in beautiful gardens and neighbouring a pretty park, it could not be more perfectly suited to welcome SunPets, so we chose to also extend our signature hospitality to pets travelling in style in Sandton.”
For those seeking to enjoy the SunPet experience, pet-friendly rooms are available at an additional surcharge of R250 per room per night, with a one-time non-refundable payment of R500 per stay. As part of their warm welcome, SunPets receive a treat upon arrival. Along with pet bedding for the ultimate sleep experience, during their stay, pets also have access to a selection of bowls, mats, toys, and other treats and conveniences to ensure a memorable visit.
Southern Sun Katherine Street and Southern Sun Bloemfontein are proud to incorporate the joys of pet-friendly hospitality and invite guests to discover the comfort, warmth, and genuine care of a truly pet-friendly experience. For more information visit www.southernsun.com/sunpet
Call for applications World Travel Market (WTM) Africa 10 – 12 April 2024, Cape Town, South Africa
The Department of Tourism through the Market Access Support Programme (MASP) invites eligible tourism enterprises to apply and participate at the World Travel Market (WTM) Africa 2024 exhibition to be held in Cape Town, South Africa from 10 – 12 April 2024.
Learn more https://tinyurl.com/2pn5khc6
Minister de Lille hosts tourism stakeholder engagement in Overberg
Minister of Tourism, Patricia de Lille, hosted a tourism stakeholder session in the Overberg District Municipality in the Western Cape. In celebration of Tourism Month and ahead of the summer season, the Minister visited the region to report back on the state of tourism as well as to actively engage with tourism enterprises across the value chain.
This engagement gives impetus to the commitment by government to strengthen its partnerships by working with all spheres of government to enhance the capacity of the state. In her capacity as District Champion of the Overberg region, this alignment is critical at the coalface of service delivery.
For more information visit https://tinyurl.com/s9b69d22
German language training opportunity for Tourist Guides
The Department of Tourism hereby invites applications from registered tourist guides for the foreign language training programme that the Department will be funding. The main objective of the training is to capacitate existing tourist guides in the German language to enhance visitor experiences and to better serve the needs of the German market.
The Department will be sponsoring a pilot phase of German language training for registered tourist guides from across the country. The training will focus on Level one (A1-A2) German language training for registered tourist guides. On completion of the pilot phase and based on the performance of candidates, a further selection process will take place and candidates may be considered for admission into the next phase of the training programme, which includes cultural and social immersion.
CRITERIA FOR ADMISSION AND CONDITIONS OF ENROLMENT
Registered tourist guides that are interested in participating in this programme will be required to submit a written motivation (not exceeding 1 page) giving reasons why they should be selected to undergo training in German. Please ensure that your full name and surname along with a copy of your valid tourist guide registration is also included.
APPLICATION AND SELECTION PROCESS
Applicants should have 2-3 years’ guiding experience. Experience with the German market will be an added advantage. Shortlisted candidates may be required to undergo an interview process. • Once selected, guides will be required to undergo an extensive and continuous training programme for an estimated duration of one (1) month in Gauteng.
Full-time employed guides who are selected to undergo training will be required to submit a letter signed by the employer (on a letterhead) giving permission to attend and participate in the language programme. Selected candidates will be subjected to vetting processes and signing of a learner contract as a commitment to the training programme.
SUBMISSION OF APPLICATIONS AND CLOSING DATE
The deadline for submissions is 30 September 2023 no later than 16:00. All submissions must be sent via email to TGtraining@tourism.gov.za. Details regarding logistical arrangements will be communicated to all successful candidates.
CSIR International Convention Centre takes aspiring students under its wing.
The CSIR International Convention Centre (CSIR ICC) recently hosted visiting students who are studying Hospitality Management at the Capital Hotel School.
Capacity development has continuously been a priority for the CSIR ICC. Its visiting student programme exposes the students to a real-life environment that links the value generated from day-to-day work. The learning experience challenges the students to move beyond their established classroom routines into a professional working zone.
“I gained knowledge and learned procedures that will guide me through my career and help create a good and healthy working environment for myself and others,” shared Samantha Horne, one of the visiting students.
The CSIR ICC urges other hospitality industry establishments to have such community involvement programmes to ensure that adequately skilled individuals are available for employment.
TTA Members Meeting, September 2023 – Information sharing, networking and fun at Freedom Park!
Tshwane Tourism Association kicked off Tourism Month 2023 with a gathering of members at Freedom Park SA on September 7th, 2023.
TTA members and tourism stakeholders attended the meeting. Supplier members were offered a tabletop exhibition where they could network with other TTA members and promote their products and services.
Alderman Hannes Coetzee, MMC for Economic Development and Spatial Planning, City of Tshwane, shared his inspirational vision and encouraged each member present to take the lead in fostering positivity, collaboration and teamwork.
Sales Head – FNB Commercial, Hannes Mels, spoke on the role that financial institutions may play in supporting tourism firms in finding cost-effective, reliable, and energy-efficient solutions to energy shortages.
Ingrid Louw from The Restaurant Collective(TRC) encouraged the restaurant and hospitality industry to make its voice hear!. It is only through being part of a dedicated and credible organization that the restaurant and hospitality industry can have broad representation for successful engagements between stakeholders in government and industry in order to address issues that cause delays as well as damage the sustainability and growth of large and individual businesses.
The TTA Chairperson, Nico Rowan, introduced and welcomed the newly elected TTA board and discussed the association’s projects and future plans.
TTA is grateful to Freedom Park for hosting the event, preparing delicious food and giving members a tour of their well-maintained facilities. For further information on Freedom Park, please contact info@freedompark.co.za, call 012 336 4020, or go to freedompark.co.za.
The memories were captured by VPiXSA, a TTA supplier member which offers world class 360° professional virtual tour services.
Save the date! TTA Tourism Showcase. 23 January 2024
The Tshwane Tourism Association (TTA) is pleased to advise that the 5th Annual Tshwane Tourism Showcase is planned to take place on Thursday 23 January 2024.
The TTA Showcase is a business-to-business showcase of all that Tshwane has to offer in terms of tourism and the audience invited to view the exhibitions is anyone in the business of selling Tshwane as a destination (international, regional and local inbound tour operators, destination marketing companies, travel agencies, embassies, etc.) as well as key markets such as government procurement departments etc. We will once again also have a supplier exhibition area where members can interact with relevant suppliers.
The Showcase provides excellent opportunities for TTA members to promote their tourism and related products and services as well as to network with other TTA members and tourism stakeholders in Gauteng and beyond.
As one of the benefits of TTA membership, tabletop exhibitions are offered at the Tshwane Tourism Showcase 2024 at no cost. All members whose 2023/24 membership fees are paid up are eligible to participate.
Save the date and look out for more information and a chance to register and take advantage of this opportunity.
Please save the date: Thursday 23 January 2024
Experience the heart of Art in Tshwane: Javett-UP
If you are a globetrotter searching for art experiences in Tshwane, here’s a plug: the magnificent Javett Art Centre at the University of Pretoria (Javett-UP) is a must visit. The four-year-old museum has fast set itself as an artistic hotspot, where domestic and international travelers alike, flock in numbers for a transdisciplinary art experience in The Capital. The centre is home to the iconic National Treasures of the Mapungubwe Gold Collection and the Anglo Ashanti Barbier-Mueller Gold Collection. Here are must-see exhibitions that are currently on display at the Javett-UP.
Oscar Murillo: Frequencies
A select few schools around Tshwane had the privilege to partake in this internationally renowned exhibition. As part of the Frequencies project, initiated by the Colombian artist Oscar Murillo in 2013, blank canvases are fixed to classroom desks of pupils aged ten to-sixteen to freely draw, mark, and write-on for over a period of six months, alongside their daily activities. The resulting canvases, with their accumulation of both conscious and unconscious markings, form a monumental collection of over 60,000 examples, bearing the marks of hundreds of thousands of individual students, and allows an insight into the collective unconscious of youth in a process of social becoming. On display at the Javett-Up, visitors can experience over 10,000 canvases collected from over 450 schools worldwide.
Notions of Home, Identity and Belonging
The month of July is the last chance to visit this thought-provoking exhibition which has been showing on Javett-UP’s colossal Ground Floor gallery for the past three months. It reflects on the work of five photographers who have considered aspects of human existence in the context of xenophobia and have used the photographic medium in diverse ways. Each has responded to the subject from a unique perspective and have assembled works to create an exhibition that expresses the layered complexity of the topic from both local and migrant perspectives. This photography exhibition is supported by the European Union, curated by Through The Lens Collective and presented by the Javett Art Centre at the University of Pretoria.
Artology: Select works from the University of Pretoria Museums
UP Museums has an extensive and iconic collection of the 20th and 21st century South African artworks collected by the University of Pretoria over 100 years. Featuring more than fifty artworks from the collection, this exhibition reflects on the institution’s century-long history of collecting, which first began in 1922. Artology explores the UP’s permanent collections, and how this history of collecting speaks to the present. The term Artology,’ was innovatively conceptualised by the UP Museums and is defined as ‘The study of art or an object as art.’ The installation is showcasing on Javett-UP’s breathtaking Bridge Gallery connecting the centre with UP’s Hatfield campus over Lynwood Road.
One Is But A Shadow Of The Other
This project takes as its starting point Deborah Bell’s 1991 etching titled One is But the Shadow of the Other. Drawing from the South32 collection, the project is interested in unfolding the continuous relationships of people with space and the tensions that can be created when unlike\like things are placed adjacent to each other. The project is a result of the collaboration of Javett-UP interns Tayla Hollamby, Thulani Mlangeni and Tshimollo Mnisi who were tasked with researching the historic South32 collection by tracing the work’s political dynamics in relation to current day-to-day experiences of a younger generation.
Admission to Javett-UP is priced from R25 for school tours and R85 for adults. Entry for students with a valid student card is free. Tickets can be purchased at the Centre (cash or card) or by email through bookings@javettup.com (EFT payment). Please visit the website www.javettup.com for more information.
Book your Year-End Function at Manhattan Hotel
Go and experience Manhattan’s famous Lunch Buffet with their mouth-watering dishes @ R245.00 per person, served from 13:30, including bottomless tea, coffee, espresso, americano, cappuccino, cafe latte, mochaccino and hot chocolate.
For more information visit manhattanhotel.co.za , Email marketing@manhattanhotel.co.za or call 012 392 0000..
Spring Getaway Promotion at Kievits Kroon Gauteng Wine Estate
Spring is the perfect time to make new memories.
Book your romantic Spring getaway for only R 1 980 per couple sharing.
Includes: 1 night accommodation with breakfast and in-room strawberries & cream platter per couple sharing.
Limited rooms available for this offer
Bookings/Enquiries: info@kievitskroon.co.za / 012 819 8600
Ts&Cs Apply | E&OE | Valid until 31 October 2023
Discount for groups at Adventure Zone Cullinan
Follow the link HERE and get your discount for your next group booking at Adventure Zone.
Bookings/Enquiries: info@adventurezone.co.za/ 012 734 0507
Corporate Festive Season Lunch Buffet at Kievits Kroon
Show your colleagues and clients how much you appreciate them with an opulent festive season buffet. Indulge in a variety of delicious dishes, from traditional Christmas fare to more modern options.
There will be something for everyone to enjoy!
ONLY R590 PER PERSON
Guests are treated with a festive season welcome drink, Christmas crackers, hats, and party poppers.
Valid from Monday, 6th November 2023 to Friday 15th December 2023
Bookings/Enquiries: info@kievitskroon.co.za
Kievits Kroon, Heritage Day Braai Lunch
HERITAGE DAY BRAAI
Join Kievits Kroon for an all-you-can-eat Heritage Day Braai on Sunday, September 24th from 12pm to 4pm!
This is a day to celebrate our South African heritage, our diversity, and our shared future. Come together as one nation and enjoy a delicious feast of our favorite foods.
they’ll be prizes for the best traditionally dressed person, so come dressed to impress! There will also be a jumping castle for the kids, so everyone can have a fun and relaxing afternoon.
One of the highlights of the menu is our “Build Your Own Bunny Chow” station. Choose between a flavourful beef curry or a hearty broad bean curry, and enjoy it with all the fixings, such as sambals, carrot salad, and atchar.
This is a great opportunity to build relationships and create a sense of community.
Go celebrate being South African with Kievits Kroon!
For more information visit www.kievitskroon.co.za
Fabulous Functions at The Capital Distillery
The end of the year is getting closer, so it’s time to start planning your year-end function or team building event.
They have a beautiful tasting room that can seat up to 30 people for a spectacular event at their distillery.
Or you can go out to any venue and entertain your guests with a gin tasting, pairing or even a gin blend. Contact The Capital Distillery with your unique requirements.
Email: thecapitalgin@gmail.com
Phone/WhatsApp: 082 449 6153
They look forward to hosting you at the home of boutique spirits.
Family Fun Awaits!
ESCAPE TO UNWIND, RECONNECT & #GETHOOKED ON AWESOME ADVENTURES!
TOTAL COST: R 640 FOR UP TO 4 PARTICIPANTS
*Min: 1 Adult & 1 Child (under 18 yrs.)
*Any course selection/s & includes climbing gloves
Fit for all family structures:
– 1 Adult & 3 Children
– 2 Adults & 2 Children
– 2 Adults & 1 Child
*LARGER FAMILY? No worries. The Family Package can still be purchased & additional participants pay normal p/p course rates.
#Gethooked
Valid at all our 11 Acrobranch locations
Promo Code: AcroFamPass
086 999 0369
11 Parks across SA:
Gauteng: Garsfontein, Pretoria North, Centurion, Melrose, Huddle & Casalinga
Western Cape: Constantia, Stellenbosch & Garden Route
Kwazulu-Natal: Pietermaritzburg & Hillcrest
Unlock your team’s potential with CHS’s team building packages.
Capital Hotel believes that their Culinary Teambuilding Packages offer an engaging and immersive experience that will leave a lasting impact on your team members. By combining the joys of cooking, teamwork, and education, we aim to create an unforgettable event that strengthens the bonds within your team.
Option 1: “Canvas and Crusts: Pizza, Paint, and Participate”
10-30 pax
Cost: From R580.00 per person
Description:
This teambuilding event combines the joy of culinary creation and artistic expression. Teams will have the opportunity to build their own pizzas using a variety of fresh ingredients and then unleash their creativity during an art class. The art class will be guided by a professional instructor who will provide step-by-step instructions, ensuring that everyone can participate and have fun. This option encourages teamwork, communication, and problem-solving skills.
Benefits:
- Promotes collaboration: Working together to create delicious pizzas and produce artwork will foster teamwork and collaboration among team members.
- Enhances creativity: The art class component allows team members to explore their creativity and think outside the box.
- Fun and interactive: Building and eating pizzas, combined with an art class, guarantees an enjoyable and interactive experience for all participants.
- Suitable for all skill levels: Whether someone is a novice in the kitchen or a seasoned artist, this option accommodates all skill levels.
Option 2: “Fire & Flavors: Boerie Burger Battle”
10-20 pax
Cost: From R475.00 per person
Description:
This teambuilding option embraces the spirit of friendly competition. Teams will compete to present the best boerie burger, with all items cooked on fire. This option not only tests culinary skills but also encourages teamwork, time management, and innovation. Teams will be provided with ingredients, equipment, and guidance from expert chefs throughout the challenge.
Benefits:
- Encourages teamwork: Team members will have to collaborate effectively to create a winning boerie burger, fostering cooperation and communication.
- Builds problem-solving skills: Working within a time limit and using limited resources will require teams to think creatively and find innovative solutions.
- Promotes leadership: Each team will need to designate roles and assign responsibilities, allowing individuals to showcase their leadership abilities.
- Engaging and thrilling: The competitive nature of this challenge adds an element of excitement and fun to the teambuilding experience.
Option 3: “Mystery & Mastery: Mystery Box Cooking Challenge”
8-16 pax
Cost: From R495.00 per person
Description:
This option draws inspiration from popular cooking shows, where teams compete in a mystery box master chef challenge. Teams will receive a box containing a variety of mystery ingredients and will have a limited time to prepare a delicious dish using only those ingredients. This option promotes creativity, adaptability, and effective communication.
Benefits:
- Sparks creativity: The mystery box format forces teams to think creatively and come up with innovative dishes using the given ingredients.
- Enhances communication: Effective communication within the team is crucial to successfully utilise the mystery ingredients and collaborate on the cooking process.
- Improves time management: The time constraint adds an element of pressure, requiring teams to manage their time efficiently and work together to complete the challenge.
- Builds resilience: Adapting to unexpected ingredients and finding solutions under pressure helps develop resilience and problem-solving skills.
At CHS, they understand that every team has unique requirements and preferences. CHS is more than happy to customise the Culinary Teambuilding Package to align with your specific goals, dietary restrictions, or any other special considerations you may have. Their dedicated team will work closely with you to tailor the package to your needs, ensuring a truly personalised and memorable event.
For more information contact Michelle Cloete today at sales@capitalhotelschool.co.za or visit their website https://capitalhotelschool.co.za/contact-us/
VPiXSA – Exclusive to TTA members only!
VPiXSA delivers the Best Quality Virtual Tours, VR and 360º Content, read more…
For enquiries email jacques@vpix360.com, or call 083 626 0539
Let’s make HAPPINESS our heritage
Spring is here, and Centurion Mall is where the celebration unfolds!
Dive into our nation’s rich heritage this September, especially on Heritage Day, 24th!
Explore the Centurion se eie Boeremark treasures, indulge in family fun, and join our Selfie Challenge using #CelebratingDiversity #ShareYourSmile #WinYourSmile for a chance at dazzling prizes.
And don’t forget, show your Springboks spirit with vibrant green and gold on #BokFriday!
Save the date and make HAPPINESS our shared legacy at #theheartofcenturion.
For more information go to Facebook.com
Recommended reading
Minister Patricia de Lille on new tourism safety measures
The Planner Guru, 30 Aug 2023
‘Unite together to market Destination SA.’
Tourism Update, 14 Sep 2023
Sports tourism: A field of dreams and opportunities
Tourism Update, 14 Aug 2023
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