JUNE/JULY 2001

The purpose of this news letter is to share knowledge on tourism in South Africa, published by Cybertonature Travel Services, an independent small business, situated in the tranquil suburb of Wonderboom, Pretoria, South Africa, as well as in and cyberspace. This newsletter focus on knowledge management in the tourism industry, some short destination reports, and some security related news.

THE NEED FOR KNOWLEDGE SHARING IN THE TOURISM INDUSTRY

We attended a few recent events and came to the conclusion there is a dire need for knowledge sharing in the tourism industry. Among these events were initial meetings to launch a marketing for "The World Summit on Sustainable Development 2002" to take place in Johannesburg some time next year. On several occasions the need for a central data-base, with complete information, has been expressed by the industry. However, once again a mistake has been made by following the technological approach to the management of information for the Earth Summit. According to a report to the United Nations by the Minister of Environmental Affairs and Tourism in South Africa, a "nerve centre" will be established, containing "the most sophisticated technologies". When will managers learn that content is not about technology, but about quality information contained in knowledge-bases and in the minds of people. Technology may be used to create and access knowledge-bases, but knowledge in the minds of people can only be accessed by continuous interaction among individuals.

This is also true for the tourism industry. In South Africa the industry is still characterized by geographical and sector fragmentation, allowing only for cooperation where a slice of the profit is at stake. Otherwise, the guarding of knowledge and over sensitivity for competition prevent role-players from sharing in a wealth of knowledge. More about knowledge management atCybertonature

VISIT REPORTS

We recently visited the province of Kwazulu-Natal in South Africa. A favorable holiday spot for inland visitors because of its attractive coastline, KZN provides a variety of destinations to all. We once again enjoyed the out-of-season atmosphere of the Durban beachfront and Waterfront, watching the ships entering the harbor from a distance of fifty meters while enjoying a bear and the best seafood! For a view of Durban from the Bluff and Durban Beach

On the way back from KZN to Gauteng we took a short stop break at Nottingham Road in the Natal Midlands. Yes, it has the same atmosphere as the English countryside although the ever presence of the clear and sunny African-skies could never be concealed by the coziness of the English-style local hotel (with a real English Pub!). High quality beer is brewed on the premises and cheese manufactured. A good spot to visit or stay on your way to the Natal Drakensberg, the Anglo-Boer War Battle Fields, the Hibiscus Coast or Dolphin Coast. If you like to visit KZN let us know about your requirements

We visited Swaziland to attend a Rotary International District Conference. Expecting another good experience of African hospitality, we were disappointed in the artificial atmosphere of the Royal Swazi Sun. The excessive prices for food and drink ("to keep the locals away") as one of the managers suggested, contributed to a classical "tourist-trap" impression. If you like to visit the real Swaziland to enjoy a cultural experience of a lifetime, at view your options.

Talking about conference centers. Did you know that Gauteng is a leading conference and convention destination? South Africa hosted more than 1000 conferencing events in 1999, with more than half in Gauteng, which is recognised by business leaders around the world as the place in which to do business in Africa. In June we attended an online conference at Caesars Gauteng. We were impressed by their convention facilities, which is the best we ever seen. Modern facilities, combined with the best food and entertainment, persuaded us that business activities should rather take place in a professional business environment, and cultural experiences should be enjoyed outside the city. A business visit to Gauteng should be rounded off with a visit to Swaziland to make it perfect.

SECURITY AND HEALTH REPORT

Cholera in KZN has been brought under control and the incidence rate of the disease is the lowest since its onset in Aug 2000. With the normal precautions in mind, a visit to the province is now safe.

We do not want to join the band of alarmists and analysts who always see life through a western perspective, but purely from a practical point of view I would stay out of Zimbabwe: Fuel shortages and a collapsing health system do make it a risky destination. Sad to say, Zimbabwe is not the place to be in the near future. However, if you are looking for a good deal visit Our Zimbabwe Page.

We are glad to report that destinations in other countries are still relatively safe to visit. Normal safety precautions should however always be kept in mind. For some advice visit< ahref="http://www.cybertonature.co.za/safety.html">our security tips page

Enjoyed this newsletter? Please send an e-mail to the author with your comments or to subscribe to this newsletter. About the Author: Dries Velthuizen is the General Manager of Cybertonature Travel Services, a knowledge manager and experienced traveller. For access to more travel knowledge, visitour home page

MARCH/APRIL 2001

CENTRAL MOZAMBIQUE STILL UNDER WATER

A river in central Mozambique has overflowed its banks for the third time in a month, flooding a key supply route from Zimbabwe to central Mozambique. The waters of the Pungwe River submerged a stretch of the road between the towns of Mutua and Tica, about 60km west of Beira, capital of the central Sofala province. Over the past three months, flooding in Mozambique has killed more than 70 people, and almost 400 000 others have lost homes, crops or livelihood. The southern African country is still recovering from last year's devastating floods that killed 700 and left many homeless. However, southern Mozambique is fully accessible for visitors.

ZIMBABWE: A SPOILED PARADISE?

According to the BBC-online the sun sets on tourism in Zimbabwe because of the invasion of white-owned farms and violence that ensued during the elections in 2000. Apparently fuel and foreign currency shortages have further undermined the sector. According to the report visits to Zimbabwe dropped with more than 25% from 1999 to 2000, and by December 2000 less than 20% of rooms in Zimbabwe were occupied. Is the situation really that bad, or is this just another piece of West European Africa bashing? Recent visitors to and observers of Zimbabwe are invited to paste their opinions and view the opinion of others on the SA Travel Forum

For those who wish to experience the solar eclipse on 21 June, and who feels uncomfortable going to Zimbabwe can do so from the Zambian side of the Zambezi River. Some good specials are now available for the event. If you are satisfied that the situation in Zimbabwe is still to your liking, some very inexpensive options are now available to view the event from the Zimbabwean side.

SOUTH AFRICA : NEWS FROM A POTENTIAL PARADISE

According to Tanya Abrahamse, the new Chief Executive of the Tourism Business Council of South Africa a need exist to extend the benefits of tourism in South Africa to South African and visitors from other parts of Africa. South Africans should be encouraged to travel and see their own country. According to Ms Abrahamse there is little understanding of the needs of local tourists and travellers from China, the Middle East, India and other Asian countries. The African and Asian tourist industries are invited to visit and view the possibilities of Africa, and to paste your views on the South Africa Travel Forum

Recently we hosted two citizens from the USA. The retired couple were on a Rotary International Exchange visit to South Africa. They have seen the world and could make good comparison with other destinations in the world. According to their perspective South Africa is a flourishing country with the average person maintaining a relevant good quality of life. We came to the conclusion that, if you do not follow all the politically inspired negative reporting in the media and make your own observations, there are so many good and positive things regarding South Africa

WATERFRONTS

During March I travelled south from Gauteng visiting Bloemfontein, Port Elizabeth and Cape Town. To once again experience the contrasts of our lovely country, we travelled by car, taking our time visiting friends and places. Difficult as it is to determine the most impressive event or place, I decided to compare the various "Water Fronts" ( a concept where shops and restaurants are arranged on the edge of a stretch of water). For this purpose I selected the Bloemfontein Waterfront, Port Elizabeth Waterfront and the Victoria and Albert (V&A) Waterfront in Cape Town.

It was good to experience the Bloemfontein waterfront first. Comparing it with the Randburg waterfront and the now bankrupt Zambezi waterfront in Pretoria, I was convinced that the idea of artificial "waterfronts" is an indication of limited creativity embedded in some business people. In Bloemfontein a cluster of conventional enterprises, surrounding a stinking patch of water full of dying barbers (catfish) was really a disappointment. The good service at one of the restaurants could not make up for the constant sound of catfish gasping for air, trying to survive in the polluted water. Sorry, Bloemfontein, your effort to jump on the waterfront bandwagon does not do your otherwise attractive city any credit.

Maybe this is why Port Elizabeth has been so refreshing. Visiting this capital of the Eastern-Cape one is immediately struck by the attractiveness of the Port Elizabeth beach front. The Port Elizabeth Waterfront has been laid out just over the street from the main beach. What made it different from the other Waterfronts are the tastefulness and cleanliness. Presenting the visitor with splendor of interesting and creative little shops overlooking a well-maintained water area. This is a place worth visiting as an introduction or conclusion of a visit to the Garden Route

After visiting all these Waterfronts one realises that no artificial facility can outdo the natural beauty of a Knysna Lake or a view of the ocean from the Tsitsikamma Nature Reserve. Although the V&A Waterfront in Cape Town can be regarded as a roaring success from a commercial point of view, to the South African it is just another expensive shopping mall and drinking spot for students. To really enjoy the sunshine of South Africa a visitor to the country should visit the natural beauty of beaches meeting bush, with maybe only a quick shopping spree at a good Waterfront like the one in Port Elizabeth.

RIVERS

Two major river systems in Mpumalanga were given a "good" bill of health on Tuesday, while that of a third was diagnosed as "fair to poor". The findings were published in a State of Rivers Report released by the Department of Water Affairs in Pretoria. This study of the Crocodile, Sabie-Sand and Olifants river systems is the first of a series in terms of the department's river health programme launched in 1994. Experts conducted surveys of the three systems between 1996 and 1999 to collect a substantial body of data on the ecological health of these rivers. The rivers were classified on a scale of river health, ranging from the positive extreme of "natural" to "unacceptable". The Olifants river system fared worst.

PLACES TO STAY

I had the privilege the other day to spend some time atThabela Afrika guesthouse in Akasia, Pretoria. Relaxing in the modern lounge on a rainy summer afternoon I realised that the owner/manager succeeded very well in matching attractiveness and cosiness. The rooms are decorated in an Africa motive, but not in an artificial way as is the case sometimes with commercial establishments. A best view of the Northern Province and the Magaliesberge completes a very special place to stay.

I see that Travel the Planet also added some new accommodation venues to their site. What I enjoy about this site is that the participating accommodation establishments are clearly selected. The site is not a free-for-all database forcing the visitor to the site to search and surf forever. I decided to suggest our own establishment, Cybertonature Cottage, for the site. It was accepted and you can now not only book directly with us, but also compare it with other similar establishments by visiting Travel the Planet.

TRAVEL AND THE INTERNET

South Africa now has its own Lastminute site, where you can make your reservation s at a very short notice. Furthermore has www.travel.co.za been created and it appears to be very professional. Both these sites have been added to our community page together with links to a selection of the best in the travel business in South Africa. If you bookmark this page you have everything on South Africa.

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2001

HEALTH RISKS TO TOURISTS

Incidents of cholera in South Africa, Swaziland, Tanzania, Mozambique, Malawi, Zambia and Zimbabwe are on the increase. The causes of the problem are the low standards of sanitation maintained by rural communities. Counter measures have already be instituted in South Africa, and all people have been warned not to drink water from rivers or dams. The problem areas are isolated and the mortality rate unacceptable but low. In South African cities tap water is still perfectly safe, but bottled water is recommended in other countries.

FLOODS IN MOZAMBIQUE

On 24 January 2001 floods started in the Zambezia province of Mozambique. The floods affected approximately 24 000 people and 200 homes will be destroyed. Road links between the Sofala province and Quelimane were severed, and the roads from the Inhambane province in the south badly effected. Travel by road through this area would be impossible for some time. Concerns are that emergency repair, initiated after last years floods, would not hold if water-tables rise. However, southern Mozambique is still a paradise to visit and fully accessible by boat, aircraft or road.

ZIMBABWE

The situation in Zimbabwe is still tense with the government following an aggressive stance to all whom they perceive as opponents. This not only includes actions at legitimate opposition parties, but also manifests in harassment of the independent judiciary and rejection of the rule of law and state initiated terrorism. The IMF and world bank have frozen aid to Zimbabwe and an economic crisis persists. It is expected that the Zimbabwean government will come under more pressure from the international community, resulting in further economic instability with frequent clashes between supporters of internationally backed political opposition and Mugabe supporters.

THE STATE OF TOURISM IN SOUTH AFRICA

All the woes of Africa had a negative influence on visitors to Africa. The perception in the USA and Europe that everywhere in Africa is the same, resulted in a drop of approximately ten percent passengers passing through the major airports in January 2001, comparing to the same period in 2000. Analysts believe that the situation in Zimbabwe, the health situation and crime are the major causes of pressure on the tourism industry.

WILDLIFE SYMPOSIUM IN GAUTENG

The 5th International Wildlife Ranching Symposium and CIC Tropical Game Commission Conference will take place from 19 to 24 March 2001, in Pretoria, Gauteng, South Africa. The CIC Conference will examine developing wildlife utilisation in Africa's rural areas. The emphasis will be on sustainable utilisation and bio-diversity conservation. The following themes will be examined: Economics of Wildlife Utilisation, Collaborative Management of Natural Resources and Marketing and Funding Mechanisms for Rural Ventures, various aspects of Ecological Management, veterinary considerations, hunting and ethics and eco-tourism.

The Symposium on Wildlife Ranching will provide opportunities for examining the theory and practice of game ranching on a continent where this is a major and growing sector of both First and Third World economies and will draw on world-wide experience in the management of biotical diverse ecosystems. A Wildexpo will be held at the same venue from Wednesday, 21 March, to Saturday, 24 March. As the host country, South Africa offers delegates a great variety of wildlife experiences through visits to ranches and parks that are readily and safely accessible.

ECO-SAFARIS TO KENIA

Travelling from Amboseli in southern Kenya to the Laikipia northern region and finishing in the famous Masaai Mara, this eco-safari provides an opportunity to explore a diversity of Kenyan ecosystems, deserts, plains and grasslands, with the most knowledgeable guides from the local communities.

Each facility in the eco-safari is unique, offering a variety of atmospheres and styles, from permanent, tented camps to private homes hosted by owners who have lived in Kenya for generations. Freshly prepared meals energize the traveller for the next game walk or game drive, while the friendly and knowledgeable staff educate their guests about the local customs, wildlife and peoples during the various activities.

Eco-resorts created this eco-safari specifically to help the local communities use wildlife as their natural resource. In each of the itinerary's regions, wildlife is threatened from exploding human populations and economic growth, causing human/wildlife conflicts. In order to resolve some of these conflicts, eco-tourism is a viable alternative to cattle ranching or farming. By providing a direct benefit to communities for tending to wildlife, the properties in this eco-safari help resolve and alleviate these conflicts. In addition, Eco-resorts donates a percentage of their proceeds to local schools, orphanages and libraries. A true eco-safari is a gain for everyone!

INTERNET TRAVEL

The online travel industry is likely to be worth USD12.4 billion this year, and is predicted to reach an estimated value of USD25.2 billion by 2003. This level of growth will place it ahead of other e-retail industries like computer hardware and software.

Given that the online travel industry is information intensive, people can easily conduct research on fares, timetables, tour offers, hotel availability and destination holidays over the Web. Analysts describe booking and paying for tickets as relatively simple at present, but said there is room for improvement.

Online travel sales are not expected to overtake offline revenues just yet. In the US, the consumer travel industry is worth USD221 billion, while online sales are worth USD12.4 billion—only 5.6 percent of the total travel market.

According to the eMarketer report, middlemen such as Travelocity.com are also having a significant effect on the online travel industry, while smaller e-travel sites are expected to strengthen partnerships in the future.

DECEMBER 2000

Cybertonature Newsletter is a monthly summary of the most important events related to travel and tourism in southern Africa. This month the general situation in Africa, factors influencing the growth of tourism in the region, and an opportunity to come and see for yourself, will be offered.

GENERAL SITUATION IN AFRICA

The following are main aspects to noted by the travel industry:

The first land mines in many years were detonated in Namibia along the north-eastern border with Angola. A Namibian Defence Force base have been attacked by probably the Angolan rebel movement, UNITA. The Caprivi and Kavango is still no-go destinations for the tourist.

Tanzanian election on the mainland went well but results on Zanzibar are under dispute. The possibility of isolated incidents of violence must be taken in consideration by the traveller.

In Mozambique tension between the ruling party, FRELIMO, and the opposition party, RENAMO is increasing. Incidents of political violence already took place in the central provinces of Mozambique. The situation must be monitored very closely and an update in the security situation must be obtained before travelling.

In Zimbabwe isolated incidents of political violence still takes place and political tension, in especially Harare, will probably continue. It is however unlikely that major tourism destinations like Victoria Falls will be effected.

Swaziland faces political and economic crisis as the unions, with strong support from South Africa's trade unions, push for reforms in the work place. Apart from an unsuccessful border blockade the events are not seen as a threat to tourism.

The foot-and-mouth disease amongst cattle in the Kwa-Zulu Natal province of South Africa will have little effect on travellers. Cooperate with the necessary road blocks and inspections on entering and leaving the quarantine areas and there should be no reason not to travel freely around KZN. Just do not carry any livestock (pets may go as long as they do not have any cloven hoofs!) and do not buy boned meat from within the zone to take home.

THE EFFECT OF INSTABILITY ON TOURISM

According to the South African Tourism Board (SATOUR) over the next eighteen months approximately ZAR400 million will be spent on marketing South African tourism. During 1999 the industry grew with four per cent. It is the same growth experienced by Britain and Germany (five per cent, but way below France (15,7 per cent) and India (20,6 per cent).

Major factors effecting the growth of tourism is the perceived crime situation in South Africa. Foreign offices warn their citizens to stay away from Africa, presenting worst case scenarios. This is understandable, because a human life is obviously more important than the need for growth in an industry that has the potential to feed thousands of poor and previously disadvantaged people. The blame should rest with the cause of criminality. During a recent conference on Crime and Policing in Transitions presented by the South African Institute for International Affairs (SAIIA) the causes have been identified as the breakdown of community and related principles of social organization. These principles include the reduced risk for punishment, as well as the increase in opportunities, targets and motivation for the criminal. To solve this problem is the responsibility of the society as a whole.

Seen against the background of political turmoil in the sub region, it is easy to perceive a bleak picture. However, as serious travellers we should not allow a few criminals to deny us the life enriching experience of a visit to Africa. To see the more positive side of South Africa visit the Cybertonature home page

DESTINATIONS

This month we can offer you the best deal for Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe. The package rate of R 1935,00 per adult sharing is inclusive of the following as indicated below;

Return flights in selected classes on Air Zimbabwe

South African airport tax

Return airport transfers

Two nights accommodation at Sprayview Hotel

Breakfast daily

A package rate of R 2795,00 per adult sharing is inclusive of the following as indicated below;

Return flights in selected classes on Air Zimbabwe

South African airport tax

Return airport transfers

Two nights accommodation at A'Zambezi River Lodge

Breakfast daily

The above rates are applicable to regional and international clients. Standard booking terms and conditions apply.

ONLINE TRAVEL

During the twenty first World Trade Market in London there was much talk of electronic travel, and plenty of companies displaying technology. However, most people still advertised their products through expensive brochures. One has to ask for CD-ROM information, and web site information could hardly be found . Visitors market still had to rely on paper to access information. Probably the tourism industry not yet grasp the power of electronic advertising if integrated with the more traditional methods.

O yes, South Africa's stand at the fair were constantly busy, possibly a good sign for the tourism industry next year.

CONCLUSION

From a security perspective southern Africa still holds some risks for the tourist. A healthy growth in the South African industry and continued international interest in visiting the sub region are positive indications that the normal citizen is not held ransom by a few negative elements. With the necessary safety precautions and sufficient information the risk can be minimized.

More information can be obtained online from our South Africa page While you are there please show your appreciation for this free newsletter by signing our guest book or send us e-mail with your comments.

This newsletter is compiled by Dries Velthuizen, strategist, analyst, general manager and webmaster of Cybertonature Travel Services

OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2000

GENERAL SITUATION

There has been little progress in Africa's main conflict areas. In Burundi the leaders of various parties are involved in talks but it is unlikely that it will lead to lasting peace. Still, a no-go for the less-than-adventurous traveller.

In Zimbabwe the police have begun to restore some order to the farming areas in the country. However riots broke out in and around Harare over increases in food and transport costs. The government is blaming the opposition part (MDC) for inciting the riots. Zimbabwe is still facing the worst economic crisis since independence in 1980.

Mauritius held peaceful and festive elections. The opposition took over, claiming 54 of 62 seats. The peaceful, dignified transition of power in this multi-cultural society is a cause for optimism. Still a wonderful place to visit ( http://www.cybertonature.co.za/submitpage.html ).

Mozambique is progressing well despite the crippling floods suffered in 1999. Reconstruction has begun and the government is predicting growth of 6-8% this year. The opening of the Nacala railway, as part of the Nacala corridor should boost both northernMozambique and Malawi, as opportunities in mining, tourism agro-processing

and energy are exploited. The rehabilitation of the line is also expected to save Malawi millions of dollars in fuel costs as a result of increased transport efficiencies. Reconstruction of the road networks in the south is in progress. Another positive development is that visitors from South Africa to Mozambique will soon be able to obtain visas at the Recano Garcia/Komatipoort. Mozambique is still a fantastic place to visit.( http://www.cybertonature.co.za/submitpage.html ).

Economic progress Tanzania ( http://www.cybertonature.co.za/tanzania.html) has continued with inflation reaching a 20-year low of 5.8%. In addition, investment in the mining sector continues and is having a positive effect in other sectors.

HEALTH SITUATION

Travellers are warned of an outbreak of the Ebola-virus on the shores of Lake Victoria bordering Kenia, Uganda and Tanzania. (Ebola is a highly contagious viral fever, spreading through contact with body fluids). The outbreak of Cholera in Northern Kwazulu-Natal is also a matter for concern.

SPECIALS AND DESTINATIONS

Wildlife & Cape; Cape 7 nights . Three nights luxury Serondella lodge in the THORNYBUSH PRIVATE GAME RESERVE. Including all meals and two safaris daily. Four nights five star LORD CHARLES HOTEL in the winelands region near Stellenbosch & Franschhoek, 30 minutes from Cape Town, including dinner and breakfast daily. Various tranfers, day tours cape; car hire options available

Victoria Falls . The very popular THORNTREE LODGE package will remain unchanged from 01DEC 2000 until 30 APR 2001. The rate of R 2790,00 per adult sharing or single (for regional and/or international clients) is inclusiveof;

Return airfare in v class (economy) on Air Zimbabwe ex Johannesburg International.

Two nights accommodation at Thorntree Lodge (Zambian side of The Victoria Falls).

Lunch, dinner and breakfast dailies.

All drinks.

Activities including sunset cruise, game drive, guided tour of "The Falls" and Dwamba Market.

Return airport transfers.

Zambian visa costs (if required).

South African airport tax (Zimbabwe airport tax payable direct).

South African Government airport tax.

Additional-night charge - R 625,00 per adult per night, single or sharing (all inclusive).

INTERNET TRAVEL BUSINESS

According to IPK International (a travel and tourism research company in Germany), during 1999 a total of 16.8 million international trips by Europeans were initiated on the Internet. Approximately 23% of all transactions were concluded online. An increase of 300% is expected in the short- and medium term.

During October 2000 an Internet Service Provider started operations in Somalia. All countries in Africa are now online. The continent has approximately 2.58 million Internet users of which 6% are South Africans.

Africam ( http://www.cybertonature.co.za/community.html) and Buy-Africa joined forces to start an e-commerce initiative to promote Africa design products to the global community.

While talking about promoting products: The many overseas companies who are promising profits to Internet affiliates do not honour their commitments to affiliates in Africa. Enquiries in this regard almost always are not answered or some or other technical problem is experienced if the site is visited. Therefore I revamped the Cybertonature Shopfront ( http://www.cybertonature.co.za/affiliates.html ) to focus on South African companies. Let us give it a try.

Cybertonare Travel now also presents web design to companies in the travel industry, both in South Africa and abroad. Especially overseas companies can use the benefit of the positive interest rate to have their sites hosted in South Africa. The functionality, value to the travel community, quality presentation, uniqueness and simplicity of interaction appealed to our partners. You can view our latest project at http://www.traveltheplanet.co.za.