FASTJET REINTRODUCES VIC FALLS – JOBURG ROUTE
Fastjet Zimbabwe has reintroduced its Victoria Falls-Johannesburg service from 16 March, after being placed on hold again in January. The flights operate on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Sundays, departing from Johannesburg’s O.R. Tambo International Airport at 11h10, arriving in Victoria Falls at 12h50. “As COVID-19 restrictions ease, we are reacting to an increased interest for reliable flight connections on this key route, particularly as domestic and regional tourism returns. To complement the Rovos Rail service from Pretoria to Victoria Falls, Fastjet will be adding ad hoc additional flights on a Friday, allowing customers an ‘air-rail’ experience between South Africa and Zimbabwe.” ~ Fastjet Zimbabwe spokesperson.

LUFTHANSA RETURNS TO CAPE TOWN!
From the end of March, Lufthansa will re-introduce direct services to Cape Town, operating flights 3 times a week, and from 1 April, there will be 5 weekly flights between Johannesburg and Frankfurt. SWISS flights between Johannesburg and Zurich will continue 3 times per week. “This brings a new sense of optimism. We are starting to see the light at the end of what has been an immensely challenging period.” ~ Dr André Schulz, Lufthansa’s GM Southern Africa and East Africa.

SOUTH AFRICA: THE BLUE TRAIN ROLLS OUT RAPID TESTS
The Blue Train has taken its health and safety protocols to the next level by adding rapid antigen testing for COVID-19, at no extra cost to guests. The rapid test is mandatory for all guests and crew prior to travel and it complements a comprehensive set of precautionary measures designed for the safety and peace of mind of guests and crew. The antigen rapid testing is conducted during the check-in process at The Blue Train’s VIP lounges in Pretoria and Cape Town. Administering the test is a qualified medical practitioner, and guests receive their results within an hour via text message or email notification. ” In addition to the rapid tests, The Blue Train travels with a certified health practitioner on board and quarantine suites are provided. It also promises regular servicing of its air-conditioning system for common areas and individual suites. “We will continue making necessary adjustments to ensure that The Blue Train prevails as the perfect escape from the freneticism of a COVID-riddled world.” ~ Nomasonto Ndlovu, Executive Manager of Heritage, Tourism and Hospitality at Transnet.

TANZANIA: LUXURY TENTED CAMP TO OPEN IN THE SERENGETI
Siringit Migration Camp, a new luxury tented camp by the Mantis Collection, is set to open in Tanzania’s Serengeti National Park in August. The bespoke mobile camp will follow the movement of the animals during the annual Great Migration – from the Mara River crossings in Northern Serengeti to the calving season in Ndutu, Southern Serengeti. Siringit Migration Camp will feature 8 en-suite canvas tents built on raised platforms. Each tent can accommodate up to 2 guests, while the inter-connected family luxury canvas tent can accommodate up to 4 guests (2 adults and 2 children). All canvas tents have en-suite bathrooms with double vanity, hot water on demand, and eco-friendly flush toilets.

ZIMBABWE: BRITISH AIRWAYS TO RESTART VICTORIA FALLS ROUTE
British Airways recently announced the reopening of bookings for flights between Johannesburg and Victoria Falls for travel – starting from 13 May 2021. Bookings for the regional route are open, and as part of the airline’s ramp up it will operate 2 flights between Johannesburg and Victoria Falls for the duration of May, which will be on a Thursday and Sunday. Thereafter from 1 June 2021, customers can expect to have daily flights to and from the popular tourist destination. “We are delighted to reopen bookings for our services to Victoria Falls as part of the gradual return to our normal schedule. The reopening of the route is also just in time for customers to experience Victoria Falls during its peak tourist season when the entire length of the Victoria Falls is a thundering wall of falling water from May through to August.” ~ Desmond O’Connor, executive of revenue at British Airways.


Click on the links for more information

Eastern Cape
Grahamstown National Arts Festival from 24 June to 4 July 2021

Gauteng
2021 British & Irish Lions tour to SA from 3 July – 7 August 2021

Mpumalanga
Forever Loskop Marathon on 17 April 2021
Dullstroom Arts Festival from 18 – 20 June 2021

Western Cape
SONA (State of the Nation Address) Date to be confirmed
2021 British & Irish Lions tour to SA from 3 July – 7 August 2021
Annual Oil Week from 1 – 5 November 2021


PUBLIC HOLIDAYS

Please note that our offices will be closed on the following Public Holidays:
2 April 2021 (Friday) – Good Friday
5 April 2021 (Monday) – Family Day
27 April 2021 (Tuesday) – Freedom Day