You betcha it’s back! LIFT has announced its third annual Golden Ticket Hunt. And who doesn’t like a good spoil? From LIFT flights - including coveted Premium seats, luxury stays at The Capital Hotels & Apartments, to vouchers up for grabs, LIFT has the "grown up" hunt covered this year.
With warm, sunny days ahead, the KZN South Coast beckons visitors to its stunning beaches. As a top adventure destination boasting family-friendly offerings, it's no wonder that this region is home to the highest number of Blue Flag beaches and tidal pools in the province. The Blue Flag certification, an international standard for environmental management, ensures water quality, safety, and public environmental education, making it a coveted recognition in the tourism industry.
Radisson Hotel Group (www.RadissonHotels.com) solidified its position as one of the leading international hotel groups in the Middle East and Africa during 2023 by signing 22 hotels, resorts, and serviced apartments, adding over 3,800 rooms to its regional portfolio, remaining dedicated to its vision of being among the top three hotel brands globally and the preferred choice for owners, guests, and employees.
Globally, the Group wrapped up 2023 with exceptional growth, adding over 30,000 keys to its international portfolio of 10 leading brands through openings and signings. The Group has grown its business by nearly 50% since the launch of its transformation plan in 2018. It also celebrated a new company record with the addition of its largest number of keys to its portfolio, amounting to over 30,000 keys through openings and signings. Looking ahead, 2024 promises to be a landmark year for Radisson Hotel Group, with 14 new hotel openings slated across various countries in the Middle East and Africa. These openings reflect the ongoing commitment to offering exceptional hospitality experiences while catering to the growing demand for premium accommodation in these regions.
Radisson Safari Hotel Hoedspruit Pool 
Radisson Safari Hotel Hoedspruit Pegasus Bar
Expansion momentum continues in Africa
In Africa, the Group maintained its expansion momentum in 2023, with eight hotel signings, adding over 1,600 rooms to its robust African Portfolio. With this progress, it is well on its way to achieving its objective of reaching 150 hotels in Africa over the next five years, up from its current count of 100 hotels. These hotel signings included new market entries into Gambia with Radisson Blu Beach Resort & Spa, Banjul and Radisson Hotel Benin City in Nigeria. In addition to the Radisson hotel in Benin City, the signing of Radisson Collection Hotel & Conference Center, Abuja; Radisson Blu Hotel, Abuja CBD and Radisson RED Lagos VI further strengthened the Group’s position as the market leaders in Nigeria, with its portfolio now expanding to 12 hotels and over 1700 rooms. Highlighting the Group’s priorities in Africa for 2024, Ramsay Rankoussi, Vice President, Business Development for Africa and Turkey at Radisson Hotel Group, said, “We have an exciting year ahead with five hotel openings in Africa, reinforcing our market leader stance in our key countries such as Egypt, Morocco and South Africa but also maintaining the fastest growth across the continent in tangible openings. Building on the momentum of the Radisson Collection Resort, Marsa Alam Port Phoenice signing, introducing the Radisson Collection brand in the country with an exceptional resort, we will also open the first standalone serviced apartments in Egypt with Radisson Residences Cairo Heliopolis within the coming months.” In Morocco, Radisson Hotel Group further enhances its flourishing portfolio with the highly anticipated opening of Radisson Hotel Casablanca Gauthier, the debut of the Radisson brand in Morocco, scheduled for Q2. This latest opening adds to much anticipation of the growing potential of the country which the Group has made its priority. In South Africa, Radisson Hotel Group is set to add its 12th hotel with the opening of Radisson Hotel Middelburg later this year, following the successful opening of its first safari hotel in Africa with the recently announced Radisson Safari Hotel Hoedspruit. “In addition to these key markets, we are proactively pursuing East Africa this year, with Kenya and Tanzania identified as market priorities. As resorts continue to play an important role in our global strategic growth plan, we will build on our successful resort expansion in Africa, which has included the recent openings of Radisson Blu Resort Mosi-oa-Tunya in Livingstone and our debut in Reunion Island with the opening of Radisson Hotel Saint Denis” adds Ramsay Rankoussi. Over the past three years, Radisson Hotel Group has emerged as the fastest-growing hotel group in Africa, with 20 hotel openings across the continent. This impressive feat has set a record for the Group in terms of the realization of its pipeline into openings and has translated into a commendable 15 percent annual growth on its African portfolio. |
| Radisson Red Lagos Render Suite Bedroom |
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| Radisson Hotel Benin City Night Facade |
Radisson Collection Hotel Conference Center Abuja Nigeria
Radisson Blu Hotel Abuja CBD Exterior
Strategic focus on the Middle East
In the Middle East the Group opened over 1,000 keys in the past 12 months and is on track to open 2,000 keys in 2024. The Group continues to drive its aspirations in the region, targeting 150 properties to be operational or under development across the Middle East by 2030.
In the last quarter of 2023, Radisson Hotel Group revealed new hotels across Oman: Muscat Levatio Suites, a member of Radisson Individuals and Radisson Hotel Muscat Panorama, as well as opening the first Radisson Individuals in Saudi Arabia, with the opening of Vivid Jeddah, A Radisson Individuals hotel. In addition to these openings, the Group has also signed agreements for Park Inn by Radisson Resort Bimmah and Radisson Serviced Apartments Salalah. In Jordan, Radisson Blu Hotel, Amman Galleria Mall opened its doors in offering 178 keys catering to travelers seeking convenience and luxury. Further, the Group was proud to announce the signing of Radisson Hotel & Residences Erbil, in Iraq’s vibrant city of Erbil which also opened during the course of the year, opening a new market and significant development destination for the Group. In addition, Pakistan remains a focus for the Group by signing four hotels and serviced apartments in the capital city of Islamabad with the first opening in this new market anticipated for 2025.
Looking ahead, the Group plans further expansion in Makkah with the highly anticipated debut of Park Inn by Radisson Makkah Thaker West and of Park Inn by Radisson Makkah Thakher East in Q1 with new standards for contemporary lodging in the holy city of Makkah to meet the needs of an increasing number of international and regional visitors. Also set for opening in early 2024 is Radisson Hotel Jeddah Tahlia Street and as well as the introduction of the Park Inn by Radisson brand to Kuwait with the opening of Park Inn by Radisson Hotel & Apartments Kuwait.
Elie Milky, Vice President Business Development, Middle East, Greece, Cyprus, and Pakistan at Radisson Hotel Group, said: “Our ambitions remain strong as we continue our robust expansion efforts in the region, focusing particularly on resorts as well as serviced apartments. We continue to penetrate new markets as we have seen in Erbil and Amman while we strengthen our position with strategic owners in established cities such as Jeddah, Riyadh, Kuwait, Makkah and Muscat, to name a few. Our value proposition to our existing and new owners continues to improve with a comprehensive brand offering and a pragmatic conversions approach to drive openings.”
The Group also received the Sustainable Business Award at the Global Travel Hall of Fame, validating the company's dedication to responsible travel and tourism. The Group was also recognized at A World for Travel with the Environmental Impact Award for its role in the development of the Hotel Sustainability Basics. RadissonHotels.com, the Group’s leading website, and app won a total of five prestigious awards, in particular for its pioneering and industry-leading Immersive Content Project.
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| Radisson Blu Hotel Abuja CBD Exterior |
Radisson Collection Resort Marsa Alam Port Phoenice
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| Radisson Hotel Casablanca Gauthier La Citadelle Exterior |
As Easter approaches, travelers are gearing up for a memorable Sho't Left adventure across the diverse landscapes of South Africa. With its breathtaking scenery and rich cultures, Mzansi promises an unparalleled holiday experience for those seeking rest, relaxation, and exploration.
With less than a month left until the highly anticipated 2024 edition of the Joburg Film Festival, movie enthusiasts are buzzing with excitement as organizers, alongside partner MultiChoice, unveil a spectacular lineup of over 60 titles set to grace the big screen.
Valentine's Day 2024 was more than just chocolates and roses for lucky passengers aboard the 09:30 flight from Johannesburg to Cape Town. Proudly South African, in collaboration with LIFT, orchestrated a remarkable Fashion Show in The Sky, surprising travelers with a unique blend of fashion and patriotism. As unsuspecting passengers settled into their seats, they were greeted with roses and Nestlé Kit Kat, setting the stage for an unforgettable journey.
Are you seeking the perfect getaway to ignite the flames of romance? Look no further than The Capital Zimbali—a haven of luxury nestled along the pristine coastline of KwaZulu-Natal. Join me as I recount my enchanting Valentine's weekend retreat at this exquisite destination, filled with indulgence, relaxation, and unforgettable moments.
What better way to spend a leisurely Sunday afternoon than surrounded by good food, refreshing drinks, and great company? At The Maslow Sandton, the first Sunday of every month beckons with an exquisite picnic experience set amidst lush lawns, offering a perfect blend of relaxation and indulgence.
As a passionate traveler and food enthusiast, stepping into the revolutionary world of KFC Play Braam was an experience unlike any other. Located in the heart of Johannesburg's bustling Play Braamfontein precinct, this concept store promised a fusion of flavors, fashion, and digital delights that piqued the blogger's curiosity.
Embark on an unforgettable journey as MSC Cruises opens sales for its South Africa 2024/25 sailing season, spotlighting the magnificent MSC Musica. Set to commence in November 2024 from the newly inaugurated R 330 million Nelson Mandela Cruise Terminal in Durban, the season promises 34 enchanting sailings, concluding in April 2025 with departures from the picturesque Cape Town.
Love is in the air, and what better way to celebrate Valentine's Day than with a romantic getaway at some of South Africa's top-tier independent hotels? In this blog post, we present handpicked destinations that offer not only luxurious accommodations but also unique experiences to create lasting memories with your loved one.
Are you ready to ignite the flames of passion this Valentine's Day? Look no further than The Maslow, Sandton, for an enchanting getaway that promises to sweep you off your feet. This leap year, seize the opportunity to surprise your partner with a memorable retreat to the ultimate haven in Sandton.
Embarking on a journey beyond the ordinary, JW Marriott Masai Mara Lodge promises a redefined family travel experience, transcending the traditional vacation. Nestled in the captivating expanse of the Masai Mara, the 'Interconnecting Family Suite' stands as a sanctuary meticulously designed for families, where the emphasis is on creating enduring stories and weaving bonds that stand the test of time.
Get ready to embark on an exciting journey of home and lifestyle exploration as the Johannesburg HOMEMAKERS Fair returns to the prestigious Kyalami Grand Prix Circuit and International Convention Centre from March 1 to 3, 2024. Celebrating its 30th anniversary, this year's fair promises an extraordinary experience with carefully curated exhibits, vendors, and innovative features.
Experience the epitome of luxury as La Petite Ferme unveils its meticulously renovated Winery Suites, an enchanting addition to their award-winning boutique hotel and wine estate. Nestled on the slopes of the Franschhoek Mountains, these five all-new suites promise a perfect blend of modernity and heritage, providing a tranquil escape with breathtaking views over the valley.
Embark on a journey through Qatar's rich cultural heritage without leaving Hamad International Airport (HIA). Qatar Duty Free proudly presents Souq Al Matar, an innovative blend of retail and dining, immersing travelers in the vibrant energy of traditional Qatari markets. Let's explore this groundbreaking concept that redefines airport experiences.
In an exhilarating start to 2024, LIFT, the airline dedicated to redefining the air travel experience, has proudly clinched the coveted title of "Best New Airline Brand, South Africa" for 2023 from Global Brands Magazine (GBM). This prestigious accolade underscores LIFT's unwavering commitment to excellence and innovation within the aviation industry.
Summer, with its blazing sun and rising temperatures, brings forth unique challenges for our skin. From clogged pores to breakouts, diverse skin types face a range of issues. Oily skin may battle increased sebum production, while dry skin can become dehydrated under the intense sunlight. Even those with combination and sensitive skin are not exempt from summer's impact. In this blog post, we'll explore the common skin concerns of summer and unveil the perfect trio of Avene products to tackle them.
22 November marked a momentous occasion as the Nelson Mandela Cruise Terminal was officially inaugurated, paving the way for a new era of luxury cruising in South Africa. MSC Cruises is thrilled to announce the grand entrance of MSC Splendida, set to make its maiden call to the country and embark on its first cruise of the season tomorrow, November 24, 2023.
The R330 million Nelson Mandela Cruise Terminal in South Africa’s main port of Durban today was officially inaugurated by President Cyril Ramaphosa ahead of the start of South Africa’s 2023-24 cruise season.
Joburg Ballet gives Johannesburg a magnificent festive season present this summer when the company brings The Nutcracker to the Teatro at Montecasino for 11 performances from 1 to 10 December.
Beat the heat of the summer season by sipping on a gin and tonic in the stunning natural paradise that is Sun International’s only beachfront resort, Wild Coast Sun near Port Edward.
Summer is in the air in Dullstroom… warm days, smiling faces, flowers blooming, birds twittering, bees buzzing.
Disney has officially unveiled its captivating holiday campaign, "May Your Wishes Come True," marking the celebration of its 100th anniversary. This enchanting campaign is centered on the profound significance of wishes and features the debut of the first-ever live-action festive ad, titled "A Wish For The Holidays." The ad draws inspiration from the upcoming Walt Disney Animation Studios' movie, "Wish," and will be showcased in over 50 countries.
Southern Sun is excited to announce that Southern Sun Rosebank will be hosting an exclusive Wine Tasting Experience following the 27th Michelangelo International Wine & Spirits Awards. This prestigious event, scheduled for the weekend of 10 and 11 November, promises an unforgettable journey through a remarkable selection of premium South African wines and spirits.
As the summer season makes its grand entrance, people across the board are rekindling their health and fitness routines. Whether the goal is to shed those extra winter layers in time for summer or to hit the reset button on their overall well-being, it's evident that gyms are filling up once again.
With so much to offer local travellers, more and more South Africans are exploring our country’s very own hidden gems, resorts or off-the-beaten-track spots, creating lasting memories with friends and family along the way.
We've hand-picked our top out-of-the-ordinary local spots that might delight you and your family.
The Walt Disney Company Africa and LIFT unveiled a co-branded celebratory aircraft livery to kick-off Disney’s biggest festive campaign to date in South Africa, “May Your Wishes Come True”.
The livery features some of the most iconic and memorable characters from Disney, MARVEL and Star WarsTM, including: Disney’s Mickey and Minnie Mouse, Moana, Black Panther, GroguTM, Elsa, Spidey. A brand new character also makes an appearance, Asha, from Walt Disney Animation Studios’ upcoming “Wish", which releases in cinemas nationwide from 22 November. The Disney inspired plane (tail number ZS-GAS) will appear in South African skies and at airports from 20 October and service routes between Johannesburg, Cape Town and Durban.
On board, customers can expect special Disney and LIFT surprises, as well as kiddies activity packs to make flying with little ones a breeze during the busy holiday season, with giveaways and more treats. The excitement won't stop there, because LIFT has additional surprises between 1 and 12 December for lucky travelers on select flights, as South Africans get ready for the festive season.
Fans and travellers who spot or travel on the Disney-inspired Plane can share their pics on social media, using the hashtag #DisneyandLIFT and tagging @DisneyAfrica and @LIFT__SA.
Says Christine Service, Senior Vice President and General Manager of The Walt Disney Company Africa: "To mark our 100th year anniversary (16 October 2023), The Walt Disney Company is celebrating the fans and storytellers who have sparked the joy and magic that embodies Disney over the last century. We hope that this exciting and unique collaboration with LIFT will bring delight to travellers of all ages this holiday season as we mark this milestone anniversary.”
Says Luke Roberts, General Manager, Consumer Products, Games and Publishing, The Walt Disney Company Africa; “Rolling out in stores nationwide from November, “May Your Wishes Come True” is Disney’s biggest retail campaign to date. With the holiday season approaching and “Wish” releasing in cinemas nationwide from 24 November, we are inspired by the universal truth of wishing to be together at this special time. This collaboration with LIFT truly celebrates this togetherness with families and fans.”
Says Jonathan Ayache, CEO of LIFT.: “As a beloved family brand, Disney is a perfect fit for LIFT. With our new livery, together we celebrate the love, magic and family togetherness that signals the festive season. We’re proud to link arms with Disney, through this collaboration, our hope is to ignite a sense of fun, wonder and excitement for the whole family during the upcoming season of school holidays and family celebrations.”
Customers can visit www.lift.co.za to book flights and stand a chance of flying on the #DisneyandLIFT aircraft. Travellers aboard the airline will continue to enjoy all the perks LIFT has to offer including complimentary snacks, coffee from vida e caffè and extra-friendly service from the stylish cabin crew. LIFT has flexible flight changes with unlimited penalty-free changes and no cancellation fees up to 24 hours before departure.
From what to pack and how to squeeze it all in, to the benefits of roll-over folding and the 1-6 rule, Qatar Airways’ share packing secrets.
Serving more than 160 destinations around the world from its Doha hub, Hamad International Airport, Qatar Airways crew get to go lots of places, often. Here are some of their tips on practical packing.
Samara Karoo Reserve, near Graaff-Reinet in the Eastern Cape’s Great Karoo region and home to the Big Five, over 60 mammal species and 225 bird species, was recognised in the Top 15 Resorts in South Africa.
Leading hospitality group Africa Albida Tourism (AAT) walked away with five awards at the 28th edition of the Association of Zimbabwe Travel Agents (AZTA) awards, including Best Resort Hotel for its flagship property Victoria Falls Safari Lodge for the 25th year. The prestigious event took place on September 30 at the renowned Meikles Hotel, where Africa Albida Tourism received the awards for its exceptional contribution to the Zimbabwe travel industry.
On Monday 16 October, Zolani Mahola, "The One Who Sings", joined LIFT to treat travellers to a surprise Silent Disco performance in the sky.
Have you even had a South African December holiday if you didn’t spend it at the coast? With the countdown to the holiday season feeling within reach, consider Sun International’s breathtakingly beautiful four-star rated Wild Coast Sun as the ultimate family destination.
Acclaimed experiential department store We Are EGG The Zone @ Rosebank in Johannesburg marked its first anniversary this past weekend with a vibrant celebration, attended by a long list of celebrities, fashion designers, influencers and key media.
The anticipation is building as the countdown begins for the much-awaited return of the Silver Spirit to the shores of Southern Africa and the Indian Ocean Islands. Following our initial announcement, we are thrilled to share more details about this extraordinary cruise experience that awaits traveler's from December 2023 through February 2024.
Visiting the Western Cape in spring is an unparalleled experience. As the province sheds its winter cloak, it comes to life with a burst of vibrant wildflowers, breathtaking scenery, and a mild and inviting climate. Spring always brings a burst of colour to the landscapes opening the opportunity to experience mother nature work her magic.
Less than an hour’s drive from the Mother City nestled in the Cape Winelands, Franschhoek is one of the premier wine-producing regions in the country known for its picturesque vineyards, wineries surrounded by stunning landscapes.
With its surrounding breath-taking mountain ranges Franschhoek is an outdoor enthusiast’s playground, welcome the spring wildflowers with a short hike, work your way through dozens of winding trails - leading to views that will leave you in awe.
If sampling the finer things in life is more your style, then one of the more than 45 wineries nestled in the valley, should do the trick - ranging from spectacular to the family owned, this region is known for producing astonishingly good wines, and what better way to sip your way through the list than by travelling in style on the Franschhoek Wine Tram running on tracks that are more than 100 years old the tram is a must visit if you find yourself in Franschhoek.
Whether it’s a weekend away to decompress or a weeklong staycation there are quite a number of accommodations offers – from rustic country style accommodation to quaint luxury boutique offerings like the Protea by Marriott Hotel Franschhoek.
As tourism month kicks into high gear, it's the perfect time to celebrate and support local travel by embracing the opportunity to savour the sites and flavours of Franschhoek creating cherished memories.
Elevate your summer festivities with an exciting twist as we introduce the ultimate enhancement for your Roku Japanese Gin cocktail. Bring your cocktails to life with these six exquisite garnishes that will redefine your journey as a cocktail enthusiast. Roku Japanese Gin, with its harmonious blend of botanicals, offers a canvas for creativity that deserves to be explored this summer.
De Hoop Nature Reserve, a World Heritage site and Marine Protected area in the Overberg region is world renowned as one the best spots for land-based whale watching in South Africa. Every year, between June and November some 40% of the world’s southern right whales come to these shores to breed.
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According to marine conservation photographer, Jean Tresfon, Koppie Alleen in the De Hoop Nature Reserve had the highest concentration of whales. He recently undertook the first official aerial survey of southern right whale numbers for 2023 with Dr Els Vermeulen of the UP Mammal Research Institute Whale Unit.
“The first whale we spotted, in Hermanus just under the cliffs near the Old Harbour, was upside down with a tiny calf on her chest. As we went on, we started to see more and more southern right whales, with 346 whales (of which 172 were calves) counted between Struisbaai and Skipskop Point. But, as expected we found the main concentration of whales at Koppie Alleen. There were so many whales here that the counting was an exercise in itself! The final number was 472 whales, (236 were calves) in the bay at Koppie Alleen, while another 115 whales (57 calves) were counted along the rest of the De Hoop coastline towards Cape Infanta."
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The final figure from the aerial survey from Hermanus to Witsand of 1 136 whales, showed a substantial increase over the numbers counted over the past four years, but still less than the record numbers seen in 2018.
“Whale time is definitely a favourite time at De Hoop Collection,” said William Stephens, owner of De Hoop Collection on hearing the results. “This figure comes as no surprise. Koppie Alleen, with its relatively warm and calm waters is a haven for whales and their calves and is in fact the most important nursery area on the South African coast for southern right whales and this results in impressive numbers of whale sightings.”
The De Hoop Collection situated in the heart of the magnificent reserve and just three hours from Cape Town, offers a range of affordable accommodation from campsite rondawels, self-catering cottages and houses (sleeping from two to six people) to romantic suites, an old stone Manor house and the recent addition of the De Mond Villa.
Member of Cape Country Routes, the De Hoop Collection is the perfect destination for a weekend getaway – here you get to experience a unique outdoor experience like no other - the sea, the beaches, a Ramsar listed vlei, rare indigenous plants, diverse animal and bird life… and the Whales. “De Hoop continues to be the best spot for whale watching in South Africa From the high vantage point of the pristine dunes of Koppie Alleen our guests get to enjoy incredible sightings of the whales breaching, tail slapping and spyhopping - a term for when a whale rises partially out of the water in an upright position”.
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Book now and experience the magic that is De Hoop!
Call or email Samantha at De Hoop Collection +27 (0)21 422 4522, res@dehoopcollection.co.za
Reservations: 021-422 4522 or res@dehoopcollection.co.za, www.dehoopcollection.com