News & Press

Michelle Sander, KZN Sales Executive and Nico Vanzyl from Thompsons Corporate hosted 10 corporate travel bookers. They enjoyed a site inspection at The Riverside Hotel and Spa and a delicious breakfast with the ever entertaining Manny keeping the lassies and gents up to date with the weather, news and exchange rates updates.

Everyone then headed for the New Moses Mabhida Stadium where everyone was treated to a full tour of the stadium, from the media rooms, change rooms, outer field and presidential suite. The overall opinion was a resounding WOW. The day was a nice surprise for the guests as part of the tour was ride in the state of the art cable car where everyone enjoyed a birds eye view of our wonderful city of Durban.

Of the approximately 20 leaders (volunteers) of Pride of Table Mountain (PTM) who regularly attend bi-monthly hikes throughout the year, only 13 were able to participate in the weekend trip to the Cederberg. This was a group of 7 young ladies and 6 young men, none of whom had ever visited the Cederberg before. In fact, most of them had not heard of the Cederberg nor did they know where it was!

- The leopard and its precarious existence in the Cederberg its prey and its predators (us);
- The work of the CLT
- The different snakes found in the area and the possible danger to them of each kind of snake;
- Tracking - following the tracks of different creatures that may remain unseen by their eyes;
- Scorpions -which are dangerous and which are not

Elizabeth Martins of Cape Leopard Trust (CLT), who undertakes the environmental education for CLT, was pivotal in suggesting that I bring the leaders of PTM to her newly constructed campsite for a weekend in the Cederberg before the regular PTM trail schedule started in 2010. We planned the trip together and she kindly offered to sponsor the venue and all the activities and teaching from CLT perspective, if PTM could raise the funds for the bus and the food - which was achieved. The weekend was not without its stresses but was also a great success.

To report briefly on the stressful side, this was due mainly to the bus' difficulty on some of the mountain passes and the declining fuel gauge. The leaders (and myself) undertook a lengthy walk in the intense afternoon heat on the gravel road after the bus overheated whilst negotiating some of the steeper climbs. Nearly all commented in their feedback on this physically tiring exercise - mostly positive comments that they achieved something they did not think they could. The bus trip took much longer than planned - over six hours each way for a trip that usually takes between 4 and 4 1/2 hours -and the non-availability of fuel - these two factors also contributed to some anxiety - but mostly mine.

Once at the CLT campsite though, the leaders were cheerful and excited about the adventure. I heard fearful comments about snakes and leopards and sleeping in tents. After the excitement of arriving at the campsite which is adjacent to a small river - heaven after the long, thirsty drive - Liz showed us around the campsite and proudly demonstrated the dry toilets and bucket showers. The first task of erecting the tents created an avenue for team work and some competitiveness and this was completed with relative ease, once Liz had demonstrated. They easily divided themselves into groups to sleep in the different tents.

As we had arrived late, the team selected for dinner duties immediately commenced preparation whilst the rest played in the river and experimented with the showers and toilets. Dinner and then a walk in the dark, with torches, to the offices of CLT where Liz presented on the work and research of CLT, which included some pictures and information on the resident snakes. Many expressed intense fear at the thought of meeting a snake on the path, and Liz went to great lengths to explain the appropriate way to respond, depending on what snake, if one was found in the path.

An early rise next morning, breakfast and then a short drive to Kromrivier before a long, hot hike to the disa pools, led by Willem, the assistant from CLT who has a quiet but very effective manner. The first half-hour was spent bush-whacking uphill (a few moans and groans along the way) and then along a clearly defined path. The hike included a period of solo-silent walking to try and listen to nature - or let nature speak. The crystal clear mountain pool was a source of great joy for those that were not afraid of swimming - more than half of the group. However, some did not join the main group at the pool. A couple of youth gave Liz and I some frightening moments when they were suddenly out of their depth - thankfully, no serious consequences.

Back at the campsite at around 2 pm, most of the youth had a well-deserved nap after hotdogs for lunch. Later, when it was a little cooler, we took the bus to a wonderful outcrop of natural rock sculptures where Liz talked about the fynbos and then they each took a board and pencil and were asked to draw a plant that "spoke" to them. Many of them found this a profound exercise - connecting more deeply and seeing more than they might have otherwise when looking at fynbos.

The highlight for most of the group was the last night's scorpion hunt with Quinton and his ultra-violet light. Searching for and then watching Quinton pick up and hold the creature whilst sharing his vast knowledge on scorpions - was a delight to all. Some were brave enough to stroke it.

An early departure after breakfast on Sunday meant no activities beforehand except to complete the feedback form prepared by Liz. A lot of thought went into the preparation of this form and to my perception, the youth responded to the questions with some deep reflection on their experience which I have found to be most valuable.

In general, the preparation of the CLT team (Liz and Willem) for our weekend visit was really well thought through and planned. However, due to our late arrival, the extreme heat and our early departure on Sunday, we were not able to take part in all the activities that had been on the plan. The CLT campsite is a treat - and creates serious opportunities for discussion around water saving and the advantages and otherwise of dry toilets. The lessons and activities were interesting and exciting and, I would say, that every one in the group would jump at an opportunity to visit again, including the bus driver. But, for at least one day longer next time!

Now known as Inn on the Square, as the latest property to be added to their ever growing management portfolio. The well known Greenmarket Square Hotel is based in Cape Town and brings with it many exciting changes for the year ahead.

The Park Inn not only welcomes The Three Cities Group as their new Management company, but also welcomes the opportunity of rebranding, going forward into 2010, changing from the "Park Inn" to the now renamed "Inn on the Square". The modern, leisure hotel which overlooks the vibrant Greenmarket Square has promptly begun the rebranding process, refreshing their image and building their new brand in time for the 2010 World Cup.

The hotel is in close proximity to most tourist attractions, restaurants, shops and entertainment, situated in a prime location within the business and government district. The hotel boasts 165 rooms including 16 family rooms. Situated 25 km from Cape Town International Airport and five minutes' walk from Cape Town train and bus station, the hotel offers convenience at guest's finger tips.

2010 Fifa World Cup is here and it’s time to have a ball with us during the exciting celebrations - the action packed humming anticipation and rhythm that vibrate through each person, every establishment, and every activity across the globe.

And to make sure you're close, on top of the happenings and have an absolute whale-of-a-time, the Three Cities Group has launched a new website, www.worldcup2010-accommodation.com highlighting the 'in the hot spots - close to the action’ establishments with a variety of specialised packages and entertainment on offer.

The website is easy to navigate and features offerings of luxurious and well appointed hotels, resorts and game lodges, conveniently situated close to each regional stadium, guaranteeing a Three Cities stamp of excellence, with service like you've never seen before delivered by passionate staff standing on-guard, ready to provide exceptional hospitality assistance, ensuring that every wish is surpassing any expectation.

Each individual property's restaurant offers opulent dining in hip and refreshing venues whilst enjoying vast varieties and delectable cuisine with big screens set up in on-site pubs and bars, ensuring guests stay on top of the action 24/7.

With quick links set to: 2010 accommodation in Durban, Mpumalanga and Cape Town; restaurant and dining venues, bars and pubs; experiencing Africa with golf and spa venues, wildlife safaris at Victoria Falls and Chobe; things to do and local attractions; and a subscription to receiving e-newsletters, website visitors can make a quick booking, taking advantage of the specials, checking out where to go, what to do and where all the action will be.

Book your 2010 accommodation today and get the most reasonable packages available, plus - make a child smile: for every booking, Three Cities will contribute R2-00 towards purchasing soccer balls for disadvantaged schools.

Contact central reservations: 0861 000 333; international visitors: +27 31 310 6900; ceres@threecities.co.za

The Three Cities Group along with many other hospitality groups are set to welcome thousands of visitors to South Africa during the 2010 World Cup, welcoming visitors with arms wide open. However, over this time Three Cities would like to emphasis their commitment to their regular clients, promising to support them by making rooms available on standard contracted rates during this period, based on demand and availability.

Amidst the preparations and planning going forward, the Group is confident in making sure they keep focused on who and what is important at this critical time.

Shaun Landing, Sales Director of the Three Cities Group, who joined the Group in early December, has applauded his regional sales managers for their preparation of the World Cup, who with the help of their teams are set to achieve outstanding results.

At last week’s Three Cities Sales Conference the regional managers were asked what their visions for their team were the regional managers responses were:

Craig Parvess, Regional Sales Manager, Johannesburg ; said “ To exceed our sales targets and to be a recognised as a world-class Sales Team from South Africa, and by all stakeholders as the best travel and tourism team in South Africa.” Craig’s team consists of the following members: Jacque Gabellone ,Cynthia Mahwite, Lauren Milne, Brendan Munro ,Arno Strydom

Debbie Van Heerden,Regional Sales Manager, Durban; said “ We want To be Africa’s hotel group of choice for all Business Travellers.” Debbie’s team consists of the following members: Hayley Biggar,Cheryl Courtois,Ditto Dlamini,Michelle Sanders.

Joanne Fredericks, Regional Sales Manager, Cape Town; said “I would like to see a strongly motivated team achieve all the goals set before us and enjoy the time spent doing so.” Joanne’s Team consists of the following members: Daniel Cattermole,Deon Cox,Karen Friedrichs,Chantelle Mogg.

At the Sales Conference Shaun Landing announced the employment of an International Sales Manager, who will be based in South Africa. The newly appointed Sales Manager will be responsible for local DMC’s and International clients. This decision has been made in order to help develop a closer more personal, one on one relationship with both our International and local clients.”

On conclusion of the Sales Conference all regional teams are ready to take on what lies ahead, with new vigour in achieving common goals, visions and missions.

Drive 90 minutes out of Cape Town up the West Coast and you will discover a neck of land so protected from the elements that it proposes abundant vegetation, palms and beaches as well as being one of the only places in the country where you can watch the sun rise and set over the ocean. This is Shelley Point Hotel, Country Club and Spa, a community set on a private peninsula adjacent to St Helena Bay, fringed by three ecological bays each with its own unique qualities, from beautiful white beaches with world-class surf to clear azure water and one of the calmest bays on the West Coast.

It is also where, along with a challenging links-style golf course, you will find Shelley Point Hotel, Country Club and Spa, an exclusive getaway on the West Coast Riviera.

Over-looking talcum white sands and the lush green golf links, Shelley Point Hotel, Country Club & Spa is a magnificent sanctuary for the senses in keeping with the calm energy of this magnificent part of the Cape.

With 44 elegantly decorated en-suite rooms, the traveler may choose from a Studio Suite, Mezzanine suite with loft bedroom and Garden Suite – all emphasizing privacy, space and comfort.

Along with a sun-splashed swimming pool and adjacent club lounge, the hotel also boasts a large, sensory wellness spa, boutique, hair salon, pro golf shop, a hi-tech gym, tennis courts and fully fledged Kids Club (allowing you to take time out on the golf course or in the spa).

The sensational space of the Spa & Wellness Centre is the perfect place to de-stress and find time in holistic treatments and specialized massage therapies for men and women, along with facilities including a jacuzzi & indoor pool, sauna & sensation showers.

The exclusive Shelley Point Hotel, Country Club & Spa was also designed to host private conferences from 25 to 80 delegates, with its own lounge, meeting rooms, private garden & bar and state of the art presentation facilities.

The main appeal of the West Coast though remains its laid-back lifestyle and relaxed, unhurried atmosphere as well as its stunning natural beauty with magnificent sea views and long sandy beaches, perfect for all manner of water-sports and a playground of whales, dolphins and sea birds.

From Shelley Point hotel, Country Club and Spa, a dedicated nature trail takes the guest through the estate. Whether it’s to view the sun rise or the sunset is your call.

The agreement between The Three Cities Group and Queensgate Hotels & Leisure Limited in late 2009 saw Three Cities taking over the management of selective Queensgate Hotels, on a fee sharing basis. This union has allowed both companies to focus on their core competencies and from the start has proven to be a highly successful decision.

The Three Cities Group is pleased with the selection of General Managers for the Queensgate properties going forward. Each appointed General Manager has the skills, experience and dedication needed to run a successful property, bringing with them a fountain of knowledge and outstanding array of experience and talent in their fields. Three Cities is proud to have such a strong team leading these properties into the highly anticipated year ahead of us .

• Rockwell All Suite Hotel - General Manager, Michael Corrigan
  Michael studied a BComm Financial Accounting and completed an Honours degree in Management Accounting at Stellenbosch University. Michael has four years experience in the industry and is very optimistic about working with the Three Cities group going forward into 2010.
• Shelley Point Hotel, Country Club & Spa - General Manager, Desmond O Connor
  Desmond studied Hotel Management through Karos Hotels and Wits Hotel School and has been in the hotel industry for 20 years. Desmond is very excited about working with the Three Cities Group during this phase of new development going forward into 2010.
• The Avenue Hotel & Constantia House – General Manager, Linda Steel
  Linda Steel has worked in the hospitality industry for 29 years, gaining the experience she needs for her position as General Manager. Linda is excited to be working with Three Cities viewing it as a fresh, vibrant and dynamic company.
• The Alphen Hotel - General Manager, Brian Bowes
  Brian has worked his way through various departments within a hotel, gaining exceptional experience over the last 20 years that he has spent working in the industry. Brian looks forward to working with Three Cities and their staff members, bringing with them knowledgeable and a sense of commitment within the industry.

Three Cities welcomes the new General Managers and wishes them a successful future at their respective properties.

The Square Boutique Hotel & Spa, a brand new Three Cities hotel, opens in the heart of the Umhlanga during April/May 2010. The hotel was planned within a vibrant, active mix of retail and commercial properties, designed with synergy and natural cool colours to create the perfect atmosphere for relaxation.

A mere 20min drive from Durban International Airport, 10min from the new King Shaka airport, a stone's throw away from Gateway Theatre of Shopping, Umhlanga and La Lucia office parks, and 15min from Durban central, this long anticipated new hotel is situated in a prime location among the energetic hustle and bustle of Umhlanga Ridge.

This sophisticated and trendy hotel offers the ultimate in luxury for business travellers and families, positioned in a safe, pleasant and globally competitive environment where visitors can experience the growth of South Africa's most exciting development node, where people live, work and holiday in a contemporary urban setting on a subtropical coastline with year-round summer and incomparable lifestyle.

The hotel is central to the latest in developments such as the Umhlanga Medical centre, offices that house most of Durban's blue chip and multinational companies, motor dealerships, the Crescent lifestyle centre, and upmarket residential developments. The Square Boutique Hotel & Spa is ideally placed close to the Moses Mabhida Soccer stadium, sharing in the buzzing anticipation of the 2010 Fifa Wold Cup kick-off with Match 7 played on 13 June, Germany versus Australia, the first of six matches to be played in this stadium.

The hotel has 50 sophisticated rooms with air-conditioning, satellite TV, telephone, internet and email, mini bar, room safes, fold out sofas for children under 12 years, and laundry service. The onsite Dish restaurant serves all types of cuisine, A La Carte and Buffet style, open for breakfasts, lunches and dinners. The Square Boutique Hotel and Spa has its very own spa and a compact fitness centre, creating the perfect scenario for ultimate leisure and pampering.

The Square Boutique Hotel and Spa is modern with functionality and elegance, set close to a natural environment of reclaimed wetlands where thousands of indigenous trees and shrubs encourage birds and animals to blend in with the beautiful surrounds. It's minutes away from the pristine beaches of Umhlanga rocks, two casinos, wine tasting venues, whale watching, golf, fishing, shark diving, deep see diving, scuba diving, abseiling, and health clubs.

The Square Boutique Hotel and Spa on 250 Umhlanga Rocks Drive is sure to become the ideal destination for travellers, offering an international urban lifestyle in a magnificent and tranquil setting with the unequalled convenience of being in proximity to everything.

The Square Boutique Hotel and Spa is part of Three Cities Management, a leading hospitality management company offering an extensive collection of hotels throughout Southern Africa.

In the latter part of 2009 the Three Cities Group joined forces with Queensgate Hotels & Leisure Limited, adding 500 rooms to their portfolio. On signing the highly anticipated agreement, a collection of spectacular properties immediately fell under the management of the Three Cities Group.

In addition to the original list of properties obtained by the Three Cities Group in the agreement, 2010 has brought with it yet another Queensgate property which joins Group.

The Three Cities Group is delighted to announce the dynamic Park Inn property as the latest property to be added to their ever growing management portfolio.

The hotel is in close proximity to most tourist attractions, restaurants, shops and entertainment, situated in a prime location within the business and government district. The hotel boasts 166 rooms including 16 family rooms. Situated 25 km from Cape Town International Airport and five minutes’ walk from Cape Town train and bus station, the hotel offers convenience at guest’s finger tips.

2009 was an exciting year for Three Cities, with the announcement of joining forces with Queensgate Hotels & Leisure Limited, adding 500 rooms to their portfolio. Tinga Private Game Lodge was the newest addition to join the group with two lodges, namely Legends and Narina, each offering nine suites. Tinga is a five star luxury safari lodge situated in an exclusive 5000-hectare concession with prime game-viewing areas and 35km of river frontage along the Sabie and Sand rivers in the Kruger National Park.

“We are delighted that Tinga Private Game Lodge joined our portfolio.” says Shaun Landing, newly appointed Sales Director of Three Cities. Landing harbours a wealth of knowledge and experience within the five star and international markets. “We’re looking forward to offer our five star travellers a true African experience through routes like David Livingstone Safari Lodge & Spa in Zambia, Tinga Private Game Lodge in Kruger and Le Franschhoek Hotel & Spa in the Winelands.”

It is with much excitement that Queensgate Hotels & Leisure announce their latest pioneering development, Upper East Side Hotel.

Whilst Cape Town is abuzz with numerous 5 star hotels dotting the city limits, Upper East Side is a unique development that will appeal to the mid-market segment. Located in Woodstock, in the heart of one of Cape Town’s oldest and most colourful neighbourhoods, Upper East Side Hotel will remain true to the area’s character. In keeping with the history and tradition of Woodstock, merchant services such as tailoring, dress making etc. will be offered to guests and local residents.

The mixed-use hotel is more than 11 500 square metres in size with an additional 2 500 square metres of retail space including 1000 parking bays. The 176 room hotel, complete with 8 conferencing rooms will also feature 15 club suites for the discerning business traveller with separate concierge services.

Friday 9 October 2009 saw the highly anticipated Three Cities golf day taking place at The Royal Durban Golf Club, where golfing and enthusiasm joined hands to raise funds for two very deserving charities. Golf, good times and great skill was the name of the game.

The Three Cities charity golf day is run annually in support of preferred social responsibility partners, who for the past two years have been Child Welfare and the Cape Leopard Trust charities.

Three Cities Management Limited (“Three Cities”) today announced that they have entered into an agreement with Queensgate Hotels & Leisure Limited (“Queensgate”). The agreement will see Three Cities taking over the management of all Queensgate Hotels with immediate effect, on a fee sharing basis. The deal will see the Three Cities room stock grow by an additional 600 rooms within 8 hotels and by early 2010 a further 400 rooms - putting the growth at almost 50% over the next 6 months.

Mike Lambert, Chief Operating Officer of Three Cities commented, “We are excited about the long term opportunities that this reciprocal agreement brings. Our alliance will enable us to capitalise on each other’s strengths and focus on core competencies, where we look forward to developing internationally and growing our local destinations.”

Another opportunity will see Three Cities offering the hospitality industry training in world class Spa operations, based on Queensgate’s One Wellness Spa Division, this will be offered by Three Cities educational training division The International Hotel School.

The second phase of the symbiotic relationship will see Three Cities hand over its hotel development opportunities to Queensgate Business Development, a subsidiary of Queensgate. This will effectively mean that all business development for both groups will be handled by Queensgate, being a core competency of theirs.

Three Cities Group manages and markets over 40 quality tourism and leisure properties. Their unique portfolios of properties include City Hotels, Resorts, Exceptional Safaris and the Exceptional Collection, as well as three campuses of The International Hotel School, an Equestrian Academy and the largest Marine Theme Park in Africa – uShaka Marine World in Durban. Their highly regarded services will give the Queensgate hotel portfolio the management expertise, sales, marketing and online reservations, resulting in building the Queensgate individual properties reputation in the market place.

Queensgate Hotels and Leisure CEO, Andrew Hubbard, comments: “We are excited about this agreement which will not only see our hotels managed by the exceptional Three Cities, but also transfer reservations for our hotels to Three Cities’ sophisticated online reservation service which will enhance our customers’ experience. In addition, the link with Three Cities will strengthen the position of Queensgate hotels in the corporate, government and domestic sector, an area in which Three Cities has traditionally been and is very strong.”

The Queensgate portfolio being managed by Three Cities include the following:

• Rockwell All Suite Hotel inspired by buildings from the turn of the last century in downtown Manhattan, New York, this 4 star executive apartment hotel displays an inherent richness and warmth in 55 apartments.
• Shelley Point Hotel, Country Club & Spa is nestled on the silvery white sands of lush green Peninsula Village of Shelley Point, on the Western Cape coastline. This 4 star, 80 room hotel is situated approximately 90 minutes from Cape Town.
• The Avenue Hotel was established in 1936, the 4 star Hotel is situated on the False Bay coastline in the small town of Fish Hoek and offers 51 en-suite rooms.
• The Alphen Hotel is a National Monument, a historic 21 room Country Manor House which offers more than just accommodation. It is the heart of a former Wine Estate, centrally situated in the Peninsula and at the gateway of the Constantia Valley and Wine Route.
• Tinga Private Game Lodge situated on the banks for the Sabi River in prime game viewing area of the Kruger National Park. This 5 Star lodge is located near Skukuza and has 18 chalets in 2 Camps.