A proud milestone for the region, this first-of-its-kind initiative comprised five thematic categories reflecting the essence of Stellenbosch as a destination. Following an overwhelming response of over 90 submissions across three age divisions (7-18, 19-65, and 66+), official winners were announced at the official awards ceremony on 19 June, with each receiving R10,000 in prize money:

Taste 
Culinary culture, food artisans, markets, and local produce 
Amdanda Miti | Coffee Cafe Caffeine | Mixed Medium

Wine 
Vineyards, harvest, cellars, heritage estates, and wine lifestyle 
Sheulyn Raine Hobbs | Sips of Stellenbosch | Mixed Medium

Stay 
Hospitality, architecture, boutique hotels, and guesthouses 
Jared Christopher Delport | Stellenbosch Dutch | Oil Pastels

Experience 
Festivals, cycling, hiking, university life, and the arts 
Judith A Hapgood | Crag and Bone | Acrylic

Community 
The people of Stellenbosch, their diversity, heritage, and shared stories 
Beatrice de Villiers | Church Street | Mixed Medium

Considering the exceptionally high calibre of submissions, the judging panel introduced an additional award to recognise outstanding work:

Judges Award: 
Jade Lubbe | Kuluntu | Acrylic

Art of Origin Stellenbosch submissions closed on Monday, 25 May, with official judging completed on 3 June. Each submission was evaluated independently by a distinguished panel of five judges:

• Ashley Walters, Fine Arts Coordinator at Stellenbosch University’s Visual Arts Department
• Andi Norton, Strategic Management Consultant (Art and Education); Founder of KickstART; Trustee of the Stellenbosch Outdoor Sculpture Trust and Stellenbosch Art Mile
• Jett Jooste (“Theytjie”), Multidisciplinary Artist, Photographer, Filmmaker, Visual Artist and Photography Lecturer at Stellenbosch Academy of Design and Photography
• Dr Mike Mavura, Visual Arts Curator, Cultural Strategist, Educator and Director of Pamurove Foundation
• Xenia van der Meulen, Destination Marketing Manager at Spier; Art Project and Exhibition Advocate

Following the awards, Annemie Liebenberg, Chief Executive Officer of Visit Stellenbosch, highlighted the transformative power of the initiative on their community: “Beyond the competition itself, Art of Origin has fostered curiosity and connection across the town, encouraging deeper dialogue between residents and visitors from different generations and backgrounds.”

Coert Venter, Chairman of the Art Association Stellenbosch, added: “Art of Origin has achieved what we set out to do: to open the door to every generation and every corner of our community. The diversity and quality of submissions speak to the extraordinary creative heartbeat of this town. Art, at its core, invites us to slow down and look more carefully. To be present in a moment that might otherwise pass us by. This truth sits at the heart of Art of Origin, and at the heart of Stellenbosch itself.”

Liebenberg urges the public to view the exhibition, comprising over 90 artworks, at the PJ Olivier Art Centre until 25 June. “Go experience it for yourself. This is just the beginning of what we hope will become a cherished annual tradition that continues to elevate and celebrate Stellenbosch’s artists,” she concluded.

The winning artworks will feature in the 2027 Visit Stellenbosch Visitors Guide, sharing the essence of Stellenbosch with travellers across the globe and positioning the town as a destination brimming with unexpected firsts and unforgettable moments. For those wishing to acquire any of the exhibited pieces (excluding the winning artworks), please contact the Stellenbosch Art Association at admin@stellenboschkuns.co.za.

Preferred Hotels & Resorts, the world’s largest independent hotel brand representing more than 625 luxury hotels, resorts, and residences across 80 countries, is strengthening its presence across Africa with continued strategic expansion. The announcement comes against a backdrop of significant regional momentum, with the brand recording a 32% increase in bookings, a 55% rise in room nights, 73% growth in revenue, and a 12% increase in average daily rate across its African portfolio year-on-year. 

The brand’s regional portfolio now spans 37 member properties across nine countries – South Africa, Kenya, Morocco, Egypt, Equatorial Guinea, Tanzania, Mauritius, Madagascar, and Ghana. 

“Africa remains a priority growth market for our brand, and the numbers reflect that,” said Saurabh Rai, Executive Vice President, South Asia, Middle East & Africa at Preferred Hotels & Resorts. “We are seeing sustained, meaningful demand across key African destinations, driven by international travellers seeking longer, more experience-led stays. Our continued expansion is a direct response to that demand, and we are committed to deepening our footprint through partnerships that champion the very best of independent African luxury.”

Building on strong momentum from 2025, Preferred Hotels & Resorts has expanded its African portfolio with the addition of 11 new properties between Q4 2025 and Q1 2026. That includes two new hotel launches in Zanzibar and South Africa and five luxury Nile River cruise experiences in Egypt, representing the largest single period of portfolio growth the brand has seen in Africa in many years. 

Growth in the region is being seen across various destinations, with South Africa, particularly Cape Town and Kruger National Park, continuing to see strong demand from international leisure and luxury travellers alongside a steady recovery in the MICE segment. East Africa is recording growth in safari and experiential travel, with increased interest from European and North American markets, while the Indian Ocean Islands continue to see consistent demand for luxury beach extensions, frequently combined with safari itineraries. 

Expansion of Preferred Hotels & Resorts’ prestigious Legend Collection also remains central to this strategy, with five standout properties across the continent, including Kasbah Tamadot in Morocco, Finch Hattons Luxury Safari Camp and Mahali Mzuri in Kenya, and Mont Rochelle and Ulusaba in South Africa. 

“We are proud to showcase Africa’s diversity through an exceptional portfolio of independent hotels,” added Celeste Vogel, Account Director for Africa at Preferred Hotels & Resorts. “Each new member brings a distinctive perspective on luxury, deeply rooted in local culture and authentic experiences. For travel agents across the region, this expanded portfolio, backed by dedicated on-the-ground support, competitive commission structures, and the full weight of Preferred’s global sales and marketing network, represents a genuine opportunity to offer their clients something truly differentiated.”

New Member Additions Across Africa (Q4 2025 – Q1 2026):

• ENVI Paje (Zanzibar, Tanzania) – Lifestyle Collection: Set to open in June on Zanzibar’s serene southeast coast, ENVI Paje is a design-forward eco-lodge blending barefoot luxury with holistic wellbeing. Centred on vitality, stillness, and connection, the retreat offers 22 nature-immersed villas, ocean-led dining, and a spa rooted in ancient and modern practices.  
• Lion in the Sun Boutique Hotel & Spa (Malindi, Kenya) – Lifestyle Collection: Nestled along Kenya’s Indian Ocean coastline, this boutique retreat offers just 16 rooms and suites, delivering a highly personalised, slow-living experience centred on wellness and connection with Swahili charm. Guests can unwind at the spa, enjoy locally inspired dining, or explore curated experiences from beachside relaxation to safaris and cultural excursions. 
• Last Word Makanyane (Madikwe, South Africa) – Lifestyle Collection: Located within Madikwe Game Reserve, this exclusive new lodge will open on 1 July. Featuring eight luxury river-facing suites, guests can enjoy exceptional game viewing, including the Big Five, with twice-daily drives. Blending traditional South African design with modern comfort, the lodge offers gourmet dining and immersive nature encounters. The property joins five additional Last Word properties within the Preferred Hotels & Resorts portfolio across South Africa.
• Owloon Manor House (Paarl, South Africa) – Residences Collection: Situated in the heart of the Cape Winelands, Owloon Manor House offers a refined private residence experience designed for unhurried immersive stays. This exclusive-use estate comprises an eight-bedroom en-suite manor house and a separate two-bedroom heritage cottage, where timeless architecture meets contemporary comfort. Set amongst vineyards and orchards, the estate offers curated experiences such as private chef dining, bespoke wellness treatments, and outdoor pursuits including tennis, swimming, walking, and cycling, creating a deeply private and tailored escape in one of South Africa’s most evocative landscapes. 
• Yellowwood Cottage (Langebaan, South Africa) – Residences Collection: Set within the protected landscape of the West Coast National Park overlooking the lagoon, Yellowwood Cottage offers a rare off-grid coastal escape in the quiet hamlet of Churchhaven. This exclusive use-home features three en-suite bedrooms, along with a dedicated bunk-bedded children’s room with separate bathroom. Open-plan spaces and indoor–outdoor living frame uninterrupted views, with days shaped by immersion in the surrounding landscape – wildlife and birdwatching, paddleboarding, and stargazing. Personalised services are available on request, supporting a private retreat defined by seclusion, connection, and understated coastal beauty.
• Coral Sea Holiday Resort, Encora Collection (Sharm El Sheikh, Egypt) – Lifestyle Collection: A vibrant Red Sea beachfront resort, Coral Sea Holiday Resort combines upscale comfort with family-friendly energy. With 484 rooms, including swim-up options, it caters to all travel styles. Highlights include a lively aqua park, diverse international dining, and a full-service wellness centre. Guests can enjoy activities ranging from sports and entertainment to kids’ programs, making it a dynamic destination for both relaxation and adventure.
• Encora Collection Cruises (Egypt) – Lifestyle Collection: This collection introduces five exceptional Nile cruise experiences, blending Red Sea resort elegance with immersive river journeys. Guests can choose between the contemporary Mazaj MS Tamr and Mazaj MS Tulip, or the more intimate dahabiyas, Mazaj Sia, Mazaj Seba, and Mazaj Meroot, each offering personalised service, refined dining, spa facilities, and curated itineraries between Luxor and Aswan. 

Preferred Hotels & Resorts’ commitment to the African market extends beyond its growing portfolio. The brand’s Africa-based team, including Celeste Vogel, Account Director for Africa; Kimon de Zeeuw, Manager of Hotel Revenue Optimisation; and Francois Joubert, Senior Manager of Sales for Africa, provides dedicated on-the-ground support for both hotel partners and travel agents across the region. This includes training, sales support, assistance with client requests and conversions, and access to Preferred’s global sales and centralised reservation channels. Agent partners also benefit from inclusion in regional campaigns, roadshows, trade activations, and global initiatives designed to drive visibility and demand, with the brand maintaining an active presence at key industry events across the continent throughout 2026, including Africa’s Travel Indaba in May, a Southern Africa Roadshow across Namibia, Botswana, and Zimbabwe in June, and a West Africa Showcase in Lagos in September. 

The boutique travel event, held at the Norval Foundation in Cape Town, recorded a 37% increase in attendance compared to 2025, with 87% of buyers attending for the first time, drawn from 32 countries. Appointments increased by 29% year-on-year, reflecting a surge in commercial intent from luxury buyers actively seeking African experiences.

The results are striking given the broader context of global uncertainty. According to the newly released State of African Tourism 2026 report, the continent is successfully “selling certainty in an anxious world.” Because high-end safaris and luxury itineraries are typically booked 12 to 18 months in advance, and demand for established destinations remains resolute, the region’s tourism industry is not expected to be materially affected by ongoing disruptions in the Middle East. Instead, discerning luxury travellers are increasingly looking to Africa not as an alternative, but as a trusted destination of first choice.

Africa’s hotel development pipeline tells its own story: with 55% of the entire continental pipeline currently under construction, investor confidence in African luxury hospitality is at an historic high. The infrastructure is being built, and ILTM Africa’s record buyer numbers suggest the demand is ready to meet it.

The 87% new buyer figure is perhaps the most telling statistic of all. As the State of African Tourism report highlights, the post-pandemic “revenge travel” wave has crashed, replaced by a more informed, discerning traveller for whom trust is the new currency. This influx of new buyers suggests that ILTM Africa is actively converting these new markets, translating directly into fresh commercial pipelines and relationships for exhibitors that did not exist twelve months ago. Carol Weaving, Managing Director of RX Africa, the organiser behind ILTM Africa, noted: “The travel sector has always been a people industry selling high-value, high-stakes experiences. Africa Travel Week has evolved into a powerful in-person event where technology handles the heavy lifting, and humans focus on the relationship building that defines this industry.”

Table of Contents

STELLENBOSCH, SOUTH AFRICA – Stellenbosch has launched Art of Origin Stellenbosch, a town-wide art competition and exhibition bringing together every generation and creative community in the region for the very first time. Organised by Visit Stellenbosch in partnership with the Art Association Stellenbosch, the initiative is open to all: primary and high school learners, university students, emerging and established artists, township collectives, community groups, and creatives from the town’s senior living communities. Submissions are accepted across all mediums and across three age divisions: 7 to 18, 19 to 65, and 66 and above.

Winning artworks will be featured in the 2027 Visit Stellenbosch Visitors Guide, distributed to over one million prospective visitors worldwide, giving Stellenbosch’s artists international exposure on a scale rarely accessible to emerging or community-based creatives. Five thematic category winners will each receive R10,000 in prize money, with one artwork selected for the front cover of the guide. Submitted works will be exhibited at the PJ Olivier Art Centre, and the official opening and winners’ celebration will take place on 4 June 2026, followed by a public exhibition running from 4 to 25 June 2026.

“Stellenbosch has always been a creative town. But Art of Origin is something we have never done before, an open invitation to every artist, school, community collective, and resident of our senior living communities in our town to tell its story in their own voice. More than an art competition, this is a cultural movement,” said Annemie Liebenberg, CEO of Visit Stellenbosch

“This is a moment that belongs to every artist in Stellenbosch, not just the established ones,” agreed Mr Coert Venter, Chairman of the Art Association Stellenbosch. “Art of Origin is the first initiative of its kind in this town, one that genuinely opens the door to every generation and community. We’re bringing our community together by inviting a child from a Stellenbosch school, a township artist, and a painter from a senior home to all hang their work in the same exhibition.  That is the Stellenbosch we want the world to see.”

A Creative First for Stellenbosch

Art of Origin Stellenbosch is one of the most tangible expressions of Visit Stellenbosch’s new destination-wide brand positioning, Unexpected Firsts. Unforgettable Moments, and forms part of this expansive initiative celebrating innovation and milestone moments across the town. While rooted in this broader vision, Art of Origin stands as a distinctive cultural initiative in its own right, designed to leave a permanent creative and tourism legacy for Stellenbosch and the artists who call it home.

Artists are invited to submit original works across five thematic categories that reflect the heart of Stellenbosch:

• Taste: Culinary culture, food artisans, markets, and local produce
• Wine: Vineyards, harvest, cellars, heritage estates, and wine lifestyle
• Stay: Hospitality, architecture, boutique hotels, and guesthouses
• Experience: Festivals, cycling, hiking, university life, and the arts
• Community: The people of Stellenbosch and their diversity, heritage, and shared stories

Artists may enter across more than one theme, with each submission judged independently. All mediums are welcome, including painting, drawing, mixed media, digital art, and collage.

Important Dates

• Judging Session: Wednesday, 3 June 2026 | 14:00 – 18:00
• Location: PJ Olivier Art Centre, 3 Blom Road, Stellenbosch
• Soft Opening (First Thursdays): Thursday, 4 June 2026 | 17:00 – 20:00
• Exhibition Dates: 4 June – 25 June 2026 (Open to the public)
• Awards Evening (Winners Announced): Thursday, 18 June 2026

For submission guidelines, entry forms, and further information, contact: admin@stellenboschkuns.co.za or 079 084 6183

As the gap widens between ‘marketing sustainability’ and ‘operational reality,’ these awards identify the trailblazers who are turning responsible tourism principles into measurable, scalable business assets.

Important Dates and Entry Information

• Entry Deadline: 17 April 2026
• Awards Ceremony: 22 June 2026 at Experience Africa, London
• Cost: Free to enter
• Limit: Applicants may enter a maximum of two categories.

Following a surge in high-calibre entries in 2025, the 2026 programme retains its ten established categories spanning the full spectrum of regenerative travel, from marine conservation and climate innovation to community empowerment and ethical storytelling. This is a deliberate strategic move. By keeping the criteria consistent, ATTA® is establishing a year-on-year yardstick.

Chris Mears, CEO of ATTA Group Events, explained the shift in expectation:

“By keeping our categories consistent, we are challenging the industry to show us progress. We want to see how last year’s emerging ideas have become this year’s business models. An initiative might look good on paper, but we need to question how it actually changes a life, contributes to saving a species, or alters a supply chain. We encourage all organisations to enter, from small eco-lodges to major operators. If you have a blueprint that works, the industry needs to see, model, and celebrate it.” 

Nigel Vere-Nicoll, ATTA® Honorary President, emphasised that these awards are designed to separate those sayingthe right things from those doing the hard work.

“Africa is setting itself apart as a world leader in regenerative tourism, and these awards are the mechanism by which we validate that claim.” 

The awards apply a double check process on scoring with a selected group of judges. “We have assembled a judging panel that combines historical industry knowledge with the fresh, uncompromising perspective of young changemakers,” added Vere-Nicoll.  

“Beyond recognition, these awards provide a platform for organisations to position themselves as leaders in the eyes of international buyers actively seeking purpose-led partners. Entering is an opportunity to validate their team’s hard work on a global stage,” Vere-Nicoll concluded. 

To enter and view full criteria, visit: https://awards.atta.travel/

For further information please contact: chris@attagroup.events

ABOUT ATTA®

ATTA® (The African Travel and Tourism Association) is the leading pan-African trade association promoting tourism to Africa and the Indian Ocean islands. Known as the “Voice of African Tourism,” ATTA® serves over 900 member businesses, including accommodation providers, tour operators, and travel specialists. It provides accurate industry news, hosts networking events and trade shows, and delivers valuable member training and resources. For more information, visit atta.travel.

Join the ATTA® Media Network to gain access to news about tourism in Africa, access to spokespeople and thought leaders and other media benefits. Email media@atta.travel for details.

About ATTA Group Events:

ATTA Group Events is the foremost platform for connecting African suppliers with top international buyers at various shows. Promoting an expansive range of travel products and unique experiences from across Africa, ATTA Group Events hosts B2B events that are not just a meeting ground but a catalyst for forging essential industry connections, making these #ThePlaceToConnect for the African tourism industry.

Aurum Africa will offer experiential guided experiences and journey logistics across southern Africa. The company launches with forty team members, twenty-five of whom are immediate shareholders selected for their experience, their dedication and their long-standing service in tourism.

Speaking at the company’s official launch event at Heirloom Restaurant in Cape Town’s Cape Grace Hotel, Baba outlined his vision for genuine transformation in an industry that has struggled with meaningful change for three decades.

“After 30 years in this industry, I refuse to pay lip service to transformation anymore,” said Baba during his keynote address. “True transformation isn’t about compliance scorecards or token gestures. I’m determined that Aurum Africa will stand as proof that true empowerment is possible when you trust your people with real ownership, not just promises.”

Baba adds: “Transformation must be lived every day through our actions; it cannot remain rhetoric. Our guests deserve experiences shaped by people who are truly invested, not just employees but owners who benefit directly from success.”

The move comes as traditional owner-managed tourism businesses are increasingly sold off to corporates or international investors – a trend that often leads to job losses and lost local knowledge. By contrast, Aurum Africa aims to set a new benchmark for succession planning and sustainable growth rooted in local talent.

“For too long, our industry has been owned by the few while the many who actually create the magic for our guests remain on the sidelines,” Baba continued. “This has to change if we’re serious about building a tourism sector that truly serves South Africa’s people and communities. We want every traveller who books with us to know their tourism spend is directly supporting South African families and communities.”

Shareholder Shadley Basadien, who spoke about “The Aurum Journey” at tonight’s launch, emphasised the personal impact of the ownership model: “When you own part of the business you’re building, every guest interaction, every tour, every success becomes personal. That’s what creates exceptional experiences.”

Director Thokozani Mdluli, who officially launched the company alongside Baba, highlighted the broader industry implications: “Aurum Africa demonstrates how tourism transformation can actually work when we move beyond tokenism toward real equity sharing.”

The launch event, attended by industry leaders and featuring opening remarks from SATSA CEO David Frost, positioned Aurum Africa as the first of multiple ventures planned under this shared ownership philosophy.

Aurum Africa plans steady expansion over the next two years while sharing its inclusive model as a blueprint for replication across the wider travel sector.

ENDS

For further information or interview requests, please contact Celine Patterson: celine@bigambitions.coza  / 071 899 3780.

One of the world’s most remote inhabited islands has triumphed on the global stage as St Helena Tourism’s breathtaking film Come and Find Me won the Gold Award in the Tourism Destination (International) category at the prestigious International Tourism Film Festival Africa (ITFFA) in Sandton on 6 June.

This achievement follows the film’s earlier success in Japan, where it received a Director’s Choice special award at the Japan World’s Tourism Film Festival (JWTFF).

Jonathan Passaportis, Head of Tourism for St Helena, said: “Winning gold at ITFFA was a special moment for everyone involved in the production – and well-deserved recognition for the director Darren Peens, who attended the ceremony with actress Katie-Raye Williams. We’re thrilled!”

For Passaportis, Come and Find Me showcases what makes St Helena Island so special, including its unique natural heritage, adventurous activities, and bucket-list appeal.

“The film represents a bold departure from traditional tourism marketing, using narrative-driven storytelling to captivate audiences and celebrate the wonders of St Helena, for example, the rugged coastline, stunning landscapes, marine life – including the island’s famous whale sharks, known locally as “bone sharks” – history, and cultural appeal,” says Passaportis. “We hope this award will introduce St Helena Island to new audiences, eco-conscious travellers, and those looking for an adventure unlike any other.”

ITFFA, now in its 7th year, has established itself as the premier tourism film festival in Africa, receiving over 4,000 film entries from 94 countries since its inception. The festival celebrates how film tourism drives economic growth and destination appeal, with a focus on how high-profile productions contribute to job creation and increased tourism arrivals.

For St Helena, an island of just 47 square miles in the South Atlantic with a population of approximately 4,000 locals, this victory over entries from much larger (and more accessible) destinations reinforces its growing reputation for off-the-beaten-path journeys and remarkable natural wonders.

“This gold award shows that St Helena‘s unique character and location are exactly what makes us shine on the global stage,” added Passaportis. “We invite travellers to come and find us – and experience what St Helena Island has to offer.”

Video link Come and Find Me: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ATenzRrnCJc

For more information about the award or St Helena Island, or to explore interview opportunities, please contact sthelena@bigambitions.co.za.

The exclusive breakfast session, held at Proud Mary Modern Eatery + Wine Bar in Rosebank, brought together key South African media representatives for an insightful discussion on Seychelles’ future developments and upcoming major events.

During the session, Mrs. Francis unveiled several landmark initiatives, including new luxury hotel developments, an extensive collection of boutique properties and small homegrown products, as well as the new Seychelles Tourism Grading Programme, reinforcing Seychelles’ commitment to maintaining its position as a premier holiday destination.

Among the key highlights of the presentation were discussions surrounding Seychelles’ sporting calendar for the year ahead. Mrs. Francis provided details regarding the upcoming FIFA Beach Soccer World Cup, alongside signature events such as the Seychelles Sailing Challenge and the Seychelles Nature Trail, positioning the destination as a hub for world-class sporting events.  

The Tourism Seychelles team also seized the opportunity to generate excitement for the upcoming 40th Festival Kreol in October 2025. Mrs. Francis mentioned that the country is committed to ensuring it remains one of the most iconic events on the Seychelles socio-cultural calendar every year, making sure to engage visitors and keep the festival top of mind.

“Our engagement with the South African media market is crucial as we continue to strengthen our presence in this key region,” said Mrs. Francis. “The exciting developments and events planned for 2025 will enhance our tourism offering while creating significant opportunities for cultural exchange and economic growth in our islands.”

The briefing also showcased new cultural experiences designed to offer visitors authentic encounters with Seychellois heritage, responding to the growing demand for meaningful travel experiences.

This media engagement forms part of Tourism Seychelles’ broader strategy to maintain strong relationships with key market partners and ensure consistent, high-quality communication about the destination’s offerings and developments.

Tourism Seychelles anticipates that these initiatives will contribute significantly to the destination’s appeal, particularly in the South African market, which remains a vital source of visitors for the islands.

– The South African Roadshow includes meetings, training sessions, a hosted dinner, a ship visit on Norwegian Dawn, and an introduction to NCL Connect – the company’s new marketing platform for the travel community.

Johannesburg – 16 January, 2024 – Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL), the innovator in global cruise travel, will introduce NCL Connect, a new co-branded marketing solution specifically designed for the travel partner community, on a South African Roadshow this week.

Kevin Bubolz, Vice President & Managing Director Continental Europe, Middle East & Africa, and Nirosha Sidat, NCL Country Manager South Africa, will host sessions with key partners – including a tour of Norwegian Dawn in Cape Town – to share the latest updates from NCL.

“Not only is South Africa fast-establishing itself as a world-class destination for cruise ships, but the South African market is increasingly interested in cruising, with the demand for cruise holidays and expedition cruises soaring,” says Sidat. “Our new More at Sea™ package meets this demand, enhancing the cruise experience with unlimited beverage packages, specialty dining, Wi-Fi packages and incredible shore excursions. When it comes to both our guests and partners, we’re committed to being the easiest cruise line to engage with, and as part of our longstanding ‘Partners First’ philosophy, we’re thrilled not only to be meeting our trade partners in person – but that we’re able to offer them an exciting new platform to grow their cruising business!”

NCL Connect is a tightly integrated marketing solution where travel partners can instantaneously co-brand digital content – pre-designed by NCL’s in-house marketing team – that offers their clients an immersive look into cruising with Norwegian Cruise Line. It offers travel agents and advisors the opportunity to leverage a co-branded website complete with NCL sailings for clients to explore while driving leads directly back to the travel advisor.

The new platform complements NCL’s robust Marketing Headquarters with 800+ ready-to-use or customisable assets such as videos, flyers and more. NCL Connect offers an extra level of marketing support available to travel advisors that provides instant, personalised co-branded content in just one click. The content is then easily shared via all social media, email, and other marketing media channels, with additional digital experiences introduced on an ongoing basis throughout the year.

“Our goal in terms of trade marketing in 2025 is clear: make it personal, make it impactful, and most importantly, make it easy for travel advisors,” says Sidat. “We’re bringing the full weight of our in-house marketing expertise to the table but packaged in a way which makes it easy for travel advisors to take full advantage. Promoting, selling and booking an NCL cruise has never been simpler. I know advisors are going to love it.”

NCL Connect, which is powered by technology from Approach Guides, will be introduced in Cape Town from 15-17 January and in Johannesburg from 20-21 January 2025. 

-Ends-

About Norwegian Cruise Line

As the innovator in global cruise travel, Norwegian Cruise Line has been breaking the boundaries of traditional cruising for 58 years. Most notably, the cruise line revolutionised the industry by offering guests the opportunity to design their ideal vacation on their preferred schedule with no assigned dining and entertainment times and no formal dress codes. Today, the company offers guests to ‘Experience More at Sea’ by providing them with more to see, more to do, more to enjoy, and more value on their vacation. To further deliver guests with more value, NCL’s ‘More At Sea™’ package provides added benefits and inclusions such as unlimited open bar; specialty dining credits; high-speed Wi-Fi; shore excursions credits; as well as free airfare and third and fourth guests sail free on select sailings. Its fleet of 19 contemporary ships sail to 450 of the world’s most desirable destinations, including Great Stirrup Cay, the company’s private island in the Bahamas and its resort destination Harvest Caye in Belize. Norwegian Cruise Line not only provides superior guest service from land to sea, but also offers a wide variety of award-winning entertainment and dining options as well as a range of accommodations across the fleet, including solo-traveler staterooms, club balcony suites, and The Haven by Norwegian®, the company’s ship-within-a-ship concept.

For additional information or to book a cruise, contact a travel professional, contact a travel professional, call 021 200 6586 or visit www.ncl.com. For the latest news and exclusive content, visit the NCL Newsroom and follow Norwegian Cruise Line on Facebook, Instagram, Tik Tok and YouTube @NorwegianCruiseLine; and Twitter @CruiseNorwegian. 

Norwegian Cruise Line is a wholly owned subsidiary of Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings Ltd. To learn more, visit www.nclhltd.com.   

NCL Media Contact

PublicRelations@ncl.com

Locally Issued By:

Celine Patterson | Big Ambitions | celine@bigambitions.co.za

Coming to life as more than just a place to stay, Hyde Johannesburg Rosebank showcases local music with gigs and DJ sets capturing the energy of the neighbourhood’s social scene. Following hot on the heels of Hyde London City’s opening, this property marks another milestone in Hyde Hotels’ global expansion. From its beginnings as an LA nightlife pioneer in 2005, Hyde has evolved to stand for community, creativity and that unmistakable laid-back luxe feeling.

At the heart of the transformation by Oniro Studios, is a striking new art collection that puts Joburg’s emerging creative talent in the spotlight. The reception area invites guests into the bold world of Hyde with a show-stopping wall tapestry by Liz Groble and boho-inspired lighting, bringing warmth, texture and pattern to the space. Hyde’s signature endless sofa completes the lobby, set against the backdrop of a 6m long bespoke screen with over 1,200 handmade ceramic beads.

Other artworks by rising stars such as Githan Coopoo and Hanna Noor Mahomed inject vibrancy throughout the public spaces. Guests can expect ceramic totems by Paloma standing proud in the corridors, while beaded vases from Ananta x Monkeybiz and statement pieces like Water Dixon’s gradient mirrors and Studio Kalki’s custom pieces demand Instagramworthy attention.

Guest rooms have been updated to create a serene escape for guests, blending neutral textures with earthy tones and bold patterns creating a perfect balance of comfort and style. Each room is home to a try-on wall which offers guests the opportunity to complete their outfit with items such as beautiful glass beads and woven fans. Bathrooms have been splashed with colour and pattern, creating a festival inspired, summer feel throughout.

“This makeover really captures our vision for Hyde Johannesburg Rosebank,” says Jessica Redinger, General Manager at Hyde Johannesburg Rosebank. “From our try-it-on wall showcasing local makers to our boho bathrobes and custom-curated playlists, every corner has been reimagined to bring people together. It’s that festival feeling that runs through all Hyde properties, but with a distinct South African soul. We wanted to create somewhere for visitors and locals to enjoy – whether you’re here for a power meeting, sundowners, or a weekend staycation.”

Existing eatery, Proud Mary, is one of Johannesburg’s most beloved spots for all-day dining and wine bar vibes. Looking ahead to 2025, Hyde Johannesburg Rosebank will expand its food and beverage offering with a show-stopping summer terrace. Building on Proud Mary’s established popularity, this new al fresco space will add another dimension to Rosebank’s social scene, creating the perfect backdrop for all occasions, from energising brunches to sunset cocktails.

For the business crowd, there’s seamless access to Workshop17’s slick co-working setup, complete with hot desks, private offices and meeting rooms. Guests looking for space to recharge or work out, can also take advantage of 24/7 complimentary access to the multistudio fitness suite during their stay.

The Hyde Hotel offers an excellent gym that makes it easy for guests to maintain their fitness routines while traveling for both work and leisure. Whether you’re looking to stay in shape during a business trip or keep active while enjoying some time off, the gym provides state-ofthe-art equipment, a clean and motivating environment, and plenty of space to work out.

This opening represents another step in Ennismore’s expansion across Africa. As one of the world’s largest and fastest-growing lifestyle hospitality companies, Ennismore continues to bring its pioneering vision of hospitality to new markets, with Hyde Johannesburg Rosebank joining its collective of brands that are redefining modern hospitality through authentic local experiences and creative design.

Hyde Johannesburg Rosebank is part of Dis-loyalty, Ennismore’s game-changing travel and food membership. Dis-loyalty brings together more than 100 hotels and 175 restaurants and bars from 10 globally renowned brands, including The Hoxton, Mama Shelter, Mondrian and SLS. Amongst other benefits, members receive access to 50% off newly opened hotels within The Dis-loyalty Collective, meaning guests can enjoy half-price rates at Hyde Johannesburg from 4th December 2024 – 4th March 2025. Find out more about all the membership perks at Dis-loyalty.com

OPEN NOW
24 Cradock Ave, Rosebank
@hydehotels | Bookings