Proposal to Host the
8th International
Aquarium Congress
9-14 September 2012
Cape Town, South Africa
CAPE TOWN
& Western Cape
www.tourismcapetown.co.za
Proposal to Host the
8th International
Aquarium Congress
9-14 September 2012
Cape Town, South Africa
TABLE OF CONTENTS
1 INVITATION TO HOST THE 8TH INTERNATIONAL AQUARIUM CONGRESS 9 -14 SEPTEMBER 2012
2 ENDORSEMENTS
3 OVERVIEW: TWO OCEANS AQUARIUM, YOUR HOST AQUARIUM
4 OVERVIEW: SOUTH AFRICA, YOUR HOST COUNTRY
5 OVERVIEW: CAPE TOWN, YOUR HOST CITY
• Top Tourist Attractions
6 THE CONFERENCE, LOGISTICAL SUPPORT
• Travel To Cape Town
• Infrastructure Support
• Flights to and from South Africa
• Accommodation in Cape Town
• Accompanying persons Programmes: Day Tours
• Social Programme
7 THE VENUE: THE CAPE TOWN INTERNATIONAL CONVENTION CENTRE
8 PRE-AND POST TOURS
9 CONCLUSION
your host aquarium
The mission of the Two Oceans Aquarium is to remain a financially viable and prominent
visitor attraction in the Western Cape, in order to continue to raise ocean awareness
through our quality exhibits, our conservation programmes and our education outreach.
Further, we aim to:
• become one of the leading environmental education centres in the southern hemisphere;
• promote conservation and sustainable use of the environment, building public
awareness and promoting advocacy;
• build on our uniqueness;
• be a fun place for the children of today and the children of tomorrow;
• be a place of learning through discovery.
HISTORY AND GENERAL
For many years the people of Cape Town yearned for a new,
modern aquarium that would give them a window into the
wonders of the two mighty oceans that meet at the southen
tip of Africa.
Nothing ever came of their dreams, however, until two
brothers decided to turn their dream into reality. Their
enthusiasm attracted like-minded individuals and soon there
was a small group of highly motivated people scouting for
possible funders. For several years their endeavours bore
no fruit, but their perseverance finally paid off and, in 1994,
Transnet Pension Fund and Norwich Life SA (now Investec
Bank) became partners in the Two Oceans Aquarium.
A team of architects and planners travelled the world and
visited leading aquariums. They returned to Cape Town with
ideas that would suit an aquarium to be built in the Victoria
& Alfred Waterfront. At that time Monterey Bay Aquarium
was considered to be the best in the world and the team
incorporated many of its design features into our facility. In
terms of overall visitor experience, the result was one of the
finest aquarium designs ever produced.
The Two Oceans Aquarium opened in November 1995 and,
whilst it is neither big nor massively impressive by world
standards, its ambience is magical, its exhibits are beautiful
and its staff and volunteers are friendly, enthusiastic and
dedicated. Within a few years of opening, people around
the globe were talking about us and we became a ‘mustsee’ destination in Cape Town.
The Aquarium was built on three cornerstones: excellent
exhibits, innovative education programmes and meaningful
conservation initiatives.
To date the Two Oceans Aquarium has received over 5 million
visitors and we have excelled in the education arena.
Considering that we have, in the year 2007/8, taught 36,600
pupils in our classrooms; visited 17,000 pupils with our
Outreach Unit; received over 10,000 school children on selfguided tours and given courses to thousands of teachers,
technikon and university students, matriculants and ‘young
biologists’, we can be justly proud of our achievements.
There is no doubt that we are contributing significantly to
the upliftment of our communities and that we are playing a
pivotal role in helping the National Department of Education
achieve its goals in environmental education in the region.
We have also conducted exciting work in the fields of
conservation and research.
Our endeavours with ocean sunfishes, finfish culture and most
recently shark conservation have caught the attention of local
and overseas scientists, resulting in some fascinating
collaborative work.
Since opening we have evolved into one of the most attractive
aquariums in the world and we are now a valuable asset to both
the Victoria & Alfred Waterfront and the City of Cape Town.
Some of our more notable events.
’95 •
The City of Cape Town, the original maritime gateway to
southern Africa, is an obvious site for a world-class
aquarium. Few places in the world are in a more favourable
position to feature the rich diversity of life found in two
oceans, particularly in such contrasting oceans as the
Indian and Atlantic. After eight years of research and 18
months of construction, the long-awaited Two Oceans
Aquarium opens on 13 November 1995.
• Longfin tuna Thunnus alalunga and snoek Thyrsites
atun are displayed for the first time in the world.
’96 •
The Minister of Trade and Industry, Trevor Manuel,
officially opens the Two Oceans Aquarium on 10
February 1996.
’97 •
Professor Kader Asmal, the Minister of Water Affairs
and Forestry, opens the Old Mutual Environmental
Education Centre. The Centre has been upgraded over
the years and now boasts two fully equipped wet
laboratories.
• In recognition of fishing company Irvin & Johnson’s
continuing contribution to the upkeep of the animals
in the Aquarium, the largest exhibit, the ‘Open Ocean
Exhibit’, is renamed the ‘I&J Predator Exhibit’.
• The Aquarium’s Adventure Dive Programme is launched
– sport divers take the plunge with our ragged-tooth
sharks, turtles, rays and fishes in the I&J Predator
Exhibit.
’98 •
The Alpha (now Holcim) Activity Centre in the Lower
Seal Gallery is officially opened by the Minister of
Environmental Affairs & Tourism, Pallo Jordan, on 11
June 1998.
• On 2 December 1998 the Strategic Fuel Fund (SFF)
Sunfish Rehabilitation Centre opens. This facility
provides an ideal opportunity to help ocean sunfishes
in distress and to gain much needed knowledge about
these mysterious fishes.
’99 •
The Aquarium opens its first large-scale temporary
exhibit, ‘Fangs’, which features a global collection of
writhing eels and slithery sea creatures, including deadly
sea snakes. A themed experiential attraction reveals
the ‘Guardians of the Lost Oceans’.
• The ‘Fangs’ marketing and advertising campaign claims
the annual Marketing Organisation of the Year Award
presented by the Institute of Marketing Management
(IMM).
’00 •
With generous sponsorship from BoE Limited, visitors
to the Aquarium are given the opportunity to appreciate
the vast size of southern right whales Balaena glacialis
in the form of a skeleton, loaned to the Aquarium by
the Marine Environmental Education Trust.
’01 •
The Sappi Eco-Theatre opens and features a short,
yet powerful cinematographic experience entitled
‘The Web of Life’. We join a young boy on a journey
during which he is reminded that human actions can
have disastrous consequences for our environment.
The presentation ends with the statement ‘If one
person can make a difference, imagine what six billion
of us can do – a thought to take home’.
• On 8 December 2001 the Aquarium opens its second
large-scale temporary exhibit, ‘The Living Dead –
travelled in time, locked in rock’. The exhibit includes
‘living fossils’ such as crocodiles, iguanas and giant
deep-water isopods. Many of the animals on display
have remained virtually unchanged over millions of
years.
• The first African penguin Spheniscus demersus chick
to hatch in the Sappi River Meander Exhibit is tagged
and sent to SANCCOB before being released into the
wild.
’02 •
The first fully equipped wet laboratory opens in the
Old Mutual Environmental Education Centre. This
exciting new facility, complete with aquariums,
terrariums, microscopes and other laboratory
equipment, provides opportunities for hands-on
experiential learning and close inspection of a range
of animals and plants.
• Eighteen smooth-hound sharks Mustelus mustelus
are born in the I&J Predator Exhibit on 17 August
2002.
’04 •
On 18 March 2004 the Aquarium, in collaboration with
AfriOceans Conservation Alliance, releases Maxine,
a large (197kg) ragged-tooth shark Carcharias taurus,
back into the oceans. Maxine is the iconic ambassador
for the Save our Seas Foundation M-Sea (Maxine
Science, Education and Awareness) Programme. With
assistance from South Africa’s leading shark experts,
the M-Sea Programme provides a unique opportunity
to learn more about the lifestyle of ragged-tooth
sharks and to raise public awareness of the plight of
sharks worldwide.
• President Thabo Mbeki and Zanele Dlamini visit the
Aquarium on Christmas Eve.
’05 •
•
•
•
•
’06 •
’03 •
In partnership with the City of Cape Town, the
Aquarium opens the Children’s Puppet Theatre on 10
March 2003. This fully automated three-act marionette
presentation depicts a young boy, Tshepo, who learns
about various water-related dilemmas. Using humour
and music, a cast of vibrant, colourful characters
conveys important environmental messages to the
audience in an unusual and positive manner.
• An African Black Oystercatcher chick Haematopus
moquini hatches in the Sappi River Meander. As far
as we know this is the first time this endangered
species has bred in captivity.
Baroness Margaret Thatcher & the Prince of Denmark
visit the Aquarium in January 2005.
In collaboration with AfriOceans Conservation the
Aquarium releases its second ragged tooth shark, Val,
back into the oceans as part of the ongoing Save our
Seas Foundation MSea Programme entitled “Rethink
the Shark”.
Extensive renovations to accommodate a larger more
defined tropical gallery to differentiate more clearly the
unique features of the Atlantic and Indian Ocean
Galleries.
Start of the sponsored pensioner programme, which
to date has enabled over 5 000 disadvantaged
pensioners to visit the Aquarium for free and the
introduction of the Adopt A School programme enabling
the corporate sector to assist the Aquarium in bringing
in over 11 000 previously disadvantaged school children.
On 13 November 2005 the Aquarium celebrates its
10th birthday in style.
July 2006 marks the beginning of 5 months major
renovations to the East Wing of our building including;
• Opening of the Shoreline Café, our new restaurant with
the first dedicated children’s area in the Waterfront, in
December 2006 under Aquarium management;
• Relocation and complete refurbishment of the Aquarium
Shop by the Tiger’s Eye (Part of the Tourvest Group).
• Relocation of the Membership Centre adjacent to the
new ticket office;
• Several improvements to the Visitor Services desk,
ticket office and foyer to improve visitor flow;
• Establishment of an Adventure Booking Centre to take
eco-tourism bookings for our visitors and the
establishment of a tuck shop to cater to our take away
market.
• Relocation of the City Sightseeing Bus offloading
terminal and establishment of a ticket office directly in
front of the Two Oceans Aquarium which has had a
significantly positive impact on visitation.
“The Two Oceans Aquarium continues to grow from strength
to strength in all its areas of operation and our future is looking
very positive indeed. The recent acquisition of the V&A
Waterfront by London and Regional Properties and Dubai
World will result in a mammoth expansion and upgrading of
the Waterfront and along with this , the Two Oceans Aquarium.
We look forward to hosting our international Aquarium
colleagues in 2012.”
’07 •
Purchase of 65% shareholding held by Transnet pension
Fund of the Two Oceans Aquarium by Waterfront
Holdings.
• Subsequent sale of the Waterfront to London and
Regional and Dubai World and a smaller BEE
consortium in January 2007 includes transfer of this
ownership to new shareholders.
Dr Patrick Garratt
Managing Director
“The living animals that we are able
to see and come to know in
aquariums are ambassadors for
their species. They are messengers
and teachers and, because of
them, I have become an ambassador
for the environment, caring deeply
about the future of natural
populations and delighting in seeing
their kind in the wild.”
Helen Lockhart, Communications Manager, Two Oceans Aquarium
Dwarfed by Giants - A diver feeds one of our giant
stingrays in the I&J Predator Exhibit - a breath-taking sight.
Photo: Geoff Spiby
EXHIBITS AND RESEARCH
Situated in Cape Town, at the southern tip of Africa, the Two
Oceans Aquarium is ideally positioned to showcase the
incredible diversity of marine flora and fauna off the southern
African coast.
Our Exhibits
The Aquarium presents South Africa’s rich ocean and aquatic
life in six galleries, which include the Indian Ocean Hall, the
Atlantic Ocean Hall, the Holcim Activity Centre the Sappi
River Meander; the Kelp Forest Exhibit and the I&J Predator
Exhibit.
The Indian and Atlantic Ocean Halls - a kaleidoscope of
marine life
These Halls introduce to our visitors a kaleidoscope of marine
life. It is here that they come face to face with translucent,
fragile jellies; alien-like giant spider crabs; the shy octopus,
master of camouflage; beautiful, yet venomous devil firefish;
and many other colourful and varied life forms. The exhibits
in these galleries are perpetually changing and, in 2004 alone,
we brought in juvenile ragged-tooth sharks; increased the
size of the Knysna seahorse Hippocampus capensis exhibit;
added juvenile yellowtail Seriola lalandi (hatched from eggs
collected in the I&J Predator Exhibit), and opened ‘Denizens
of the Deep’, which features kingklip, horse fish, jacopevers,
deep-water crabs and spiny lobster. We also introduced
unique exhibits which include acrylic magnifiers in the design.
These displays offer enlarged and sometimes quirky views
of the exhibit inhabitants.
Our volunteers at the Touch Pool and Microscope play a vital
role in the Diversity Hall, providing visitors with fascinating
snippets of ocean information, substantially enhancing the
quality of their visit.
The Holcim Activity Centre – a hive of excitement and
energy
The Centre is always buzzing with the excitement and energy
of children. Their gleeful laughter filters through other areas
of the Aquarium as they are entertained and informed through
puppet shows featuring delightful shark, octopus, penguin,
eel, turtle and sunfish hand puppets. Children are encouraged
to create fishy artworks to take home to their families.
The Sappi River Meander Exhibit – The Story of a River
The Sappi River Meander traces the journey of a pristine river
from its mouth, back through a freshwater reedbed (complete
with a bird-hide), to its origin as a stream high up in the
mountains. Over the years this exhibit has matured into one
of our most inspiring exhibits and now boasts a ten year old
milkwood forest; a breeding colony of African penguins (from
which we have released 13 juveniles into the wild); rockhopper
penguins Eudyptes chrysocome and a wide selection of
freshwater fishes, both indigenous and alien, to our Western
Cape rivers. The recent addition of the bird-hide overlooking
the wetland offers people a place to sit and relax in this
peaceful riverine environment.
The connection between land and sea was identified as a
key component in ocean conservation at the International
Aquarium Congress held in Tokyo in 1996. We have responded
to this challenge in many areas of our operations, including
our interpretative materials. We recently introduced an
impressive 6-metre aerial photograph, housed in the birdhide, of the local Lourens River as it tumbles through the
Hottentots Holland Mountains and then meanders through
the town of Somerset West on its way to False Bay. Here we
emphasise the point that, since all our rivers run to the sea,
whatever we do on land affects the sea.
The Kelp Forest Exhibit – an enchanted forest
Kelp forests are displayed in only two aquariums in the world
- Monterey Bay Aquarium (arguably the best aquarium in the
world) and the Two Oceans Aquarium. In our Aquarium three
species of giant kelp provide shelter for an array of local
fishes which drift amongst the kelp fronds. Our visitors are
mesmerised by the gentle hypnotic sway of the tall kelp plants
and the play of dappled sunlight on silver fishes. Central to
the ‘two oceans’ theme, this enchanting forest remains one
of our biggest draw cards, and many visitors return time and
again to its beauty and tranquility.
I&J Predator Exhibit – a feast of ocean predators
Without a doubt, the most popular animals in the Two Oceans
Aquarium are our large ragged-tooth sharks, housed in the
I&J Predator Exhibit. This two million-litre exhibit also
showcases an impressive collection of predatory fish from
the South African coast. Many of these animals have been
with us since we opened and have grown considerably. The
sharks, which weighed approximately 90kg when they arrived
10 years ago, are now in excess of 200kg and yellowtail and
kob Argyrosomus japonicus in this display have grown to
sizes rarely seen in today’s catches! The sight of a 180kg
stingray swimming up the main window whilst being handfed by a scuba diver is a breath-taking sight which leaves a
lasting impression on our visitors.
Conservation and Research
In addition to our many inspiring exhibits, we are also involved
in a number of conservation and research programmes.
Sunfish
In the early years of the Aquarium we displayed several ocean
sunfish Mola mola in the I&J Predator Exhibit, but always with
limited long-term success. These gentle open ocean giants
feed almost exclusively on jellyfish and can attain over 3m in
length and weigh over 2,000kg. Although we have no sunfish
on display, we remain committed to assisting injured or
OVERVIEW
stranded fish and to contributing to research on these
enigmatic animals. We currently support Dr. Tierney Thys
from Monterey Bay, California, who is conducting research
on sunfish on a global scale. We have supplied her with tissue
samples for DNA analysis, helped her to tag sunfishes in our
waters with satellite tags and collected observer data from
fishing boats. In the future, we plan to increase our involvement
in her research on this fascinating, but little known giant.
Finfish Aquaculture
Several species of fish displayed in the I&J Predator Exhibit,
including kob, yellowtail, geelbek Atractoscion aequidens and
leervis Lichia amia, have spawned naturally in the exhibit
since the Aquarium opened. This successful breeding
behaviour attracted the interest of scientists researching the
culture of these highly-prized fishes and we gladly supplied
eggs for their pilot studies. The decline of local finfish stocks
in recent years is of great concern to us at the Two Oceans
Aquarium and we feel that, in the interests of our fishing
communities and wild fish stocks, more emphasis should, in
future, be placed on fish farming rather than fishing. To this
end we have established our own culture laboratory and
continue to assist organisations such as I&J, Espadon Marine
Hatcheries, Global Ocean and Marine and Coastal
Management's research aquarium in Sea Point with the supply
of fertilized eggs for initial growth trials, and the capture and
transport of large fish for brood stock.
Shark Conservation and Awareness
In 2003 we joined forces with AfriOceans Conservation Alliance
(AOCA) and the Save our Seas Foundation to raise awareness
of the plight of sharks worldwide and the desperate need for
their conservation. The Save Our Seas Foundation M-Sea
(Maxine Science, Education and Awareness) Programme
consists of three components:
i) Science - tagging of Aquarium and wild ragged-tooth
sharks with satellite and ultrasonic tags;
ii) Education and Awareness - including teacher workshops,
children’s activity books and information boards placed
at strategic points along the South African coast, and
iii) Documentary Films – including a one-hour documentary
on South Africa’s ragged - tooth sharks.
Central to the launch of this high profile public awareness
programme is Maxine, a large female ragged-tooth shark,
which was released from the Aquarium on 18 March 2004.
The exposure generated by this exercise has been substantial
and far-reaching and, with the release of our other raggedtooth sharks at intervals in the future (our second raggedtooth shark, Val, was released on 4 April 2005), we hope to
contribute significantly to our knowledge of ragged-tooth
sharks in the wild and change perceptions of sharks in general.
The beauty of this programme is that it allows us to extend
our conservation reach far beyond the Two Oceans Aquarium,
and this is imperative if we are to contribute effectively to the
well-being of all sharks in the oceans.
International collaboration
There has always been good collaboration between aquariums
globally. From the day the foundations of the Two Oceans
Aquarium were laid, to the present, we have received
tremendous support from international aquariums. We, in
turn, have assisted many aquariums around the world with
the exchange of ideas and/or the supply of animals. We have
established close associations with Tokyo Sealife Park, Japan;
Underwater World, Singapore; Ocean Park, Hong Kong; The
Scientific Centre, Kuwait; Valencia Aquarium, Spain; Lisbon
Aquarium, Portugal; Zoo-Aquarium Berlin, Germany; Pittsburg
Zoo and Aquarium, USA; Newport Aquarium, USA and
Monterey Bay Aquarium, USA.
Michael Farquhar
Curator
“Tell me, and I forget.
Teach me, and I may remember.
Involve me, and I learn.”
Benjamin Franklin
Mythical Creatures - Seahorses are the
favoured mounts of the sea-gods in Greek Mythology
Photo: Sven Lennert
EDUCATION INITIATIVES
The southern tip of the African continent is the meeting place
of the two bountiful oceans, the Indian and the Atlantic. These
waters, together with over 3,000 km of magnificent coastline,
are an invaluable economic resource, providing employment
for thousands of South Africans in the fishing and tourism
industries.
Environmental Education at the Two Oceans Aquarium
The Two Oceans Aquarium has established itself as a key
player in raising environmental awareness through its high
quality exhibits, conservation and education programmes.
In recent years we have rapidly gained recognition as a leading
environmental education centre in South Africa. The degree to
which we are recognised within the environmental education
community was highlighted recently when Phillip Ivy, the
Environmental Education Advisor to the previous Minister
of Education, was willing to join our education team for a short
period. Mr Ivy continues to contribute to our programmes on an
ad hoc basis.
A further acknowledgement of our capabilities and resources
is our selection as the Western Cape's teaching centre for the
World Wildlife Fund's national Sustainable Seafood Initiative.
This programme is in response to dwindling marine resources
and we eagerly await its development and launch.
Our Environmental Education Programmes
Discovery Centre Programmes
At present no other environmental education centre in the
country can match our facilities. Our two discovery centres
were designed by our staff specifically to enable stimulating
and relevant hands-on experiences. Laboratory benches fitted
with aquariums allow learners to closely observe, touch and
hold the animals or plants. We also have an excellent array of
AV equipment, including microscopes linked to video monitors,
which are used to describe the lives and functions of many
microscopic animals not normally seen with the naked eye.
Our teaching staff have developed over thirty topics for handson experiences in the discovery centres, covering a broad
selection of ecosystems from catchment areas to the oceans.
The topics for the natural sciences include invertebrates;
reptiles; amphibians; coastal birds; marine food chains; kelp
forest ecology; river ecology; wetlands; water conservation
and fynbos. We also offer courses which go beyond the
natural sciences and into the fields of maths, physics,
languages and art.
Other education initiatives
In addition to our discovery centre-based programmes we also
offer the following:
• In the Holcim Activity Centre we cater mainly for pre-school
children, concentrating on activities such as interactive
puppet shows and arts-and-crafts. Our puppet shows are
written and produced by two of South Africa's top
puppeteers, Cheryl Abromowitz and Janni Donald, both of
whom trained our staff in puppeteering skills. The Centre
is recognised for the fact that children are involved in healthy
pursuits which encourage innovation and a sense of
achievement and pride - a rarity in an age where electronic
entertainment is increasingly pervasive.
• Our Outreach Programme aims to reach people from
communities who cannot visit the Aquarium. By visiting
schools in these communities with our fully equipped mobile
aquarium trailer, we offer children an unforgettable experience
with live marine animals. In particular we focus our
programmes on those children who are likely to depend on
the sea for their livelihoods in the future. Coastal towns
such as Saldanha on the west coast and Hawston and
Gansbaai on the south coast are a high priority, as well as
traditionally disadvantaged areas such as Langa, Gugulethu
and Khayalitsha.
• Our Matric Biology Winter Revision Programme focuses on
assisting historically disadvantaged students with potential.
Last year's revision course, which involved 60 matric pupils,
resulted in an average increase of 12% among students
who had all failed their Biology exam in June. One student
achieved a distinction at the end of the year.
• Our Young Biologist Programme is offered to a selection of
students who show leadership potential and an interest in
marine life. These students are introduced to a range of
freshwater and marine animals as they explore the exhibits
in the Aquarium, nvestigate these animals in our classrooms
and discover the ocean and its inhabitants whilst snorkelling
on a weekend field trip.
• We offer Matric teachers the opportunity to use our
equipment, facilities and expertise to cover practical sections
of the syllabus.
• Our Teacher Enrichment Workshops focus on teaching
school teachers how to incorporate marine life and
environmental conservation themes into their lessons
at school.
• The facilities in our discovery centres allow us to invite
tertiary lecturers to use our facilities to expose their students
to living marine animals. For some zoology students
this has been their first opportunity to observe living
marine animals.
We are confident that, in the future we will cast our net even
wider and empower our children to become the future guardians
of South Africa's ocean legacy.
Russell Stevens
Head of Education
rediscover
south africa
your host country
SOUTH AFRICA
South Africa has the perfect blend of ingredients to provide
the ideal backdrop for any event: value, adventure, wildlife,
magnificent scenery, an efficient infrastructure and rich cultural
diversity. Few regions in the world can match the diversity, beauty
and excitement you’ll find in South Africa.
South Africa has already demonstrated an outstanding track
record of global significance such as the Commonwealth Heads
of Government Conference and the Non-Aligned Movement
Summit, International Aids Conference, the World Conference on
Racism, and various medical congresses, and was host country
to the World Summit on Sustainable Development in 2002.
EXCEPTIONAL SOUTH AFRICANS
Among the more famous sons and daughters of South Africa
are:
NELSON MANDELA
South Africa’s most famous son, Nelson
Rolihlahla Mandela, is also a world icon of
statesmanship and national reconciliation.
Nelson Mandela is best known for his long
struggle against the Apartheid government
- a system of white domination and racial
segregation. A co-founder of the African National Congress
Youth League, he also founded the Defiance Campaign of 1952,
based on Ghandi’s principles of non-violence. In 1964 he was
sentenced to life imprisonment by the Apartheid government and
sent to Robben Island.Released in 1990, Nelson Mandela was
central to the multi-party negotiations that led to democratic
elections in 1994. On May 10 of that year, he was inaugurated
as South Africa’s first black president. To this day, the Nobel Peace
Prize laureate continues to work for the children and the povertystricken masses of South Africa.
PRESIDENT THABO MBEKI
In the post-Mandela era, President Thabo
Mbeki has been a champion of the concept
of African Renaissance - a far-reaching vision
for the continent at large. After the initial
process of reconciliation, his government
was tasked with the job of implementing
much needed reforms like poverty alleviation, job creation and
nation-building in the new South Africa.
ARCHBISHOP DESMOND TUTU
Another Nobel lareate, Desmond Tutu is
more recently famous for his chairing of the
ground- breaking Truth and Reconciliation
Commission in the late 1990s. Known
throughout his long career as a vocal,
charismatic antiApartheid spokesman and
former head of the Anglican Church in Southern Africa,
Archbishop Tutu is one of South Africa’s most-loved citizens.
NADINE GORDIMER
Described by her peers as a “colossus of
South African literature”, Nadine Gordimer
was the first South African to win the Nobel
Prize for Literature. A prolific writer of novels,
short stories, essays and journalistic articles,
Gordimer was the first South African to win
the Nobel Prize for Literature. Gordimer was one of the voices
of protest during the Apartheid years - and continues to practise
her elegant craft in the modern era.
ERNIE ELS
Affectionately nicknamed “The Big Easy”
due to his calm demeanour, Ernie Els took
the international golfing world by storm when,
as a 24 year old, he won the 1994 U.S. Open.
He has since evolved into one of the world’s
top-ranking golfers, boasting a total of 35
international crowns, including two US Open
titles and the 2002 British Open. He follows in the footsteps of
other sporting greats like the renowned Gary Player or our great
swimmers Ryk Neethling and Pennie Heyns.
SOUTH AFRICA
THE SOUTH AFRICAN PEOPLE
•
South African grasslands have 30 species per square
kilometre, greater than the biodiversity of rainforests.
The Cape Peninsula has greater floral diversity than
South Africa is fondly known as the “Rainbow Nation”, due to
the whole of Europe.
its cultural diversity comprising people of the San (or Bushman),
Nguni, Sotho-Tswana, Tsonga, Venda, Indian, Afrikaner, English
•
South Africa has pioneered the principle of Transfrontier
and mixed origins, as well as immigrant communities from all
Parks in Africa far beyond the simple Waterton-Glacier
corners of the world. South Africa is a true melting pot of cultural
model, and is a primary agent in focusing world attention
richness.
on sustainability and the need for trans-frontier parks that
preserve our continent’s richness for all future generations.
The South African people have managed a remarkable transition
from a racially divided society to one that is founded on
•
South Africa pioneered heart transplant surgery in the world.
democratic principals. The way South Africans have overcome
•
South Africa leads the world in diamond production, and
historical racial divides is lauded throughout the world. The
is a world leader in precious metal supplies – gold, platinum,
people of South Africa continue to work together to develop
palladium, vanadium and of course many other metals such
and promote their country which recognizes and celebrates
as iron, chrome, tin, zinc and copper
difference in diversity of cultures, languages and religion.
PEOPLE AND CULTURE
EXCEPTIONAL LAND
• Our country is home to two of the world’s most profoundly
•
South Africa has the oldest meteor scar in the world,
compassionate philosophies - Ubuntu and Gandhi’s notion
just across the Vaal River near Parys, called the
of “passive resistance” (Satyagraha), which he developed
Vredefort Dome. The meteor plummeted to Earth
while living in South Africa. Ubuntu stresses the fact that all
nearly two billion years ago (Earth is said to be 4,5 billion
people are fundamentally connected; that we are human
because of each other: “I am because you are”.
years old), predating the heady days of oxygen and
multi-celled life.
•
urbanized. Interestingly though, a huge trend is developing
of the most ancient in the world - over three billion
where young urban families move from big cities to rural
years old. Because they are also the most accessible
towns to live life on a more sustainable scale and get in touch
idea of how life might form on distant planets. South
the biggest art gallery in the world, thanks to hundreds
remains and the area just north of Johannesburg is
upon hundreds of ancient San/Bushman paintings. Bushman
known as the “Cradle of Humankind”
paintings make up the earliest rock art on the planet - some
There are only 12 countries in the world that supply
are tens of thousands of years old.
of the top three in terms of quality
Where else is an entirely new species being recreated
from scratch? The kwagga, an extinct Zebra species,
vanished in a frenzy of hunting in the 1800s, but after
finding that the DNA is almost identical to the common
Burchell’s zebra, the species is being brought back from
beyond the brink by careful breeding of stripe-challenged
zebras.
•
with the Earth, simultaneously revitalizing the countryside.
• The Cederberg Mountain range in the Western Cape is called
Africa also is home to many ancient hominid fossil
tap water that is fit to drink, and South Africa is one
•
At least half of South Africa’s population is now officially
The rocks around Barberton in Mpumalanga are some
such formations, NASA scientists come here to gain an
•
•
Blyde River Canyon is the third largest canyon in the
world and the largest green one. The Grand Canyon
in the US is the biggest.
SOUTH AFRICA
The country is a rich tapestry of European and African peoples
So what’s to drink around South Africa?
blended into a single whole, but retaining the richness of their
If you’re looking to find something non-alcoholic, here are a
heritage and past within the mould of a vision for the future. Apart
few suggestions:
from great musicians like Hugh Masakela, Miriam Makeba and
Johnny Clegg, our country boasts poets and writers like Laurens
Liquifruit and Ceres: these 100% fruit juices are so highly
van der Post and Credo Mutwa, to visionaries for peace and Nobel
valued that delis in New York and Paris stock them. No
peace-prize winners.
preservatives, no added sugar - just concentrated fruit juice
that tastes like the real deal. Then there are canned drinks that
TASTY TITBITS
are unique too – Appletizer and Grapetizer.
There are some South African specialities that visitors to our
Rock shandy - this is the sportsman’s thirst quencher of
shores won’t find anywhere else in the world. Here’s a taste
choice, but has proved to be equally popular in restaurants.
of what to expect:
It’s a mixture of club soda, carbonated lemonade, a splash of
bitters
Kingklip - no other country consumes as much kingklip as
South Africans do. A sturdy fish with beautiful flakes, it absorbs
On the alcoholic front we serve:
flavours well and is a local delicacy.
Cane spirits - made from distilled sugar cane, where it is
Karoo lamb - by all accounts most chefs agree that we have
something special in Karoo lamb. The animals feed on fragrant
mixed into cocktails and combined with tropical fruit juices.
South Africa’s answer to Vodka…
shrubs and wild herbs that lend the meat its unique flavour.
Grilled, gourmet-style, barbequed or basted, it’s a sure-fire
winner.
Brandy - we make some of the best brandy (cousin to the
Cognacs of France) in the world - a fact not widely known.
Biltong and boerewors - these must be our national icons in
Drunk traditionally with Coca-Cola it should actually be enjoyed in
the food arena. In the early days before refrigeration the Dutch
a crystal snifter after a good meal with a cigar to match.
preserved excess meat from the hunt by rubbing it with salt,
pepper, coriander, vinegar and saltpetre and hanging it out to dry.
Meat treated in this manner lasted indefinitely as long as it was
Beer - every country has its beers and South Africa is particularly
partial to its brew in view of the warm climatic conditions that
prevail here.
kept dry. Boerewors is a robust farmer’s sausage sold in coiled
ribbons. The meat is spicy and redolent of coriander and sizzles
Wine and sparkling wines - this is where you can expect to
and splatters companionably when slapped on the coals or dropped
be truly spoilt. South African wines are excellent and very,
into a hot skillet.
very affordable when compared to overseas products. Try the
robust local reds (like Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon and Pinotage
Bobotie – a traditional Cape Malay dish of spiced mince.
(a variety unique to this country). For something special at no price
Braaivleis – at the heart of the South African outdoor life –
at all, order a bottle of local bubbly like Cap Classique or Krone
the ubiquitous barbecue. Try “pap and wors”, two unusual
Borealis. Fermented in the bottle in the French tradition, it makes
combinations that are uniquely and quintessentially South
for light, easy drinking with a festive air.
African.
Samoosas - these triangular savoury pastries are the Indian
South African answer to the English meat pie (although we
have those too). The filling can be made of either chilli-laden
mince or a spicy vegetable mix.
SOUTH AFRICA
FACTS ABOUT SOUTH AFRICA
South Africa has three international airports: Cape Town,
Duty-free shops are situated at Cape Town, Johannesburg and
Durban International Airports.
Johannesburg and Durban. Other airports include Port Elizabeth,
There are 11 official languages in SA. English is the language
East London, Bloemfontein, Kimberley, George, Pilanesberg
of administration and is widely spoken. Other languages are:
and Lanseria.
Afrikaans, Ndebele, Northern Sotho, Southern Sotho, Swazi,
The South African currency is the Rand, which is made up of 100
Tsonga, Tswana, Venda, Xhosa and Zulu.
cents. Notes issued: R10, R20, R50, R100 and R200. Coins
Customs: Personal effects (used) are admitted duty free. The
issued: 5c, 10c, 20c, 50c, R1, R2 and R5. Foreign currency
allowance for visitors to South Africa is as follows (free of duty
can be exchanged at commercial banks and at various foreign
per adult):
exchange bureaux. Banks are open from 09:00 – 15:30 weekdays
and 08:30 – 11:00 on Saturdays. Most banks have Automatic
Teller Machines (ATMs), which are open 24 hours a day for
statements, cash withdrawals and deposits.
1 litre of spirits
2 litres of wine
400 cigarettes
50 cigars
South Africa has a modern and sophisticated banking and
50ml perfume
commercial system and most shops and hotels will accept all
250ml eau de toilette
major international credit cards.
Gifts and souvenirs to the value of R3 000
South Africa has adopted a Value Added Tax (VAT) system of
Permits are required for firearms and are available at the
14% on purchases and services. Foreign visitors to South Africa
entry points.
can reclaim their VAT on purchases if they have spent more
than R250.
Health Requirements: No vaccinations are required for cholera
or smallpox. If arriving from a yellow fever zone, you must have
Shopping and business hours: Most shops in the city centres and
a valid international yellow fever inoculation certificate. Due to
suburbs are open between 09:00 and 18:00 on weekdays and
the threat of malaria, preventative medication is necessary for
until 14:00 on Saturdays and Sundays. Generally major shopping
the Northern Province, Mpumalanga and the north of KwaZulu-
malls usually open at 09:00 and close at 18:00.
Natal. It is obtainable from all pharmacies in South Africa.
South African Time is set at GMT +2. There are no time zone
differences within South Africa and the country has not adopted
a daylight time saving system in summer.
Cellular phones (mobile phones) can be rented at the airport or at
Malaria preventative medication is not necessary for Cape Town
and the Western Cape.
In most cities / towns / game reserves the tap water is purified
and 100% safe to drink.
Visitor Information Centres. Blue public phones work with the
Visas are issued by the South African missions abroad and
use of coins, while green public phones work with local Telkom
must be affixed in the applicant’s passport before departing
phone cards. International roaming is possible depending on
to South Africa. Visas are not issued on arrival at South African
your service provider.
ports of entry.
Driving: An international driver’s license is required in SA and
the license must include a photograph as well as the signature
of the holder. Driving is on the left-hand side of the road and
speed limits are in kilometres. Cash is required to pay for fuel.
recreation
cape town
your host city
CAPE TOWN
TOP TOURIST ATTRACTIONS
Cape Town has so much to offer as a tourist destination. It is blessed to have South Africa’s top six tourist attractions within one
hour’s drive from the city centre, the Victoria and Alfred Waterfront, Table Mountain, Cape Point, the Winelands, Kirstenbosch
Botanical Gardens and Robben Island, a short boat trip away.
1. Table Mountain
South Africa’s world-renowned icon, the beloved Table Mountain,
was given National Park status in May 1998.
Table Mountain offers something for everyone – magnificent
views, cable car rides, mountain-biking, hiking, serious rock
climbing, cross country running, fascinating botany, birding and
for the more adventurous, abseiling and paragliding. Visitors
are treated to a spectacular view during the ride to the top of
Table Mountain aboard a modern cable car with a revolving floor.
4. Winelands/Wine Routes
South Africa and the Western Cape produce some of the
world’s best wines. The first wines in South Africa were
produced at Steenberg in 1695 and Groot Constantia is the oldest
productive wine estate in the country.
5. Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens
2. Victoria & Alfred Waterfront
Cape Town’s Victoria and Alfred Waterfront has established
itself as a leading world-class waterfront. The unique working
harbour with scenic views of Table Mountain combined with
entertainment options like shopping, street musicians, museums,
an Aquarium, boat trips and cinemas promise to make any visit
an unforgettable experience.
Kirstenbosch is internationally acclaimed as one of the great
botanical gardens of the world. Situated on the eastern slopes
of Cape Town’s magnificent Table Mountain, the estate covers
528 hectares and includes a cultivated garden and a nature reserve.
Indeed the tiny Cape Peninsula has more floral diversity than the
whole of Europe
6. Cape Point
3. Robben Island
Robben Island is one of South Africa’s four World Heritage sites.
This barren windswept island was the prison home of former
President Nelson Mandela for many years. Here you can
experience the view that kept Nelson Mandela’s dream of
freedom for his country alive.
The Cape of Good Hope and Cape Point form part of the Cape
Peninsula National Park and are managed by the South African
National Parks. Visitors can enjoy the 7 750 hectares reserve of
indigenous flora and fauna and over 150 bird species and can also
travel with the only funicular in Africa to the viewing platform 678
metres above the sea.
CAPE TOWN
Other attractions in Cape Town & Western Cape include:
•
The Castle Goede Hoop
•
Cape Town Townships
•
Whales
•
Bo Kaap
•
Floral Heritage
•
Beaches
•
Garden Route
•
Cango Caves
•
National Parks
•
National Reserves
Exchange rate for major currencies
(as at April 2008)
R 7.80
1 US $
R 15.55
1£
R 12.27
1€
Estimated costs of consumables in Cape Town Routes Unlimited
(as at April 2008)
Coffee
R 8.50
US $ 1.08
£0.54
€0.69
Soda
R 6.50
US $ 0.83
£ 0.41
€0.52
Draft beer
R 12.00
US $ 1.53
£0.77
€1.97
Bottle of white
wine in restaurant
R 75.00
US $9.61
£4.82
€6.11
Bottle of red
wine in restaurant
R 95.00
US $12.17
£6.10
€7.74
3 course meal
R125.00
US $16.02
£8.03
€10.18
Sandwich in
restaurant
R 22.00
US $2.82
£1.41
€1.79
Big Mac burger
R 19.95
US $2.55
£1.28
€1.62
CAPE TOWN’S CONFERENCE CREDENTIALS
Cape Town has successfully hosted many top class international
congresses and conventions with the assistance of local
organisers, namely:
PAST EVENTS
2004 Internet Corporation for Assigned Names &
Numbers (ICANN) (500 delegates)
2004 International Conference of Principals (3000
delegates)
2005 International Electrotechnical Commission
(IEC GM) (1000 delegates)
Repeat Gartner Symposium / IT Expo (1500
delegates)
2006 International Diabetes Federation (IDF)
(12 000 delegates)
FUTURE EVENTS
2008 World Congress of Anaesthesiologists
(10 000 delegates)
2009 FIGO World Congress (8000 delegates)
2009 IEEE Geoscience & Remote Sensing Symposium
(IGARSS) (1400 delegates)
2010 IEEE Globecom (1500 delegates)
2011 International Conference on Hyperbaric Medicine
(3000 delegates)
2012 International Congress of Psychology
(6000 delegates)
2014 16th IUPHAR World Congress of Basic Clinical
Pharmacology (10 000 delegates)
GLOBAL DESTINATION ACCOLADES
• International association of Golf Tourism Organisation’s
best global golf tourism destination for Africa and the
Middle East 2007.
• In 2005, Travel and Leisure Magazine World’s Best Awards
name Cape Town as the best city in the Middle East and
Africa, five years in a row. Cape Town was voted eighth
overall in their top destinations category.
• In 2005, Cape Town won the No. 1 city in Africa and the
th
Middle East as the 18 annual Condé'8e Nast Traveller
Reader’s Choice Awards.
• In 2004 and 2005, Cape Town was named as “Favourite
Foreign City” by readers of the United Kingdom’s Daily
Telegraph and Sunday Telegraph, the only non-European city
to achieve this feat for the second year running.
• In the 2004 High Life Travel Awards, British Airways voted
Cape Town the best city to eat out, pipping New York, Sidney,
London and Paris to the post. In the Best Overall Destination
category Cape Town came in second to Sidney, ahead of
New York and Dubai.
• Fifth among all the world cities by Travel & Leisure’s World’s
Best Awards in 2003.
• In 2003, Condé'8e Nast Traveller ranked Cape Town as the
world’s best value-for-money city in the world for two years
in a row and also voted the most hospitable city for the year.
• The World’s Hottest Sunspot by the London Times in
September 2003.
• Fifth on the BBC’s ’50 Places to See Before You Die’ in 2002.
• In 2002, Newsweek nominated Cape Town as one of the top
eight cultural centres in the world, being highly regarded for
its film, advertising and fashion modeling industries, not only
for creativity but also in terms of value for money.
• Third favourite City in the World for United Kingdom Travellers
by the London Observer in 2002.
repositioning
the conference
logistical support
TRAVEL TO CAPE TOWN
INTERNATIONAL FLIGHTS TO AND FROM CAPE TOWN and
JOHANNESBURG SOUTH AFRICA
When visiting Cape Town, delegates will mostly arrive and
depart by air. Once here, getting around is relatively simple and
convenient, whether by rail, taxi, inner city bus or hired car.
Both Johannesburg and Cape Town have modern airports
with facilities to match. Apart from shops and restaurants,
international arrival halls have banks and foreign exchange
outlets. There will also be business class lounges and many
spots at airports have Internet access, either via wireless
Internet access or “hot spots” where coverage exists. Many
hotels and major cities have extensive wireless coverage.
Allow at least two hours for international check in – but
preferably three for travel to the USA or Israel due to increased
security measures. An hour is normally adequate for domestic
check-in
Foreign visitors leaving South Africa may claim back Value
Added Tax on purchases from the VAT refund administrator.
The goods and proof of purchase slip have to be shown to
the administrator before check-in.
There are public telephones, which use coins or phone cards,
in all terminals, as well as rentals for mobile phones and
SIM cards
The Conference venue and most of its satellite hotels are a
mere 20-minute drive from Cape Town International Airport.
Whilst a number of international and national carriers service
Cape Town International Airport on a daily basis, the bulk of
carriers stop over in Johannesburg and then carry on to Cape
Town, or terminate their flights in Johannesburg, which
necessitates a short two-hour domestic flight to CapeTown.
TRAVEL TO CAPE TOWN
INTERNATIONAL FLIGHTS TO AND FROM CAPE TOWN /
SOUTH AFRICA
When visiting Cape Town, delegates will mostly arrive and
depart by air. Once here, getting around is relatively simple and
convenient, whether by rail, taxi, inner city bus or hired car.
CAPE TOWN INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT
BANKS
TELEPHONES
Public telephones
There are public telephones, which use coins or phone cards,
in all terminals.
Cellular (mobile) telephone rentals
In the International Terminal you will find VodaShop and MTN
Mobile Phone Rental. There is also a VodaShop in Domestic
Arrivals.
International Departures
• ABSA has a bank, a bureau de change and an ATM in
International Departures.
Major Direct and Non Stop Services into South Africa
International Arrivals
• You will find a Master Currency bureau de change in
International Arrivals.
• Air Botswana
• Air Mauritius
• Air Namibia
• British Airways
• Delta ( mid 2008)
• Emirates
• Globespan
• Kenya Airways
• KLM
• LTU
• Lufthansa
• Malaysia Airlines
• Qatar
• Singapore Airlines
• South African Airlines
• Virgin Atlantic
EXECUTIVE LOUNGES
International Departures
• South African Airways
• British Airways – Terraces
• The Premier Lounge (www.Rennies.co.za)
The Premier Lounge is an executive lounge that is open to any
passenger, no matter the airline or ticket class. You can pay
per visit or buy a pre-paid card for six or more visits.
INTERNET ACCESS
ACSA has provided a WIFI (Wireless Internet Access) facility at
the International as well as at the Domestic Terminals.
VAT REFUNDS
Foreign visitors leaving South Africa may claim back Value
Added Tax on purchases from the VAT refund administrator.
The goods have to be shown to the administrator before
check-in.
The VAT refund office is on the ground level of International
Departures. Only after a passenger has checked in and passed
through passport control is the value of the VAT (less the
administrator's commission) paid back. This happens on the
ground level of International Departures, between passport
control and the boarding gates.
International airlines flying into CapeTown include:
In addition Johannesburg’s international airport services all
major destinations with major feeder services to Cape Town.
8 local carriers service Cape Town with many frequent scheduled
services to other centres.
THE CONFERENCE
FLIGHTS TO AND FROM SOUTH AFRICA
Europe
SAA
British Airways
Virgin
KLM
Lufthansa
LTU
Nationwide
Air France
Iberia
Olympic Airways
Swiss Air
TAP Air Portugal
USA
Cpt direct
Cpt direct
Cpt direct
Cpt direct
Cpt direct
Cpt direct
Cpt direct
Jnb direct
Jnb direct
Jnb direct
Jnb direct
Jnb direct
Cpt direct
Cpt direct
Jnb direct
Jnb direct
Jnb direct
Middle East
Emirates
SAA
Yemen Airways
QATAR
Jnb direct
Jnb direct
Jnb direct
Cpt direct
Africa
Kenya Airways
Air Mauritius
Air Namibia
SAA
Interair
Air Malawi
Air Zimbabwe
Egypt Air
East African Airline
Air Botswana
Cameroon Airlines
Air Seychelles
Ehtiopean Airlines
Air Madagascar
Trans Air Congo
Air Gabon
Air Tanzania
Lignes Aerlennes
Congalaises
Comair
Rwandair Express
Hewa Bora Airways
Angola Airways
Air Austral
South America
Malaysian Airlines
SAA
Cpt direct
Jnb direct
ESTIMATED FLYING TIMES
Far East & Australia
Malaysian Airlines
Singapore Airlines
Cathay Pacific
SAA
Qantas
SAA (Atlanta)
Jnb direct
SAA (New York)
Jnb direct
No American airlines, though Delta are pool partners
of SAA
Most European Airlines fly via Europe
Cpt direct
Cpt direct
Cpt direct
Cpt direct
Jnb direct
Jnb direct
Jnb direct
Jnb direct
Jnb direct
Jnb direct
Jnb direct
Jnb direct
Jnb direct
Jnb direct
Jnb direct
Jnb direct
Jnb direct
Jnb direct
Jnb direct
Jnb direct
Jnb direct
Jnb direct
Jnb direct
Estimated flying time between various destinations
within South Africa
•
•
•
•
•
Johannesburg - Cape Town
Durban - Cape Town
Port Elizabeth - Cape Town
Johannesburg – Livingstone
Johannesburg – Sun City
1 hr 50 min
1 hr 55 min
1 hr 15 min
1 hr 30 min
40 min
Estimated flying time between destination Cape
Town and International cities:
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
Atlanta
Boston
Copenhagen
Dubai
Edinburgh
Frankfurt
Hong Kong
London
Melbourne
Nairobi
New York
Perth
Sao Paulo
Singapore
Vancouver
18 hrs 25 min
25 hrs 50 min
14 hrs 50 min
10 hrs 10 min
12 hrs
10 hrs 30 min
16 hrs
11 hrs 30 min
20 hrs 50 min
6 hrs 10 min
19 hrs
11 hrs 15 min
11 hrs 45 min
13 hrs 35 min
21 hrs 35 min
ESTIMATED FLYING TIMES
Estimated flying time between various destinations
within South Africa
•
•
•
•
•
Johannesburg - Cape Town
Durban - Cape Town
Port Elizabeth - Cape Town
Johannesburg – Livingstone
Johannesburg – Sun City
1 hr 50 min
1 hr 55 min
1 hr 15 min
1 hr 30 min
40 min
Our PCO has preferential flight agreements, both in terms
of availability and tariff, on the national carrier, South African
Airways, and should numbers warrant, with the broader
base of the Star Alliance, including such major carriers as
Lufthansa, United and Singapore Airlines. This means that
part of the value-added service to delegates will be access
to cost-effective fares in both economy and business class.
Fig: Location of Airport
THE CONFERENCE
GETTING AROUND
ACCOMMODATION
By Taxi or Coach
Cape Town has a wide selection of superb hotels in all
categories that promise local and international business
visitors a pleasurable stay in the Mother City.
Cape Town’s metered taxi operators have a proud record
of helping visitors make the most of their stay. Luxury
air-conditioned coaches and shuttle buses will move
delegates between the airport, hotels, the CTICC and their
functions.
By Train
Cape Town station is situated within walking distance of
the Westin Grand South Africa Arabella Quays Hotel, and
the functional Metro Rail system connects the city centre
with the northern suburbs, southern suburbs and Cape
Flats.
By Canal
Cape Town’s newest tourism precinct, the Roggebaai canal,
ferries visitors and locals in water taxis from their hotels
in the world-renowned Victoria & Alfred Waterfront along
a picturesque stretch of water to the front door of
the Westin Grand South Africa Arabella Quays Hotel.
As hotels are within easy walking distance, this offers a
recreational alternative.
With access to more than 5000 rooms, all within walking
distance, the Cape Town International Convention Centre
is ideally located to accommodate the specific needs of
any delegation. The on-site hotel, the 5 star Westin
Grand South Africa Arabella Quays Hotel, has 483 rooms
and suites and provides delegates with immediate access
from the hotel to the heart of the convention centre.
Guests have access to more than 2500 five-star rooms,
3500 four-star rooms and 2200 three-star rooms. There
are an additional 8000 moderately priced rooms in the
city’s excellent guesthouses and lodges.
Cape Town is a value-for-money destination and hotels
offer excellent service to our delegates. Currently,
conference delegates can expect to pay for
accommodation on a bed and breakfast basis, twinshare, inclusive of VAT and 1% tourism levy:
5 Star – from R1700 per person
4 Star – from R800-R1600 per person
3 Star – from R350 – R850 per person
Architecturally, the canal and convention centre reflect
the historical heritage of Cape Town. The banks of the
canal are dotted with sidewalk cafes and restaurants,
speciality retail outlets, small boutique hotels and
guesthouses.
… for the Conference
As part of the value-add to the conference, arrival transfers
from Cape Town International airport to major conference
hotels will take place on the two days immediately
preceding the opening of the conference. There will be
help desks at the airport with meet and greet services.
Transfers between major conference hotels and the
venue will also be scheduled, as well as to major events
such as the gala dinner.
Rates are of course seasonal with a peak towards the
end of year which co-incides with both South African
school holidays as well as the Northern Hemisphere
winter months.
The conference organizers ACI will arrange a broad band
of pre-reserved accommodation for the conference at
a range of hotels to suit all budgets, within close proximity
to the conference venue. The rates will also be negotiated
at preferential tariffs for delegates wherever possible.
AREA
ROOMS
5 STAR
The Westin
Cape Grace
Table Bay
RadissonSAS G/Bay
Mount Nelson
The Bay
Le Vendome
12 Apostles Hotel
Taj Hotel
One and Only
Bantry Bay Luxury Suites
Lagoon Beach Hotel
The Commodore
Foreshore, CBD (in-house hotel – CTICC)
V&A Waterfront
V&A Waterfront
Granger Bay (V&A)
Tamboerskloof
Campsbay
Sea Point
De Oudekraal
Central City, CBD
V&A Waterfront
Bantry Bay
Milnerton
V&A Waterfront
483
122
329
182
206
72
143
70
180
Opening 2009
18
272
236
4 STAR
Protea Victoria Junction Hotel
Metropole Hotel
Portswood Hotel
The Vineyard
La Splendida Botique Hotel City Centre
Protea President Hotel
RadissonSAS G/Bay
Cape Heritage Hotel
Capetonian Hotel
Cullinan Hotel
Holiday Inn Waterfront
Cape Sun, Southern Sun
Winchester Mansions
Ambassador Hotel & Executive Suites
Hippo Botique Hotel
The Cape Milner
Cape Town Lodge
Best Western Cape Suites
The Townhouse
St. Georges Hotel
Fountain Hotel
Victoria & Alfred Hotel
Protea Hotel
Adderley Hotel
Leisure Bay Luxury Suites
Green Point
Central City, CBD
V&A Waterfront
Newlands
CBD
Bantry Bay
Granger Bay (V&A)
City Centre
Foreshore, CBD
Foreshore, CBD
Foreshore, CBD
Central City , CBD
Sea Point
Bantry Bay
Central City, CBD
Central City , CBD
Central City , CBD
Central City , CBD
Central City, CBD
Central City, CBD
Central City, CBD
V&A Waterfront
North Wharf
Central City, CBD
Bantry Bay
172
29
103
173
24
349
181
15
167
410
546
368
53
97
20
57
114
123
107
139
270
94
68
28
Opening 2009
FROM R700 - R1600
HOTEL CATEGORY
FROM R1700
THE CONFERENCE
HOTEL CATEGORY
AREA
ROOMS
3 STAR
Protea Pier Place Hotel
Breakwater Lodge
Protea Sea Point Hotel
City Lodge
Park Inn Hotel
Eastern Boulevard, Garden Court Central City
Newlands, Garden Court
De-Waal, Garden Court
The Cape Manor
Lady Hamilton
Cape Diamond Hotel
Hotel Graeme
Cape Castle
Tudor Hotel
Tulbagh Hotel
V&A Waterfront
Central City, CBD
V&A Waterfront
Sea Point
V&A Waterfront
Central City, CBD
CBD
Newlands
Central City, CBD
Sea Point
Central City, CBD
Central City, CBD
Green Point
Green Point
City Centre, CBD
City Centre, CBD
V&A Waterfront
56
251
123
164
165
292
162
136
108
78
60
32
65
26
58
Opening 2009
LOCAL ORGANISER AND CONVENTION
BUREAU SUPPORT SERVICES
Cape Town Routes Unlimited is the official marketing
organisation for Cape Town and the Western Cape. The Cape
Town and Western Cape Convention and Events Bureau is a
strategic business unit of Cape Town Routes Unlimited and is
tasked to promote the region as a premier events and meetings
destination. The Bureau would be able to provide the local host
committee with destination expertise and support which will
make the conference successful.
FROM R350 - R850
THE CONFERENCE
Day Tours
Preceding, throughout and at the end of the conference
a number of scheduled day tours will operate. All tours
will collect and drop delegates at their hotels and at the
Cape Town Convention Centre. Here is a sample of tours
on offer:
Cape Winelands:
A full day tour that travels into the Cape mountainlands
and to South Africa’s pre-eminent winelands. Visit several
wineries complete with wine tasting, as well as a local
cheese farm. Savour lunch at a wine estate whilst taking
in the stunning mountain scenery. The tour will visit the
Stellenbosch and Franschoek areas.
Cape Point:
A stunning journey into the renowned Table Mountain
National park, travelling via the spectacular Chapmans
Peak before travelling on to Cape Point. And taking the
funicular to the lighthouse that is sentinel to False Bay.
Dramatic scenery and wildlife, not to mention the western
Cape’s incredible floral diversity, which is greater than
that of all of Europe, and which is one of only seven
Floral Kingdoms on the planet. Return to the city with
a stop at a protected penguin colony at Boulders.
Hermanus Whale-Watching:
A dramatic journey via the Kogelberg biosphere with its
World Heritage status, visiting Henry Porter Botanic
Gardens and sights of False Bay along the dramatic road
towards Cape Hangklip, before heading to the coastal
resort of Hermanus, famed as being one of the top
whale-spotting destinations on the planet. Lunch at the
resort before a return to the city.
White Shark Diving:
The Cape East Coast, and especially Gans Bay, is renowned as
the place to see the Great White Shark close up. A full day
excursion takes you to Gans Bay and out on a dive boat with
a highly qualified team for a close up view of these magnificent
creatures, in the safety of a cage. A truly unforgettable
experience.
City Tour:
See the highlights of Cape Town, its history with a visit to the
Castle and a chance to see the Houses of Parliament, the
culture with views of the Cape Malay quarter and its rich musical
heritage, the stunning scenery of Camps Bay and Lions Head,
the atmosphere of the downtown area and the shopping at the
renowned malls of the V and A Waterfront .
Kirstenbosch and Table Mountain:
Sheltered at the base of the eastern buttress of Table Mountain
lies one of South Africa’s most famous Botanical Gardens. No
visit to Cape Town would be complete without visiting
Kirstenbosch. Couple that with a trip via the Twelve Apostles
and the dramatic Chapmans Peak, and ending the journey with
a trip up Table Mountain by cable-car, and this will remain as
one of the finest day tours possible on the planet.
Robben Island:
Now a living museum and wildlife sanctuary, Robben Island is
an integral part of South Africa’s history, as it was the place
that South Africa’s great leader Nelson Mandela spent many
years in incarceration. Get to relive the sadness of South Africa’s
past before returning to the vibrancy of its future. Tours include
boat transfers but are weather-dependant.
Visit to Big Five Game Reserve:
It is possible to see the famed “Big Five” of Africa in a game reserve situated just
over an hour out of Cape Town. As an introduction to the rich diversity of African
wildlife this tour should not be missed.
Accompanying Persons Tour
It is planned that the Accompanying Persons tours will encapsulate the major tours set out in the day tours above
but will also be amplified to include tours with local flavour, such as an introduction to South African cooking, and
a basic understanding of the beadwork for which Africa is well-known.
Social Programme
Sunday Evening
A function is planned for delegates and their partners to introduce and welcome
them to Cape Town and South Africa. The function will take place in the Cape Town
International Convention Centre, and will consist of a light finger supper combined
with local wines.
Monday Evening
The Castle of Good Hope is the oldest surviving building in South Africa. Built between
1666 and 1679, this pentagonal fortification replaced a small fort of timber and clay
built by Commander Jan van Riebeeck in 1652 upon establishing a maritime
replenishment station at the Cape of Good Hope for the Dutch East Indian Company
or better known as the VOC (Verenigde Oost-Indische Compagnie)
In 1936 the Castle was declared a National Monument. As a result of an extensive,
ongoing restoration and conservation programme launched in the 1980's, the Castle
of Good Hope remains the best preserved of its kind built by the VOC in regions
where it had interests in previous centuries.
Today, the Castle of Good Hope house the regional headquarters of the South African
Army in the Western Cape, the famous William Fehr Collection of historic artworks,
the Castle Military Museum and ceremonial facilities for traditional Cape Regiments.
Tuesday Evening
The highlight of the International Aquarium Congress social programme must be
the opportunity to come face to face with the translucent, fragile jellies; alien-like
giant spider crabs; and the master of camouflage, the shy octopus in the Atlantic
Ocean Gallery or become enchanted by the swaying Kelp Forest Exhibit and
awed by the ragged-tooth sharks, graceful rays and shoals of predatory fishes in
the I & J Predator Exhibit. The myriad of exhibits on display at the Two Oceans
Aquarium offers a visual delight in an intimate and relaxed atmosphere. Delegates
will be treated to a cocktail party and an exclusive after-hours tour of the Aquarium
and the secret world of its creatures. Our knowledgeable staff and volunteers will
provide a tour which few have the privilege to experience.
Wednesday Evening
Set in the heart of a working harbor, you can watch the catch of the day being
offloaded, glimpse the famous Cape Fur Seals basting in the sun and experience
the vitality of life on the open seas.
There are so many ways to while away the hours – shopping, movies, a trip to the
Two Oceans Aquarium, festivals, concerts, expos and live entertainment. There are
also over 80 restaurants and taverns to choose from. With more than 450 stores,
trading seven days a week until 9pm, this top fashion destination plays host to
world famous brands such as Gucci including Proudly South African brands. Don’t
forget to visit the Waterfront Craft Market and Wellness Centre, where you can pick
up some exquisite local art, crafts and artifacts.
Thursday Evening
Under the starlight African sky, set in a garden in the Western Cape Winelands,
Moyo at Stellenbosch is unlike any other restaurant. You will experience the tastes
and flavours of Africa and world class wines. Textures surround you everywhere,
the mosaics and copper, the carved woods, cowry shells and unique water features.
Your sixth sense – your sense of anticipation – will be rewarded at Moyo, with
moments that seem to belong to another world. Bedouin tents and Gazebos are placed throughout the garden and create an almost
nomad African Village. Experience Moyo in any way you can and your senses will take you to the oldest
continent in new and memorable ways.
reconvene
the venue
the CTICC
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2
3
4
6
5
1. Conservatory
2. Ballroom
3. Auditorium 1
4. Exhibition Hall
5. Auditorium 2
6. Ballroom
THE VENUE
THE VENUE
The 8TH International Aquarium Congress (IAC) 2012
PROPOSED VENUES
Proposed Dates, 9th September – 14th September 2012
REQUIRED SPACE
CTICC SPACE
MAXIMUM CAPACITY CTICC
VENUE CAN HOLD
Plenary Venue
• Includes Seats with writing tablets,
6 interpreting booths, projector room
• One 3500 ANSI Lumen Data Projector with
Long throw lens and data point on stage –
• 1 AV Technician for an 8 hour shift
• Stage
• Screen
• Lectern
• Basic PA system
• Basic Lighting
• Excludes: All extra security staff,
unscheduled cleaning, additional AV
and lighting
Auditorium 2
620 theatre style maximum
Breakaway Venue
Block 1.61 - 162
90 theatre style maximum
Breakaway Venue
Block 1.63 – 1.62
90 theatre style maximum
Breakaway Venue
Block 2.61 – 2.63
90 theatre style maximum
Breakaway Venue
Block 2.64 – 2.66
90 theatre style maximum
Steering Committee
Suite 1.71
20 Boardroom maximum
Steering Committee
Suite 1.72
20 Boardroom maximum
Steering Committee
Suite 1.73
20 Boardroom maximum
Steering Committee
Suite 1.74
20 Boardroom maximum
Steering Committee
Suite 1.91
20 Boardroom maximum
Audio Visual Room
Suite 1.92
20 Boardroom maximum
Office
Suite 1.93
20 Boardroom maximum
Exhibition/Internet and Catering area
Clivia Conservatory, Jasminium
restaurant and conservatory, Strelitzia
restaurant and conservatory
600 standing lunch with
exhibition component
THE VENUE
CAPE TOWN INTERNATIONAL CONVENTION CENTRE
Situated on the outskirts of the Central Business District, the
Cape Town International Convention Centre (CTICC) is close
to the vibrant beat of the city’s heart. At its official opening,
President Thabo Mbeki called the development ‘a symbol of
hope, a symbol of our glorious past, a symbol of modernity and
a symbol of future prosperity’.
that the design lends itself to a smooth flow and circulation of
visitors. From major medical and scientific conventions hosting
thousands of delegates, to consumer exhibitions and trade
shows, as well as intimate meetings and events, the CTICC
accommodates them all.
The Auditoria
It is a notion that is as true today as it was then.
Location and setting: a stunning environment
When you visit Cape Town, bring your camera. Table Mountain
presides majestically over the entire city bowl, with landscapes
as diverse as beaches and winelands just a short drive away.
Many of the city’s landmarks – shops, buildings, cultural
attractions – are a few minutes from the Cape Town International
Convention Centre. The nearby V&A Waterfront, with its
mesmerizing list of restaurants, boutiques, malls, and creative
characters, remains the country’s most visited venue. This is
indeed a city that embraces its ancient and recent history,
fusing it with a sense of cutting edge design, contemporary
fashion, and social chic.
The CTICC has added to this vibrant space. Its arrival has
resulted in the blossoming of the Foreshore precinct – land
reclaimed from the Atlantic Ocean in the 1930s. The Foreshore
now forms a lively link between the Central Business District
(CBD) and the city’s harbour. Hotel and infrastructure
developments abound – and the CBD itself has been infused
with a new sense of purpose.
The new centre of Cape Town
One of the city’s most recent developments is the Roggebaai
Canal, which provides a water-taxi route between the CTICC
and the V&A Waterfront. With an embarkation point in the main
court, Convention Square, the canal offers visitors a unique
view of the city. And it’s just one of the ways the Convention
Centre’s location makes for an unforgettable stay.
The two auditoria, which offer excellent technological
infrastructure and superb acoustics, provide tiered seating for
large plenary sessions, lectures, product launches award
evenings and theatre productions. Situated on opposite ends
of the building, both auditoria can be utilized simultaneously
while still allowing delegates breathing space. Design details
such as writing tablets attached to the seats add a final quality
touch.
The sweeping space of Auditorium I seats 1500 guests, and
is equipped with a large stage and screen, six interpreting
booths, an orchestra pit and a projection room. Linked VIP
dressing rooms comfortably accommodate speakers, or the
cast of theatre productions. The auditorium’s spacious foyer
enables delegates to enjoy refreshments, register, network,
or view conference-related exhibits with ease. A designated
exterior smoking terrace leads off from the foyer.
Auditorium II seats 620 delegates and is also equipped with a
stage, screen, six interpreting booths, and a projection room.
This venue is ideally located off the Strelitzia Conservatory and
can be accessed from Level 1 of the centre. The Conservatory
is the ideal pause point between busy conference schedules
– enjoy some refreshments, and relax.
From lectures to live jazz, the CTICC’s auditoria remain
consummate hosts.
Exhibition Halls
Flexibility: the key to multi-use facilities
The Cape Town International Convention Centre is designed
to meet the varied needs of its delegates and visitors. Its subdivisible, multi-use convention facilities – and dedicated exhibition
area – create an environment that allows for any number of
events and functions.
A sublime sense of space
One of the outstanding features of the CTICC is its imposing,
two-storey gallery that extends the full length of the centre.
Move from one venue to the next, and you will soon notice
The Cape Town International Convention Centre provides
10 000m2 of dedicated, column-free exhibition and trade show
space. The exhibition halls are sub-divisible and can be configured
into five separate venues for smaller exhibitions, banquets,
special events or conferences.
THE VENUE
It’s not called the Grand Ballroom for nothing
The magnificent, multi-functional 2000m2 Grand Ballroom is
delicately bathed in natural light. It can also be divided according
to a 60-40 ratio by means of soundproof partitioning. And,
although the aesthetics are designed to take full advantage of
the view, motorised vertical blinds do allow for blackout.
The venue is serviced from two dedicated kitchens situated
on either side of the room. This allows for speed of service
when the entire venue is in use. The 60-40 configuration would
therefore see each individual room with its own kitchen.
More room to move
The Roof Terrace Room situated on Level 2 has spectacular
views of Table Mountain. Natural light flows into the room from
three sides of the venue, and motorised blinds allow for blackout.
The Roof Terrace Room includes a dedicated foyer and exterior
terrace, making this prime space highly flexible.
The Registration Foyer is a spacious area dedicated to the
efficient registration of large numbers of conference delegates.
Ideally located off the Main Foyer on the ground floor, this
flexible space can be easily adapted to suit particular needs.
The CTICC’s main foyer leads off Convention Square, a grand
piazza that looks out over the Roggebaai Canal and the
ArabellaSheraton Grand Hotel. Convention Square links the
road network to the centre’s walkways and parking areas as
well as the Roggebaai Canal embarkation point.
Future flexibility
The Cape Town International Convention Centre is already
thinking ahead. In 2007 the exhibition area will be expanded
to include a further 1200m2. Adjacent to Hall 4, this additional
space will allow for breakout sessions for large conventions,
dinner and lunch parties or exhibitions. Facilities and services
will naturally match the exacting standards of the CTICC.
The art of conferencing
There are also four flexible Meeting Rooms, each accommodating up to 330 delegates. The Meeting Rooms are subdivisible and can be set up for a variety of seating configurations.
The thirteen Meeting Suites are well equipped and vary in size,
accommodating up to 25 delegates. Many of these suites are
glass fronted, and overlook the bustle of the Exhibition Halls.
They double as private viewing boxes or VIP suites, broadcasting
or pressrooms. These venues are most-often used as Speakers’
Preparation rooms and Organizers’ Offices.
A diverse number of dedicated conservatories and landings
complement the meeting requirements of event organisers.
The Convention Centre’s two multifunctional restaurants are
the Strelitzia and the Jasminum. Both are accessible from
several venues and the exhibition halls and are adjacent to the
Clivia, Strelitzia and Jasminum conservatories.
More than just a striking façade
The interior of the Cape Town International Convention Centre
reflects the city beyond. Modern, tranquil, and welcoming, this
floating space creates an atmosphere of ‘African Zen’. Generous
conservatories are flooded with natural light and surrounded
by indigenous flora. These relaxing, less formal settings are
perfect for viewing of exhibits, cocktails, light lunches, a meal
on the run, or just a moment of quiet reflection in the course
of a busy conference schedule.
Bold, distinctive artworks that express African and Cape
essences ensure that the centre is not only technologically
sophisticated but also aesthetically pleasing. The striking 28metre wide and nearly 8-metre high relief sculpture in the Main
Foyer, entitled Baobabs, Stormclouds, Animals and People, is
a collaboration between the late San artist Tuoi Stefaans
Samcuia and award-winning artist Brett Murray. It reflects the
rich diversity of South African culture and brings into focus the
qualities that make Cape Town historically and culturally unique.
The second major artwork, Reservoir, is a vast two-piece
sculpture by well-known local sculptor Gavin Younge. One
portion comprises suspended vessel-like forms, woven from
wire and metal strapping. The second piece consists of woven
wooden boat hulls situated in the foyer of Auditorium I. Hidden
speakers broadcast the life stories of people from Cape Town,
South Africa, Africa and elsewhere in the world in a telling
reflection of the region’s cultural heritage.
Access for the disabled
The CTICC has been designed around its visitors, including the
disabled. The complex features international standard wheelchair
access, designated drop-off points and parking bays, toilets for
the physically challenged and elevators with Braille inscription.
In fact, in 2004, the centre hosted Access, an International
Conference on Partnership in Disability, as well as the sixth
General Assembly of the World Blind Union.
THE VENUE
Technology: at your fingertips
The Cape Town International Convention Centre combines
aesthetics with supreme functionality. The highly sophisticated
IT network with its fibre optic backbone, includes some 1800
CAT5e data points located across the exhibition halls, meeting
rooms and public spaces. This infrastructure is used to offer
a host of technology services which include secure broadband
internet. Every corner of the CTICC is also covered by separate
wireless networks.
Remote control touch panels in certain venues allow event
organisers to control light levels, blinds, and projection screens.
Should a power failure occur, emergency back-up generators
guarantee an uninterrupted power supply.
Service and quality: a great Cape tradition
The staff at the Cape Town International Convention Centre
are a committed team, aided by a sophisticated infrastructure,
and cutting edge technology. This is enhanced by the excellent
reputation of the operating company, the Dutch RAI Group,
which has extensive international experience in all facets of
the facility’s operation.
The CTICC is supported by the qualified expertise of professional,
preferred suppliers who complement the core services of the
centre. These incorporate a full range of services from audiovisual and IT, to rigging and security.
A choice of restaurants on the menu
Delegates and visitors also have the option of visiting the
CTICC’s two informal restaurants, the Jasminum and Strelitzia,
or the privately-owned Marimba Restaurant, a vibrant eatery
offering a combination of African and world cuisine. At the
Marimba, guests can tune in to the vibrant beat of live jazz
music, or take in the commanding city and mountain views
from the outdoor terrace.
The Cape Town Convention Centre has been provisionally
booked for the period 9 - 14 September 2012, and the following
venues have been secured:
•
Auditorium 11
•
25 Breakaway rooms for parallel sessions
•
The Roof Terrace
•
Executive Boardroom
•
Sub-divisible Exhibition Hall 1
•
Strelitzia and Jasminium Conservatories
•
Foyer areas for registration
Effectively this reservation enables the organisers to cater for
a conference up to 10 000 persons, or to scale down if required.
In addition the adjacent Westin Grand Cape Town Arabella
Quays Hotel has excellent conferencing facilities and would
be available to be booked should additional venue space be
required.
We believe the venue is one of the most modern and suitable
that exists, and its light and airy interior, coupled with ideal
location, make it an ideal venue for the IAC conference in 2012.
The Cape Town International Convention Centre’s catering
division is managed by a team of talented, internationally trained
chefs. They will help customise any menu you can imagine –
and perhaps some you can’t. Running the length of the centre,
the kitchen facilities are the largest and most advanced in the
Western Cape. Dedicated lifts from the kitchen to each venue
allow for every event to be catered for with efficiency, flair and
friendliness.
pre and post tours
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3
4
6
5
1. Durban Beachfront
2. Drakensberg
3. Cosmopolitan Vibe
4. Lion, One of Big Five of South Africa
5. Kruger National Park
6. Zulu Dancers
PRE AND POST TOURS
South Africa is a long-haul destination for most international delegates. As such it makes sense to combine a trip to South Africa
with a visit to one or more of the magnificent destinations that are on offer. From spectacular beaches to superb wildlife experiences,
from deserts to one of the most stunning waterfalls in the world, Africa beckons with all that is great and wonderful. Here is a
small sample of tours that will be on offer. The organizers will also tailor-make itineraries on request and collaborate closely with
delegates in creating unique and special experiences
The Garden Route:
This tour traditionally commences in either Port Elizabeth or Cape Town and works
equally well in either direction. The tour visits the famed Garden Route of the eastern
Cape, with a dramatic and spectacular coastline of cliffs interspersed with endless
golden beaches, huge natural lagoons, and thick indigenous coastal forest. Inland
there are mountain passes and desert scenery and the famed Cango caves, as well
as the Addo National Park with its large elephant herds. The tour usually lasts three
nights and four days, and it is also possible to do this, and indeed any other tour,
as a self drive.
Port Elizabeth’s Bayworld offers a "must see" attraction of daily seal and dolphin
shows, fish feeding and the interesting, educational Oceanarium and Snake Park.
A Centre Of Excellence which brings together the past and the present in creating
and conserving museum collections and disseminating knowledge in a dynamic
way in order to stimulate a better understanding of humankind and its impact on
the environment. Research and Communication efforts focus on Marine Science,
Herpetology, Marine Archaeology and local history and provide cutting edge
information on the natural and cultural diversity of the Algoa Bay region and beyond.
Kruger National Park and Mpumalanga:
There are direct flights between Cape Town and Kruger International airport on the
edge of Kruger Park. Alternately, main tours commence and end in Johannesburg,
which is a major hub for many international flights. Standard tours visit the highlights
of the eastern escarpment with its waterfalls and canyons, rich mining history and
dramatic scenery. The tours then lead on to the world-renowned Kruger National
Park, which exposes travellers to the very best that Africa has to offer in terms of
wildlife experience. Stays can either be in National Park’s accommodation within
the park, or at the luxurious and pampered lodges situated in the private reserves
that adjoin the Kruger. Both experiences are unique and infinitely rewarding, and last
from three days upwards.
Northern Kwa-Zulu Natal:
This tour commences and ends in Durban. The tour encompasses the great park of
Hluhluwe-Umfolozi with the world’s greatest concentration of white and black rhino,
as well as being home to the big five. Then there is a visit to a traditional village to
experience the history and rich tapestry of culture of the proud Zulu nation. There
is also a visit to the World Heritage site of Greater St Lucia wetland park, whilst in
Durban there is a visit to the Sharks Board and to the uShaka Marine World.
PRE AND POST TOURS
At the end of Durban’s Golden Mile is the beginning of a new world of fun,
entertainment and excitement. uShaka Marine World, spanning over 15 hectares
of prime beach front, is Africa’s largest Marine Theme Park. uShaka incorporates
fresh and sea water, lush vegetation, natural materials and the recreation of a 1920’s
cargo ship wreck into a magical world of sea and marine life. Operating as a multifaceted African Theme Park including Sea World, a retail village, a Wet & Wild Park
and the administrative offices of SAAMBR & ORI.
Namibian Spectacular:
Namibia is a country of superlatives, from the mighty Fish River canyon to the highest
dunes in the world near Sossusvlei, from cosmopolitan cities like Swakopmund and
Windhoek to extraordinary national parks like Etosha. This is a land of splendid
contrasts, where the overall impression is of vast open spaces and an endless African
sky. Tours are available ex Cape Town, Johannesburg or Windhoek and average
duration is 7-10 days.
Botswana’s Okovango Delta:
Possibly the finest scenery for wildlife in Africa. Pristine and primeval Africa is offset
by superb private lodges where you can experience the best of the African wilderness.
Any trip to the Okovango is unforgettable and life-changing. Packages depart
Johannesburg and Cape Town and normally are a minimum of three days, although
travellers can extend to spend time at a number of distinctly different lodges. The
Okovango is a vast wetland in the Kalahari Desert where the desert is transformed
into a wildlife paradise, and as such water-based and land packages make for a unique
blend of experiences.
Tropical Paradises:
South Africans have known for many years of the most wonderful tropical island
destinations on their doorstep, enough to make the Caribbean or Pacific quite
ordinary. These special island destinations are just a flight away from South Africa.
Whether it’s the stunning Seychelles with its wonderful beaches or magical Mauritius
with its pampered five star luxury or the outdoor adventure and French-cuisine of
Reunion with its active volcano, to the underwater coral reefs of the Bazaruto
archipelago in Mozambique, all are easily in reach of South Africa as affordable and
extraordinary tropical getaways. Packages can be tailor-made to suit budget and
length of stay.
Stopovers en route:
Many international flights pass through the gateway of Johannesburg. This is a city
that should not be missed as a stopover package en route to Cape Town. A wide
variety of tours and excursions are possible and these include cultural tours to the
township of Soweto, to the Apartheid Museum and Constitution Hill to relive South
Africa’s recent political history, to Gold Reef City for a replica mining village of early
Johannesburg, a city tour to experience the enormouscultural and architectural
richness of the city, a visit to the Rhino and Lion Reserve north of the city or the De
Wildt Cheetah rehabilitation Centre, the Elephant Sanctuary to get up close and
personal with elephants including a ride on the back of an elephant, Sun City with
its Las Vegas feel and great Pilanesberg National Park, or a tour of Pretoria and the
Cullinan diamond mine. Johannesburg is a destination in its own right, cosmopolitan
and up beat. Do not miss it.
1
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1. Drakenstein, Stellenbosch 4. Whale
2. Pezula Golf Course,Knysna 5. Boulders Beach Penguins
3. Kleingenot, Franschoek
6. Postberg, West Coast
BestCities Global Alliance
Best Practices. Best Meetings. BestCities
YOUR CONNECTION TO SERVICE
Make your convention a BestCities.net experience
BestCities is a global convention bureau alliance that delivers the best professional practices and services to congress
planners. In an industry known for its wide range of services and standards, BestCities promises clients quality, expertise
and professionalism. The Alliance has established the industry’s first global client Service Charter to guarantee meeting
planners and association executives service levels built around reliability, assurance, innovation, empathy and responsiveness.
The Alliance comprises 8 members: Cape Town, Copenhagen, Dubai, Edinburgh, Melbourne, San Juan, Singapore, and
Vancouver.
Attractive first-class destinations
BestCities destinations have international recognition, a
rich historical and cultural depth, as well as a high standard
of living. All of these friendly, English-speaking cities are
known for comfort, cleanliness and safety. They are vibrant
destinations that feature great natural beauty, striking
waterfronts, major tourist attractions, lively arts scenes,
first-rate hotels, fine dining, and world-class shopping.
Easy Access
Delegates have easy access to all BestCities destinations
from major international airports. Our airports are all
conveniently located to the city centres. The destinations
are geographically diverse, yet equal in their ability to offer
congress delegates a variety of interesting and exciting
activities. All eight cities are easy to get around in with
most major attractions, hotels, restaurants, and meeting
venues just a short walk from each other.
World-class facilities
BestCities destinations all have state-of-the-art convention
facilities, many of which are surrounded by at least 10 000
hotel rooms. Every city’s amenities are within walking
distance complemented by quick, and safe public
transportation systems.
Become a BestCities client and enjoy the benefits of working with eight of the most progressive convention bureaux
in the world!
www.bestcities.net
Conclusion:
We sincerely hope that our
proposal meets with the
committee’s expectations,
allowing us to host the 2012
IAC Congress in one of the most
beautiful cities in the world.
Dr Patrick A Garratt
Managing Director
Two Oceans Aquarium
PRODUCED BY
Should you require any additional
information please contact:
Jillian Grindley-Ferris
Brand & Business Manager
Two Oceans Aquarium
P O Box 50603
Waterfront
8002
Tel: +27 21 4183823
Fax: +27 21 4183952
E mail: [email protected]
7th Floor
Waldorf Building
St. George’s Mall
Cape Town 8001
Private Bag X9108
Cape Town 8000
Tel +27 21 487 4800
Fax +27 21 487 4801
[email protected]
www.tourismcapetown.co.za
To the best of our knowledge all information that is included in this communication was correct at time of publication. However, information is subject to change and Cape Town
Routes Unlimited can under no circumstances accept liability for innacurate information conveyed. E&OE. Copyright c 2008 Cape Town Routes Unlimited. All rights reserved.