Category: Uncategorized

  • Maximise Your Membership: How Points Top-Ups Can Elevate Your Holidays

    Maximise Your Membership: How Points Top-Ups Can Elevate Your Holidays

    Looking for your perfect holiday getaway, only you’re short on points? 

    Our points top-up feature is here to change that! This flexible and convenient option lets you add points to your portfolio whenever needed to secure that dream booking without the wait.

    What is the Points Top-Up Option?

    We introduced our Points Top-Up feature a few years ago, and many of our members are still discovering just how valuable it can be. We designed it to give you flexible holiday booking options and more control over your timeshare experience.Whether short on points or planning something extra special, a top-up lets you bridge the gap and make it happen — no limits, no delays.

    Why Top Up Your Points?

    Topping up is a smart strategy to maximise your membership and take full advantage of your timeshare holiday benefits. Here’s how it works in your favour:

    • More Points = More Holidays – Access premium resorts and longer stays.
    • Extend Your Vacation – Add a few extra nights or upgrade to a larger unit.
    • Secure the Stay You Want – Don’t put your plans on hold—top up vacation points and book immediately.

    When and How Can I Top Up My Points?

    You can top up your points any time you’re short on the required amount for a booking. Contact our Reservations Team, who’ll assist with pricing and adding points to your portfolio.It’s a simple, hassle-free process designed with your convenience in mind. There’s no cap on the points you can top up, and you can use them immediately.

    Bonus: Instant Time Bookings for Last-Minute Getaways

    Short on points, but hoping for a spontaneous break? Our Instant Time Bookings allow you to book within 3 weeks of check-in using your remaining points on file!

    Instant Time Bookings are available at the following select resorts:

    Crystal Springs | Sudwala Lodge | Mabalingwe Nature Reserve | Ngwenya Lodge | Sandy Place | Kridzil | Caribbean Estate | Little Eden | Monateng Safari Lodge | Manzi Monate | Mount Amanzi | Uvongo River Resort | Baywater Village

    Subject to Availability. Peak Seasons Excluded.

    Make the Most of Your Membership

    Topping up your points gives you the freedom and flexibility to plan more holidays. It allows you to book longer stays, visit more resorts, or simply avoid missing out on availability.

    • Top up anytime
    • Enjoy premium perks
    • Travel when and where you want

    Instant Time Bookings allow you to plan spontaneous breaks at selected resorts with points you have on file.

    Ready to Make Your Dream Breakaway Happen?

    Contact our Reservations Team today to enquire about pricing to top up your points and plan your next unforgettable getaway!

    012 492 1230 | reservations@rhservices.co.za

  • Bucket List: 2024 Trip to Kwa-Zulu Natal

    Bucket List: 2024 Trip to Kwa-Zulu Natal

    KwaZulu-Natal, located in south-eastern South Africa, is a diverse and vibrant province known for its rich cultural heritage, stunning landscapes, and exciting activities. The warm coastal climate and beautiful beaches make it a popular destination for tourists seeking both natural beauty and cultural experiences. Here’s our bucket list for planning your next trip to KZN:

    1. Visit the Drakensberg Mountains

     The region is known for its stunning landscapes, rich biodiversity, and outdoor recreational opportunities. Explore the breathtaking landscapes of the Drakensberg Mountains during your visit to Kwa-Zulu Natal, including the Amphitheatre and Tugela Falls, which is one of the highest waterfalls in the world.

    2. Explore iSimangaliso Wetland Park

    Discover the diverse ecosystems of iSimangaliso, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The park is one of the country’s most diverse and ecologically significant areas, encompassing a variety of ecosystems including wetlands, beaches, and coastal forest.

    3. Adventures in the Valley of a Thousand Hills

    The Valley of a Thousand Hills is a picturesque region characterised by rolling hills, lush greenery, and the meandering flow of the Umgeni River. Experience outdoor activities like zip-lining, hiking, and hot-air ballooning for a memorable holiday in Kwa-Zulu Natal.

    4. Scuba Diving in Aliwal Shoal

    For diving enthusiasts, explore the diverse marine life at Aliwal Shoal. It is recognised as one of the top dive sites in the world, offering incredible marine life, coral reefs, and the opportunity to explore a shipwreck. Aliwal Shoal offers an exciting and rewarding underwater experience with its marine life and fascinating underwater landscapes.

    5. Enjoy uShaka Marine World

    uShaka Marine World offers a wide range of attractions, making it a popular destination for families, tourists, and locals alike. It provides a unique blend of entertainment, education, and conservation efforts, creating a memorable experience for visitors of all ages.

    Remember to consider your interests and preferences when planning your bucket list for KwaZulu-Natal, as the province offers a wide range of activities for nature lovers, adventure seekers, history enthusiasts, and cultural explorers alike.

  • HOT NEWS! Members save 7% on their Management Fee when paying before 31 December 2023.

    HOT NEWS! Members save 7% on their Management Fee when paying before 31 December 2023.

    Have you ever considered paying your Management Fees early? Payment of your yearly fees in advance has the potential to deliver substantial cost savings and give your annual vacation plans the kickstart they need for the best possible outcomes. Paying your fees early means you are well-prepared to take advantage of the biggest range of holiday options, well in advance, just like the proverbial Early Bird! Once your annual fee has been paid, you are free to search and secure holidays that are bound to be the highlight of your loved ones’ calendars. Don’t delay your holiday enjoyment a moment longer!

    Reasons why you should consider paying your Management (or Membership) Fees early:

    • Financial Planning and Budgeting: Early payment allows for better budgeting and planning as you can account for the expense ahead of time and allocate funds accordingly in your budget.
    • Avoiding Late Fees: Paying early helps you avoid any potential late fees or penalties that may be incurred if you miss the due date for the management fee.
    • Peace of Mind: Knowing that your management fee is paid early can provide peace of mind and alleviate concerns about missing payments or dealing with last-minute transactions.
    • Favourable Relationship with the Club: Early payments demonstrate your commitment and responsibility as a member, potentially fostering a positive relationship with your vacation club and its staff.
    • Secure Reservations and Services: Early payment secures your reservations and access to services, especially during peak seasons when availability might be limited.
    • Priority Access and Benefits: Some clubs may offer perks, bonuses, or priority access to reservations, amenities, or events to members who consistently pay their fees early.
    MDC 2024 Member Exclusive!

    We have four amazing perks for you! As an MDC member, if you pay your 2024 Management Fees by 31 December 2023, you will:

    1. Receive a 7% discount on the raised Management Fee
    2. Automatically be entered into a draw to have your 2024 Management Fee credited
    3. Be entitled to a free midweek holiday in 2024
    4. Enjoy early access to Club points and availability on your 2024 bookings

    We want to enhance your Club membership experience!

    If it’s something you can do, why say no?

  • Top Reasons To Visit Kilifi, Kenya

    Top Reasons To Visit Kilifi, Kenya

    Kilifi is a coastal town in Kenya’s Coast Province. It is located approximately 30km south of the country’s capital, Nairobi. The town sits on the northern end of the Kilifi Lake and has developed into an important fishing settlement. Kilifi is also well-known for its many beaches and dune system, which have helped establish it as a popular tourist destination in East Africa. Its natural beauty attracts thousands of visitors every year who come to explore its culture, see its famous landmarks, shop at its markets, or simply relax by one of its gorgeous beaches. Read on to know more about why you should plan a trip to Kilifi.

    Things to do in Kilifi, Kenya

    Kilifi is an excellent destination for travellers who want to experience the culture and lifestyle of the local populace. Visitors can experience the local cuisine, visit local markets, tour local historical landmarks, and much more. The many activities in and around Kilifi make it a great destination for anyone looking to relax or explore. The lake and surrounding regions are great places to go boating and fishing, or simply to walk around and admire the natural beauty of the area. The coastal areas of the town are especially beautiful and make for excellent walks or boat rides. Attractions in and around Kilifi include the Church of All Saints, Kilifi Castle, Kilifi Lake, and the Eastern Gap, a series of cliffs in the Eastern Gap.

    Kilifi is also known for its lush vegetation and wildlife. The surrounding areas are home to a variety of wildlife, including monkeys, birds, and even elephants. There are several nature reserves in the area, including the Arabuko-Sokoke Forest, which is one of the largest remaining fragments of coastal forest in East Africa and a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve.

    Beaches in Kilifi

    Kilifi is a coastal town with many beaches, and a number of these are often crowded with tourists. The beaches in Kilifi are known for their white sand and clear, turquoise waters. Popular beaches in the area include Kilifi Beach, Bofa Beach, and Watamu Beach. Many of these beaches offer a variety of water-based activities, including swimming, snorkeling, and water sports. There are also a number of beachfront restaurants and bars where visitors can relax and enjoy the local cuisine. Other beaches in the region include Malindi Beach and the Malindi Nile Beach. Malindi Nile Beach is probably the best place to go swimming in the region, as it has clean waters and is usually less crowded than the other beaches.

    Historical landmarks

    There are a number of historical landmarks in Kilifi that travellers can experience while in the town. One of the most famous landmarks in Kilifi is the Church of All Saints, which was built in 1911. The church is famous for its colourful architecture and is a popular tourist attraction in the area. Nearby is the Kilifi Castle, which was built in the late 19th century. The castle is not open to the public, and is therefore not as well-known as the Church of All Saints.

    Museums in Kilifi

    There are a number of museums in Kilifi that visitors can visit. One of the best is the Kilifi Development Museum, which is a great place to learn about the town’s history, heritage, and culture. The museum is located in the centre of town, and is easily accessible by car. Another popular museum in the area is the Kilifi Lakes and Wetlands Museum, which features a number of exhibits on the ecology of the region, and the importance of the wetlands to the local economy. The museum is located on the edge of Lake Kilifi, and is easily accessible by boat. The Mnarani Ruins are another popular attraction. This is an ancient Swahili settlement that dates back to the 14th century. Visitors can explore the ruins, learn about the history of the area, and take in the stunning views of the coastline. Apart from these museums, there are also several other smaller museums and galleries around the town that travellers can visit.

    Market day in Kilifi

    The main market day in Kilifi is Friday, where local vendors set up shop on the streets of the town and sell a variety of goods. The market is a great opportunity to sample the cuisine of the region, and is also a great way to meet the local populace and culture. One of the most popular items at the market is the damask cloth, which is a woven fabric made from the fibres of the sorghum plant. The cloth is considered to be a regional specialty, and locals often wear it as a form of traditional dress. Another popular item at the market is the pombe, or corn beer, which is an alcoholic beverage made from sorghum. Traditionally, pombe is made in large earthenware pots, and is sometimes mixed with other beverages to make cocktails.

    Why you should stay in Kilifi

    Kilifi is a great place for travellers looking for a unique experience. It is a town that combines the natural beauty of the lake and dunes with the culture and food of the region, and is therefore a great place to relax and enjoy. The town’s natural beauty makes it an excellent place to go hiking or simply exploring, and the historic landmarks and museums offer visitors an opportunity to learn about the region. Most visitors to Kilifi will want to take advantage of the town’s many attractions and activities. Because of this, it may be a good idea to plan a trip to Kilifi around a few weeks of vacation. This will allow you to easily see all of the town’s most popular attractions.

    Mnarani Beach Club

    Mnarani Club is the perfect base from which to explore the surrounding beauty of Kilifi, Kenya, while enjoying the homely comforts that guests can experience at the Resort. Located on a private island that is connected by a bridge to the mainland, Mnarani Club offers a private beach, comfortable rooms and delectable dining experiences at their onsite Restaurant. Club members can now use their points to book a well-deserved escape to this island retreat, or visit the Mnarani Club website to take a look at their cash offers and specials!

    Kilifi is a small coastal town in Kenya’s Coast Province that combines the natural beauty of the region with the culture and food of the local populace. The town is a popular tourist destination, with many activities and attractions that make it an excellent place to relax and enjoy. When traveling from South Africa to Kilifi, it is important to make sure that you have all the necessary travel documents, including a valid passport and visa. You should also take necessary precautions to ensure your safety, such as being aware of your surroundings, taking steps to protect your belongings, and avoiding areas that are known to be dangerous.

    It is always a good idea to research the latest travel information and health guidelines before traveling to Kilifi, to make sure that you have a safe and enjoyable trip.

  • The best breakfast recipes for your self-catering holiday

    The best breakfast recipes for your self-catering holiday

    Make the most of your self-catering kitchen on holiday with these easy breakfast recipes. Breakfast is the most important meal of the day, and with a good breakfast in, you’ll be able to tackle the day and make the most of every moment.

    EASY BREAKFAST BOARD

    This quick and simple breakfast board is the perfect fuss-free breakfast or weekend brunch.

    Cook time: 20 minutes  |  Assembly time: 10 minutes  |  Serves 6 – 8

    Breakfast board items:

    • Pastries (waffles, croissants, muffins, bagels, danish pastries, etc)
    • Eggs (boiled, scrambled, fried or poached)
    • Bacon
    • Cold meats
    • Yogurt (little pots or big container) with compote
    • Cheese (cream cheese, cheddar, goats cheese, etc)
    • Jams and spreads
    • Fresh Fruit

    Instructions:

    1. Prepare the hot foods.
    2. Assemble the board and serve immediately.

    Tip: Try a theme such as ‘flapjacks’ or ‘omelettes’ to choose your selection of delicious eats and find suitable pairings.

    Recipe adapted from www.simply-delicious-food.com

     

    Make-Ahead French Toast Bake

    This delicious recipe is like having dessert for breakfast!

    Prep time: 20 minutes  |  Cook time: 40 minutes  |  Serves 6 – 8

    Ingredients:

    • 1 loaf of bread
    • 8 large eggs
    • 3 cups milk
    • 1 teaspoon vanilla
    • ½ teaspoon cinnamon
    • dash of salt
    • maple syrup

    Instructions:

    1. Prep a casserole dish with butter or cooking spray.
    2. Arrange bread slices in 2 rows, overlapping slices.
    3. In a large bowl, combine the eggs, milk, vanilla, cinnamon and salt, and beat with a fork until blended.
    4. Pour mixture over the bread slices, making sure all are covered evenly with the milk-egg mixture. Spoon some of the mixture in between the slices.
    5. Cover and refrigerate overnight.
    6. The next morning, preheat oven to 170°C . Bake for 40 minutes, until puffed and lightly golden.
    7. Serve with maple syrup.

    Recipe adapted from: www.vistana.com/

     

    Breakfast Pizza

    Pizza for breakfast?! YES PLEASE!

    Cook time: 35 minutes  |  Serves 2

    Ingredients:

    • 300g pork sausages
    • 8 slices bacon (cut in half)
    • 8 eggs (beaten)
    • 2 medium pizza crusts (store-bought or handmade)
    • 2 cups of shredded cheese (preferably cheddar)
    • 1 cup thinly sliced onions
    • chopped flat leaf parsley
    • salt
    • black pepper

    Instructions:

    1. Preheat the oven to 200°C
    2. Brown the sausage, bacon and onions in a large skillet until cooked through (10-15 minutes). Spoon out and set aside.
    3. Remove access fat from the pan. Scramble eggs, parsley and seasoning in the pan. Stir while cooking until eggs are just set.
    4. Place pizza crusts on pizza pans or a baking sheet and top with half of the shredded cheese.
    5. Bake the pizza crusts for 3-5 minutes until cheese is melted.
    6. Top crusts with the cooked eggs, sausage, bacon, onions and the remaining cheese
    7. Bake until cheese is melted.
    8. Garnish with additional parsley.

    Recipe adapted from: www.yummly.com/

  • Where to go, what to do?

    Where to go, what to do?

    With many countries slowly awaking from lockdown hibernation, tourists will be set on heading out to their favourite holiday destinations as the festive season fast approaches. Of course, there is still a sense of apprehension hanging over us all as we persevere in the efforts to keep ourselves and fellow South Africans safe, and for many of us, this cautious approach to life is exactly why an overseas holiday is on the cards.

    If you find yourself in a bit of a destination dilemma, this little piece of info could prove to be rather beneficial. Why do you ask? Well, because there are countries which you can travel to and enjoy, safely, of course!

    Here are the countries that you can visit as per Head Out Blog who constantly update everything you need to know about the countries which are safe to travel to.

    Perhaps you have some reservations about flying? That is totally understandable as being in close proximity with others is what we’ve been warned to stay away from, and an aeroplane is not very conducive for that. Well, there are a few pointers you should take note of:

    • It may be a good idea to travel domestically first, before heading abroad. This is just to ensure that you are comfortable with the notion of flying again, as well as being in close proximity to others. It’s a good practice run to ensure you’re ready to wear a mask for a long period of time, and the importance of hand sanitisers and getting familiar with airline protocols.

    It is so important to keep yourself in the loop of protocols put in place at popular tourist sites and other destinations, too.

    • Did you know that more than 45% of tourist attractions around the world have switched the purchasing of tickets from waiting in queues to an online system, in order to enforce social distancing and adhere to capacity regulations?

     

    For those of us travelling out of South Africa to other destinations around the world, you need to know a few important things before you jet set around the world.

    • You may have to take a COVID-19 PCR test before you depart, as well as provide certain documents outlining the requirements of your destination.
    • All passengers must comply with the COVID-19 rules and requirements of the chosen destination. You will have to provide a negative COVID-19 PCR test from an accredited laboratory.
    • Whether you are travelling internationally or domestically, you must present a completed Travel Health Questionnaire.
    • Certain countries may insist on quarantine or self-isolation periods. Be sure to gather all the necessary information about your destination before making reservations.

    Important before, during and after travel tips:

    • You should not travel if you are feeling unwell before your trip. Even if your symptoms are different and not entirely related to COVID-19, you will increase the chance of being denied the opportunity to board the aircraft or being quarantined if your illness is discovered during your flight, at entrances and exits, as well as various screening points.
    • Due to various health and safety protocols such as physical distancing, mask wearing and additional hygiene measures you must be prepared for delays and waiting. For example, if a certain number of people are allowed on a bus or train, expect delays. Be prepared to re-route at times, queue while adhering to physical distancing measures and so forth. Preparation is key!
    • Once your travels are done and dusted and you’ve landed on home soil, you must head straight home. Do also try to limit using public transport, especially if you’re feeling under the weather. Monitor how you feel after arriving home – remember, travelling comes with quite a significant amount of fatigue, jetlag and so forth. Therefore it is important to constantly check up on yourself and if you do feel unusual, don’t hesitate to contact a health professional. Early detection means early diagnosis and early diagnosis means more time to heal.
    • You should regularly check in on trusted sources for any updates and changes to your destinations protocols, as well as those of South Africa. (So many things can change in the course of a week that new regulations, such as self-isolating or the amendments to the list of risk countries can be changed.)

    While this is a time to be cautious and vigilant in your actions, remember you are still going on holiday and for most of us, a long awaited one. Try not to become apprehensive about your travels. Remember, stress on the immune system produces a hormone called Cortisol and too many of these spurts can lead to inflammation in the body. In turn this leads to you feeling under the weather, which is not how you want to feel when heading out on holiday! So rather than self- inducing adversity, remain calm and organised as you prepare to seize the day!

  • On The Road Again

    On The Road Again

    Don’t stop believing: the journey has begun once again!

     

    Wow, what a year it’s been! Nine months into 2020 and we’ve chartered some treacherous waters; taking on, not just the odd billow here and there but facing a full-on tsunami. However, we’re now seeing some respite after the initial storm and finally, a glimmer of sunshiny hope has penetrated through the cloudy skies (yes, we’re seeing clearly now)!

    As inter-provincial leisure travel has opened up, we now have the opportunity to get out there and wave adieu to those cabin fever blues! You now have the chance to explore the country like never before.

    The travel possibilities are endless… so if you’re thinking about getting in touch with the open road again, here are a few road-tripping experiences you should try out or jot down as a ‘must’ on your bucket-list.

    The Solo Roadie

    This is a must-do for everyone who values time for themselves. This is the kind of road trip that allows you to get slightly lost as you navigate your way through the adventure. This kind of roadie is the right one for you if you’ve felt overwhelmed and cooped up with family over the lockdown period – don’t feel bad about going solo. We all need some ‘me-time’ and when we take time out to restore ourselves, then we are able to give of our very best, to our families and to our work responsibilities. Take this time to reflect on the moments in your life which have meaning to you. Remember when Dad actually allowed you to drive all the way from the tiny town you grew up in to the big city, where you started university? Moments like those taught you how to be brave and how to face the unknown – a valuable lesson: growing older and changing is not as daunting as you thought.

    The Family Roadie

    This family pack combo is a deal that everyone should do regularly. If there is anything the past few months have taught us, is that family matters most. Why not cram into the car, let Dad drive (like the good old days), perhaps engage in a light squabble with your siblings over the song on the radio? Along the way, nibble on the ‘padkos’ Mom has packed in the overused cooler-box, etched with memories of 15 years ago. Perhaps have the whole family head out on a road trip. This is great opportunity for a family reunion with cousins, uncles, aunts, godparents and grandparents. Your kids will be given the opportunity to forge memories for a lifetime and strengthen familial bonds and traditions for their future and generations to come.

    A Partner-Up Roadie

    Why not head out on the open road with your beloved? This is a great opportunity to get to know each other better, as you explore the vast open road. Kick things up a notch by going on a slight detour – why not find a campsite to spend the night at or perhaps a charming country bed and breakfast? Why not combine each other’s bucket-lists to create the ultimate couples bucket-list list of things you would like to do with your special someone-this will allow the two of you to get out of any comfort zones and challenge yourselves in a fun, exciting way! There are so many magical memories to be made here as the two of you listen to your favourite songs and chat about the future!

    A Best Friend Roadie

    This is one for the books. Remember when you were younger and all you wanted to do was to stay over at your best friend’s house? Remember how the two of you would make plans and in an innocent tone, dictate to these master plans to your parents? Well, the great thing about being all grown up is that your best friend probably knows you the best so you’re guaranteed to have a great time. That means no unnecessary arguments or squabbling, just pure best friend shenanigans! This is the ideal time to reconnect with that forgotten childhood wander as you explore the great outdoors. En route to your destination, stop along the way, to visit little towns that you only imagined you could visit as a child. Perhaps plan a spontaneous spa day and stay over at a place along the way. Alternatively, why not book a tour of a local museum or make a point of visiting places of historical importance, for example, visit The Cradle of Humankind, a spectacular world heritage site!

    A road trip is not merely an A to B endeavour, but an adventure of familial bonding, self-discovery, and meditation. There are so many memories to be made and experiences to be enjoyed! If there is anything we need to be reminded of, is to take advantage of the travelling opportunities and make every moment count. As the popular saying goes – “Yesterday is history, tomorrow’s a mystery but today is a gift…that’s why it’s called the present.” Put the brakes on hesitation and lift off towards the blissful beauty called travel.

  • All you need to know about Leisure Travel

    All you need to know about Leisure Travel

    We have finally been given the green-light to open our Club Resorts to welcome inter-provincial travellers and we couldn’t be happier!

    Escape the hustle and bustle of busy city living and plan your next getaway to a Club Resort. What about booking a perfect coastal escape, or a fun-filled family vacation?! Why not experience that bucket-list adventure, or book that long-overdue fishing trip – after months of lockdown?! Secure a holiday at your home-away-from-home today for a much-needed break-away!

     

    Health and safety remains a top priority

    Providing a clean holiday environment for you, your family and loved ones to enjoy is our Club Resorts’ number one priority. To ensure that our Club Resorts own health and safety standards are met, as well as those enforced by government, kindly take note of the following:

    • Members and guests are required to complete up-to-date and accurate documentation with regards to their health and travel history prior to their arrival.
    • All guests and members will be subject to temperature screening at the Club Resort’s main entrance. Should the occupant of a vehicle read a temperature of 37.8°C or higher, the vehicle will not be permitted to enter the Club Resort premises.
    • In terms of the current regulations, all guests and members are requested to wear a mask in public areas at all times.
    • Sanitisation stations and sufficient hand washing facilities have been made available for use throughout our Club Resorts. We strongly recommend that guests and members keep their hands clean and refrain from touching public surfaces.
    • To adhere to social-distancing protocols, all Club Resorts’ chalets are sanitised and sealed before guests or members arrival; decorative pieces may have been removed from the unit and housekeeping will be kept to a minimum.
    • Kindly note that selected activities and facilities will remain closed and/or restricted in occupancy as our Club Resorts aim to adhere to social-distancing protocols.

    These, and other, protocols and procedures have been implemented at our Club Resorts.

    Rest assured that our Club Resorts’ dedicated teams will comply with government’s industry-specific stringent controls and measures, as well as their own health and safety protocols, to provide you with a clean holiday environment.

    Please be in touch with our Reservations Team directly for further clarification or to make a reservation: correspondence@vrs.co.za  or +27(0)12 492 1230. Keep up-to-date with new developments regarding the nationwide lockdown and five-level, risk-adjusted strategy here.

     

    Disclaimer: Please be aware that Government Regulations surrounding the South African lockdown and COVID-19 are continuously being amended and updated. As such, we remain committed to providing you with relevant communications which are accurate and reflect the latest updates at the time of publishing. These regulations are subject to change and may need to be reviewed on occasion. We thank you for your understanding.

     

     

  • We’re Open for BUSINESS stays

    We’re Open for BUSINESS stays

    Our Club Resorts teams are excited to welcome weary business travellers! We understand your need for rest and relaxation when travelling for business and look forward to your arrival, where you can expect the very best in customer service from our dedicated Club Resorts’ personnel. Enjoy the chirping of birds, a soothing warm beverages on a patio with a scenic view and appreciate all the things that you love about your favourite Club Resort during your business-related stay.

     

    What you will need:
    Each individual checking-in at a Club Resort for intra-provincial business purposes must present the following documentation at Reception, upon arrival;

    • Employer letter outlining the purpose of the business travel (Declaration on company letterhead)
    • Copy of business-travellers ID

    Each individual checking-in at a Club Resort for inter-provincial business purposes must present the following documentation at Reception, upon arrival;

    • Employer letter outlining the purpose of the business travel (Declaration on company letterhead)
    • Permit as per Form 2 of the Regulations
    • Copy of business-travellers ID

    Please remember that each person must present this documentation; no ‘accompanying travellers’ will be permitted to stay at the Club Resort without the relevant documentation.

     

    Complying with government regulations:
    Please read through the below limitations for business-related travel to a Club Resort, as outlined and enforced by government. No exceptions will be made.

    • Family (wife, husband, children or other relatives or friends) will not be permitted to accompany the business traveller to a Club Resort during a business-related stay
    • Club Resorts will not sell alcohol. Consumption of alcohol in public spaces is strictly prohibited
    • Guests must adhere to Club Resort Rules and Regulations while staying at the Resort

    Our Club Resorts remains committed to providing you with a most comfortable stay, while upholding stringent health and safety protocols. For your health and safety, as well as that of other guests and our own team, kindly take note that certain common areas will remain closed, decorative pieces have been removed and sanitation procedures implemented. These, and other protocols, have been implemented at our Club Resorts with our Members’ health in mind.

     

    Please be in touch with our Reservations Team directly for further clarification, to make a reservation or request documentation to be completed prior to your arrival: correspondence@vrs.co.za or +27 (012) 492 1230

  • The changing face of air travel in COVID-19 times

    The changing face of air travel in COVID-19 times

    What changes will COVID-19 bring next?”, the words on everyone’s lips – as if it has become a guessing game to ‘what’ will be reset to a new normal. One amongst others, and unquestionably one of the industries that will have extensive transformations, is commercial aviation. This industry is already gearing up for complete remodelling of operations. We curated a list of a few aviation trends and health and safety measures that will most likely be deployed in the post-COVID-19 world:

    Virtual Queues

    Airport queues – the bane of travellers everywhere! Well, no need to fret, this might be a thing of the past. Airports, across the globe, are gearing up and collaborating with innovative app developers to create new virtual queues. One of the best prevention measures, to avoid COVID-19 infection, is social distancing. This solution not only achieves social distancing but also provides a more streamline experience for customers. How does it work?

    • Virtual queuing works with a mobile app that you can install on your smartphone. A ticket with a designated number is assigned to each customer. This queue management system helps to avoid interacting with the kiosks, as customers will virtually keep track of their position in the queue. An SMS or notification will pop-up as soon as it’s your turn.
    • You can now wait in a safer environment, like your car, and avoid crowds, and in effects, customer flow is optimized.

    We are surely looking forward to fewer queues, more streamlined experience at airports, and to instead utilize the queuing-time to indulge in a good cup of coffee.

     

    Digital Health Passports

    The focus has shifted from assisting the masses to assessing each individual passenger’s health. The idea is to create a digital health passport. It will become compulsory for travellers to share personal data such as their age, travel history and underlying health conditions to determine each individual’s risk profile. The system will work with a QR code that is either green, yellow or red. Green means that the traveller is safe, free of the virus and is not of risk. Yellow symbolizing the need for reassessment to determine if they are safe or not to travel. Red means that the passenger is a risk, and therefore cannot proceed with the flight. The system will determine, beforehand, if you are safe for travelling, and biometrical scanners will consolidate the information to give the go-ahead.

    “Sanitagging” and Sanitising

    Sanitagging” is a new term, amongst many, developed in the world of COVID-19. What does this Coronavirus travel term mean? Well, “sanitagging” at the airport— is the process of sanitising bags and giving them a tag once the process is complete. This will be done by “fogging, electrostatic or UV-disinfection.” Another new sanitising measure, that will most likely be implemented in airport terminals, are thermal scanners and disinfection tunnels – which travellers might have to pass through before boarding the plane. Finally, in-flight janitors and deep cleaning after every flight might too become the new norm. While most of this sounds positive (who doesn’t want janitors keeping the plane sparkling clean), this will definitely also bring with it, its own difficulties.

    Touchless Travel

    Say goodbye to the armrest hog and sitting shoulder-to-shoulder next to your fellow passengers… Various airlines are already implementing the ‘fewer passengers’ or ‘leaving the middle seat empty’ policy in order for travellers to be able to keep a safe distance in the plane’s cabin. This is not the only touchless change; in airport terminals, more touchless options will come into play including – contactless fingerprint, as well as iris and face recognition. In a recent media briefing, aeroplane designers touched on further developments that are in their initial phase, including personal protective equipment (PPE) shields for individual seats.

     

     

    One thing is clear from all this: things are going to change, and probably quite a bit. What remains to be seen is just how much, and for how long. As we shift from the cloud (the virtual world of Skype) into the clouds (via plane), the question is: what will the ‘touchpoints’ along that journey look like? That being said, we can say with certainty, travelling will happen once again, as will holidays with family and friends.