The global conundrum of ‘international travel’ certainly has us spinning. When can travellers again travel the world without the uncertainties of last-minute postponements and cancellations?
Some innovative industry leaders are trying to make sure that planning your next safari is stress and risk-free. Leading the pack, African Bush Camps (ABC), a luxury safari operator spanning 16 properties across Botswana, Zambia, and Zimbabwe, is giving guests the opportunity to book their ideal bush getaway without an instant hit to their bank balance.
ABC recently released its updated terms and conditions which enables you to confirm your booking now at a zero deposit rate. Bookings need to be finalised with a 20 percent deposit on or before 1 August 2020.
Like many hospitality operators, ABC had to face the challenges brought by the COVID-19 regulations. The operator had to limit its workforce capacity (although they managed to keep everyone on the payroll), hunker down, and welcome new guests in August 2020. Tourism has been served a hard knock, but the load may be just as heavy for those outside our industry. “It is important for us to encourage our guests to continue their plans and look forward to returning to Africa and its people,” says Beks Ndlovu, ABC CEO and professional safari guide. “Continuing to build confidence in African tourism is essential for the survival of our industry. The prosperity of our communities and wildlife conservation depends on it. We are taking this time to rejuvenate our properties and prepare Africa for guests’ return.”
The end of ABC’s ‘curl up’ period aptly marks the opening of ABC’s new Botswana camp, Khwai Leadwood.
ABC has also taken measures to assist guests who have settled their bookings during the lockdown. The company will shift their travel dates out for another 12 months at no additional charge.
Currently, while staff and guides report for work, ABC relies on their team to act as custodians of wildlife and influence surrounding communities’ support of conservation. During pre-lockdown operations, ABC partnered with its Foundation and donated USD10 per bed booked per night for the Foundation’s 42 community projects. These projects include feeding schemes at local schools, educational funding, and the construction of classrooms and health care centres, getting income-generating initiatives off the ground, and helping communities become self-sustainable. During the lockdown, the Foundation continues its work in the communities by helping to maintain the continuity of essentials services including the provision of drinking water.
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