On the 13th, HIP Hotels hosted a cocktail party in São Paulo with the support of Sabi Sabi Collection, Sun International, and South African Airways, aimed at travel agents and tour operators. The objective was to bring the Brazilian market closer to premium experiences in South Africa. “First of all, we have to sell South Africa. We have to sell Cape Town, Kruger, Johannesburg,” stated Iguchi during the event.
Sabi Sabi Collection as a benchmark brand
Iguchi highlighted the company's long history with the Sabi Sabi Collection: "We've been in this market for over ten years, to be more precise, fifteen years," she said. For the trade, she emphasized that Brazil has become one of the brand's priority markets. The executive also detailed the safety of the premium safari operation: "The ranger interprets signals that indicate if the animal is stressed. There are policies among the vehicles to prevent excessive proximity."
Sun International e The Palace of the Lost City
The Sun International group was presented as a strategic partner for premium hotels. “The Palace is very traditional, with 38 years of history,” stated Iguchi. She explained that the premium experience translates into an exclusive environment, restricted access, and differentiated services, such as internal transportation and high-standard gastronomy.
The Maslow System and the appeal to Brazilian agents.
The Maslow Hotel in Sandton was highlighted as a strong option for the Brazilian market. "It's the best neighborhood in the city, and you're close to the shopping mall," Iguchi emphasized, pointing to the hotel's convenience and profile. Free transportation to the mall and competitive rates are part of the offer aimed at Brazilian tourists.
South African Airways and the resumption of the direct route.
During the event, the partnership with South African Airways and the return of direct flights to Brazil were celebrated. “We are very proud of this partnership,” said Iguchi. “When they decided to resume flights, their first destination was Brazil.” The resumption is seen as a catalyst for boosting sales in the segment.
Brazil as a powerhouse in the safari segment.
Iguchi highlighted that, even while operating only in the Brazilian market, HIP Hotels has achieved significant results: "Brazil is in the top 5 in a safari region like Sabi Sabi." The executive pointed out the company's pride in participating in this movement.
HIP Hotels: A history spanning more than two decades.
At the end of the meeting, Iguchi summarized the brand's trajectory: "HIP is already 22 years old and was a pioneer in representing premium tourism products." Today, the company operates with a global portfolio, including DMCs in destinations such as India, Egypt, Morocco, Nepal, Sri Lanka, and Bhutan. "I facilitate the sale. I bring the product closer to the agency and deliver everything it needs to sell better," he concluded.
In the photo: Diogo Caldeira (South African Tourism), Mayra Iguchi (HIP Hotels), Juliana Prado (HIP Hotels) and Gabriel Gomes (South African Airways).
Reporting and photo: Mary de Aquino.