New traveller's discount card launched

Exquisite Card has been created to help fill empty beds by providing holiday and business travellers with a simple and effective way of accessing the discounts usually only given to tour operators. It is aimed specifically at the increasingly large market of travellers who research their accommodation and car hire needs online, then book direct with the supplier.

The card offers reduced prices to this new kind of traveller through a discount card or voucher, which entitles the holder to +-20% discount on more than 5000 hotel, guesthouse, lodge and self-catering rooms in twelve African countries. The card or voucher is purchased through a secure e-commerce portal at www.exquisitecard.co.za, at a cost of R19 for a daily voucher, R390 for a one year card, R590 for two years. The card or voucher fee can be more than covered by the discount on just one night's accommodation, car hire or spa.

Rigorous standards

How does it work? The card holder searches the Exquisite Card website for partnering establishments and services, then books direct, stating the card or voucher number. The hotel then charges the client an average of 20% less than the published rate, payable in full prior to arrival.

An increasing number of carefully selected properties are becoming Exquisite Card partners, because it costs them nothing except 20% discount on published rates. If you're wondering, “Where's the catch?” the company says there isn't one. Hotels want more business, travellers want to pay less and Exquisite Card discounts bring the two parties together creating a win-win situation for all.

Exquisite Card has been launched by industry stalwarts Cliff Jacobs (35 years as an hotelier) and Mark Goveia (a renowned hospitality consultant). Goveia stresses that, “All establishments and partners of Exquisite Card are expected to meet rigorous standards, because today's travellers expect a high level of product and service.” The company says it welcomes enquiries from potential tourism partners and accommodation in the following categories; hotel, boutique hotel, guest house, lodge and self-catering. Email: and see the website for more details www.exquisitecard.co.za.