'Block out' of hotels, rental cars

All hotels in Gauteng will be virtually booked out until Christmas Day, Corporate Traveller, a division of Flight Centre, said on Saturday.

 

"We've been notified that due to various government and consulate arrangements, all hotels in Gauteng will be on a block out from December 6 to 25," general manager Eric Sakawsky said in a statement.

 

"As a result, very little accommodation will be available in Johannesburg and Pretoria... This should not affect bookings already confirmed and paid for."

   

Corporate Traveller said all rental car companies nationally, particularly Gauteng, were also on a block out, effective immediately.

 

This was as a result of the death of former president Nelson Mandela.

 

Sakawsky said the country was preparing for Mandela's memorial service and the hosting of many international dignitaries and state representatives.

 

-Sapa