Cape Town-based travel agents have lashed out at the Japanese Consulate in Cape Town, accusing a particular staff member of treating agents and their clients poorly and making unrealistic demands during the visa application process.
The head of a large travel agency, who wished to remain anonymous to prevent the agency being targeted, told TNW that, on one occasion, he was advised that a day-by-day detailed itinerary was “not good enough” and that a “minute-by-minute” itinerary was needed. On another occasion, the agent had two separate clients travelling to Japan for five days. “They had return tickets, proof of accommodation and proof of purchase of foreign exchange. The staff member then asked the clients for bank statements and when one of the clients went to collect his visa, which was not ready on time, the staff member made comments about how little money the client had in his bank account, not bearing in mind he had already paid for his tickets, tours, accommodation and foreign exchange.”
The Japanese Consulate in Cape Town told TNW the Embassy of Japan hadn’t received any complaints from travellers, businessmen or travel agents, adding: “We pride ourselves on always providing consistent service to all members of the public, whether they are travellers, businessmen or travel agents.”
The consulate said its main purpose was to promote co-operation between South Africa and Japan and that it valued feedback as this enabled it to better monitor its staff and the service it offers.
Have you or your clients been treated unfairly at the Japanese Consulate in Cape Town? TNW would like to hear about your experience. Post your comments on Disqus or email editor@nowmedia.co.za
