The latest updates from SAT
We are delighted to bring you this week’s edition of the Tourism Tuesdays newsletter.
From the editor's desk
It is amazing that we are now into the second month of the year.
The year is in full swing and indeed the buzz and heightened levels of activity in the global tourism sector is a good indication that we are in for another bumper year.
South Africa started off this week on a positive note with our country’s Amapiano sensation Tyla bagging a Grammy Award at Sunday’s Grammy Award ceremony in the United States of America.
On Saturday our national soccer team, Bafana Bafana, progressed to the semi-final stage of the Africa Cup of Nations Tournament after beating Cape Verde in a spectacular penalty shootout. This week South Africa is look forward to the State of the Nation Address by the country’s President Cyril Ramaphosa.
He will deliver this address on the evening of Thursday the 8th of February in a year where South Africa also celebrates 30 years of Freedom and Democracy.
With only 20 days to go until the highly-anticipated Pan African business events trade show, Meetings Africa, hosted by South African Tourism together with its bid partners, Gauteng Tourism Authority, Johannesburg Tourism Company and Sandton Convention Centre, we would like to once again extend an invite you to join us. Meetings Africa will take place from the 27th to the 28th February, preceded by the Business Opportunity Networking Day on the 26th of February at the Sandton Convention Centre in Johannesburg, South Africa.
With Valentine’s Day only a few days away, remember the best gifts are those that have to do with travel, so why don’t you surprise your loved one with a wonderful trip exploring South Africa. There is lots to do with guaranteed special memories and connections created.
South Africa prides itself with a wide variety of tourism products and experiences, as always, in this week’s edition we also share some new tourism products ready to be explored and enjoyed by travellers from various parts of the world! Tourism Regards, Tourism Tuesdays Team
South Africa vs Nigeria: Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON)
As South Africa gears up for a monumental clash against Nigeria in the semi-finals of the African Cup of Nations (AFCON) on Wednesday, the 7th of February 2024, the nation is on the brink of witnessing a football spectacle that transcends the boundaries of the pitch.
Beyond the goals and tactics, this match holds the promise of fostering deeper connections between two of Africa's economic powerhouses and cultural giants.
On the football field, South Africa faces a formidable opponent in Nigeria, a team known for its skill, resilience, and passion for the beautiful game. But as the Bafana Bafana step onto the pitch, they carry the hopes and aspirations of a nation that goes beyond the boundary lines. It is a chance for South Africa to showcase the strength that comes from unity, determination, and a collective will to succeed.
Culturally, South Africa and Nigeria are powerhouses, exporting art, music, literature, and film that captivates audiences worldwide.
This match serves as a reminder that despite the competitive nature of football, it is an avenue to celebrate the shared cultural heritage that unites the African continent. The beats of Amapiano and the rhythms of Afrobeat converge on the pitch, creating a harmonious fusion that symbolises the diversity and richness of African culture. The game is not merely about goals and victories; it is about using the platform of sport to build bridges, strengthen relationships, and propel the continent towards a future of prosperity and unity.
South Africa shines again at this year's Grammy Awards
At the age of 22, South African musician Tyla won her first Grammy Award at the 66th annual Grammy Awards, for “Best African Performance”.
Hosted by South Africa’s renowned comedian, Trevor Noah, South Africa’s presence at the Grammy Awards, once again highlighted the country’s exceptional people and showcased the diverse South African artistic talent on the world stage.
Trevor Noah was hosting the awards for the fourth time and was also nominated for “Best Comedy Album”.
South African Acapella group, Just 6, were nominated in the “Best Arrangement, Instrumental or Acapella” category, while Amapiano sensation and acclaimed producer, Musa Keys was nominated was nominated for “Best African Performance” for his collaboration with Nigerian artist Davido. South Africa boasts a colourful myriad of cultures and heritage and the country’s performance at this award ceremonies continues to add to the attraction of our destination.
As we celebrate 30 years of Freedom this year, South Africans continue to invite visitors from all over the world to come join in on the celebrations and to come experience the best of our entertain, exceptional people while exploring all the fun and multitude tourism experiences.
South African Tourism India team embarks on a massive roadshow to ignite the India market and boost arrivals to South Africa from the region
South African Tourism’s India team, in partnership with the greater tourism sector including various provincial tourism authorities, will at the beginning of next week embark on a Five City Roadshow.
The primary objective of the roadshow is to enhance awareness, promote South African Tourism, elevate destination visibility, and facilitate market penetration across the pan-India landscape.
The roadshow will introduce into the market new, diverse South African products from accommodation, adventure activity products, DMC and not forgetting to showcase the market-ready SMMEs.
Recognising the importance of the up-and-coming tier II Indian cities, the roadshow complemented by a trade event will commence in Jaipur on the 11th and 12th February 2024 and will move further to key cities such as Delhi on 13th February 2024, Ahmedabad on 14th February 2024, Bengaluru on 15th February 2024 and conclude in Mumbai on 16th February 2024.
South African Tourism has amassed a strong delegation of 42 Companies / exhibitors that will be travelling to India, these include 13 SMME’s. Notably, India has not only met but surpassed the international arrivals target for the current financial year. Between January and December 2023, South Africa welcomed 79,774 tourists from India, a 43.7% growth compared to 2022.
Africa's Mining Indaba 2023: A Catalyst for Economic Growth in Cape Town
The 30th edition of Africa's Mining Indaba is currently underway in Cape Town, South Africa, from the 5th to the 8th of February.
President Cyril Ramaphosa delivered the keynote address on Monday, setting the tone for discussions centered around the theme, "Embracing the Power of Positive Disruption: A Bold New Future for African Mining."
Beyond its primary focus on the mining industry, the event holds immense significance for the city of Cape Town, impacting its tourism value chain and overall economy.
The event's significance extends to the local tourism value chain, benefiting sectors such as hospitality, transportation, and entertainment. The influx of international and domestic delegates contributes to increased demand for accommodation, dining, and transportation services, creating a positive ripple effect throughout the city's tourism industry.
20 Days Countdown: Join us at Meetings Africa 2024!
With just 20 days to go we cannot wait to welcome you at Meetings Africa 2024. Whether you are an exhibitor, buyer, or industry professional, we invite you to be part of a meaningful event that continues to shape the narrative of the global business events sector.
Click here for more information
Africa’s Travel Indaba 2024: Registration Now Open
Registration for the much-anticipated Africa’s Travel Indaba (ATI) 2024 are open. This proudly Pan African event is scheduled to illuminate the Inkosi Albert Luthuli International Convention Centre Complex (ICC Durban), in KwaZulu-Natal from the 13th to 16th of May 2024, once again bringing together the global travel trade.
Against the backdrop of South Africa’s celebration of 30 years of freedom and democracy, Africa’s Travel Indaba 2024 is set to be a platform for reflection and celebration of all that South Africa in partnership with the rest of the African continent has achieved working together for the greater benefit of the tourism sector and the economy.
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New Products
Isijula Boutique Hotel
Situated in Westonaria, just 43,5 km from Roodepoort Country Club, Isijula Boutique Hotel offers a haven with a garden, complimentary private parking, a restaurant, and a bar.
Conveniently located approximately 45 km from attractions such as the Apartheid Museum, and Gold Reef City & Casino, the hotel ensures a well-rounded experience for its guests. In 2019, the hotel ventured into hospitality, driven by a commitment to spiritual, educational, and career growth.
This dedication culminated in the official launch on May 19, 2023. Aligned with the church roots, the hotel shares the same mission of empowerment, reflected in their thoughtfully designed rooms tailored to meet every traveller’s specific needs, providing a welcoming home away from home. Whether you're traveling with friends, in search of extra space, indulging in luxury, or on a business trip, Isijula Boutique Hotel has the perfect room for you. This exquisite property is located at, 458 Myra Avenue, Zuurbekom, Westonaria, 1787.
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Melote House at Samara Karoo Lodge
Established in 1997, the acclaimed Samara Karoo Reserve embarks on a conservation journey spanning 27 000 hectares of rejuvenated wilderness in the breathtaking and malaria-free Great Karoo region of the Eastern Cape, South Africa. This unique and authentic Big Five safari provides a profound and meaningful connection to nature, fostering a commitment to conservation.
After undergoing a meticulous 7-month renovation, the reimagined and revitalised Samara Karoo Lodge is once again open for business.
The expanded and upgraded facilities maintain the lodge's timeless charm while introducing modern enhancements. The newly designed living, dining, and learning spaces feature an atmospheric dining room, library, farm-style kitchen, Spekboom-filled courtyard, wine cellar, bar, gift shop, and an interactive Story Room that narrates Samara's past, present, and future. The carefully restored aesthetics showcase a blend of natural tones and fabrics, creating an atmosphere of understated Karoo elegance through the harmonious interplay of antiques and modern South African craftsmanship.
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Experience of the Week
Camp Canoe
This experience commands visitors to switch off, unwind, and reconnect with nature. Leave the cityscape behind and savour life's simple pleasures. Bid farewell to the shrill of alarms, greet the dawn, and be immersed in all that Boschendal Wine Estate and its surroundings have to offer. Alternatively, draw the curtains and nestle deeper into the lavish king-size bed adorned with luxury linens. Enter this realm of luxury, where every need is met, and meticulous attention to detail defines the experience. Their tents serve as the backdrop for the ideal escape from the urban hustle. Cook, soak, indulge in leisurely moments, or simply revel in tranquillity. Each tent is thoughtfully equipped with precisely what is needed for an exceptional retreat.
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Pierneef’s Kraal Guest Lodge & De Kraal Restaurant
Unlock exclusive savings with the genius discount at Pierneef's Kraal! Located in Pretoria, just 9 km from the University of Pretoria, Pierneef's Kraal offers accommodations with a shared lounge, complimentary private parking, a garden, and barbecue facilities. This family-friendly property also features a sun terrace. Guests can enjoy rooms with a patio offering garden views and free WiFi.
Each room at the guest house includes a seating area, a flat-screen TV with satellite channels, a safety deposit box, and a private bathroom with a shower. Some rooms come with a balcony, and all rooms are equipped with a kettle. Bed linen and towels are provided in each room. Breakfast is available at De Kraal Restaurant only on Wednesdays through to Sundays. For those seeking activities, guests at the guest house can partake in hiking and other enjoyable pursuits in and around Pretoria. Enjoy a delightful stay with a blend of comfort and convenience at Pierneef's Kraal.
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