The latest updates from SAT
A word from the editor
Tomorrow people throughout the world will be celebrating Valentine’s Day and love. A travel experience remains the best gift to give. So if you still have not purchased that Valentine’s Day gift, just book a trip for you and your loved one to come explore South Africa - our country’s tourism sector remains ready all-year round to welcome guests. Whether you are looking for an award-winning restaurant for an intimate dinner or an adventure just for two or a quiet day at the spa - South Africa has it all for the ultimate expression of love and it is guaranteed to create memorable experiences.
For those in South Africa do visit www.shotleft.co.za for the best Valentine’s deals!
Last week, South Africa’s President Cyril Ramaphosa, delivered the State of the Nation Address, and amongst the issues he touched on, is the government's commitment to further bolstering safety and security measures in South Africa. This is welcome news for the tourism sector as we continue to encourage South Africans to travel their own country and indeed we invite visitors from all over the world to visit South Africa.
In this week’s issue we also look at The Tourism Grading Council of South Africa’s (TGCSA)'s collaboration with South African Tourism Services Association (SATSA) in advancing efforts to drive more inclusivity in South Africa’s tourism sector.
We also celebrate a new cohort of Chef Graduates who, no doubt, will add to South Africa’s already acclaimed culinary and gastronomy offering.
As always, we wrap up our newsletter with a showcase of more experiences and products to explore in beautiful Mzansi.
Tourism Regards
Tourism Tuesdays Team
CELEBRATING LOVE AND ROMANCE IN KWAZULU-NATAL THIS FEBRUARY
KwaZulu-Natal (KZN) will be the province of love this February – after all, we don’t only have our annual Valentine’s celebration on February 14, but this year is a leap year. That means ladies can pop down on one knee and take full advantage of that once-in-every-four-years opportunity to propose to their better halves!
Tourism KwaZulu-Natal (TKZN) suggests a few ways to celebrate romance al fresco this February: Pack a picnic: The good thing about picnics in KZN is that it is definitely not one size fits all. Interesting spots extend from enjoying sarmies on your favourite beach to dining on the top of a mountain in the Drakensberg. If you are in the port city, head off to Westville’s Palmiet Nature Reserve, Paradise Valley, the Karkloof Falls, Tala Private Game Reserve near Camperdown or Gwahumbe in mid-Illovo. The South Coast has a wide variety of picnic spots for nature lovers – including the TC Robertson, Lake Eland, Mpenjati and Umtwavuna nature reserves – as does the North Coast.
If you’re looking for a gourmet version, head to the Midlands and Hartford House near Mooi River, Hawklee Country House or Horizons Gourmet Picnics. Park off in a park: KZN has beautiful parks and gardens. Pack some refreshments, add a few board games, then settle under a cool tree for some old-fashioned fun. You can choose to go anywhere from the oldest and most beautiful garden in Durban – the Durban Botanical Gardens – to the KZN Botanical Gardens in Pietermaritzburg. Other options include the Bee and Butterfly Garden at Ballito’s Litchi Orchard and the Fables Gardens in Howick which is filled with secret corners, tunnels and even a maze.
INCLUSIVITY IS VITAL TO DRIVING TOURISM GROWTH
South African Tourism and South African Tourism Services Association (SATSA) believe South Africa could increase visitor numbers and show its commitment to inclusivity through its National Tourism Inclusivity Pledge.
The inbound association, along with SA Tourism, launched the Inclusivity Pledge at the annual SATSA Conference in May last year as part of its efforts to commit to a more inclusive tourism sector.
“South African industry players are demonstrating their commitment to equity and embracing the diverse needs of all visitors. This collective effort can help foster a welcoming environment that celebrates and respects the unique experiences and perspectives of each traveller. The pledge is a commitment by the industry to celebrate our diversity, and to become a more inclusive sector,” Bronwen Auret, Chief Quality Assurance Officer – Tourism Grading Council of South Africa (TGCSA) told Tourism Update.
“By integrating an inclusive ethos into our marketing strategies, highlighting the country's rich cultural and natural diversity, and ensuring accessibility for all, we aim to attract a wider audience. This focus on inclusivity is set to drive economic growth and social development, positioning South Africa as a destination for all,” said SATSA COO, Hannelie du Toit.
Article courtesy of Tourism update.
South Africa's Remarkable Journey at AFCON: A Triumph for National Unity and Tourism
The recently concluded African Cup of Nations (AFCON) has left an indelible mark on South Africa, both on and off the football field. As South Africa secured a commendable third-place finish, and the nation found itself not only celebrating sporting prowess but also embracing South Africa’s newfound positioning as a key player in Africa's sport ranking. South Africa's journey in the AFCON became more than just football; it evolved into a catalyst for national unity. The diverse and dynamic nation rallied behind Bafana Bafana, showcasing the power of sport to bridge cultural divides.
Congratulations to Ivory Coast for their remarkable role as gracious hosts of the AFCON.
The success of the AFCON tournament was a victory for the entire continent as once again Africa showcased its ability to host big events.
South African Tourism India team ignited excitement with show-stopping 2024 roadshow
Setting sights on one of the fastest-growing outbound travel markets around the globe, South African Tourism concluded the first chapter of its 20th Annual India Roadshow at The Lalit, Jaipur. In a bid to expand its footprint across prominent cities of India like Delhi, Ahmedabad & Mumbai ; the roadshow marked South African Tourism’s debut in the pink city. Scheduled until 16th February 2024, the multi-city event moves to Delhi today and will move to Ahmedabad on 14th February and then to Bengaluru on 15th February and will conclude in Mumbai on 16th February.
EMPOWERING CHEFS THROUGH THE RECOGNITION OF PRIOR LEARNING PROGRAMME
In a transformative ceremony at the Silwood School of Cookery located in Cape Town, twenty-five chefs graduated from the Department of Tourism's Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) program, unlocking new career prospects in the culinary industry. The RPL initiative, aligned with the Tourism Sector Human Resource Strategy, acknowledges the expertise of seasoned chefs, granting them relevant qualifications and designations.
Hosted in a bistro-style setting, the intimate graduation awarded the chefs an Occupation Certificate: Chef which in South Africa is rated at a NQF Level 5 (ARPL) qualification. Chef Olivia van Stavel, with 16 years experience in hospitality, lauded the programme for enhancing her culinary skills and providing a competitive edge for diverse career opportunities.
Since its inception in the 2021/22 financial year, the RPL program has received a significant investment of R3.1 million, benefiting 107 experienced chefs nationwide. Deputy Minister of Tourism, Fish Mahlalela, commended the graduates and emphasised the importance of their newfound skills in fostering employment opportunities within the sector.
NEW PRODUCTS
Location: Wellington, Western Cape
Website: www.kraak.co.za/kraaktafel
The KRAAKTAFEL represents an exclusive seasonal dining experience meticulously crafted and hosted by [kraak]. It is a celebration of changing seasons featuring a bespoke menu complemented by some of South Africa's finest wines. [kraak] annually organizes four LONG TABLE experiences, collaborative events with other suppliers that are KRAAK OWNED. The per-person cost covers a delightful dinner, thoughtfully selected wines, and refreshing water, with specified arrival and departure times for each event. Initial advertisements provide the general area or town, and the exact location within that area is unveiled only a week before the event. Upon arrival, attendees immerse themselves in a carefully curated experience designed by [kraak].
Location: Gqeberha, Eastern Cape
Website: https://anfanihotels.com
Experience the epitome of luxury with impeccable service at Anfani Boutique Hotel. Nestled in Humewood, just a short stroll from Kings Beach. This 5-star hotel boasts an outdoor swimming pool, complimentary private parking, a restaurant, and a bar. Guests can enjoy the convenience of free WiFi, room service, and a 24-hour front desk. Additional amenities include a concierge service, tour desk, and luggage storage. For those travelling for business, a business center is available, while guests can also take advantage of the ironing and laundry services. Nearby attractions such as Denville Beach, Humewood Beach, and Splash Waterworld Port Elizabeth offer endless entertainment options. The Chief Dawid Stuurman International Airport is conveniently located just 1.9 miles away from Anfani Boutique Hotel.
Experience of the week
Location: Hoedspruit, Limpopo
Website: https://africamps.com/farm/africamps-hoedspruit/
Discover the enchanting AfriCamps Hoedspruit, where eleven boutique glamping tents are nestled around a serene dam, frequently visited by nyala, zebra, kudu, waterbuck, and bushbuck. Birdwatchers will delight in the array of bird species that call this dam home. Guests can relax and unwind amidst tranquil views and birdsong from their outdoor wood-fired hot tub or waterside braai area. The dam offers excellent catch-and-release specimen fishing, boasting carp weighing over 10kgs, as well as bass, bream, and barbel. At AfriCamps Hoedspruit, guests can partake in one of the eight guided game drives departing from the camp, an essential part of the experience. They can choose from tours to Kruger National Park, nearby private game reserves, the Panorama Route, the Blyde River Canyon, a sunset game drive, a guided nature walk, or a local village tour including traditional cuisine. Visitors can explore these options further on the activities page.
High Tea at Liberte at Craighall
Location: Randburg, Gauteng
Website: https://liberterestaurant.com/
Experience a delightful morning at Liberté, a modern French restaurant located in Craighall Park. Guests can indulge in a recently introduced bottomless mimosa brunch, offering a variety of tempting dishes such as croissant French toast, fresh pastries, and Eggs Benedict. Liberté is the perfect place for a fun girls' morning filled with laughter, bubbles, and delicious brunch options. The event can be pre-booked every Friday from 11 am to 3 pm for High Tea at R500 for 2 people. It's important to note that bookings need to be made 48 hours in advance.
