World Tourism Day, initiated by the United Nations World Tourism Organisation (UNWTO), has since 1980 been celebrated annually on 27 September to promote tourism, raise awareness and demonstrate how it affects social, cultural and economic values worldwide.
This year the Department of Tourism, in partnership with the Western Cape Department of Economic Development and Tourism, celebrated World Tourism Day in the Overberg, also known as the “bread basket” of the Cape because of its grain and fruit production.
This impressive event, attended by dignitaries and delegates from all over the country, as well as some invited foreign journalists, was held at the beautiful Ecology Lifestyle Farm in Bot River. The theme of this year’s Tourism Day was “Rethinking Tourism: Opportunities Await” – very apt in view of efforts afoot at boosting the sector, angling for its recovery, post-Covid.
Overberg Mayor Sakkie Franken gave the welcoming speech, while Mireille Wenger, Western Cape MEC for Finance and Opportunities, was the keynote speaker. She encouraged people to explore their own country, and especially the Western Cape. “There really is something for everyone. If looking for adventure climbing or cycling, kayaking or paragliding or slow walks along the beautiful coast, to culinary heritage and cultural experiences to learn more about the province’s rich history, we have it all.
“The tourism and hospitality sector contributes significantly to our provincial economy, generating R15,5 billion and supporting 174 000 direct jobs in 2019. This does not include the indirect jobs created across the entire tourism value chain. I can honestly say there is something special about travelling in the Western Cape and in South Africa. The special ingredient that sets us apart is our wonderful and warm hospitality.”
Wenger said by August’s end passengers through Cape Town International Airport reached a recovery rate of 83%, comparable to August 2019. She also confirmed that for the coming season 191 flights a week will fly direct to Cape Town, roughly 1,56 million seats, with the potential to generate tourism spend of an estimated R7,9 billion.
The MEC shared a favourite quote: “‘Travel is the only thing you buy that makes you richer’ (anonymous). So let’s get out and explore, and fully realise the potential of tourism to boost the economy and create jobs in South Africa.”
Hermanus Times spoke to three of the young foreign journalists attending the event. Manja Juergens, editor of the Dutch diving magazine Duiken, Michel de Ram of We are Travellers (NL) and Lot Wildiers of the Belgian Reisgoesting were part of a group invited on a media trip by the South African Tourism Board to write about their experiences and promote tourism to South Africa.
All three enthused, with such comments as “We loved it”, “We had the best of luck seeing so many wild animals”, “We went on a balloon ride”, “We explored Johannesburg and now we’re ready to see Cape Town. Our time so far has been absolutely lovely.”
A healthy breakfast was available for early arrivals, followed by a delicious lunch of curry and waterblommetjiebredie following the formalities. Locally produced Paardenkloof Wines were also available for tasting. The well-known Bot River Marimba Band entertained delegates.
