Durban is the place to be this coming holiday season – this message reverberated at the launch of the city’s summer campaign at the Coastal Beach Resort overlooking Umgababa Beach yesterday (Wednesday, September 11).
Cyril Xaba, eThekwini Mayor, unveiled the city’s bumper summer campaign Endless Waves of Tranquillity positioning Durban as a destination of choice.
The campaign seeks to ensure Durban remains top of mind among tourists while the theme urges everyone to intensify similar campaigns showcasing the city’s hidden gems to domestic and international visitors.
Mayor Xaba said no effort must be spared to promote the city’s attractions including township and rural tourism products, parks, walking trails, game reserves and the rich heritage making the city a cultural melting pot.
During the launch, Durban Tourism unpacked festive season plans including holiday packages and safety measures to be implemented during summer. Tourists are encouraged to start booking their holidays as projections indicate over 1.3 million visitors are expected to flock to Durban during the 2024/25 summer season.
Xaba said the estimated occupancy rate is more than 65% this coming summer.
“Projections indicate direct spend of around R2.5 million contributing approximately R6.3 million to GDP while creating about 11 423 employment opportunities. Tourism is one sector that has a multiplier effect on the economy,” he added.
Tourism sector a ‘major contributor’ to job creation
Xaba said it is important to support the tourism sector as it is a major contributor to job creation. He cited the Coastal Beach Resort in Umgababa as an example, which began as a shisanyama in 2015 and was a fully fledged resort offering 25 rooms, restaurant, lounge, pool and an events venue by 2021.
“This is why the city will continue to support employment creation in the tourism sector. Rural and township development also remains an important element for the city.”
Durban’s diverse culinary scene is also a drawcard for tourists seeking affordable, quality cuisine.
“When people decide to visit a country or city, they want to immerse themselves in the culture of the area and food is an integral part of cultural identity. Durban offers exactly that,” Xaba pointed out.
Xaba said Durban is open for business and ready to deliver a safe and memorable summer holiday. He reassured visitors and residents that guaranteed safety measures are in place, highlighting the progress of smart policing using technology to proactively prevent crime.
Destination promotion activations
Durban Tourism’s destination promotion activations unpacked during the launch include route development discussions in Zambia and Zimbabwe from September 12-16, an international tourism trade show in Europe from September 16-20 and market roadshows across Gauteng from September 19-22.
Launch attendees experienced some of the activities offered at Coastal Beach Resort such as horse riding along the beach. Nearby tourism offerings such as shark diving, Splash Waterworld, deep sea fishing and African Watersports Aliwal were also highlighted.
Additionally, the launch covered the upcoming Blue Economy Week, from September 24-28, set to showcase coastal resources and activities and promote economic growth through innovation and sustainable practices in tourism and related sectors.
