KwaZulu Natal’s provincial economy is projected to receive an estimated €63m cash injection over the Easter season as an estimated 250 000 domestic and 60 000 international visitors are expected to arrive.
Durban Tourism is projecting an influx of 100 000 visitors alone over the Easter weekend who are all expected to spend on entertainment, holiday accommodation, car rentals and restaurants. The Federated Hospitality Association of South Africa (Fedhasa) is also anticipating a late surge of bookings, with hotels in the province slowly filling up.
Charles Preece, East Coast Operational Manager of Fedhasa says: “Holidaymakers tend to book very late. Our hotels are not at 100% occupancy as yet, but we anticipate the last-minute bookings.”
Phindile Makwakwa, Acting CEO of Tourism KwaZulu-Natal, says: “Going on the rate of bookings we have had for activities and accommodation already, KZN looks set for another bumper season. We're proud to be part of what is a vibrant, creative and important economic sector for this region. It is encouraging that holidaymakers have chosen KZN for their next short break or holiday. Our tourism trade have displayed quality in their service and a variety of experiences that can be had here in the Zulu Kingdom.
“We can’t rest on our laurels – and it’s good to see our attractions and businesses looking at opportunities to develop and grow their businesses to meet customer expectations in this globally competitive industry,” adds Makwakwa