The Tourism Grading Council of South Africa (TGCSA) will implement its revised grading standards for accommodation establishments on April 1.
A statement released by SA Tourism stated that the aim of the revised criteria is to “advance and maintain a recognisable, credible and globally-benchmarked system of quality assurance for accommodation and venues in South Africa.”
The first of a host of countrywide provincial roadshows was launched in Cape Town on February 19, to outline the new grading criteria to all establishment owners, while at the same time introducing the new accolades programme to stakeholders.
Darryl Erasmus, Chief Quality Assurance Officer at SA Tourism, said: “Our aim is to ensure that all visitors that stay at our graded establishments have only the best memories and experience, which will entice them to always choose to stay at graded establishments when going on holiday or business travel. Apart from the new grading criteria, we are also excited by the accolades programme, which allows for properties to capitalise on niche market differentiation. Accolades includes insignia and criteria for niche markets, such as child-friendly, pet-friendly, wedding venues, spa and wellness facilities, 4x4 etc.”
Close to 60 Independent Grading Assessors from around the country attended intensive training last month, which included application of the grading criteria and grading system upgrades, to ensure that the new grading criteria are executed smoothly.
“Our Independent Grading Assessors are the most important cog in this wheel as we head into new territory later this year. We want to ensure that our assessors are ready to assist our graded establishments in ensuring that they deliver to the highest standards,” added Erasmus.
See the full list of roadshows.
February 21: KwaZulu Natal – Coastlands Hotel Umhlanga
February 26: Gauteng – Sandton Convention Centre
February 27: Mpumalanga – Pine Lake Inn
February 28: Limpopo – Garden Court Polokwane
March 14: Northern Cape – Protea Hotel Kimberly
March 15: Free State – Bon Hotel Bloemfontein
March 19: North West – Protea Hotel Mahikeng
For more information and to reserve a spot at one of the roadshows, click here.
