In this latest update from South African Tourism (SAT), we delve into the #GimmeSummer Sho’t Left campaign set to launch in the Free State tomorrow (Tuesday, October 29).
SAT CEO Nombulelo Guliwe discusses the organisation’s strategy to attract tourists to South Africa as it prepares for the World Travel Market at Excel London from November 5-7.
Dinky Malikane, SAT’s Regional GM: Americas, highlights the growth in the US and Canadian markets and the untapped potential to increase visitor numbers from Brazil.
Additionally, readers will discover the remarkable success of the South African National Convention Bureau and the business events sector with key bids secured for events scheduled between 2024 and 2029.
Evelyn Mahlaba, SAT’s Regional GM: Africa, provides insights into the growing appeal of South Africa among African travellers.
Additionally, fresh from IMEX America, learn about the experiences of three South African small and medium enterprises who participated as first-time exhibitors.
#GimmeSummer Sho’t Left campaign to enhance summer travel experience
South Africa’s Department of Tourism, in partnership with SAT, is launching the much-anticipated #GimmeSummer Sho’t Left (GSSL) campaign at the De Oude Kraal Country Estate in the Free State on Tuesday, October 29.
This year’s campaign aims to encourage South Africans and international travellers to travel beyond South Africa’s stunning coastlines, iconic wildlife reserves and culturally rich urban landscapes and explore the country’s lesser-known provinces such as the Free State and Northern Cape, hidden gems and off-the-beaten-path experiences.
Using the Tourism Grading Council of South Africa (TGCSA) welcome campaign, #GSSL calls on all South Africans to act as tourism ambassadors and warmly receive international visitors, sharing insider tips and local recommendations to enhance their travel experiences in the country.
“The aim is to create a welcoming environment for our international guests, with locals recommending must-see places and must-do activities, giving international travellers an authentic and personalised experience of the country,” says Mashoto Mokhethi, SAT Hub Head: South Africa.
She says SAT is also encouraging local and international visitors to stay in graded establishments during the upcoming summer season.
“These establishments are graded by the TGCSA, providing quality assurance and a clear standard of what guests can expect. Whether it has a three, four or five-star rating, choosing a graded property guarantees consistency in quality and service. Travellers also have the option to report any dissatisfaction directly to the TGCSA, ensuring accountability.”
Through its #TravelWise in Mzansi campaign, the national marketing body also encourages tourists not to drink and drive, stay safe and enjoy the festive season.
Tourism Minister Patricia de Lille will travel to the Free State to launch the GSSL campaign.
Dr Mpho Ramoliki, Acting Manager: Marketing Tourism at the Free State Gambling, Liquor and Tourism Authority (FSGLTA), says the FSGLTA is delighted that SAT chose the Free State to launch the GSSL campaign.
“The Free State is ready to welcome tourists. Our summer campaign will focus primarily on attracting domestic tourists from other provinces as well as international tourists. We want them to come and experience our amazing wildlife safaris, fantastic festivals and events, fascinating local culture and traditions and open spaces that offer serene scenic beauty that rejuvenates the soul.
The Free State is a hidden gem that caters to families seeking to unwind, adventure seekers, cultural enthusiasts and eco-tourists.”
During the GSSL campaign, the FSGLTA will hold five activations within the province to encourage Free State residents to travel as well as activations in Lesotho, the Eastern Cape, KwaZulu-Natal, Northern Cape and Gauteng to attract travellers during the summer season.
Ramoliki also stresses the importance of visitors staying in graded establishments. “The Free State has 145 graded establishments with 25 new applications awaiting adjudication including hotels, guesthouses, wedding venues, conference facilities, B&Bs and self-catering accommodation.”
Top visitor experiences in the Free State:
- Nature and adventure activities: Hiking trails abound in the majestic Maluti and Drakensberg mountains and around Clarens. Adventure seekers can enjoy watersports such as white-water rafting, fishing, kayaking and boating in the northern Free State.
- Cultural experiences: At the Basotho Cultural Village, within the Golden Gate National Park, visitors can immerse themselves in the culture and traditions of the Basotho people. They can meet Basotho people, consult with a traditional healer, enjoy interactive exhibits and performances and buy local crafts.
- Wine and beer tasting and culinary experiences: The Free State is home to a variety of local wines, craft beers and culinary delights. Bloemfontein’s renowned 2nd Avenue offers culinary experiences and a selection of gourmet restaurants showcasing local and international cuisine.
- Wildlife and eco-tourism: The Free State’s vast landscapes are a haven for wildlife enthusiasts. The Gariep district, home to the Gariep Dam, is a hotspot for eco-tourism, birdwatching and safari experiences, enabling visitors to engage with the region’s incredible biodiversity.
- Sports tourism: Sports lovers can revel in the energetic atmosphere of Bloemfontein’s stadiums where fans passionately support local and national football, rugby and cricket teams.
