Tourism Tuesdays 24.09.24

From the editor

Dear Industry Partner,

Happy Tourism Month to the world, and a special Happy Heritage Month to all South Africans and those living in South Africa! September is a time for us to not only celebrate the beauty and diversity of our nation but also to honor each other’s unique heritage. Our rich cultural fabric is what makes South Africa such a vibrant and appealing destination, and by recognising and celebrating this, we continue to foster unity and pride

Tourism Month is about more than just exploring new places it’s about understanding the vital role tourism plays in our economy, our environment, and our sense of identity This year, we celebrate under the theme “Tourism

In this edition of Tourism Tuesdays, we bring you several exciting features:

Green Tourism Incentive Programme (GTIP) – Applications are now open!

Explore the Stars – Learn how Astro Tourism is making waves in the Northern Cape

TBCSA Conference Highlights – Key takeaways from this year’s event held from 18 to 20 September.

South African Tourism Returns to IMEX Las Vegas – Showcasing South Africa as a premier business events destination.

Tutu Puoane – Celebrating her incredible talents at the 25th edition of the Joy of

Keeping South African Heritage Alive: A Resolve to

Learn About Ourselves and Inspire a New Generation of Travellers

*Image Courtesy of SAT Digital Library

As we celebrate Heritage Month in 2024, our reflections on South Africa’s rich cultural history and the enduring legacy of our liberation struggle stalwarts come to the fore. The South African government has encouraged citizens to explore heritage sites, museums, galleries, and libraries, calling us all to engage with our past, not just to remember it, but to actively preserve it for future generations.

This month also serves a dual purpose, as September is not only dedicated to heritage but also to the advancement of tourism. Celebrated under the theme “Tourism and Peace – 30 Years of Connecting People to Places and Cultures,” this year's observance offers a unique opportunity to reflect on how the tourism sector can harness its strengths to promote global peace and stability. In this moment, we are reminded that travel is more than a leisure activity; it is a bridge connecting people across borders, fostering mutual understanding,

and offering an opportunity to appreciate cultural diversity.

Heritage sites, museums, and historical monuments serve as tangible reminders of our collective journey They tell the stories of who we are, where we’ve come from, and where we are headed For South Africans, they are critical in shaping our understanding of the past particularly as it relates to our liberation and the journey toward democracy. For visitors from abroad, these sites offer a window into the country’s complex, yet resilient, identity.

These cultural landmarks are more than historical footnotes. They are living institutions that help shape our national identity, inspire our youth, and foster a collective sense of pride. They have also become powerful tourism attractions that draw visitors from all over the world, eager to experience South Africa’s rich history and vibrant cultural tapestry.

In this way, our heritage sites offer dual benefits: they educate and inspire while simultaneously contributing to the local tourism economy

Touring heritage sites does more than educate; it strengthens the bond between communities and empowers local efforts to preserve our natural and cultural history It connects the past to the present and offers an opportunity to build a more inclusive future by embracing the diversity of our experiences.

This year, South Africa achieved a significant milestone in the global recognition of our heritage. UNESCO inscribed two new sites onto its prestigious World Heritage register: “The Emergence of Modern Human Behaviour: The Pleistocene Occupation Sites” and “Human Rights, Liberation Struggle and Reconciliation: Nelson Mandela Legacy Sites.” The former, located in the Western Cape and KwaZuluNatal, documents over 162,000 years of human development and serves as a testament to our shared human journey. The latter highlights key locations tied to South Africa’s fight for human rights and includes the iconic Union Buildings and Sharpeville Sites, landmarks central to our political and liberation history.

These inscriptions on the UNESCO list reflect South Africa’s global importance in the preservation of cultural and natural heritage. They provide an invaluable opportunity for us to rediscover the stories etched into the land and to teach these stories to future generations. As South Africans, it is our responsibility to visit these heritage sites, not just read about them in books or through digital means Seeing these landmarks first-hand allows us to feel the gravity of our history and to

foster a deep appreciation for the sacrifices made by those who came before us

Heritage Month offers a chance for us to collectively honour our past. It is a reminder to visit our museums, galleries, and the twelve UNESCO World Heritage sites that South Africa proudly hosts. By doing so, we contribute to preserving our culture, promoting travel, and fostering a sense of national pride. These visits are opportunities to teach our children about who we are, to connect them with the rich history of our nation, and to inspire them to carry the torch of our shared legacy forward.

In celebrating Heritage Month and Heritage Day, we are not only paying tribute to our rich diversity but also contributing to the broader narrative of South Africa’s strength and resilience Our heritage is a powerful tool for unity, and it has the capacity to bring us together as we continue to write the next chapter in the story of this great nation.

Let us, therefore, take this opportunity to explore our heritage, both as individuals and as a community, and in doing so, inspire a new generation of travellers to discover the beauty of South Africa’s past, present, and future.

Thembisile Sehloho is the Chief Marketing Officer of South African Tourism and a passionate advocate for the role of tourism in preserving South Africa’s heritage and promoting cultural understanding across borders.

Green Tourism Incentive Programme (GTIP)

*Image Courtesy of Department of Tourism

The Department of Tourism invites eligible tourism enterprises to apply for support through the Green Tourism Incentive Programme (GTIP), now in its 10th application window Applications opened on 2 September 2024 and will remain open until 28 February 2025.

Explore the Stars – Astro Tourism Shines in the Northern Cape

As the Northern Cape gears up to host this year’s World Tourism Day festivities on 27 September 2024 at Carnarvon Primary School, attention is drawn to one of the province’s most exciting attractions: Astro Tourism This unique travel experience focuses on the wonders of the night sky

A major attraction in the region is the Square Kilometre Array (SKA), the world’s largest radio telescope, situated near Carnarvon. This project not only cements South Africa’s global reputation in science but also opens new doors for tourism in the province

the World

South African Tourism Returns to IMEX Las Vegas, Inviting

to Host Business Events in South Africa

South African Tourism will once again participate in IMEX America 2024, the largest trade show in the U.S. for the meetings, events, and incentive travel industry From 8–10 October 2024, at Mandalay Bay in Las Vegas, South Africa will highlight its exceptional venues, infrastructure, and capabilities to host world-class business events.

The South African National Convention Bureau (SANCB), in partnership with 21 exhibitors from across the country, will showcase a diverse range of qualityassured business event offerings to the global market. This year, 15 Small, Medium, and Micro Enterprises (SMMEs) from the tourism sector will also be part of the South African delegation, providing them with invaluable exposure and connections to international investors.

IMEX America offers South Africa a prime

platform to reinforce its position as a top business events destination “The U S market has shown considerable growth.

By participating in IMEX America, South African Tourism aims to secure global market access for local business events operators, driving business growth and contributing to the country’s GDP. South Africa is ready to invite the world to host their next major event on its shores.

Tutu Puoane to Shine Her Talents at the 25th Edition of the Joy of Jazz

The first edition of the festival in 1999 had an attendance of 2 000 people The festival then grew significantly to a 34 000 audience in 2023 and is expected to draw in even more people this year. Pre-Covid, the Joy of Jazz could generate direct spending estimated at R34 5 million and contributed about R86 million to Gauteng’s economy. Large festivals like this one are perfectly illustrative of the complex nature of the sector's value chain and how job-intensive the cultural and hospitality industries are

Now a native of Belgium, South African singer, actress and producer Tutu Puoane has carved an international career predicated on consistency and mastery Her recently released album, “Wrapped in Rhythm Vol 1” is set to the poetry of poet Lebo Mashile and was produced by American musician Larry Klein who Tutu who has been performing music

DSTV Delicious Festival celebrates 30 Years of Creative Freedom

The 11th edition of the DStv Delicious International Food and Music Festival took place on 21 and 22 September 2024, marking a spectacular celebration of music, food, and South Africa's rich cultural heritage Held under the theme “30 Years of Creative Freedom” in commemoration of three decades of South African democracy, the festival was headlined by global music icons Busta Rhymes and Jill Scott.

A special showcase honoring South African stars took audiences down memory lane with tribute performances at the Kyalami Grand Prix Circuit. Industry peers and children of the country’s late music icons paid homage through heartfelt performances, including Hugh Masekela’s nephew, Selema Writes, Sibongile Khumalo’s daughter Ayanda Khumalo and son Tshepo Mngoma, Mandoza’s sons Tokollo and Tumelo Tshabalala, and

Johnny Clegg’s son, Jesse Clegg The festival also celebrated Mzansi’s hip-hop and kwaito pioneers with performances by Boom Shaka, Cassper Nyovest, Focalistic, Khuli Chana, Reason, Robot Boii, and Touchline

As one of Gauteng’s premier lifestyle and entertainment events, the festival attracted a diverse audience of music and food lovers This year's event went all out to reignite Gauteng’s tourism recovery postCOVID-19, with a notable economic impact. In 2022, the festival contributed around R340 million to the provincial GDP and created 2000 job opportunities for SMMEs and residents.

Highlights from DSTV Delicious Festival

Lufthansa launches Johannesburg-Munich route

*Image Courtesy of IOL

Munich, a major German city known for its economic significance and tourist attractions, will now be more accessible to South African travellers This follows Lufthansa’s announcement and plans to enhance its South African operations with the introduction of new flight routes connecting Johannesburg and Cape Town to

With return fares starting at R14,517, the route offers competitive pricing for both leisure and business travellers This new service not only enhances direct connectivity between South Africa and Germany but also strengthens the economic and cultural ties between these two dynamic regions

Germany is South Africa’s second largest bilateral trading partner; meanwhile, with trade worth more than 20 billion euros, South Africa is Germany’s most important trading partner in Africa. South Africa is the only African member of the G20 and is to assume the chair in 2025.

Highlights from TBCSA Conference 2024

The 2024 Tourism Business Council of South Africa (TBCSA) Leadership Conference, themed "Tourism Matters," was held at Sun City from 18-20 September, focusing on inclusive growth and job creation in the tourism sector. Bringing together stakeholders from the public and private sectors, the two-day event addressed key challenges like

unemployment, economic growth, and visa reforms Discussions highlighted the importance of partnerships, sustainable tourism, and empowering youth through initiatives like Youth Employment Service (YES). TBCSA also addressed misconceptions about the Trevor Noah campaign, emphasising its role in promoting South Africa as a premier travel destination. *Image Courtesy of TBCSA / LinkedIn

*Image Courtesy of TBCSA / LinkedIn

Golden Moments: Team South Africa wins big at the 2024 Paralympics

The Paris 2024 Paralympic Games marked an unforgettable chapter for Team South Africa, as athletes delivered awe-inspiring performances that lit up the City of Lights and captured the hearts of many in the stands and back home

The games which closed on Sunday, 08

participated in the games earned four bronze medals across multiple disciplines, including wheelchair tennis and athletics. Donald Ramphadi and Lucas Sithole’s victory over Brazil’s Leandro Pena and Ymanitu Silva ensured they became the first Africans to claim a Paralympic wheelchair tennis medal. Louzanne Coetzee

TGCSA CORNER

TOURISM GRADING COUNCIL OF SOUTH AFRICA

PREMIUM PROPERTIES

The Tourism Grading Council of South Africa's 5-star premium classification denotes the apex of luxury accommodation within the Republic. This esteemed designation, conceived to differentiate truly remarkable establishments from conventional 5-star offerings, is bestowed solely upon venues that proffer unrivalled quality, bespoke service, and indelible guest experiences

These distinguished properties surpass expectations in every facet, from superlative furnishings and state-of-the-art amenities to world-class cuisine and intuitive hospitality

The following properties have been awarded with a 5-Star Premium Award:

1. Cheetah Plains Private Game Reserve

Location: Sabi Sand Game Reserve, Mpumalanga Province

Pioneering the silent safari and driving a singular approach to renewable energy in hospitality in the wild, Cheetah Plains is a carbon negative lodge, committed to delivering an exceptional eco-luxury safari experience of the highest standards.

2. La Residence Hotel and Villas

Location: Franschhoek, Western Cape Province

Experience a tranquil haven of exquisite natural beauty, opulence and complete seclusion in the heart of the Franschhoek Valley Located on a private 30-acre estate surrounded by mountains and vineyards, La Residence sets the benchmark for luxury accommodation in South Africa’s celebrated Cape Winelands.

PREMIUM PROPERTIES

3. Morukuru

Beach Lodge

Location: De Hoop Nature Reserve, Western Cape Province

The Morukuru Beach Lodge is a fivebedroom oceanfront beach lodge, ideal for (honeymoon) couples and small families seeking an eco-beach holiday or immersive coastal nature experience

*Courtesy of Morukuru

4. Morukuru Ocean House

*Courtesy of Morukuru

5. Jabulani Safari

Location: Kapama Private Game Reserve, Limpopo Province

A Jabulani safari promises nothing but the best in luxury, but the highlight of your trip will no doubt be sharing a space with the gentle presence of their famous elephant herds

Location: De Hoop Nature Reserve, Western Cape Province

The Morukuru Ocean House is an exclusiveuse four-bedroom eco-friendly private ocean house, ideal for an unforgettable multi-generational beach holiday or immersive coastal nature experience.

BENCHMARK PROPERTIES

Benchmark properties are those recommended by the Tourism Grading Council of South Africa, Property Approvals Committee during pre-screening and viewing due to their exceptional product offerings, regardless of category or star grading level. These properties are escalated to South African Tourism’s Brand Experience team, tasked with sourcing new

products for the Touris hosting needs. This team facilitates inclusive growth by incorporating emerging or transformed businesses, promoting geographic diversity across the country, and dispelling misperceptions linked to seasonal travel.

The following properties have been identified as Benchmark Properties:

BENCHMARK PROPERTIES

2. Tshiberry B&B

Location: Dithabaneng, Rustenburg, North West Province

TshiBerry Bed & Breakfast presents guests with a wonderful location for a holiday or

This superb bed and breakfast is only 3 kilometers from the Phokeng Mall and the Royal Bafokeng Sport Stadium as well as less than 20 minutes from the lovely Kgaswane Nature Reserve. Additionally,

FEATURED TOURISM EXPERIENCES

Timosha Guest House

Location: Kempton Park, Gauteng Province

Timosha Guest House offers bed & breakfast accommodation in Cresslawn, Kempton Park and is close to shopping

FEATURED TOURISM EXPERIENCE

*Image Courtesy of Expedia

The View Guest House

Location: Thembisa, Gauteng Province

The View Guest House is a family friendly establishment that offers bed and b kf d i I i 100%