With the Easter long weekend fast approaching, Tourism Minister Patricia de Lille has called on local and international travellers to explore the country’s breathtaking landscapes, rich culture and vibrant communities.
De Lille launched the Easter Campaign with an activation at Twin Venture, based at the Atlantis Dunes in Cape Town, specialising in quad-biking and sandboarding experiences and showcasing the variety of experiences for visitors across South Africa especially in smaller towns.
Speaking at the event, attended by tourism business owners and industry associations, De Lille emphasised the importance of domestic and international travel in sustaining and growing the tourism sector.
Domestic tourism continues to perform well, according to De Lille, with travellers increasingly looking for affordable and unique experiences.
Recent insights from the 2024 Sho’t Left Travel Week campaign highlighted key trends shaping local travel:
- Affordability remains a priority: Travellers are looking for more budget-friendly accommodation and experiences.
- Lesser-known destinations are in demand: More South Africans are seeking off-the-beaten-path adventures, opting for places with fewer crowds and deeper cultural experiences.
- Personalised travel experiences are key: Families, solo travellers, seniors, and adventure-seekers are all looking for tailored travel options, including accessible tourism and wellness retreats.
“Every night spent in a guesthouse, every meal at a local restaurant, and every souvenir bought from a market contributes to our economy. By supporting local tourism, we ensure that the benefits of travel extend beyond major cities – promoting inclusive economic growth,” said De Lille.
She urged travellers to take advantage of the upcoming long weekends to explore, experience and support local businesses.
“Take the trip. Book the stay. Discover the dorpie. Dance at the festival. Visit the market. Eat the magwinya. Support local. Make the memory. Take that Sho’t Left! Our country is calling. South Africa awaits – Come find your joy!”
