Germans love E Cape

GERMAN investment in the Eastern Cape, and in particular in Port Elizabeth, has increased dramatically over the last few years and - according to the PE Regional Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PERCCI) - German business confidence in South Africa's economy at present is bullish.
PERCCI says that German companies such as motor giants Volkswagen and Daimler Chrysler have made huge investments in the country, with South Africa having exported some 40 000 right-hand-drive Golf 4s to European markets last year.
It says that German citizens are keen buyers of prime properties in the province, particularly for holiday homes, as well as other investments in commercial farms and game farms.
The city and province are also trying to attract more German tourists to the region as they have an enormous appetite for travel and have the most paid holidays in the world (up to six weeks per year). Says Peter Myles of PE-based company, Tourism 2000 Network (which amongst other things is involved in tourism training): "Germany has the world's third-largest economy and its citizens earn some of the highest wages. Germany's potential travelling population is conservatively estimated at 65m". He added that according to recent surveys, the top five motivations for German travel were:
* Relaxation
* Escape from everyday life
* To be alone
* To recharge, and to
* Enjoy good weather.

(Miguel de Sousa)