The 3rd annual travel meeting in SA, features both local and international organizations to probe, invent and carve new maps within the travel and tourism sector.
The conference and events programme included stimulating topics and educational items such as: choosy traveler, online travel trends, travel blogging, current trends, selling ethical travel products, and 5 key trends for destinations.
According to deputy tourism minister Tokozile Xasa, contrary to the positive global performance, the number of international tourists to South Africa declined by -6.8% (or 645 463) in 2015, with a total tourist arrival figure of 8 903 773 in line with Stats SA Tourism Migration Report,” she highlighted at the opening of the conference.
This performance is below the global average of a +4.4% increase in tourist arrivals due to the aftermath of Ebola and the unintended consequences of changes to immigration regulations in the first two quarters of 2015. A gradual recovery is expected from most international markets in 2016, she said.
The exhibition also featured Travel Tech Show where leading digital, social, mobile and tech exhibitors showcased their products to key travel industry professionals.
Damian Cook, CEO of E-Tourism Frontiers, showed how the rest of the world were quick to take up technology in the travel industry, and although Africa has, there is still a gap.
Kenan Ince, the General Manager of Cape Town Turkish Airlines said: “We have been involved with WTM® Africa since its inception; and at the tip of Africa it is the best platform for us to reach the whole of Africa.”
According to the 2015 Travel & Tourism Competitiveness Report of the World Economic Forum; South Africa ranks as the lead destination in its region and ranks 48th globally. This is driven by its rich natural and cultural resources and a positive business environment. Our business and trade events strategy focuses on 6 sectors viz; mining and minerals, manufacturing, BPO, creative industries, and ICT. We want to develop Africa as a source market for business and leisure,” says Xasa.
The Responsible Tourism Awards, whose aim is to honour responsible tourism in Africa, will take place later today.
WTM is held internationally and this is its 36th edition.
Having begun on Wednesday, the WTM® Africa that is a precursor to the internationally acclaimed Tourism Indaba (scheduled for May 7-9 in Durban) ends on Friday at Cape Town ICC.
