S Africa steps up efforts to woo Indian tourists

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SME Times News Bureau | 04 Feb, 2012
In a bid to attract more Indian travellers, the South African Tourism's (SAT) eighth annual five-city roadshow Friday reached the capital as it showcased its popular destinations and varied culture.

The roadshow that began Jan 30 in Mumbai saw representation from over 62 suppliers and 135 representatives from South Africa's hospitality and travel industry engaging with over 1,000 travel agents from India.

"Through these roadshows, we aim to showcase our expanding range of hospitality products and varied events and attractions apart from strengthening the distribution and packaging channels of these products," Hennell Slaber, country head of SAT, told IANS.

"The participants include the best in luxury and business hotels, game reserves, tour operators, adventure tour guides...," she added.

According to Slaber, a lot of programmes have been undertaken for their trade partners in India including training more than 1,500 travel agents across 14 cities in India to sell South Africa as a destination.

"Adventure tours are the big sellers for them and the Indian travellers visiting South Africa have been increasing steadily," said Slabber.

"In 2010, around 72,000 Indians visited us and the figure rose to over 75,000 till October 2011. This year, we are positive about breaking the 100,000 mark," she added.

When asked about the competition from cheaper, closer and popular destinations like Singapore and Thailand, Slabber said that such destinations will always have the advantage because of their proximity.

"However, as per our research, majority of Indians love a mix of adventure and leisure activities. From bungee jumping to window shopping, South Africa is the perfect blend of both," said Slabber.

According to Slabber, a 10-day trip to South Africa that includes wildlife safari, adventure activities and city tours will cost around Rs.80,000 per person.