South Africas tourism industry needs to capitalise on the countrys diverse, open spaces and warm, friendly people. This was the overarching theme of the second annual Hospitality Industry Think Tank, held in Johannesburg last month, spearheaded by Dream Hotels Resorts and supported by leading industry players.
The event was an opportunity for all members of the industry to discuss the most pressing issues affecting hospitality and tourism and to develop new solutions and innovations to move these sectors forward.
Attendees and panellists agreed that while other parts of the world are plagued by over-tourism, South Africa has the capacity and willingness to welcome tourists. However, obstacles like insufficient marketing budget and visa restrictions for certain countries, prevent the tourism industry from reaching its full potential.
The Think Tank addressed challenges and embraced solutions, which left the audience feeling optimistic and inspired. Drawing on discussion points from the various panels, the hospitality industry needs to consider the following six key points:
1. South Africa is more than just Cape Town and KrugerThe country is fortunate to have incredible selling points, such as the wildlife of the bush, Table Mountain and the Cape coastline. But as an industry, more needs to be done to market everything that South Africa has to offer. The world-famous attractions need to be seen as hooks, and tourism players should strengthen these hooks to encourage visitors to explore other parts of the country.
