An astounding success
At this year’s caravan show in Midrand, I once again realised how much it’s possible to miss something. Although the show was cancelled in 2021, its absence felt much longer. Remember, the last show – in 2020 – was held a few weeks before we all had to look at the president’s morose face as he said, “My fellow South Africans…” This year, among the more than 20 000 camp enthusiasts who flocked through the doors over those three days, there was a clear desire to see what’s going on in the market. And boy, did the caravan and campingequipment manufacturers show off. Every new product was exhibited, and I was amazed at the quality and ingenuity that’s so characteristic of our local manufacturers. I also spoke to many of those manufacturers, and the good news for everyone for whom camping is close to the heart is that the industry is doing amazingly well, despite all the setbacks of the last two years. The camping market is strong, and I’m not surprised – because of everyone’s resilience. Many prophets of doom were prepared – seemed almost eager – to start writing obituaries, but this year’s show proved them all wrong. Leon was like a kid in a candy store and ran himself ragged to get to all the exciting new products on the market. His special report on the show starts on page 14. And what joy to talk face-to-face with our readers again! It’s so easy to disappear into our own little vacuums, and so I really needed to see you all again, to hear how it’s going, and to talk about how things are going at
Many prophets of doom were prepared – seemed almost eager – to start writing obituaries, but this year’s show proved them all wrong
Drive & Camp – the magazine and its staff members. I’ve said it before, several times, and I’m going to say it again: our sole purpose with this magazine is to equip you with the information to properly enjoy your camping and outdoor adventures. It is our honour and privilege.
HERE’S A FINAL REMINDER
of our Resort Guide that’s still on shelf for another few weeks. It will help you plan your camping trips for the rest of the year as it contains all the information you need for more than 80 campsites across South Africa. We’ve divided them into four categories – family resorts, quieter sanctuaries, resorts where you camp near wildlife, and good spots for overnighting on your travels. Safe travels!