Celebrating our African Dream
KNYSNA - On Tuesday 28 November, the Travel & Tourism Workshop took place at the Pezula Nature Reserve. With a celebratory theme, "Our African Dream Celebration," the workshop aimed to express gratitude for the resilience and comeback of the travel industry over the past year.
Despite challenges such as the Garden Route fires and the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic, the industry has bounced back, determined to share the beauty of Africa with travellers from around the world.
The main goal of the workshop was to educate and equip travel operators with up-to-date information about the diverse offerings of South Africa. It gave opportunities for local and international clients to explore the wonders of the country.
Despite huge challenges the industry has bounced back, determined to share the beauty of Africa with travellers from around the world.
Travel agents, tour operators, independent consultants and professionals responsible for arranging accommodation, conferences, management breakaways and incentive travel were all present and had the opportunity to interact with 18 exhibitors from across South Africa, including local establishments.
Through round-robin sessions, guests were introduced to a wide range of exclusive hotels, boutique hotels, guesthouses and game lodges.
They also had the chance to explore vehicle rentals, cruising options and a range of thrilling adventure activities.
The travel industry has always prioritised giving back to worthy causes. In line with
this tradition, the workshop honoured the exceptional work of Penny Mainwaring and Ella Mapurisa at Lukhanyiso Safe Haven in Knysna. Attendees were encouraged to bring gifts and food donations to support this children's safe haven, which provides a nurturing environment for those in need.
"There has been great excitement around bringing this tourism workshop to such a beautiful part of the Garden Route," said Lee Ann Wasson, the organiser of the workshop.
"Exhibitors and guests were all enthusiastic about participating in this event because of all the wonderful tourism destinations and products that Knysna and the Garden Route as a whole has to offer."