Why tourism is important
THE Eastern Cape Parks and Tourism Agency has indicated that the number of people who have made trips to the Eastern Cape has fallen by 4.1-million, from a high of 6.2-million in 2007 to 2.1-million in 2013.
In a report in the Daily Dispatch on Wednesday (“Tourist visits to E Cape fall steeply), ECPTA spokeswoman Lavinia Subboo said the number of domestic visitors had declined while DA shadow MEC for finance, Bobby Stevenson said the amount spent by international tourists fell by R800-million from R3.5-billion in 2011 to R2.7-billion in 2013.
That is a lot of money to lose out on for a province dearly in need of development. So let us take a look at what tourists want. Tourists want to be entertained. They come to Africa, and particularly South Africa, as it offers a mix of traditional African and Western cultures and some of the most beautiful scenery any country has to offer. Entertainment may mean many things ranging from visits to theatres to tours to visits to heritage sites and gatherings at areas of common interest like festivals or expos.
In addition, tourists want comfortable (and safe) accommodation, good (and again, safe) transport options and generally, a pleasant experience with outstanding service.
What does the Eastern Cape offer tourists? Formidable accommodation, some of the most interesting historical sites in the country, beautiful beaches and majestic mountains, friendly people, drawcards in festivals like the upcoming National Arts Festival in Grahamstown and an abundance of talent.
Why then, if the Eastern Cape has it all, are we bleeding tourists? Some may argue that it is a national phenomenon but I have my doubts. Somewhere, somehow, we are doing things wrong. Are our roads up to scratch? Are our towns and cities as clean as they could be? Do we work together to promote our areas and to try and make these as unfriendly to criminals as humanly possible? Do we encourage initiatives like township tours and eateries serving traditional food? Do we maintain our heritage sites and do we promote each others’ cultures in ensuring a comprehensive treat for visitors? Do we, in the Eastern Cape, realise the importance of tourism as a money-spinner and try to give the best possible service to everyone?
The Eastern Cape Tourism Board’s logo is: The Eastern Cape. Naturally, South Africa’s best. We have everything we need to make it so. Let’s get cracking.