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In September 2023, Plettenberg Bay marked the commencement of TOURISM MONTH activities in the Western Cape as it proudly received accreditation as one of only seven Whale Heritage Sites across the globe.
Prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, the Nedbank Green Trust and the World Wildlife Fund conducted an economic impact assessment, revealing that Plett’s whale-boat sector contributed an impressive annual revenue of R371 million (€18.5 million) throughout the town’s tourism value chain, encompassing accommodation, restaurants, tour operators, crafters, and artisans.
In today’s email:
- Plettenberg Bay Accredited as One of Seven Whale Heritage Sites
- What is so special about the Garden Route?
- Around the Web : Lion’s Head named best free tourist attraction in Africa, Experience the Cape’s ‘Best Adventure Experience’ From caves to graves — 20 things to do in Knysna and more.
- From Social Media
- South African Food You Will Love
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Plettenberg Bay Accredited as One of Seven Whale Heritage Sites
The accreditation of Plettenberg Bay as a Whale Heritage Site stands as the culmination of extensive collaborative efforts, featuring various stakeholders such as marine scientists, conservation organizations like SANParks, CapeNature, and Nature’s Valley Trust, local whale boat operators, the Mayor’s office, and Plett Tourism.
Western Cape Minister of Finance and Economic Opportunities, Mireille Wenger, expressed her optimism, stating, “This prestigious recognition will significantly boost tourism in the town while emphasizing the crucial importance of responsible and sustainable tourism. It ensures that future generations can continue to benefit from and appreciate the incredible natural gifts we have been bestowed.”
Wenger, underlining the significance of tourism and hospitality in the province, referred to 2019 statistics, revealing that these sectors contributed R15.5 billion (€773 million) to the economy and supported 174,000 direct jobs. She underscored the importance of attracting more tourists, aligning with the Western Cape Government’s “Growth For Jobs” economic action plan. “More tourists mean more jobs,” Wenger asserted, encouraging both local and international visitors to explore the diverse attractions of the Western Cape during Tourism Month. She concluded by showcasing the province’s offerings, stating, “Whether you seek adventure through activities like climbing, cycling, kayaking, or paragliding, or prefer leisurely walks along the stunning coastline, the Western Cape has it all.
We offer a multitude of culinary, heritage, and cultural experiences that authentically convey the rich history and promising future of this province.”
What is so special about the Garden Route?
The Garden Route in South Africa is a picturesque stretch of coastline, renowned for its beautiful scenery and diverse activities. From the lush forests to the rugged shores, the Garden Route has something to offer everyone.
The scenic landscape of the Garden Route is one of its most attractive features. It is home to stunning sandy beaches, with pristine waters perfect for swimming and snorkeling. The indigenous forests provide an opportunity to explore nature and discover wildlife such as antelopes, baboons, and even elephants! For those seeking a more adventurous experience, there are plenty of opportunities for hiking, mountain biking or kayaking along the coast.
Around The Web
Experience the Cape’s ‘Best Adventure Experience’ with Ceres Rail Company’s train to Elgin Railway Market
Looking for an unforgettable adventure that combines scenic beauty, delectable cuisine and an award-winning experience?
Then look no further than Ceres Rail Company’s train journey to the Elgin Railway Market. In 2023, Ceres Rail Company proudly clinched the prestigious ‘Best Adventure Experience award in the KFM Best of the Cape Awards, solidifying its status as a must-do experience in the Western Cape.
National Parks Week: Activities for guests at Kruger National Park
In celebration of SANParks’ National Parks Week, Kruger National Park has some fun, educational activities for guests who visit.
Lion’s Head named best free tourist attraction in Africa
A new study from Casago went in search of the best free tourist attractions around the world and Cape Town’s Lion’s Head made a feature.
Airbnb To Host Africa Travel Summit In Johannesburg On October 24th – Tech Nova
Airbnb is set to host more than 200 policymakers, tourism experts, innovators, and changemakers from across the continent at its Airbnb Africa Travel Summit…
Cape Town International see massive influx of passengers since January
The Mother City experienced a massive influx of tourists in the first six months of 2023, with 1.6 million two-way passengers passing through Cape Town
From caves to graves — 20 things to do in Knysna
Along the 300km stretch of unadulterated beauty known as the Garden Route, which runs from Witsand in the Western Cape to Storms River
Tourism Marketing Conference to be held in Cape Town
The tourism sector is picking up momentum and it’s time for the industry to re-focus on effective marketing. The upcoming Tourism Marketing Conference during Tourism Month on 13 & 14 September 2023, gives industry players the opportunity to re-strategise and focus on the latest trends, opportunities and key areas of tourism marketing, innovation, positioning and branding.
5 Beachside restaurants to visit in and around Durban
Sometimes, it’s not possible to pack up the car and head out on a beach holiday.
Luckily, if you find yourself in Durban, you can take yourself on a ‘mini-vacay’ and spend some time eating, drinking, and enjoying the sound of the waves and views of the ocean at these five beachside restaurants.
From Social Media
Love to Visit South Africa
From @southafrica
The soft tones of warm summer evenings in Clifton.
Photo by @ryanwarneke
South African Food You Will Love
BEST LAMB CHOP BRAAI EVER!
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Love to visit South Africa is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.