A New Year message to the travel trade from Ugu South Coast Tourism CEO, Justin Mackrory.
A busy year, cramped with challenges overcome, new initiatives and exciting opportunities setting the path going forward in 2015. As with any business, and especially those with the adage `client is king’ as our focus, has been on growing specialist attention on a variety of niche markets. These include: Eco and outdoor adventure; Convention and business tourism, Sports and Health tourism, Cultural and Heritage, Music and Festivals, the Informal Relaxer, Nature based tourism, Avitourists and the Mature Mobiles.
As our destination is generally recognised for its value for money family holidays, we already boast diverse offerings here on the South Coast of KwaZulu-Natal – now we are seeking packaging in terms of experiences and accommodation, which can be further loved by the demographic of guests we have frequenting our shores ranging from the Campers to the 5* Hotels and everything in-between.
We have also begun an intensive research project on setting up a series of Multi-trails and whilst this is an ambitious project, will no doubt bring great economic activity in the `off the beaten track’ areas within our destination.
Whilst the economy is not in the ripe shape, which has resulted in many South Africans being very cost conscious, embarking on less trips away from home and often for shorter duration, are where tourism organisations such as ours can excel.
Underpinning any tourist or business visit, the introduction of the ‘Sunny & Safe’ initiative, launched in December 2014 (see Tattler article: Sunny and Safe season for KZN South Coast) has allowed our guests the freedom to feel safe and secure on our shoreline. With the crime rate on the lower end of the scale we are proud to say that the Sunny and Safe campaign is gaining increasing impetus and in 2015 we are taking this key campaign to new levels. More information on this key campaign will follow building towards our Easter season.
So may the Pimms and Oysters, the Bring and Braai and the indulgence of relaxing and eating at some of our finest restaurants give you the energy to face 2015.
For more information contact Nikki Tilley on 039-682 7944 or email [email protected]
