South Africa is gearing up for the domestic tourism sector to reopen. In anticipation, Dream Hotels & Resorts has launched a campaign to encourage local travel called Get Back on the Road.
‘During the nationwide lockdown, we’ve longed for the simple things in life: the smell of the ocean, wiggling our toes in the sand, and discovering a delightful dorpie tucked away in a remote corner of the countryside,’ says Sharmila Ragunanan, Marketing Manager of Dream Hotels & Resorts.
‘We want to remind South Africans, and travellers abroad, of all the wonderful things that can be discovered right here in our own backyard once domestic and inbound travel returns,’ she adds.
The Dream Hotels & Resorts’ portfolio consists of 21 properties located in off-the-grid and low density destinations across the country, from Nibela Lake Lodge near wildlife-rich St. Lucia, KwaZulu Natal, to Piekenierskloof Mountain Resort, a stone’s throw from the little town of Citrusdal in the Western Cape.
Despite recent reports that the travel industry will only re-open in 2021, the African Travel & Tourism Association (ATTA) and the Tourism Business Council of South Africa (TBCSA) have proposed an earlier phased reopening of the sector, which sees international tourism to South Africa returning as soon as September 2020.
‘We need to spread the word that South Africa is travel ready and continue our efforts to lobby for an early return,’ explains Ragunanan. ‘Keeping local leisure travel on the back burner, along with closed borders for an extended period of time will have significant effects on the industry – and the country’s economy.’
According to the TBCSA, it is estimated that over 40,000 jobs have already been lost within the tourism sector. ‘It is vital to preserve what we have left and continue our efforts to support local businesses and tourism resources,’ she adds.
Aside from the economic factors, Ragunanan explains that travel is essential. ‘It keeps us grounded, refreshes the soul and feeds the natural curiosity ingrained in our collective DNA. And it doesn’t need to cost a fortune. As long as you travel with your heart, mind and eyes all open, any destination can be life changing, even if it’s along the backroads of your own province.’
When the time comes for us to grab our car keys and Get Back on the Road, South Africans can look forward to staying at any one of Dream Hotels & Resorts’ properties from R1050 per room per night. Daily breakfast and activities are included in select offers.
For more information on Get Back on the Road rates and special offers please contact 0861 010 347, or [email protected]
Image credit: Supplied
