Cape Town – According to the latest dipstick research conducted by Cape Town Tourism in the first week of January 2009, accommodation figures across Cape Town reflect a levelling out of visitors over the peak season.The decreased petrol price as well as a weak rand in comparison to overseas currency led to many South African’s enjoying a national holiday instead of going abroad. Cape Town remains a favourite domestic leisure destination with many South Africans visiting the Mother City over the festive season. Feedback from the industry and major attractions indicate that domestic arrivals are on par with that of last year.
“It is essential for the tourism industry to balance domestic arrivals with foreign arrivals, making sure that our year-round occupancy levels are healthy by offering domestic travelers value for money and welcoming experiences”, says Mariëtte du Toit-Helmbold, CEO of Cape Town Tourism.
Despite fears of a drop in international arrivals and mixed reports from the industry, the weak rand is expected to keep international arrivals steady for 2009. Cape Town continues to remain an authentic, value for money destination and was recently selected as one of Fordor’s Top Ten destinations to visit in 2009. This was based on the excellent value for money it offers.
Similarly, British Airways has predicted Cape Town as its top long haul destination for 2009, ahead of cities such as Dubai, San Francisco and New York. The weakness of the rand against the pound, the increased awareness of the destination due to the 2010 FIFA World Cup, the forthcoming Lions Tour and consistent positive media coverage of the Mother City are reported to be key contributors.Lastminute.com also cited South Africa as a preferred value-for-money destination. The travel retailer also outlined a significant trend towards shorter all-inclusive holidays, with 7-day packages being the most likely to sell.
