Indian travel agents “Learn South Africa”

Encouraged by the response and to meet the growing demand and interest in the country, South Africa plans to enlarge its popular “Learn South Africa” training program, which is now underway in 15

Encouraged by the response and to meet the growing demand and interest in the country, South Africa plans to enlarge its popular “Learn South Africa” training program, which is now underway in 15 cities, with a target to interact with 1,600 travel agents.

As many as 6 more cities, mostly Tier 2 and 3, have shown interest in having such modules, Ms. Hanneli Slabber, Country Manager for South African Tourism, said in New Delhi, India, on July 17 during the training program where the Travel Agents Association of India has been involved so that those who participate are serious in promoting South Africa.

She said that the average stay of Indians has gone up to 13.5 days, from 12 days, and the prospects for 2015 and beyond were bright as the visa regime is being streamlined.

Ms. Slabber admitted that 2014 had not been too good as the Ebola fear had hit arrivals, because the perception was that South Africa, being in Africa, was effected by it, although this was not the case.

She revealed that 60 percent of the budget for India was spent on agents’ activities, showing how serious South African Tourism is in dealing with travel agents.

The Meetings, Incentives, Conferences & Exhibitions (MICE) industry was also a very strong segment from India which was good for the economy.

The special needs of Indian tourists, including food, timings, and TV programs, were being taken care of she said, adding that Indians were shopping for designer items and for music from Senegal, in South Africa, among other things.

Nine suppliers from South Africa are visiting 15 cities in India and include representatives from Abercrombie and Kent, Tsogo Sun, Private Safari, Extraordinary, Accor Hotels, Emirates, TravCare, and South African Airways.

About the author

Avatar of Linda Hohnholz

Linda Hohnholz

Editor in chief for eTurboNews based in the eTN HQ.

Share to...