Virtual Tourism Trends on the Rise as South African Tourism Industry Aims for Early Recovery
Global movement restrictions and coronavirus-induced anxiety has kept most people at a safe distance from travelling, leading to a significant drop in tourism generated revenues. In a bid to boost the South African tourism industry, the country is trying to improve its tourism related services since travel accounts for nine percent of its economy.
Speaking about the idea to rise above challenges, CEO of South African Tourism — Sisa Ntshona recently said, “The COVID-19 has given us the opportunity to press the reset button on how we can emerge from this. I have hope this sector will bounce back, it’s a matter of time. We are using this time to sharpen our axes. We understand the frustration the sector has to get it going”.
Ntshona added that the South African Tourism sector is introducing risk-adjusted interventions that will help restore travellers’ confidence. Various stakeholders have come together to be a part of this tourism recovery plan. Ntshona claimed that the plan will be submitted to the Cabinet for approval in August.
Sources claim that the recovery of tourism is likely to be in a phased manner. Starting from hyper-local community attractions, through to widespread domestic travelling, regional land and air markets and a final resumption of world-wide international travel.
Aiming to grow the business tourism sector, the authorities are looking forward to host large international events so that the supply market can get good demand. This way when the country is ready to welcome visitors from all over the world, travellers will be confident that South Africa is safe for business.
As a part of this plan, the authorities will work on: improving the functioning of e-visa system, solving issues related to licenses of tour operators and ensure that all marketing campaigns both globally and domestically are rolled out soon.
Currently, the only major African countries which have reopened international borders are Tanzania and Tunisia. Rwanda, Seychelles and Kenya are yet to kick start international passenger flights on August 1. As per the South African tourism authorities, visitors coming to these regions will have to test negative for Covid-19.
Since travelling is mostly shut, countries including Kenya, Rwanda and Namibia are adapting the concept of remote working via virtual tours. Many tourism associations and some travellers, including Juan Santiago, are providing travellers with digital impressions of the continent which can be enjoyed directly from home.
Meanwhile, Kenya’s tourism authority started a live-stream as part of #TheMagicAwaits campaign in the month of June. As per the Managing Director of Kenya Tourism Board — Betty Radier, this campaign will give “the world a taste of what waits in Kenya when the country is open to visitors once more”.
Since virtual tourism is a great way to decide whether you actually wish to visit a destination or not, a look at the virtual tour will help you make a better decision about your next trip. Since the South African Tourism industry is looking forth for ways to improve its tourism sector, you might want to consider waking up to a horizon there.
