Durban is the place to be this summer holiday season. This was the message that reverberated throughout the launch of the Durban tourism summer campaign. The launch took place at the Coastal Beach Resort that overlooks Umgababa Beach on the 11th of September.
EThekwini Mayor Councillor Cyril Xaba unveiled the City’s bumper summer campaign dubbed ‘Endless waves of tranquility’ to position Durban as a destination of choice.
The campaign seeks to ensure that Durban remains top of mind of tourists while the theme calls on everyone to intensify campaigns to showcase Durban’s hidden gems to both domestic and international visitors.
Mayor Xaba said no effort must be spared to promote the City’s attractions including township and rural tourism products, parks, walking trails, game reserves ,and the rich cultural heritage that makes the City a melting pot of culture.
Guests, including members of the media, tourism stakeholders and influencers were treated to activities such as boat rides on the Inanda Dam, helicopter rides, and quad biking.
“Last week, we showcased another township tourism gem, the Coastal Beach Resort located on the serene shores of Umgababa where you can enjoy beach horse riding and other activities. Our efforts of rebuilding the tourism sector after the floods are paying off and has contributed immensely to the increase of visitors to Durban,” said Mayor Kaunda.
During the launch, Durban Tourism unpacked festive season plans including holiday packages and safety measures that will be implemented during the summer. Tourists are encouraged to start booking their summer holidays in Durban as projections indicate over 1.3 million visitors are expected to flock to Durban during the 2024/25 summer season.
Mayor Xaba said there is an estimated occupancy rate of more than 65 percent.
“Projections indicate a direct spend of around R2.5 million contributing approximately R6.3 million to the GDP, while creating about 11 423 employment opportunities. Tourism is one sector which has a multiplier effect on the economy,” he said.
He said it was important to support the tourism sector as it was a major contributor to job creations. He cited the Coastal Beach Resort in Umgababa as an example, saying the establishment started in 2015 as a Shisanyama and by 2021 it had developed into a fully-fledged resort offering 25 accommodation rooms, a restaurant, lounge, pool and was an events venue.
“This is why the City will continue to support employment creation in the tourism sector. Rural and township development also remains an important element for the City,” he added.
