As the local hospitality sector prepares for international tourists this summer, businesses have been reminded to continue supporting domestic travellers who have helped keep the industry afloat during uncertain times.
The Federated Hospitality Association of Southern Africa (Fedhasa) in the Western Cape says domestic tourism has helped sustain the industry amid a very difficult period due to the Covid-19 pandemic.
However, when it comes to offering discounted rates for local travellers, each business must make their own call, says Fedhasa Western Cape chair Jeremy Clayton.
Clayton says the industry offers a variety of accommodation offerings suited to different budgets.
“There are options out there and each business needs to determine where their loyalties lie and how they support the local market”, he tells CapeTalk.
Clayton says some accommodation providers differentiate between local and international visitors, but it’s a decision which often commercially driven.
He says businesses need to strike a balance between catering to the international market and maintaining domestic bookings.
“The more that we see domestic travel happening within South Africa, the more sustainable the industry is in the future”, he adds.
Listen to Jeremy Clayton’s full interview with Refilwe Moloto of Cape Talk Radio by clicking on the link below:
https://omny.fm/shows/capetalk-breakfast/wanderlust-wednesday-south-africans-dont-want-to-p/embed
