Some of the highlights we picked up on during the past 3 days at WTM Africa '23.
New 'buzzwords' / phrases doing the rounds:
- Responsible Tourism.
- Human Interaction.
- Curiosity about cultures, foods, fashion & art.
- Inclusivity and involvement of ALL communities.
- Tourism has to benefit the communities it is practiced in.
- Tourism should celebrate the natural environment, not be the reason for monstrous structures being developed on it, effectively defacing it's beauty.
- Tourists want to make a positive impact on the places they visit.
- Nature positive Tourism.
Some points from today's workshops:
- Avoid waste and over consumption.
- Use local resources sustainably.
- Maintain & encourage natural, economic, social and cultural diversity.
- Be sensitive to the host culture.
- Involve the local community in planning and decision making.
- Assess environmental, social and economic impacts as a prerequisite to developing Tourism.
- Ensure communities are involved in and benefit from Tourism.
- Market Tourism that is responsible, respecting local, natural and cultural environments.
- Monitor impacts of tourism and ensure open disclosure of information.
Responsible Tourism has emerged as most appropriate because:
- It recognises the responsibility of the government and private sector to involve the previously neglected in the Tourism industry.
- Responsible Tourism is 'on trend' with the demand of the international marketplace.
- Responsible Tourism is a new concept - a fresh approach that South Africa can take to the marketplace.
- It offers South Africa the opportunity to be a leader in the 'new tourism', setting the new standard rather than always following the pack.
- Responsible Tourism is all-embracing, involving proactive participation and involvement by ALL stakeholders; private sector, government, local communities, previously neglected sectors, consumers, NGO's, the media and employees.
- Responsible Tourism is not a luxury for South Africa, it
We had a wonderful second day at WTM Africa '23 in Cape Town.
Countless meetings were held with stakeholders, movers and shakers who have access to the kind of leverage needed by our members to get ahead of the game.
We also attended an extremely inspirational talk, presented by the following keynote speakers:
- Naledi Khabo (African Tourism Association - she is based in New York)
- Bheki Dube (Founder of Curiosity)
- Koyo Kouoh (Exhibition Curator @ Zeits Museum of Contemporary Art - Africa)
The talk they hosted was titled 'How to bridge the gap between luxury & diversity'
The point was raised that travel trends are rapidly changing.
Previously, luxury travel to Africa was considered to be a Safari, with a stay in an exquisite lodge, but after the pandemic humanity faced, trends have changed drastically.
There is a redefinition of luxury at play:
- Having time to travel is luxury.
- Being able to meander or move slowly is luxury.
- Human connection, interaction and physical time spent learning a stranger's story and discovering their talent is luxury.
- Having unique experiences and indulging one's curiosity is luxury.
- Mobility & freedom are luxuries.
Furthermore Koyo pointed out that museum visits, access to and the practice of creating art are considered luxuries in Africa, which she believes is a sad misconception, considering how vibrant and extremely talented we are. She believes that art has the ability to give people a common purpose and connection.
A line she used that struck a chord with us was 'claim a space of marvel in whatever it is you do' she emplored people from the Tourism Industry to approach the collection of experiences for tourists in the same way a Curator would.
'We should use our potential tourist's curiosity as a vehicle, to draw them into the experiences Africa has to offer'
She also said that; 'The more real, grounded, compelling and inspiring your story is, the more successful your business will be. You should al
Vuyokazi Kitsi, Evan Chapman, Richard Woest (Hair on Bowtie) & Marlene Bartlett (Design Fixer 101) arrived safely today in Cape Town.
They will be joining Lynne Clarke at the WTM Africa Trade Show tomorrow.
Lynne has already spent the first day at WTM AFRICA, working hard to represent Plettenberg Bay Tourism, our beautiful town and valued members.
We will be posting updates of everything our team gets up to and encounters at this important event, so be sure to stay tuned!
Join us in welcoming our member, FLHAT Ink.
FLHAT Ink (Faith, Love, Hope, And, Tattoos) was opened by its highly creative and vibrant owner, Peter Reid in 2017.
Peter’s love for tattooing started in the late 90’s and he has been honing his skill ever since. His favourite part of being a tattoo artist is that no two days are ever the same, because no two people request the same artwork or share the same taste. He enjoys the variety and excitement it brings to his life and the constant flow of interesting people he meets.
If permanent ink requires too much commitment for you, you can always opt for one of his intricate and beautiful Henna Tattoos.
Peter is also a brilliant barista, a skill he gained during his years working as a waiter and he has expanded the shop to include a coffee shop that makes divinely, indulgent coffees and serves refreshing beverages for those who abstain from ‘jitter juice’.
With both in- and outdoor seating, Wi-Fi & electricity, this is the perfect, tranquil and vibrant space to bring your laptop or smartphone, order a coffee and get some work done during those pesky mid-day loadshedding hours, or simply meet a special friend for a good ol’ natter.
Contact: 060 518 4964
Email: [email protected]
Website: www.flhatink.co.za
Facebook: Faith Love Hope
Thank you for joining us Peter, we wish you enormous success with your business!
#LovePlett #TourismInMotion #gardenroute
Join us in welcoming our member and chosen charity Karoo Donkey Sanctuary.
This prestigious animal rescue, rehabilitation and care facility was founded by Jonno Sherwin.
Their hard work and many years in the trenches of Donkey Welfare in Africa has afforded them the enormous accolade of becoming the first equine sanctuary on the African continent to be awarded Global Federation of Animal Sanctuaries (GFAS) Verification.
The GFAS Verification was finally received last month, after 12 months of due diligence focused around rigorous peer-reviewed animal care standards, covering the areas of ethics, governance, best care practices, facility adherence, staffing, financial management, integrity, record keeping, management, team aptitude, education, outreach, stewardship, professionalism, leadership, integrity, excellence, safety policies, protocols, and training to name a few - that culminated in an intensive site visit back in November 2022.
GFAS recognised them as being a “True Sanctuary”, which in itself requires quite some education at public and government level.
Their GFAS Verification provides a clear and trusted means for the public and donors to recognize the Karoo Donkey Sanctuary as an exceptional animal rescue organization.
It ratifies their mission, their work and their philosophy that all vulnerable and persecuted animals require true sanctuary and we could not be more proud of Karoo Donkey Sanctuary, now located in The Crags – Plettenberg Bay!
They welcome visitors for guided walks and interaction with the animals. You can bring apples and carrots to donate, which will be shared equally among residents by their carers to prevent zealous stampedes.
Guided Tour Cost: R200 per adult (R100 per child under 10)
Tour Duration: 1 Hour.
Days: 7 Days per week.
Tour Times: 10:00, 12:00 & 14:00.
Address: Askop Road. The Crags. Plettenberg Bay (Right next to the N2)
Contact: 082 900 6103
Email: [email protected]
Website: www.karoodonkey.org
Facebook:
A warm welcome to our member, Archery Adventures By Chris!
Owned and operated by Chris Spiess and his wife Karin and located in tranquil Wittedrift, close to Plettenberg Bay town.
After spending the day enjoying and learning more about this fun, outdoor adventure activity, we could clearly see why this establishment beat 99 fellow competitors in the Adventure Tourism sector, to obtain the top spot in Dirty Boots’ Magazine titled, ‘100 Best Adventures in South Africa’ in 2022.
Upon arrival, we knew absolutely NOTHING about archery, but our kind, well-spoken, professional instructor, Andre Fourie, took us under his wing and patiently explained everything we needed to know in order to guarantee a fun-filled, accomplished (yes we hit the targets) afternoon.
Honestly, we haven’t laughed this much in ages! Our spirits were lifted, we spent time outdoors on their stunning 3D target range, we learnt something new and got to know this wonderful team of people better.
It is excellent value for money, the equipment is perfectly maintained, the kit and premises are impeccably clean and well kept.
They can also host groups, such as children’s parties, corporate team building events, bachelors/bachelorettes.
You will instantly earn the accolade amongst your friends for throwing the most unique party if you host it at Archery Adventures!
Contact: 076 532 4002
Email: [email protected]
Web: www.archeryadventures.co.za
Address: 18 Stofpad Rd. Wittedrift. Plettenberg Bay.
Facebook: Archery Adventures by Chris
Thank you for the wonderful time we had with your team, Chris, Karin & Andre. May your business be abundantly blessed.
#LovePlett #TourismInMotion #gardenroute #SATourism
Plettenberg Bay Tourism Board’s first Member Meeting of 2023, graciously hosted by one of our paid members, Quadbike Adventures, was a huge success and incredible fun!
We would like to thank everyone who took the time to join us in kicking off, what we believe, is set to be a busy and prosperous year for our beautiful bay.
Thank you to all our members who are willing to join in dialogue, brainstorming and networking. These elements form the cornerstone to formulating solutions that can improve business in the tourism sector for ALL. Your voices, needs, opinions and ideas TRULY matter and play an integral role in all we do going forward.
Without communication, inclusivity, transparency and collaboration from all in our community, we would not be able to achieve the goals we have set out to.
We are very excited about tackling all the work and possibilities lying ahead, as well as employing the brilliant ideas our members have been sharing.
Thank you very much to Victoria, Matthew, Hester & Robbie of Quadbike Adventures, for hosting us and spoiling us to a fun outride on your Quads – Definitely the most epic way to start the week!
Another shout out and big thank you to The Pitstop at Meat Market (Harkerville) for the delectable, juicy and fresh Boerewors rolls they prepared and had on sale for our meeting.
May the year ahead be abundantly blessed for ALL in Plettenberg Bay.
#loveplett #TourismInMotion #SATourism
Fish'in Plett is one of our newest paid members.
This local business offers Fishing Charters in the Keurbooms & Bitou Rivers. Please give their page a like and follow to keep up to date with their latest packages and offerings.
#fishingcharters #fishing #river #boating #plettenbergbaytourismboard #adventure
#plettenbergbay #plettsummer #plett
Sea Express Bitou Scape Online Newspaper Knysna-Plett Herald Plett News and Info
Die Plaas Restaurant, Takeaway & Caterers.
Meet John Ruiters, a hugely inspirational man with a heart of gold that beats for the upliftment of his community & people.
John abandoned his technical field and decided to embrace his love for cooking full time when he opened his Restaurant & Takeaway ‘Die Plaas’ (New Horizons) in 2015.
His passion for cooking was fostered by his Italian Mother, Laurina Ripeppi, whom he speaks of with great love and fondness.
John and his highly skilled team at Die Plaas, have weathered a multitude of challenges over the years, including lockdowns & recent cooking oil price increases. He is a very deep thinking, strategist who, together with his team, has always managed to stay afloat and continue serving delicious food, without compromising quality.
Die Plaas consist of a Takeaway, as well as a seated Restaurant with capacity for 20 guests. Please note that booking is essential, should you want to visit the Restaurant. Die Plaas also caters mouth-watering foods for events.
Since discovering Die Plaas, we have had the pleasure of enjoying their Calamari Gatsby as well as Calamari / Hake / Chips (French Fries) Combo, which were both delectable, not to mention the fair pricing and large portion sizes. Another noteworthy fact is that the old cast iron coal stove inside their Restaurant is still in working order, we can’t wait to try a meal prepared the old-fashioned way!
Die Plaas is a definite must-visit for anyone needing a wholesome meal after a long adventure-filled day in Plettenberg Bay.
Address: 8780 Swarthout Street, New Horizons, Plettenberg Bay.
Contact: 079 873 0957 (John Ruiters) 082 301 9548 (Dezi – Manager)
Opening Hours: 12am to 7pm (weekdays) 12am to 9pm (Fri- Sun)
Thank you for taking the time to talk to Plettenberg Bay Tourism Board John. It was an absolute pleasure meeting you, we wish you and your business great success!
Pinky Rala’s Tshisanyama
Meet Pinky Rala, the purveyor of feel good, home-made, soul food.
We were fortunate to catch Pinky in her kitchen, busy prepping for her busy, famished, ‘after work’ Friday clients. She was in the middle of kneading dough for her soft, fluffy ‘Amagwinya’ (Vetkoek).
Pinky started her Tshisanyama in 2006 after returning home to Plettenberg Bay, from Cape Town.
She is also a certified Palliative Care Worker and whilst we mourn the loss of her ‘magical, loving touch’, to the frail care industry… we most definitely celebrate that all that ‘love and care’ turned towards filling our bellies with delicious food!
Pinky revels in experimenting with recipes and is always eager to try new flavours and techniques.
She also caters for events, so be sure to call her if you’d prefer to chill with your ‘crew’ instead of running around like ‘Martha Steward’ having no fun at your own birthday, year end function, engagement party or baby shower.
Her menu includes; Amagwinya (Vetkoek), Braaivleis (BBQ’d meats cooked on open wood fire), Pap (Maize Porridge), Chakalaka (Google it) and Salads.
For a truly African Tshisanyama experience… word has it, that her Chicken Feet are the best in town – please call beforehand to make sure she has them on the evening’s menu.
Address: 10375 Kershout Rd, New Horizons (Pinetrees), Plettenberg Bay.
Contact: 062 212 1390 (Available on WhatsApp)
Thank you for taking the time to talk to Plettenberg Bay Tourism Board Pinky. It was an absolute pleasure meeting you, we wish you and your business great success!
#Loveplett #TourismInMotion #TownshipTourism #StorngerTogether
Plettenberg Bay Tourism Board’s Fourth Public Meeting was held this morning.
We are aware that peak season is upon us all and therefore, truly appreciate each and every person from our beautiful and diverse community who made the time to join us, introduce themselves, network amongst each other and share their concerns, thoughts, insights, visions & ideas with all present.
We guarantee you, that none of the points you’ve raised have fallen on deaf ears.
Our mission is to work hard (in a collaborative manner) on solutions that meet the needs of our valued members and through our actions / initiatives bolster our Tourism Sector, for the greater good of ALL in Plettenberg Bay.
We wish you all a successful December 2022 peak season and look very much forward to continuing our collaboration with you in the future.
We would also like to thank Mobys at Central Beach for being our gracious hosts this morning.
#Loveplett #TourisimInMotion #plettenbergbaytourism #StrongerTogether
Mandys Take Away
Meet Mandy Heers, who opened this beautiful, neat and professional takeaway in New Horizons near the N2 turn off.
Mandy learnt her cooking skills from Mr. Chris Fereira, whilst working at his establishment in Plettenberg Bay CBD, and we are eternally grateful for the training he gave her, because her food is delicious and was a lifesaver to the hungry members of our team during our visit.
Mandy has in turn imparted her knowledge to her own employees.
It is inspiring to see how well people do, when they are willing to uplift one another by sharing their skills.
Mandys Take Away is a fairly new establishment (opened in June 2022) but her years of experience in the takeaway industry show clearly, in how organised and well presented her establishment is.
They serve a wide variety of foods including, Chips (French Fries), Hake, Calamari, Chicken Wings, Russians, Burgers and Gatsby’s at very affordable prices to the community.
Clients are also welcome to look at the menu (see picture) and call their orders in for collection, if they do not feel like waiting (listing both contact numbers below).
Address: 3265 Saringa Rd, New Horizons, Plettenberg Bay.
Contact: Mandy 071 783 7485 or Jamie 065 549 8415
Thank you for taking the time to talk to Plettenberg Bay Tourism Board Mandy. It was an absolute pleasure meeting you, we wish you and your business great success!
Quadbike Adventures’ Grand Opening!
We simply couldn’t resist popping in and congratulating this enthusiastic, bubbly and well organised team on their Grand Opening today.
The team consists of Matthew & Victoria Rowe, Hester & Robbie Knoetze, Greg Cohen (Who let me accompany him on a ride), Mike Mallel and their amazing guides, Wiseman Moyo & Simba Mandizha.
I always say; ‘You didn’t have good, clean fun, unless you come out the other end dirty’!
I absolutely enjoyed watching Imti (a Dad visiting Plettenberg bay with his Wife and Son from Cape Town) enjoy this beautiful and safe, guided outride with his adorable little boy through the forest.
Quadbike Adventures are 100% ready and geared up to entertain our valued tourists this season with some ‘good, clean fun’ for the whole family!
Address: HVK24, N2, Harkerville, Plettenberg Bay (At the Meat Market)
Cell: 068 100 4769 or 082 379 2293
Thank you for taking the time to show Plettenberg Bay Tourism Board around Quadbike Adventures Team. We wish you all the best with your new business!
