Independent research shows they spent an astonishing £28 billion at the event last year. It is the must attend event of the year for anyone in travel as each exhibitor punts their destinations and it will remain to be seen if Zimbabwean tourism can claim a slice of the pie. Zimbabwe will be represented by National Parks, GoToVictroriaFalls.com, the Zimbabwe Tourism Authority as well as stalwarts of the Zimbabwe Tourism landscape such as SafPar and Shearwater, Ilala Lodge and ZimSun to name a few. The Zimbabwe stand has the unenviable job of not only selling themselves, but trying to overcome the political image of the country which is in tatters after haphazard economic policy and directionless governance.Â
As a destination the Zimbabwean landscape is not a difficult sell – the untouched wilderness in the Zambezi Valley, Kariba houseboats and the rugged peaks of the Eastern Highlands trump most of the other landscapes of the Southern African region with their natural unexploited beauty, moreover because they are devoid of any tourists. Gregg Hughes of a leading safari company Wilderness Safaris pointed out to the Venues4Africa.com team in Cape Town that game in the Hwange Park was more abundant than the Delta or Chobe and tourists were likely to see a much vaster variety of species in Zimbabwe. Be that as it may, tourists won’t be lured across the border into the land of Bob-enomics where even though they are made to feel most welcome in the safest environments, their presence makes a statement that they support Mugabe’s regime and that is why they stay away.
No potential tourist need worry about fuel or food supplies, even as the situation in the Sunshine City deteriorates daily. Spring has sprung and for every Flame Lily there is a new export company bringing in goods from South Africa. Zimbabwe has outsourced its economy to South Africa so any visitor there will enjoy the standards they can expect in any South African tourist destination.
Therefore the challenge facing Zimbabwe tourism is winning over sceptics and changing perspectives and this is an insurmountable task. Tackling this task though are players such as the GoTo team. This year’s WTM will see GotoVictoriaFalls.com promoting Victoria Falls as one of the most astonishing natural-world and adventure destinations on the planet. Year on year growth in Victoria Falls has been astounding. Over 190 000 visitors are expected this year – some 40,000 more than last year. We look forward to spreading this good news at one of the biggest international travel shows on the calendar and further raising the profile of Victoria Falls - Zimbabwe’s true wonder, said spokesperson Tara Brown, when asked how she plans to tackle Zimbabwe’s battered image. The WTM Show is running from 12-16 November at Excel and registration can done online at www.wtmlondon.com. Any visitor to the Zimbabwe stand will be welcomed with open arms because any tourist they can lure to Zimbabwe for them is potential revenue and a means to keeping their operations viable and their staff employed. rian@venues4africa.com www.venues4africa.com
Online Real-time Bookings for South Africa
The future of Southern African travel is being embraced by accommodation venues in South Africa and new online real-time availability can be enjoyed on www.venues4africa.com. Log onto the home page and use our easy real-time search which shows available accommodation for your dates – no back and forth emailing or phone calls. And payment can be made through our secure payment system with emailed confirmations that are delivered to your inbox instantly. Email info@venues4africa.com with any questions.Â
Ideas for December
Inn on Rupurara, NyangaÂ
Inn on Rupurara is situated amongst huge granite outcrops on the western fringe of the Nyanga Mountains. The inn has been artistically built to blend into the surrounding landscape, which is spectacular as it overlooks a deep valley facing Rupurara a vast granite outcrop from which the Inn derives its name.
To book please contact Amanda on venues@yoafrica.com
Lodge at the Ancient City, Masvingo
Lodge at the Ancient City was built upon a ridge overlooking Great Zimbabwe. The lodge integrates the existing trees and boulders of the site with dry stone walling and soaring thatch structures. Lodge at the Ancient City consists of 14 lodges with twin double beds and 4 family lodges sleeping 4. All lodges are equipped with en-suite bathtub, shower, toilet and basin.To book please contact Amanda on venues@yoafrica.com          Â