A new survey to discern the needs of South African travellers found that the culture of exploring and holiday making is something that needs to be further developed. In a country with a 50 million strong population and an incredible country to explore at our disposal, travel needs to become less purpose driven and more of a lifestyle.  “We need to develop a holiday culture amongst ourselves which will lead to a sustainable tourism industry beyond 2010” says Corne Wolmarans, GM of Travel Experience in South Africa.

The trend in consumer behaviour has seen a shift with more South Africans on the lookout for local holidays. Looking local presents a myriad of options and can be overwhelming, but there has been a significant shift when looking for travel solutions from traditional travel agencies in the search for better convenience and a more bespoke offering.

Consumers are looking for simple travel solutions which offer them concise information and convenience when it comes to advice on where to go and everything that goes along with taking a holiday. The first step is choosing a place to go and then follows stocking up on necessary accessories such as adapters, luggage, travel insurance and first aid kits. For travellers wishing to roam further afield than our SA borders, international driver’s permits and cross border documents, including the dreaded visa, need to be arranged.

Travel Experience stores offer a 3600 travel solution for domestic and international travellers alike. The concept has been met with great excitement and a hugely positive response in the 14 stores situated in prominent centres around South Africa in which it has launched, bringing with it the added value of association to the strong reputation of the AA and the South African Travel Centre brands.

Domestic travel is a fundamental stronghold of the tourism industry, with domestic trips contributing to 80% of total tourism in South Africa in relation to 20% by foreign arrivals.2 “We need to be more aware of how easy it can be to get from A to B in South Africa to boost our industry from within and ultimately create a stable and sustainable industry and a more relaxed and stress-free nation” concludes Wolmarans

By Muzi Mohale