SA stand draws renewed interest at WTM

SOUTH African Tourism reported from World Travel Market in London that interest in the country remained extremely high, with many exhibitors having signed significant deals despite the fact that WTM was often regarded more as a ‘window shopping’ exhibition rather than one during which solid deals were negotiated. The visually rich double-storey South Africa stand – showcasing 116 SA exhibitors including the nine Emerging Entrepreneur of the Year Award (Eteya) finalists - has been a hive of activity over the past three days. South African Tourism’s annual WTM media conference on Monday attracted 40 of the world’s leading travel trade journalists, doubling last year’s attendance. Trade response to the first Open Trade Forum held on Tuesday also attracted high interest with issues of concern to the trade openly discussed. The issues addressed included the moves being taken to ensure environmental sustainability, airlift and the possible impact of the strengthening rand. The world-class reputation of SA as a preferred destination of choice was further enhanced with South Africa again excelling in the prestigious World Travel Awards 2003 announced on Tuesday. South African Tourism ceo, Cheryl Carolus, said: “South Africa has certainly made its presence felt at this year’s WTM. There has never been a better time for the overseas trade to sell South Africa and Team SA’s success across the board has never been stronger. We congratulate all our world-class products that have done SA so proud yet again and commend all the SA exhibitors who have joined us to sell our beautiful country to the world during this past week.” (Miguel de Sousa)