Stories from 21 African countries await!
Tourism businesses from 21 African countries and 12 African tourism authorities have already confirmed their attendance at the largest global travel trade show for the continent. Products confirmed for this year include established tourism players as well as developing destinations such as the Central African Republic, Sudan and the DRC and promise to deliver new and interesting stories for your audiences.
DID YOU KNOW: 2017 figures from the WTTC and UNWTO show that even with just a 5% share of global travel numbers, 8,1% of Africa’s total GDP was generated from the tourism sector in 2017 (or USD 177 billion) and that tourism job creation was estimated at 6,5% of all employment on the continent.
Uncovering more Hidden Gems in 2018
Hidden Gems are all on the online diary system, waiting for you to tell their stories as part of the South African tourism experience. The Hidden Gems include small business tour operators, accommodation, arts and crafts attractions, restaurant owners and adventure operators. This year an additional 39 exhibitors have been added to the showcase from all around South Africa – a 50% increase on 2017. This is where the Hidden Gems are from:
KZN – 14 products (4 brand new)
Eastern Cape – 16 products (5 brand new)
Limpopo – 10 products (4 brand new)
Mpumalanga – 14 products (4 brand new)
Free State – 14 products (5 brand new)
North West – 14 products (4 brand new)
Northern Cape – 14 products (4 brand new)
Western Cape – 16 products (5 brand new)
Gauteng – 17 products (4 brand new)
SMMEs (Small, medium and micro enterprises) have been identified as productive drivers of inclusive economic growth and development in South Africa and around the world. They are considered an important contributor to the economy as drivers for creating jobs. You will get to meet the new Hidden Gems at the Speed Marketing sessions from 08:30 to 10:00 on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday morning at the show. Click below to book now.
Tuesday, 8th May | Culture, Heritage and History product showcase | Book Here
Wednesday, 9th May | Township Vibe product showcase | Book Here
Thursday, 10th May | Wildlife & Adventure showcase | Book Here
Transforming shopping stories
Travel and shopping go hand in hand – and we are once again hosting twenty vendors at the Sustainability Village. The vendors have been hand-picked to showcase and sell quality locally made and handcrafted products. Businesses such as these add immense value and texture to the African travel experience, and allow the tourist not only to take home a genuine piece of Africa, but also to contribute to broader economic empowerment of its people. Consider telling the story of why it make sense for travellers to invest in quality local products and get the insight first hand from our vendors on the lives that have been transformed. While you’re there – get something great to take home too!
Stories to eat out on
While Africa’s Travel Indaba will have some fantastic on-site catering including local food trucks – why not venture out a bit further to explore the food heritage of KwaZulu Natal. Book an Uber or taxi from the convention centre and take a trip to one of the popular restaurants around the city according to Trip Advisor or why not check out www.eatout.co.za rated and reviewed by locals as the best in Durban. For a real treat – experience great food at the winning Neighbourhood Eatery in the Gourmet Restaurant Awards for 2017 The Chefs Table in Umhlanga – just north of Durban. Don’t forget to book a table – locals love to dine out and you could be waiting for a spot!
No other trade show on the African continent tells a bigger story than Africa’s Travel Indaba 2018. Make sure you are there to tell the tale.
For more information, please visit