We are Rethinking Tourism
All indications are that the Western Cape can look forward to a much busier tourism season than last year. This is brilliant news for our tourism industry, which – like the rest of the world - took a massive knock due to COVID-19 travel restrictions. Drakenstein and many of our businesses rely heavily on the income that tourism generates, and while we can now start breathing a collective sigh of relief, we also need to ensure that our establishments are ready, well-stocked and well-staffed to roll out the red carpet for our visitors. In line with the 2022 World Tourism Day theme, we here at Drakenstein Municipality are rethinking tourism. We are broadening our horizons and diversifying our tourism offerings to create a destination where there is a bit of something for everyone. In this edition Cheryl Phillips , Senior Manager for Economic Development and Tourism at the Municipality, spells out our exciting plans to establish Drakenstein as a wellness, sport, and adventure tourism destination of choice. Vars also popped in at Councillor Laurichia van Niekerk , Mayoral Committee Member for Planning and Development, and Darren Herbst from Paarl Trails to find out how the two organisations work together to promote specifically sport and adventure tourism. Sharing their excitement, Ingrid Hindle, chief executive officer and co-owner of the Santé Wellness Retreat and Spa in Simondium, says Drakenstein creates the perfect environment for a spa hotel such as theirs with its majestic mountains, clean air, and calm and relaxed atmosphere. And they are determined to keep their five-star tourism grading by continuing to provide world-class services! Summer is almost upon us and it is time to dust off those hiking boots. We give away details of some hidden breakaways and departure points for unforgettable hikes in the Du Toit’s Kloof . Summer also means the start of the municipal swimming season and our teams have been working hard to get all our swimming pools in pristine condition. They are ready to welcome you for a day of fun in the sun. This month Vars features local wine ambassador Al-Jarreau Jantjies , also known as Ajay, who tells us where his love for wine originated from, and how he won the 2022 WineLand Media 30 Under 30 award. He reckons the wine industry chose him and not the other way around.
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VARS | September
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