Johannesburg, 11 December 2023: In the face of prevailing economic challenges, South Africa’s hospitality and leisure sector is experiencing a notable resurgence, with the Western Cape emerging as a focal point of growth. As the second-largest contributor to the nation’s economy at present, the industry demonstrates significant year-on-year growth, overcoming setbacks endured during the global pandemic. Donovan Muirhead, Multi-Unit General Manager at Indalo Hotels and Leisure, a subsidiary of Afrirent Holdings, provides insights into this trend.
“Despite the current harsh economic conditions, South Africa’s hotels and leisure business is defying expectations, showcasing a remarkable recovery after the disruptions caused by the global pandemic,” says Mr Muirhead.
Data from Statistics South Africa has shown over 4.8 million arrivals into the country in the first half of 2023 alone. As we go into the peak international travel period October through to March this figure is expected to exceed 10 million visitors to our country. This remarkable 70.6% increase when compared to 2022. Both local and international travellers are capitalising on the new “Bleisure culture”, incorporating back to the office with some leisure travel thrown in.
Our Indalo Hotels & Leisure Skukuza Golf Club, “the wildest course on earth” situated within the Kruger National Park just outside Skukuza main camp and home to Africa’s renowned big 5 wildlife, Mr Muirhead notes: “The proximity to nature and the animals that frequent the property are integral to the experience, making it a top choice for local and international visitors. Conference delegates often join us for a round of golf while enjoying the bushveld surroundings. These Bleisure visitors don’t even need to bring their clubs – we have everything they need with our modern facilities.”.
A recent report from the World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC) underscores the rise of this hybrid or blended traveller, contributing to extended trip durations. The report suggests that this practice is poised to support the ongoing global tourism rebound. Anticipating significant growth, global spending by travellers combining business with leisure is projected to more than double from R150 billion in 2021 to R360 billion by 2027.
As travellers embark on their journeys to their holiday destinations, Indalo Hotels & Leisure would like to wish everyone from near and far a wonderful and safe festive season as they enjoy and create lasting memories with loved ones in our beautiful country.
End
About Afrirent Holdings
Afrirent Holdings is a multi-disciplinary South African company that offers a high degree of specialisation, and globally-relevant expertise in diverse domains. Established 20 years ago in 2003, Afrirent Holdings is a 100% black female-owned business operating in the transport and logistics, environmental, and tourism sectors through its three divisions Afrirent Mobility, Afrirent Enviro, and Indalo Hotels & Leisure. The combination of these offerings ensures that Afrirent Holdings is the ideal partner for public and private entities.
More about Afrirent is available at: https://www.afrirentholdings.co.za/
For any media queries, please contact:
Lerato Matoko: leratoma@meropa.co.za
