Page 55 - TKZN Annual Report 2023/2024

Trade Training Workshops
A series of workshops were conducted aimed at equipping tour operators and travel agents with in-depth knowledge about KZN’s tourism products. These sessions covered new attractions, bespoke travel experiences, and best practices in selling KZN as a top destination.
Tourism KZN conducted an industry workshop with 54 KZN tour operators and guides on global standards and customer satisfaction.
The KZN Travel Academy, which took place in March 2024, was a successful programme that brought together 41 agents and travel agencies from SADC and domestic markets. The programme also involved 35 KZN trade partners who actively participated. During the event, there were various activities that showcased the diverse attractions of KZN. The participants had the opportunity to go on site visits to different regions, allowing them to experience the unique products and offerings of each area, as part of Tourism KZN’s commitment to geographic spread of destination packaging. These site visits provided valuable insights into the beauty and cultural richness of KZN. Additionally, the programme included presentations and workshops conducted by the Tourism KZN team. These sessions offered in- depth knowledge about the tourism potential and opportunities in KZN. The presentations also highlighted the various attractions and activities that could be included in travel packages. Overall, the KZN Travel Academy was a valuable platform for networking, learning, and promoting the tourism potential of KZN.
Trade Collaborations
TKZN continued working with KZN products to create visitor packages, sourcing and loading over 100 packages across accommodation, adventure, spa, and other specials onto their website from establishments province-wide.
District Engagements
Tourism KZN recognises the importance of inclusive growth, and in this regard we engaged with various district municipalities to better understand local tourism needs, and to impart skills on destination marketing. These engagements fostered collaboration and prepared communities to welcome and cater for tourists’ needs more effectively. These initiatives collectively contributed to boosting domestic tourism, enhancing visitor satisfaction, and fostering a robust tourism ecosystem in KwaZulu-Natal. By harnessing the power of well- orchestrated campaigns, active participation in consumer shows, and constructive engagements, Tourism KZN continues to advance its mission of establishing KwaZulu-Natal as the ultimate year-round destination for domestic travellers. These efforts underscore our commitment to driving sustainable tourism growth and ensuring that KwaZulu-Natal remains at the forefront of South Africa’s tourism industry.
International Marketing
Americas, Asia, Australasia
Americas
In the Americas region, Tourism KZN participated in the US Africa Showcase roadshow across four cities, namely; Seattle, Denver, Fort Lauderdale and Boston, training 206 agents. The APTA (Africa Promotion Tourism Association) conference engaged 100 US delegates on tourism recovery and product packaging.
Asia
China only opened their doors and interaction with the tourism sector on 8th January 2023 providing an opportunity to resume marketing efforts to attract Chinese travellers to KZN. Tourism KZN participated in the China Expo in Guilin and developed new trade relationships and facilitated an online Vietnam trade engagement session with local tour operators to create market linkages.
Tourism KZN also participated in a five-city India roadshow coordinated by South African Tourism, held in Jaipur, Ahmedabad, Bangalore, Dheli and Mumbai, where over 200 travel trade received training on the KZN tourism offerings. TKZN had an opportunity to present to Kuwait trade in an online programme organised by the South African Ambassador to Kuwait.
Australasia
Tourism KZN participated in the Africa Showcase Australia Roadshow. This took place across three cities, Brisbane, Sydney and Melbourne, where meetings were held with travel wholesalers and training of travel agents with the focus on KZN battlefields, wildlife safaris and Zulu culture - which are the most sought-after experiences by Australian travellers.
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