NEW ORLEANS, Louisiana - Everyone knows and adores Cape Town in South Africa's Western Cape, but rarely do travelers turn their attention eastward and it's a shame that they don't. The Eastern Cape of South Africa has recently undertaken a new marketing campaign entitled "Are you up for it?' which is positioning the destination as the new adventure province of the country.
Travel Agent met with Susan Wilson, trade relations manager for the Eastern Cape, at the 2010 USTOA Annual Conference & Marketplace. Wilson was eager to share all that the destination has to offer travelers.
The best selling point for the Eastern Cape is its 'bush and beach' capability, according to Wilson. The Eastern Cape is home to four national parks, including the Addo Elephant Reserve, which is the second-largest in the country. The Sunshine Coast, which includes Port Elizabeth and East London, is home to breathtaking beaches and watersport activities, making this destination ideal for travelers who want to experience a bit of beachside lounging with their safari.
"It's very much an untapped destination," Wilson said.
The majority of American travelers spend their time visiting Cape Town when they venture to South Africa. But the Eastern Cape has its share of luxury and mid-level accommodations that blend into the natural environment, much of which is under conservation.
Wilson said the goal of the tourism department of the Eastern Cape is to promote it as a standalone destination, not just a quick add-on to a Western Cape tour. The department has seen expressed interest from Country Walkers and Goway Travel in creating itineraries that are Eastern Cape-specific.
Visit www.visiteasterncape.co.za.