Enjoy Durban’s virtual July experience

THE launch of the Durban Virtual July Experience campaign coincides with a moment that ushers in a glimmer of hope, especially to the tourism and hospitality businesses, as the city recently entered advanced level three lockdown regulations.

Speaking at the launch of the Durban Virtual July Experience, incorporating the Vodacom Durban July (VDJ) horseracing event taking place on 25 July, Mayor of eThekwini Municipality, Councillor Mxolisi Kaunda, said the municipality remained hopeful that the City’s economic recovery plan, which was presented in April, will go a long way in assisting businesses to recover.

The Durban Virtual July Experience is a concept that will promote the travel experience that the city of Durban has to offer through its attractions and remind people of what it felt like to be in Durban during the Vodacom Durban July weekend.

It is also aimed at encouraging visitors especially locals to explore what Durban has to offer as the lockdown regulations are gradually de-risked.

This campaign follows the Durban Cares and Know Your Durban Campaign that the City has activated since the start of the lockdown as part of keeping the Durban brand awareness alive.

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The campaign encompasses an integrated virtual marketing plan for the city that includes radio, TV and digital campaign that will highlight Durban’s wide range of tourism products and attractions.

During this launch, the socio-economic impact of one the VDJ was unpacked.

While it is appreciated that expected economic spins offs are not equivalent to those that would be gained in a normal Durban July festivity, the City is encouraged that from the various business activities, there will be beneficiaries in the value chain of the required goods and services.

Further, the 2020 VDJ will be a creative stage for the City’s fashion programme (Durban Fashion Fair) and will prompt the reimagination in the staging of different pillars of the VDJ including the glitz and glamour of the fashion show.

For the first time in history of its inception, it will be happening behind closed doors due to lockdown regulations that prevents the hosting of mass events and gatherings.

But horseracing followers across the world can still be part of the VDJ through various media platforms as they reminisce on their experiences of visiting Durban.

Kaunda went on the explain that most of the elements that have made the Vodacom Durban July, like fashion and entertainment, will also be featured in this year’s gala, even though people will not be at the venue physically.

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