SEPTEMBER is Tourism Month and Umhlanga Tourism is encouraging locals as well as the business sector to promote tourism.
Keeping in line with the theme – Tourism invests in a green future – chairperson for the body Jeannie Sarno is encouraging locals and tourists who visit the ‘FunShine Coast’ to visit parks, nature reserves and the like.
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“There are tons of activities locals and tourists can do outdoors such as game viewing, walking trails, bird viewing and visiting our parks. The Umhlanga Lagoon Nature Reserve is unfortunately closed but the Beachwood Mangroves can still be visited on certain days. We also have parks such as the Durbanview Park and Chris Saunders Park to name a few,” she added.
For those who love the ocean there’s deep sea fishing, boat trips, kite surfing, snorkeling, fishing, shark educational show and watersports.
She also encourages businesses to take a greener approach in their premises by ensuring that they recycle and eliminate plastic use where they can.
“Try to be more aware of recycling. DSW have announced that the orange recycling bags are back and that residents can contact them via email so they can deliver right to your doors. For a faster approach, you can also pick up the bags at 188 Sandile Thusi Road, Morningside. Let’s all do our bit,” said Sarno.
In addition, she added that there are fantastic promotions being offered this Tourism Month by members for patrons to take advantage of.
“Visit our Facebook page Umhlanga – The FunShine Coast, they will be able to keep track of the specials that our members are offering throughout the month. Non-members who want to benefit from this – restaurants, establishments, sports centres and the like – are more than welcome to take advantage Facebook page by tagging us in their posts. The idea is to attract tourists to our beautiful town,” said Sarno.
She added that Umhlanga Tourism has placed a large red bin near the UIP offices specifically for e-waste. The bin is emptied on Mondays and Fridays and all businesses and residents are encouraged to get rid of their e-waste in the correct manner.
“Everyone can do their part by not allowing these items to land up in landfills. There are so many ways we can all help and these are just the few that will most definitely make a difference,” said Sarno.
Promoting tourism in general, not only during Tourism Month, she said can be the easiest thing ever.
“A smile to the person you walk past on the promenade can make a world of a difference to the receiver of that smile and most of the time that smile is contagious , it can surprise you to see how far it can stretch out. The bigger issues are being worked on as we speak, perhaps not as speedily as we would like them be done but it’s happening. How can you do your part? Be an ambassador of your own town. Promote and share an activity or experience you have had with us on our Facebook page. Let that ocean of positivity embrace everyone. It is an honour that we should be called the FunShine Coast so let’s be more fun,” added Sarno.
To check out which places you can visit this Tourism Month visit https://umhlangarockstourism.co.za/
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