Tourism in uMhlanga on the road to recovery

THERE is a rising momentum behind tourism in uMhlanga, and that certainly showed over the festive season.

Jeannie Sarno, chairperson of Umhlanga Tourism, said while recovery towards pre-Covid-19 tourist numbers is still climbing, uMhlanga still remains an attractive destination for both domestic and international travellers.

“In the last two years, the opening and closure of the beaches due to E. coli levels really affected our tourist numbers. Booking wise, this year has been a little bit slower than previous years, however, I think that’s just because people want security and commitment when booking. I feel now there is growing momentum which we hope to take into the new year to ensure our occupancy rates and visitor numbers continue to increase.

Also read: Tourism department thanks local travellers

“I’m very pleased with the number of people, that is residents and locals, who’ve been the biggest numbers coming down to uMhlanga. That has been a massive positive. I think we are on an incline, especially in terms of numbers, and because of that, it is a win-win for everyone, from hotels to restaurants and bars, from bed and breakfasts (B&Bs) to tour operators. This year, we brought back the Umhlanga Summer Festival which we feel broke the chains for the people at home. We had a free fun run/walk at the start of the festive period followed by the Carols by Candlelight event and our festival which was an undoubtable hit,” she said.

Sarno added that the repair of the ablution facilities on the promenade and the renovation to the Whalebone Pier were also positives as well as the suspension of loadshedding

“We have an incredible product in our beaches, and we need to make sure they are being used and always available. I’ve spoken to a few visitors who have shared only positive stories. I do feel summer has this energy to it, and it brings such a positive aura out of people,” she said.

Also read: Tourist numbers increase over festive season

Talk has already turned to the Easter holidays.

“Our Summer Festival was the first in several years, and we feel we need the same energy for the Easter period. Our team will sit down this week to plan for an Easter Festival,” she said.

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