The much-anticipated Sho’t Left Travel Week is back, offering South Africans discounted travel deals of up to 50%.
The campaign, which has become one of the most successful initiatives promoting domestic tourism, will run from September 2 to 8 this year, encouraging locals to explore the diverse attractions within the country’s borders.
During Sho’t Left Travel Week, South Africans will have the opportunity to book discounted travel deals and plan their getaways at a time that suits them, according to the terms and conditions set by participating tourism establishments. This approach provides flexibility and encourages more people to take advantage of the travel offers.
With September being Tourism Month, this year UN Tourism’s theme is “Tourism and Peace”. South Africa has chosen to broaden the theme to “Tourism and Peace – 30 Years of Connecting People, Places, and Cultures”.
Speaking at the Tourism Month media launch in Kimberley, Minister of Tourism Patricia de Lille said the annual Sho’t Left Travel Week Campaign is one of the most successful initiatives promoting domestic tourism.
“Last year, over 900 tourism establishments participated, offering a range of deals that made travel more accessible. This year, we aim to surpass those numbers, and I encourage tourism businesses to sign up for their deals on the Sho’t Left deals platform,” she said.
She said the Sho’t Left Travel Week initiative not only provides a boost to the tourism sector, but also offers South Africans the chance to explore and appreciate the wonders of their own country.
She also stressed the importance of domestic tourism to the economy of the country.
“In 2023, South Africa recorded an impressive 38 million domestic trips, contributing R121 billion in spend to the economy. This surge in domestic tourism highlights the critical role that domestic travellers play in sustaining our industry.”
“Our domestic market is a powerhouse within the tourism sector. The domestic tourism’s performance underscores the significant economic impact of domestic tourism, which remains a key focus area for us as we continue to drive further improvements and encourage more South Africans to explore their own country.”
The Mercury