The annual travel show for South African Tourism has already surpassed its precedent participation, attracting 14 percent more visitors than 2007 with two months to go.
With a registered number of 3777 compared to 2922 in 2007, the country manager for Domestic South African Tourism, Sindile Xulu notes “while registration is still open, we already have an indication of the level of interest in the show with an increase of participants”.
International interest is evident, as media registrations have also collectively risen by 17 percent from 316 to 385 and international delegates have grown by 19 percent from 1713 to 2108.
International buyers have increased by 38 percent, and local tourism trade maintains a 26 percent increase from 2007.
These numbers are promising for South African tourism, as Xulu notes that the world’s travelers and travel trade are recognizing South Africa as a world-class, value-for-money destination.
Preparation for the 2010 FIFA World Cup is likely to be contributing to the enhanced attention at Indaba.
Operating on the 18-month buying cycle that global travel and tourism requires, Indaba will be crucial for buyers to organise hundreds of thousands of soccer fans that will enjoy the first African-based FIFA World Cup.
Indaba 2008 takes place in Kwa-Zulu Natal, from 10-13 May.
“Indaba gives local trade opportunities to market its products as well as participate in workshops and other activities on offer”, said Xulu.
She added, “We look forward to welcoming you in Durban on 10 May”.