It’s all happening at SW Africa
What we’ve been up to…
We’ve had an exciting month at SW Africa attending various industry events that have given us a glimpse of the latest developments in hospitality, networking opportunities, and wellness innovations. Here’s a roundup:
Radisson Blu Waterfront refurbishment preview: We were invited to see the transformation taking place at this iconic oceanfront hotel. With newly designed rooms that bring a fresh, modern feel inspired by a minimalist, Scandinavian aesthetic, the clean lines and earthy tones evoke a sense of calm and sophistication. The use of sustainable materials and energy-saving technologies is also a key focus, aligning with the hotel chain’s commitment to reducing its environmental footprint.
Marriott National Sales Workshop 2024: Held at the Protea by Marriott Cape Town Breakwater Lodge, this was an incredible opportunity to network with other industry professionals and learn about the latest additions to the Marriott hotel portfolio. From luxury urban escapes to nature-inspired lodges, Marriotts diverse offerings ensure theres something for every type of traveller.
Travelpeople Wellness & Winelands Connection at Hazendal Wine Estate: This event highlighted the growing trend of combining wellness with the rich experiences of the Cape Winelands. Wellness travel is increasingly popular, and this connection perfectly combines relaxation, mindfulness, and luxury in one of the most scenic regions of South Africa. From vineyard yoga sessions, guided mindfulness walks, and wellness-focused cuisine, the Winelands present an opportunity to recharge and reconnect with nature. The serene surroundings of the wine estates provide the perfect backdrop for team-building or incentive retreats, leaving a lasting impact on both mind and body.
We hope these insights into the latest trends and experiences will inspire your next group or incentive trip!
Business travellers soar to new heights
Flying for business has become easier in Africa thanks to Airlink. Southern Africa’s leading regional airline has meticulously tailored its offerings to meet the needs of business travellers, its most profitable customer base. Available on selected domestic and regional E-jet flights, the airline’s business-class service offers a premium intra-continental experience. Passengers benefit from complimentary catering, a selection of beverages, additional baggage allowance, priority boarding, and access to airport lounges at select locations.
The business-class cabins are designed for comfort, featuring large eye-level windows, spacious seats with extra legroom, and a generous two-plus-one seating layout, ensuring no middle seat. Overhead storage provides ample space for carry-on luggage. Travellers are entitled to an all-inclusive 30kg baggage allowance, with an extra 15kg for sporting equipment. Additionally, they can take advantage of dedicated business-class check-in counters at major airports, streamlining the travel experience.
Luxury travel on the rise
The luxury travel sector is experiencing a remarkable surge, with operators across Southern and East Africa capitalising on the growing demand for transformative journeys from lucrative outbound markets worldwide. The market in Southern Africa, in particular, has not only rebounded but is expected to surpass 2019 levels by the end of 2024.
New research from Virtuoso, a leading global network of luxury travel agencies with 20,000 travel professionals across 58 countries, highlights this insatiable appetite for high-end experiences. The research revealed an 18% increase in sales during the first half of 2024 compared to the same period in 2023. Overall sales were up by a whopping 211% compared to the first half of 2019, showcasing the robust recovery of the luxury market.
Driving this growth is the increasing demand for bespoke, personalised travel experiences. Affluent travellers are no longer content with standard holidays; instead, they seek unique, immersive, and authentic adventures that offer meaningful and transformative experiences. This shift towards tailored luxury highlights a new trend in the market, where travellers prioritise memorable, life-changing journeys.
Talk to us today about a luxurious African safari.
Victoria Falls reigns supreme
One of the world’s most spectacular natural wonders, attracting visitors with its breathtaking beauty and dramatic scale, the Victoria Falls are an African icon. And the town named for them in Zimbabwe has become one of Africa’s leading adventure hubs. Known locally as Mosi-oa-Tunya, or “The Smoke That Thunders,” the falls span over 1,7km and plunge 108m into the Zambezi River, creating a thunderous roar and an awe-inspiring mist that’s visible from a great distance.
Beyond the falls, tourists can explore the surrounding Victoria Falls National Park, home to diverse wildlife and stunning landscapes. Adventure-seekers are drawn to activities like bungee jumping, white-water rafting, and helicopter flights offering panoramic views of the falls and the Zambezi Gorge. For a more tranquil experience, sunset river cruises provide an opportunity to witness the area’s stunning scenery and abundant birdlife. Victoria Falls town offers a range of accommodation, from luxury lodges to budget-friendly options, making it a prime destination for both relaxation and adventure in the heart of Africa. So, chat to us about including this destination in your next itinerary. In the meantime, check out these great tour options.