The theme of universal accessibility was linked to the national campaign of #TourismForAll, a South African Tourism initiative geared towards enabling all South Africans, to enjoy travel opportunities in their own country. Universal accessibility is not only about the need to ensure that establishments can accommodate persons with disabilities but it also considers socio-economic factors. This basically comes down to how those who are hindered in some way shouldn’t disregard travel in any way, be it a disability, age or budget, everybody deserves to explore this beautiful country or any country around the world.
As South African Tourism would suggest, Universal Accessibility encourages a change in the thought processes behind travel, the realisation that everyone deserves the opportunity to travel and explore.
Hlatshwayo’s travels took her to over 60 caravan and camping parks across the country, a mode of travel she never considered before, where she discovered that caravan camping can be used as a tool to unite South Africans.
“I learned many things during this journey. Most importantly was how close a camping community can be and how people look out for one another. This was a life-changing and enriching experience for me and my family.”
“In a caravan park, there is no sense of fear, no walls, and all security features. There is a sense of belonging, connectivity with your inner self and, of course, the liberation nature has to offer.” The therapeutic nature of camping discovered by Hlatshwayo was that when she started this trip she was diagnosed with excessive 'burnout' - a condition that has become prevalent in this country due to work pressure, among other things. While on the trip she found fulfillment and healing.
She appealed to the Ministry of Tourism specifically to do more in promoting such camping adventures which can also be a job creation tool.
Caravan camping is one of the most affordable forms with which to enjoy a holiday or short break. “Camping is very cheap and gives one access to all the hotspot holiday destinations in South Africa. Many people do not know that there are campsites in Kruger National Park where a couple pays R250 a night for a campsite. Now, this is worth it! Money that is saved from accommodation can then be used for activities to entertain loved ones.”
Another partnership initiative undertaken by South African Tourism is Gogo’s on Tour, specifically designed to provide elderly people the opportunity to travel to local destinations and enjoy the beauty of South Africa, its people, and vibrant culture.
Furthermore, the partnership will help improve the livelihood of approximately 1,000 senior citizens from all nine provinces, from October 2016 until the end of March 2017. This further enforces South African Tourism’s vision to create an accessible tourism environment in South Africa, and subsequently contribute to the economic development of the country.
Founded firmly on the basis of universal accessibility in the tourism space, part of SA Tourism’s efforts include introducing senior citizens of South Africa, who were previously not exposed to travel, to start travelling around their own country. Unique leisure activities were planned in the program to suit their age and interests with the aim of demonstrating the ease of travel for leisure short breaks around South Africa.
