WTM Africa 2015 opens tomorrow

The spotlight is on the continent as international exhibitors, buyers and visitors descend on Cape Town to create valuable partnerships and negotiate successful business deals which will contribute to the impact the industry has on the African economy. The City of Cape Town's Executive Mayor, Patricia de Lille, and Deputy Minister of Tourism, Tokozile Xasa, will be opening the exhibition tomorrow at 10:00 at the CTICC.

WTM Africa brings to the table, a diverse array of premium exhibitors, associations and tourism authorities this year. One of the key tourism authorities exhibiting at this year's show is Abu Dhabi Tourism & Culture Authority. The Authority conserves and promotes the heritage and culture of Abu Dhabi emirate. They manage the emirate's tourism sector and markets the destination internationally through a wide range of activities aimed at attracting visitors and investment.

International platform

"WTM Africa 2015 is the first time destination Abu Dhabi and its key partners will be showcased prominently to the South African and African travel industry with exhibitors such as Etihad Airways and Oryx Tourism participating on the TCA Abu Dhabi stand," comments Tracey Krog, Country Manager, South Africa - Abu Dhabi Tourism and Culture Authority.

Included in WTM Africa's diverse array of exhibitors is Namibia Tourism. Area Manager for the destination, Cristina Cicognani, is looking forward to showcasing the country along with 20 Namibian Tourism suppliers.

"WTM Africa has created a wonderful international platform for our Namibia Tourism Suppliers to showcase their tourist related products. 2015 marks the year in which Namibia celebrates its Silver Jubilee, 25 years of successful and fruitful years of a peaceful independence. Namibia Tourism Board is always proud to support their businesses in South Africa and to the International Tourist Trade, and this year the destination has been successful in expanding its representation at WTM Africa," comments Cicognani.

Innovative approach

In true sustainable style, Hotel Verde, one of this year's prominent exhibitors, will be encouraging visitors and guests alike, to vote with their feet and their taste buds. "We at Africa's Greenest Hotel, like a challenge and thus, during the WTM Africa, Team Verde will be introducing the "Smoothie-Bike" to promote the principles of Responsible Tourism, in a fun and interactive manner" says Samantha Annandale, General Manager of Hotel Verde.

The "Smoothie-Bike" is a carbon neutral experience, promoting healthy lifestyle in a sustainable manner, combined with a delicious reward every time. The stationary, pedal-powered bicycle is fitted with a special blender that mixes a delectable tasty, fresh-fruit smoothie, in an instant. No electricity needed or used in the process.

Charitible causes

WTM Africa 2015's official charity, The Tourism Child Protection Code of Conduct (The Code), together with leading South African tourism industry stakeholders will signal their game-changing approach to protecting children from the worst forms of exploitation. The Code is an industry-driven, multi-stakeholder initiative with the mission to provide awareness, tools and support to the tourism industry in order to combat the sexual exploitation of children in contexts related to travel and tourism.

The South African National Biodiversity institute (SANBI) is one of WTM Africa's event partners this year. The institution develops and manages the National Botanical gardens in South Africa. The gardens are picture perfect havens for biodiversity and are situated in different parts of country.

Have you preregistered to attend WTM® Africa 2015 yet? If not, today's your last chance. Register at www.wtmafrica.com

WTM Africa forms part of Africa Travel Week which comprises of three co-located industry events namely International Luxury Travel Market (ILTM) Africa, International Business Travel Market (IBTM) and Word Travel Market (WTM) Africa.

For more, go to www.wtmafrica.com