[WTM Africa] Highlights from Day 2

Adding to the success of business done on the second day, was the engaging content that came out of the exciting events programme. Key issues and trends within the industry were presented and discussed via interactive networking sessions and panel discussions such as the Responsible Tourism Speed Networking Session, the ASATA Western Cape Chapter Meeting and Young Professional in Travel Networking Session, Rhino Art's presentation highlighting the rhino crisis and Wendy van der Byl's presentation on the SADC Univisa between Zambia, Zimbabwe, Namibia and Angola.

Also included in the day's line-up was Keith Jenkins, CEO of iambassador's and Velvet Escape, panel discussion on best practice from both blogger and industry perspective. "I came to WTM Africa first and foremost to discuss the relationship between blogging and industry in terms of best practice, with a keen focus on professionalism within the blogging industry. I also wanted to assist in educating the industry on the value bloggers provide tourism on an international platform. WTM Africa was very well received with a huge interest in Social Media in terms of destination marketing," comments Jenkins.

According to journalist, Sharon Gilbert-Rivert, who was in attendance, says, "This show is an absolute must for discerning tourism businesses looking to connect with equally discerning members of the travel media. This is where the real business of tourism takes place.

At the forefront of responsible and sustainable tourism in South Africa and Africa is Hotel Verde. The Hotel is extremely happy with the success they have found at the showcase since it began yesterday. "We came with large expectations for this year's WTM Africa which have been more than exceeded. The quality of the hosted buyers and buyers' club have proved to be extremely impressive, providing us with a lot of potential business. There has been so much interest in what we do and in sustainability and responsible tourism in general which is wonderful to see."

Some exhibitors have already seen the value in exhibiting at WTM Africa and look forward to returning in 2016. Miriam Seriani, the Reservations Manager at BlueBay Beach Resort, Zanzibar says, "I've enjoyed it a lot. I already have three confirmed bookings and one large group booking of 50. We will definitely be coming back next year as it has been such a big success!"

Lesotho's Tourism has found the show to be extremely successful for the destination thus far. "The World Travel Market is the premier exhibition for destinations on the continent. As the only African destination to boast the highest abseil in the world and the only premium skiing resort in Africa, we are proud to offer our unique experience to tourism professionals across the African continent. For those wanting to offer their clients the ultimate experience Lesotho presents a compelling value proposition."

African Responsible Tourism Awards

A big highlight for WTM Africa was the African Responsible Tourism Awards. The heroes of responsible tourism in Africa were honoured at the inaugural African Responsible Tourism Awards Ceremony, sponsored by Wesgro, at WTM Africa.

The winners for 2015 are: