Take Time Out in Jozi

Following Time Out UK's recent decision to award local publishers New Media the contract for a soft cover Time Out City Guide for Cape Town, and the phenomenal success of the annual Time Out Cape Town Visitors' Guide, a Time Out Johannesburg Guide was the obvious next step.

To date, the Time Out Cape Town Visitors' Guide, which was launched in December 2003, boasts an 83% sell-out rate having sold 15 000 copies after its first three months on shelf.

New Media managing director, Bridget McCarney, says there is no denying the growing popularity of the region. "According to the Gauteng Tourism Authority, international visitors to the area are expected to increase 11%, year on year by 2005 and domestic visitors by 3%, year on year by 2005.

"As visitors continue to flock to South Africa, we believe there is a distinct call from the international (and local) market for a comprehensive guide to one of Africa's greatest cities. Close to half (43%) of Gauteng's international visitors are from Europe and the UK where Time Out is already a recognised, established and trusted brand. The Time Out Johannesburg Guide will therefore serve as a leading source of tourist and entertainment information."

Published in magazine format, the guide will cover sightseeing, accommodation, cultural precincts, theatre, clubs and shopping.
Loved by international travellers for its independent editorial commentary, Sam Woulidge, editor of the new guide, says that the Time Out Johannesburg Guide will be written in an edgy and honest style covering the multicultural vibrant energy of South Africa's very own 'Place of Gold'.

"Our team of contributors aims to capture the vibrant metropolis of Newtown, through to the boutique-lined streets of Sandton. The guide will also incorporate information on Pretoria and trips from Johannesburg to the Kruger National Park, Free State, Magaliesberg and Sun City," says Woulidge.

Terry Tselane, CEO of the Gauteng Tourism Authority, says the Time Out Johannesburg Guide is long overdue and will help promote Johannesburg before visitors even get here. "Johannesburg's wealth is not only in its gold, but in its people. Our unique cultural and social legacy is evidenced in our many excellent museums, theatres, galleries, cultural precincts and craft markets. We have a rhythm, movement and style of our own and the guide will help us share this with the rest of South Africa and overseas visitors."

The first print run for the annual Time Out Johannesburg Guide will be 20 000 and the guide will be available in October at all traditional outlets, such as airport departure centres, as well as selected hotels, delis, wine shops and tourism offices. The guide will cost R29.95.