#SharetheBay: Nelson Mandela Bay Tourism launches revamped travel app

Upgrades on the Nelson Mandela Bay Travel Guide app include an updated user interface, improved functionality and new information. Key information available on the app includes upcoming events, things to see and do, accommodation, transport, business and emergency contacts, and free wifi spots in the city. It also comes with a pinpoint mapping system, navigating the user to the highlighted destination.

"As a destination marketing company, it's our objective to bring visitors here. Now while the app may not be the perfect tool for that, it is the perfect tool for when they're here and in the city, and want to find out what it is that they can do, where the attractions are located, and how to contact them - all of that in their pockets," explained Erenei Louw, coordinator for IT, e-marketing and research at Nelson Mandela Bay Tourism.

"In the past we've had the visitors guides, which are still relevant for the folks that don't use smartphones, but with technology changing and with GPS built into your smartphones, it's become more useful to use an app. With the whole redevelopment of the app, we've taken control of the messaging and themes, branding and pushing the messaging that the destination wants to portray."

The app has the potential to boost the local economy, exposing and referring users to locally owned businesses such as restaurants, accommodation venues and shopping facilities in Nelson Mandela Bay.

Consumer-driven assessment and evaluation

Councillor Andrew Whitfield

"It's a really easy to navigate app, and I think that also speaks volumes for the kind of city we are - we're a really easily navigable city - we're a 15-20 minute city in most directions. Most of our products are certainly within 30-45 minutes of each other and you can achieve a huge amount in Nelson Mandela Bay in one day. If this app helps people navigate the city before they get here - they've got their plans, they know where to go, they can hear the stories of the products and make an informed decision - it puts us in a really unique and innovative space, which is in line with a huge trend towards consumer-driven assessment and evaluation of experiences and products online," said portfolio chairperson for economic development, tourism & agriculture, Councillor Andrew Whitfield, keynote speaker at the launch.

The app also offers deals that aim to create loyalty with users, adding value for locals who are looking for activities in the city. Deals and special offers also benefit business owners by attracting more feet through their doors, thus stimulating the local economy.

Access the app on Google Play.