Opportunities of responsible tourism in South Africa

Industry update on the benefits and opportunities of responsible tourism

“It is now beyond question that as an industry we have to reduce our footprint – for our sakes, for the people we work with, for communities and, most importantly, for future generations. Collectively, individually we have to change.

We must encourage operators to offer more thoughtful and caring holiday experiences, provide better
quality of life for all children and their families and protect the environment.

We need to demonstrate that we are no longer just talking about responsible tourism, but taking clear,
transparent action.”

Fiona Jeffery, Chairman, World Travel Market

Cape Town Tourism, FEDHASA Cape, SAACI and SATSA Western Cape joined forces in 2007 to bring members of all four organizations quality speakers, exciting visuals, the latest information and a platform to air your trade specific questions, concerns and ideas.

Join us for the third meeting of this partnership termed Joint Association Members Meeting Sessions (JAMMS) to learn how to practically implement responsible tourism.

Date:               Thursday, 31 July 2008
Time:              14h30 for 15h00. Meeting closes at 17h00. Stay after for a cash bar & snacks.
Venue:            The Rotunda at the Bay Hotel, 69 Victoria Road, Camps Bay.
Cost:               There is no cost for members of the four organisations.
Directions:     For further information visit www.thebay.co.za or call 021 430 4444.
Parking:          Parking behind the Rotunda accessible from The Drive.
Note:               Limited seats available so book now.

Please RSVP to Shanaaz Casper at FEDHASA Cape on fedhasacape@fedhasa.co.za or fax 021 552 3466. Include your company name and the first & last names of all attending and contact details.
A maximum of 3 people per company. The deadline date is noon on Monday, 28 July 2008.

This meeting is organized in partnership with the City of Cape Town.

Topics under the spotlight:

Update on international best practise - a summary of how leading responsible tourism destinations and businesses are attracting travelers and activating responsible tourism practises. Hot off the press information from Kerala, India where the second International Responsible Tourism Conference was held earlier this year.
Lessons learned from responsible tourism businesses – a practical discussion by tourism businesses who have successfully implemented responsible business practices.
Practical tips on using resources wisely– a booklet and practical tips on how to make a difference with energy, water, waste and our biodiverse environment.

We look forward to a full and valuable information session and an opportunity to network with key tourism businesses.

Kind Regards,

Mariëtte du Toit-Helmbold
CEO, Cape Town Tourism