During the height of the Cape Town Water Crisis, many expressed concern regarding the effect of the drought on the city’s tourism industry – particularly that of the hotel industry.

Data from the 2018 African Hotel Valuation Index shows that the values of hotel rooms actually increased during the water crisis. These values shot up by 25% despite our dams nearly being dry.

Hotels in South Africa, and Africa as a whole, have proven to rapidly evolve and can be attributed to the economic growth, political stability and economic growth of several countries on the continent.

Speaking to IOL, Tim Smith, Managing Partner at global hospitality consultancy firm HVS, said that Cape Town International Airport also experienced a 10% increase in international traveller numbers between January and March 2018.

“Cape Town’s recovery in the coming years is expected because of a stronger economy, the recent announcement that there would be no ‘Day Zero’ for 2019 if water restrictions are adhered to and an anticipated faster growth in foreign and domestic tourism,” Smith said.

He also added that the support of local travellers play an integral role in the hotel industry, and that hoteliers must start maximising markets that are closer to home and are more appealing to locals.

“The ability to better cater to local guests is becoming increasingly important for hotel brands and independent operators across the African continent, with menus, language and culture all being key to welcoming more African guests,” Smith said.

“Increase in regional tourism – both business and leisure – improving air connectivity across the continent, evolution in politics, increased room night demand and domestic consumption are all positive steps in the right direction for the fast-developing continent,” said Smith.

This is the fifth edition of the HVI, which has analyised the hotels of 26 markets that operate across 19 African countries. The Index surveyed more than 75 000 existing and 11 500 proposed rooms in the upper mid-market.

Picture: Unsplash

Article written by

Lucinda is a hard news writer who occasionally dabbles in lifestyle writing, and recent journalism graduate. She is a proud intersectional feminist, and is passionate about actively creating a world which is free of discrimination and inequality.