A new tourism campaign aimed at showcasing the diverse cultures of the Western Cape has been launched.
Wesgro, the official tourism, trade, and investment promotion agency for the Western Cape launched the ‘With Love from the Locals’ campaign earlier this month to showcase the diverse attractions and hidden gems of the region to fellow South Africans.
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Among other locals, the series features Faeeza Abrahams, known for her role in Netflix’s ‘Somebody Feed Phil’. Abrahams provides a window into everyday life in Bo-Kaap.
‘We place immense value on our domestic audience, who remain our largest tourism source market and our biggest support throughout the year,’ says Wesgro CEO, Wrenelle Stander.
‘The previous financial year (2022) culminated in 3.4 million domestic trips to the Cape, with domestic spend reaching R12.7 billion – nearly double the value attained in 2019. We remain confident that our numbers will continue on an upward trajectory, with the return of old friends as well as welcoming new visitors. The Western Cape welcomes you.’
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Winemaker and owner of her own label and farm Carmen Stevens makes an appearance in the series to represent the Cape Winelands. Another feature is Luthu, the Hermanus Whale Cryer, as well as Tannie Poppie from the Cape Karoo to share her stories of her famous roosterkoek and other cultural treasures from the Karoo region.
Nunke Kadhimo from !Khwa ttu in the West Coast unveils the area’s history and language, while Eugene Lewis from Knysna (a local artist and thrill seeker) and ocean adventurer Jero Revett provide some inside on art and adventure.
‘We’ve showcased international travellers to attract their fellow countrymen with previous international campaigns like the ‘Neverending Tourist’, and now it’s time to turn the camera even closer to home,’ says Chief Marketing and Innovation Officer, Jean Scheltema.
‘With Love from the Locals tells the rich stories of the Western Cape through the lens of those who know it best. First-hand accounts by influential locals who may not necessarily be on travel feeds and in traditional itineraries make this a truly special, documentary-style series.’
Western Cape Minister of Finance and Economic Opportunities, Mireille Wenger, says the campaign is ‘perfectly timed’ with the school holidays. ‘Every visitor to our province is precious because more tourists mean more jobs.
‘Our domestic market is especially important as they sustain the sector throughout the year, not just over the peak season. The Western Cape is an incredible place to visit, with something for everyone.
‘Our domestic tourists from across South Africa as well as our own locals really are spoilt for choice because we have something for everyone, no matter what you are looking for. This campaign shines a spotlight on the many diverse, vibrant and rich offerings we have.
‘So, South Africans and those who call the Western Cape home, what are you waiting for? It’s time to get out and explore, With love from the Locals.’
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Picture: Sebastian Staines / Unsplash