SA Tourism Educated Indian Trade about Destination SA
Mumbai: The Learn South Africa programme, a South African Tourism initiative in India, has sparked tremendous interest amongst the travel fraternity there. The unique programme exclusively designed to train Indian travel agents, has received an overwhelming response from across the length and breadth of that country.
The first to initiate this unique programme in the market, Medha Sampat, Country Manager – India, South African Tourism says: “We are extremely delighted to introduce the Learn South Africa programme in India.”
More than 700 travel agents from different parts of the country have registered for the day-long sessions that are aimed at highlighting various aspects of South Africa, from history & cultural heritage, culinary delights, world-class wines, award-winning wildlife game reserves, stunning city attractions and outstanding tourism offerings among others.
“We have received tremendous response for the workshops from our Indian trade partners. Training sessions such as these give us an opportunity to build new contacts in the travel industry, strengthen existing ones and also tap smaller markets to widen our footprint across the country. South Africa is everyone’s dream destination – those that have visited keep coming back for more, whilst others aspire to get there,” Sampat says.
“With more friends in the travel industry, we are confident to meet this growing demand.”
The Learn South Africa workshops give an opportunity to travel professionals to add onto their product understanding. Moreover, the workshops enhance their knowledge about all that destination South Africa offers. This assists Indian trade with planning, endorsing and packaging custom holidays.
The most fascinating part of the programme has been the use of audio-video tools by specially trained staff. To propel interest levels of participants, interactive methods of communication like Q&A sessions, trivia and worksheets have been incorporated to help get better knowledge and understanding about South Africa as a destination and its varied tourist attractions.
The first phase of the training session is being held in 12 Indian cities. Due to a huge response from the agents, South African Tourism had to announce additional sessions in all the 12 cities. Additional sessions will be held in September this year.
By Muzi Mohale: www.travelwires.com July 15, 2010
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