Tourists continue to visit South Africa following World Cup
Although the World Cup ended last month, the redevelopment and changes imposed on South Africa will be long lasting. But has the hype and attraction, which surrounded the world famous event, trickled down and increased the tourism in South Africa? Pure Holiday Homes says yes.
Throughout the last six months, Pure Holiday Homes reports that enquiries for rental homes in South Africa have been growing steadily, with a 16% rise in interest in the country in July (immediately following the World Cup) when compared with June, and the figure is set to grow yet further moving into August.
Nine out of ten foreigners visiting South Africa for the World Cup say that they would recommend South Africa as a holiday destination, according to African Response’s World Cup Visitor Survey. The success of the tournament, infrastructure and improved travel communication systems, have all benefitted towards tourism and foreign investment.
One of the most famous cities and the location of Green Point Stadium, used for numerous games throughout the Worlds Cup, is Cape Town. The tourist hot spot also boasts the largest selection South African rental properties represented on Pure Holiday Homes. With properties such as the stunning Villa Yukka, with direct access to Camps Bay Beach (property ref: 6794), it is no wonder it is one of the world’s most famous cities for tourism.
The World Cup has promoted South Africa’s beautiful landscape and fascinating culture, throughout the month long event. Whether you are a football fan or not, the diverse ‘rainbow nation’ offers something for every holiday maker, winter sun, spectacular scenery and beautiful beaches. From luxury beach houses to rural cottages, the country offers you not only comfortable, beautiful properties, but also a colourful and exciting culture for you to explore.
Another hugely popular reason to visit South Africa is the wildlife. About.com reports that the Kruger National Park is the third most popular destination in the whole of Africa for safari holidays. Pure Holiday Homes offers properties such as the stunning Phumula Kruger Lodge (property ref: 16459), which borders the National Park.
Joint CEO of Pure Holiday Homes, Sean Collins, expresses, “Even though the World Cup is unlikely to give the country an immediate boost to the economy, there will be long lasting effects and increases to the tourism rate, due to the massive exposure the country has had over the last few months. The World Cup was never seen to be a short term benefit to tourism, but a tool to change its perception from expensive and crime-ridden. However the country is set to benefit substantially as the visitors over the World Cup ‘spread the word’ and market the country.”
Tourism Minister Marthinus van Schalkwyk has said that the World Cup will leave a tangible and lasting legacy in South Africa. The country is also planning on spending R188 million on a marketing drive for the rest of the financial year to make sure millions of the football fans who visited during the World Cup become regular visitors.
Pure Holiday Homes is a new holiday rental portal offering unique self-catering properties within the UK and abroad for holiday makers seeking great value, flexibility and a large variety of holiday options. Pure Holiday Homes presents properties in 56 different countries, with thousands of properties in destinations such as France, New Zealand, the Caribbean and Spain. The website offers user-friendly, effective and quick ways to book and search the ideal holiday home. There are no hidden costs or fees as holidaymakers deal direct with the property owners.
Pure Holiday Homes currently has a catalogue of over 12,000 homes which is expected to grow to 30,000 properties by the end of 2010. The website is perfect not only for holiday makers to find that perfect holiday rental, but is also a cost-effective way for homeowners to market their properties, for a modest £150 subscription. This competitive listing price is approximately half of that of most, more established companies in this sector.
For more information please visit: pureholidayhomes.com