5 hacks to help you attract travellers to your tourism business this Easter

WHEN it comes to the Easter holidays, South Africans tend to make their way back to their hometowns to reconnect and relax with friends and family.

These hometowns have some of South Africa’s most enchanting hidden gems presenting a significant opportunity for tourism businesses to tap into the peak travel season market and wow locals with amazing offerings.

The Sho’t Left website is encouraging South Africans to explore the country and set their tables anywhere this Easter holiday and not feel restricted to their home dining tables.

So here are 5 ways it says tourism businesses can attract more local travellers this Easter holiday:

Create local packages

To attract local travellers and residents, create packages that cater specifically to them. We all know that South Africans love a good deal. Make sure the packages include discounted rates as well as unique experiences that appeal to consumers’ interests. This could be anything from hot air ballooning to a township tour, an afternoon of wine tasting, or a quad-biking adventure through the fields. Since South Africans travel with family during the Easter break, a package that includes fun activities for the kids and adults without breaking the bank is a great way to attract local visitors.

Partner with local businesses

This could include restaurants, craft markets, and other tourist attractions in the area. Work with partners that connect and have a hometown appeal for more comprehensive and attractive offerings for visitors. For example, a winery could partner with a local restaurant to offer a wine and food pairing experience.

Showcase local culture

Tourism partners can incorporate local culture into their offerings: traditional dances, music, art and visits to local cultural sites and museums.

Engage the local community

This could include hiring staff from the local area, sourcing products and services from local businesses, and supporting local charities and initiatives.

Market your packages

Make sure travellers know about your deals, discounts, and packages. Upload packages to tourism platforms (such as www.shotleft.co.za) and advertise them on social media to raise awareness. And don’t forget to engage with your potential visitors on social media, because that is the ultimate word of mouth in a digital world.