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SOUTH
AFRICA'S TOURISM INDUSTRY SET TO SCORE BIG TIME
WITH SUCCESSFUL BID FOR 2010 SOCCER WORLD
CUP "What better
news could our industry have asked for to cement
the successes we have achieved and are indeed
celebrating during this historic year as we
celebrate 10 Years of Freedom?" she added. "The
future of our growing industry could not have had a
better boost." Tourism has
been identified as one of the South Africa's top
five leading growth industries for its ability to
contribute towards the eradication of poverty, and
closing the gap between rich and poor through the
sharing of an expanding tourism cake. The huge
influx of international media and spectators that
will be drawn to South Africa for the 2010 event
&endash; as well as those visiting and scouting out
the country in the years running up to the World
Cup itself - will add significant momentum in
contributing to increased GDP growth and job
creation. An ebullient
Carolus added: "FIFA's decision is indisputable
proof that South Africa has now received the
ultimate stamp of approval for its ability as a
preferred, world-class global destination to
successfully host major events. The country has
shown without a shadow of a doubt that it has the
ability and maturity - in possessing the
sophisticated, world-class infrastructure and
technology and quality tourism products - to
facilitate and exceed beyond expectations in
hosting such an international gathering of diverse
cultures pursuing one single passion." Over the
past few years, the country has fast gained an
enviable reputation for hosting, without incident,
a number of high profile international events that
have attracted hundreds of thousands of people,
from Royalty and leading Heads of State to business
delegates and sports fans. This
reputation was substantially heightened by the
hosting in Johannesburg of the World Summit on
Sustainable Development &endash; one of the largest
UN events of its kind, and arguably one of the most
significant global gatherings of the 21st century.
This was followed by the 8th ICC Cricket World, the
largest and longest-ever competition in the history
of the event, held over a six-week period with
matches played in centres countrywide. The country,
with its wealth of diverse cultural attractions,
scenic beauty and wildlife, is now recognised as
one of the world's fastest growing tourist
destinations. "As we
proudly celebrate this momentous decision with our
SADC (Southern African Development Community)
neighbours, we are committed to delivering a
world-class tourism and hospitality experience
second to none to the thousands of people who will
be attracted to our beautiful shores for the
duration of the 2010 Soccer World Cup. At the same
time, however, we will work to ensure that the
economic benefits derived from tourism are also
spread throughout our region," stated
Carolus. To learn
about South African packages available from TOPAC
members visit
<http://www.topac.org/>www.topac.org, call
1-866-57-TOPAC or contact one of the TOPAC members
directly. TOPAC members include: Africa Experts by
Goway, G.A.P Adventures, Lion World Tours,
Reservations Africa, Tourcan Vacations, Travel
Studio, Trek Holidays and Wild Africa
Safaris. Contact:
Jeff Lanthier DBA
Communications 416.591.7783
ext 112 |
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