The International Air Transport Association (IATA) has released its latest data on global passenger demand, painting a positive picture for the aviation industry. Demand Soars: Passenger demand, measured in revenue passenger kilometres (RPKs), surged by 13.8% in March 2024 compared to the same month in 2023. This growth outpaced the 12.3% increase in total capacity (available seat kilometres, ASKs), resulting in a healthier load factor of 82%, a one percentage point improvement year-on-year. International Travel Leads the Charge: International travel saw the most significant rise, with demand ..read more

Experience the pinnacle of luxury as Hyatt unveils its first vibrant and exclusive hotel in Zimbabwe today, marking a historic moment in Harare. Today marks the grand opening of Zimbabwe’s first Hyatt hotel, as Hyatt Hotels Corporation unveils the Hyatt Regency Harare The Meikles. This premier five-star establishment is set to redefine hospitality in Zimbabwe by blending the local charm with the renowned service quality of the Hyatt Regency brand. Guests are welcomed to enjoy modern accommodations, a variety of dining options, and extensive amenities designed for an extraordinary stay. Nestle ..read more

Titled ‘Redefining Hospitality: Trends, Technologies, and Opportunities’, this year’s Hotel and Hospitality Expo Africa will focus on transformative action and the innovations, conversations and changes needed to redefine hospitality on the continent. The expo will be held at Johannesburg’s Sandton Convention Centre from June 11-13. “The event provides thought leaders with the opportunity to unpack core challenges and concerns facing the sector today,” says Margaret Peters, Event Manager: Food & Hospitality at dmg events. “Can sustainability and luxury co-exist? How can timeless, authent ..read more

When the COVID-19 pandemic shut down international travel and visits to Zimbabwe’s iconic Hwange National Park plummeted, IFAW had a grave concern: Would fewer people moving through the park make it easier for poachers to escape undetected? And, without the income that tourism brings local communities, would poaching seem more appealing? Resting lions, Photo: Jürgen Bierlein Hwange—home to more than 45,000 elephants, 150 other mammal species, and 400 bird species—is a crucial area for wildlife and a key anchor to the Kavango-Zambezi Trans-Frontier Conservation Area. That’s why it’s a vital par ..read more

Photo: Nyamazi Greenoffers tent accommodation Nyanga, Zimbabwe, April 29, 2024 – Nyamazi Greens, a picturesque 40-acre campsite nestled in the lush Msasa and pine woodlands of Nyanga, is thrilled to announce the inaugural Nyamazi Bush Festival, set to take place from August 10th to 12th, 2024. Similar to the world renowned Vic Falls Carnival in Victoria Falls in its offering, this exciting event promises an unforgettable experience combining live music, DJ performances across various genres, exhilarating outdoor activities, a diverse food market, and full bar facilities, all amidst the stunnin ..read more

Cape Town, 24 April 2024 – World Travel Market Africa (WTM Africa) wrapped up its 2024 edition with record-breaking numbers, demonstrating a significant surge in global interest towards African travel and tourism. This year saw a 40% jump in buyers compared to 2023, solidifying the event’s status as the continent’s leading travel trade show. WTM Africa 2024 hosted 705 exhibitors and 5,752 industry professionals from 99 countries. The buyer attendance was notably diverse, featuring strong representation from emerging markets like Greece, Philippines, Switzerland, Singapore, Lithuania, New Zeal ..read more

Cape Town, 15 April 2024 – The winners of the prestigious World Travel Market Africa (WTMA) Responsible Tourism Awards were announced at Africa Travel Week 2024 in Cape Town. Bangu Masisi of Transfrontier Parks Destinations revealed the honorees, celebrating businesses and initiatives that are making a positive impact through responsible tourism practices. “These awards are integral to WTM Africa’s responsible tourism programme, and spotlighting those that have truly made a difference is important for the encouragement of others to do the same,” said Masisi. Alderman James Vos opened the award ..read more

Speaking at the World Travel Market (WTM) Africa conference, tourism expert Marcus Lee emphasised the immense potential of the Chinese travel market and outlined strategies for African destinations to better attract these lucrative tourists. According to Lee, who is the CEO of China Travel Online, China is projected to see 130 million outbound travellers in 2024, more than double the volume of 2023. “China is back as the world’s largest outbound source market,” said Lee. “We were in lockdown for three years, but now we are poised to lead the global tourism recovery.” Lee noted that China was t ..read more

The untapped potential of inclusive tourism to drive the growth of Africa’s travel industry was in focus at this year’s Africa Travel Week 2024 part of WTM Africa. A diverse panel of advocates, experts, and tourism suppliers engaged in a discussion, highlighting the significant economic benefits that travellers with disabilities can bring to the continent. Inclusive travel is a billion-dollar industry that Africa can tap into, and the panellists emphasised the unique spending patterns of this market segment. Travellers with disabilities often spend more, travel with companions, and stay for lo ..read more

World Travel Market Africa 2024 opened with a dynamic Responsible Tourism session, hosted by Responsible Tourism Advisor Harold Goodwin.   Three of the five African winners from the 2023 WTM Responsible Tourism Awards were in attendance to share their inspiring stories and demonstrate the exceptional work being done in sustainable tourism across the continent.   The WTM Responsible Tourism Awards are held during Africa Travel Week and recognise excellence in sustainable tourism practices globally. They have become increasingly important in driving the industry towards a more eth ..read more