Other recent initiatives include a logo designed by the Japanese Association of Travel Agents (Jata), to be used by Jata-affiliated agents on their brochures in support of South Africa as a 'must-do' destination.

Hurdles in selling SA still remain, including the perception that the country is an expensive destination for Japanese travellers. Brouwer says this hurdle could be overcome by adding value for Japanese visitors.

He points out that currently, Egypt is SA's biggest competitor when it comes to attracting Japanese tourists. He discovered that this was due to small value-adds and services provided by Egyptian properties. “All the hotels and lodges offer complimentary sliced fruit and a litre of still water in the room on arrival,” says Brouwer. “Most international adaptors do not cater for the Japanese, so Egyptian properties placed Japanese adaptors in the rooms and public areas,” he adds.

Safety and security, air capacity, airfares and the lack of direct flights also remain as key obstacles in attracting Japanese tourists.

Monday, October 01, 2007