27-09-2016
This year’s World Tourism Day theme is ‘Tourism for All – Promoting Universal Accessibility’ and the V&A Waterfront is one of Cape Town’s most accessible attractions with a number of entertaining activities available for people with various abilities - which undoubtedly contributed to the attraction’s reputation as one of South Africa’s most visited.
For decades World Tourism Day has tried to alert the public of the importance of tourism and its social, cultural, political and economic impact. This year’s theme is about creating environments, products and services that can cater for the needs of both visitors and locals with different abilities.
Everyone has the right to access leisure and tourism services, yet according to the United Nations 1 billion people around the world with accessibility requirements still face obstacles when travelling such as clear and reliable information, efficient transportation and public services, and a physical environment that is easy to navigate.
“We are very happy to see the leading role of Wesgro, a much valued UNWTO Affiliate Member, in championing the value of tourism in the province and beyond.
The future of tourism lies in the youth. By taking 30 youth from a local school to the V&A Waterfront, South Africa's world-class, most visited tourism destination, to celebrate World Tourism Day.
Wesgro is showing us that tourism is indeed for all - giving these children a wonderful day out, and inspiring them to see the value of tourism and the joy it can bring everyone.”, said UNWTO Secretary-General, Taleb Rifai. Earlier today Western Cape Economic Opportunities Minister, Alan Winde, stated, “The Western Cape is one of the world’s leading travel destinations, so we know our product is in demand. It’s also important that all visitors and residents are able to explore our province, and that’s why we support the theme for this year’s World Tourism Day. I’m encouraged that our landmark tourism attractions, the V&A Waterfront, is setting the right example in this regard.”
Wesgro is particularly passionate about universal access and according to the Agency’s Tourism Chief Marketing Officer, Judy Lain, “Universal Access’ continued pursuit and wider implementation will benefit people with disabilities, senior citizens, families travelling with small children, and inevitably all citizens.
It is also a shared responsibility of all tourism stakeholders and a business opportunity for companies and destinations, and we call on those in the Cape to support this noble endeavour.”
Media Enquiries:
Colin Wardle
Wesgro Media Relations Officer
073 326 0834