Celebrating Freedom Day on April 27

South Africa has a rich history, which makes it such an attractive destination for travelers from around the world to visit. A very important day in South Africa’s history is 27 April, which marks Freedom Day, and commemorates the first post-apartheid elections held on that same day in 1994.

The elections were the first non-racial national elections where everyone of voting age of over 18 years from any race group, was allowed to vote. Previously, under the apartheid regime, non-white South Africans had only limited rights to vote while black South Africans had no voting rights whatsoever. This day marked the end of minority rule and ushered in the establishment of a new democratic government led by late President Nelson Mandela and a new state subject to a new constitution. There is no doubt that April 27, 1994 was a turning point in South Africa’s history and it remains a day that we are proud of.
 

Five Historic Places to Visit for Freedom Day

Are your clients interested in culture and history in their travels? If so, encourage them to take part in the celebration of South Africa’s Freedom Day by visiting these important historical sites:
 

Visit the Old Fort Museum on Constitution Hill.

Situated on Salvokop in Pretoria, in the Gauteng Province, Freedom Park is a great place to visit to learn more on South Africa’s history.

Visit the Nelson Mandela Capture Site in Howick, KwaZulu-Natal.

Learn about Nelson Mandela’s life by visiting Qunu in the Eastern Cape province.

Jazz Legend Hugh Masekela is Inducted into the Ertegun Hall of Fame

South African Tourism, in collaboration with the Hugh Masekela Heritage Foundation, celebrated the legendary jazz musician, Hugh Masekela, at an event held at Dizzy's Club at Jazz at Lincoln Center in New York City on April 17. The event honored Masekela's contributions to jazz music and his impact on South Africa as a cultural destination.

The highlight of the afternoon was the induction of Hugh Masekela into the Ertegun Hall of Fame, a prestigious recognition for his exceptional talent and remarkable achievements in the music industry. Hugh Masekela, fondly known as "Bra Hugh," was born and raised in South Africa, and is widely regarded as one of the greatest jazz musicians of all time. His unique style and fusion of African rhythms, jazz, and world music have captivated audiences around the globe for decades. Masekela's music has become a symbol of South African culture, showcasing the rich heritage and diversity of the country and inspiring travelers to experience the destination's unique offerings.

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APTA National Forum Coming to Cape Town  

The Association for the Promotion of Tourism to Africa (APTA), the largest and longest operating travel trade organization for African specialists in North America, is hosting the 2023 APTA Global Forum in Cape Town, South Africa September 26-30, 2023. This year marks the first time that APTA’s Global Forum has taken place on the African continent, and appropriately, the theme is, “Africa: Where It Begins.”

The Forum is estimated to bring together 100-125 APTA members for two days of networking and educational sessions on the latest products, services and tourism trends in Africa. The elegant Table Bay Hotel, conveniently located in the heart of the Victoria & Alfred Waterfront in Cape Town, will serve as the host hotel for the Forum.

APTA is inviting its members, along with other travel advisors in North America that are interested in joining APTA, to learn about selling Africa to profitably develop their clientele and business to the continent. Registration is open now and delegates attending the Forum will have opportunities to join pre & post educational trips through an expanded group of participating APTA tourism partners offering special familiarization rates.

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Silversea to Launch First-Ever Expeditions to South Africa

In March and April 2024, Silversea’s Silver Cloud will embark upon the first-ever expeditions to South Africa, undertaking highly curated, all-inclusive voyages that cover the entire South African coast—from the Western to the Eastern Capes.

The pioneering sailings will achieve many firsts. Among the key highlights, Silver Cloud will be the first-ever cruise ship to visit the historic Port Nolloth; guests will learn about the fascinating culture of the fishing community in Langebaan; and immersive experiences will connect guests with Cape Town. The voyages will unlock amazing wildlife experiences, including expeditions to Bird Island, home of the largest Gannet population in the world; Great White Shark experiences from Hermanus; and, from Port Elizabeth, safari excursions to search for the Big 5. The cruise line’s guests will learn about the region through tailored expedition experiences, forming meaningful connections with lesser-visited communities through cultural exchanges ashore—all the while travelling in the company of the industry’s leading expedition team.

Learn more about these exciting, once-in-a-life-time expeditions
 

Spotlight on Markets: Prison Break Market in Johannesburg

If you’ve visited South Africa, you probably already know that we have so much to offer in terms of city markets. These are a fun, casual way to grab a delicious meal, check out fresh fruit and vegetables, coffee, drinks, art, clothing and other crafts…there’s pretty much a market for everything and they are a great place to just hang out and feel like a local.

This month, we are spotlighting the Prison Break Market in Johannesburg. If your clients are looking to ‘break out’ of the norm and enjoy a shopping experience that is quirky and offers unique, bespoke goodies and treats, then the aptly named Prison Break Market is for them.

Located in Glenferness, Midrand, it offers artisanal foods, crafters, distillers, and all manner of arts and crafts. Look out for their monthly pop-up markets, themed events, and night market soirées.

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