Tourism is more than beautiful beaches

We find ourselves in full agreement with KZN MEC for Economic Development Mike Mabuyakhulu when he encourages people to actively promote domestic tourism and yes, Zululand in particular boasts a wonderful climate, natural resources and a Blue Flag rated beach.

Tourists are however particularly finicky and when they spend good money to visit our province they make comparisons and expect adequate, if not necessarily, impressive infrastructural support systems.

This means acceptable and inexpensive local transport, articulate and knowledgeable guides, passable roads, friendly service, communities which are appreciative of the value of tourism, crime-free environments, unpolluted establishments, and not least, quick service which minimises queuing.

It goes without saying of course that tourists should not feel exploited by vendors and local crafts sellers.

Patterns of local tourism also influence tourism. Our beaches for instance are so over-crowded at Christmas and New Year that few out-of-province tourists would venture onto them. Lifesavers are at a premium, ablution facilities are frequently vandalised beyond use, most our beaches are not protected against sharks and despite a ban, liquor is often openly consumed causing disturbances

Recently a major problem has been secure beach parking in Zululand with the cars and camping sites of especially tourists being burgled.

These unsavoury realities must be thoroughly assessed and adequately addressed or we must face the prospect that tourists will come, but only once.

Another point of criticism is that historic sites are allowed to fall into disrepair, ostensibly for lack of funds.

Well organised tourist enterprises are self-perpetuating, they attract visitors and create good jobs.

They thrive in an atmosphere of concerned planning, service delivery, respect for the customer and efficiency.