Durban businesses to benefit from bumper Easter weekend
eThekwini Mayor Mxolisi Kaunda says Durban is ready to host an influx of visitors over the Easter weekend as the situation has returned to normality following the end of an unprotected strike by council workers which adversely affected municipal services.
DURBAN is the place to be this Easter holiday – the eThekwini Municipality says that projections show that about 1.3 million visitors will descend on the city over the Easter break.
“As a result, the hospitality industry will see hotel occupancy rates peak at an average of 65%, rising to 69% over the coming long weekend of March 29 to April 1. The local economy is set to receive a boost with direct spending estimated at approximately R2.7 billion and a GDP contribution of around R6.6 billion, with 11 904 employment opportunities created over this period. The Easter period is set to provide growth opportunities for the local tourism industry as the socio-economic impact projections indicate a steady flow of visitors to Durban over the long weekend,” said the eThekwini Municipality in a recent statement.
eThekwini Mayor Mxolisi Kaunda said the influx of visitors to the city will provide a much-needed boost for the tourism industry.
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“Significant progress has been made to restore key services that were negatively affected by the illegal strike. Our teams are working hard to address the backlog of services, such as refuse collection as well as the restoration of water and electricity supply,” he said.
“We assure visitors that security measures have been put in place as a safety and security plan has been developed by the metro police and stakeholders to ensure visibility at all key tourism attractions and hotspots. This is to ensure a safe, enjoyable and incident-free Easter period,” added Mayor Kaunda.
Durban, Central Durban in particular, including the Durban beachfront and Durban Harbour, provides an array of family-friendly activities, including a beach horse riding experience, gondola rides along the Point Waterfront, outdoor adventures, dining at restaurants around the city and a township experience. The popular theme park, uShaka Marine World, is open for a fun-filled water experience for the whole family.
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“With Durban being named Africa’s Leading Festival and Event Destination for three consecutive years by the World Travel Awards, there are several planned events on offer during this period. These include the 28th Joyous Celebration Easter Weekend, Dubane Summer Break, One Man Concert, Durban International Marathon and eThekwini Surf Pro, to name a few. This period also kicks off the cruise season with several vessels expected to dock at the Nelson Mandela Cruise Terminal. This includes the MSC Virtuosa who will be coming to Durban for the first time as part of her journey as she returns to Europe. Passengers will disembark for a tour of local attractions. Other vessels that will dock in the last week of March and during April include Queen Mary II, Fantasia-class, Ambience, Silver Cloud and Renaissance,” said the City.
Mayor Kaunda said the key message is that Durban is the ultimate Easter holiday destination.
During the Easter weekend, from March 29 to April 1, Durban Tourism will provide entertainment and outdoor activations for visitors. These are aimed at encouraging visitor dispersal and will take place on Florida Road, uShaka Main Beach, uMhlanga Beach, Amanzimtoti Beach and the Shongweni Farmer’s Market.
“We remain open for business and ready to welcome visitors. We hope the momentum from this Easter weekend will continue as we move towards the winter period,” concluded Mayor Kaunda.
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