Tourism’s passionate champion taking Pretoria to new level
Susan Marais is transforming Pretoria’s tourism through experiential travel, collaboration, and community upliftment. With a focus on training, inclusion, and authentic experiences, she champions small businesses and local culture.
In the vibrant heart of South Africa’s capital, a quiet but determined revolution in tourism is unfolding and at its centre stands Susan Marais, a woman defined by vision, resolve, and a deep-rooted love for Pretoria.
As owner of 3@Marion Guesthouse and founder of the beloved Pretoria Bucket List, Marais has spent over two decades shaping and supporting the local hospitality industry.
Most recently, her dedication was recognised with a nomination for the prestigious Women of Stature Awards, which honour women who lead with impact, purpose, and resilience.
Now serving as chairperson of the Tshwane Tourism Association (TTA), Marais continues to play a transformative role in shaping Pretoria’s tourism landscape.
Her focus is on collaboration, inclusion, and delivering authentic visitor experiences that reflect the city’s diverse spirit.
“Pretoria is not just one place,” she says with a smile. “It is many little towns stitched together with culture, creativity and community. That is our strength.”
The TTA has a clear mission: to represent, support and unify Pretoria’s diverse tourism sector. From five-star hotels to tour operators, from wildlife guides to family-run bed and breakfast establishments, they believe that everyone has a place at the table.
“I have always believed Pretoria can be a glamorous, bold tourism hub. But we have to come together to make that happen. The TTA is how we do that, and we do it together.”
A major milestone on this path is the upcoming Tshwane Tourism Awards, designed to celebrate the innovation, resilience, and excellence of the local sector.
“The Tshwane Tourism Awards is a celebration of the resilience and innovation within our tourism sector,” she says.
Entries are assessed across four key pillars: Community Contribution and Sustainability, Internal Environment and Team Culture, Industry Collaboration and Engagement, and Business Growth and Improvement.
The judging panel includes respected industry figures such as Dr Nellie Swart (UNISA), Sean Lemour (Tourism Grading Council of South Africa), Sibulele Mbalo (City of Tshwane) and Dr Portia Sifolo (Tshwane University of Technology).
Under Marais’ leadership, the association continues to grow into a vibrant network offering support, training, and opportunities for its members.
A key focus of her work at present is the rise of experiential tourism, a global trend that favours immersive, meaningful experiences over traditional sightseeing.
“We are not just offering accommodation anymore,” she explains. “We are selling memories. Whether it is picking flowers on a Saturday, painting with your children, or hiking through Wolwespruit. It is about connection: human, cultural, and environmental.”
One shining example of her promotional work is the Pretoria Bucket List, launched by Marais in 2015. Initially a personal project to highlight Pretoria’s hidden gems, it has grown into a popular platform encouraging locals and visitors alike to explore the city with fresh curiosity and open hearts.
Marais is deeply committed to empowerment – not as a buzzword, but as a cornerstone of sustainable growth. She proudly encourages and facilitates training for hotels and lodges, which focuses on upskilling teams and entrepreneurs.
“Small businesses often struggle to access quality training,” she notes. “By creating accessible opportunities for learning, we strengthen our entire tourism chain from the housekeeping staff to the manager behind the desk.”
Membership with the association is purposefully affordable and inclusive, encouraging participation from all corners of the industry.
“Tourism is for everyone,” Marais affirms. “If you are adding value, whether you’re arranging local experiences, running a guesthouse or baking rusks, you belong here.”
Her co-operative approach encourages members to design bundled experiences that enhance visitor value while supporting multiple local businesses.
“When we work together, we create something bigger than any one of us. A weekend getaway can include a stay, a food tour, flower-picking or even a local concert. Everyone wins, and tourists love it.”
When asked what excites her most about Pretoria’s tourism future, Marais does not hesitate: people.
“Every new member who joins the association brings something special. A new idea. A new story. A new way to inspire.”
– Entries for the awards can be done by clicking on: https://forms.gle/2cqtRCARxAd5xHc47
For more information: https://www.tshwanetourism.com/awards/
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