South Coast Tourism closes visitor information centres
The Covid-19 pandemic has accelerated the inevitable move to digital for the tourism sector.
Ugu South Coast Tourism (USCT) has announced the closure of all Visitor Information Centres (VICs) on the South Coast.
However, visitors will be able to access all necessary tourism-related information via a number of USCT’s digital platforms, including the website and app.
According to the USCT CEO, Phelisa Mangcu, the global trend has seen the provision of tourist information go online, and USCT has been working with dedicated industry professionals to ensure they are fully-prepared to keep visitors informed.
The arrival of Covid-19 has precipitated a ‘low-touch economy’ which is likely to remain in place for some time, so as to ensure staff and visitor safety, – Phelisa Mangcu
She said that the role of VICs had changed over the years, with more visitors likely to turn to their mobile phones or other electronic devices, to research the information they need for a visit to the KZN South Coast.
“Businesses across all industries have had to adapt to a digital reality in order to survive, and tourism is no different,” continued Ms Mangcu.
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“Even before the pandemic, USCT has been developing its digital footprint. This allows us to reach a much wider tourism audience with targeted, up-to-date information on our ever-growing tourism sites and activities. Further to this, the move from printed material will allow for cost savings, as well as decreasing our carbon footprint.”
Some of the easy-access, one-stop online visitor information channels offered by USCT include:
- An updated website: www.tourismsouthcoast.co.za with a dedicated Covid-19 communication portal
- The free app available on Google Play and Apple stores: ‘Explore KZN South Coast’
- Twitter and Instagram accounts: @infosouthcoast
- Facebook and YouTube accounts: ‘South Coast Tourism’
- For those wanting a printed document: The Southern Explorer route guide
Tourism businesses are encouraged to direct visitors to these various USCT digital platforms to access tourism information, and keep informed on upcoming events and specials. Businesses can also submit any relevant tourism information to USCT directly, to be included across the platforms.
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