DEAR Editor,-
Can you please help me to change a perception? I’ve lived in Natal and along the coast for much of my life and now reside in Gauteng. We have had a holiday home on the South Coast for 17 years, which we frequent most holidays.
Over the years, the attitude of many of the locals towards people from Gauteng has begun to bother me. We have built up a network of local service providers on the South Coast and have questioned them about this perception. The response has been that local business depends on holidaymakers for survival.
YOU MIGHT ALSO BE INTERESTED IN: Herald Fishing: Holidaymakers enjoy superb fishing
Whilst many local businesses are very friendly, I have overheard people complaining about people from Gauteng and making derogatory remarks suggesting stupidity. I have also been on the receiving end of disrespectful service that suggests I am uninformed.
This has led me to try to do as much business relating to my holiday home as possible in Gauteng and I only use locals if I have no other choice. I realise that there are always difficult customers, but I want people here to think a little bit further.
Some ‘Gautengers’ have been locals for many years and only happen to live in Gauteng at the moment. How much of your business relies on resources from Gauteng? And how much of your income is generated by people from Gauteng?
Some people from Gauteng know how to swim in the sea and surf and want to enjoy, as well as protect, the beauty of this natural coastline – as much as locals do, whilst ensuring that each person has their own little place in the sun.
I look on you as an individual – please do the same for me.
SAD AND DISAPPOINTED
HAVE YOUR SAY
Like the South Coast Herald’s Facebook page, follow us on Twitter and Instagram
For news straight to your phone, add us on WhatsApp 082 421 6033
