The tourism sector is looking forward to a promising year after the announcement that the country will move to Level 1 lockdown. Most of the remaining restrictions on the economy – including the tourism sector – have been removed, and the ECPTA is feeling a lot more optimistic than last year.
Although this is exciting news for the country, it’s still important that businesses continue to adhere to stringent health and safety protocols to ensure that Covid-19 cases remain low.
“As we ease restrictions, we cannot let our guard down. The few remaining restrictions aim to prevent super spreader events,” President Cyril Ramaphosa said.
“The possibility of a third wave is constantly present – as is the threat of new variants”, he said.
This is something South Africa’s tourism industry has been emphasising through its Travel Safe – Eat Safe certification programme.
Returning to Level 1 has had numerous benefits – not only to the country as a whole – but to the tourism, hospitality and business travel sectors too.
The shortened curfew hours, which now apply from midnight to 04h00, enable restaurants to trade for longer and give airlines more flexibility in their arrival and departure schedules.
Restrictions on the sale of alcohol (previously only allowed from Monday to Thursday) have been lifted, with retail liquor traders only prevented from selling alcohol during the designated curfew hours.
Indoor gatherings of up to 100 people are now allowed, and 250 people can attend outdoor events.
Five international airports will be allowed to operate: OR Tambo (Johannesburg), King Shaka (Durban), Cape Town, and Kruger Mpumalanga in Nelspruit – a key gateway to South Africa’s Kruger National Park and several private game reserves.
“The return to alert Level 1 means that most of the remaining restrictions on economic activity have been removed. We expect this to lead to higher consumer spending, bolstered by the steady recovery in employment,” said Ramaphosa.
