The Western Cape today launched an innovative one-stop-shop website to inspire confidence in the province and Cape Town as destinations, and help travellers navigate the restrictions on travel and be informed about the important health and safety protocols they need to follow when visiting.
Tourism is a key economic driver in the province, and it is hoped the site will give peace of mind to potential travellers during the summer season that safety protocols are firmly in place.
“As a result of national government’s risk-based approach to international travel and the ‘red list’ of countries restricted to travel to South Africa,” said minister of finance David Manier, “there is still much confusion and uncertainty in the travel and tourism industry, especially as the ‘red list’ is not being reviewed consistently every two weeks as promised. (The last update was on the 19 October 2020.)” He said he hoped this assured people that the province was travel-ready.
“And so, to guide tourists and ensure their visit to Cape Town and the Western Cape is as hassle-free as possible, our Safe Travels website provides the latest information on travel restrictions and the ‘red list’, as well as visa requirements and the latest Covid-19 health and safety information.
Travellers looking to visit the Western Cape, and who require assistance can also send questions to tourismsafety@westerncape.gov.za.
“Featuring safety news, FAQ’s and safety initiatives implemented in the province, SafeTravels.CapeTown has been established as the ‘go to’ page for all visitors coming to enjoy the world-class tourism experience on offer in the province,” said Wesgro CEO Tim Harris.
Maynier said that the province steadfastly believed that national government should scrap the ‘red list’ and allow all visitors into South Africa subject to presenting a negative PCR test conducted at least 72 hours prior to departure, together with screening protocols.
“There is simply no greater risk for transmission of the Covid-19 virus based on the purpose of travel, yet the negative impact of continuing to limit the entry of leisure travellers to South Africa, especially from our key source markets, is severe and extreme. Cape Town and the Western Cape are open and we are travel ready!”
