Pieter de Bruin (FNB): “We have seen the industry’s best, and it has delighted us”
The highly contested 2008 Welcome Awards, that recognise and reward service excellence in travel and tourism, culminated last night (10 May 2009) in a stellar ceremony at INDABA in Durban, where the pinnacle of the tourism industry was rewarded for brilliance, for ingenuity and for offering visitors world-class and globally competitive services and experiences.
The 2008 Welcome Award winners are:
· Accommodation: Karloof Lodge and Spa
· Tour Operator: Specialised African Tour Services
· Tourist Attraction: SAB World of Beer
· Restaurant: Nyoni’s Kraal Restaurant
· Parks: Mokala National Park
· Travel Agencies: South African Travel Centre
· Tourist Guide: Linda Leung
· Business Tourism (MICE): Van Ryn’s Distillery
· Best website: City Lodge Group
Says Hanneli Slabber, Global Manager: Product at South African Tourism: „Each of the winners exemplifies the highest standard of customer service in our country. Their products and services are innovative and put customer comfort, ease and accessibility first. Their levels of service excellence enrich the visitor experience that, in turn, grows our industry and impacts positively on the broader South African economy. South African Tourism is proud to be associated with each of them.“
The Welcome Awards (a South African Tourism initiative sponsored by First National Bank) were founded four years ago with the express intention of improving service levels in the tourism sector. Winners are chosen based on the value they add to customer expectations; on their commitment to excellence in serving customers; and on exceeding visitor expectations.
Pieter de Bruin, Head of the Tourism Division at First National Bank says: „The winners are definitely at the top of their game and we congratulate them all. We are inspired by their passion, their hard work and their commitment to create an outstanding hospitable experience.“
„This year’s competition was tough with nearly double the amount of entries compared to last year. We have seen some of the industry’s best on show, and it delighted us.“
Entries are open for the 2009/10 Welcome Awards. They are open to all tourism service providers and aim to identify tourism related businesses that raise the standard of customer service, showcase the best of the industry, and enhance word of mouth marketing through providing exceptional experiences.