Local Industry Weighs In On Global Travel Predictions

One of the worlds largest online travel agencies, Booking.com, has released its Travel Predictions 2024 report, which reveals the biggest trends in the travel and tourism industry for this year.

The report is based on data from a global study involving 27 000 travellers across 33 countries, including local market insights from the UK, Italy, Germany, Spain, the US and Latin America.

According to the report, over a third of travellers (36%) are looking to water-centric getaways as a quick fix, with 75% of travellers finding instant relaxation by the water's edge.

Anton Gillis, CEO of Kruger Gate Hotel, told Tourism Update that the hotels Pool Bar and extensive game-viewing deck with an infinity pool that overlooks the Sabie River, was the propertys most popular feature.

Its the place where guests can simply relax on the loungers, catch up on emails at one of the charging points or enjoy dinner in one of the private dining pods overlooking the river. Throughout the day animals come to have a drink at the river, and its a spectacular sight.

The hotels spa treatment rooms also overlook the river. Theres something so tranquil about being near water and our proximity to the river is central to the overall experience of being at Kruger Gate Hotel.

Madri van der Westhuizen, Campaign and Social Media Manager at ANEW Hotels Resorts, confirmed that an increasing number of travellers were seeking relaxation and rejuvenation near water during their trips.

Water-centric destinations, in particular, are highly appealing for their unique tranquillity compared with other destinations. This trend is certainly reflected in ANEW's portfolio, especially at ANEW Hotel Ocean Reef, she said.

Based in the heart of the Dolphin Coast in Zinkwazi, the hotel offers a sense of solitude and relaxation away from urban life. One of its standout features is its private boardwalk to Zinkwazi Beach, enhancing the serene coastal experience for guests seeking a peaceful retreat.

The report notes that 56% of travellers are inclined to explore off-the-beaten-path experiences.

Gillis said Kruger Gate Hotels experienced and knowledgeable guides took guests off the beaten path to bring them as close as possible to a diversity of flora and fauna.

Van der Westhuizen mentioned ANEW Resort Ingeli Forest Kokstad as a hidden gem that embodied the relaxed off-the-beaten-path experience.

The property is in the Ngeli-Weza forest, and the resort offers a true home-away-from-home experience. It's a great option for families seeking quality time together, as well as for birding enthusiasts and those looking for a peaceful weekend getaway.

When it comes to culinary experiences, 78% of travellers hunger for fresh flavours over the tried and true. Half are planning their trips around specific restaurants or dishes, with 61% prioritising learning about the origins of a destination's iconic dish.

Authentic South African cuisine is on offer at Kruger Gate Hotels popular outdoor Lapa restaurant.

Think braai broodjie s (a traditional Afrikaans barbecued sandwich) and game meat, excellently prepared and beautifully presented, all under the breathtaking African sky, said Gillis.

ANEW believes in indulging all the senses, especially taste, and has introduced a newly revamped la carte menu, focusing on integrating South African flavours in a unique and innovative way.

Our approach is to enhance and elevate simple dishes, turning them into extraordinary culinary experiences that delight the palate. Each dish on our menu is carefully crafted to showcase the diverse and vibrant tastes of South Africa and the areas our properties are located in, said Van der Westhuizen.

For instance, visitors going to ANEW Hotel Hluhluwe on the Elephant Coast will be greeted with a plate of pineapple as this area is particularly known for its pineapple farming.

In 2024, travel will see a profound transformation driven by a collective thirst for deeper connections and self-discovery. The report shows that 24% of travellers want to strengthen their bonds with their partners.

Kruger Gate Hotels Couples Safari Getaway is hugely popular among honeymoon couples or those celebrating anniversaries, birthdays or other such milestones.

Spa treatments for couples are also very popular, along with the romantic turndown that includes sparkling wine in the room and a private dining experience. Theres also private dining, couples massages in the treetops and the option to book a private couples game drive, Gillis added.

ANEW Resort Vulintaba Newcastle provides a couples getaway in the heart of the Drakensberg. Sheltered amidst the mountains, this resort provides a calming experience, ideal for reconnecting with a lo