Author: Chukwu Godlove
Tourism isn’t just about breath-taking landscapes and unforgettable experiences — it’s also a powerful engine for job creation and economic growth. This was the message from Tourism Minister Patricia de Lille at the opening of the Middle East Africa (MEA) Future Leaders Challenge South Africa, held this week in Johannesburg. “Tourism plays a significant role in our economy and has the potential to create many more jobs,” de Lille told attendees, which comprised tourism entrepreneurs, students, and industry experts. “But to truly unlock that potential, we need a skilled, adaptable workforce, especially among our youth,” the Minister said. De Lille…
In a delightful fusion of travel and fandom, Japan’s Oita Airport has rebranded itself as “Hello Kitty Airport.” This transformation aims to attract tourists during the ongoing World Expo in Osaka. Picture/Lifestyle Asia Located in Oita Prefecture on the island of Kyushu, the airport’s new identity will be in place for six months, offering visitors a unique and charming experience. As travellers enter the airport, they are greeted by vibrant displays featuring Hello Kitty and other beloved Sanrio characters. The airport boasts Instagram-worthy photo spots and colourful banners, enhancing the travel experience with a touch of cuteness. Hello Kitty, created…
The Liberia Civil Aviation Authority (LCAA) has revealed it is finalizing a comprehensive Five-Year Strategic Aviation Master Plan aimed at transforming Liberia’s aviation sector into a competitive, secure, and economically vital part of the nation’s development infrastructure. Speaking at the opening of the Aviation Awareness Week, LCAA Director General Julius Dennis emphasized the importance of this new master plan, describing it as the definitive roadmap to address systemic gaps, upgrade national aviation infrastructure, and boost compliance with international safety standards. “In the coming weeks, the LCAA will submit a comprehensive Five-Year Strategic Aviation Master Plan. This plan will serve as…
Posted on 8 May 2025 More than 100 rhinos have been killed in South Africa due to poaching in the first three months of this year. This is according to figures released by the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment. As reported by The Citizen, a total of 103 rhinos were poached between January and March. The highest number of rhino losses occurred in South African National Parks, with 65 animals killed. According to Save The Rhino, the new data also highlights a key shift in location. Picture: Getaway Gallery KwaZulu-Natal, which had been heavily targeted in recent years, has…
Tourism Minister Patricia de Lille will address delegates and the media at a ceremony to mark the Second G20 Tourism Working Group (TWG) meeting that will get underway on Sunday. “The Second G20 TWG meeting will bring together senior officials, authorities and experts in tourism to engage on the G20 Tourism Priorities that are poised to drive sustainable tourism growth among the member countries,” said the Department of Tourism. The Second G20 TWG meeting will take place from 11 till 13 May 2025, in KwaZulu Natal. It will bring together senior officials, authorities and experts in tourism to engage on…
Gone are the days when travel simply meant ticking off landmarks, snapping photos, and heading home, Cape {town} Etc reports. Picture: Supplied Today’s travellers are searching for something deeper – moments that resonate long after the return flight has landed. A growing appetite for experience-driven travel is transforming the industry, shifting the spotlight from sightseeing to connection, immersion, and authenticity. Modern-day explorers want to feel a place, not just visit it. They’re drawn to the flavours of local cuisine, the stories of people who call the destination home, the textures of natural landscapes, and the rhythm of local life. This growing…
Monrovia — The National Muslim Council of Liberia has begun preparations to facilitate the travel of more than 600 Liberian Muslims to Mecca, Saudi Arabia, for the 2025 Hajj pilgrimage. Secretary General Kuku Reeves told The Liberian Investigator that seven travel agencies have been accredited to sell round-trip tickets, each costing $6,700 per pilgrim. Reeves said the council has partnered with two Ethiopian Airlines carriers to transport pilgrims to and from Saudi Arabia. He added that the council is working closely with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Liberia Immigration Service to streamline travel logistics and documentation. “We are…
Sharing experiences with your furry friend is a joyous opportunity worth cherishing. Whether you are off to enjoy the beauty of nature or the yumminess of a meal, it is lovely to be able to leave the house with your pet. Fortunately, there are a number of spots that stand ready to welcome both you and your furry friend. Here’s a look at a few pet-friendly spots in South Africa: The Wilds Nature Reserve Nestled in the heart of Johannesburg, the Wilds Nature Reserve is an urban sanctuary that offers a perfect escape for both pets and their owners. The…
A number of key roads in Mpumalanga’s Kruger Lowveld region are currently being upgraded. This follows the South African National Roads Agency SOC Ltd (SANRAL) takeover of the key provincial route. Picture: iStock/warchl As reported by Travel News, the upgrades are expected to provide a significant improvement to the access and safety of one of the country’s most visited tourism regions. Upgrades have already commenced on the R540 between Dullstroom and Lydenburg/Mashishing. Moreover, visible improvements have been reported by some visitors over the Easter period. ALSO READ: Stretching your safari experience beyond the Big Five According to Kruger Lowveld Tourism,…
Nairobi — The government has unveiled a new digital compensation model designed to ease the burden of human-wildlife conflict on affected communities by streamlining payments, enhancing transparency, and accelerating claim resolution. Tourism and Wildlife Cabinet Secretary Rebecca Miano said the system, already piloted in six counties, leverages real-time data collection, digital verification, and mobile money platforms like M-Pesa to facilitate quicker disbursement — especially for claims below Sh100,000. “This marks a new era in compensating communities affected by wildlife. It’s a model rooted in transparency, equity, and powered by technology,” Miano said, emphasising the need for timely information and clear…