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Travel is back with a vengeance in 2023, and many new trends have emerged about where, when, how, and why people book certain trips.
One change happening is the shift towards experience-based travel, with many people reporting that they are more interested in collecting unique experiences from their vacation, rather than material things.
Around the world, more people are finally taking that bucket-list trip this year after previously putting it off due to the pandemic and the global lockdown that followed. While many epic destinations remain popular with a wide range of travelers, there are a few that are emerging as hotspots for specific international visitors.
A country that is seeing an increase in the interest of American travelers is South Africawith US visitors making up a large percentage of international arrivals to the country in recent months.
According to the data, bookings are also showing no sign of slowing down, and the summer season from November to March will be a big year for South Africa’s tourism industry.
In 2022, around 263,000 Americans visited South Africa, representing an increase of 220% over the previous year. The 2022 figure is 70% of the pre-pandemic figures, meaning Americans will experience South Africa again this year.
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increased flights
A big reason for more American visitors to South Africa at the moment is the increase in routes from American airports. In fact, recent figures indicate a 45% increase in capacity from the US to South Africa, with Delta and United routes as major contributors.
State-owned flag carrier South Africa Airlines has been around since the 1930s, but advances in technology and range have really gone unseen due to many factors, leaving other airlines to pick up most passengers interested in direct flights. from the US south. Africa.
That being said, South African Airways operates a flight from Washington, DC (IAD) to Accra (ACC), as well as from New York City (JFK) to Johannesburg (JNB).
Experience-Based Trips
One of the biggest trends in post-pandemic travel has to do with how people choose to spend their time, with an emphasis on experience-based and culturally immersive travel.
Perhaps after the global hiatus that forced everyone to stop and reassess what they prioritize, it seems that many have chosen to spend their time and money on enriching experiences, seeking once-in-a-lifetime opportunities to get closer to different environments. , people and cultures.
And what better place to do it than in a country like South Africa? From watching the surfers, sharks, whales and penguins along the shoreline to admiring the view from Table Mountain, there are endless ways to enjoy the environment. Not to mention the endless safari options across the country.
South Africa offers multiple places to spend some time among the continent’s famous Big 5, with fantastic opportunities to witness the majestic lions, leopards, rhinos, elephants and African buffaloes.
food and wine
Another trend taking off in the world of travel is culinary travel, and South Africa is a perfect fit for this growing market.
Research shows that most travelers are interested in trying new foods when they travel, especially local foods that differ from the cuisines of their home country.
South Africa’s food scene is a mix of many cultures, including Dutch, Indian, French and Malay. The diet is rich in meat, and the traditional braai dinner is a popular choice for travelers.
When talking about South Africa’s culinary impact, it’s impossible not to mention the country’s wine scene. Although relatively new to the international market, South Africa actually has over 300 years of winemaking in its history. Many have coined the country’s growing wine industry as a bridge between the old and the new world of winemaking.
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This article originally appeared on TravelOffPath.com
