Tourism, Food, and Wine news headlines

*  South African consumer confidence is at its lowest level in ten years, records the Bureau of Economic Research, and expects it to become worse next year!

*   To celebrate World Tourism Day (27 September), Western Cape Tourism Minister braaied at Oudekraal, cycled through Chapman’s Peak, and stopped at pavement cafés en route on Heritage Day. (via media release from Minister Winde’s office)

*  More than 15000 UK restaurants and pubs are participating in a Tax Parity Day, protesting the 20% VAT on hotel, restaurant, pub, and catering costs.  The aim is to prove that sales will increase if the VAT is reduced.

*   A four course Winemakers’ Dinner will be held at the Franschhoek Kitchen at Holden Manz on 26 September, with wines from Arra, Maison, Noble Hill, and Holden Manz. (received via e-mail from Holden Manz)

*  In 2012 one-fifth of all travel revenue was from youth travelers,  and this segment of the travel market has grown by 40% since 2007.  

*   ‘Easy access into the country — there are no visa requirements — paired with safari vacation packages to fit all budgets and an attractive exchange rate ($1 to 10 zar) make it an appealing option for the budget-conscious with a sense of adventure‘  is the glowing accolade our country has received in the Chicago Tribune.

*  At the Africa Hotel Investment Forum held in Nairobi yesterday, poaching was declared as the greatest threat to Africa’s tourism industry. Poachers were declared Africa’s Public Enemy number 1.

*   Staff demonstrations outside employers’ doors are a new way to place pressure on hotels to review salaries, as a Holiday Inn and Radisson hotel in London will experience tomorrow, coinciding with World Tourism Day!

Chris von Ulmenstein, Whale Cottage Portfolio: www.whalecottage.com Twitter: @WhaleCottage