South Africa's tourism operators encouraged to be innovative

South Africa's tourism players were advised to be technically savvy and innovative at The Hospitality Leadership Forum in Johannesburg on Tuesday.

Victor Tharage, director general of South Africa's Minister of Tourism, called on the tourism sector to be innovative and always bring new things to spice up the customer experience.

"Most of our tourism sites and 3,000-kilometer coastline are yet to be fully exploited and discovered. Customers need experience and we have to look beyond the big lights and skyscrapers," said Tharage.

He pointed out that two of the country's sites have been added to the World Heritage sites list. The country's tourism looks bright with easing of visa regime, tourism promotions, removal of travel hurdles and the welcoming of the South African people.

Gillian Saunders, former special advisor to tourism ministry, called on the tourism role players to research about the industry and know what is required.

She called on the focus on China to realize maximum benefits.

She said, "The Chinese are great travellers and their millenniums are ready to travel into the world."

She pointed out that statistics show Chinese love traveling and called for countries to ensure their travel do not have hassles. Saunders said countries must research on what Chinese travelers love and ensure they are lured to visit.