The resorts, lodges and nature reserves linked to the N11 offers visitors a wide variety of attractions and accommodations. This road is the mainstay of our town’s tourism industry. Should you ever wonder if the N11 is relevant to the tourism sector, the significant drop in tourism visitors during the period of roadworks on the N11 made it obvious. The inconvenience, delays, and access to facilities swayed our town’s visitors’ decision when planning their holidays.
The infrastructure in a municipal and regional area is the foundation on which tourism development takes place. Tourism infrastructure includes a large number of services, necessary to meet the needs of tourists and increase satisfaction during their stay at the destination, and the N11 serve as an anchor as it is a main arterial road that links critical economic areas.
The Middelburg Chamber of Commerce & Industry (MCCI) established the Tourist Information Centre in partnership with the Steve Tshwete Municipality in 1998. MCCI identified the importance of having an independent organisation that can collate, and assist visitors with information on our attractions and the various establishments. Over the years the services changed and developed as the industry grew. However, we always strived to have the latest information available for visitors to the area.
One of the first activities we launched was an audit of the tourism facilities. The audit not only listed the facilities and attractions on the N11 but also identified possible investment opportunities and gaps in the industry, which in turn facilitated the growth of the business in the early 2000’s. As an independent organisation, MCCI promoted several projects, exhibitions, and events where the product owners could promote the area and themselves, creating a sustainable and growing tourism sector.
We have been waiting with baited breath for the maintenance work on the N11 to be completed. The community and tourism region alike have supported and accepted the delays and inconvenience caused as we knew that in the end, we would benefit greatly from this upgraded national road.
Again, the industry will find a joint strategy to ensure economic growth and sustainability. The Local Tourism Organisation will meet in October 2017 to tie up the plan, anybody interested in participating can contact Lizzie van Aarde at 013 243 2253.