State of Panorama Route Attractions Report Released, Meeting with MEC requested
A comprehensive report on the Panorama Route Attractions managed by Mpumalanga Tourism and Parks Agency has been released. The sites visited are Pinnacle Rock, God’s Window. Bourke’s Luck Potholes and Three Rondawels. The inspection was conducted by Oupa Pilane and Lisa Sheard, with a media contingent present.
World class tourism destinations as defined by the World Tourism Organisation, are destinations that “offer exceptional experiences and contribute significantly to economic growth, social well-being, and environmental sustainability. Key components include: compelling attractions, accessibility, quality accommodation, diverse activities, well-developed amenities, strong destination marketing and a commitment to sustainable practices.” For the purposes of the report, the guidelines were slightly adapted: Is the site compelling? Accessibility, cleanliness, general maintenance and health and safety compliance, ablution facilities and guest amenities, onsite staff quality, tourist information onsite, value adds and community opportunities.
KLCBT would like to thank Oupa and Lisa for a well-crafted, detailed report that will be used to give the MEC of Economic Development and Tourism a complete picture of the current state of the sites as well as the enormous potential of the site to contribute to the economy of the region. While we are very well aware of the limitations of budget and capacity, lots of red tape and many complications in terms of land ownership and heritage status, we simply have to elevate these sites to world class attractions. We have full confidence that if we all work together towards a common vision, we will be able to overcome any and all of the many stumbling blocks to bring these sites up to a standard that modern travellers seek. We will update you again on this issue as soon as we have met with the MEC.
Meanwhile we would like to encourage you to visit the sites and enjoy the spectacular scenic beauty, which literally takes your breath away no matter how often you visit. Nature does not disappoint!
