INDABA 2009 Welcome Awards

With close to double the amount of entrants to last year, this years Welcome Awards recognised the best on show in South Afirica with 35 finalists and 9 winners.

This South Afican Tourism initiative was hosted by comedians Dr. Riaad Moosa and Kagiso Lediga. Both remained sharp, witty and engaging, striking exactly the right tone between humour and the genuine thrill of being at the centre of Africa’s biggest tourism awards.

While acknowledging service excellence and quality service delivery, what makes these winners special is that they all have the unique ability to make customers feel welcome in addition to showcasing the beauty of South Africa.

The winners, who were described as “world class acts”, are:

1. Accommodation: Overall winner - Karkloof Lodge

• Bed and Breakfast/guesthouses/country house: Auberge Provence Guesthouse
• Backpackers & Hostelling/caravan and camping sites: Jikeleza Lodge International
• Lodges: Karkloof Lodge
• Self Catering: Alpine House
• Hotels: Pezula Resort Hotel & Spa

2. Tour Operators: Overall winner - Specialised African Tour Services

• Tour Operators – less than five years:  Specialised African Tour Services
• Tour Operators – more than five years: Ilios Travel PTY LTD

3. Tourist Guides: Overall winner - Linda Leung

• National: Linda Leung
• Provincial: Gregory Majapela
• Regional or local: Pietman Retief

4. Tourist Attractions:

• SAB World of Beer

5. Travel Agencies:

• South African Travel Centre

6. Restaurants: Overall winner - Nyonis Kraal Restaurant

• Casual dining: Chez Alina
• Fine dining: Nyonis Kraal Restaurant

7. MESE:

• Meetings venues: Van Ryn’s Distillery

8. Parks:

• Game Reserves and National Parks: Mokala National Park

9. On-line:

• City Lodge Group