Which City do you guys think will impress during the 2010 FIFA World Cup and please give a reason why you say so. Consideration shouldn't only be based on the designs of the stadiums but infrastructure and the likes of enabling visitors to enjoy their time in SA.


I would also like to know which one you think will be the last to impress. out of the 9 cities. An order of 1 to 9 will do.

I think the 3 big cities will each impress in their own way and for different reasons which will make it difficult to choose 1 of them over any of the others...

Durban for being so vibrant and different
Capetown for being "european" in Africa
Joburg for just being Joburg really.

I think from there the "smaller" cities will all impress with their organising and general vibe, but it just won't really compare to the bigger cities.

least impressive either bloem or rustenburg. no doubt cape town will be most impressive. tourists will be shocked to see a first world beautiful "europeanesque" city in "Africa"

Cape Town: our most beautiful city in the most beautiful area, also very well run
Johannesburg: biggest metropolis, great apartheid history, genuine township experiences
Nelspruit: nothing much in town - but the Kruger is nearby!
Port Elizabeth: what a great little city, so much to offer
Durban: is pretty cool, nice surfing beaches, warm seas, ...
Pretoria: Hmmmm. Well it can be quite pretty
Polokwane: there are a few game parks nearby
Rustenburg: nada ... oh wait, Sun City!
Bloemfontein: nothing

Based on comments I had from Lions supporters I know who travelled to SA, they all loved Durban. For atmosphere, weather (guess it must be taken into account that it did p*ss down most of the time they were were in CT) & ease of getting around a compact city.

Weren't that excited about Jhb/PTA. Found it claustraphobic, and all thy did was stay ensconced in Sandton, due to the crime scaremongering....

Cape Town has a very slick rounded tourist product (beautiful city, amazing scenery, Winelands etc) that will impress

I think those that head to Mbombela & couple it with a trip to a game park will rate that as an overall experience very highly.

I think durban will impress most because while the rest of the country will be cold and/or wet, durbs will have ideal weather for tourists and has a stand-out stadium to go with it.

I think nelspruit will surprise many, the stadium is great and will be very popular and there is so much to do in the area, besides the kruger park.

The list is as follows for me, I voted for the first 2.


1. Cape Town.
- Clean, beautiful and walkable CBD.
- Winelands.
- The Ocean, Table mount and nature.
- Excellent roads, use of train and bus system, this is after GA uped it's game.
- Nice Cape Architecture.
- CT Station will welcome tourists deciding to use trains for interCity travels with warmth


2. Durban.
- Culture, Zulu and Indian.
- Climate.
- Good Roads.
- Nature.
- Plenty of things to do as a tourists, I hope Bird park will be open.
- Durban Station will welcome tourists deciding to use trains for interCity travels with warmth



3. Pretoria.
- Averagely clean CBD but full of vibe.
- Average public transport
- Nice and attractive Historic buildings.
- Freedom Park, Pretoria Zoo, Voortrekker Monument and other offer a visitor of the best tourism package.
- Pretoria Station will welcome tourists deciding to use trains for interCity travels with warmth


4. Johannesburg.
- Good Roads.
- Joburg Zoo.
- Lesedi Cultural Village
- Sandton/Rosebank will still the show. CBD will suffer cause of lack of hotels, lack of care of the likes of Rissik Post Office, Joubert Park, Drill Hall etc. Constitution Hilll is not even advertised.
- Park Station is a joke.
- Well I have said enough, its just a big city crying to be taken care of. Just take Joburg members of SSC and let them run this city then you will see changes in less than 12 months.


5. Nelspruit
- Nature in the vicinity, this will be the main highlight of the city and will definately make sure that visitors come back.
- Nice small CBD.
- I'm not sure about transport.
- Work has to be done on roads.
- Nice small towns with pubs, restaurants etc
- Not far from Mozambique and Swaziland

6. Port Elizabeth.
- Ocean.
- Nature.
- I think the CBD will also make it.
- Closer to Port Alfred.



7. Polokwane.
- Game reserve less than 5kms from the CBD
- Mapungubwe even though it s bit far.
- Kruger National Park.
- Magoebaskloof and Tzaneen
- Roads are not bad.
- Not sure about public transport.

8. Bloemfontein.
- The spirit of Soccer/Football.
- Close to Clarens.
- Close to Lesotho.
- Historic buildings.
- Vibe in the CBD
- Good roads.
- Bloemfonein Station is also good, I hope they will finish the intermodal transport

9. Rustenburg.
- Pilanesburg Game Reserve.
- Sun City/Lost City.
- Bafokeng Culture.
- Closer to Hartebeespoort.
- Closer to Joburg and Pretoria.


Will add more for each City as I think of them. Above all those, we got our townships closer to the CBD which willl give tourists a diffrent feel.

Weren't that excited about Jhb/PTA. Found it claustraphobic, and all thy did was stay ensconced in Sandton, due to the crime scaremongering....



Thanks for your comments Warren. I think this is the most concerning comment. I think the cities which hosted the Lions tour should have actually asked Lions supportes for comments per city and could have got an idea of were they need to improve.


Scaremongering is one thing that we need to attend to and not just do the talk. From your comments I can read the fact that there will be more people staying in Durban and probabaly CT and just fly for games in Joburg/PTA.

That's really sad as most games will be hosted in Gauteng.

Joburg should have being using tha advantage of being a true African City were all African cultures meet and showcase that to the World. The sad thing is that they seem to believe that hawkers making all the mess on the streets is a symbol of Afrocentric city as per their advert on CNBC Africa.


Joburg has got much to offer if every worthful thing they have could be taken care of. Joburg is closer to the Vaal and they can use the opportunity to lure watersports lovers as Vaal River is just 45 minutes away and the rich histroy of Sharpville in the Vaal can also be of Value.

I do think generally SA will impress. The tournament will be well run, and whilst the overall super slick german efficiency of 2006 cannot be repeated (or even attempted) in 2010, an African world cup (be that slightly rough round the edges by European standards) will be warm, vibrant and good fun.

There will be incidences of crime, however the forecast mass mugging\raping\kidnapping blah blah blah of visitors will not materialise...

Hotels & transportation might creak, but will deliver.

SAB Miller won't run out of beer!

ESKOM won't collapse under the strain

Vuvzela's will be grudginly accepted...

I think the fan parks will rock!!! Might be overwhelmed a bit, but they will rock!

What SA has to showcase in terms of friendly locals, amazing & varied non soccer related activities etc, will mean a vast number of nay-sayers will have to eat their words...

^^ hear hear.

^^ hear hear.

Agree

Nicely put Warren. I think you've hit the nail on the head.

I also agree that the 3 big cities will impress the most:

Cape Town, to those that never been there and don't know much of it...basically as it impresses new tourists on daily basis for the last few years.

Durban, for being unknown to most, will be the biggest surprise I think, infrastructure, new airport, stadium, atmosphere, weather, beach and parks.

Joburg, for proving the world wrong, those that will come with the expectation of this large dump will be blown of their feet (by surprise and not by guns as they would expect). Modern, sophistication, vibe.

I think Rustenburg might be a little dissappointing (if any has to be) and maybe Polokwane due to lack of proximity of attractions and activities and the cities not being wow in itself.

Overall I reckon the whole of SA will surprise those that come with low expectations and proof those right that have very high expectations.

[QUOTE=african biohazard;46038657]Nicely put Warren. I think you've hit the nail on the head.[/QUOTE
What would be funny thou is to see the germans wearing bullterproof vest in our cities. LOL

^^ I still want to see those very tourists getting off the plane in Cape Town in tiny shorts and a t-shirt when there's snow on the surrounding mountains...

Ag, zee znow, I did not know zee Afrika hav zee vinter?! :nuts:

When it comes to the cities:

I think most tourists will opt to stay in Cape Town and Durban, I think there has been too much Jo'burg scaremongering going on, have to agree with that, but, what I think tourists will think:

Cape Town: F^*king wow! The most gorgeous city I've ever seen, so clean, so heritage-filled and sophisticated, not what I expected from Africa; and so cosmopolitan; like French Riviera misplaced! but damn... why is Africa like an Irish spring?

Durban: Wow, the weather's awesome! This is a Miami in the making, weird I haven't heard of it yet. Pity about the city itself needing work, but I love the beaches, the chilled vibe and the fun-atmosphere.

Jo'burg: It is actually not as bad as everyone says, I actually don't feel threatened. But, it is so huge and modern, never thought Africa had a metropolis like this. Not the prettiest city, but the vibe is so Afro-chic!!! LA in the Highveld.

Pretoria: What a quaint, genteel city so close to a juggernaut like Jozi. The stadium could've been a little nicer and transport better. I'd live to see it in summer when it's greener. A little vibe-less at times, but some of the architecture is very impressive.

PE: Um... could be pretty nice, but needs work... what's with all the factories and freeways taking up seafront... love the surrounding landscapes though.

Bloem: I can't feel my fingers at night! My God, this is like a night in north Germany... Very interesting culture, but I'm quite bored. Heard it's very pretty out east though, some snowskiing even!

Rustenburg: Yawn! Town is a little "unkept." Sun City or Hartebeespoort may be a nice outing.

Nelspruit: Weird, it's like the stadium and town is in the bush... wait, it's actually a cool weird. The vibe is very sedated, but man, the game viewing and surrounds are the true African experiences!

Polokwane: Better than expected, but also a little sedate and boring at times. Someone told me about Tzaneen and the Waterberg, heard it's stunning... going to head out there for a day-trip. Stadium is surprisingly awesome.

Overall, Cape Town will be tops. The tourism product is strong and its been pulling the numbers for years now. Four out of every 5 visitors will visit Cape Town.

Joburg has much to gain in terms of the myths about crime in the city.

Durban will move up to another level, without a doubt. Whether they can refine their tourism product and find their niche will be important.

mmm...In terms of impress, we have the usuals.

I'm more interested in which cities will surprise, and Durban is right up there.

In terms of our smaller cities, places like Rustenburg and Nelspruit, have a real opportunity to create a unique experience around their locations. Morning visit to Kruger, Lunch at a unique hotel, match at Mbombela, or morning trip to mines in Rustenburg, afternoon visit to Sun City, evening match at Bafokeng stadium.

I also agree that the 3 big cities will impress the most:

Cape Town, to those that never been there and don't know much of it...basically as it impresses new tourists on daily basis for the last few years.

Durban, for being unknown to most, will be the biggest surprise I think, infrastructure, new airport, stadium, atmosphere, weather, beach and parks.

Joburg, for proving the world wrong, those that will come with the expectation of this large dump will be blown of their feet (by surprise and not by guns as they would expect). Modern, sophistication, vibe.

I think Rustenburg might be a little dissappointing (if any has to be) and maybe Polokwane due to lack of proximity of attractions and activities and the cities not being wow in itself.

Overall I reckon the whole of SA will surprise those that come with low expectations and proof those right that have very high expectations.

I totally agree with your comment, you took the words out of my mouth.
1-Durban for its climate, new airport, superb beaches, nice beachfront, climate, stadium
2- Johannesburg for many people only remember of JHB for violenve a delapidated CBD. They will be surprised by the renovations of the CBD, transport infrustructures, vibe, stadium...
3- Capetown won't surprise so much for many people living abroad already will be expecting enormously of Capetown, although I think they'll be impressed with its natural surroundings ( Table mountain, cape point... ), and by its CBD ( good architecture, cleaness, vibe ), the waterfront, stadium...
4- Pretoria for its architercture ( Union buildings, Voortreeker monument ), the Zoo.

Bloemfontein: nothing


I have to disagree on this one, I think cold will be the destructure. I thin 3 days in this city will be enough but I heard the night life is one of the best.

Maria Moroka Game Reserve

This reserve is situated at the foot of the Thaba Nchu Mountain. A large variety of indigenous game and bird species can be viewed.

Rustfontein Dam Nature Reserve

At this facility various angling, water sports, bird watching, game viewing and camping opportunities are on offer.

Bloemfontein Orchid House

This greenhouse is one of the most modern of its kind in the Southern Hemisphere. It houses a large collection of plants.

Botanical Garden

This peaceful and well-maintained botanical garden is the only one of its kind in the Free State.

Franklin Game Reserve

Situated on Naval Hill in the Bloemfontein inner city, this reserve offers a glimpse of several species of game and an expansive view of the city and surrounding countryside.

Fragrance Garden for the Blind

This garden, catering especially for the needs of visually impaired people, is situated at the foot of Naval Hill.

Bloemfontein Zoo (http://www.bloemfontein.co.za/page_overview.php?func_id=4)

In this zoo interesting collections of birds and animals are well displayed in almost natural surroundings. This zoo has the largest collection of apes in South Africa.

Soetdoring Nature Reserve and Predator Park

This reserve is only 45km from Bloemfontein and is an ideal place to enjoy a family picnic or angle on the banks of the Modder River. The reserve also houses a predator park with lions and Cape wild dogs, giving visitors the opportunity to see the feeding rituals of these wild animals.

King’s Park

Bloemfontein is fondly known as the “City of roses” and more than 4 000 rose trees have been planted in the rose garden at King’s Park, which was opened in 1925 by the Prince of Wales, Eduard VIII.

Sand Du Plessis Theatre

Completed in 1985 at a cost of over R60 million, this is one of the most impressive theatres in South Africa. Works of art form part of the décor in the theatre.

Civic Theatre

Located close to the Sand du Plessis complex, this theatre regularly stages a wide variety of quality productions.

Wynand Mouton Theatre

Mainly student productions are presented at this well-equipped theatre located on the campus of the University of the Free State.

Observatory Theatre

After being used for many years as an observatory, this building on Naval Hill was renovated and transformed into a small but unique venue where theatrical productions, especially cabarets, are being presented.

Oliewenhuis Art Gallery

This Neo Cape Dutch manor was originally erected to house the governors-general of the province and later the State Presidents of South Africa during their visits to Bloemfontein. In 1985 this building was transformed into an art museum where impressive exhibits are on display daily.

Johannes Stegmann Art Gallery

This gallery is situated at the Sasol Library on the campus of the University of the Free State and exhibits not only student art, but also works by other well-known artists.

Mmabana Cultural Centre

This centre in Thaba Nchu exhibits and sells works by local artists.

Setshebelo Centre

Formerly known as Ramkraal, this centre is housed in an old prison. It serves as an education centre for arts, crafts and culture where local entrepreneurs are encouraged to apply their craft.

Botshabelo Art And Craft Centre

A variety of African arts and crafts are on sale at this centre.

Boyden Observatory

This observatory is situated just outside Bloemfontein and is managed by the University of the Free State. This observatory houses several types of telescopes and multi-media presentations on astronomy are also being presented. Contact the Tourist Centre at 051 405 8489 / 8490 for contact details to arrange a visit.

Modenso Park Model Steam Trains

Every Sunday afternoon rides on model steam trains are available to children and adults alike.

Maselspoort Resort

Extensive grounds have been beautifully laid out at this delightful resort on the banks of the Modder River. It offers every opportunity for swimming, rowing, fishing, tennis and other forms of recreation in the open air, while affordable bungalows and chalets are also available.

Naledi Sun Hotel and Casino Complex

This complex in Thaba Nchu is owned by Sun International and offers luxurious accommodation and a variety of entertainment possibilities.

Windmill Casino

This hotel and casino complex offers ten pin bowling facilities, restaurants, coffee shops, pubs and night clubs.

King’s Park Arts and Craft Market

Artists and crafters from all over the country sell their handmade products at stalls at the Arts and Crafts Market in the gardens of Kings Park on the first Saturday of every month. This market also offers a large variety of traditional African crafts.

“Boeremark” (Farmers’ Market)

The Farmers Market in Langenhoven Park is open every Saturday morning. It is a market where hawkers, artists and small-scale farmers can sell their wares. This includes fresh produce, meat, traditional snacks, curios, and hand-made merchandise – almost anything imaginable.

Jazz Clubs

Several clubs in Bloemfontein, Botshabelo and Thaba Nchu are well known for their warm atmosphere and quality music.

Restaurants and Pubs

Bloemfontein's Loch Logan Waterfront and the adjacent Westdene area is a hub for dining out – it is home to a large number of excellent restaurants, coffee shops and pubs, which offer food, live music and hospitality to cater for every taste.

Township Tours

These tours provide a glimpse of important locations and venues that represent decisive moments in MANGAUNG’s and even South Africa’s history, for example a visit to Batho where the ANC was founded in 1912 and Mapikela House where Thomas Mapikela, a founder member of the ANC resided. Some of these tours include the opportunity to experience the vibrant township night life in a variety of jazz clubs and taverns where visitors can taste traditional African home-brewed beer.




Also check this out,

http://www.tourismmotheo.co.za/what-to-see-do/attractions-nature-scenery/index.html

1. Cape Town
2. Durban

Cape Town, due to being South Africa's premier tourist destination etc etc etc


I think our other cities like JHB, DBN maybe PE will impress visitors due to its diversity and history in comparison to other (between the 3/4) cities. I do worry about the smaller cities; I hope they dont give the visitors a "now what" experience

1. Cape Town
2. Durban




Cape Town, due to being South Africa's premier tourist destination etc etc etc


I think our other cities like JHB, DBN maybe PE will impress visitors due to its diversity and history in comparison to other (between the 3/4) cities. I do worry about the smaller cities; I hope they dont give the visitors a "now what" experience



What about other cities?

The problem with Bloemfontein like Joburg is lack of marketing, which irritates the hell out of me.

^^ I dunno hey, its never really excited me to visit, except if the Sharks play there, then i might make the trek.

I personally feel things will be a bit of a let down out of the 3 main cities. The other centres do not have the attractions or accomodation to keep people there for long periods. Most people will bus/fly in in the morning and out after the game back their base cities.

^^ major cities will always offer more than what small cities can and I'm not excepting people to spend more time in cities like Bloem, that's why I said 3 days will be enough. On the other note, we get excited by different things. I feel like Joburg will dissapoint but there are people who still belive that this is a magnificent city while I view Durbs and CT being the cities to be talked about.

I'm going to have to go with Cape Town, as it has a strong tourism market and as such is the most equipped to deal with the influx of tourists. Durban, too, will surprise due to being unheard of by many. Joburg/Pretoria for not requiring bulletproof vests like most think =P

In terms of impressing people, I think Cape Town has it. I'm pretty sure Durban will be the big surprise though because it is not as well known internationally. People expect great things from Cape Town, and that's what they will get. Durbs is going to rock their socks off though. Jozi on the other hand is just Jozi. I don't feel they've really got the spirit like the other big cities. It's too business-y there. I imagine it'll be pumping because of so many flights going through ORTIA, but the real party is going to be on the coast. Hey, maybe even PE will join in the fun?

For the younger markert(20-35yrs old) for whom partying and getting laid is the most important thing outside matchday, cape town(lowest HIV rate in the country, somewhat safe) should be able to live satisfy their needs. Then there will be the "have fun, stay safe(dont go outside after 6pm)" visitors, who i think will have a good time in cape town, and more so in Durban(great weather, nice beaches, safe-ish kind of place). Johannesburg I suspect will be appealing to the older markert(50-60yrs old) who would find it fascinating to learn about South Africa, To learn of its history and what not. The chinese will absolutely love Johannesburg. But Rustenburg will be a sellout for them once they learn that theres a huge casino in the city. I expect all casino's to be crowded by the chinese. Lol. After the 1st 15 days when they realise that crime isn't such an issue in the tourist friendly areas, some may even leave Cape Town for Johannesburg & Durban for accomodation, because prices at the Cape should be galactical, and it might be over crowded(big crowd = big possibility of crime), and it might not be able to live up to the hype(just maybe).

We seem to disregard the time of season that the world cup will be staged in, thats Winter. People will come in their numbers to Cape Town to see the Mountain and eat fish and drink tea at 4 oclock feel safe which they could do back at home. But many European tourist will be coming for the good old Durban sunshine and the Durban party animals dont hold back on anything. Thats because eThekwini is like Joburg and Cape Town combined, with our sky scrapers and the stretching golden bitchs... I mean beachs we are not called Africa's play ground for nothing.

We seem to disregard the time of season that the world cup will be staged in, thats Winter. People will come in their numbers to Cape Town to see the Mountain and eat fish and drink tea at 4 oclock feel safe which they could do back at home. But many European tourist will be coming for the good old Durban sunshine and the Durban party animals dont hold back on anything. Thats because eThekwini is like Joburg and Cape Town combined, with our sky scrapers and the stretching golden bitchs... I mean beachs we are not called Africa's play ground for nothing.

Hey Guys

I just wanne say that everybody will be surprise to what south africa will be offering them. I think all the major 3 cities is cool, the other cities(dorpies), I'm sure they will prevail, dont be so negative guys and let who ever is coming just enjoy themselfs.

Difficult to say, also the term "impress" could have many different meanings to the visitor, CT will impress many first time visitor's seeing is that they know it is a world class city but Im sure they expect some flaws which they wont find so in that aspect CT will impress them. Durban will impress ppl alot seeing that no one knows much about it, besides the beaches & things to see the diversity will be a major draw card. Jo'burg I cant hold it in 1 city because of the various developments thats taking place in the Gauteng region I think the province it self but mainly the ring around Jhb CBD till Sandton will leave many in awe, the sheer scale of things and the quality of development will astound the tourists.

^^ eish Bucaneer, I don't know why I have to answer you. I still have a grudge after what you did to me at Orlando over the weekend.

We obviously do not expect people to say any South African city is better than Paris, Munich or even others but having an idea of what people think of Africa, the "impress" here mean proper infrastructure, services, beauty, cleanliness and so forth.

^^ I still want to see those very tourists getting off the plane in Cape Town in tiny shorts and a t-shirt when there's snow on the surrounding mountains...

Ag, zee znow, I did not know zee Afrika hav zee vinter?! :nuts:

When it comes to the cities:

I think most tourists will opt to stay in Cape Town and Durban, I think there has been too much Jo'burg scaremongering going on, have to agree with that, but, what I think tourists will think:

Cape Town: F^*king wow! The most gorgeous city I've ever seen, so clean, so heritage-filled and sophisticated, not what I expected from Africa; and so cosmopolitan; like French Riviera misplaced! but damn... why is Africa like an Irish spring?

Durban: Wow, the weather's awesome! This is a Miami in the making, weird I haven't heard of it yet. Pity about the city itself needing work, but I love the beaches, the chilled vibe and the fun-atmosphere.

Jo'burg: It is actually not as bad as everyone says, I actually don't feel threatened. But, it is so huge and modern, never thought Africa had a metropolis like this. Not the prettiest city, but the vibe is so Afro-chic!!! LA in the Highveld.

Pretoria: What a quaint, genteel city so close to a juggernaut like Jozi. The stadium could've been a little nicer and transport better. I'd live to see it in summer when it's greener. A little vibe-less at times, but some of the architecture is very impressive.

PE: Um... could be pretty nice, but needs work... what's with all the factories and freeways taking up seafront... love the surrounding landscapes though.

Bloem: I can't feel my fingers at night! My God, this is like a night in north Germany... Very interesting culture, but I'm quite bored. Heard it's very pretty out east though, some snowskiing even!

Rustenburg: Yawn! Town is a little "unkept." Sun City or Hartebeespoort may be a nice outing.

Nelspruit: Weird, it's like the stadium and town is in the bush... wait, it's actually a cool weird. The vibe is very sedated, but man, the game viewing and surrounds are the true African experiences!

Polokwane: Better than expected, but also a little sedate and boring at times. Someone told me about Tzaneen and the Waterberg, heard it's stunning... going to head out there for a day-trip. Stadium is surprisingly awesome.

Ha ha ha... your humour always works for me!

I agree with you 100%.

I think really that, if people get the chance to move between all the cities involved, everybody is bound to be 'impressed' by at least one of them.

The ONLY thing that I feel will count against Johannesburg (and Pretoria for that matter) is the fact that it will be winter, and it will be BROWN, BLACK and DUSTY.

I voted for Cape Town, for obvious reasons - those who have never been will be completely impressed by the city. However, I think many people expect to be impressed by Cape Town, so the surprise factor won't be high. Jo'burg on the other hand has such a nasty reputation that the bar is pretty low. People from overseas that have visited me in the past were pleasantly surprised by Jo'burg and this totally changed thei perceptions of the city. This is a good thing and bodes well for te city

^^ Waltjie - June can still be very green in Jo'burg. Its dries-up mainly after the frost spells of lte June and July.

^^ Waltjie - June can still be very green in Jo'burg. Its dries-up mainly after the frost spells of lte June and July.

Hmmm, that is true actually. With the way the weather is changing these years, we tend to get rain into May.

Thank goodness!

Who knows what weather we'll have next year if this week's weather in Cape Town is anything to go by.

Personally I love the "doom and gloom," but it seems I'm in the minority :D

^^ I like it too (though this year its going on a bit long) hoping the late spring this year means late winter start next year (so the tourists will be happy)

I think we may be surprised at what impresses the tourists. I think Durbs and Cape Town will definitely impress them, but the smaller cities could surprise. When I was a waiter back in my student days I used to ask tourists all the time what they liked best about SA. Often its not the big cities - once they get over the fact we actually have skyscrapers theyre like 'meh'. One French couple took the cake for the wierdest answer: In the whole country they liked Graaf Reinet the best (!) When I asked why they said they loved the countryside, the open skys, the friendly people and the lack of people. Interesting eh?

oh and I really think Cape Town will surprise.
We get too comfortable with out tourism figures thinking everybody knows where we are and what Table Mountain is. Just because we know what they are and what the city has to offer does not mean that the millions of tourists both soccer lovers and tourists know this.

The WC opens CT to a whole different market.

I will say its the Big 3


1.Johannesburg could suprise many with the high rises ( We had students from Holland who were actualy suprised to see tall buildings in SA its something they never thought they will find here).
- Morden Shopping Malls
- Some could want to see "District 9".

2. Cape Town- well many already know about it and the Brits already think its the best city outside England (offcourse they will never vote Paris :lol:)

3. Durban could be a real suprise- Wow Mumbai meets Miami in Africa.
- and the whole Umhlanga Rocks area and the "north" coast will be good even in winter and not many people have an idea that this place exists (someone needs to be fired in SA Torism Board :lol:).


4. Pretoria could impress with the Union Buildings I personally love it its huge (I think its even bigger than the Congress Building in Washington DC)

5. Nelspruit/Mbombela- in the middle of a bush, small in size, but the Riverside area is eye candy.
- Visit the Kruger and hope to see some tigers and pandas :nuts:

-But you can visit chimpanzees yes chimpanzees in South Africa checkout www.chimpeden.com (http://www.chimpeden.com)

-Visit God's Window and spot a UFO
-Blyde River Canyon (3rd largest of earth).

But you can also mountain hike and rock climb or canue or just get lost in the bushes.

5. PE- I dont know much about it in person

6. Bloem- does not look lively (dont hunt me down I beg you)

7. Polokwane- visit parks or just visit Mugabe while you are at it.

8. Rustenburg was saved by Sun City.


and amazingly one Dutch student said to me "I was suprised to see so many white people in Africa and they speak a language that I could understand" :lol: she has never heard of Afrikaans.

The problem with Bloemfontein like Joburg is lack of marketing, which irritates the hell out of me.

Joburg can be marketed to the moon and back and I still wouldn't choose it if I could tour any South African location/city/town... It's just not my thing. Honestly, I'm not an inland person. I think I'd go crazy.

I can tell you now that if we had the Gautrain up and running, a tourist arriving in underground Sandton, elevating to the surface to be met by a brand spanking new 65 foot tower, would blow the socks off 90% of them.
Unfortunately this is not happening, so I'll have to go with the same ol':

Cape Town

Durban

Jozi

for reasons already mentioned in the thread

I can tell you now that if we had the Gautrain up and running, a tourist arriving in underground Sandton, elevating to the surface to be met by a brand spanking new 65 foot tower, would blow the socks off 90% of them.


True.

^^ eish Bucaneer, I don't know why I have to answer you. I still have a grudge after what you did to me at Orlando over the weekend.

We obviously do not expect people to say any South African city is better than Paris, Munich or even others but having an idea of what people think of Africa, the "impress" here mean proper infrastructure, services, beauty, cleanliness and so forth.

lol, ya then in that terms I think ALL host cities...maybe Rusternberg & Polokwane not so much will impress the visitor's.

^^ i don't know, we don't see our cities the way foreigners do so a place like polokwane might have that small town charm that many look for when they come to AFRICA.

lol, ya then in that terms I think ALL host cities...maybe Rusternberg & Polokwane not so much will impress the visitor's.

I will choose Polokwane over Bloem.

^^ i don't know, we don't see our cities the way foreigners do so a place like polokwane might have that small town charm that many look for when they come to AFRICA.

true.

i might be wrong but i'm always surprised, when we have friends visiting from europe or elsewhere, what they want to see, what surprises them and what sticks with them.

^^ Well, my father in America, who has only been here once, is such a case. He absolutely loved the Cape and the Winelands, his favourite town was Knysna; but he had some strange soft spot for Bloem. We only stayed there one night en route from the Drakensberg back to the Cape... but...

He found Ofm interesting and wanted to know who was the Afrikaaner singing the bastardised-CountryWestern-music (it was Steve! :ohno:), he also said the FS reminded him of Nebraska. He liked the people and said the Afrikaaners were hilarious and he met people that invited them to their homes and farms to watch "Noot vir Noot" and drink Brandy... NO LIE!!! :lol: He found the Bloem Spur interesting, seeing an American Indian themed restaurant in the Free State of all place he said. He also couldn't believe a little black and red "psycho-finch" that was always flying across the road with a tail that looked impossible to fly with... The Long-Tailed Widow.

True, tourists have an interesting view on what places and experiences stick with them.

^^ and i think we have so many hidden treasures like that, we as saffers will be surprised by the positive feedback. of course you still get tourists who want any place they go to be like europe or whatever they're used to, so some might moan about the transport systems etc. but over all it will be very positive.

Another accolade courtesy of Lonely Planet...

Cape Town the No.7 city globally to party the night away in.

Belgrade got No.1, crazy, gorgeous Slavic chicks I suppose. :nuts:

Another accolade courtesy of Lonely Planet...

Cape Town the No.7 city globally to party the night away in.

Belgrade got No.1, crazy, gorgeous Slavic chicks I suppose. :nuts:

The City of Cape Town is pleased to announce that Cape Town has won the 2009 Virgin Holidays Responsible Tourism Award in the Best Destination category.


http://www.capetown.gov.za/en/Pages/CapeTownwinsglobalResponsibleTourismAward.aspx

1 Cape Town This is where you'll bump into a Soccer star who just got a Multi million dollar deal, Rich and famous who's who of sports, very cosmopolitan and all great things you guys mentioned

2 Durban Warm beaches, festive mood, very laid back, We gonna party till sun comes out!:lol:

3 Joburg Wow it kinda looks like home-a-bit. first timers will probably feel uneasy the first few days (perceptions) once they hit Soweto in the afternoon to expiriance a bit of Township life and food they'll start getting more relaxed about things sipping ice cold beer in a company of locals while the sun goes down...when they realize the sun is down but are still keen for rounds of cocktail they'll hit the N1 north bound to Rivonia for a lapdance:lol: and party till sun comes out!

I find the idea that a tourist from europe would pay R10k for a plane ticket to go shopping at the Waterfront hilarious. Get out there and see the gameparks, winelands, Drakensberg, just about any place out of town you silly buggers.

Anyway. From what I have read it seems to me that the crowd that will come for the SWC are different from normal tourists. The majority of people who are coming will be here for the soccer first and foremost. What they want is a cheap bed to sleep in, a bar to have drink in and some chow to keep them going. Whichever city can offer them those things will be the biggest hit.

The market that tourism SA should be after are all those people who have always wanted to come to SA who are using the SWC as an excuse to come. They will be the guys who travel around the country and see the best SA has to offer. Most importantly these are the people that will tell their friends to also make the trip and spend money in SA.

^^ Well, my father in America, who has only been here once, is such a case. He absolutely loved the Cape and the Winelands, his favourite town was Knysna; but he had some strange soft spot for Bloem. We only stayed there one night en route from the Drakensberg back to the Cape... but...



Can't blame him ;)

Magoebaskloof...Polokwane


Magoebaskloof

Magoebaskloof is about 60 kms from Polokwane. On your way there you pass ZCC which visitors can always visit and learn about the church. The drive to Magoebaskloof has got one of the best scenery especially after passing ZCC.[/B]

http://sekororo.blat.co.za/files/100_4997s1.jpg


"The picturesque Magoebaskloof region is situated at the northern tip of the Drakensburg Mountains in the Limpopo Province, overlooked by the Wolkberg and Iron Crown Mountains and is often referred to as the 'Land of the Silver Mists'.

Just a 3,5 hour drive from Johannesburg, 60kms from Polokwane and 40kms from Tzaneen, this is an ideal stop-over to the Kruger National Park which is only an hour away.

The quaint town of Haenertsburg is the heart of the area and boasts a number of tea gardens, excellent restaurants and curio shops.

In spite of its small permanent population, Magoebaskloof has a wide variety of accommodation to choose from which is listed on this web site ranging from bed and breakfast establishments to guesthouses and hotels. There are also delightful tea gardens, excellent restaurants and curio shops situated around the village to choose from.

Some of the best fly fishing opportunities in South Africa can be found in the Magoebaskloof area as well as many other outdoor activities such as hiking, mountain biking, horse-riding and for the more adventurous, abseiling, quad-biking and white water tubing!

There is a surprising diversity of other interesting things to do and see such as the abundant rare archaeological sites, disused mines, magnificent montane grassland, indigenous forests, waterfalls and the beautiful Ebenezer dam are some of the many tourist attractions.

In a world of stress, superficiality and constant change, one thing is certain - visitors to our mountain are assured of a warm welcome and a memory-making experience!
"


- birding, http://www.magoebaskloofbirding.co.za/bird.htm
- Canopy Tour, http://www.magoebaskloofcanopytour.co.za/
- Quad Biking, Abseiling, Horse Rising, Mountain Biking, Fly fishing etc, http://www.thabametsi.com/
- Debegeni Falls, water fall in nature reserve were one can braai/berbeque in a forrest setting , http://www.southafricatravelhub.com/major-cities-in-south-africa/pietersburg-south-africa/debegeni-falls.html
- Water Sports, http://www.magoebaskloof.co.za/index.cfm?Aid=1885890061




Canopy Tour
http://www.magoebaskloofcanopytour.co.za/images/photo-8-Large.jpg http://www.magoebaskloofcanopytour.co.za/images/photo-14-Large.jpg

http://www.magoebaskloofcanopytour.co.za/images/photo-9-Large.jpghttp://www.magoebaskloofcanopytour.co.za/images/photo-9-Large.jpg

http://www.magoebaskloofcanopytour.co.za/images/photo-3-Large.jpghttp://www.magoebaskloofcanopytour.co.za/images/photo-2-Large.jpg


Thaba Metsi
http://www.thabametsi.com/gallery/quads/Jeep%20training%20035%20(Small).jpg



One of the things I can encourage, based on my experience when I was there is to hire a motorbike and do breakfast tour around the place. It's damn breath taking. There's also plenty of tea gardens in Magoebaskloof.

Tzaneen...Polokwane

Tzaneen

http://www.coachhouse.co.za/images/index1.jpg

Wining and Dining, Spa, Farm walks etc, http://www.coachhouse.co.za
Microflighting, http://www.golimpopo.com
Rock Climbing, http://www.golimpopo.com
Land of the silver mist tour, http://www.tzaneen.co.za/tzntourism/landofsi.htm
Pathways to the past tour, http://www.tzaneen.co.za/tzntourism/pathways.htm

http://www.guestfiles.co.za/my_documents/my_pictures/3F2_tzaneen.jpg

^^ Sadly, the Sapekoe tea plantation and estate is in ruins now - 10 years ago it looked like this. Was there earlier this year and its not the same. The owners lost a land redistribution deal. The tea house is still there.

i think pta and bloem will be the least memorable. i live in pta so it's not a sentimental opinion, it's just we don't have the kind of attractions other places do.

i think pta and bloem will be the least memorable. i live in pta so it's not a sentimental opinion, it's just we don't have the kind of attractions other places do.

I don't think Pretoria is going to be that bad. True, it doesn't have everything that the big 3 cities have, but there's still lots to do. See, the thing about Pretoria is that it's not in your face like Joburg or Cape Town. You have to really explore this place to find the truly amazing little things, which there are plenty of.

There's a lot more to this city than people think. :) And the really awesome stuff isn't in Hatfield, but in the city centre, or to the east.

^^ Sadly, the Sapekoe tea plantation and estate is in ruins now - 10 years ago it looked like this. Was there earlier this year and its not the same. The owners lost a land redistribution deal. The tea house is still there.


So sad.

I don't think Pretoria is going to be that bad. True, it doesn't have everything that the big 3 cities have, but there's still lots to do. See, the thing about Pretoria is that it's not in your face like Joburg or Cape Town. You have to really explore this place to find the truly amazing little things, which there are plenty of.

There's a lot more to this city than people think. :) And the really awesome stuff isn't in Hatfield, but in the city centre, or to the east.

I have to agree wit you Rib. http://www.tshwanetourism.co.za/activities/attractions.php

i guess i've just been living here too long :)

You always have some people very interested in history and wars, especially of the older generation. In that respect Bloem and Pretoria might be appealing to these guys, to add to the soccer a bit of history and interesting architecture. AngloBoer War sites and associated things is appealing to some England, Australia, New Zealand tourists.

The one that will make the biggest impression without a doubt is Joburg.Why?to me, most foreign outsiders are aware of cape town as a nice tourist destination,durban as a beach town,they will have seen them both featured in travel programmes and magazines.

But Joburg(pardon the pun)is probably the most alien to them in terms of coverage,some probably thinking all of joburg resembles district 9.

So when they see wide roaded,green,leafy suburbs,modern architecture/beautiful old buildings,don't see everyone walking around wearing body armour(haha)
,i think that will leave the biggest impression on them.
Also images of the other side to joburg being beamed to millions watching the world cup who otherwise knew nothing or only bad,of joburg,will be fantastic in terms of perceptions of the city.

^^ I think you're overestimating the amount of foreign nationals who know much about South Africa at all. Cape Town may be one of the top tourist destinations on the continent, but compared to many other international tourist destinations, it's still comparitively small fry. I haven't met very many people who know a great deal about Cape Town, nevertheless Durban (which is a shame).

I think overseas Johannesburg gains the most press, albeit a great deal of bad press, so it should definitely impress come World Cup period. Remember, these are soccer fans that will be travelling to South Africa, not the typical travel magazine-reading tourist specifically interested in travelling to the country.

Therefore, I believe all cities will impress in their own way.

I think cape town sticks in most fairly worldly peoples heads as 'that one nice/safe south african city'ha,agree that durban is probably quite unheard relatively internationally.

to put into perspective i am always at global meetings and people can normally name one sa city which tends to be joburg and then ask where is best to see the mountain when there. clearly getting cities confused and these are high level business people that travel alot. as a country we have so much education we need to do. that said i fear that with the chaos likely to descend on joburg due to too many people and lack of transportation to get around the spread out city it will not be able to show off its good side too easily

I think Joburg will do very well.

Joburg is the last place I'm worried about.

honestly why???

Because some cities such as Port Elizabeth are in far deeper shit.

Johannesburg will impress with Gautrain. Foreigners will be surprised that one of the world’s most advanced metro systems is running in Africa.

However, Cape Town will impress the most for all the reasons mentioned above: the natural setting, the cleanliness, the European atmosphere, the advanced tourism infrastructure, the history, the sheer volume of places to visit, the thriving CBD, the genius Waterfront, etc.

Cape Town will impress those who are surprised to see a slice of Western Europe in Africa. I think Durban and Joburg will do more to show how impressive an African city can really be - and that will be the surprise factor IMO - but, I guess it depends on preconceptions

Guys I am not sure Joburg will impress that much for the following reasons:

1) most overseas visitors are not wowed by endless shopping malls, office parks and traffic jams.

2) it will be very hard for most football fans to navigate. Public transport will be non existent and the distances between where people are staying (northern suburbs hotels) and the football stadiums will be vast meaning that the match day atmosphere that one will get in Durbs and Cape Town with everyone walking to the ground will not exist.

3) Unlike Cape Town (the CBD and the V&A) or Durban (the beachfront) there will be no central focal point for the festivities. Sprawling, largely suburban Joburg will not be able to recreate the vibe of the more centralised cities like Dubs and Cape Town.

4)nightlife is spread out and not easy to find if you are a tourist. Its not like Cape Town where one can head to Long Street or the V&A and party the night away by bar and club hopping.

^^ Maybe what the proponents of Johannesburg meant, is that the "level of African development" will wow them. However, completely from a touristic appeal point-of-view and convenience-for-fans point of view, we all know Cape Town will impress. I'm sure the Europeans will love the break from normal SA winter they will get in Durban... they notoriously loathe missing their summer for a winter somewhere else.

On the opposite end of the scale, I really think Rustenburg is not going to wow anyone. Although I understand the need for as many provinces to get in on the action as possible, besides Sun City and game reserves way north of town, the town of Rustenburg itself is quite depressing IMO. I would have almost have preferred East London or George getting in on it... from only a "lets show them gorgeous South Africa" point-of-view. But, it's all in the past now...

Is CT as warm as Durban in the winter ?
That sentence sounds wierd.

No not at all. Cape Town has four distinct seasons. Winter is significantly colder.

No not at all. Cape Town has four distinct seasons. Winter is significantly colder.
Jun-Jul average max in Cape Town: 17°C; min: 7°C (windy; often wet; sometimes gorgeous)
Jun-Jul average max in Durban: 23°C; min: 11°C (breezy to still; dry; mostly sunny)

mike made the points this mike was trying to allude to

Breaking News

Spain is coming our way - it's a tease here... but they made a big "2010 & beyond" announcement in KZN today...

Breaking News

Spain is coming our way - it's a tease here... but they made a big "2010 & beyond" announcement in KZN today...

Michaelhouse and Woodridge country estate as the base camp for Paraguay?

OR

is whitney coming?

Michaelhouse and Woodridge country estate as the base camp for Paraguay?

OR

is whitney coming?

LOKL, I think Whitney is coming