The group of South Coast gogos who recently enjoyed a weekend on a Gogo Durban Tour hosted by Tourism KwaZulu-Natal were proof that it’s never too late to ignite the flame of love for travel. They were part of the Economic Development, Tourism and Environmental Affairs Khumbulekhaya Programme held at Mpisane Sports Grounds in December 2022 and were winners of a tourism “Know Your Area” competition.
The senior citizens stayed at the four-star Blue Waters Hotel on Durban’s Golden Mile, lunched at uShaka Marine World, took a tour of Durban on the City’s Ricksha Bus which took them to uShaka Marine World, Victoria Street Market, the Grey Street Mosque, City Hall, Francis Farewell Square, the ICC, KwaMuhle Museum, The Cube at Mitchell Park, Florida Road, Moses Mabhida Stadium and Blue Lagoon.
The senior citizens were also treated to a boat cruise around the Port of Durban before heading home with plenty to talk about.
Nhlanhla Khumalo, Acting Chief Executive of Tourism KwaZulu-Natal, said: “They have taken care of their children and their grandchildren and have not had the time or money to travel. The boat tour of the Port of Durban was clearly the highlight for the group. Some gogos we scared as the boat bumped and rocked over the swells in the harbour while others were absolutely delighted.”
According to Khumalo, for most of the new tourists, finding words to express how they felt about their weekend was difficult as this was the kind of trip they had only ever seen on TV or heard about, but now they had experienced it.
“The itinerary was specially crafted, taking the senior citizens’ needs and abilities into account by African Wild Travel, a tour operator which focuses on providing the highest level of service to each of their tourists. It was their depth of care for all on the tour that the gogos unanimously applauded. They also noted the good service and quality of the food at the hotel.
“Tourism owners are playing their part in ensuring tourism in KZN is inclusive by ensuring that there are better rates for senior citizens. While there may not be a sign saying ‘reduced rates for senior citizens’, it’s worth asking about; from accommodation to travel, restaurants and activities,” he concluded.
