GRAAFF-REINET NEWS - Graaff-Reinet Tourism Bureau is geared for a bustling festive season.

With an inflow of tourist already visible, the 72 registered guest houses are looking forward to good occupancy levels in December and January. Forty-two of the guest houses are in town and 30 on surrounding farms, where you can experience Graaff-Reinet's 'golden whisper of silence'.

Tourism Manager Jack van Niekerk recently told the Advertiser that 2019 has been a challenging year for local tourism, but is now confident that this festive season will mark a positive turn.

Van Niekerk attributes the smaller number of Dutch, Belgian and German visitors this year to the drought and faulty information about the town's tourism capacity and attractions. "I know the drought has a hugely negative influence on tourism," he said, adding that people spread the wrong message that Graaff-Reinet is without drinking water.

The tourism boss says he has already seen a growth in tourism since mid-November. Booking figures show that from 16 December the town will be buzzing with tourists. "People must stay over and enjoy Graaff-Reinet. Don't just be a day visitor."

Graaff-Reinet Tourism Manager, Jack van Niekerk is looking forward to a good festive season and urges guests to spend more than one day in the area.

Van Niekerk says tourists are fond of The Valley of Desolation, SANParks, museums, restaurants, the Imibala Art Gallery and the spa at the Drostdy Hotel.

The beautiful sunrises, sunsets, birds and wildlife in the Karoo are also huge draw cards. He warns those running unregistered guest houses from home, that, together with the municipality, the tourism bureau will do their best to prohibit illegal business.

Readers can phone the tourism bureau at 049 892 4248 or visit www.graaffreinet.co.za.

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