After the severe impact of the Covid-19 pandemic on the tourism sector across the globe, shorter local trips are now part of the tourism sector’s rethinking of business strategy.
During the launch of Tourism Month in the Northern Cape, Abraham Vosloo, MEC for the Department of Economic Development and Tourism, said day trips were becoming increasingly important.
He encouraged the public to explore their neighbourhood. “Travel differently, travel locally”, was part of his message at the Magersfontein Battle Museum, where the launch took place.
To those in the sector, his words of advice were to diversify their products and services.
Although the number of visitors numbers to the Northern Cape are increasing significantly, it is predicted that this sector in the province will only be fully operational by 2024, due to the lingering effects of the pandemic.
At Magersfontein, merely a 30 minute drive from Kimberley, many South Africans can find an ancestral connection to the battle fought here in December 1899.
At the museum, more information on the background of those involved in the battle can be found.
On visiting the viewpoint over the vast battlefield, it is easy to imagine the fierce battle that took place during the Anglo-Boer War – also known as the South African War; a battle that was decribed as “a tremendous shock for the British Empire”.
As part of the launch, the newly upgraded Bagpipe Lodge was also officially opened. The upgrading was funded by the Department of Economic Development and Tourism, and visitors who want to stay overnight at Magersfontein can make use of this self-catering, three bedroom house with two bathrooms, while enjoying the peace and quiet between the koppies.
Another attraction at Magersfontein is the restaurant where Martha van Schalkwyk has been preparing hearty, home-cooked meals for more than 25 years.
During the week, light meals and, among others, her famous milktart and carrot cake can be enjoyed. The Sunday lunch, for which bookings are essential, will fill visitors with nostalgia, as it is a true reflection of “kos soos ouma dit gemaak het”.
Direct enquiries about Bagpipe Lodge and Van Schalkwyk’s restaurant to 053-833-7115, and enquiries about museums in the province to sunet@museumsnc.co.za.a Friday.
