AQUILA COLLECTION

HOSTS MEGA-FAM TRIP IN CAPE TOWN TO BOOST TOURISM FROM POLAND

Cape Town, May 25, 2023 – Aquila Collection, in collaboration with Cany B Global Events, recently organized an extraordinary fam trip in Cape Town to generate exponential brand awareness and elevate travel from Poland to South Africa, with a focus on growing tourism numbers to Cape Town. The event, named “The Ultimate Cape Town Safari Experience,” took place from May 16 to May 22, 2023. 

It showcased the captivating beauty of Cape Town, the proximity of the Aquila Private Game Reserve and Inverdoorn Private Game Reserve’s Big 5 safari experiences and the renowned wine regions between Tulbagh and Stellenbosch.

The fam trip was made possible through a partnership between Aquila Collection, Cany B Global Events, Travel Advance (a PR and Marketing agency based in Central Eastern Europe) and Turkish Airlines. Travel Advance was appointed by Aquila Collection in 2022 to promote, not only the portfolio of its Cape Town businesses, but also to focus on establishing Cape Town as a must-visit destination. Turkish Airlines, a world-class airline known for its comfort and connectivity, played a pivotal role in emphasizing the convenient route between Poland and Cape Town.

Prominent Polish travel trade and media delegates were invited to participate in the fam trip, including National Geographic Magazine Poland, Onet Podróże, Business Traveller Poland, Itaka, Rainbow, Flow Africa, Best Reisen, Ecco Holiday, Biuro Podróży Nekera, Conqueror Travel Club and InDreams Incentive Programs. These influential companies have the ability to create a massive impact on travel from Poland to Cape Town.

Travel Advance CEO, Paddington Tucker: “Poland is the growth champion of Europe, with an impressive 189% increase in its economy from 1990 to 2020. Despite the challenges posed by the Covid pandemic, Poland remains the fastest growing economy on the continent, experiencing an 11.2% rise in GDP between Q1 2023 and Q4 2019. At Travel Advance, we collaborate with various Destination Management Organisations to drive arrivals from the dynamic Central Eastern Europe region. Our research indicates a growing appetite among Polish travelers for long-haul destinations, with places such as the Maldives, Thailand, Japan, South Korea, Mexico, Malaysia, and Vietnam showing the strongest growth in 2023.

He added: “When Aquila Collection approached us in 2022 to support their efforts in promoting Cape Town and the surrounding region, we were thrilled. We recognize the immense potential in Poland and Czechia for the Western Cape.  Our deliberate selection of leading leisure and MICE operators, who possess the influence to shape the market, has allowed us to make a significant impact. Additionally, we have engaged high-reach media outlets, whose output plays a crucial role in guiding end consumers’ holiday choices. We eagerly anticipate replicating our success in the Czech market later this year.”

The fam trip provided a condensed but impactful introduction to Cape Town, the Aquila Collection Big 5 safaris and the enchanting winelands, offering a comprehensive itinerary packed with numerous activities. The main accommodation sponsors were Hotel Sky Cape Town, Aquila Private Game Reserve and Spa, and Lanzerac Hotel, while a wide range of Cape Town partners and activities contributed to the success of the trip. Cany B Global Events took charge of the logistics and management of the fam trip.

Welcome dinner at Hotel Sky, Cape Town

Three memorable highlights from the fam trip included a welcome dinner in Cape Town, hosted in partnership with Cape Town Tourism at Hotel Sky. The event brought together industry professionals for a delightful dinner and dance affair, accompanied by breathtaking views of the city.

Stone Cottage at Aquila Private Game Reserve and Spa

The Stone Cottage venue at Aquila Private Game Reserve set the stage for an unforgettable night under the Karoo stars. The delegates experienced a Big 5 safari whereafter the evening concluded with a visit to the newly refurbished bush venue, offering traditional South African cuisine and captivating entertainment.

Gala dinner at Lanzerac

A final gala dinner in partnership with Wesgro took place at Lanzerac, featuring incredible entertainment and a night of networking, facilitating connections among industry professionals, while indulging in fine wine and good food.

“The Ultimate Cape Town Safari Experience” fam trip has set a benchmark for hosting and showcasing Cape Town, its wildlife sightings, and its incredible natural beauty. Aquila Collection and its partners are committed to organizing future fam trips from emerging and tactical markets, aiming to expand the basket size and source markets of travelers to Cape Town. This strategic approach will ensure valuable tourism growth for the Mother City.

Johan van Schalkwyk, Aquila Collection Group Marketing and Trade Manager concluded: “Our primary focus is to prioritise Cape Town as a premier travel destination and ensure that emerging and new markets worldwide are fully informed about the incredible opportunities it offers. Aquila Collection has made substantial investments in and around Cape Town, boasting unique and bucket list accommodation and activities. We have taken on an ambitious mission to expand our reach beyond traditional source markets and attract travelers from around the globe. This approach ensures the resilience of our businesses and Cape Town in the event of any slowdown in arrivals from key markets. By welcoming more visitors to Cape Town, our businesses will have the privilege of accommodating more guests. This is our ultimate mission and driving force.”