Five-star luxury hotels in upmarket urban areas are proving to be popular with international guests visiting for the 2010 FIFA World Cup, with many either fully booked or rapidly approaching capacity for the duration of the four-week soccer tournament, says David Solomon, chairman of Solomon Brothers Property Holdings, the developer of the Pepper Club hotel.
The yet-to-be-opened R400 million five star luxury hotel and spa in Pepper Street, Cape Town has recorded almost 95% pre-bookings for the tournament period.
“This is in contrast to reports from owners of local guest houses, private homes and backpacker hostels, who say the expected rush for 2010 World Cup accommodation has not materialised, with some fearing rooms will stand empty during the tournament,” says Solomon.
“However, owners of these establishments should not be overly-concerned with the current status of their bookings, as they stand to benefit from the significant overflow once hotels reach their booking capacities for the tournament. As long as rates are competitive, smaller players will benefit increasingly as the tournament draws nearer.”
He says hotels in South Africa’s urban areas close to stadiums and amenities like shopping centres, tourist attractions and nightlife are best placed to attract most of the foreign visitors.
“The feedback we have received from customers is that one of their main priorities is to be as near as possible to the action. It seems proximity to host cities and stadiums is a significant, and in many cases crucial requirement for foreign guests.”
He says although the local tourism sector’s overall aim is to offer visitors a truly African experience, providers should not lose sight of the fact that many visitors still expect first-world amenities.
“When compared with other accommodation offerings, South Africa’s luxury still offer a combination of a secure environment, proximity and direct access to top attractions, as well as top-class facilities that many well-travelled visitors have come to expect,” says Solomon.
