RUBRIC - For many locals and visitors, the different cruise liners in our Bay were a welcome sight, even inspiring some to dream of travel upon the open blue seas.
I was fortunate enough to take my third cruise recently.
This trip was on the MSC Orchestra from Cape Town to Walvis Bay, the previous ones having been from Durban to various parts of Mozambique. My, what a memorable trip it was. The only complaint I have is that is was too short.
While on board the majestic vessel, I found myself wondering what it would be like to sail on one of the ships that stops at Mossel Bay – to see our beautiful town from a different perspective, and to be with other passengers, to tour the town through their eyes.
I mentioned in a previous column that one of my goals this year is to be a tourist in my own town. This would take that idea to the next level.
Tourism is one of the biggest income generators for our town. There are many events hosted throughout the year that draw people, whether South Africans or those from countries all over the world.
The immediate one that comes to mind for me is Ironman 70.3, which Mossel Bay is fortunate to host for three years: last year, this year and in 2024.
Another annual favourite that gets many engines revving is the Buffalo Rally. For some, it is a noisy, disruptive business, but it's only one weekend a year. I'm not a motorcycling enthusiast by any means, but I do enjoy finding a spot to watch the mass ride. It's heart-warming to see bikers of all ages, ethnicities and genders sharing their passion with others.
Soon another yearly event that promised fun for young and old alike took place: the Outdoor Expo.
Even if, like me, you're not a camper, the expo was still worth a visit. There was great entertainment on the day, along with copious amounts of fresh air and sunshine (if the weather behaves).
Lovers of the arts are also spoilt for choice, with many events taking place throughout the year, from poetry readings to concerts in our iconic maritime museum, to cabarets and vintage movies at a proper huisteater in town, to music festivals that cater for a myriad of tastes.
Without the money generated by tourism and events like those I've mentioned, the Mossel Bay Municipality wouldn't be able to do what it does for the town's residents, let alone do it as well as they do. So, next time you find yourself wanting to complain about our hometown being as busy as it often is, remember that tourism is a large percentage of our lifeblood.
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