MOSSEL BAY NEWS - Several representatives of Mossel Bay's local businesses gathered at the Mossel Bay Tourism Information Centre in Market Street on Tuesday evening, 15 September, for the Mossel Bay Business Chamber's monthly networking evening.
Aligning with September as Tourism Month, it was only fitting that the evening focused on the business of tourism.
The guests heard from Mario Febbraio, an entrepreneur and one of Mossel Bay Tourism's directors.
He shared some insights into the significance of tourism in Mossel Bay as an injection into our local economy, supporting local businesses, their staff and their families, and the importance of ensuring visitors return to our town.
He touched on Mossel Bay's various attractions, including the upcoming Ironman challenge and cruise season.
The Mossel Bay Tourism Team: Olivia Olivier, Lieshke Steven-Jennings, Mario Febbraio, Karin Julies, Michelle Snyders, Dulin Sinkfontein and Jessica van der Schyff. Photo: Gabriélla Siebritz
In 2024, said Febbraio, Mossel Bay received 21 cruise liners carrying more than 30 000 tourists, who spent a few days and nights in town, eating, shopping and experiencing all that Mossel Bay has to offer.
"They take an impression of Mossel Bay back home with them. Every satisfied visitor is an ambassador of Mossel Bay," said Febbraio.
He also mentioned a Mossel Bay resident, Lacey Williams, who recently went viral during last week's rugby game between the Springboks and the All Blacks in the US. Williams was photographed in the stands, holding a sign giving Mossel Bay a shout-out from overseas.
"That is free tourism," said Febbraio. "It invites people to come and see what Mossel Bay is about."
A telephone and video booth as well as a lucky draw were also part of the evening's fun.
The guests could pick up a telephone handset and record a message about Mossel Bay's tourism. While they were speaking, the booth also recorded a video of them leaving a message.
The evening concluded with a meal at the Market Café, next door to Mossel Bay Tourism.
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