CEO - NELSON MANDELA BAY TOURISM FESTIVE SEASON MESSAGE

Nelson Mandela Bay during summer has a definite buzz during the festive season each year. This is a time where you can feel the energy and the summer vibe in the air. This festive season we implore locals and tourists to enjoy all the fun attractions and activities available on our shores in a safe and responsible manner.

Nelson Mandela Bay Tourism is preparing to ensure that all local citizens and tourists to the city have a great experience during the festive season. This includes having on offer special packages through the Nelson Mandela Bay Pass as well as a comprehensive events calendar which keeps all informed about what is happening in and around the destination.

Despite tough economic times we encourage all to see what is out there to enjoy. There are many value for money activities and events to participate in such as the cities Summer Season programme on offer by the city which includes the Opening of the Season Musical Festival on the 16th December, Phola Festival on the 18th December and a variety of New years eve parties to name a few of the activations.

Nelson Mandela Bay will have a feast of festive experiences which also include 3rd Annual Ebubeleni Festival, news year’s eve celebrations at Uitenhage Market Square, Hobie Beach, and Wells’ Estate followed by a Jazz picnic at the Donkin on the 2nd January. Throughout these events crowds can look forward to performances from national and local artists.

Coming up soon on the sporting front is the IRB Rugby Sevens from the 13 – 14th December as the South Africa vs. West Indies Boxing Day Cricket Test which starts on the 26 December and Chippa United vs. Black Aces on the 5 December. There definitely is a feast of sporting activities on the cards.

For the IRB Rugby 7’s Nelson Mandela Bay Tourism has created a package which makes the event, the destination as well as activities accessible for all budgets. Through purchasing a Nelson Mandela Bay Rugby 7’s Pass you can build a package that suits your pocket including the accommodation, ticket to the games as well as activities in and around the city.

Nelson Mandela Bay has the ideal climate which is moderate throughout the year and perfect for a summer season holiday destination. Along with the ideal weather Nelson Mandela Bay has great beaches and beachfront facilities to utilise. These include Blue flag status beaches.  In addition the rejuvenated King’s Beach lake area, play ground and fitness equipment could keep many entertained alongside the swimming baths and water world facilities.

What makes Nelson Mandela Bay so attractive to many visitors is the proximity of attractions and facilities to each other. One is able to fit multiple activities such as beach and shopping in one day as the beaches are situated within 15 minutes of a shopping center. Should one wish to visit a game park and be back in town for cocktails and dinner that is also possible as we have game parks on our cities doorstep.

Local Citizens of the friendly city also make the destination what it is and therefore we are proud of the warm welcome and experience shared with locals annually. People return to Nelson Mandela Bay as this is the City of Freedom where one is able to celebrate anywhere and with anyone without being harassed. This is especially important as we near the end of the 20 years of Freedom Celebration.

Safety and Security measures have been implemented to keep all citizens and visitor’s as safe as possible. Tourism has joined forces with the municipality as well as the South African Police Force as well as Traffic and security will not tolerate drinking and driving and have increased patrols in high activity areas. Nelson Mandela Bay Tourism wishes all a great festive season in a responsible manner. Life guards, NSRI and all emergency services are on high alert and ready to see to any unforeseen circumstances should they occur.

Apart from Nelson Mandela Bays beautiful beaches and parks there are countless attractions to enjoy. These range from walking Route 67 with the family, climbing the lighthouse at the Donkin or strolling through Happy Valley. Other family fun activities in the Bay including visiting touch farms, going on game drives, paintballing sand boarding, horse riding on the beach and fling down one of the longest double zip lines to name but a few of the countless activities.

There is so much to do and experience in Nelson Mandela Bay and I recommend visiting the web-site and utilising the Nelson Mandela Bay Pass to plan a provisional itinerary or list activities to do in your own time and according to your own budget.  To plan which events you would like to participate in visit the events calendar on www.nmbt.co.za. For a list of attractions and activities do with free and discounted entry utilising the Nelson Mandela Bay Pass visit www.nelson mandleabaypass.co.za

Nelson Mandela Bay the City of Freedom is all about choice. Your choice for an adrenalin fun filled festive season or a blissful summer season of beaches with miles of golden sand and cocktails under the summer skies. The city and surrounds come to life with countless events, vibrant energy and not-to-be-missed attractions to keep you and your family entertained.