Seven products that appeal to the Nordic market

Source: Tourism Update, 08/07/2015

1. Escape Cycling Tours
"We have developed a niche market for the Scandinavians – cycling
tours around South Africa. We have over 50 different itineraries
covering South Africa, varying in duration from two to 21 days, all
tried and tested. Escape Cycling Tours conducts tours throughout
Southern Africa on either mountain or road bikes, for all ages. We
also do training camps for the very serious and professional riders. A
back-up vehicle with qualified cycling tourist guides are always
present, plus a bike technician."
Chris Murray, Escape Cycling Tours
2. Simbavati Safari Lodges
"Simbavati Safari Lodges in the Timbavati Private Nature Reserve
bordering the Kruger National Park, is fast gaining popularity and
market share in the Nordic market. Guests are offered a variety of
accommodation types that cater for different segments of the market,
at a rate that is perceived to be good value rather than over-the-top
expensive luxury. Both lodges at Simbavati cater exceptionally well
for this market, namely the child-friendly River Lodge, where there is
a choice of family suites with multiple bedrooms and luxury tents, and
the smaller Hilltop Lodge with only eight luxury suites that cater for
guests who demand more exclusivity, such as the honeymoon segment of
the market, for example."
Henk Graaf, MD of SW Africa Destination Management
3. Winelands, Garden Route & Safari Tour
"Springbok Atlas Tours & Safaris offers a 12-day Winelands, Garden
Route & Safari Tour covering the key destinations and areas of
interest to the Nordic market – nature and wildlife. This is combined
with four nights based in Cape Town for a balance of city and
nightlife. Also included are a wide range of adventures and activities
throughout – other key requirements for this market. The tour is
popular as it fits perfectly with the slightly longer holidays taken
by Nordic travellers, averaging between eight and 14 days, and is
mainly based on their preferred four-star grade for hotels and lodges."
Glenn McKeag, CEO Springbok Atlas Tours & Safaris
4. Three Trees at Spioenkop
"Three Trees at Spioenkop offers an authentic, sustainable and unique
experience in the foothills of the Drakensberg Mountains in KwaZulu
Natal. This is exactly what Nordic travellers are looking for,
according to recent research. Spectacular scenery, locally grown
farm-style food, exquisite linen and superb hosts make this lodge the
ideal environment in which to escape and explore. This intimate luxury
lodge is Fair Trade certified and places great emphasis on cultural
and environmental sustainability. The colonial designed lounge/dining
area with its large verandas, creates an ideal environment in which
enjoy nature. The lodge boasts a fine, award-winning South African
wine list for guests to enjoy. Activities include horse trails,
mountain hiking, birding, mountain biking and rhino tracking in the
game reserve. White-water rafting, hot-air ballooning, scenic
helicopter rides and canopy tours are available nearby. Perfect for
couples and families with young children alike, the lodge has so much
to offer."
Reservations at Three Trees at Spioenkop
5. Conrad Pezula
"Conrad Pezula is particularly suited to the Nordic market. Imagine a
place, surrounded by some of the finest golf holes in the world, an
endless expanse of blue sea and a lagoon framed against a backdrop of
majestic mountains. Imagine long, lazy days on a secluded beach, pure
indulgence in an award-winning spa, exquisite organic cuisine and
on-site hiking or horse riding. Conrad Pezula is contemporary,
luxurious and set in natural surroundings. You will know that you are
somewhere special. You know the service will be attuned to your needs
and that everything will be taken care of, because at Conrad, it`s all
about you."
Hanlie De Villiers, Sales and Marketing Manager
6. AVIVA Volunteers
"AVIVA is an established volunteering organisation based in Cape Town.
We specialise in organising placements for overseas volunteers at
recognised and well-researched wildlife and community projects within
South Africa. Our children`s projects are very popular with Nordic
students wanting to make a difference to the children in South Africa.
The number of Nordic students have increased over the years and they
have become our biggest market for volunteer tourism. The biggest
advantage, by booking directly with AVIVA Volunteers, is that they
save a vast amount of money compared with going through agents in
their own country."
Michelle Du Plessis, Applications Manager: AVIVA - Volunteering in
South Africa
7. InFynnite Destinations
"I specialise in Nordic tours, having travelled and worked in Finland,
Denmark, Norway and Sweden. I speak basic Swedish and specialise in
wine and dining tours with a strong historic, cultural and
environmental flavour. Nordic countries played a huge role in
facilitating peaceful change in SA. Emotive visits to iconic prisons
and museums are valued. Sunny summers are a wonderful antidote to
Arctic winter woes. Our cuisine is world class at highly affordable
prices. The flora and fauna that so fascinated Linneas are still a
wonder. Our wines are delicious and affordable. Anders Ohlsson, a
Swede, founded Ohlssons Breweries!"
Hugh Fynn, InFynnite Destinations