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More South African establishments are opening their doors to TGCSA assessors in their commitment to offer visitors exceptional quality products. As the country’s only recognised and globally benchmarked grading system of quality assurance for accommodation, venues and conferencing facilities, TGCSA has officially welcomed 64 new members in June that have heeded the call to pursue excellence in their businesses.
“Our new members fall under a diverse number of categories including Bed & Breakfasts, Lodges, Hotels, Guest Houses and Self-Catering establishments,” explains Darryl Erasmus, TGCSA Chief Quality Assurance Officer. “It’s imperative that we meet the targets outlined in the National Tourism Department’s transformation programme to increase the number of graded establishments situated in previously disadvantaged areas, while still recognising iconic brands in the hospitality industry.”
Lehae Guesthouse embodies what we call a hidden gem, tucked deep in the heart of Sandton, this 3 star guesthouse offers, over and above accommodation, Airport Transfers /Transportation, Tour guide, catering, Event Management and live band entertainment. Lehae which means ‘home’ in Sotho is a warm and friendly guesthouse which invites guests to come and experience a home away from home experience.
Situated in the Woodland Hills Wildlife Estate in Bloemfontein, The Royal Fischer Hotel is nestled at the heart of a nature, wildlife and heritage rich town. Named after anti-apartheid activist, Bram Fischer, the 5 star hotel offers luxurious dining experiences, in suite spa services and is a weddings and corporate functions venue.
The luxurious Silo Hotel, distinguished by its timeless glamour, is now a 5 star TGCSA graded establishment. This Cape Town establishment at the Waterfront is part of the Royal Portfolio Hotel Group and was named in the Conde Naste Traveller 2017 Hot List. Ross Bowers, the hotel’s Marketing & Communications Manager explains, “The management team of the Silo Hotel were motivated to be graded as we believe that it would be useful for our local and international guests to know that we are members of a credible grading system. It is important for our consumers to know they can trust our product.” Ross also believes that being graded will translate into substantial business growth. “We are now interested in finding out more about other business benefits that come with the TGCSA membership such as the Basket of Benefits and the opportunity to enter our business into the prestigious annual Lilizela Tourism Awards.”
Through a vigorous process, the TGCSA appointed assessors travel countrywide to ensure that establishments who voluntarily wish to be graded are heard. “As a new establishment, we believe being graded will boost our image in lodge accommodation available in Bloemfontein,” says Ithuteng Matobakele, Administrative Manager of Monate Nate Oa Phokeng, who describes his lodge as affordable and child-friendly. “TGCSA assessors have reassured us that we are a value for money destination that is able to meet and exceed our customers’ expectations. This is truly encouraging. Previously, our visitors would marvel at our gardens with a sparkling pool and lapa area but, business remained slow. Now that we are graded, we know that when travellers see our TGCSA stars they will know that our establishment offers customers the quality they expect.”
Grading is an extremely important component in the growth and sustainability of South Africa’s tourism industry. “We call upon establishments across the country to join the quality assurance movement and take full advantage of the benefits of being graded,” concludes Darryl Erasmus.