My overview of the Attractions Management 2016 conference.

I have not attended many conferences in my working career,
let alone be asked to speak at one!
But, that opportunity was afforded to me last week
and I gladly accepted the “challenge”.

Double Tree by Hilton.
Upper Eastside
The conference was held over two days
at this hotel in Woodstock, Cape Town.
Although it has been there for a while,
it is not necessarily a tourist destination,
but more of a conference venue.
It was also my accommodation for the duration of the conference.

Day 1…
Let the games begin.
Being a conference that focussed on the Attractions industry,
I thought that there would be rides etc involved.

Gifts for the participants…

A healthy breakfast was on offer for those not staying at the hotel.

I often wonder what happens to these…

I now know…
But I kept mine.

It seems that delegates were encouraged to be on social media
during the talks.
I have no idea how they can concentrate on what is being said
and TWEET at the same time.

MC for the event, Ernie Heath.
He has been involved in tourism for almost 3 decades.
His knowledge of the industry was put to the test
when he was tasked with giving a talk unexpectedly.
.

Tea time.

Day 2.
Those delegates who decided that they would like
to experience something “different” were treated to a
behind the scenes tour of the Two Oceans Aquarium

It was a great way to start the final conference day
and I certainly learned that is MUCH more to running
a facility like this than just putting fish in a tank.
They are currently busy with major alterations
which will be to the benefit of both their fish stock
as well as the experience that they offer visitors.

The Minister of Tourism, Derek Hanekom.
He delivered an interesting talk that focussed on “local”.
And he also seems to be willing to promote “small town” South Africa,

I got to chat to the owner of “Travel with Rene”,
Rene Moses.
Her company offers tours and shuttle services
for both the able bodied and wheel-chair bound.

Lunch…
Post lunch and time for me to step up on stage.
You can read what I had to say about Bloggers via this link:
http://www.davidbatzofin.com/2016/06/do-bloggers-get-recognition-they.html

And, almost before I knew it, the conference was over.

Did everyone agree on everything?
Not really.
But I do believe that we all learned a lot from each other.