South Africa Prepares for Arrival of Gay Honeymooners
CAPETOWN, South Africa, November 30, 2005. South African Tourism today announced its bid to target the thousands of same-sex couples preparing for the honeymoon of their dreams in 2006.
Hot of the heels of the Civil Partnership Bill becoming law on Monday - leading holiday destinations across the world are preparing for an explosion of gay honeymooners as upwards of 22,000 same-sex couples in the UK prepare to take up the Bill by 2010*.
South Africa's vibrant capital Cape Town has long been one of the leading holiday destinations for gay couples on holiday and hopes the impending upsurge in the gay honeymooning market will spell success for bookings next year.
South African Tourism's new Country Manager for the UK, Lebohang Mokhesi comments: "Cape Town has long been one of the hottest spots for the gay visitor - our stunning beaches, great hospitality, and a buzzing social scene with some of the world's best dressed and well-heeled make this a top destination for gay honeymooners."
Mokhesi continues: "The implementation of the Civil Partnership Bill will open an entire market for us and allow us to offer same-sex honeymooners a fun-filled and unforgettable romantic break."
Specialist tour operators Man Around Group has recently undertaken an extensive survey into the most desirable destinations for gay couples and Cape Town is predicted to fair particularly well. The Group also notes that The Civil Partnership Bill has seen an upsurge in honeymoon packages to South Africa.
Gabriele Neroni, Chairman of Man Around Group, comments: "The Civil Partnership Bill will make it more acceptable to travel as a couple rather than two individuals giving more confidence to our clients when booking holidays."
Neroni continues: "South Africa is a welcoming and friendly destination and we have seen significant interest in honeymoon packages, particularly Cape Town and the Western Cape and Safari in the Kruger National Park and Sabi Sands."
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