Jovago Explores the Impact of Technology on Travel and Tourism in Africa at the 39th Africa Travel and Tourism Association Annual World Congress
Stats on Travel and Tourism in Africa
Number of tourist arrivals forecasted to 1.8 Billion for 2030
51% of travelers search, and book flights and accommodations online
Up-take comes from the realization that travelers are more tech-savvy
More and more product/service suppliers incorporate technology in their marketing strategies
Digital Marketing, Search Engine Marketing and Pricing seen as major factors in selling hotels/destinations
Having kicked off this morning, the 39th Africa Travel and Tourism Associations (ATA) annual world congress, is expected to address both current and futuristic issues seen to be hampering or strengthening the industry. Recognized as the Voice of African Tourism, Pan-Africa’s largest network of tourism and related products brings 22 African Member States together to join other member countries across the globe.
Africa’s largest online hotel booking platform Jovago.com is looking forward to modernize the tourism industry in Africa. The online hotel portal is actively involved in bolstering global marketing and online accessibility of hotels across Africa.
The online company currently operates in 20 African companies, and has listed more than 10,000 African hotels on its portal within the first year of operation. With the main focus on Africa, MD Estelle Verdier declares that the technology uptake in medium rated hotels is improving.
Going by UNWTO’s projected 4%-6% growth in tourist arrivals, and an expected 1.8 billion worldwide tourist arrivals by 2030, Estelle notes that industry players must be proactive in marketing their products and services to the world:
“With 51% of bookings taking place online, hotels must stimulate the interest of potential guests by going where they are likely to be found: online. Investing in the right technology tools and well-trained workforce is key” Jovago, offers partner hotels optimum online visibility through the website as well as SEO Marketing. “The point is to meet and manage a customer’s expectations-and make them need to board or explore with you.”
Estelle will be addressing the global congress on the Challenges & Opportunities for OTAs (Online Travel Agents) in Africa as well as Impact of Technology on Tourism in Africa during the one week convention. With both transient and group business travel on the rise, she notes that customers are quick to pick on (hotel) brands which are both convenient in accessibility and with a well-structured, personalized customer service.
This new trend in the tourism industry has a strong niche in regional conferencing, regional conventions and town meetings that require booking for accommodation. ‘It’s interesting to note that most business travelers are most likely to squeeze in some sight-seeing time in between” She concluded.
Among other issues to be discussed include the effects of Ebola on West African Tourism, spotlight on romance and faith-based travel in Africa as well as global tourism trends and outlook.
About Jovago
Jovago.com is an online hotel booking service headquartered in Lagos, Nigeria, founded by Africa Internet Holding and has MTN as one of the investors. Jovago.com, Africa’s No.1 booking portal, facilitates the booking process for its users to provide them with the best hotel booking experience with fast, transparent and easy-to-use services. Jovago.com has over 20,000 local hotel listings across Africa and over 200,000 hotels around the world.
You can follow Jovago on Twitter handle: @JovagoTravel or like their Facebook Page Jovago.
About Africa Internet Group
Africa Internet Group introduces and accelerates the online shift in Africa – for its people and its culture. It is committed to running successful and vibrant internet companies which boost the evolution of African online culture. AIG is the parent group of nine successful and fast-growing companies in more than 25 African countries, accounting for over 3000 staff.
AIG cares about entrepreneurship and brings together all the key elements required to build great companies: team, concept, technology and capital. Its network of companies includes JUMIA, Kaymu, Hellofood, Lamudi, Carmudi, Zando, Jovago, Lendico and Easy Taxi.