Like wine, the Getaway Show gets better with time!
The 23rd installation of the annual event blew people’s minds away and left them yearning for more. From an inaugural (exciting) pimp-your-bakkie-for-travel competition to spectacular game reserve attractions, the Getaway Show (sponsored by Dunlop, Getaway Travel and Airlink) had visitors smiling from ear to ear with sheer exuberance written all over their faces.
Held at The Ticketpro Dome in Northgate from 4-6 October 2019, the venue was packed to capacity with more than 100 exhibitors strutting their stuff including affordable travel packages, destinations, accommodation, outdoor gear, 4×4 products and accessories, motor homes, caravans, camping equipment and adventure operators. The event is a brand extension of the illustrious travel and tourism magazine, The Getaway.
The show has been giving travellers a taste of adventure, fun and experience in a lively atmosphere for the past 23 years. The event’s organiser and operations manager, Nasreen Abrahams said despite some challenges, the show ran smoothly this year.
One of the main attractions was an exhilarating competition in which visitors battled it out for a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to have their car fitted with the modern top-of-the-range travel accessories. The extreme makeover, almost akin to the Pimp My Ride show, was to the tune of whopping R177 000.
The event also featured travel talks awareness, travel bag packing tips, showcasing game reserves as well as Indonesian cultural expeditions. “The event has improved in terms of activations and marketing. We’re planning on getting the youth into the show next year for contiki student tours. This is a big project that will be finalised for the upcoming show,” said Abrahams.
Among exhibitors was KwaZulu-Natal (KZN) Tourism, taking visitors and attendees on a breathtaking experience of bungee jumping through a 3D simulation! The simulation exercise also extended to riding the “waves” on the surfing board and cycling on some beautiful KZN mountain. “The experience was amazing! It felt like I was bungee jumping for real. I could feel them pulling me up by the rope after I was done,” remarked one of the visitors.
There was also a wide range of travel opportunities and ideas for everyone… from families to adventurers and aspirant globetrotters. For those seeking to travel the world, travel agencies were on hand to offer them advice and tips. Caravan and camping equipment was there for those who love to relax or have fun in nature. The show was also characterised by live music, fun family activities and a beer tent for folks who sought to quench their thirst.
One of the sponsors said they would definitely be coming back next year, and that their association with the show would remain intact for years to come. “From last year, we saw an opportunity to do sales – sell some tryes, activate an engagement to capture consumer details to build a database and ensure more brand awareness,” said Shailesh Signh, Dunlop’s Trade Marketing and Motorsports Manager. Alex Smith of Eco4x4Africa has been exhibiting at the vent for the past 10 years. “People only trust you when they see you and experience what you tell them,” said Smith.
The 2020 Getaway Show promises to be even bigger and better. Guess what? The next year’s show will feature new out-of-this-world attractions for the youth! Watch the space for more information.
